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MHA-FF-Full

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Chapter 1:\nI'm hungry...\nEveryone hungers for something. Fame, money, love, food. Me right now though, I'm hungry for a delicious snack of a man tonight and I am ravenous.\nThis is taking too long.\nIt's got to be something like 10 o clock. If I don't find someone soon I'm gonna have to call it a night and just go home.\nI sit at the bar and tap my nails on the empty glass in front of me. I've been here for two hours already and there have been no prospects.\nDoing a visual sweep of the room, nothing has changed. Some businessmen sit at a table drinking and having a good time of it. A few scattered couples take up some small tables here and there and the one other guy at the bar has already tried to shoot his shot with me but just looking at him told me that he wasn't my taste.\n"Another Mai Tai?" the bartender asks and I consider it for a moment. Another drink means I'll commit to probably another 20 minutes sitting here, trolling the waters for someone to catch my eye and right now that just seems so unlikely.\n"No thanks," I sigh, leaving my empty glass on the bar and sliding off the barstool, pulling my short black dress down to cover my thighs a bit more and get the slit cut in the back to stop bunching up under my tail.\nI should just give up for now. I'm not desperate for crying out loud, just... frustrated.\nI haven't tried this bar before, but I thought a new hunting ground might be perfect to get me out of this rut I've been in the last few weeks.\nAll of the men I've taken to bed lately have all seemed like they might satisfy me but they've all been disappointments. Every single one of them ending up being rather bland.\nNow this place is a bust too.\nShouldering the strap on my purse, I throw a tip on the bar and head out the door into the warm summer evening.\nI give another disgruntled sigh as I make my way down the sidewalk, heels clicking on the pavement as I go.\nI have a job scheduled for tomorrow and a few more for the next few days. Meaning I'll have to take a train to Tokyo in the morning. Tonight was my last chance for the next four days to sate my craving and not a single guy has even remotely interested me. Ugh.\nA lot of eyes, of all genders, turn my way as I head back toward my apartment.\nIt could be due to my small dark purple bat wings and slim tail of the same color peeking out from the back of my dress and ending in a neat spade shape, but odd body features are rather common in this quirk laden society.\nIt could be the fact that I put on makeup today, enhancing my already high cheekbones and amethyst eyes. But it's most likely the fact that I tower over most of them, being 5'11" to begin with and sporting four inch heels on top of that. I like these shoes, though. They're my man-hunting shoes. I'm not gonna stop wearing my favorite shoes just because it makes people stare at me. My height is what netted me my sweet modeling job after all.\nSuddenly, a clammy hand grabs at mine and roughly pulls me into a smaller, far less populated alleyway, making me stumble as it nearly drags me a few feet in.\nI viciously snatch my hand away and glare at the offending party. A businessman. One of the men from the bar, possibly? He reeks of alcohol and I've already got a discomforting feeling about him.\nIt's too bad he decided to make the mistake of trying my patience today. I hadn't noticed him before but he could've been to my taste.\nHe's taller than me, although with these shoes on, he just meets my height. He's thicker than me, a decent layer of muscle under that business suit. He must work out. And he's definitely strong with the way he clamped down on my hand and dragged me over here.\nThose are my three criteria that are most likely to suit my tastes.\nUsually the thicker part isn't an issue. I'm not muscular. Most men would end up meeting that criteria easily. Same with being stronger. I'm not a fighter. I work out to keep my figure as tight as possible, but nothing past that. I mean, that's what heroes are for, right? To keep us safe and fight for us?\nTaller than me, though. That's the tricky part. I don't hate men shorter than me or anything and I've given some a go even, but a lot of them get inferiority complexes for being shorter and the bigger men just have something extra I can't quite put my finger on.\nI have a small taste for women sometimes too but... that's even more complicated.\nThis guy touched me without my permission, though. And not only that, he dragged me over here? Is he out of his mind? He could be with all that alcohol wafting off of him.\n"Can I help you?" I ask, disgust curling my lip.\n"I noticed you sitting alone at the bar,"- so he is from the bar- "and you looked like you were waiting for someone who never showed up so I figured I could come and see if you needed any company."\nHis voice has this low, rough quality to it. Does he think he sounds seductive?\nI give him an appraising look, making it obvious that I find him lacking and say, "Thanks but no thanks." Which is probably one of the nicer things I could've said, in my opinion.\nI turn to leave back the way we came- are there fewer pedestrians out there than there were a moment ago?- but then I feel that firm clammy hand wrap around my tail and I whip my head around to see him right behind me, my dark purple tail clenched in his fist, his face a mask of rage.\n"You could at least not be a bitch about it," he seethes through gritted teeth and fear begins to seep through my veins before I tamp it down. I can handle this.\nHe tugs on it roughly, making me stumble back a pace, my small wings flaring, flapping slightly to rebalance myself.\nThis bastard! Who the hell does he think he is?\nI slowly reach my hand into my purse at my side, digging around.\nSometimes men think that my rejecting them gives them a right to manhandle me, as if that's going to somehow change my mind.\nI know that random hookups can be dangerous. As I've said before I'm not strong, but I do need to defend myself should the need arise. Which is why I have- Ah! There it is!\nMy fingers wrap around the zap stick (as I like to call it) I always carry with me. It's like a taser, but it extends for better reach, so I don't have to be within grabbing distance in order to use it on someone.\nI bought it for situations just like these.\n"Now get the fuck back here," he snarls.\nWith my silence and stillness he must think he's cowed me.\nHe issues another vicious tug on my tail and I pretend to stumble again. In reality, he's not gonna surprise me like that twice. As my right foot moves back and hits the ground, leaving some slack on my tail for movement, I spin on it, my wings flapping to assist in what puny way they can, and I swing my arm around, extending the zap stick.\nHe hasn't seen it until it's too late and it's already punching him in the chest, charging him with enough volts to stun a baby elephant.\nHe makes a whimpering sound as I hold the button down, immediately releasing my tail, and I whip it back behind me, flicking it in irritation.\nWhen I let the button go, he collapses to the floor, curling up in a ball and I stare down at him unsympathetically.\n"You're disgusting," I tell him, adrenaline still pumping through my veins. A part of me wants to kick him or something while he's down there. No one touches me without my permission\n"Are you okay?" a concerned sounding masculine voice comes from behind me.\nSeriously? Another one?\nI whip around, my zap stick still extended, raised at the ready to deal some more pain, but I stop short, sucking in a shocked breath.\nThe man I'm facing now is tall. Like really tall. Possibly as tall as All Might even (A mountain I've wished I could climb for a while now). I don't know if I've seen anyone without a gigantification quirk- or similar- who was taller.\nHe has his gloved hands raised up, palms out, in a placating gesture, as if he were dealing with a wild animal.\n"Sorry! Sorry to surprise you!" he says quickly, taking a step back.\nI just stare back at him, my mouth agape.\nI can already tell he means me no harm. His flashy outfit, although torn down the front, revealing his- phew, WOW- absolutely stellar muscled torso, indicates that he's a hero.\nHis short, curly blonde hair is a mess all over his head and his bright golden eyes behind his black mask reflect the concern that sounded in his voice.\nI hastily retract the stick with a soft snick and lower it, retraining my face into a more assured, calmed expression.\n"I'm fine," I say, my voice cracking from how parched my mouth has suddenly become.\nThe man looks more relaxed now, seeing that I no longer intend to attack him, and breathes a sigh of relief.\n"Oh good. I was just about to step in. He was getting pretty rough with you," he glances at my tail briefly and it curls under his gaze as if it has a mind of its own and likes the attention. Thanks for telling on me, tail...\n"No, I had it handled," I assure him, finding my voice again, "It's why I always carry this." I spin the shortened stick in my hand before I place it back in my purse.\n"That's why you always carry that?" he asks, like he didn't understand the statement, "Does that happen often?" he motions toward the man still splayed out in the alleyway.\n"It happens sometimes," I reply with a shrug. When you look the way I look, dress the way I dress sometimes, and do the things I do, of course you're gonna attract negative attention that you have to fight off sometimes. That's a bullshit fact of my lifestyle. I'm not gonna tell him that, though.\nThe last thing I need is a hero- and a really delicious looking one at that- lecturing me on how "I'm asking for it." Would this guy actually say that to me, though? I don't know. I'd rather not even risk it.\n"We should have him arrested," the large man says, his brows turning down in distaste, "he assaulted you."\nI could do that. After all, I have a hero as my witness. He could possibly face jail time. But another part of me says it's not worth it. I have to get home and go to sleep for work tomorrow, not spend hours filling out police paperwork and going over the story again and again just to have this guy- what- fined? Given community service most likely?\n"I don't want to deal with the police," I tell him and the groove between his brows grows deeper, "but I do know what we should do with him."\nA few moments later, the businessman's buddies from the bar are all in the alley and picking him up, looking at him with expressions ranging from disapproval to disgust. His work life just got a whole lot worse, it seems.\n"I can't express how sorry I am for my colleague's behavior," one of them says, bowing deeply to me.\nI nod in thanks but the tall, appetizing man next to me speaks up.\n"Your buddy's lucky he didn't get arrested. Make sure he knows it and that if he tries it again, he'll be going to jail," he says seriously, his golden eyes glinting a warning.\nThe bowing man bows deeper still, "Yes, sir. We will sir. Thank you, sir."\nAnd, without further words, the group of men set off.\nI turn to my tasty-looking hero when they're out of sight and offer a small smile, "Thank you. For at least attempting to help me."\nHe gives me a wide, unreserved grin that lights up his whole face in return, his golden eyes crinkling under his mask, "Not a problem, miss."\nMy heart gives a small pulse upon witnessing that face, my wings fluttering slightly in response. Miss? How is this giant of a man so adorable?\n"Would you like me to escort you home?" he offers, his hand outstretched, less an offer for me to take and more to emphasize that he's offering his services to me, "I would definitely feel better if you let me."\nI make a show of considering his offer. Like I'm gonna say no? I just struck out sitting at a bar for two hours and the holy grail of all tasty man-snacks approaches me, looking all battle torn. I'm gonna jump on that opportunity like a kitten in a milk factory.\nHe's tall, he's strong, and he is thick enough to make a girl's mouth water. Not to mention the fact that he's clearly a total sweetheart. Fucking yikes, I might be in trouble with this one.\n"Okay," I finally answer, trying to ignore the way my tail curls in delight when his smile returns, "I live in that high rise over about 10 blocks away." I point toward a tall building in the distance, not easy to miss. It's one of the tallest in the area.\n"Let's get going then," he says with no hesitation, turning and heading in the direction I indicated.\nI catch up to him and do my best to match his strides. This has to be the first time I've ever had to walk quickly to keep up with the person next to me.\nOn the way, we pass by a takoyaki stand and he stops for a second, his stomach grumbling loudly.\n"I... am starving..." he says with a bashful smile, a light blush spreading across his cheeks, "I just finished with a mission and it's been a rough day. Do you mind if I grab something to eat on the way?"\nHe jabs his thumb toward the stand and I shrug, "Sure."\n"Do you want anything?" he asks, his eyebrows lifting in offer.\n"No," I shake my head, "I'm fine." I'm not really allowed to eat food after 8pm anyway... Model bullshit.\nHe steps up to the stand and when he turns away again a few minutes later, he's holding a large box of takoyaki, sauce poured generously on top with all the fixings. Is he planning on eating all of those by himself?\nOne is already missing and I can see the stick they usually provide to eat with protruding from his mouth. I guess he was hungry...\nHe seems pleased and more energetic now that he's wolfing down these little batter balls like they're M&Ms.\nWe walk in relative silence for a couple blocks, sounds of my heels clacking on the concrete mixing with the heavy thudding of his footfalls and the little munching sounds he's making while eating what is likely his dinner.\nSo I had been right, he does intend to eat that whole box. And he's already a quarter way through as I glance over at it feeling mildly puzzled at how he maintains that body with eating habits such as this. Well, he is a hero after all. He probably burns it all off in training or combat. Who knows?\nHe sees me eyeing the box and holds out the stick with one of the little balls on it. It looks so small in his huge fingers, like they'd handed him something sized for children.\n"You sure you don't want some?" he asks.\nI shake my head, wings fluttering again at how kind and considerate he is.\nThey need to cut it out.\n"I'm alright," I say, "I've already eaten."\nWhich is partially true, I ate dinner before I left. But I am hungry. Just not for food.\nHe withdraws the proffered ball and pops that in his mouth too, the munching sounds returning as he goes to stab another.\n"So you just finished with a mission?" I ask interestedly, "I guess it was pretty grueling for you to end up like that."\nI motion toward his shredded jacket and dirty, disheveled pants.\nHe looks down at himself as if he's somehow forgotten he looks like he's gotten in a fight with a lawnmower.\nA chuckle, authentic and carefree, comes from him, "Yeah, it was. I had to use one of my ultimate abilities which is why I look like this."\nHe also motions at himself.\nI don't want to hear more about this mission or ultimate ability, though. My questions were actually leading to this next one.\n"So since you're saying you just finished, does that mean you're off the clock?" I ask, finally getting to the crux of this line of questioning.\nHe thinks for a moment, his brow furrowing, as though this is actually a hard question...\n"I guess you could say that," he finally responds, that candid smile reaching his lips again, "but I don't mind helping you if you need it. A hero's never really off the clock."\nSo essentially the answer is yes. Perfect.\nMy feet have been feeling pretty uncomfortable for a while, walking from my apartment, then dealing with that asshat back there and having to go back and forth to the bar again. We have to have travelled five blocks at least by now and my feet are not having it. Now I'm regretting the shoes.\nI have to stop in my tracks, I can't take another step. My feet are killing me.\n"Hang on," I say, wincing as I lift my foot up to undo the buckle and remove my shoe, then do the same for the other.\nBoth of my feet have blisters at my heels and toes. Annoying...\n"You okay?" he asks with concern, looking down at my blistered feet, "I was wondering how you were walking in those. Do you need help? I can carry you on my back if you need. I wish I could do more but my quirk is kinda low on fuel if you know what I mean."\nThis. Gigantic. Beautiful. Teddy bear... He looks so beat up and he still offers to carry me?\nBe still, my beating heart! And shut up, wings, I can feel you fluttering back there!\nYeah, I'm gonna get in this guy's pants if it's the last thing I do.\n"Are you sure?" I wonder tentatively. He does look pretty rough. And he's holding a box of takoyaki. Which, upon closer inspection is over halfway empty now. Geez, this guy can eat.\n"Yeah," he answers with that same adorable smile, "The takoyaki got me some of my energy back at least. But you have to do me a favor."\nHe holds out the box.\n"I need you to hold this for me while I walk."\nI nod in agreement and shove my clunky shoes in my purse, then straighten up to grab the box.\nHe squats down a little bit so I can climb on his back, then grabs onto my legs to keep me steady as he stands again.\nLeaning forward, I pressing my chest into his back so I'm also holding the box at the front of his body now, practically in front of his face.\nWow, this is really amazing! I haven't gotten a piggy back ride since I was a child! Guys, even those taller than me, don't usually end up being able to give me something like a piggy back ride. Now, look at me! I feel like a teenager in one of those romance anime whose crush is carrying them home with an injured foot.\nMy face feels hot and everything. And is my heart beating faster?\n"Do you want me to keep feeding you?" I ask, half-joking, but also willing to do so since he's being this generous with me.\nHe laughs! Rich and hearty, full of genuine delight. I can't help but smile too and my wings go fluttering again.\n"No," he finally replies after calming down enough, "I think I can make it the rest of the way. We're almost there."\nHe nods to the large building rising up in front of us. Only about two blocks away now. It feels like we got here so fast. Too fast. Damn his long strides... But on second thought, those long legs are heaven-sent. I'll forgive them.\nI nestle down into him for as long as the rest of this walk is going to last, resting my head on his shoulder.\nHe smells... kinda sweaty actually, which is understandable. But underneath that is something else. Something that tickles my nose and makes my naked toes curl.\nI want to move closer to his skin, inhale his scent deeply, preferably get a taste of whatever that delicious aroma is emanating from him, but that would be a little too familiar. Besides, I'll probably get the chance at that later if I play my cards right. And I usually play my cards right.\nAll too soon we arrive at my building, garnering stares from the door man and the few people we pass by in the lobby. I'll assume it's the height thing again but it may also be our precarious positioning. My tasty hero doesn't seem to be bothered by it, though, thankfully.\nHe sets me down at the elevators after hitting the button to call one and I think for a second he might turn back, which would ruin all of my plans- though I wouldn't be above asking him now to come up- but he steps onto the elevator with me when the doors slide open.\nSo he truly means to deliver me to my door... I would say "that's a hero for you" but it's really not. Heroes can be self-important and dickish sometimes. I think a lot of them care more about their next villain bust or their air time than actually helping civilians. But not him...\nI punch the button for my floor- the 32nd. Not too bad of a view from up there- and we start to rise.\nI realize I'm still holding onto his takoyaki box as the floor numbers ascend and hand it back to him\n"Thanks," he says brightly before digging back into his meal. Are men eating supposed to be this endearing?\nI take another good look at him now, in the stark bright light of the elevator and am still not disappointed. Although, he does seem like a hot mess with his hair looking like he's been through a wind tunnel and every single piece of clothing has some amount of damage, his jacket worst of all.\nBruises and scratches litter his torso I see now and it's a little shocking. He must've been in a real fight. Why did he feel compelled to walk me home in this state? And carrying me on his back no less?\nHe sees me eyeing him and I must have a horrified look on my face because he grins at me again and says, "Don't worry, the other guy looks worse."\nPfft. Cheesy. But also probably true.\nI quirk my lips up in response. He acts like he's perfectly fine. He has to have enough energy, right?\nBy the time we reach my floor, he's finished the rest of the box and stuffs it in a trash receptacle just outside the elevator when we exit.\nMy apartment is at the far end of the hall, unfortunately, but there's no helping it. I begin tiptoeing my way down, wincing slightly when I find out that the ball of my foot is incredibly sore. I hope this is better by morning or I'm going to be in a world of hurt for my appointment tomorrow.\n"I hope this is okay," he speaks warmly into my ear from behind before sweeping me up in his arms, carrying me forward like I'm a princess.\nMy face burns hot and I don't think I've ever felt so school-girl-ish in my life. I thought the piggy back ride was swoon-inducing...\n"I-its fine," I stutter, having to concentrate all of my willpower to keep my wings- which his arm is resting under- from outright flapping as though they would carry me off into lala land. What has gotten into me?\nHe's truly so massive, I almost seem like a child in his arms. I doubt it's even an effort for him to do this.\nOh, I'm definitely in trouble here. I was just looking to sate my hunger and now here I am with a budding crush on this beautiful man whose name I don't even know yet. I want to know it, though.\nBut I know maybe I shouldn't learn it. One night is usually for the best. I've tried hooking up with the same person more than once... It didn't end well.\n"Thank you for carrying me all this way," I say shyly because something is clearly wrong with me.\n"It's no problem, miss," he tells me for the second time tonight, "I'm happy to help."\nI need to pull myself together. I'm supposed to be the one making him blush.\nSo I swallow my pounding heart and this warm feeling pulsing in my chest so I can have the courage to look up at him.\nThose shimmering golden irises are already on me, silently watching my every move, a charmed smile playing at his lips. And now I need to stomp my nerves down so I can find the words to speak to him again.\n"Even if you're off the clock?" I inquire, an unnecessary amount of hopefulness in my voice.\n"Well, as I said before, a hero is never really off the clock," he answers looking as though he were trying to reassure me.\nBut that wasn't at all the answer I was looking for.\nMy lips turn down in a disappointed pout as I continue to gaze up into those enchantingly honest eyes.\n"I was... kinda hoping you were," I murmur quietly, finally seizing this opportunity to place my palm on his broad, powerful chest.\nHis smile slips and I can actually feel his heartbeat pick up under my fingertips. I see his eyes widen slightly, pupils dilating as he begins to get the whole picture.\nHis skin under my hand feels hot and it's like there are a hundred times as many nerves reacting to him than I usually feel. It's exhilarating.\nThings get eerily quiet between us and I'm not quite sure how to take it. I can't deny that my own heart pounds in my chest just as strongly as his does.\n"Um," I break the quiet gently, "my apartment... it's right there."\nI point to a door that is only probably two of his long strides away and he halts in front of it just a couple seconds later, letting me down again.\nDigging in my purse for my keys, I can hardly even look at him. I can feel him still standing there, though I'm not sure if it's because he's waiting for me to go inside or waiting for me to invite him like I'd implied I wanted to.\nWhen I get the door open, I finally gather my courage within me to look over my shoulder at him again. I think... he might be unsure of why he's still there too.\nHeat rises even more fiercely on my cheeks and my stomach clenches, unable to control the fluttering of my wings as I breathe out the words, "Do you... want to come in?"\nNow he blushes a bright pink color that is absolutely breathtaking. He looks unsure how to answer. Could he be trying to figure out how to turn me down?\n"Do you... not want to?" I ask, turning my body completely back to face him, brows turning down in a question.\n"I..." he rubs at the back of his head, "I don't want to... take advantage of you."\nMy brows lower further and I tilt my head, a little confused, "Like... because you're a hero and I'm not?"\nHis face deepens to a further shade of red.\n"I don't want you to feel like you have to do anything because I helped you..."\nFor such a behemoth of a man, he acts so mild when it comes to this and it allows me to regain my composure at last. He is interested, but he's nervous.\nI take a step toward him, the pain at my feet dampened by the intense focus I have on the body in front of me.\nI can hear him audibly swallow and that scent I picked up on earlier catches my nose again suddenly. It is mouth-watering.\nAnother step and his breath hitches, his gigantic hands balling into fists.\nOnly one more and I'm standing in front of him, tilting my head back to look up at his flushed face, lips parted as he takes shallow breaths.\nThat scent only grows stronger and, now that I can better fill my nose with it, I find it reminds me of cinnamon. I've never encountered a scent like this before. It just makes me feel even more famished.\nTaking either side of his shredded jacket in my fists, I give it a soft tug, willing him forward more than forcing him.\nHe's more than capable of standing still or pulling away if that's what he wants but instead he takes a step forward as I take one back, pulling him toward my door.\nI tug him again, getting another step closer and I can see his eyes shifting quickly between my assured face and the darkened apartment behind me.\nAnother step. Just one more and we'll be through the doorway. I've got him. He wants to come.\n"Are you-"\n"I'm sure," I purr and I can tell he's finally lost any interest in resisting now.\nHe takes one more step with me and I nudge the door closed with my foot, swinging and snapping shut just behind him.\nOnly my hall light just around the corner barely illuminates our shadowed figures but I can still see those golden eyes, dark with desire, pupils blown.\nHis jacket is still clenched in my fists and I pull on it once more, easing him down slowly, carefully until his face is right in front of mine, flushed and wracked with anticipation.\nMy heart still races too, every inch of my skin prickling and aching to be touched as I move forward and softly press my lips to his.\nI hear a small intake of breath and then he's responding, his warm lips moving against mine.\nThat cinnamon aroma washes over me and all at once I'm struck by the most unimaginably delicious taste I've ever encountered in my entire life as I run my tongue across the seam of his lips and he opens for me timidly, allowing me entrance.\nI suck in a sharp breath and pull back, shocked at the sensation of his taste on my tongue.\nSee, I've missed an explanation here. I don't pull people into my bed just because they're fun- although they are that too. I do it because- through my quirk- I gain an incredible amount of energy from their sexual desire. I can scent it on them when they're close, but I absorb it when I can taste them. No matter where I put my tongue, if they have sexual energy for me, I'm able to absorb it. And no matter what food you eat, there is just no better taste in the world than hot-blooded lust on your tongue.\nThe drawback to this is that I'm literally sucking the energy out of them. They don't notice during the act, but they usually wake up feeling exhausted the next morning and have no clue why. I don't stick around for them to figure it out.\nEvery person has a particular flavor and all of them are as indescribable to someone normal as it would be to describe a rainbow to a dog. But some taste good and some taste great.\nThis man however...\nI can hardly control myself as I lunge for him, obviously surprising him when I crush my mouth against his, my tongue finding his to tangle with it and gather more of that unnamable flavor.\nI release his jacket, certain he'll be staying put, and press my chest to his, arms wrapping around his neck.\nHe lets out a deepthroated groan and the frenzy I feel at that noise is overwhelming. I've never tasted a man so enticing in my life!\nHis massive hands move delicately to my waist and I love the weight of them, his fingers lightly curling in the fabric of my dress.\nIs he afraid he'll break me if he's rough? I'll have to see if I can disabuse him of that notion...\nI can feel my wings extending and folding repeatedly at my back as if they were hands trying to grasp at him as well, my tail practically whipping back and forth in delight at this embrace.\nI break our kiss and pull away quickly to shove him back, his giant body hitting the door with a loud thud.\nWhen my eyes meet his again in the low light, they look like they're shining as he drunkenly rakes his eyes over my body. He may just now be realizing what a treat he's in for.\n"You're beautiful," he says, his lips pulling up at the corners into a tiny smile and I think my heart's about to melt right out of my chest. Of course I've been told that countless times before but the way he says it and how that tiny smile says that he knows just how fortunate he is, it makes my heart ache with how truly wanted he's made me feel.\nI'm gonna blow this man's mind tonight.\nLetting my hands begin roaming that incredibly chiselled torso, I coax his mouth back down to mine.\nHis hands still circle my waist but I want more. The thought of them on my breasts, my ass, between my legs, drives me wild and I need to figure out a way to tempt him into it.\nMy hands leave his body so I can hook my thumbs under the thin straps of my dress and begin pulling them down, over my arms then peeling the tight stretchy fabric away from my upper half.\nHis breaths pick up in speed when he notices what I'm doing and he moves his hands away to allow me to finish pulling the garment off.\nNo no no, sweetie. That's your job.\nStopping with my dress partially down my torso, lacy bra freely available to see, I break our (really awesome, by the way) make out session to take his hands in my far smaller ones, bringing both of our attention to just how different we are in size.\nI want to feel the skin of his palms and fingertips on mine. So I delicately slip the gloves from his hands. First one, then the other. Then I place them back at my waist to the fabric bunched up there, guiding him as much as necessary to see that he's the one meant to finish undressing me.\nHis giant fingers are trembling slightly as he grips the soft, stretchy fabric and slowly pulls it down, his breaths coming harder and harder.\nWhen I look up at him again, he's watching his hands pulling my dress lower and lower, drinking in every inch of skin being revealed. And when it's most of the way down my hips, he crouches, allowing me to step from the garment, being careful to mind my tail when he finally pulls it away from my body.\nI realize I'm breathing heavily as well as his eyes move up and down me in once more, standing only in my black lace bra and panties- matching because I already knew what I was out to get tonight.\nI can't hold myself back any longer and pull him toward me, not allowing him to stand up completely before shoving his face into my chest.\nHe freezes, sounding like he's not even breathing for a second, until he finally melts into me, his lips kissing at the valley between my breasts as his massive hands, gloveless and warm, return to my body far more eager to touch and caress.\nI sigh, my fingers tangling in his light blonde hair, accepting for now that my tongue can't be pressed to any part of him.\nI feel his fingers at my back, wrestling with the hooks of my bra. Now he's definitely getting more comfortable.\nWhen he's finally able to unfasten the tiny hooks, he quickly pulls the fabric from my body and immediately returns his attention to my breasts. Each of his humongous hands cups either mound of soft flesh from underneath, squeezing gently, his fingers digging in a little.\nI can't bite back the soft moan that escapes my lips when I feel his tongue, broad and hot and wet, trailing up the soft underside of one breast and ending at my already peaked nipple, pulling it into his mouth to tease.\nHe squeezes a little tighter at my tiny cry of pleasure, pulling me in closer and sucking in a shaky breath.\nWhen I think I might want to rip his face away to feel those lips on mine again, he moves to my other breast and I fall back into the pleasure anew.\n"Fuck," I whisper lightly, fingernails digging into the nape of his neck. And he groans that deepthroated groan that absolutely undoes me.\nI have to taste him again. His scent and the sounds and the way he's touching me is driving me out of my mind.\nI push him back again, allowing him to stand. His back once more pressed into the door.\n"I hope you're ready for this," I purr, gazing hungrily into his half-lidded eyes. He swallows thickly, his chest heaving, and gives a small nod as though he's scared but braving it. Well... he won't be nervous much longer.\nI press my mouth to his chest, that unknowable taste hitting me all over again, sending me into another frenzy and I grind my hips against his thigh. His come up to my lower belly but I can feel his arousal throb when he feels my groin at his thigh. I wish he could feel how wet I am for him.\nMy lips travel down the center of his chest, toward his abs, kissing and licking as I go, savoring the rich flavor dancing on my tongue as he reacts to me.\nHis head tilts back on the door when I lay my hand on the thickness I can feel in his pants, my tongue travelling along the valleys of his abs.\nI move my hand along his length, getting an idea of just what I'm working with. He's big, no doubt about that. Not terrifyingly big, though. I can still handle him.\nI've had all sizes before and none have truly disappointed me. It's more disappointing when a man doesn't know what he's doing.\nThe way he rocks his hips into my touch tells me he knows exactly what he's doing and what he wants from me.\nI finally get to pulling at the button of his pants and unzipping them, my mouth below his belly button now, moving along the thin line of hair leading under the waistband of his boxer briefs.\nHe hisses in a breath and makes a long grunting sound when I pull that elastic down and wrap my hand around his- um... considerable- girth. My fingers don't even come close to meeting at the tips.\nHis taste is stronger than ever as I drag my tongue ever lower and it sounds like he's practically panting in anticipation now.\nGripping him at the base, I level my head with his cock, positioning him at my lips. As the rest of his body suggests, his cock is deliciously large, starting the same color as his skin at the base, then darkening to a pink color near the tip. Thick veins are running along his shaft and he twitches, anxious to get started.\nDon't worry, sweetie. I'll take good care of you.\nI slowly slide him into my mouth, tongue stroking along the underside and he sucks in a huge breath, letting it out in a growl that makes me shiver to the tip of my tail when he hits the back of my throat. Then I begin drawing my head back.\nI hear his fingernails scratching at my door as he digs into the wood, probably trying not to grab my hair. He's still holding himself back, afraid to be rough. It's adorable but also misguided. I'm at my most invulnerable when I'm absorbing this energy and his is feeding me better than any ever before.\nMy wings flare out behind me. They feel stronger, more powerful and I have to tuck them back in before they start doing something really embarrassing, like flapping.\nI move my mouth over him, bobbing back and forth in long, slow motions, edging him so he doesn't explode all at once when I start moving faster.\nHis panting gets louder and another growl escapes his lips as I stop for a second to swirl my tongue around his tip before taking him as far as I can again.\n"So... good...." he breathes, hardly able to get the words out.\nI inwardly smile. So he's a talker....\nI reach toward his hand, fingernails still digging into the door, and take it in my own, guiding it to my head.\nI want to feel just how much he appreciates this. And damned if I don't love me some hair pulling.\nHe doesn't even hesitate at my invitation this time and grabs a fistfull of my deep violet locks, gripping hard.\nI moan onto his cock, letting him know that's exactly what I like and he whines in response, melting under that vibration.\n"You're... so gorgeous..." he pants out and I look up at him to find he's watching me, his eyes practically glowing with pleasure, blonde curls hanging in his face damp with sweat.\nI don't look away, excited by him enjoying the sight of me.\nPulling my mouth from his cock, he grunts his displeasure, until I settle my tongue at his base, gliding it all the way back up to the tip and sucking him slowly into my mouth again inch by inch.\n"Fuck... yes.... just like that," he groans, his eyelids fluttering. This is the first time I've heard anything remotely like a curse word come from his mouth and something about that dirty word drenches my panties.\nIn return, he gathers more of my hair in his gigantic fist, gripping it even harder this time and I break the seal of lips on his shaft to cry out, finding an intense pleasure in the mild pain.\n"You... you like that?" he asks, his eyes glittering and I raise my eyebrows at him in affirmation.\n"I like... when you make that sound..." he sighs leaning into me as I begin moving my mouth against him once more.\nI like his voice too when he sounds wrecked like that.\nHe pulls at my hair again, eliciting another moan from me that makes his cock twitch in my mouth and he bucks his hips, pushing a little further than I have up until this point.\nHe quickly stills and relaxes his grip, thinking he's gone too far.\n"Sorry," he whispers.\nThis is what I've wanted all along, though. Push me. Take me. I can handle it.\nI don't know how else to tell him that this was the right move without pulling my mouth away from him so I dig my fingers into both sides of his hips and move them forward again, like he'd just done.\nHe groans again, his fist tightening once more.\n"You're..." he struggles to catch his breath, "You're fucking amazing."\nUgh, does he know what he's doing to my panties right now?\n"I want you," he breathes out heavily and I meet his eyes again, telling him I agree.\nThen his eyes darken and his face goes from overwrought with pleasure to assured confidence. He's finally decided to see how far he can go.\n"I don't want to hurt you," he says carefully, "So push me away if I do."\nMy eyes widen and I give him the tiniest of nods before he's wrapping his hand around the entirety of my hair and twisting it a couple times around his fist, securing it tightly.\nOhhhhh... I've brought out an animal now.\nI hold onto his hips for dear life as he thrusts into my mouth, pushing at the back of my throat.\nHis fist at my hair pushes and pulls my head in time with his hips and I have to concentrate now, keeping my gag reflex in check.\nHe knows exactly what he wants, exactly how to move me, and the waves of energy coming off of him are intoxicating.\n"You feel... so... damn... good," he grunts out, thrusting into my mouth faster, pushing further.\nI'm so glad my throat's been trained for this because I am drowning in my own juices pouring down my legs as he pants heavily, plunging into my mouth over and over.\nAt some point my eyes begin to water but I just don't fucking care. This is fucking amazing. The way he feels. The way he tastes. The way he sounds.\nEvery single one of my senses is filled with him.\n"I'm gonna... cum..." he warns me, still slamming his cock down my throat.\nI can feel the moment he reaches his climax as he brings his other hand to rest at my head and holds me still, his cock throbbing, then shooting streams of hot cum into my mouth.\nThe deep, rumbling growling sound he makes as he explodes on my tongue is music to my unimaginably horny ears.\nI have never wanted to climb up on a man so bad in my life and I can't stop my wings from flapping now.\nThey move back and forth, catching at the air but hardly able to even begin lifting me.\nHis breaths slow and eventually even out as he pulls away, looking down at me with concern.\n"I didn't... hurt you? Scare you?" he asks, somewhat back to his more reserved self.\n"No," I say as I stand again, wiping away a droplet of cum that dribbled out of my mouth with my finger and placing it on my tongue, "I liked it."\nHis eyes widen with something between shock and reverence and a whole new wave of that sweet, thick cinnamon aroma washes over me.\nI smile wickedly at him and he comes back with his adorable sweetheart grin that makes my heart and wings do their little flutter thing.\nBut then it dies on his lips as he droops against the door, sliding down it to sit on the floor.\nHorror fills me and I'm too afraid to even touch him. Did I do this? Did I hurt him? Was I so excited that I somehow absorbed more energy than I thought I was? This has never happened before!\n"A-are you okay?!" I ask, my voice sounding panicky, kneeling next to him.\nHe brings his hand to his head, covering his eyes briefly.\n"Yeah," he breathes out, "I... just feel really tired all of a sudden."\nOh shit! Oh fuck! Oh shit! I did do this to him! How? Why is this happening?!\n"I'm sorry," he says, sincerity and regret edging his voice, "I don't think... I can stay."\n"No! No! It's okay!" I say hurriedly, almost slipping out an apology of my own but I'm able to hold it back. I can't have him realizing what I've done.\n"I didn't think my energy would run out like this," he continues on, "But my day was hard. I shouldn't have come in."\n"No!" I say, chancing a hand on his knee and leaning toward him, "I'm glad you came inside. I wanted you to."\nWhy am I saying this stuff to him? He's gonna leave and I'm never gonna see him again. I can't.\nHe takes his hand from his face to look into my worried eyes, giving me a weak smile.\n"I wanted to, as well," he says and it warms my heart to hear him admit it. His expression becomes a little more forlorn, "I don't even know your name."\nI didn't want him to. I shouldn't want to know his either. I wanted this to be it and then we went our separate ways. But I'm crushing hard and I can't help myself when I utter quietly, "It's Aiko... Fujisaki Aiko."\n"Aiko," he sighs my name out and it feels like a wave all its own surging through me, "Im Toyomitsu Taishiro. Since I'm off the clock."\nHe grins widely again, looking like he's regaining some energy at least.\nTaishiro...\n"I want to see you again," he says suddenly and my heart stutters. Names are one thing but actually seeing him again? I don't know if I can do that...\nBut I've never tasted anyone like him. If I could have him again- and maybe control myself better next time, when he's not battered from a mission- I can't deny that I would want that.\n"I have to go to Tokyo for a few days," I tell him, probably the flimsiest attempt at discouraging someone ever, "I have work there."\nHe nods in understanding, "That's okay. I won't be back to normal for a few days anyway."\nHe looks like he's got some of his color back now he's been sitting there for a few minutes and he pushes himself up to his feet, grabbing his gloves from the floor and putting them back on.\nLooking down at me, he pulls off his tattered jacket and covers me with what little scrap there is of it.\nHa! I'd forgotten I was practically naked in front of him.\nBut now his entire upper body is exposed, reminding me of how unsatisfied I still am. I can't ask him for anything, though. Next time...\n"Next time, I'll make sure you're pleased as well," he says in a velvety voice, a small smirk playing at his lips.\nDammit. I am gonna see him again...\nHe turns toward the door and opens it after making sure his jacket is pressed against my chest.\n"When you get back in town, come see me at my agency," he pulls a cute little card, yellow like his jacket. "Fat Gum Agency" it reads across the top and gives a phone number and address.\nThat address is nowhere near here. I think it might be on the other side of Osaka. That's probably why I've never even seen or heard of him or this agency before.\nI clutch the card in my hand to my chest and nod, "Okay."\nHe smiles widely at that and walks out the door, closing it softly behind him with a soft click.\nWell shit... I don't know what exactly I've gotten myself into but it's midnight now and I have to get up early to catch the train in the morning.\nI don't bother putting on any nightclothes but I scrub what makeup is left on my face off and just plop into bed, still holding onto Taishiro's jacket.\nIt smells like him. The sweaty him, not the cinnamon him. Those scents don't linger on clothing for some reason... But it still smells like him and I'm still horny as hell despite the fact that I got the energy I'd been hoping for. That hunger is sated at least.\nI search in my side table drawer and finally draw out my vibrator, a trusted old friend who's never left me unhappy.\nIt's not the satisfaction I was hoping for tonight, but it's at least a release for now until I can get back in town and climb on top of that giant of a man finally.\nI fall asleep, covered in that musky yellow garment.\n--\nIt's been a long four days at underwear shoots (what I mainly model) in Tokyo when I get back to Osaka and I tell myself I am not at all being desperate or thirsty or needy when I decide I'll pay Taishiro a visit at his agency right away.\nI'm not that excited to see him all healed up and no longer exhausted. And I'm definitely not also made up to look really nice with my violet hair styled in waves and a cute crop top matched with high waisted shorts.\nDefinitely. Not.\nThe energy I absorbed from him was some of the strongest, most long-lasting I've ever had. No wonder it tasted so amazing! It made me feel refreshed when I woke up the morning after, despite going to bed so late, and has kept me feeling peppy for days on end. I'm just now getting to the dregs of it, the itch to absorb more barely even noticeable right now.\nThe heels of my boots click neatly on the tiled floor of the Fat Gum Agency as I enter, looking around at how pristine it all looks. This place is nice. So Taishiro must work for a pretty prominent hero....\n"Hi there! Can I help you with something?" the clear bright voice of the receptionist asks, a polite smile crossing her face.\n"Hi," I say to her, a responding smile on my own, "I'm looking for someone. His name is Taishiro? He's really tall, blonde, gold eyes, super nice? I don't know his hero name but he mentioned that he works here."\n"Sure," she nods and gets up from her desk, "this way please."\nWell, that wasn't too hard. I guess he's pretty well known here. I mean, how could he not be, right?\nShe leads me up some stairs and to an office near the back.\nKnocking lightly on the door, she opens it to poke her head in, "Fat Gum, there's a visitor here..." and she hesitates.\nFat Gum? Like the owner of the agency, Fat Gum? Why is she leading me here?\n"Send them in," I hear a rich, highly expressive voice say.\nShe retracts her head and pushes the door open the rest of the way, "In here, miss."\n"In here? But-"\nShe sweeps me into the room and closes the door behind me before I have a chance to react and I'm feeling a little off kilter here. Why am I in here?\nThere's a huge- and I mean HUGE- man behind the desk in a yellow hoodie, the hood fitting tight to his head. Fat Gum is... fat. Yeah, ok, that makes sense. I didn't realize there were even any fat heroes out there...\nHe smiles widely at me, his mustard yellow eyes glittering with recognition.\n"Hi," he says almost like he's holding back intense excitement, face looking bright and cheery.\nOh no... Does he really recognize me? Is he a fan? Is he a pervert who collects underwear magazines?\nI give his gigantic frame a once-over and struggle to put a polite smile on my face but I can't quite seem to make it look genuine.\n"Uhhhmm... hi..."- that's a good start- "I was looking for Taishiro. He's a hero but I don't know his hero name. He said he worked here. Do you know him? I don't know why that lady led me here."\nHis smile slips a notch but he does his best to recover.\n"Yes, he works here," he says with a little less mirth but still friendly, eyes not leaving my face, like he's assessing me.\nI have difficulty keeping my lip from curling. He's making me uncomfortable. Those yellow eyes in that chunky face are on me, probing, watching my every move, every facial expression.\n"Okay.... Well can I see him? He told me I could come visit when I got back in town today."\nHe can see now how I'm looking at him, how uncomfortable I am with him and his smile falls further, a slight crease forming between his masked brows.\nIt's the same kind of mask Taishiro was wearing I think. His jacket is similar too. Is there some kind of uniform to work here?\n"Well it's complicated," he tries to explain, standing from his chair.\nHoly guacamole he's more than huge! He's far taller than All Might or Taishiro and he's got to weigh more than the both of them combined.\nMy wings droop as something close to terror pulses through me. Does he mean to approach me? I step back a pace, my eyes darting around wildly.\n"Aiko," he says informally, as if he's familiar with me. So he is a fan...\n"Excuse me? Do I know you?" I snap, reaching into my purse, ready to grab my zap stick. I don't know if I'll be capable of fighting off all of that bulk. I swear to sweet holy All Might, he better not come near me.\nHe sees my hand in my purse and his serious expression has now become offended.\n"No," he says flatly and I can see in his face that he's hurt. He wasn't expecting this kind of response from me, "No, you don't."\nWe're quiet for a few seconds and he looks contemplative, like he's trying to puzzle something out in his head.\nHis mouth turns down in a distasteful frown and he keeps that flat, emotionless edge to his voice when he finally speaks again, "I'm not gonna touch you, you don't need to pull that thing out."\nI start. How did he know I was reaching for the zap stick?\nThen it hits me. He's probably spoken to Taishiro. He's told him about me. Maybe that was how he knew my name. How he recognized me. Maybe I misjudged him.\nI pull my hand out of my purse.\n"Sorry," I say awkwardly, "I'm just used to- I don't know you- I- Can you please just tell me where I can find Taishiro?"\nBut the damage is done, it seems. I don't think Fat Gum likes me much anymore.\n"He's not here," he replies, voice still detached and his chubby face full of displeasure.\nMy heart sinks and I think I see his face fall in response to my own.\n"I don't understand," I say glumly, "He said I could come see him today."\nHe heaves a great big sigh with that massive body of his.\n"Plans changed. I don't know when he'll be back but it won't be today. You should leave."\nThat prickles at me. He was so polite and kind just a moment ago. Now he's telling me to leave without even telling me anything about who I came to see.\n"Can't I just-"\n"This is a hero agency, miss," he says with an authoritative voice, "Not a dating service."\nMy mouth drops open at his jab and I glare at him.\n"Excuse the fuck outta me," I snarl, my tail whipping at the ground like an irritated cat, "He told me to come here. He said it was okay! I can't help that I didn't know things had changed!"\n"Fat?" I hear a knock at the door and a spiky head of red hair pokes in the door, "I thought I heeeeaard..."\nHe drifts off when he spots me, his jaw slackening.\nOh great... I'm not interested, kid.\n"Red," Fat Gum says, his voice getting softer toward the obviously teenaged boy, "Everything is fine. I'm just having a disagreement with Fujisaki-san here," I whip my head around to sneer at him. He should've started with that name if he knew it. "She'll be leaving soon."\n"The hell I am!" I spit out, feeling indignant about being dismissed so readily, "I just came to see Taishiro. I didn't realize it would be a big deal! Can't you at least just... tell me where he lives so I can visit him?"\n"Taishiro?" little red-headed kid says, "But he's-"\n"Red!" Fat Gum cuts him off, giving him a pointed stare and a shake of his head.\nI look between them quickly, my eyes narrowing.\n"What the hell is going on here?" I ask, my wings flaring with rage as my tail snaps at the ground.\n"I said he's not here," he reiterates, his stare shifting to me, "He's not home either and even if he were, we don't give out information like that to just anyone."\n"I'm not just anyone! I know him! He gave me his jacket!" I feel as stupid and childish as that statement came out and hang my head at that.\nThe red-headed boy looks confused and concerned and I guess he just doesn't know when to butt out.\n"I'm sorry to disappoint you," Fat Gum says with more regret than I would've expected, his eyes looking momentarily disappointed as well and I just feel more confused and frustrated.\n"Whatever," I shake my head, rushing out the door and forcing the boy- Red I guess- to stumble back quickly as I pass him by.\nHe's heading into Fat Gum's office when I stomp down the stairs and out the door, feeling pissed off and dissatisfied.\nAm I ever going to see Taishiro again? For some reason the thought of not doing so is actually pretty upsetting.\nI have a couple weeks before my next photoshoot and probably only a couple days before I start feeling sluggish and in need of energy again...\nStanding outside the Fat Gum Agency, the front of the building looking incredibly like the founder, I come to a decision and set my jaw, determination rising inside of me.\nI will see Taishiro again. I have to. I don't know what Fat Gum or anyone else in there is hiding but I'll find out if they're keeping him from me for some reason, that's for sure.\n

Chapter 2:\n"I know you don't usually do these things but I thought you might be interested this time," my manager Tomoyo says over the phone as I sit with my weekly planner open, going over my schedule for the following week.\nI make a tsking sound and roll my eyes. Every time she says something like this it's for something I have absolutely no intention of doing. Things like commercials or full nude shoots.\n"I know, I know," she placates me. We've done this dance a thousand times, "But this time I really think you will."\n"Okay, I'm listening," urging her to continue.\n"The actress for a commercial just had to cancel on a shoot last minute-" but I've already stopped listening. A commercial. She knows I don't do commercials.\nI tilt my head and stare off into the distance, letting her finish her spiel.\n"-and I know you were looking for more information about the Fat Gum Agency so-"\n"Waitwaitwait," I stop her, "What's that about the Fat Gum Agency?"\n"You're a brat," she admonishes, "If you'd been listening instead of ignoring me because I said the word commercial, you would know."\nI swear this woman thinks she's my mom sometimes...\n"Okay, whatever, I'm sorry. Now tell me about the commercial," I push her, falling into the bratty role she so likes to place me in.\n"Like I was saying," she goes on, "The actress for this commercial had to cancel and they're looking for last minute replacements for tomorrow. It's for an energy drink and the Fat Gum Agency is going to have representatives there. I know you were looking for information on them, so I figured you'd want the part."\n"Well, do you know who all is going to be there?" I ask hurriedly.\n"No, I don't know that kind of information, Aiko. The director isn't going to care if you want to meet one hero or another," she says with annoyance.\nI'd asked her a few days ago if she knew anything about the agency and she hadn't known much either. None too surprising considering she's located in Tokyo.\n"Does that mean I would have to head to Tokyo in the morning?" I wonder, already feeling weary just at the thought of such a long unplanned trip.\n"No, actually," she replies chirpily, "It means I would be taking the train to you in the morning because it's over in Osaka."\nWell, that's a relief at least.\nI rub at my forehead, considering my options. I don't like to do commercials because I hate the fake voice and bouncy attitude they want every woman in every commercial to have. But this is an important opportunity.\nI've spent the past three days, after essentially getting booted from the Fat Gum Agency, doing as much research as I possibly could. Turns out that heroes' real names are confidential information. You have to have a certain security clearance to see them or have been following the hero from their school days back when they didn't go by their hero names all the time. That or they can give you their name.\nIt warms my heart to think that Taishiro offered me his so freely. I just wish he'd also stopped to give me his hero name too.\nIt's also impossible to get a roster of employees at hero agencies for obvious reasons. The last thing any agency needs is for a full list of the employees to be readily available to the public.\nSo finding out more about Taishiro through those means has been a complete bust and finding out anything about the Fat Gum Agency hasn't been much easier. Heroes like their privacy just like everyone else, I suppose.\nSo I've come to the conclusion that I'll either have to ask around about them (which I've already done a bit of, to no avail) or I'll have to go back and try my luck again.\nIt's occurred to me as well that Taishiro knows I'm back at home by now and he hasn't come to see me either. I don't like to consider that he might've changed his mind after all. But maybe this commercial is my chance to either see Taishiro again or to find out from the heroes there how I might be able to.\n"I'll do it," I tell Tomoyo, "Tell them I want to do it."\n"Okay!" she says excitedly. She's been trying and trying to get me into commercials for years. Now she'll never stop pestering me about it, I can tell, "I'll call you back when I get confirmation on it!"\n--\nThe next day I'm up bright and early in the morning and readying myself for my very first commercial. It was almost frightening how fast I was accepted.\nI won't say that I'm a well-known or celebrity model by any means but I am sought after in the industry. I have a steady stream of jobs and walk every single show for a good handful of lingerie designers. Tokyo Fashion Week is a busy time for me.\nSo the director jumped at the chance to have me and now here I am, taking the train across town to the production studio where we'll be shooting for most of the day.\nI don't really have much in the way of lines to study. Just the one.\n"Surge. For the hero in you."\nAnd they're actually paying me a fair amount of money for this... Maybe I should've considered commercials a little earlier.\nAs I'm taking the short ride to my destination, I go over how I want to play this. If Taishiro is there, I should try to get his hero name and hopefully a better way to reach him than "visit me at my agency where my boss will promptly kick you out." (And probably have to fight the urge to not to drop to my knees in front of him right then and there. Not for begging either. Although, I can't say I'm above it if he's into that... My hunger has, obviously, been getting a little overbearing lately.)\nIf he's not there, I need to try and talk to whoever is and see what information I can get about him.\nI also have to consider the possibility that Fat Gum might be there. If he is, I'm not quite sure what I should do. But he and I will be on even footing this time. Both of us on a job. We'll both have to act professional and courteous. I guess I'll have to start with that.\nI make my way to the studio after getting off at my stop and I'm greeted with a whirlwind of activity. There are people running here and there, getting props and chairs and lights ready.\n"Aiko! Great! Right on time," Tomoyo bounds up to me, waving, "Let's get you into makeup while they're still getting the set ready."\nShe leads me into a room with multiple chairs and vanities, a stylist already waiting.\nI'm used to all this, including the people running around like chickens with their heads cut off. At least it's not like at a runway show where twenty other women are running around half naked, trying to jump into their next outfit and hogging the stylists for touch ups.\nI'm feeling pampered and relaxed, almost done, when the door to the room slams open and in walks that Red boy I saw at the agency last time. He's followed closely by a silver haired boy around the same age and another boy, a bit older than the other two, drifts in behind them looking extremely anxious.\n"We wouldn't have been late if you hadn't forgotten your stupid phone and made us run all the way back for it!" the silver haired boy shouts at Red.\n"I needed it! I forgot it was charging! So what?! You've forgotten plenty-"\nHe halts, much like he did the last time we "met" when he sees me in the chair at the end.\n"Hey!" he says excitedly, a good-natured smile coming to his face, "It's you! From the agency!"\nOf course he remembers me... I'm surprised he has such a positive response to seeing my face after how rude I was to him last time.\n"Hi," I respond as warmly as possible, "What a coincidence!"\nThis isn't so bad. Two kids and a guy who looks barely out of high school. It's not exactly who I'm looking for but at least Fat Gum isn't here. I know I probably owe this kid an apology. I didn't directly yell at him but I know I wasn't polite.\nHe comes to sit in the chair next to me and I meet eyes with him in the mirror as the stylist continues on my hair.\n"Hey, I... just wanted to apologize for how I behaved when we met last. I know I wasn't being very mature. Some stuff happened..."\n"Ah don't worry about that," he shrugs it off, "It seemed like you were pretty stressed. It's fine."\nI give him a small thankful smile, appreciating him letting me off the hook like that.\n"You're all set," the stylist says, finishing up with flat-ironing my hair and giving it a onceover.\n"Thank you," I say courteously as she moves on to Red, who looks a little bit nervous about having makeup applied to his face.\n"I'll see you on set," I tell him, glancing briefly at the other boys as well, "I look forward to working with you."\nThey give the customary response to this statement and I flash a small smile as I exit the room. When I do, I can hear them already returning to their rowdy conversation before the door shuts completely.\nMaking my way down the hall towards wardrobe now, things look a lot less hectic. The set must be near ready. My sympathies for that poor stylist if she's the only one who has to work on those three. They were late and they'll probably end up holding up the whole production but the onus will end up being on her if she doesn't rush them out of there fast.\n"Fujisaki-san?" I hear a man say behind me and I turn to see someone I assume is a PA, based on his outfit.\n"Yes, that's me," I smile politely, "Am I needed for something? I was headed to wardrobe right now. I'll only be a few minutes."\n"Oh no no no! Don't worry about that. They don't need you yet," the middle-aged man says, looking me over.\n"Okay," I say, starting to get a weird vibe from this conversation, "Then what..."\nI lift my hands, palms out, to emphasize my confusion.\nA blush spreads across his cheeks and he looks a bit nervous but he still finds it in himself to speak, "I-I just wanted to tell you I'm a really big fan of yours."\nAh shit...\nSo this guy is a pervert who collects underwear catalogues....\nI take a calming breath and try to keep that smile on my face, "Well, I really appreciate that. Thank you for your support."\n"Oh it's no problem," the PA steps forward, reaching out to take my hand, "You are so beautiful and I just wanted to get a chance to meet you in person."\nI snatch my hand away quickly, nearly forgetting myself. Now I'm feeling extremely uncomfortable.\nWhy do people have such a hard time keeping their hands off of other people?\n"Thank you again," I say, still keeping as polite of a voice as I can. I'm on a job. I can't just start trashing someone I'm probably going to be working with all day, "I should really get to wardrobe."\n"Wait! Wait!" he says, coming toward me again and I'm at an impasse here. This guy needs to be put in his place but what if that gets me fired? I can't risk my reputation like that...\n"Fujisaki-san," a familiar voice calls to me from an adjoining hallway not far from where I'm standing.\nFat Gum, in his usual bright yellow jacket, strides up to us, looking at me like he's known me his whole life.\nSo he is here after all...\nI look him up and down. He's still intimidatingly huge, although the pleasant look on his face is a little bit disarming.\n"They're waiting for you in wardrobe," he says calmly, mostly ignoring the man in front of me.\nHe's... he's saving me.\nDid he see this entire interaction or did he just happen upon me? I don't know, but I do know that he wouldn't be greeting me this way if he didn't know I needed help.\n"Oh," I say quietly, somewhat shaken by both this encounter with this fan and what Fat Gum has just done for me, "Okay. I'm going now. Thank you."\nI give him a meaningful glance as I walk past him that he doesn't respond to. The man doesn't try to stop me this time.\n--\n"SURGE!" the Red kid yells from in front of the camera and I have to clamp a hand to my mouth to keep my laughter in. This commercial... It is so incredibly ridiculous and it will probably sell like hotcakes.\nThe premise is that I offer these normal, average-looking guys cans of this energy drink, they drink it, and then they morph into heroes and use their really cool quirks. My line comes in at the end, when the camera cuts back to me. The most hilarious part of this whole thing is that they have to practically scream the name of the energy drink before they transform and I am dying every time they do.\nRed and Silver (as I will call him until I learn his real name) are plenty enthusiastic. Anxious guy is... Well he's anxious and doing horribly but his quirk is fascinating. He's able to sprout tentacles from his arms!\nI have no clue why he was sent here, though. He looks like he's about to have a breakdown and it seems the director notices this as well because after he cuts, he calls for a lunch break a half hour early.\n"This is probably the worst day of my life," anxious guy complains as they move off of the set.\nI feel bad for him. He could be great if he could overcome his anxiety. He's even got a perfect face for being in front of a camera.\n"Ah, don't worry, Suneater, you'll do fine after the lunch break," Red tells him, hooking an arm around his neck.\n"I doubt it," he mumbles, his tone forlorn.\nI want to say something. I should say something. Right? The commercial's success depends on him just as well as me or the other two.\n"You're good enough for this commercial," I interject as they walk past and the three boys stop to look back at me.\n"You were watching us?" Red scratches at the back of his head a little flush spreading across his cheeks.\n"Did you not want me to? I can go somewhere else-"\n"No!" he waves his hand in front of him, "It's fine."\nI glance back toward the downtrodden guy, offering a bit of encouragement, "Your look is really great for the camera and your quirk is fantastic. I've never seen anything like it."\nHe slouches a little bit more, eyes shifting uncomfortably. He doesn't take compliments well. He'd probably take criticism worse.\n"What's your quirk called?" I inquire, urging him to speak.\n"Manifest," he sighs dramatically, still keeping his eyes glued to the floor.\n"What does that mean?" I ask again, looking around at either of the other two boys as well.\nHe answers- more strength to his voice now- before the other two can open their mouths, "I can manifest whatever I eat from my body."\n"What, so you make those tentacles because you ate... octopus?" I wonder, genuinely intrigued.\n"Yes," he replies, demonstrating his tentacled appendages, "We eat a lot of takoyaki at Fat Gum's."\nThat sparks a memory in me. Taishiro bought takoyaki that night he took me home. And, now I recall, Red had been about to say something about him before Fat Gum cut him off.\nI look around discreetly. Fat Gum's not here right now. Maybe I can coax more information out of them.\n"Does he like takoyaki or something?" I say nonchalantly, just making conversation.\nAll three of them exchange glances. I'm not sure what that's about exactly.\n"It's pretty much all he ever eats," Red comments as if this were common knowledge.\n"And that's what lets you manifest all of those tentacles?" I move on, I have to try to be subtle, "Can you manifest things like plants and rocks and stuff too?"\nSuneater grows a vine from his wrist in answer to my question, more confident still.\n"I can combine traits from different things too," he shows me an example by manifesting a crab-like shell on the vine.\nIt's really an impressive and powerful quirk. It's no wonder he's a hero.\n"That quirk is perfect for this shoot," I try to build him up further, "You'll look really awesome transforming with all those tentacles. Are you struggling being in front of a camera?"\nSuneater looks more willing to discuss his misgivings with me now and shakes his head, "There are too many people watching."\nHuh... Not the cameras? That's what usually gets to most people.\n"But... you work in front of people all day," I say, somewhat perplexed.\n"He doesn't do well with civilians watching him work as a hero either. He freezes up after we've taken the villain down," Red tells me from behind his hand but loud enough for everyone to hear anyway. He's not the most subtle person...\n"Okay but you face villains easily enough, right? They're people. Why not just think of the crew as villains?"\nSuneater's brow furrows as he contemplates my suggestion. The other two boys make faces at each other that say they think this isn't too bad of an idea.\n"I'll try," he acquiesces, toying with a lock of hair in front of his face. That's all the answer I'll get out of him.\n"Thanks for the advice," Red comes forward now, flashing a sharp smile at me.\nI shrug, trying to play it off, "I've been doing photoshoots for a long time."\nActually, I really enjoy helping my juniors. I've mentored a few younger models in the past and I found I was actually pretty good at it. It makes me wonder if- when my modeling career is over- I should go on to coach aspiring models.\n"Oh, we never formally introduced ourselves," Red notes with a hint of apology, "I'm Red Riot."\nAhhh... thus Red. Like he called Fat Gum "Fat" for short.\n"I'm Real Steel," Silver- probably actually Steel- says, pointing at himself with his thumb.\n"You already know Suneater," Red refers to their cohort, who's dismissed himself and wandered off toward the buffet.\n"It's nice to formally meet you," I reply respectfully as one should to their juniors, "I'm Fujisaki Aiko. Feel free to call me Aiko."\n"Is Ai-senpai okay?" Red grins at me, full of boyish excitement.\nI haven't been called something like that since high school at least. But it's a cute enough nickname.\n"Yeah, sure," I allow, giving him a kind smile.\n"I've been wanting to ask about your quirk," Real Steel says, pointing at my wings, and I turn to him, not sure if I'm ready to answer any kind of inquiry.\n"Okay..." I say apprehensively, not hiding that fact.\n"Why are your wings so small? Can you even use them? What's your quirk?"\nI feel my face heat and I press my lips into a thin line because this is a sore subject for me.\n"Well..." I trail off. It's always an embarrassing thing to admit, "They 'work'," I spread them out at different angles to give an example, "but I can't fly, if that's what you mean."\nHis brows crease in confusion, opening his mouth to ask the next question I already know so well. So I cut him off before he starts.\n"Yes, they're completely useless," I say with annoyance, more for the hateful appendages at my back than the boy. I flap them as hard as I can, catching the air in them in an attempt to fly. But they don't even get me to my tiptoes. Pointless.\nThe two boys look kinda sad for me and I quirk a brow at them, "Does that make me deficient or something? I'm not a hero. Why should I care?"\nI brush it off but I actually do care. I hate these offensive things. I was bullied in school for my "useless quirk". And even being the only person who knows the full extent of it, I'd still say this quirk is pretty useless. What has it gotten me so far except having to push every person I want to be intimate with away?\n"You're not deficient," I hear that deeper, expressive voice come from behind me and we all jump as if we'd just been caught doing something bad.\nI whirl to find Fat Gum walking up to us leisurely, multiple sandwiches and snacks in his robust arms. He moves pretty gracefully for someone so large. A lot of fat people waddle around. A lot of tall people will take loping steps. Fat Gum strides as though the weight on him is no issue for him whatsoever. I know the ease and speed with which he rose from his seat the last time we met was part of what startled me.\nHis mustard eyes meet mine as he begins handing off food to the boys, "You just haven't had a chance to explore your quirk like students in hero courses do.There's probably more to it than you think."\nI eye him suspiciously and my tail twitches. He can't know that... right?\nNodding warily, my gaze falls to a sandwich he's holding out to me as well.\n"Are you hungry?" he asks kindly.\nWhy is he being so nice? He doesn't have to pretend to like me in front of that creep anymore.\n"I'm fine," I reply quickly, knowing I'll have to make myself a salad instead.\nFat Gum withdraws the offered sandwich and starts eating it himself, making little munching sounds.\nIt's eerily familiar, this awkward moment between us and a suspicion begins to build in my mind about him. I have to look away to keep from narrowing my eyes at him.\n"What's... what's your quirk?" I blurt out, focusing my gaze on Tomoyo over in the corner conversing with the director like they're old buddies- who knows, maybe they are.\n"Me?" Fat Gum asks, looking around like I might be asking someone else.\n"She definitely means you, Fat," Red snorts from behind me, mouth full of food.\nI refocus my attention on him again, sure I won't be making any untoward faces this time, and I see him watching me, his own look of uncertainty in his eyes.\n"Fat Absorption," he answers at last, his deep yellow gaze piercing me.\nI don't know why being under Fat Gum's watchful stare makes me feel so exposed and vulnerable. It seems like he always sees right through me and I don't like it. Especially since I wish I could do the same to him. I want to know what he's hiding.\nI resist the urge to fidget, crossing my arms over my chest. I need to stand my ground in this impromptu staring contest between us.\n"So... you absorb things into your fat?" I ask, refusing to look away from him. Am I even acting like an adult right now?\n"Exactly," he confirms with a friendly smile like he's not at all a part of this match.\nSo that's why... Why he's fat. It's not for any other reason than the fact that the more fat he has, the better his quirk works.\n"Do you absorb... people?" I question, somewhat nervously.\n"It doesn't hurt anyone," he explains, laughter in his eyes, "It's more like when you get stuck in those foam pits at kids' play gyms. And it also absorbs shock so punches and bullets don't work either."\nI'm about to ask about Taishiro's quirk next but Tomoyo lays a hand on my shoulder and I tear my gaze away from his, effectively losing the staring match.\n"You'll be up next after lunch," she says, pulling me from the group of heroes I'd been surrounded by, "Let's finish and get you something to eat so we can touch your makeup up before the shoot."\nI nod a polite farewell, and let her drag me away.\n--\n"Surge. For the hero in you," I drawl out, leaning over the prop bar I'm standing at, letting my wings flare minutely behind me as I give the camera a flirty smile.\nI gotta give this director one thing. He did not force me to be bubbly or cute. I don't pull either of those things off well and he understood that I could sell with my own particular assets.\n"Cut!" he calls out and I stand up straight again, "Perfect, Aiko-chan! I think we got all we needed!"\nOnly 3 takes. That was easy enough. I really should consider more commercials I suppose...\nI can leave now if I want to- my part is over- but I kinda want to see if Suneater takes my advice.\nI watch a couple of his takes and his confidence is definitely improved. He looks like a real hero now and it's impressive.\nA large, looming figure steps up beside me close enough I can tell that, even at my height, I don't even reach close to his shoulder.\n"Thank you for helping the boys," Fat Gum says flatly, not looking away from the shoot taking place on set, "I brought them here to give them some experience with things like endorsements. Especially Suneater. He's gotten quite a bit better from his debut as a hero but he's still got a lot of anxiety. You helped him instead of getting frustrated with him."\nI don't know exactly how much Fat Gum does or does not like me- especially after rescuing me from that fan and our short conversation earlier- but I feel like saying this must've been hard for him if he dislikes me as much as I suspect he does. He seems to really believe in giving credit where credit is due, even when he disapproves of the person.\n"I'm not just gonna leave him to struggle. We'd be here all day," I say with an aloof tone, flicking my tail peevishly.\nI see Fat Gum nod, accepting this answer and I abruptly feel annoyed at myself. He gave me a compliment. I know I'm still distrustful of him but he just attempted to believe something good about me and I let my opinion of him control my reaction. I should want him to like me. I do want him to like me.\n"And they're good kids. They're kind and respectful," I add a little begrudgingly seeing as how that's a compliment to him as well. He's their mentor after all.\nHe just nods again, "They are."\nWell now that I'm here and we're talking, I should give him his own credit where it's due. I can be as mature as he is. Probably.\n"Thank you... for helping with that fan before," I say past a tightened jaw. But quickly follow up with, "I could've handled it but he's my senior and I might've gotten fired for being rude on a job so-"\nI shut my mouth. That was more than enough information.\n"I was just getting you for wardrobe," he dismisses my thanks.\nHe's saving me once again. From my own embarrassment. From admitting I needed help. But he knew I needed it. I'm sure he did. Why is he being kind like this? Is he... always kind like this?\nThe impression I've had of him in my head up until this point doesn't match anything I've seen from him today. I'd thought he was overbearing and kind of a jerk. The brief spat we had at the agency was all I'd been able to judge him by.\nNow I'm starting to think that maybe I brought those reactions out in him with the way I treated him. I showed up at his agency demanding to see someone and making brash assumptions about him.\nI think back to the open and excited smile he'd had when I first walked in and how it had slipped from his face as I kept looking at him like a creep.\nDamn. I'm the asshole here...\nI huff out a quick sigh and turn to Fat Gum before I lose my nerve.\n"I'm sorry," I say in a clipped tone, not really looking him in the eye, "...for being a bitch before. I was rude."\nI don't really know what his reaction is because I can't see his face but he doesn't laugh at me at least. More proof of his non-jerk status.\nChancing a glimpse at him, I can see that his face is pensive, once again assessing me like I'm some kind of puzzle he can't quite figure out.\n"You're not. I never thought you were one," he replies and I feel taken aback. How could he not? I yelled at him and practically threatened him in his own office. "You were surprised by me. I get it. I shouldn't have been so short with you. You just got back in town and you wanted to see him. You like Taishiro, right?"\nThis question catches me off guard and my face heats, that same school girl crush type of energy coming over me again.\n"I do like him," I admit shyly, my eyes lowering to the ground.\nThere's a minor pause and his voice sounds a little softer for some reason when he asks, "a lot?"\nGirl, you're so damn obvious.\nI swallow thickly. "Maybe. There are a lot of factors to it..." I reply, suddenly finding the cleaning of non-existent dirt from under my nails to be extremely important.\nFat Gum chuckles. A low sound that sends familiar shivers down my spine and brings my eyes back to his face. That suspicion that had begun budding within me gets a little stronger.\n"I'm sure..." he comments with a wide grin that he hasn't given me since the first time I met him.\nA small weight lifts from my chest upon seeing it, my guilt at how I treated him loosening.\nI see it now. Why Taishiro works with him. They're the same kind of person. Kind, understanding, considerate, kinda funny.\nRealizing that stabs at my heart a little. I do like Taishiro.\n"I want to see him again," I admit, closing my eyes to better remember the feel of his lips on my heated skin.\n"I know," Fat Gum says so damn gently, as if he can relate.\nBut nothing more is said after that and I don't push because I feel like I've just made a lot of headway with him. I've gained more of his respect and he mine. I can't push further unless I want to just go back to square one. So we leave it at that for now.\n--\nThe hunger is really starting to get at me the next day.\nEven after eating a full meal, I'm feeling empty and sluggish. It's taken longer than I expected but my energy is finally running out.\nUnder normal circumstances, I would've gone out to try and pick someone up a day or two ago so I'm really trying my luck waiting around for Taishiro. I don't know what happens when I starve myself of energy. Based on how tired I'm already feeling, I don't think I want to.\nI'll go back to the agency today. I don't know if it's the best idea. Fat Gum might not react kindly to it, much like last time. But I have to give it one more go. He seemed sympathetic the last time we talked. Hopefully he'll understand my being there.\nIf I get turned away and I can't see Taishiro again today, I'll have to go out and find someone else.\nI hate the thought of that. I've never hated the thought of that.\nAs necessary as absorbing energy is, it's never felt like a chore for me. I've enjoyed this lifestyle. I have fun. Even if it weren't for my quirk, I probably would have ended up living much like this in the end.\nNow, picking someone up feels like something I don't look forward to all of a sudden.\nMaybe it's because I still can't erase the memory of that delicious taste on my tongue, knowing that the next won't be quite as savory.\nThat's most likely the case. Who would want to go back to hamburg steak when they've had wagyu after all?\nSo here I am, standing in front of the Fat Gum Hero Agency once again, dressed as cute as I can be without it seeming like I put in a whole bunch of effort. (A difficult skill to master.)\nI don't even know if it's open. I can see through the doors that the receptionist isn't perched at her spot at the front desk.\nSo that must mean...\nI see a figure approaching from the back in the dim light of the morning.\nWell someone's in there at least.\nMy tail flits about impatiently as I squint, trying to make out who it might be.\nLifting my hand to tap on the glass, hoping to get their attention, I halt, my breath catching in my throat.\nA tall, broad figure with mussed blonde hair is making his way toward the front.\nHe's dressed in civilian clothes today instead of a hero costume. A sleeveless grey shirt over black mesh, drawstring shorts. A workout ensemble.\n"Taishiro," I breathe aloud for no one else to hear save my own ears, the name curling within them and burrowing down deep.\nOur eyes meet as he draws closer and I feel frozen in time under that golden gaze, remembering the brush of his fingertips on my waist, the way he smiled at me when he told me I was beautiful. It burns a deep hole of want- need- in my chest, my wings rustling behind me in anxiousness.\nHe reaches the door, our eyes never leaving each other's and I can hardly take a breath when he finally opens it.\n"I was looking for you," I barely wheeze out from the pressure on my chest.\n"I know, I'm sorry," he says in a voice that sounds strained, like he's having difficulty taking deep breaths as well.\nWhy do I feel like I might cry right now? Am I sad? Am I happy? Why do I not know?\n"Come in," he offers, pulling the door completely open and I step inside before he closes it again, turning the lock.\nSo the agency wasn't open...\n"You want anything? Water? Coffee?" he asks me, leading me toward the back of the building, considerate as always.\nThere's a break room back here with vending machines and tables and I sit with him at one of them now.\n"I'm okay," I lie, my tail flicking at it.\nNo I don't want coffee or water, I want you.\nI had questions for him, didn't I? I have a million questions. Why can't I remember even one of them when I'm watching the smooth, beautiful planes of his face?\n"Are you not working today?" I ask apprehensively. Definitely not one of the questions I needed to be asking.\nOne side of his mouth draws up in a lopsided smirk, "No, not open today. I've gotta take some days off."\nHe runs a hand through his thick light blonde locks.\nI want to do that...\n"But you haven't been here," I point out, sort of wishing I'd gotten a drink after all. Then I'd have something to do with my hands.\nHe doesn't answer that directly.\n"I'm sorry for what you went through," he says mildly, "I didn't think- I did want to see you again."\nDid?\n"Not anymore now?" I grit out, fighting this awful clenching in my stomach.\n"No, no!" he corrects quickly, "I do, I just- things happened."\nThe clenching dissipates but I'm still left with more questions than answers.. He's not gonna tell me what things came up, I can already figure that much out. It shouldn't be surprising. Heroes have secrets they have to keep.\nAnother massive hand rakes through his hair, "I wanted to see you- I want to see you but I don't know if it's as easy as I thought it might be."\nMy eyes go to my fingernails, how they're turning white at the edges as my fingers press against the table.\nThis is a rejection. I think.\n"What do you think of Fat Gum?" he asks abruptly and I'm thrown completely off guard. Why bring him up all of a sudden?\n"I don't know," I say honestly, fidgeting in my seat, "We had a spat the first time we met and I thought he was a jerk. But I met with him again and he was kind to me. He was like you. I realized then that I was the jerk. So... I'm sorry if he told you bad things about me."\nHe takes this in, a thoughtful expression on his face.\n"Does he scare you?"\nI frown. These are weird questions to blindside me with, "I don't care who you work for if that's what you're asking. Fat Gum did scare me at first. He's huge after all. But if you're asking if I'm afraid he'll hurt me then the answer is no. He doesn't scare me like that."\nTaishiro nods and considers this as well, his fingers running through his hair once more.\nI can't take it anymore. I lean forward, reaching my hand out and push my fingers through that gorgeous flaxen hair myself.\nHe jumps at my contact and I have to stifle a laugh at the startled expression on his face.\n"I'm sorry," I say lightly, smiling with humor, "I just wanted to touch you."\nSomething burns deep in those bright amber irises then, making heat rise throughout my body and my smile subsides.\nBefore I can even think about what's happening, he's gripping the front of my shirt, hauling me over the table, pushing his lips against mine and his scent crashes into me like a wave.\nThe power behind that lift, picking me up, pulling me as if I weighed no more than a doll does, is fucking hot.\nMy tail immediately whips side to side as I perch on the table, knees bent to either side as I lean into his kiss, my hands freely running through his loose curls now.\nHe makes a light moaning sound and my heart leaps, our tongues twining and dancing together.\nOne of his hands is still fisted in the front of my blouse, pulling me closer as the other that he'd used to grab me under my arm and lift me now travels boldly along my side.\nI whimper and draw closer when he reaches my hip, pulling the bottom of my blouse up, then dipping his fingertips under the waistband of my jeans.\nEvery place his skin meets mine feels like it's lighting up with flame.\nHe breaks our kiss to trail his mouth along my jawline, nipping at my ear.\n"I've been wanting to touch you again since I left your apartment," he sighs, blowing hot breath across the curve of it.\nI arch my back at that, tail curling as the shiver those words elicit reaches the very tip.\nI'm so glad this is a sturdy table. The way I'm leaning almost all of my weight on one side of it just to get even a little closer to him would topple most others.\nJust that one delicious kiss has given me enough energy to feel stronger, fiercer, and hungry for more.\nWithdrawing his fingers from under my waistband, he slides his massive palm along the curve of my ass until he's cupping an entire cheek and squeezes gently.\nI gasp, grasping at the collar of his shirt and pushing back against his hand, demanding more contact. He knows I want more than playful pawing.\n"You said I'd be pleased this time," I hiss at him before claiming his mouth with my own once more and laving the decadent flavor of him from his own tongue.\nThat sensual growl that always makes me so hot for him issues from his throat and he lifts me again, gripping my ass to bring me into his lap.\nA startled yet excited cry is pulled from me and I let out a small giggle when I land straddling his hips.\nHe's still so much taller than me he has to bend his head down to meet mine but he does so readily, not letting go of his firm grip on my ass. His fist in my shirt loosens and travels greedily to my breast, thumb running over my hardened nipple through the thin fabric.\nA desperate moan escapes me. He is so much more bold this time than last. He's not afraid to touch me this time. To control me.\nI can feel his arousal twitch in reaction to the sound and I can't help but grind my hips into his. It's right there, already between my legs. I wish these damnable pants were off so I could be riding him already.\nIt's his turn to moan now, his hand at my ass pushing me harder into the mouth watering thickness in those shorts.\nI don't know who's driving who more crazy. This feels like a dangerous game where we tease at each other until one of us snaps and tears the other's clothes off. I bet I'd win that game, though...\nWe push and pull and move against each other, my panties becoming more soaked by the second, his length throbbing and straining against his shorts in what I can only imagine to be a painful manner. I need him out of them as soon as possible.\nI haven't been keeping my tail in check and have unknowingly allowed it to curl around his arm, the spaded end caressing his bicep playfully.\nHe's just now noticed it and stills for a moment, pulling away to look down at it.\nI freeze, pausing my ministrations and pulling my tail away from him, kicking myself mentally.\nI never know how anyone will react to the tail so I try to keep it as controlled as possible. I've had some be weirded out when they found it snaking around their leg as I rode them.\n"Sorry," I whisper before returning my attention to him and running my tongue along his throat, lapping at the heavenly flavor emanating from him.\n"No," he says roughly, his voice deep with the lust that floods my tongue, "it's okay. I like it. It's beautiful. I want to... touch it."\nI stop again, frowning up at him with uncertainty, "You- you do?"\nHe nods once, still somewhat breathless.\nWell that's new. Maybe he has a thing for tails?\n"You can do what you want to me," I purr, dragging my painfully needy slickness along the length of his arousal once more and I revel in the barely restrained growl that comes from him.\n"Don't tell me that," he groans out, "I want to do a lot to you. Every time I look at you, I think of something new."\nMy heart quickens at those words and a fresh wave of cinnamon reaches my nose. I want him to do everything to me. Just the feel of those enormous hands on my body tells me that. I know he would care for me every step of the way.\nAnd all of a sudden I'm imagining all of the most dirty, obscene, amazing things he might do to me.\n"What do you want to do?" I ask him with undisguised interest, pulling back to look in his eyes.\nThey are smoldering with pent up desire and now they're staring down at me with a far away look, probably thinking of the exact same things I am.\n"Right now?" he finally responds in that deep, velvety voice, "I want to do this."\nHe pulls his hand from my backside, and catches my tail, which had already begun its lazy swishing side to side, his fist wrapping easily around the small circumference.\nI gasp, my eyes widening at him in genuine shock when he slowly yet firmly tugs on my tail.\nHis grip loosens as he watches my reaction, "Does that hurt? Do you not like it?"\nMy heart aches when he asks me things like that. He always checks to make sure everything is okay. He never wants to hurt me unless that's what I'm asking for. It makes me wonder if I could try new things I've never done before with him eventually.\nEventually?\nIs eventually a good idea? Is next time a good idea?\nI can't think of those things. I want to focus on Taishiro now while I have him.\n"No," I reassure him, "No, it didn't hurt. It's just- not many people want to touch my tail. It's more like something they wish they could ignore."\nThe pressure of his powerful fist returns to the base of my tail and he's pulling at it once more, then cupping my ass with his other hand to push me back up, grinding my aching slit along his hardness the entire way.\nI bite my lip and let out a tiny whimper every time he does this.\n"I hope you're planning on fucking me this time," I pant out fiercely, dragging my nails down his still clothed chest.\nHis eyes darken, pupils dilating rapidly as his breathing picks up.\n"That's what you want?" he asks, as if his intention of doing so weren't already obvious in those molten orbs.\n"What I want," I grunt out, shuddering as he roughly pulls me by my tail down his length again, "is to already be fucking you."\nHe goes deathly still, blinking at me as he searches my eyes while I stare back at him from under my lashes.\nThen he's exploding with action, gripping my hips to lift me and set my feet on the floor. My god, he makes me hot as fuck when he picks me up like it's nothing.\nI slip quickly out of my flats as he deftly unbuttons, then unzips my jeans, shoving them down my legs, careful to pull my tail from the altered slot I get put in every piece of clothing I own. I shiver as he loosely strokes a hand down to the very tip before moving on.\nNow his fingers are at the buttons on my blouse, unfastening those in record time as I shimmy the rest of the way out of my pants.\n"Were you trying to tease me as much as possible by making it this hard to get you out of these clothes?" he growls, wrestling with the last button of my blouse before hastily ripping that away from me as well.\nI hadn't even been thinking about it. I was just trying to look enticing enough to get to this point at all. I'm not telling him that, though.\n"You have to work for what you want," I purr, tail lightly brushing along his calf as he sweeps his hungry eyes over my disrobed form, only clothed in a dark blue bra and thong.\nHe doesn't hesitate when he closes the distance between us again, lowering his mouth to mine in a fiery kiss.\nThe fingers of one hand dig into my hair as he lets the other glide down my back to settle at the bottom of my ass, thick digits probing lower and lower until I gasp and writhe under his touch when they brush against the drenched fabric covering my sex.\nTwo fingers hook into my thong, dragging along the thin strip of cloth all the way to the top, then all the way back down, pulling another tiny cry from me when the warmth of them slides between my folds.\nI break our kiss, panting heavily as I push my hips against those brazen digits, practically begging to feel them inside of me.\nI'm afraid he'll make me wait, knowing that he could tease me and make me sob and beg for him if he wanted to. When he pulls his fingers away, I whine wantonly, thinking that's exactly what he intends to make me do.\nBut instead he's turning me so my back faces him and pushing at my back between my wings so I'm bending over for him, my hands on the table in front of me now.\nThen, those fingers are back and just as audacious as ever as he slips my thong down my legs, dropping it to the floor, and slides them along my folds once more.\n"Taishiro," I whimper, grinding myself into that heated caress.\nThis time he obliges, pushing both fingers inside me at once, easily gliding in to his second knuckle and the carnal sound he makes when he feels my walls contract around him sets my entire body aflame.\n"Oh... fuck...," he barely breathes out and I hear him swallow thickly before trying to speak again, "You are... so wet."\nI move my hips against him, my tail curling around his arm once more and he hisses in a breath.\n"Weren't you going to fuck me?" I tease, slowly working myself up and down his fingers that have stilled- I think possibly because he's trying to keep from cumming in his shorts right now.\nHis breaths come heavily, blowing hot streams of air along my back and wings.\nHe abruptly withdraws his fingers, leaving me feeling empty and cold.\n"Yeah," he says in a dark, sultry voice and I hear fabric rustling behind me, "I am."\nAnd I jolt when he wraps a strong hand around my tail again, yanking me backward a couple inches to meet the hot, throbbing length of his arousal, finally freed from his shorts.\nTaishiro groans animalistically as he guides me by my tail along his thick shaft, twitching when his broad tip reaches my opening.\n"You want this?" he asks, letting the hand not gripping my tail slide down the soft skin of my back until he pulls it away, most definitely to hold his cock at the ready to fuck my brains out the second I give the word.\n"You know I want this," I answer, tilting my hips higher for easier access.\nHe blows out a massive breath before saying, "You're so damn gorgeous." Making my wings flare with pride and affection just before he pushes into me.\nI'm so wet that he effortlessly sinks deep into my cunt, filling me completely and I cry out, not even caring about the volume because I know he probably wants to hear it all.\nThere's only the barest of pauses as he shifts his hand to grasp my hip, then he's rocking his hips backward just to push into me again and that animal he cages within himself is let loose once more.\nTaishiro grunts ferociously, picking up speed at a breakneck pace.\nHe knows exactly how I want him as he slams into me, his thrusts just as hard, if not harder than the night he pushed his cock all the way down my throat. His fingers dig almost bruisingly into my hip as that hand at my tail yanks it back every time he thrusts into me.\nIt hurts a little, but I love that it hurts. That pleasure tinged with an edge of pain makes me feel wilder and more needy.\nI can't kiss him. I can't even lick him anywhere but I'll be damned if I'm even a little bit upset about it as his luscious cock drills into me over and over, plunging straight to my core and leaving me dizzy with pleasure.\n"Oh- my god... you feel... so amazing," he groans, through his vigorous thrusts.\nI can hardly even respond, my fingers digging into the table, trying to just hold onto my sanity. I don't even have to scream at him to go faster or fuck me harder. He's right where he needs to be. He knows he can push as hard as he wants.\n"Kiss me," I demand breathlessly, "Kiss my mouth while you fuck my pussy."\nHe acquiesces without question, not missing a beat as he pulls back to release my tail and flips me to face him, using that thirst-inducing strength to lift me swiftly back onto the table.\nOur mouths meet again in a passionate kiss full of my desperate craving for his lust and his intense desire to please me.\nHe leans me back onto the chilled table, softly pressing my back against it, making sure my wings are smoothed out, his mouth never leaving mine. Then he scoots me all the way to the edge, lifting my legs to rest on his shoulders and leaning his weight on one arm as the other hand guides his cock back into my waiting heat.\nHe lets out a long sigh as he pushes back into me, as if just these few seconds were long enough to make him miss my warmth painfully.\nThen he goes right back to fucking me senseless, this time with the added bonus of tasting the delicious desire that pours out of him.\nNow I can start moving against him too, rocking my hips up to meet his in tandem and I can tell he loves this new development.\nBreaking our kiss, he stares drunkenly down at my flushed face through half-lidded eyes.\n"I- dreamed- of you- like this..." he pants out between fevered thrusts, "every.... day..."\nA feeling curls in my chest. One that I haven't felt in a long long time.\nHe's just talking dirty to me, telling me how he thought of fucking me every day. Why is it affecting me like this? Why am I enjoying it so much?\n"Taishiro," I whisper, a whine creeping in at the end, "Fuck me every day. If it's like this, I want you every day."\nIf it's possible, I'd say his pumping becomes even more frantic as he sighs out, "I want to... I want to so- fucking- bad."\nThis way we're talking is... not how I usually talk dirty to people. But it still thrills me from head to toe. I want more.\nThe table I'm laying on I had once thought was so sturdy is shaking with the power of his hips slamming into mine. This man is a fucking monster. My monster.\n"Aiko," he groans, golden eyes still watching my face with rapture, "I'm- gonna- cum..."\nHis muscles are tensing and I can tell he's near his limit.\n"I want you... to cum first," he grits out, slowing minutely, trying to stem the rise of his orgasm, "I promised."\nHe did promise... I'm surprised that matters to him right now, though.\nI push his hand down, guiding him to where I want him to touch and he does so eagerly, circling my clit with his thumb, then stroking at it slowly.\nMy back arches off the table. I'm so sensitive and ready for release. I didn't realize how close I really was.\nMy orgasm rises up so fast with him pounding into me and the way his thumb moves across my clit, I'm almost taken completely off guard.\n"Yes, Taishiro!" I cry loud enough for it to echo around the room, "Fuck yes! Fuck me just like that!"\nThe world turns to indescribable shades of colors as my body tenses, my walls clenching around him and my wings fighting to be free to catch the air in their tiny sails, though I feel like they might actually be able to with how I'm soaring through the stars.\nTaishiro picks up his speed again and I open my eyes once more to watch his euphoric face as he quickly finds his own release, pulling out of me to shoot his hot seed all across my abdomen.\nI can't resist the craving and drag his trembling lips to mine to taste the last waves of his euphoria. It's as intoxicating as a drug to me and also I don't mind the way his lips meld against mine in a more gentle kiss now, the frenzy dissipating.\n"I... have never done anything like that before," he puffs out, his breaths slowly returning to a normal speed.\n"You've... never had sex?" I ask teasingly. It's damn near impossible that he hasn't. Not with talent like that.\nHe looks up at me, those golden orbs glittering with faux outrage, "Does it seem that way to you?"\nI flash him a flirtatious smile that he returns with that silly grin of his. How is someone so gigantic so adorable?\nAfter a long moment of relaxation in each other's arms, Taishiro stands again, readjusting his shorts and pulling his shirt off, which now has a large wet spot along the front where I pulled him down into his own cum.\nI'm not sorry, though. It was worth it. And he doesn't seem to mind as he uses it to wipe the rest off of my belly, running his large, rough palm across the silky skin there for a second to make sure he got it all.\n"Fat?" I hear a call from the front of the agency and we both jump, immediately springing to action.\nI'm still practically naked!\nNow I'm really regretting my outfit. I'll never get everything back on in time before whoever is at the front follows the light on back here.\nScrambling, I decide my pants are most important and shake them out, shoving my legs through the leg holes and zipping them up hastily.\nI stuff my thong into my back pocket and have just thrown my blouse on, buttons still undone, when the voice comes again, just around the corner, "Fat-sensei?"\nSuneater steps into the doorway of the room, dressed in casual clothes and freezes, his eyes going wide as he easily takes in our disheveled appearances and the fact that I'm holding my shirt together.\n"Oh!" he turns his back, "Oh. Sorry... I didn't know you were here..."\nWith his back turned, I speedily fasten the buttons of my blouse and make sure the rest of my clothing isn't unbuttoned or out of order.\n"It's okay," I tell the awkward hero, although I can tell he's probably not going to be turning toward us again any time soon with the way he's trembling, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to intrude. I'll go."\n"No," Taishiro says abruptly, "You don't have to. You can stay if you want."\nI can see Suneater's head turn, casting an appraising eye on me now.\n"No, I should go," I say uncomfortably, feeling awkward that I was just caught half-dressed by one of Fat Gum's pupils with another employee. And after helping him through his stage fright and everything... I really hope he doesn't judge me for this...\nTaishiro looks rather disappointed at my rejection. But can't he see how ill at ease Suneater is? He's the one who works here. I'm the one who doesn't belong.\n"I'll come see you again," Taishiro says abruptly, "It might be a little bit but.. You don't have to come here. I'll come see you."\nGoddammit, he always gets me with these sudden declarations and I always end up saying-\n"Okay," I murmur, sliding on my flats again and practically bolting for the door.\nI pad my way down the hall and am halfway toward the exit when I hear them striking up a conversation, getting the feeling I should listen. After all, I didn't end up with a single answer to any question I had intended to ask. Maybe some will be answered now. Like where Taishiro was this whole time.\n"You told her?" Suneater's subdued voice carries down the hall from the room I just exited.\nI still and my breaths go shallow. Tell me? I wait and listen for more information. Tell me what?\n"I was about to," Taishiro's richer voice comes now, "I tried and then-"\nHe cuts off and a couple seconds later Suneater picks up, "No. Please. That's good enough, thanks."\nThere is silence between them for a good handful of seconds, then Suneater speaks up again, "And now what?"\n"Now I don't know. She's so hard to read," Taishiro grumbles, "But I have to tell her. I don't want to just keep secrets, even if she won't see me anymore after I do."\nWhy wouldn't I want to see him? Has he done something? What could he need to be telling me? Maybe it's what I've been suspecting about him in relation to Fat Gum since yesterday...\nThis raises more questions for me than gives me answers. I almost want to walk back in there and ask him right now but I doubt he'd like that I was listening in.\n"I'm exhausted," he says with a long yawn, "That fight yesterday took a lot out of me. Maybe I shouldn't have pushed it with a workout this morning."\nDammit! I thought I'd had more control this time. How am I sucking so much energy from him? I'm hurting him...\n"Let's go get some takoyaki," Taishiro's voice comes again and I jump. If they're going to get food, they'll be coming my way soon.\nI bolt for the door, being quiet as possible, and step out into the clear, sweltering light of the day.\nMaking my way down the street, I feel somehow unsatisfied despite the fact that I got to see him again and am no longer starved. I'm satiated for now and by the feel of it, I should be for a good long while. Something is pulling at me, though, wanting to go back there. Yes, part of it is the many questions I didn't get the chance to ask. Another part is something else. I think I'm upset I didn't get to spend more time with him.\nBut that's my own fault. I chose to leave when Suneater showed up. Taishiro would've probably let me stay. He looked like he wanted me to stay.\nMy tail flits back and forth as I consider what I'm really doing. If I see him again and I end up taking too much energy, he'll probably figure it out. Then, he won't have to worry about me not wanting to see him, he'll run off. History has proven that to be the case.\n

Chapter 3:\nA camera shutter clicks rapidly as I kneel in the sand, holding two strings of my bikini bottom up as though I've just untied it. It's a classic pose for swimsuit magazines.\n"Gorgeous, Aiko!" the photographer yells, "Give me those bedroom eyes! You're being flirty! Show me some wing action!"\nI lower my lashes just a tad and put a tiny playful smirk on my lips, bending my wings forward as if to caress my arms with the tips.\n"Ooohhh! Perfect, darling!" he shouts again, taking more shots.\nThe sun is really beating down on me and I can feel my skin heating up under those intense rays. I think I might be sweating profusely but the waves lapping at my skin make it hard to tell for sure.\n"We're good, darling," he finally says, handing his camera off to his assistant. He approaches me as I tie up my bottoms again and I look up when I'm sure they're secured.\n"That went well," I tell him, pushing myself up to a stand. The poor guy comes up to my chin.\n"Yeah, it was great! I don't know how the editors are going to be able to choose from your shots. It's such a pleasure watching you work."\n"Thanks, Jared," I say, wings flaring with pride.\nHe's American but he's one of the best swimsuit photographers in the world and travels all over shooting spreads for magazines.\n"Have you considered my offer from last time?" he asks with pointed interest.\nI sigh inwardly, putting a hand to my hip, "I don't know. I'm still not sure."\nA couple months ago, Jared asked me to come to America for some shoots for lingerie designers there. America is a whole new ballgame though. The models there are on a different level. I've been safe modelling here for all of my career. The thought of changing it up now and possibly failing is terrifying.\n"Well, you have my number, Aiko," he reminds me, "call me- soon- if you decide you want to. I have the perfect thing for you."\n"I will," I nod at him, giving a polite bow, and move off to allow for the next model and a change of scenery, trudging back up the beach.\n"Hey, I heard you did a commercial last week," Mizuki, another girl from my agency says, handing me a water bottle as I head under the blessed shade of the tent set up for us to rest. She's a bit of a gossip, it's no wonder to me that she's heard about it.\n"Yeah, it wasn't too bad," I tell her with a shrug, "I had one line and the rest was looking pretty, handing the heroes energy drinks."\nMizuki scrunches her face up like it's the most distasteful thing she's ever heard of. I can't blame her. My face would've been the same only a couple weeks ago.\nShe looks glossy from head to toe, subtle sunscreen probably completely covering her porcelain white skin. Too bad it still makes her have that odd sheen to her. Guess they'll fix that in retouching. I feel a little bad for her. My light tan skin is just darkening in this sunlight.\nHer smirk grows, "Is this your contingency plan when you retire soon?"\nI know she's mostly joking. After all, she's only a year younger than I am. If I'm headed to retirement soon, then so is she.\nI throw a superficial glare her way, "I'm twenty-fucking-four, bitch."\nShe laughs lightheartedly and pats my arm with her- ew- greasy hand before moving off to take her turn in front of the camera, "Don't let that bitterness give you early wrinkles."\nI can't help but roll my eyes. This is how my "friendships" with most other models go. We joke with each other about looking old and retiring... in our twenties...\nIt's no wonder I'm not all too close with any of them.\nI chug half the contents of the water bottle and let out a satisfied "ahhh" afterward. This heat is ridiculous! Summer should be coming to a close soon but we're still getting scorching days like this. I can't wait to start pulling out the long sleeves and cardigans.\n"Jared ask about America again?" my manager asks, walking up to the tent having just ended a call.\n"Yes," I sigh, pouring a bit of that ice cold water into my hands so I can press it to my face and neck.\n"I think you should take it," she says with a shrug, "It could be fun. You could love America."\n"Yeah. Sure." I respond smartly, turning away so she doesn't see my mocking face.\nShe knows I'm being facetious, though. "Why not? You too smitten with your hero boyfriend now? Can't go a month without seeing him?"\nMy head snaps in her direction at that, "I don't have a boyfriend. I dont have boyfriends."\n"No? You just did that commercial and completely stopped talking about the Fat Gum agency, why? Because you're just over it now?" she gives me an unbelieving look over her thick-rimmed glasses, "Which one was he? The shy boy? The big guy?"\nShe almost got me. She almost made me say "neither," but I hold my glare on her, "You know I don't have boyfriends. I'm not interested in any of that."\nHer stare doesn't change either though. She knows when I'm not being completely truthful.\n"And if I told you that you just got a call from a hero at that agency wanting to speak with you?" she asks, holding up my phone with a smirk.\nI jolt upright, knocking the water bottle over as I do, "And? Who was it? What did they say?"\nIt's been over a week since I last saw Taishiro. "Saw"... I did a lot more than seeing.\nHe said he would come around again but it would be a while. I don't know how long "a while" is, though, so I left my number on my door when I left for Tokyo.\nThe moment the words leave my mouth I know I've been duped because her expression of pure victory is brutal.\n"You're fired," I tell her, turning my back on her with a whip of my tail to head off and change.\nShe just laughs because she knows I don't mean it.\n--\nIt's now been two weeks and two days since I was last with Taishiro.\nI got back from Tokyo five days ago and still no word.\nI still go about my business because I'm still feeling fine. The energy is running a little low but I manage and I'm definitely not pacing my apartment sometimes trying to figure out why he hasn't come by yet...\n--\nTwo days after that, I'm starting to feel truly sluggish again and I'm wondering if I should go to the agency after all.\nBut Taishiro told me not to. He said he'd come see me. If I show up again unannounced, I don't know how he'd react or if he would even be there... I didn't think it would take this long, though.\nMaybe he's changed his mind... Maybe I should go find someone tonight...\nNo. I can wait another day. I'm fine.\n--\nA day after that and I think I might've made a mistake.\nI should've gone out after all...\nI feel so tired, I just stay in bed all day and conserve my energy.\nI don't think I can even go out and be in any presentable state to attract someone.\n--\nWhen I wake up the next day, I feel mildly surprised that I even woke up at all.\nI want to go back to sleep right away but there's some kind of self-preservation in me that says I can't do that.\nI don't have a choice, I have to go to the agency. I dont have the ability to pick up someone new right now.\nPlease let Taishiro be there...\nMaking myself a large cup of coffee to go, I head out of the apartment, sans makeup, sans cute hairstyle, in just some leggings and a tank top.\nI take the train to the other side of town, keeping myself upright through practically chugging my coffee every time my eyelids start feeling heavy.\nWhen I finally make it to the station, I'm out of coffee and I have to focus almost entirely on putting one foot in front of the other until I see that familiar Fat Gum-shaped building in front of me at last.\nI feel so relieved when I enter those doors; like I'm safe; like I'll be okay.\nThe receptionist isn't at her desk again and I wonder at that for only a moment. They're definitely open, I was able to walk through the front doors.\n"Hello?" I call weakly, not even recognizing the sound of my own voice, "Taishiro? Fat Gum?"\nNo one answers as I walk further in. Where are they? Could they be out patrolling?\n"Suneater! Red! Steel!" I cry out, but it's hardly audible in the room I'm standing in.\nBreathing heavily, I make for the stairs, taking them one painstaking step at a time.\nI'm hoping Fat Gum is in his office. It's my last ditch plan. Hopefully he can help me find Taishiro or get me someone to feed me at the least. I don't care who knows my quirk right now, if I go to sleep again, I think I might die.\nAs I reach the door and push it open to find no one, I want to cry but I don't even have the energy for that.\nI fall to my knees on the cold floor in front of his desk, my torso soon to follow and I can't get up after that.\nI'm stuck laying on my side staring at the desk, fighting for consciousness every second.\nThis isn't what I wanted...\nI don't know how long it's been when I hear someone far away- downstairs I think- but I'm still just barely clinging to consciousness.\nThen, someone is making their way up the stairs, the sounds echoing in the hallway. I'm focusing all of my effort on mentally crying out for those feet to find me.\nI feel footsteps on the floor.\nThey're large with long strides. Could it be Taishiro? I need it to be him.\n"Aiko," a tender voice says, the footsteps quickening, reaching me now, and someone leaning close.\nI moan because that's all my energy allows as they roll me onto my back. I feel so awful and out of it, I can hardly see straight.\nWhy did I allow this to happen?\n"Aiko, what happened? Are you hurt?" the voice sounds scared, worried.\n"Help... me..." I say to the massive form swimming before my eyes. I'm so desperate. I'm afraid I'm dying. How can a quirk do this to someone?\nHe leans closer and I smell the clean scent of whatever soap it is he uses. It's so comforting...\n"What do you need?" he asks, panic creeping up in his voice.\nI feel a giant hand at my hair, brushing it back, away from my face.\n"My tongue..." I breathe out, unconsciousness looming closer. I'm so so tired....\n"Your tongue? You need something on your tongue? Is it in your purse?"\nI can see the huge form sit up and I think he might be looking for my purse. His head is swiveling around urgently.\nMoaning again to get his attention, I feel such immense frustration. If he could just come a little closer....\nThe gigantic, clean-smelling man leans close again.\n"What is it," he croaks out desperately.\nI have to try to communicate better.\nI pull every ounce of energy I have left together to say, "Touch my tongue.... no glove."\n"That'll help you?" he asks, hastily pulling his gloves off, "Is this something to do with your quirk?"\nBut I can't answer him anymore. My eyes close at last. My consciousness is fading.\nPlease help me...\nI don't even care who it is anymore. Anything- anyone will help.\nHis giant hand is at my jaw then, pulling my mouth open and I want to cry. He gets it. He'll help me. I'm not going to die...\nI hear a shaky breath and feel it blow across my face, he's so close.\nThen I feel a finger, large enough to be the size of two of a normal person's press down on my tongue.\nI breathe a tiny, infinitesimal sigh of relief. Nothing's happening yet. He's too worried and scared to feel anything but those emotions for me right now. Which is heartwarming in and of itself I suppose.\nBut when I close my mouth around that finger and move my tongue slowly, exhaustedly along it, I hear a mostly silent intake of breath. Then the smallest note of cinnamon reaches my nose and the rough pad on my tongue becomes slightly more savory.\nI already feel his energy seeping into me but it's slow, just a trickle.\nI wait for it to peter out before I test my strength once more.\nI'm able to graze my teeth along the digit, my tongue pressing more firmly to it now.\n"Aiko..." he breathes, his voice less worried, deeper, "Is this helping?"\nI have enough energy to give a tiny nod and pull in another lung full of his sweet aroma now shining through the clean one.\nBetter. So much better.\nMoaning, I coax more of that finger into my mouth, able to properly glide my tongue over it now. The taste...\nA small grunt comes from above me and I'm able to open my eyes again, although they're still unfocused and my eyelids are droopy.\nHe's so close to me, I think I can feel the heat emanating from him.\nSighing again, I release his finger and he quickly pulls it away, his breaths shorter, more shallow.\n"Did that help? Are you okay?" he asks me again.\nI don't answer him though, I'm not done. I need more.\nDigging my fingers into his jacket hood and gripping it, I pull his face to mine roughly, finding his lips with ease.\nThey're so pillowy and soft as I run my tongue across them and he gasps in surprise. But I know it's not an upset surprise as cinnamon floods my nose, making my hunger spike.\nI take this opportunity to push my tongue into his mouth, probing, toying with his own.\nFinally he responds, tongue moving against mine, his desire- and therefore his flavor- growing stronger.\nAnd I know it for sure now. I know this taste. I know this smell. I've missed it and craved it for days on end.\nTaishiro...\nMy energy is steadily growing as I stroke my tongue along his, pulling his delicious essence into my mouth and I begin to writhe under his massive body, pulse quickening.\nI push his hood back, hands brushing through that soft, thick hair and I get a thrill as he softly groans when I roll my hips upward, clearly in desire of contact.\nI smile against his mouth as he gasps for breath.\n"Aiko..." he whispers, "I-"\nI don't let him finish, pulling him back down to meet my lips once more.\nI want him to touch me, to fuck me, to want me more.\nHis hand is already resting delicately at my neck and I take it in both of my smaller ones, leading it gradually to my breast and I can hear his breathing pick up as I do, his desire growing stronger still.\nIt pours out of him like a waterfall when my breast fills his palm and he slowly kneads the ample flesh.\nAnother moan escapes my lips, this time one of pleasure and not desperation, as I pull back from him again.\n"Taishiro," I groan, bucking my hips again. I want him on top of me. I want him inside of me.\nHe pauses then abruptly pulls away, eliciting a little grunt of disappointment from me.\n"Aiko," I hear him say gently, his breaths labored and jittery, "I don't think you want this."\n"Yes I do," I whine, needy for his attention, "I want you to fuck me Taishiro. Please. I need it."\nI try to pull him down to me again but he doesn't budge, even as I pull with all the strength I can muster.\nA hard breath blows out of him and he backs up even further, even though his scent slightly intensifies. Why? How was that not an answer he wanted to hear?\n"Aiko," he says again, his voice clearer this time, "Look at me."\n"I am looking at you," I grumble, but it's true that my eyes have still been fuzzy up until this point. I'd been losing control of all of my senses.\nA large hand cups my face, smooshing my cheeks a bit to get me to focus in on the face in front of me.\nMy vision starts to clear. I've absorbed enough to function again, although I'd say I need more in the next day or two to keep myself from starving again.\nAs focus returns steadily to my eyes, I try to keep them trained on the figure looming over me. Why does Taishiro think I wouldn't want him?\nBut I freeze as a rounded, chubby face comes into view, looking down at me with deep concern.\nCrying out, I push back, scooting as far as I can, but my limbs are still sluggish and I nearly fall over as I attempt such abrupt movement.\n"Aiko," Fat Gum reaches a massive hand out to catch me as I nearly collapse back onto the floor.\nI'm still weak. I need to give my body a few minutes to restore proper function to all of my limbs. All I can do is sit here and suffer through this intense embarrassment and shame.\n"Fat... Gum..." I feel my face heating and tears spring to my eyes. Huh. I can cry now. "I'm so sorry. I thought you were- I was delirious! I couldn't see!"\n"About that..." he says sternly, "I need to know why you weren't okay before and why you are now. Don't worry about anything else."\nHow can he say that? I just... assaulted him!\n"Why are you being so nice?!" I snap, blinking rapidly to push back my tears, "I just- I just..."\n"Aiko," he says, making sure I can sit up on my own before releasing me, "Is it okay if I call you that?"\n"You just saved my life so I guess," I grumble, just focusing on staying upright. I really might have almost just died there...\n"Okay, see I need to know why that is," he says kindly, "You didn't hurt me. You were never forcing me to do anything. If anything we're even on blame. But I don't think you're comfortable even talking about it so let's move on to what's most important right now: Why were you laying on the floor looking like you were dying?"\nI clench my jaw trying to fight back my own frustration with myself. He's right. And now I have to tell him something I've never told anyone. Only one other person even has an idea I have this quirk...\n"I was starving," I reply solemnly.\nHis brows knit together at that, "You didn't look emaciated. You don't look like you're starving now."\nMy eyes move to his and I have to search them for a long moment. Can I trust him truly? Only a few weeks ago, I was yelling at him in this office and he was kicking me out. Now I'm contemplating telling him my most private secret.\n"I was starving for energy," I reply, picking at my nails to distract myself as I launch into an explanation of my quirk and how it works.\n"That's... that's a pretty incredible quirk," he says with amazement.\nI look at him like he's out of his mind. He must be.\n"Were you not even listening? Do you not remember what just happened? My quirk almost killed me! I need to absorb sexual energy to survive."\nHe nods, agreeing with me, "Yes, but as I told you before, you never got formal training on this. How did you survive as a child with this quirk?"\n"It didn't exist as a child. I had my wings and my tail. I was registered as a demon quirk. I didn't know I had this ability until I had sex for the first time."\n"So you're saying you survived without this energy before then. And, I assume, after then too. You didn't start suddenly needing this energy as much as you do now after your first time," he points out.\nI have to think back on this. He's right. "No, I... just started needing it more and more until I got to this point."\nHe nods again, his brow furrowed as he stares at the floor, deep in thought.\nHe looks kinda... cute like that. Like a frustrated hamster or something, especially in his mask.\nI have to push that thought away. How rude is it to think of a grown man as cute?\n"Have you ever tried to control it?" he asks abruptly and I look at him confused. He clarifies, "Have you ever tried to not absorb it from someone while... you know."\nNo. He is cute. There's not a better word for his shyness about this topic.\n"While having sex?" I ask with an arched brow.\nIs it wrong that I'm entertained at his slightly flushed cheeks when he answers, "Yes. That."?\n"No. Why would I ever purposely not absorb it? I need it."\nHe runs a hand through his light blonde hair, a bit mushed down on his head due to the hood that had been over it.\n"Just to see if you could control your quirk. Otherwise, you're letting it take control of you," he explains, "It's difficult for you that it was impossible to know this quirk's full potential at an early age. You're given counselling and ample opportunity to figure it out. But since this was developed or discovered so late, you weren't able to."\nHe's silent again, going back to his angry hamster face and I just watch him puzzle this out. Why is he so interested?\n"Have you ever tried to take more? Not just what comes from them willingly, but tried to pull more unwillingly?"\nHonestly, I'd never even thought of it. I never thought it might even be possible. But now that I am thinking of it, it seems dangerous.\n"No," I answer seriously, "and I don't want to. You said yourself I have no control and no training. I could kill someone."\n"You could," he agrees and there is no "but" statement after that.\nI feel stronger now. My limbs seem to have regained their strength and mobility and I push off the floor, attempting to stand.\nNot bad. I only feel a little wobbly.\n"So now that I answered all your questions, now what?" I wonder, watching him rise as well, as gracefully as the first time I'd seen. He does not move like he's carrying a lot of weight...\n"Now I think you should properly register your quirk," he suggests and terror rips through me like a bolt of lightning.\n"No," I say quietly but firmly, "No one knows about this. I can't have everyone knowing that I'm like... this."\nFat Gum reaches a hand out to me but I jerk away quickly. I'm not letting him take me.\n"Aiko, that's the whole point," he says calmly, ignoring my violent reaction and the fact that my wings are spreading out in preparation to flee. "Your quirk is unique. But other people may end up having it and they might want or need the information you have about it. You could save people's lives. What if your future children- "\n"I'm never having children," I stop him rudely, "I'm never doing that to them. No one else should have this quirk, most especially my children."\nHis face doesn't change but I see the most minute shift in his eyes.\nHe must feel bad for me. He saw how I treated his pupils. He knows I like mentoring. He must've figured out I like kids. But he must also know it's not his business because he moves on without commentary.\n"And if you have siblings or cousins? You said your father was a one night stand with your mother. Doesn't that seem familiar?"\nI've considered the possibility that I might have siblings. It's a high likelihood, especially if my father was at all like me but also a prick who didn't use protection.\nCould I be leaving those siblings to suffer? To die?\nShit. He's right again. Why does he always make me realize what an asshole I am without ever saying a single bad thing about me?\nI fold my wings back in and relax my stance, crossing my arms over my chest.\n"What if they look at me like I'm a freak?" I ask, uncertain and looking for any reason to get out of this, "What if they treat me like... I'm gross or something?"\n"It's not like you'll have a sign on you saying what your quirk is. No one has to know in your personal life unless you want them to," he tries to reassure me.\n"I kinda meant the people who work at the Quirk Registration Office," I amend, chewing at my lip.\nFat Gum looks like he sympathizes with me.\n"I could go with you to register... if you want," he offers, extending a hand to exemplify this offer more as a gesture than asking me to take it.\nI frown at that gesture. It's so familiar. Some weird deja vu...\nI eye his proffered hand- still ungloved from earlier- and then the sincerity on his face.\nIf I had to make a choice between being alone and having someone with me to register, I would prefer not to face their judgement alone; especially if that person is a giant hero who seems to be well respected.\nMy tail is twitching nervously as I take my first measured steps toward the door after my collapse and turn back to him to make sure he's following.\n"Fine."\n

Chapter 4:\nI'm so tempted to chew on my thumbnail right now.\nMy wings are quivering with some of the worst nerves I've ever felt. I think I might throw up. Now that I feel more energetic I'm regretting that coffee immensely.\nClenching my hand into a fist to keep the temptation away, I eye the broad, round back I'm following.\nFat Gum is a little hunched over the humongous tray of takoyaki he stopped to get as we started our journey. The man can really put those little fried balls away.\nI'm still a little wobbly. I wish I could just hop up and ride on his shoulders or something. I bet it would be soft...\nI am also clearly still a bit delirious.\nThe Quirk Registration Office isn't far from the agency it seems. I still don't really know this part of town but Fat Gum led me away from the train station so the office can't be far.\nThinking back on what just occurred in his office, I'm still pretty mortified. I can't even begin to fathom how he's handling it so well. I mean... he said he didn't do things against his will. He has to be pretty embarrassed too, right? He just... reacted to me. It can happen to anyone. I can't blame him. I put more blame on myself despite the fact that he told me not to.\nI try to shove the hazy memory of his hand at my breast away. I'd thought he was Taishiro. Why would he taste and smell so similar?\nI may have mistaken who he was with my eyes but I know I made no mistake with his scent and his taste. Those are distinct things for every person I've ever been with. How could he share them with Taishiro? It makes no sense.\nBut my suspicions from a couple weeks back resurface in my brain suddenly. I don't know why I haven't recalled it up until this moment but the puzzle pieces are falling together now.\nThey work at the same place and wear the same(-ish?) costume, they have some similar mannerisms and even their voices are very similar. Blonde hair, ridiculously tall, yellow eyes, big goofy smiles...\nThey're... brothers. Or at least some kind of relation. Brothers seems most likely, though. Possibly twins even. I'm willing to bet that if Fat Gum were thinner, he'd look very similar to Taishiro.\nI've never been with people who are related to each other as far as I'm aware. It's more than a little likely they would taste and smell the same.\nI feel more embarrassment than ever as I think about the ramifications of my actions toward Fat Gum today. Oh holy All Might on a cracker... I told Taishiro's brother I wanted him to fuck me!\nI have to resist the urge to cover my blazing hot face with my hands. I don't know if I can ever look either of them in the eye again! What if I have to face them both at the same time at some point? I pray to all that is sweet and holy and good on this earth that I will never have to.\nA small part of me wonders why no one told me they were related. But, at the same time, why would they? When has anything like that even come up in conversation?\nI'm reminded again of the fact that Red was about to say something about Taishiro and Fat Gum cut him off. That was what he was about to say. That Fat Gum knew him personally, closely. He could easily get ahold of him. And Fat Gum had stopped him because he didn't approve of me; he didn't like me; he was protecting his brother.\nIt all makes so much sense now...\n"Here we are," he says and I jolt back to the present.\nFat Gum is strolling up to the door and pulls it open when he reaches it, motioning with the tray for me to go inside.\nI'm still hesitant, standing motionless on the sidewalk as I chew my lip again, trying to decide if I should really go in. Once I do, there's no turning back.\nI look up into Fat Gum's face and he's waiting patiently, understanding gracing his rounded features.\nWhen I meet his eyes, I have to look away again. Now that I've realized it, I'm seeing how they are so like Taishiro's and my embarrassment peaks once more.\nI'm never going to let myself live this down. I'm gonna stay up until all hours of the night as I recall putting his hand on my boob and begging him to fuck me. Oh god, please make it stop!\nI hurry in, mind made up and also unwilling to stay under that probing stare any longer.\nOnce inside, we're greeted by someone working at the front and my nerves rattle around in me once more. I'm here now. I have to register this quirk.\n"Take a number, then fill the form out so we'll know how to service you when it's your turn," the employee at the desk explains and I nod, swallowing the bile rising up in my throat.\nLooking out at the office, it looks pretty boring for a place that could potentially ruin my life. A large amount of space is set up for backed wooden benches to sit and wait on. There seem to be a fair amount of people sitting at them.\nThe rest of the area is set up with desks that people are being called to when their number comes up.\nThe number I get looks to be about 12 away from what is up on the wall right now.\n"We could be here a while," Fat says with a "yikes" expression.\n"Well we don't have to do it today I guess." I shrug and go to leave but he puts a hand to my back, keeping me from turning.\n"No, Suneater can handle the agency until I get back, I already sent him a message saying I'd be out for a while."\nThat reminds me, no one was there when I came in earlier today and I'm positive they were open. If someone- anyone- had been there when I arrived, I wouldn't have gotten so weak. What happened?\nI snatch a form from the desk before leaving Fat Gum behind to find a seat on one of the benches. Though, he's sitting right next to me a moment later, a pleasant smile on his face as though he has no care in the world.\n"Why was no one there when I got there today?" I blurt out, pretending to read the form before I start writing.\nI see him turn his attention- and half his body- to me before he answers, still popping little takoyaki balls in his mouth occasionally, "Well, Red Riot and Real Steel are back at school now. They're second-years at UA. So they'll only be with us in the late afternoons and evenings sometimes now."\nThis is interesting information to find out. UA is the most prestigious hero school in Japan. And Fat Gum is employing two of them part time...\n"Suneater used to go to UA as well," he continues and I blink in surprise. Another one? "He graduated last year and is a sidekick now. He and I got an emergency call to help another hero with a villain."\nI stop pretending to read and look up at him with interest, "Was it dangerous? Are you guys okay?"\nHe nods in response, that carefree smile growing wider.\nDeciding to pry a little further I say, "That's a lot of kids from UA. Did you and Taishiro used to go there or something?"\nIt hasn't escaped his notice that I slipped in Taishiro's name as well and his smile vanishes as he answers, purposefully avoiding discussing him, "No, I went to Shiketsu. I just saw a lot of potential in Suneater and recruited him. He's a great hero and has a lot more to learn and offer still."\nSo he won't talk about Taishiro unless he brings him up? Why?\nI try another question. "Well where were Taishiro and the receptionist? Does anyone else work there?"\n"We're short staffed," he answers in a slightly cooler tone. He really does not want to talk about him. "Maki, the receptionist you're referring to, is out today. Her son is sick."\n"Oh..." I say as I have no idea what else to say to that.\nI think he's not going to even address Taishiro, and I go back to the form, giving up on the prospect, when he opens his mouth again.\n"You should stop coming around looking for Taishiro," he tells me with little inflection, his eating paused, "He's not around much."\nMy eyes shoot back to him with a frown, "Why?"\nHe knows I'm asking why he isn't around and his face looks harder. I don't think he'll answer this time.\nI've noticed the trend, though. I've seen Fat Gum more often than I've seen Taishiro now, including when he first happened upon me. He'd told me to come see him but then I was told plans had changed. Those changed plans must've affected his ability to be around as often as he would've. Not to mention Fat Gum is still cagey as hell about him.\n"He's got some covert shit going on doesn't he?" I ask, doubting I'll get a direct answer from him.\nI'm right. He doesn't move a muscle, though he looks quite a bit more tense.\n"It's fine," I assure him, "You don't have to tell me. I know you hero types with all your secret shit."\nHe still doesn't respond, though he looks more deep in thought than tense now, his brow making a V shape on his forehead.\nI just go back to the form, taking the silence as confirmation enough.\nAfter a few minutes of me scratching my name and boring quirk information, I hear him go back to munching on his takoyaki balls and I feel the tension ease slowly.\nI don't know if I should bring Taishiro up again. Fat Gum clearly doesn't want me to know something about him and I don't like the way he clams up when I ask. It's not worth the tension, even if I'd really like to know more.\n"Done," I tell him, handing over the paper for him to inspect and hopefully pushing all the negativity away as well. He's probably helped people alter their quirk registration before so I assume he would know how to best fill it out.\nWith his takoyaki finished, he makes sure his hands are clean before taking the proffered paper and reading it over.\n"Looks good," he says after his eyes pass over it a few times, "they might want to ask a few more questions so just be as open and honest as possible, like you were with me."\nI nod but my stomach is still roiling. I talked to him about it out of necessity. I was lucky he didn't judge me. Who knows how anyone here is gonna react?\nWe sit in relative silence, my wings making their occasional nervous rustling sounds as the numbers tick by.\n"Number 83 to the 5th desk please," a voice comes over the speakers and my body goes rigid. My number feels like it came up way faster than it should've.\nFat Gum rises, graceful as always, and looks down at me, waiting.\nI hunch, tucking my wings in tight as I clutch the paper to my chest. I know I need to get up. I know I have to go do this. It's the right thing to do. But all of the fears in my mind tell me I shouldn't. I should just run off and keep living my life like I always have been and forget I ever met someone named Taishiro or spoke with Fat Gum...\nA giant gloved hand extends into my vision and I look up to find Fat Gum's face with a kind, patient smile on it.\nThis time, the hand being offered isn't just a gesture, he means for me to take it; to let him help me up; to let him keep pushing me through this.\nClenching my jaw to assist in steeling my nerves, I gingerly place my much smaller hand in his and he closes his fingers around it.\nMy hand almost looks like a child's in his but something about it comforts me. I can still feel his warmth through the thick fabric as he pulls me to stand.\n"It's gonna be fine," he reassures me, releasing me just as quickly and lightly pressing the same hand to my lower back to spur me forward.\nI go this time, finally finding my backbone and heading toward the indicated desk with the long, even strides I've been trained in since I was a teen.\nHe's not far behind. So he'll stay with me the whole time... I feel slightly less apprehensive knowing that.\n"Good morning!" the man at desk five says as I approach and sit in the chair in front, "How can I be of service to you today?"\nHe throws another sunny smile at Fat Gum, clearly recognizing him, when he takes the seat next to me.\n"Um, yes. Hi. I need to update my quirk in the registry," I tell him, handing my form over.\n"Okay! That is certainly something I can do for you!" He says genially, "Let's see what we've got here..."\nI watch him with unsurprised expectation as he scans the paper and his customer service friendly smile almost immediately melts from his face.\n"Uhhh..." He glances quickly up at me over the paper and when I meet his gaze with a lifted brow, he reddens and looks back down.\nI give Fat Gum a pointed look, unquestionably conveying the statement "I fucking told you so." The "fucking" bit added in and everything.\nHe takes in my expression briefly, with no response, then goes right back to watching the man at the desk who looks like he might be... sweating?\n"Is there a problem?" Fat says with a fair amount of authority in his voice. His existence here might be the only thing that makes this guy think this isn't a prank.\n"Uh- No! Sir! Or no ma'am," he suddenly remembers he's serving me, "Just give me a couple minutes to put this new information in the registry."\nHe sets the paper down and begins typing at the keyboard in front of him, looking nowhere else but the screen to his left.\nI am less than shocked at this response but I don't feel quite as bad as I thought I would. It's actually... kinda funny watching this guy squirm.\n"If you have any questions," I say with a cheerful smile as my confidence grows, "feel free to ask."\nBoth men's eyes shoot to me, widening with surprise. But the man at the desk immediately looks away again, his face getting an even darker red when he says, "Y-yes, I-I certainly will." Then he winces like that was the dumbest response he could've given.\nFat Gum's face morphs into that of amusement, looking like he might bust out laughing any second. His yellow eyes twinkle at me and I can't help but send him a mischievous look back.\nAfter a solid minute of typing and scanning the paper again, then typing some more, the man at the desk stops and attempts to compose himself a little better before addressing me again.\n"S-since this is the first time anyone has registered a quirk like this, what do you want to call it? You're already registered under a demon quirk so something affiliated with it maybe?"\n"You're suggesting Succubus," I say pointedly, not needing to beat around the bush, "That's fine. Whatever. Let's just get this done."\nHe nods and probably gratefully goes back to typing.\nThen he's finished and printing some kind of confirmation paper out to give me "for my records".\n"Thank you," I say with an internal sigh of relief that this wasn't quite as bad as I had imagined.\nI stand, giving him a short bow and he jumps up as well, bowing deeply in return, nearly hitting his head on his desk as he does so toward me and then to Fat Gum who is also rising.\nKeeping the smirk on my lips, I turn on my heel and head out of the office, taking far more confident steps this time. I can hear Fat Gum's thudding steps following right behind me.\nWhen we finally make it outside I spin on him with a maniacal grin, tail whipping back and forth with excitement.\n"Did you see his face?!" I laugh, bending over with my cackling fit, "He was all 'no problem ma'am, I'm definitely not choking on my own spit right now ma'am.'"\nI'm laughing so hard I'm slapping my leg, it's so funny. Tears are streaming from my eyes and I can hardly control myself.\nWhen I can finally calm down for a second, I look up to find Fat Gum grinning down at me. He's chuckling too. I know he thought my poke at the guy was hilarious.\n"Thank you," I tell him cheerfully, wiping at the tears in my eyes, "I don't think this would've gone as well if you hadn't been here. So thank you. You've helped me a lot. Today, earlier, at the studio. You've been... really nice."\nIt's kinda hard to admit that to someone I had a sour taste in my mouth for a little while there, but it's true. I'm willing to admit that I jumped to conclusions about him. He's been a savior to me a few times over now.\n"You handled it all really well," he says like some kind of proud big brother, "You've never needed my help."\n"Well, obviously," I say with a sly smile and he gives me a quick look that tells me he knows I'm teasing, "but I still appreciate it."\nFat Gum buys more takoyaki to eat on the way back to the agency. I'm starting to wonder if he ever stops eating... Maybe not. Maybe that's the only way he maintains his size. He's clearly active and healthy otherwise.\n"You want some?" He asks when he sees me eyeing his tray for the third time. I am hungry. I don't know if I've eaten since yesterday. But that?\n"You know I'm a model, right? I can't just eat whatever."\n"One takoyaki ball isn't going to make you gain five pounds or whatever your concern might be," he says with a roll of his eyes. Snarky. "Are you hungry or not?"\nHe has a point. It's just one.\nWe stop and I pull his hand down to eat the ball off the stick he's holding out to me. Uugghhh, it's just as tasty as I remember. It's been so long since I've had anything even remotely like this.\n"Mmmmmm," I groan, shaking his hand that I have in between mine, "It's so goooood. I knew I shouldn't have eaten any. Now I want more."\n"So have more," he says, pulling back to spear another batter ball.\n"Stop it!" I scold him playfully with a little slap to his thick arm, "You aren't allowed to tempt me like this. If you do, we can't be friends."\nHe gets an odd expression on his face at that as we begin moving forward again.\n"We're friends now?" He asks with interest and I pull back a second.\nI suppose we are friends now. We've had a few awkward moments- like really awkward- but he's brushed them off like they were nothing every single time. No one's easily accepted me like that before. I've never had a good friend since high school and my heart feels freer, lighter, more at ease that there's at least one person who's not turning me out when they've learned my uglier sides.\n"Well... I suppose. If you really want to be," I say, a little snobbish. Tomoyo is right. Why do I have to be such a brat sometimes?\n"Okay," he replies with a wide goofy grin, like it's no big thing, and goes back to his food.\nWhen we reach his agency, I halt at the entrance. I'm not ready to face Suneater again quite yet. I can still remember the horrified look on his face from a couple weeks back and he still knows something about Taishiro. Something Taishiro was meant to tell me. I'm fairly certain I've figured it out now but still... what if there's more I don't know?\n"I think... I'll go back home now," I say softly, picking at my chipped nail polish. I need to fix it.\nHe looks back at me, stopping before he opens the door.\n"You can come in for a little while; I'll order food that you'll actually eat if you want."\nGod, he's so damn nice. It kinda makes my heart feel warm. Someone just caring like that. Who does that?\n"Thank you," I answer a little awkwardly, "but you're right. I shouldn't come around here anymore hoping he'll be here. Sorry I've caused you so much trouble."\nI know he knows exactly who I'm talking about and he turns to fully face me now, taking a step in my direction.\n"Are you gonna be okay?" he asks, not trying to fight me on my decision. He's already figuring out what he should and shouldn't press me on. So he's as observant as his watchful eyes suggest...\n"Yeah," I reply, toying with a lock of my hair now instead, "Probably. I need to feed- ugh I sound like a vampire. I need some more energy soon. Like today or tomorrow. I'll probably go out again tonight just to be sure."\nI'm surprised he doesn't judge me for just picking up random dudes and not telling them anything about what I do to them. He seems like the type who wouldn't approve of me leaving them in the dark. But, once again, he seems to be getting what really sets me off.\nHe moves another step forward and I'd have to tilt my head back if I want to look at him now.\n"Aiko, I'll do whatever I can to help you," he offers, laying a gloved hand on my shoulder that covers it entirely, "I don't want you to go through that again. What if you'd ended up in a coma or worse? None of us would've ever been able to figure out how to help."\nI frown and consider his words, still toying with my hair. Does he mean he'd let me feed off of him whenever I needed it? It's true that his energy is just as delicious and filling as Taishiro's but... I'd prefer it be from him, not whatever relation of his Fat Gum is. It's also just... really weird, the thought of getting anything like that from Taishiro's relative and/or boss.\n"No, it's okay," I tell him politely, "I've been managing it just fine up until now. I let this happen because I kept waiting around for Taishiro. I shouldn't have. I won't anymore. I'll just start going out again."\nMy chest kinda hurts at the thought and I'm fairly certain it's not just because I wouldn't enjoy another person's energy over Taishiro's. This crush is getting a little out of control... It's probably for the best if I just go back to my lifestyle from before. Waiting around for some guy, no matter how nice he is, isn't me.\n"I didn't mean-" he hesitates and chews on those pouted lips that had just been on mine a little while ago- Great, now he's got me thinking about it... He hadn't been so bad at least, "I'm not trying to hit on you, Aiko."\n"I know. I know you aren't. I get it." I do. I'm willing to bet that he wants to help simply because that's the kind of person he is. Not because he wants to get in my pants. Although I doubt it would be much of a hardship for him based on how he reacted to me earlier, "It's just... weird, you know? Because I'm not with Taishiro or anything but... you know."\n"No, Aiko," he says with a tinge of frustration.\nI finally look up at him, confusion pulling my brows lower. He looks so frazzled.\n"What I mean is- It's about Taishiro... Aiko, I'm-"\nI've never seen him this flustered before. He always has a handle on his words. But now he looks like he's struggling to say something, his eyes searching mine.\nThen all the tension goes out of his body and he heaves a great big sigh, looking away and removing his hand.\n"I'm gonna see if Taishiro can be around more often," he says wanly.\nSo that's what he meant?\n"Can you- Would you do that? Is that okay?" I ask, too much hope in my voice. I need to get a handle on this crush, I like the guy too damn much for only seeing him a couple times, even if his taste and his other assets blow my mind.\n"I don't know," he says honestly, "I'll see what I can do."\nBut he seems a lot less energetic than he did a moment ago. At what cost would Taishiro be able to visit me? It seems like Fat Gum doesn't want that. Does he still not think I'm good enough for him? Does he only accept me as long as he doesn't have to subject his brother to me?\n"You don't have to," I assure him, "I'm okay picking someone up. I've been doing it for years. It's not a curse or anything."\nHe sighs heavily again. "Only if you want to. If you don't, I will figure something out."\nWell fuck. He already knows how much I like Taishiro. He knows I almost died (however unknowingly) waiting for him to show up. He probably knows I wouldn't say no if it meant I could see him again, and see him more regularly at that.\n"I... You know what I'd want, Fat-kun," I say and he seems momentarily perplexed by the honorific attached to his name.\nEveryone else calls him Fat for short, I might as well too. And even though I can tell he's older than me, it feels like he would prefer I see us on the even footing that our newly formed friendship suggests, not calling him senpai or -san.\n"If it bothers you that much, I'll tell him about my quirk," I offer with more than just a little anxiety at the thought, "I'll let him make the choice after he knows. Honestly, he'll probably choose not to see me anymore after he finds out. That's... kinda how it tends to be. Then you won't have to worry anymore."\nHe shakes his head with a warm smile, putting his massive hand on top of my head like a big brother or a senpai would. "He won't."\nFor some reason, that actually comforts me. Fat Gum would know, wouldn't he?\nMy face heats and I go back to twisting my hair around my finger when I say, "Then I guess... yeah, I would like your help."\nI see him nod from my peripheral vision and take on that thoughtful frustrated hamster expression. Cute!\n"Thank you," I tell him genuinely, laying a hand on his gigantic arm and he glances back up to me with a little grin.\n"It's no problem, Ai-chan."\nNow I'm momentarily stunned. Of course. I should've seen that coming after what Red Riot wanted to call me.\n"I guess you gotta get back to work. I'm gonna go find some real food and go home," I tell him, pulling my hand away.\n"I'll see you later," he says in farewell.\n"Mm, probably," I reply, smirking over my shoulder as I begin making my way down the sidewalk, back toward the train station.\n--\nIt's about 6 pm when I realize that Fat Gum never told me when I could expect Taishiro. It could be tonight, it could be another week from now.\nHe probably didn't know himself. He just said, "I'll see what I can do."\nSo I figure I should order some take out to be delivered and get myself made up to head to my favorite hunting ground, the bar at a hotel only a couple blocks north of me. You'd be surprised how many lonely businessmen and tourists come through that are more than happy to have some company for the night. And I get the added bonus of likely never seeing them again.\nI've finished my makeup and have just started getting some loose, sexy bombshell waves into my hair when a knock comes at the door.\nThrowing my robe on, I scramble for it and for a second, I worry about my hair looking like a hot mess being only halfway done. But then I figure whatever, it's probably just my delivery anyway.\nWhen I swing the door open, my heart jumps into my throat as I see Taishiro standing in front of me, hands tucked into his pants pockets.\nI have to swallow past the lump in my throat as I stare up at him, not able to hide the shock on my face.\nFat Gum did it. He came through for me...\nThe way he's looking at me, his eyes like liquid gold, makes my body heat all over and my tail curl. There's so much in those expressive eyes.\n"Taishiro," I say barely above a whisper and he gives me a tender smile.\nFor fuck's sake. How does this gentle giant do this to my heart? A girl could easily fall for this man.\nI can smell wave after wave of his scent rolling off of him as he stands in my doorway, staring down at me. Everything about him hits me as though it were still that first night I met him. How long have I been hoping to see him darken my doorstep again?\nYou got it bad, girl.\nYeah. I can tell.\nWhen he finally moves, it's quick and so sudden, I barely have time to prepare before his lips are on mine; soft but needy. His tongue is eager to push past my lips and I'm more than happy to oblige, pulling his flavor into my mouth and feasting on the finest energy I've ever known. How does its decadence surprise me every single time?\nHe pushes me back, slamming the door behind him without needing to take his attention from me and shoves me a little roughly against the wall just inside.\n"I'm sorry," he says hurriedly, taking breaths between kisses, "I should've come sooner."\nMy mind can hardly grasp what's being said. It's too busy concentrating on his large, rough hands already tugging at the tie on my robe, then wandering along the planes of my body when he finally pulls it open.\nHe already has me breathing heavily, gasping as his thumb traces beneath the elastic band of my bra.\n"I-," I can hardly think, I can hardly breathe, and when his mouth moves to my neck, kissing and biting softly along it, I know I have no hope of doing so until I can feel him inside of me again.\nNo one has ever affected me this way before. No one has ever left me speechless, scrambling for control of myself. I'm the one who leaves people without thought or breath.\nHis aroma is so intoxicating and I keep wanting to drink it in, turning my nose into his mussed blonde hair as he kisses his way across my collar bone.\nI try again, attempting to clear the fog from my brain, "I have... a lot to tell you."\nHe finally pulls away and allows me to gather a few more of my wits.\n"After," he growls, low and predatory, sending a shiver down my spine to the tip of my tail. And my mind is lost again as he pushes his hardened length against my lower belly.\nThat's enough for me to feel nearly uncontrollable hunger and pull his mouth back down to mine, relishing in his flavor once more.\nHe wants me. Bad. Almost as much as I want him. It's in the greediness of his kisses, the eagerness of his touch. But most of all, it's in the richness of the aroma curling in my nose and the flavor flowing onto my tongue.\nHas he been thinking about me as much as I have about him?\nI'm not gonna waste anymore time.\nReaching for the waistband of his sweatpants, I shove them roughly down his hips, freeing his arousal and he hisses in a breath when he feels my fingers wrapping around his shaft, rocking his hips into my touch.\nFuck, I want him now. My panties are already soaked.\nI pull one hand away to push at the waistband of my panties and he doesn't miss that action, helping me push them down while working at the hooks of my bra with the other.\nThere's a small amount of regret in me. I like this lingerie set. I didn't know he was coming but I wish he would have appreciated it.\nBut I soon forget about any regrets when my bra comes loose and he rips it away from me, gliding his hand along the curve of my ass as my panties slide down my legs.\nHe stops thrusting into my waiting palm, instead pushing my hand under his shirt while he lifts me, needing only one hand under me to level my hips with his, positioning himself at my entrance.\nA couple small blonde curls are already sticking to his forehead, damp with sweat when his glowing amber eyes meet mine again.\n"I... want you so bad," he breathes heavily and it comes out so desperately that it's like his words travel straight to my core, causing me to try to buck my hips which only brings me more torture as his length just slides along my slickness.\nHe groans out a deliciously deep sound at the friction and I drag my freshly polished nails down the perfectly defined crevices of his torso. Damned if his body isn't absolute perfection.\n"I don't know..." he pants, sliding so painfully slow along my slit again to position himself back at my entrance, "how long I'll last... I've been going crazy thinking about you."\n"Just fuck me," I demand, my voice sounding so pathetically whiney in my own ears that I almost feel embarrassed, "Fuck me and we'll find out." And I hook my legs around his hips to accentuate this statement.\nThat's all the encouragement he needs to push himself slowly inside of me and we both seem to make the same whimpering cry of relief and desire when he's in to the hilt.\nOnce again, he's not patient. He makes a few leisurely pumps, then quickly ramps up to begin slamming his cock deep inside me, his thrusts wild with unleashed passion.\nHe's leaning into me, one hand still gripping my ass to hold me up, the other fondling my breast, rolling the nipple around with his thumb.\nI can only hold onto his shoulders, digging my nails into the taut flesh, my tail curling around his hip, and take his quick, savage thrusts.\nThe sounds he's making are like music to my ears, soft grunts escaping his throat every time he sheaths himself fully.\n"Fuck," I cry out, unable to control the frenzy that's come over me, "Fuck me, Taishiro! I've wanted your dick so bad. Please!"\nThe filter from my brain to my mouth just seems to evaporate when he's inside of me but I can tell he loves every word out of my mouth because he just pushes harder, his grunts getting louder.\nMy wings, trapped against the wall, spread and push at it, trying to get me even closer to him, get him deeper inside of me.\n"God, you feel even better than last time," he groans past gritted teeth, keeping his rhythm.\nHe pauses for half a second, wrenching my legs from around his hips like it's nothing to break my desperate grip on him, then pushes my knees up to chin level, spreading me wide and holding both thighs there, pinned against the wall with his powerful hands.\nThen, he resumes his vigorous thrusts and I am nearly screaming with the pleasure he's giving me. He's driving right into the most delicious spot inside of me, filling me completely with his cock.\n"That's- what I like- to hear," he growls out between thrusts and I almost cum on the spot.\nOh, I like when he talks to me like that...\nI can't think of anything but him and those hands at my thighs and that cock drilling so fucking deep inside me it's like he's a part of me.\nIt's not just his taste that drives me insane- my tongue hasn't been on him for most of this- it's him. It's why I waited for him; why I've wanted nothing but him. It's the way he's looking at me with those half-lidded golden eyes like I'm some kind of goddess. It's the way his voice caresses my ears. It's the way his skin on mine, even now, feels like a brand.\nNo one has ever touched me like he does, made me feel perfect like he does. I can only drift in my ecstasy until I feel my orgasm mounting at breakneck speed and my cries only get louder.\n"Are you gonna cum soon, honey?" he asks, his voice dark and low, sounding like he's fighting to stay in control.\nWhat the fuuuucccckkk?!\nWhen did he start talking to me like this? Why do I like it so much?\n"Kiss me and I'll cum on your cock right now," I whimper, removing my nails from the grooves I've dug into his shoulders to drag his face to mine.\nHe moans into my kiss, my tongue soaking itself in the lust coating every inch of his.\nThat's exactly what I need and I feel my muscles winding tighter and tighter with each savage thrust until I can't take it a second longer, launching over the edge and falling into the rapturous arms of my orgasm.\nHe quickly breaks our kiss when he feels me tighten around him and hears the screams ripping from my throat.\nHe slows and whispers, "I'm gonna cum, I-"\n"I wanna taste you," I croak out, my throat raw from my screams, "Please."\nIt takes him no time at all to let my legs down and I immediately drop to my knees, taking his length completely in my mouth.\n"Oh fuck, Aiko, you- just... fuck."\nI can taste my juices coating his length but his scent and the savory flavor of his lust on my tongue is stronger than anything else.\nHe's quick to grab a fistful of my hair and shove his throbbing cock down my throat, making a truly feral groan as he does so.\nHe leans his weight on one hand against the wall while he fucks my mouth, not afraid to pull me in close this time. And when I hear his breaths become completely erratic, I know he's close.\nReaching one hand up, I slowly massage his balls and I hear him slip over the edge, grunting fiercely as he thrusts one more time into my mouth and exploding on my tongue.\nHe grips my hair tightly like it's a lifeline to his sanity as his cock pulses and shoots more and more cum into my mouth.\nHe's so delicious and satisfying that it almost feels like another orgasm of my own as I swallow down every drop on my tongue and look up into his eyes watching my every action.\nI wait for his breathing to calm and to release my hair before I push myself back up to a stand, eyes still locked on his.\n"This is where you left last time," I say cautiously, feeling him out, wondering if he's exhausted again. I wasn't paying attention once again, I could've easily taken too much from him. It sure feels like a lot.\nA sudden knock comes at the door and I jump, then remember I had food being delivered.\n"It's the delivery guy. Hang on," I tell him, pushing him away, down the hall as he pulls his pants back up around his hips.\nTying my robe back together, I pull open the door to find a guy around my age standing there, large brown bag with the wrap I ordered inside.\nThe guy's face is beet red and I can smell more than just the food wafting in from the hallway.\nShit! Were we that loud?\nWell yeah. Obviously.\nI wonder if he actually just got here or if he was being a little perv and listening for a while. That knock was rather convenient timing.\n"Thanks," I say with a little knowing smirk, taking the bag from him and shutting the door in his face.\nWhatever. If someone else heard, good for them. I hope they got a good show.\nI pad my way into my living room where I see Taishiro standing, his hands back in his pockets again, looking around with some interest at the cozy apartment I call home. I forgot he's never actually seen any further than just inside my front door.\nWhen he sees me enter, he turns to me with a grin and my heart melts all over again. I can't help but smile back.\n"This is where you left last time," he reminds me and I laugh lightly.\nHe's right. We were interrupted right after we finished the last time and I darted. I'm willing to own up to that.\n"Well, I won't be leaving my own apartment this time. I promise," I say, setting the bag on my coffee table in front of the couch, then moving toward him a little timidly, "And you? Are you feeling okay?"\nI'm sure he thinks it's a joke but I really do want to know. I haven't forgotten that I promised Fat Gum I'd tell Taishiro about my quirk. But my courage is failing me at present so I'm here beating around the bush instead.\n"I'm fine," he says, stepping closer to me now and combing those large, long fingers through my partially curled hair.\nHeat pricks at my cheeks and I realize with an embarrassed flutter of my wings that I'm blushing. He's actually made me that flustered over his pretty face.\nMy eyes go wide as I suddenly realize what a mess I must look like.\n"Shit, hang on, I need to fix my hair and my makeup and-"\n"You don't look bad," he reassures me, stopping my panic.\n"I do," I insist, "Just... just wait here for me. You can make yourself at home."\nI rush to the entrance hall and grab the lingerie set I had picked out so painstakingly just an hour ago. Then I rush back out to the living room and stop in my bedroom doorway to turn back to him.\n"I'm sorry I didn't get anything for you to eat. I wish I'd known you were coming," I tell him with regret, "If you're hungry, you can eat my wrap or I'll order something."\n"I'm not-" but his stomach growls just as he tries to tell me he's not hungry and an adorable shade of pink blooms on his cheeks. "Sorry."\nMaybe he's as nervous as I am. Maybe he's also just realizing that this is the first time either of us has gotten to stay and be in each other's company for any extended period of time.\n"Just eat it," I say with an amused smile, "I'll be back out in a couple minutes."\nShutting the door to my room after I'm inside, I race to the bathroom to assess the damage and I have to hold in a shriek of horror.\nWhat. A. Liar!\nAside from my hair being half done, my lipstick is mostly gone but also somewhat smudged around my lips, my eyeliner is running (thankfully not my mascara, that shit's waterproof), and most of my foundation is wiped off of my face. I am a complete mess.\nI have to take it all off and I can't take the time to reapply everything so I just give up and decide to go au naturale. It's not the worst. Hell, Fat Gum saw me without makeup and nearly dying and he still thought I was hot enough to kiss.\nUgh, don't remind yourself of that, dumbass.\nSo I tie my hair up into a messy bun and clean my face off completely. Then, having thrown my old lingerie set into the hamper for obvious reasons, I pick out a cute, lavender set that's got completely see-through mesh cups in the bra and the same treatment on the back of the panties. Now if he decides to have another taste tonight, I'll definitely be ready.\nThrowing my robe on a hook in my bathroom, I put on a violet stretchy dress that comes past my knee but has an incredibly risque slit up one side that reaches to the very top of my thigh. Sexy but not trying too hard.\nI'm feeling almost giddy as I slink back out into the living room to find him leaning back on the couch, the wrap in my bag completely devoured. Yeah, both he and Fat Gum are definitely related in some way.\n"Was it good?" I ask, a smirk pulling the corner of my mouth up.\n"I have to admit," he says with amusement, "it was kinda cold. It must've taken them a while to get here."\nSo that delivery boy was being a little pervert.\n"No," I tell him, my smirk growing more wicked, "He was just listening to our show at the door."\nTaishiro's face goes completely red and my wings do their flutter thing. He's bashful now?\nIt seems like he's all timid smiles and gentle touches when he's not in the throes of passion. But when he is...\nI bite my lip and have to jostle myself out of those thoughts before I jump him again right here right now. I want him more than I've ever wanted anyone. And not just to sate my hunger. I'm thinking of him just because I'm lusting for him.\nSidling over to sit next to him, I'm reminded once more that I need to tell him about my quirk. I promised Fat Gum I would. I owe him my life. And I probably owe him for Taishiro showing up on my doorstep tonight, as difficult as that is to admit.\n"I'm sorry I didn't stay before," I say, giving an easier start off to the conversation, "I think Suneater felt really uncomfortable and I had just spoken to him earlier at this commercial we did together and I just couldn't do that to him."\n"It's okay. You were right," he says, his golden eyes, travelling over the planes of my face like he's trying to memorize me, "You look beautiful by the way. I know you don't need me to tell you but... I just wanted to."\nOh my weak and tender heart. Stay strong, girl...\n"Thanks," I reply, a flush creeping over my cheeks.\nHe blinks, looking like he's suddenly come back to his senses and says, "Oh, you're still hungry, right? Let's get you some food. I'll cook for you if you want."\nHe cooks?\n"No no, I'll order more food," I dismiss his offer, "You're probably still hungry too, I imagine."\nHe gives a little guilty smile at that, rubbing at the back of his neck. "Maybe."\nI grin at the cute gesture. "Okay, then I'll order more food and maybe... we can watch a movie? If you're staying for a little while."\nHe nods in affirmation. He is staying... That makes me so irrationally excited. It's been a long time since I've wanted anyone to stay.\nI may be pushing back what I need to tell him but I will tell him. I have to. I'm not gonna go back on my word to Fat Gum. I can be a good friend.\nSo we order more food from the restaurant down the street and the poor delivery boy has to face me yet again when I answer the door with a lifted brow that says "yeah, I know what you were up to." He runs off before I can even get my door closed.\nThen we eat together while watching an action movie about heroes in America and he has to stop and explain how unrealistic it is every time we watch a scene and I say, "Is that really what you do?" By the end, he's caught on that I'm teasing him, though.\nIt's nearing 9:30 when I have everything cleaned up from dinner and the movie's credits are rolling.\nI've gotten much closer to Taishiro throughout the movie and my side is now lightly pressed against his, his arm draped around the back of the couch.\nHe's been dragging a finger across the soft, velvety skin of my wing for the past fifteen minutes at least and it's got me distracted and warmer every time that rough pad lazily moves its way back up toward the joint. I wonder if he likes my wings as much as he likes my tail...\nA little jolt of electricity shoots through me when he says in that rich voice of his, "Do you feel this, just as much as if I... do this?" And he moves his finger from tracing the lines of my wing to travelling lightly down my back.\n"Yes," I say nearly breathless and my tail starts writhing back and forth as though it's jealous of the attention.\n"Do you like your wings being touched?" he asks with some interest, "Or does it bother you?"\nI've never really considered this question before. This is another one of those things that people either pretend they're not there or they want to know why they're so small and useless.\n"I... I don't know," I say honestly, "They're not overly sensitive or anything. Having them touched is like having my arm touched."\n"Even here?" he asks, grazing a few fingers over the pinkish membranous skin that connects one spine of the wing to the next and my wings fan out, then close back in under those probing digits.\nHis touch is like a live wire that makes every single nerve stand at attention when he runs his fingers over my skin. So of course I'd like it if he touched me there. I'd like it if he touched me anywhere.\n"I don't hate it," I reply, my tail still making languid movements, curling and uncurling.\nHe finally notices and reaches for it, grasping it and sliding his fingers all the way down to the spade tip.\n"Your quirk is amazing," he says with fascination and I know now is the moment. I have the perfect in to tell him the truth about what my quirk really is.\n"Actually," I say, glancing at my fingernails now to start pushing back the cuticles, "I told you before that I have a lot to tell you. It's about my quirk."\n"Okay," is all he says, turning his body to face me, one leg folding between us on the couch.\nI know his eyes are on my face but I just can't seem to meet them as I finally tell him the full extent of my quirk, including how I've been managing up until this point and how I nearly starved to death and ended up kissing Fat Gum, thinking he was him. I refuse to hide anything, even if it makes him think I'm gross or slutty or a twist trying to get in between him and his brother.\n"So," I conclude after my long-winded explanation, still focusing on my hands now wringing together, "I get it if you're mad or don't want to see me ever again. I just knew I needed to tell you cause I want to keep seeing you and I've been afraid I've been hurting you this whole time. And I told Fat Gum I would so you could make the choice for yourself."\nHe's silent for a few heartbeats and I so want to look over at him but I'm absolutely terrified of finding his face filled with disgust, I just keep on watching my hands move over each other and feeling my heart sink further and further the longer he stays silent.\n"Would you have ever told me if that hadn't happened today?" he asks, no anger in his voice at least.\n"I don't know," I answer truthfully, "I was kinda trying to convince myself that I shouldn't see you again and then I just kept wanting to see you anyway. I might not have. You would've figured it out eventually when you kept feeling tired after. You get tired faster than most. I think it's because you taste better and I unknowingly pull more from you."\nHe's quiet again at that. I think he might be contemplating something but I still can't bring myself to look over at him.\n"I feel okay this time," he says gently and I stop my hand wringing.\nThat is true. He's not exhausted this time. Maybe it's because he ate afterward?\n"Are... you asking me to... be the only person you feed on or whatever you want to call it?"\nI hadn't really thought about it like that. It sounds so... exclusive. The thought makes me feel jittery and hot and scared all at the same time.\n"Maybe? I mean you don't have to be if you don't want to. It's really asking a lot I guess. It's not like I'm asking you to be my boyfriend or anything like that. I don't do the whole dating thing. But- I guess if that's what you want- I don't know. I'm-"\nHe cups my chin in his giant palm and turns my head toward him at last. His face is open, unworried, as kind as the day I met him, not a hint of anger or disgust or even uncertainty in it.\n"It's fine," he says with a soft, soothing voice, taking his hand from my chin to tug at the strands around my face that have fallen from my bun, "we don't have to define anything. I'll do it. I like you, Aiko. I'm sorry I've caused you so much trouble from the very start."\nMy heart is being squeezed by a vice. Is this man even real? How is he still single? How has some woman not already fallen madly in love with him and given him ten babies already? What did I ever do to even deserve to know him, let alone be cared for by him?\n"You... don't think I'm-"\n"I think you're a product of not being able to control your quirk," he interrupts, "I think you don't have a lot of self-worth despite knowing that you're gorgeous and sexy and smart and it's mostly because of this. I want to help you on both counts. I'll do what I can to be here for you when you need me. I won't let you starve yourself again."\nI search his eyes for the truth of it. He doesn't seem like he's lying and something in me twists up so badly, I don't know if I'll ever get the way I feel right now, looking up at him, out of my mind.\n"Fat Gum doesn't like to talk about you," I mention to him and he goes a little still, his eyes looking slightly guarded now. It seems he might feel the same way. Could it be they have a bad relationship on top of everything else? "He said you're not around much. I figured you're into some secret hero stuff civilians aren't allowed to know about. So if you can't talk to me about that stuff... I get it. You don't have to."\nThick fingers run through his blonde hair and he nods, "That might be for the best for now."\n"Okay," I say in response.\nA part of me wonders if I've touched at all on what he'd meant to tell me. I think I might've. And I'm more than okay not knowing if he's afraid to tell me just yet. All Might knows that I hope he'd feel the same way if he knew I wanted to hide my quirk from him a little longer.\nI realize suddenly that my tail has been in his hand this entire time and he only just now has begun to move his fingers over it again, his thumb tracing the edges of the spade shape.\n"So as I was saying," he strokes my tail tenderly, sending shivers all the way up my spine, "your quirk," he lifts my tail to his lips, "is amazing." And he softly lays a kiss to the tip of it then releases it, letting it curl as it wants- as I want- around his hip.\nMy heart is racing and I know a fierce blush is glowing at my cheeks but I don't care. I slowly, cautiously turn my body toward him on the couch, mirroring his position and revealing the long curve of my thigh to him, which he doesn't miss.\nThings feel so incredibly different now between us; new and fragile. I've never had a lover who knew about my quirk. Never. For all the experiences I've had, nothing has ever felt quite like this.\nI reach a tentative hand out to his knee, watching his eyes for any sign of reaction.\nThe only reaction he gives is another glance at my exposed thigh, his pupils getting wider.\nI put my other hand on his other knee and I can hear him swallow thickly as I slide my palms up his thighs, a sweet aroma of cinnamon tickling my nose.\nMy eyes don't leave his as I maneuver my body to be on all fours in front of him on the couch, slowly crawling my way inch by inch into his lap, tail swaying back and forth behind me.\nI know he can see down my dress and something about wanting him to look and him trying to resist but his eyes drifting down for just a second before coming back to my face has me grinning.\n"Are you... okay to give me more?" I ask, wanting to make sure he's not too tired, even if he said he felt fine.\nHe opens his mouth to talk but it seems like his words are failing him and he just nods instead, his eyes slipping back down again before returning to mine.\nI move forward the last few inches to meet his lips and they welcome me, soft and full and inviting.\nHe doesn't hesitate to open his mouth to me, his tongue stroking at mine with the same enthusiasm as ever. His flavor is just as strong and savory and delectable. He really isn't disgusted by me. He's truly still attracted to me.\nI crawl even closer, coming to sit in his lap with a tiny sigh and he finally gets up the nerve to put his hands on me, one of them sliding up my exposed thigh he'd been eyeballing moments before.\nHis other hand rests at my neck, fingers playing with the loose hairs at my nape.\nWe stay like this, his hand caressing and occasionally gripping my thigh, my own hands buried in those unbelievably soft, messy curls, our mouths writhing against each other. And it's nice to just be like this, basking in his scent and his taste, not feeling hurried or afraid of being found out.\nThat is until his fingers dip under the leg band of my panties and I instinctually buck my hips into his.\nHis scent, that has been slowly mellowing, flares to life with a vengeance and a low groan sounds from deep in his chest.\nHe breaks our kiss, pulling back to look down at me, his eyelids heavy with lust.\n"How does this work?" he asks drunkenly, his voice deep and sultry, "Is it best when you kiss me? Other parts? How do you get the most out of this?"\nHe's asking a million questions like Fat Gum and it's frustrating because i just want his lips on mine again but I know he's just trying to help the best he can. My lust can wait if he's going to be sweet enough to help figure this out.\n"It doesn't matter," I tell him, " as long as my tongue is on you. I like it best when I'm kissing because my tongue is surrounded in flavor. Just kissing gives me the least energy. The more lust you feel, the more energy I get. So I'll get more if I'm stroking you, even more if I'm blowing you, and I get the most if I'm fucking you."\nHis cheeks are a delicious shade of red when I finish my explanation and I can't help wanting to pull him into my chest and see just how red that face can get. He would be incredibly fun to tease.\nHe sounds completely breathless when he asks next, "Do you get more from slow or fast? Or is it the same?"\nI blink at him, unsure. It's not something I've ever considered before.\n"I don't know," I answer honestly, "I haven't really done things slow since I was a teenager."\nI think he might choke at my response and a grin comes to my lips once more.\n"We can test it out and go slow now... if you can," I tease and his eyes come more into focus at the challenge.\n"Go ahead," he consents and a flurry of excitement sends electricity throughout my body.\nHe doesn't know what he just signed up for and my grin gets devilish at the thought. If looking down my dress was painfully tempting, he is about to feel tortured.\nI push back from him, standing from the couch and the disappointment on his face is so endearing, I want to lean back in and kiss his head. But mercy would ruin all my fun.\nTurning my back to him, I slip my tail out of the slot in my dress and pull it painstakingly slow up over my head.\nHis breaths are coming a little faster now when he sees the mesh at the back of my panties, my tail swishing lazily side to side like a pendulum.\nI'm not out of his reach, standing only inches from the couch. He can touch me any time he wants. But I think he also knows that if he pulls me to him, there will be nothing slow about how he takes me. So he waits, facing forward once again when I look over my shoulder toward him.\nHe doesn't hide this time that he's staring straight at my ass in front of him, hands clenched into fists at his thighs.\nWell if he's gonna stare, I'll give him a show.\nBending over to lean on the coffee table, I hear him suck in a breath and make a tiny grunt.\n"Aiko," he says shakily, "you can't do that to me. I'm-" He makes a growling sound that goes straight to my core and I wonder if he can see just how wet I am for him.\nI feel his hand at the back of my thigh and I nearly jump. It's not rough or grasping. He's just touching, not pulling me.\nIt travels up to my ass, his short nails dragging over the soft flesh where my cheek meets my thigh and I fail to keep in a gasp.\n"You know I want you," he says in such a wrecked voice, it makes me want to clench my thighs together, "Turn around, honey."\nOh my fuck. That name again.\nNever stop calling me that.\nI comply immediately. Standing back up and turning to him. Letting him take in the mesh at the front of my bra as well.\nHe's not hiding the way the front of his pants are tenting. I think he might be trying to tempt me a little bit as well.\nHis hands are still on me, travelling up my thighs, pulling at the elastic on my panties.\nI let him. He seems intent on going slow and I'm starting to think maybe it's me who's going to be burned alive with desire before the end.\nHe hooks his thumbs under the waistband and eases them down, past my hips, then pulls them the rest of the way down my thighs, letting them drop to the floor when they're past my knees.\nThe desire in his eyes is damn near unbearable to witness. He's holding himself back but he looks like he's just as heated as I am.\nThe contrast in control between when he walked in the door and now is not lost on me. He couldn't stop himself before and had no patience for even the smallest inconvenience. Now he waits, simmering, smoldering.\nI inch toward him, leaning in to lay the kiss on his forehead I'd been contemplating earlier and he responds by sliding his hands up to to cup my breasts over my bra. His touch is still gentle, patient but I'm starting to feel less so as I lower myself back down to straddle his lap once more.\nBoth of us are breathing heavily, nearly panting as I sit up on my knees, keeping the pretty lavender mesh right at his eye level.\nHis eyes are going back and forth from my face to the see-through bra in front of him and I arch a brow at him.\nHe's still holding himself back but the look on his face is tortured. Just touching, running his hands over my body isn't enough for him.\n"You still want to try slow?" I ask him, noticing that my own voice is trembling with need as well.\nHe nods in response, hands still moving, caressing but not grabbing.\n"Take off your shirt," I command, "You always get to see me but I've never gotten to see all of you."\nWhen he obeys, I sit back on his lap to admire the artistry of his torso, tracing the lines of the muscles with my slim fingers.\nHis chest is heaving up and down as my hands wander over him. He's straining at the bars of the cage he's putting himself in but he's staying strong. It's adorable and it's sexy as hell.\nA gasp catches in his throat when one of my fingers dips below the waistband of his pants and he makes a tortured animalistic sound.\n"Don't tease me. Please."\nOkay. I won't anymore.\nI abandon my inspection of his torso and begin pulling at the waistband of his pants and boxers, trying to get them both to come off at the same time and he lifts his hips to assist.\nThen they're off and he's free, erection pressed up against his belly, twitching to be touched as my eyes roam over it.\nThis is the first time I've seen him truly naked and I can't help wanting to pause to memorize the gorgeousness of his body; tall, thick, flushed with desire.\nHis cock twitches again and I'm instantly reminded of what I've been intending to do.\nI lean into him and finally bring my lips to his. This is what we're here for after all, isn't it? To see how well going slow works out?\nHis tongue tastes like it's been marinated in the flavor of his lust and I can't stop myself from deepening the kiss further, moaning into his mouth when his tongue reacts just as readily.\nHe sucks in a breath as I scoot forward, sliding his length between my slick folds. The way he releases it shakily, finally unable to keep himself from digging his fingers into the supple flesh of my ass, where his hands have landed, makes another whimpering cry issue from my throat.\nWe're both ready but I don't know I could possibly consider going slow with how much desire is between us now. Maybe I worked him up too damn much.\nHe doesn't even need to guide himself in; when the tip of his cock finds my entrance, he can easily just slide in and he growls at how drenched I am for him.\nI don't think I can go slow. I think this is a total bust. I want him. I want him slamming into me, fucking my brains out again. I want it now.\nBut when I try to shove myself all the way down his shaft, his grip tightens and he manages to hold me up, still inching slowly, agonizingly down.\nI break our kiss, pulling back only millimeters to whine onto his lips, "Taishiro, I can't. I can't go slow. I want you. I want you to fuck me."\nI try to push myself down on him again but I can't break his grip. He is strong. Why does that just turn me on more?\nBy the time I've eased all the way down to the hilt, I'm a sobbing, whimpering mess and I am dying for him to move inside of me.\nHe kisses me again, his tongue still soaked with flavor that tells me he's aching as badly as I am, and begins moving his hips under mine, holding me in place with his raw strength alone.\nI want him to fuck me until I'm screaming again. I want him to bruise me with the power of his thrusts. But when he deliberately eases me back down his cock, angling his hips in such a perfect way that I feel like he's just pushing deeper and deeper into the most sensitive spot of my core, a long moan escapes me, my wings spreading of their own accord and I stop trying to fight it.\n"Do it again," I whisper onto his lips, tucking my traitorous wings back in, and he grins at me.\nHe does it again, pushing me against his cock in the most perfect of ways that leaves me breathless, wanting more, loving the steady, lingering pleasure of him driving into me this way.\nMaybe slow isn't so bad after all.\nI'm able to figure out this angle for myself pretty quickly and soon I'm the one in control, slowly, gradually grinding down on his cock, then lifting myself back up again.\nKissing him while fucking him like this is like being filled with fire and I am trembling, glistening with sweat when his hands finally release me and shower attention on my breasts.\nHis thumbs, so large and calloused, graze along my nipples, then circle them, eliciting a gasp from my quivering lips.\nThe way he pleasures me in new and exciting ways never stops surprising me. I'm so glad I decided not to give him up.\nMy orgasm is coming slowly, at a very relaxed pace, and I revel in the feel of it building up inside of me like a tsunami.\n"I'm- gonna cum," I groan out, still shaking with ecstasy at all the ways he's stimulating me. It's almost too much. Almost.\n"Cum for me, baby," he whispers back, grunting as I grind down on his cock once more.\nHis muscles are tensing too. I can tell he's close as well.\n"You first," I demand, letting the soft pads of my fingers rub at his dark pink nipples and he hisses in a breath.\n"I can't. I want you-"\n"Cum for me or I'll get off right now and make you watch while I fuck my toy instead," I threaten darkly and I feel his cock twitch inside of me at that.\nSo he likes to be put in his place as well?\n"Aiko..." he sighs, quickening his pace a little bit to increase his friction. He's obeying like a good boy.\nHe says my name again, this time with more desperation and I'm getting off on the way it spills out of his mouth. I could listen to him whining my name out for hours.\n"I'm close," he grits out between clenched teeth and I'm nearing my pinnacle too. This slow burn into oblivion is the most mind-blowing thing I've felt so far.\n"Cum for me, baby," I repeat his words back to him and he blows out a shuddering breath.\n"Can I-"\n"Yes, fucking cum. Now," I command, burying him deep inside as he makes a wild, feral cry, kissing me again, letting me taste the ecstasy of his orgasm on my tongue as his cock pulses, filling me completely.\nHis taste and his scent and the feel of his cock throbbing inside of me pushes me to the edge and all it takes is one more slow, powerful thrust for me to soar over, crying out and shaking like I've never done before.\nMy wings fan out, flapping forcefully and, for once, they feel like they might lift me. They feel stronger; bigger even?\nI have to hold tight to him, digging my nails into his shoulders as we ride out the lingering waves of our orgasms.\nWhen my wings finally calm and my muscles unclench, I push back from him.\n"Sorry about that," I say with some embarrassment but he pulls my face to his again, kissing me softly.\n"I'm just glad you liked it," he says with a grin, "Now let me know if it gave you what you needed."\nI don't know how to tell him that I have far more than what I needed and am practically overstuffed with energy, if that's even possible. I feel like I could run a whole marathon right now, even though I just spent myself on him. Twice.\n"Yes," I tell him, biting my lip, "I think I'll be okay for a pretty long time now."\n"Was it better than when it's fast?" he asks, then reddens as he realizes that his question could've been taken multiple ways.\n"It feels like it," I reply with a giggle, brushing my fingers across his darkened cheeks.\nHis eyes meet mine again and my heart stutters in my chest. Goddamn. I think it could be so easy to fall for this man. It feels dangerous and terrifying and I don't know if I want any part of that. He deserves someone so much better than a woman who has such a fucked up quirk that literally sucks the life out of him. But at the same time... I might want to be selfish about someone just this once. If it's him.\nI push off of him slowly, heat flooding my cheeks as his cum, mixed with my own juices, starts running down my legs.\n"Shit, sorry," I say, and make a run for the bathroom while he chuckles.\n"It's not your fault," I hear him call from the other room as I clean myself up.\nWhen I reemerge with yet another new set of undies on, he's already redressed himself and looks over at me with tenderness.\n"Was that okay to do? The whole... cumming... inside of you..."\n"I'm on birth control," I tell him, "Like the best kind. So, short answer, yes. It's okay. I swear I'm not trying to trap you or anything."\n"I didn't mean it like that," he says looking abashed.\nHe is so damn good at being adorable and really really sexy at the same time.\n"I know." I smile at him sweetly and he looks back at me with contentment.\nTonight went better than I ever hoped it might. Despite Fat Gum's assurance, I was still prepared for Taishiro to walk away and never come back. This turn of events is far preferable albeit surprising.\n"Are you... Will you stay?" I ask him hesitantly, pushing the door to my room open further to let him see the bed inside and understand what I'm asking, "We don't have to do anything else. You can just sleep and I won't take anything else from you, I promise."\nSomething shifts in his eyes though and I can tell right away what his answer is. I can't help the bite of rejection in my chest before he even says anything.\n"I can't," he seems reluctant to say why, "I have to get back. I should... actually probably go soon."\nI do my best to keep my disappointment from my face and try to brush it off like it's nothing. I can't go expecting him to just jump into all of these new things. I shouldn't be wanting him to.\n"Are you gonna be okay?" I ask him, genuinely worried for his health, "Are you tired at all? Hungry? You can make it home?"\nHe stands from the couch and doesn't seem wobbly at all as he makes his way over to me.\n"I'm a little tired but I'm okay," he says, petting the top of my head and laying a kiss on it, "I'm sorry I can't stay but here," he gives me a paper with a phone number on it he's dug from his pocket, "I probably won't be able to answer often but here's my cell number and if you need me, you can call and leave a message or text me."\nI wasn't expecting this much and it makes the disappointment a little less sharp now.\n"Thanks," I say with a small smile and pull him down for another short kiss before letting him pull away to leave.\nThis is a whole new territory for me and I feel like I'm acting like a stupid schoolgirl with how I feel about him still. I thought I liked him the night I met him. I really like him now.\nHe glances back at me one more time before ducking out the door and shutting it firmly.\nThen I'm alone in my apartment again and it feels so much more empty than it did a few hours ago. Turning back to my room to sit at the edge of the bed, I still feel the tiny sting of sadness that he won't be sharing it with me tonight. I wish I'd pulled him into it for the second round.\nFuck. I am in so much trouble with this guy. He's so good and pure and sweet. I'm still wondering at how lucky I am that he's interested in me at all.\nFat Gum was right about him accepting me....\nOh! Fat Gum! I owe him so much! He's probably the reason Taishiro came here in the first place.\nI rise again, grabbing my phone off the side table and padding back out to my purse to dig through it.\nFinding the cute yellow card I'm hunting for, I dial the number indicated on the front, knowing I'll likely be getting voice-mail but wanting to make this call now before I forget or talk myself out of it.\nSure enough, it rings only once before voice-mail picks up with a formal message informing me of the hours of operation, who to call in an emergency, and what to say when I leave a message. Finally a tone sounds indicating I should speak.\n"H-hi Fat-kun," I say awkwardly into the receiver, "It's Aiko..."\nI hesitate for a second, wondering exactly what I should say to express how thankful I am to him, then hurry onward, knowing my time is limited.\n"I just wanted to call and say thank you for what you did for me, both today and for Taishiro being here tonight. I'm positive that was your doing..."\nI squeeze the phone tight in my hand, still dissatisfied with my thanks. He deserves more than just a voice message...\n"I... owe you a lot," I squeak out, "and, if you want- since we're friends or whatever now- I could take you to lunch. Wherever you want. You can get whatever you want. How does that sound?"\nYeah. That sounds fair. I could give him that much.\n"Call me back." I give the number to my cell and hang up the phone, feeling really good about myself for once.\nI've gained a lot today. A friend, a... lover? I guess? The peace of mind of being legally and correctly registered for once. No one can threaten to report me ever again.\nSo much weight has been lifted from my shoulders, it feels almost too good to be true.\n

Chapter 5:\nI get to the agency around noon. I didn't allow Aiko to see how exhausted I was because she seemed worried enough but I actually ended up falling asleep on the train across town. When I got home I barely had enough energy to eat the leftovers in my fridge before passing out again in bed.\nBut I can't say I regret it. It was worth it knowing she'll be safe and fed for a long time.\nThe guilt at having let her get to the point that she did has been nearly all-consuming. It was the least I could do for her.\nI should've realized how selfish I was for staying away from her these past couple weeks. I was just avoiding telling her the truth about me and unwittingly pushed her to nearly die due to this quirk of hers.\nShe shouldn't have waited. Why did she wait?\n"Fat," Suneater calls quietly, poking his head in the doorway, "Everything okay?"\nI motion him in with a tired smile. "Suneater! Sorry to come in so late, I was feeling under the weather."\n"I see," he says, eyeing my shrunken form as he closes the door behind him, "Are you okay now?"\nHis confidence has grown quite a bit since he started working here. It feels like it's grown most of all when he's addressing me, which I'm nothing but pleased about.\n"I'm doing alright, I hope things weren't too busy," I respond with a slight hint of guilt.\nHe shakes his head, "I saved a cat from getting hit by a car. It bit me though..."\nI can't hold back the tiny chuckle that comes bubbling up. "That sounds exciting!"\nHis responding look is frazzled.\n"Fat," the receptionist, Maki, says through the door, rapping on it lightly, then sticking her head in as well.\n"Maki, yes, how are you? How is your son?" I ask, greeting her with a bright smile.\n"Oh he's doing better today, thank you, sir," she titters, always pleased to be remembered, "There's a message for you waiting in your voicemail. I was going to just write it down but I figured you might want to listen to it yourself."\nI nod, offering her my thanks and she pops her head back out the door to head back to her perch.\nIt's a little odd that she would suggest I listen to a voicemail when she could have taken the message herself but I suppose she thinks it's important.\nSuneater watches with mild interest as I hit the speaker button on the phone at my desk, then the voicemail.\n"You have one message," the robotic tone says then pauses to play the message.\n"H-Hi Fat-kun," Aiko's slightly timid voice comes over the phone and electricity immediately zips through my body, my heart jolting to life, "It's Aiko..."\nSuneater doesn't fail to notice my reaction but stays silent while we wait for her to continue talking after a long pause.\n"I just wanted to call and say thank you for what you did for me, both today and for Taishiro being here tonight. I'm positive that was your doing..."\nNow Suneater gives me a look that says he knows I haven't told her the truth about me. But it's not judgmental. More sympathetic than anything.\n"I... owe you a lot," she goes on, her voice sweet and musical just like the day I met her. Hearing it reminds me of last night and the little mewling sounds she made when we were on the couch. The message continues "...and, if you want- since we're friends or whatever now- I could take you to lunch. Wherever you want. You can get whatever you want. How does that sound?"\nShe sounds... a little sad.\nI wish I would've stayed. I wanted to stay. But I couldn't risk her seeing the truth of how tired I was and I can't just spend the night with her. She looked so hopeful, like she wanted something to be confirmed between us. I can't do that to her though. I can't let her have some half-relationship with me, not really knowing me. But if she really did know me she wouldn't want a relationship anyway.\n"Call me back," she says and she gives the number to her cell phone. Probably a rather precious commodity.\nThen the message is through and I hang up the phone. I'll have to take down her number later.\n"You're gonna call her back right?" Suneater asks with undisguised interest, "She wants to take you to lunch. The real you."\nOf course I'm gonna call her back. I doubt I could keep myself from it even if I resolved not to.\n"As friends, though. We're just friends," I say, trying to dampen his expectations and my own.\nDamn this heart of mine. How did it only get softer toward her when she told me about her quirk? Most people would've been horrified. That's even what she expected. Why am I not scared of her, mad at her with a quirk like that? She's been using it on me all this time.\n"Yeah, but... a few weeks ago she hated you," he points out. Is he actually trying to be encouraging? "In a few more weeks, who knows? You should just tell her now. It's only gonna get harder to do it if you do what I think you're doing, Fat."\nI shift my gaze to him, "I'm just trying to help her."\n"Help her?"\nHe doesn't know about her quirk. It's not my place to tell anyone about it. All of my pupils seem to know that I like this girl and that she doesn't know I'm both Fat Gum and Taishiro. They talk about it like it's some kind of soap opera they watch daily. I wouldn't be surprised if their whole school knew about it...\n"It's a private matter for her. I can't talk about it but I am helping her the best way I know how."\nI can't stop thinking about that look on her face the first time she met me as Fat Gum no matter how hard I try. Even knowing she trusts me, even after her saying she didn't think I would hurt her, I still remember that fear in her eyes, that disgusted curl to her lip.\nShe won't sleep with Fat Gum. She even just practically said she'd rather go out and sleep with random men than me.... But she wants to sleep with Taishiro. She even nearly died waiting for him to come by again.\nI can't deny that part of my reasoning is selfish. She's beautiful, she's confident, she knows what she wants, and at the same time there's so much vulnerability to her it's mesmerizing sometimes.\nI like her. I didn't think I would again after seeing her face that day but I do. I want to help her. And I don't want her to start seeing other people again if I'm being truly honest.\nIt is selfish but I keep telling myself it's also to help her.\nI'll tell her everything eventually. For now, though, I just want her to be safe and to never have to see the light in her eyes about to go out ever again.\nI pick up the phone on my desk and listen to her voicemail again, writing the number down. Then I give Suneater a pleading look, asking for some privacy.\nHe gives me a nod and heads out the door without even a question.\nWhen I pick up my phone again, I have to take a second to relax. I can't wind myself up over a simple phone call.\nI dial the number. It rings a couple times.\nMaybe she won't pick up. Maybe we'll just end up playing phone tag until we forget-\n"Hello?" she answers in a hopeful, happy voice. It's less forlorn than the message she left and I can feel my mood lighten.\n"Hi, Aiko, it's Fat Gum. You said something about lunch?" I say and I know I sound way too excited already. So much for calming myself...\n"Oh, Fat-kun! Yeah, I did!" She doesn't sound disappointed and my heart wants to take that in the best way possible.\n"How about in a few days," I suggest, "Come in on Friday around noon. Is that alright?"\n"Okay! I will," she says in that melodic voice of hers. Is everything about her meant to be beautiful because of that quirk? Or is it just... her? "Thank you again for, you know, last night..."\nI almost tell her I had a good time, enjoyed every second, but I know she's not talking to Taishiro, she's talking to the guy who set her up with him.\n"It was no imposition," I assure her.\n"You're the best person, as always. I'll see you in a few days, Fat-kun," she responds in kind.\n"See you then, Ai-chan."\nShe laughs in that tinkling way that's probably broken a thousand hearts, then she hangs up the phone and the line goes dead.\nI set the phone back down in its cradle and heave a huge sigh.\nDamn this heart of mine...\n

Chapter 6:\n"Oh, hi, Aiko right?" The receptionist at Fat Gum's agency says with a friendly smile as I walk through the doors.\n"Uh, yes, I'm here for Fat Gum. We had a lunch appointment today?" I answer politely and she nods.\nHer smile brightens and she seems pleased as she says, "He's up in his office. Do you need me to show you the way?"\nI shake my head, "No, I've got it. Thank you."\n"Okay, go on up," she nods and returns to whatever work she was doing on her computer, allowing me free reign of the agency.\nI guess Fat Gum must've told her I was coming considering how unsurprised she seems by my presence. Although it makes sense, she is the receptionist. She was probably the one who took my message.\nHeading for the stairs, I see Suneater headed in my direction. He freezes when he sees me and turns to walk back the other way.\n"Hey! Suneater, wait!" I call after him and he halts but doesn't turn around.\nNearly jogging to catch up with him, I stop at his back, not forcing him to face me if it makes him uncomfortable.\n"Hey, I just wanted to say I'm sorry about before. A couple weeks ago when-"\n"I know when," he says quietly, pulling at his hood.\n"Right. I'm so sorry about that," I say with real regret, "I don't want you to think badly of me. Can we just forget that ever happened? I'm taking Fat-kun to lunch right now. You could come too if you want."\nHe seems to have built up enough courage to turn toward me finally, his face firm.\nHe's never been this close to me. I didn't realize he was so much shorter. Then again, my heels probably don't help matters much. Having only interacted with Taishiro and Fat Gum lately has spoiled me into thinking I'm not an amazon.\n"No, no that's okay. Go with Fat," he says insistently.\n"Are you sure?" I ask, "I don't mind. You can get whatever you want. You can show me more cool stuff with your quirk."\n"I'm sure," he replies, his eyes shifting over my shoulder.\nNoticing his attention change, I turn to find Fat Gum just stepping off the stairs, a broad smile spreading on his round face as his eyes land on us.\n"Ai-chan," he says and I hear Suneater cough behind me, sounding like he might be choking on something.\n"Hi!" I call, waving him over, "Sorry, I got caught up talking to Suneater. I wanted to invite him to lunch too but he said no."\nI give a small pouting face to Fat Gum as he comes closer and he looks from me to Suneater.\n"We could bring you something back," he suggests, "How does that sound?"\nHe looks to me for confirmation on this idea.\n"If that works better, I don't mind. I don't want you to feel left out," I say shrugging as I look back to Suneater.\nHe nods, "That's preferable."\nI'm still a little disappointed he won't come and also still feeling really awkward around him. I can only imagine that he feels the same, if not worse. But I can't push him if he's not comfortable around me.\nSo Fat Gum and I bid farewell to Suneater and head out on our own after promising Maki some food as well-- I would've felt bad leaving anyone out.\n"So where are we going?" I ask, taking almost twice as many steps as his in order to keep up with his long strides. He must keep his pupils even busier if they want to match him. Thankfully, he's at least walking more slowly to compensate.\n"Have you ever had tacos?" he asks with a grin.\nMy brows wrinkle as I think about this question, "I don't think so..."\n"Well, I guess you're in for a surprise," he says with excitement, "I'm sure you'll love it. They even have some healthier options for you."\nOf course he considered what I would be willing to eat for lunch. I told him he could have whatever he wanted. I can't fight him on it, though. He seems to like being considerate of others and he would probably prefer I eat with him instead of just sitting there because they have nothing I want.\nI open my mouth to respond but just then his phone rings in his jacket pocket.\nPulling it out to check it, he looks over at me and gives me an apologetic look, "Sorry, I have to take this."\nI motion for him to continue and he hits the answer button, putting the phone to his ear.\nI try not to listen to his conversation. It could be important or secret stuff and I don't want to eavesdrop on things that aren't my business. He'd probably do the same for me after all.\n"Right now?" I hear him say, a little loudly. He pauses for the other person to answer, then responds, "Not... really."\nMy tail starts darting back and forth nervously. I'm starting to get the feeling this lunch is about to be cancelled...\n"Okay, I'll be there," he says with a resigned sigh and hangs up the phone.\n"Everything okay?" I ask courteously, knowing that everything is probably not okay based on his reaction.\nHe stops walking and I have to hit the brakes pretty quickly myself, nearly stumbling in the process.\n"Sorry," he says grabbing my shoulder to keep me balanced, "I was just called to a meeting. It's pretty urgent and they need me there right away so I'm afraid we'll have to reschedule."\n"Oh..." is the only thing I can think of to say in response.\nI feel kinda disappointed. I don't really get to spend time with friends or much of anyone for that matter. No one else has ever known about my quirk. For some reason, the fact that he knows and isn't disgusted by me makes me less afraid of being myself around him. I feel like he might accept me no matter how messy my life is. I was looking forward to going out and having fun with him.\n"Well what about after?" I suggest, "I'm pretty much free all day. I don't mind if it's dinner instead."\nLetting go of my shoulder, he rubs at his chin, looking unsure, "I don't know how long it'll last. I might be in there only a few minutes, I might be in there the rest of the day. There's no telling with these things. I don't want to keep you waiting."\nThat's understandable but I'm still disappointed.\nMy face settles into a pout once more. "Fine. But I'll escort you there at least. We can figure out future plans on the way."\nHis responding grin is surprising yet welcome. "Okay. Let's head to the train station then," he says, turning to lead us back the way we came.\n--\n"So where is this meeting anyway?" I ask when we get off the train a short while later. I've found myself suddenly more interested in the ins and outs of the hero world after watching that movie with Taishiro.\n"It's at a super secret hero meeting facility," Fat says as though he's read my mind. But his grin gets devious when my eyes widen and that's when I realize he's teasing me.\nI narrow my eyes at him, face warming slightly at falling for the joke, "Where is it really?"\n"Just another agency," he says, eyeing a takoyaki stand we're passing from across the street. I can already hear his stomach growling from a few feet away.\nSeeing where his focus has landed, I look back to him, "You want some? I still owe you lunch."\nBefore he can even respond, I head across the street to get him a large box of the little balls. They're freshly made and piled high with toppings. They look so tasty... I'm so proud and drooling over them a little myself as I cross back toward him.\n"This'll have to do for now until-"\nFat Gum abruptly reaches out and pulls me toward him when I'm most of the way back to his side of the street.\nThe box nearly falls from my hands, my wings flapping slightly to maintain balance as he pulls me close and I hear someone on a bike pass by behind.\nHe laughs, "That might be the klutziest thing I've seen you do so far. That was a close one."\n"S-sorry," I say, a little flustered that I was so distracted, I hadn't noticed a bicyclist passing by. I wasn't in peril or anything but getting hit would've definitely put a damper on my day. Fat Gum is my savior yet again.\nAnd, I notice, my delirious assumption was right before. He is soft. And warm. He's like a giant teddy bear. I bet he'd be a great cuddler... for some other person, of course.\nI push back from him, remembering the box in my hands. It's a little messed up but it's okay for the most part.\n"Well here's your takoyaki now that I've risked my life for it," I joke, thrusting the box toward him and ending whatever kind of weirdness I was feeling for a second there.\n"Thanks," he chuckles, happily taking the box as we start back on our way again.\nWe walk in relative silence, him munching away at his snack, for a few more minutes until I feel the need to speak up again.\n"So I have a couple meetings of my own to take care of this weekend," I tell him, referring to some auditions of sorts to walk for designers at Tokyo fashion week which is coming up in the next couple months, "Maybe we could meet back up on Monday?"\nHe grins at me after swallowing the tiny morsel he just stuck in his mouth, "That sounds fine to me. It's my birthday then."\n"Is it really?" I ask interestedly.\nHe nods as he chomps down on another takoyaki ball. "Yes, really."\nMy eyes light up with excitement. It'll be his birthday soon! I should try to talk to his other employees without him knowing. Maybe they could set up a surprise party for him while I take him out to lunch. That might also be my chance to get back on Suneater's good side...\n"And you don't have any other plans that day? You're okay going to lunch with me?" I ask. It's not ridiculous to assume he might have plans with other friends or family.\nHe turns to me again, ignoring his box of food for a few seconds. "Of course. Who wouldn't want to go to lunch with a supermodel for their birthday?"\nI have to snort at that. "I'm not a supermodel but sure. I'll even dress super sexy for you and make all the other boys jealous," I say, wiggling my eyebrows at him.\nHis face reddens and he looks back at his food, "You don't have to do that. You know I was joking. It's fine just going to lunch with you. You can wear whatever you want... like today."\nLooking down at myself, I have to admit I didn't put a whole lot of thought into the outfit like I usually do. Distressed skinny jeans and an off-the-shoulder peasant top. Another symptom of my assumption that he'd just accept me no matter what. I did take the time to throw my hair up in a ponytail and put on makeup but I mostly just wanted to have a comfortable day off. I'm glad he sees it that way and not as me being lazy.\n"I think I'll dress a little nicer for your birthday," I laugh, patting him on the back.\nHe smiles back at me but looks up ahead again a second later.\n"Here we are."\nAfter throwing away his now empty takoyaki box, he stops in front of a small building painted in beautiful blues and greens.\nA man with dark brown skin and a small padlock through his ear is out front, leaning against the front door.\n"Fat Gum. Took you long enough," he says, giving him an impatient look. Then his eyes shift to me, clearly walking with Fat, and his brows raise, looking back up at him. "So you already knew what this was about, then?"\n"What?" Fat looks between my now extremely perplexed face and this other person.\n"Come in," the other hero says, nodding his head to motion us in as he pushes back to open the door, "We're not talking about this here."\n"What like... both of us?" I ask with confusion, looking up at Fat who seems just as clueless as I am.\n"Yeah, I should think so, Fujisaki Aiko," he says, still beckoning me.\nNow I'm wary, my tail twitching back and forth with irritation, and I can see the confusion and worry on Fat Gum's face grow as well.\nWhen we're inside and the door is shut, he stops in his tracks, eyeing the other hero suspiciously. "I have no clue what this meeting is about, Rock Lock. What does it have to do with her?"\n"Come on," Rock Lock instructs, having us follow down a nearby hall, "We don't got all day. The rest will tell you if you really have no clue. Don't know what she's doing here if you don't know though."\n"She's a friend," Fat explains, "We were supposed to be going to lunch."\nRock Lock's brow lifts a notch as though he's impressed, "With Fujisaki Aiko..."\n"Yeah. How do you know who I am?" I inquire with mistrust, keeping close to Fat as I narrow my eyes at him.\nFat seems more inquisitive than anything. He must trust that this guy isn't leading us into danger so I'll follow his lead for now, despite my misgivings.\n"You're a well enough known model," Rock Lock says as if this were common knowledge, "My wife works for a fashion magazine. She knows all kinds of models, thus I'm well acquainted with many of them as well. You're one of her favorites to edit. She's obsessed with your purple hair."\nI relax slightly at that. What he says actually makes a fair amount of sense. At least he's not a fan. That's the last thing I need.\nHe finally leads us into what looks like a conference room and I take in the group of heroes seated around the large table in the middle. There are at least ten pro heroes in here just based on the way they're dressed and hold themselves. There seem to be a few others who are sidekicks or baby heroes still in school. I notice Suneater in the corner, looking broody. So he was called as well...\n"Fat Gum brought an interesting guest," Rock Lock says to the woman standing up at the front.\nHer blue eyes drift from him to me and I can tell she's assessing me.\n"A model. That's useful," she says with an interested quirk to her lips.\n"I'm sorry, what's happening here?" I ask, not hiding my annoyance. I'm not the type to just be ogled and talked about like I'm not there. There's enough of that when people only care about the clothing I'm wearing for their shows.\n"Come and sit. Here," another hero says to my left, handing me two thick packets of papers, one to pass to Fat Gum.\nIt's pretty clear this is confidential information just by opening to the first page.\nFlipping through a few pages, I'm starting to feel extremely confused. What is all of this? I sit as I was asked, still needing to know what's going on.\n"So, as I was saying," the lavender-haired woman continues on from where she must've left off when we entered, "For those who don't know, I'm Siren. Lady Boa and I have called all of you here because a large number of girls have gone missing lately, most from Osaka, many of which are aspiring or currently working models."\nFat Gum, who's seated himself next to me frowns with concern, shifting uncomfortably.\nI look down at the papers in front of me again, turning to a page with pictures of girls known to be missing. I don't think I recognize any of them but I can't be sure. Maybe I worked a show with one or another in the past?\n"We think they're being pulled into a human trafficking ring by being offered a job in another country, usually America. They leave to travel to their destination and never make it there. Few have been seen or heard from again."\n"What makes you think they're being trafficked then?" Rock Lock asks, his dark brown eyes looking critical.\n"Like Siren said," a woman with tubular, chunky green hair answers him from Siren's right. She must be Lady Boa, "few have been seen again. The ones who have been seen or recovered tell us they were essentially being treated as slaves. More info on their living conditions can be found in the packets you were all given."\nI can barely contain the gasp of horror clawing its way up my throat upon hearing her explanation.\nCould it be just a coincidence? It couldn't be. That seems so unlikely. But Jared is well known. He's practically famous for his photography. There's no way he could be involved in a human trafficking ring. The possibility seems almost laughable.\n"Ai-chan?" Fat says next to me, placing a large, warm hand on my shoulder; he's looking over at me with some concern.\n"Something ring a bell Fujisaki-san?" The woman with lavender hair at the front asks and every eye in the room turns to me.\nDo I say something? What if this has nothing to do with that? What if I somehow blab on Jared for nothing? Is that a safe assumption to make?\n"I... I've been asked to come to a job in America..." I tell the room at large, unsure if I'm doing the right thing but unwilling to risk the possibility of ignoring something that could be a big lead for them.\n"You have? By who?" Fat asks, his expression grave.\n"Jared. Jared Carson. He's a really well-known, well-respected photographer," I answer hesitantly.\n"That's putting it lightly," Rock Lock says, turning to Siren. "He's one of the best in the business. Outright accusing him of anything without solid proof would be like accusing Endeavor of being a villain. No one would believe you."\nI nod in agreement. He's absolutely right.\n"Well we don't need to accuse him of anything. We're heroes, not necessarily police," she replies, "Apprehending the villains should definitely matter but saving the victims is the highest priority. We'll do nothing if it doesn't mean we'll have a chance to save someone."\nThis response is surprising to me. A lot of heroes focus on the glory of taking down a villain. If civilians are sacrificed for that end, they don't care. But Siren-- and now every hero around the room who is nodding their head in agreement-- is saying they care more about saving people.\nIt makes sense that Fat Gum would be here meeting with them. I sort of feel like Taishiro should be too. That's also the kind of hero he is.\n"It's fortunate a model who's been in the business for a while and is well established just happened to fall into our lap," another hero says, standing-- or rather, not quite standing.\nHe appears to be floating but the way his body lurches forward as he floats toward the front of the room, gives me the impression he's less floating and more walking with some kind of invisible limbs. He must use them more often than his own visible ones because his actual body is pretty thin for a hero.\n"My sidekick, Bombshell, is willing to infiltrate the modelling business to see if she can get in contact with whoever might be luring girls but she's been needing a way in. Now she has one," a pleased gleam comes to his eye as he assesses me, then motions his sidekick forward.\nThe girl is tall-- definitely tall enough to work as a model. She's young, probably just out of high school like Suneater. Best of all, she's got platinum blonde hair and bright green eyes; almost unnaturally green. She smiles excitedly at me and I do my best to return it. This seems like a little much to take in all at once.\n"Aiko's not here for our convenience, Vector," Fat Gum corrects him, pulling the room's attention away from me, "She's here by happenstance and doesn't have to take part in any of this if she doesn't want to."\n"Do you truly not want to, though, Fujisaki-san?" Lady Boa pipes up again, tilting her head inquisitively.\n"I... don't know..." I say, feeling very pressured all of a sudden.\n"You can't spring all of this on her. You need to give her some time," Fat covers for me once more, "She's not a hero. She didn't sign up for this."\nWhat he's saying is true. I'm not a hero. I never wanted to be. I have my reservations about what they might want me to do for them. But I also can't in good conscience do nothing. These are my coworkers being attacked, stolen, abused. I can't sit back and do nothing at all.\n"I'll look into getting Bombshell some jobs," I offer, and Fat Gum looks over at me, genuinely surprised, "but she'll need to be using her real name and I need a small portfolio, including headshots. She also needs to be okay with wearing swimsuits and lingerie. Jared mostly shoots those things."\nI don't know what more I can do or if I want to do more. I'm fearful of risking my job.\n"That's fine," Siren says with a nod, "Vector will get those things to you by the end of next week, right?"\nVector nods his head as well, looking thankful.\n"I want you to keep in contact with one of us at all times and tell us if you hear anything about this while working or if Jared reaches out to you again," Siren tells me.\nI look over at Fat Gum with glum acceptance, wishing once more that Taishiro were here and he could be my contact. But I guess if it has to be someone else, Fat is better than any other random hero from this room.\nThe rest of the meeting is just them going over the details of everything they know about this ring and the victims they're aware of-- which, granted, isn't much. They seem to only be at the beginning stages of this investigation.\nThree hours later, we finally get done and I tell Fat Gum I'll join him outside momentarily so I can try to talk to Suneater again.\nHe seems startled when I approach him.\n"Hi again, fancy meeting you here," I say with as much enthusiasm I can muster after three hours of talking about trafficking people.\n"Hi," he replies awkwardly, not pulling at his hood or facing away this time. It's progress at least!\n"So Fat Gum told me it's his birthday on Monday. Did you know that? I assume you knew that."\nHe nods to confirm my suspicions so I go on.\n"Well I'm going to try taking him to lunch again that day so I was thinking that maybe you, and maybe the other boys if they'll be there, would like to throw a party for him?"\nSuneater makes an anxious face like that was the last thing on his mind but his verbal response is a bit different than I expect. "I... could ask Red and Steel. Maki would probably want to too."\nI give him a wide smile in return. "Oh awesome! Thank you so much! I bet he'll really like a surprise party! I can't wait!"\nHe ducks his head and won't meet my eyes, but I see his pleased smile as well. I really hope I'll get him to come out of his shell again eventually.\nJoining Fat outside again, we begin making our way back to the train station.\n"Well... that certainly wasn't how I saw our lunch going," I say, trying to lighten the mood as I keep pace with him.\nHe gives me a small smile, "Yeah, that was... unexpected. I'm sorry you were pulled into that but, honestly, I'm a little glad you were. Were you thinking about taking that job offer in America?"\nI could tell when I first brought it up that the revelation disturbed him so I'm not too surprised by this question.\n"I know my manager wants me to but I wasn't sure. It was only supposed to be a job for a month or so. I didn't really want it but being offered a job by such a big name photographer makes you think twice, you know?"\nNodding, Fat's face turns more serious, "We don't know for sure if he's involved but it would make sense that he's being used to lure girls into travelling halfway across the world. How many other girls could even afford to deny his offer?"\nI shrug in response, my wings rustling uncomfortably.\n"I don't even know if I should've said something. If it has nothing to do with him, it could ruin my career," I tell him, unable to hide the worry from my face.\n"You did the right thing, though," Fat says, trying to comfort me by touching me lightly on the back, "if you hadn't said anything and he is involved, more girls could be kidnapped."\nI know he's right and that's why I spoke up when I did. I'm still anxious about having said something, though. I can already see the looks of betrayal and all of my contracts being withdrawn in the blink of an eye. I'll just have to trust that these heroes can be discreet like they promised.\nAnxiety starts creeping up on me and I feel the urge to chew at my nails but I clench my hands into fists and resist.\n"I hope they go down soon," I say, chewing at the inside of my cheek, "But I also kinda hope Jared isn't involved. I've known him for years. Him doing something like this just seems unfathomable."\nFat Gum looks worried for me but doesn't try to be overbearing with his concern.\n"We'll get this figured out. Don't worry. I want you and every other girl in your profession to be safe."\nMy heartstrings pull and a warm glow issues from my chest. Every time I end up hanging out with Fat Gum, more of me is won over. He's such a kind and caring person. It's so wild to me that he's been willing to do so much for me already. Now he's agreed to do even more and he somehow still values me as a friend instead of looking down on me like a burden.\n"Thanks," I say with heartfelt gratefulness. And I don't mean it just for what he's said. I mean it for everything he's done so far. His kindness, as well as Taishiro's, have come to mean so much to me, it makes me wonder how I struggled through life accepting everyone being at such a distance until now. I won't say any of that out loud, though. Just 'thanks" because I'm too damn proud to admit to anything else.\nOur conversation turns away from such a sobering topic and back toward things like past missions he's done and how I got into modelling. Before I know it, we've already arrived back at the train station.\n"Well I suppose I'll be headed home now," I sigh, trying to keep the small amount of disappointment I feel from my voice. I wish more of our day had been taken up with conversation like we'd had just now instead of so many dark and depressing things. Hopefully his birthday lunch will go better.\n"Sorry about today. Maybe next time, lunch will be a little less eventful," he says as though he can see straight into my brain and pick out my exact thoughts. "You still wanna go get tacos then?"\nI roll my eyes at him, "It's your birthday. You get to pick where we go. Don't worry about me."\nHe rolls his eyes right back as though he's mocking me, "I'll do what I want on my own birthday, Ai-chan."\nMy face scrunches up in an attempt to look offended when I'm actually amused and mildly touched, as I always am, by his thoughtfulness.\n"Alright..." I say in a singsong voice as my train home rolls into the station, "but don't be sorry when all of this spoiling of me goes straight to my head."\nHis eyebrows go up and then a slightly sad smile crosses his lips, "It's not spoiling Ai-chan. It's just what friends do for each other. You can't think you're not worthy of someone at least wanting you to enjoy where you eat with them?"\nMy joking smile falls to more of a small upturning of the lips and I have to look away from him as an indescribable feeling of unhappiness hits me like a truck, my wings drooping slightly.\nNo. I've never really thought that was something normal at all.\n"I think you don't have a lot of self-worth..." I can hear Taishiro's eerily similar voice ringing in my ears, "I want to help you..."\nFat Gum sees it too...\n"Well, I'll see you in a few days," I say, giving him a bigger smile that I doubt reaches my eyes. Then I hop on the train as the final call is being announced.\nSometimes being around Fat Gum makes me wish I'd always had a friend like that. Or at least known someone like that. But, then again, maybe I have known someone like him all along and never let them get close enough to show me such kindness. All because of this dumb quirk. Now that I do know someone like that-- two someones actually-- I never want to lose what I have with either of them. How needy is that?\nI turn and look out the window to find him still watching me, but any sadness that had been on his face is gone now. Maybe I imagined that look he gave me?\nI gaze into those warm amber orbs and let a sassy smirk overtake my features.\n"Bye," I mouth as the train begins to pull away.\nHe lifts a giant gloved hand in response, his customary smile back in place before I lose sight of him.\n--\nWhen I get back home, I suddenly feel exhausted. The mental stress of the day is weighing heavily on me. At the same time, I'm also starving. We were supposed to eat lunch and instead got sucked into a multiple hour meeting. Now, it's almost 5 pm and all I've had to eat today is a measly sausage, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich this morning.\nSo I order some delivery (as is my go-to dinner) and sit down to catch up on some reality shows I've been saving to binge in order to take my mind off of things.\nI practically throw myself into bed a few hours later as soon as it seems late enough for me to head there without feeling too much like an old lady.\nBut now I'm laying here, my mind is racing, going over every single interaction I've ever had with Jared, trying to remember if I've ever actually seen any of those missing girls' faces.\nMy body is so tired but my mind is refusing to calm itself tonight. I sort of wish Taishiro were here. He would at least be a much-needed distraction.\nAn image of Fat Gum and how comfy I had thought he would be to cuddle flashes across my mind before I brush it aside with an exasperated shake of my head. I must be more tired than I thought.\nThen I remember the paper Taishiro gave me.\nHe said before that he probably wouldn't be able to answer...\nI roll over and search my side table, deciding to call anyway. I could leave him a message at least. Let him know I'm thinking of him and how much I wish he were here in my bed. Maybe that might motivate him to come back sooner rather than later.\nI dial the number on the paper, expecting it to go to voicemail, thinking of exactly how I might word my message. Instead he picks it up on the first ring.\n"Hello?"\nMy heart quickens even as my body relaxes into the pillows at that sweet, rich baritone. Just hearing his voice is soothing. I can feel the disappointment and stresses of the day already being lulled into nothing.\n"Hi..." I say meekly, unsure what I should say now I'm not leaving him a voicemail.\n"Aiko, hi," his warm, pleasant voice intones into my ear. He recognizes me just by saying one word... "Is there something you needed me for? Are you in trouble? You can't need energy yet, can you?"\n"No! No, that's not what I'm calling for really. I'm fine. I just wanted to call you. I didn't even think you'd answer," I reply quickly. I should've realized that my calling him would make him think I needed something important.\n"Oh," he says with some relief, I can tell, "Okay. I probably won't be able to answer often but I'm glad you caught me at a good time."\n"You're at home now?" I ask.\n"Yeah. Was there a reason you called or just wanted to talk?"\n"I just... had a difficult day. I don't think I can tell you about it, though," I speak wearily into the phone.\n"That's okay," his voice comes again, "You don't have to tell me about anything. Instead, tell me what you had for dinner or something."\nI laugh, "Of course you want to know what I ate for dinner."\nHe laughs as well and my tail curls, a fuzzy feeling bubbling up inside of me just from hearing him.\n"How about instead... I tell you what I'm wearing," I say suggestively, a devious smile spreading across my face.\nThe phone is quiet for a pretty long time-- long enough for me to open my mouth, about to ask if he's still there-- when he finally responds, "I- I've never really- I don't- If... If you want to... I don't mind."\nI have to suppress a small snicker, imagining how bright red his face must be with the way he's fumbling his words right now. It's so endearing and, at the same time, makes me already want to hear him panting and moaning my name.\n"You don't mind?" I ask playfully.\n"No! I mean... I'm not good at this... I want to know. W-what are you wearing?"\n"Just a black cami and... some light pink panties," I tell him, looking down at my sleep ensemble, "But I could be wearing less..."\n"I... would like that," he says with uncertainty.\nThere he goes again, being adorable while also being irresistibly enticing. I lick my lips to wet them, already feeling warmth pooling low in my abdomen.\n"What would you want me to take off?"\n"I- I don't know. E-everything, probably," he stumbles on his words.\nI can't keep my chortling back at that comment. He's certainly not patient sometimes.\n"Okay," I say, still giggling at his eagerness.\nBut I humor him and set the phone down, putting it on speaker as I shimmy out of my panties and pull my cami over my head, careful to tuck in my wings.\n"They're off," I tell him, wearing an entertained smirk as I bring the phone back to my ear, taking it off speaker, "I'm naked. Now what would you want to do with me?"\nHe sighs a shaky breath into the phone and my chest tightens. He's nervous but he's also clearly enjoying this. I love how open he is with how he's feeling all the time. It's never hard to read his emotions, even through the phone.\n"I... would want to touch you," he says breathlessly and I have to bite my lip, less amused and more excited now to hear his voice already so affected.\n"Where?" I ask huskily and I find that I sound a little breathless too. He affects me as much as I do him.\n"Your hips," he says pretty quickly and I'm surprised at how readily he knows what he wants. He sounds like he's really getting into this now and it makes heat coil in my core. "I like the idea of grabbing your hips to pull you to me. I want to kiss your neck."\nI can imagine his mouth at my neck, kissing and licking and biting like he did the last time he was here.\n"Yeah?" I reply, starting to breathe pretty heavily, "What if I want you to touch me somewhere else?"\n"Where do you want me to touch you?" He responds in a deeper, smoother voice.\n"My ass," I tell him honestly, "I want you to pull my tail again. I want you to drag my ass into your crotch and make me feel your dick rubbing against me through your pants."\n"Oh... my god," he's barely able to breathe out and I can hear heavy puffs of air coming through the phone sometimes.\nHe's silent for a little bit and all I can hear are his labored breaths until he speaks up again.\n"I... I couldn't do that. I'd want you too much and just..."\n"That's what I want," I rasp out, sliding my hand between my thighs now to drag shaking fingers across my slickness. Fuck, I get so wet for him so fast. "I want you to fuck me from behind and pull my tail to slide me down your cock."\n"Aiko, god. Why are you doing this to me?" He gasps into the phone.\n"Because I want you to come back soon. And, for now, I want to hear you jerking off to me telling you how hard I'll ride you next time I see you," I speak lowly, stroking my fingers across my clit with a soft sigh.\n"I- I can't do that over the phone," he says shyly and I wish I could see his face right now. I wish I could kiss away his reservations.\n"Okay," I tell him darkly, "then I will."\n"Wait," he says but I'm already rolling over to my side table to grab my rabbit vibrator from the drawer.\nPutting the phone on speaker I say, "I want you to hear every little sound the entire time. I want you to know I'm imagining you fucking me while I'm fucking my toy."\n"Aiko," he says in a pleading voice.\n"Don't you want me?" I ask, turning the vibrator on the lowest setting, anything higher might push me over the edge way too fast.\n"Yes, Aiko, of course I do. You know I want you."\n"Good," I say as I slide my toy along my slick folds, getting it ready to push inside.\nI know the phone is picking up the wet sounds of the toy moving against me when I hear him make an involuntary groaning sound.\n"Jealous?" I ask teasingly, a tiny smile coming to my lips, even as I let out a small moan.\n"Okay!" he says in a desperate voice, "I'll do it. For you."\nMy adrenaline spikes. Now I'm gonna get to hear his wrecked voice as his cums for me and it's gonna be glorious.\nPositioning my toy at my entrance, I say, "I wish you were here right now, on top of me, pushing my legs apart, about to fuck me. I wish I could feel your tongue on my nipples."\n"I wish I were too. Fuck, I want you so bad," he practically whines and I can hear rustling and zipping as he undoubtedly is pulling out his arousal to stroke along with me.\nI finally push my toy in and make a small whimpering cry as I bury it deep, allowing the rabbit to stimulate my clit.\n"Oh god, Aiko. You're so amazing," he says jerkily, barely above a whisper. He's definitely stroking his cock now.\nI slowly begin rolling my hips and at the same time, pushing and pulling my toy, the vibrations moving along every sensitive part of me, inside and out.\n"Taishiro," I whimper and I hear his responding groan, "I can't wait until you're back here and fucking my brains out. I want you on top of me. I want you to cum deep inside me."\nHe makes a deep growling sound then, clearly liking what I'm saying. I can actually hear the slippery sounds of his hand pumping up and down and it is driving me crazy.\n"Yeah," I tell him, "I like to hear how hard you're stroking your cock for me. Are you imagining it's me riding you until I'm screaming?"\n"Oh fuck yes," he says quickly and quietly, extremely focused on the task at hand now.\nMy own hand and hips move faster upon hearing just how frenzied he is.\n"Next time," I breathe out, pleasure overtaking me, "when you're done the first time, I want you to bend me over and fuck my ass too."\nIt's a risky thing to say. I can't know for sure if he's even into that. But I keep imagining him doing it for some reason. I keep imagining how gentle and caring he would be-- how he would still want to pleasure me-- and I know that I'd enjoy it with him.\nA violently shaky breath comes through the phone.\n"Aiko... you want that?"\n"Yes," I moan, feeling my orgasm begin to mount.\nThe most desperate, whining groan I've ever heard from him reaches my ears and it just drags me closer to my climax.\n"Fuck, Aiko, I want to try that with you so bad. Please let me."\n"Can you imagine that now?" I request, "Imagine bending me over my bed and fucking my ass until I'm begging you to cum."\n"Im gonna c-cum now if you keep talking like that," he groans out.\n"Not yet," I say, "I want you to hear me first. I'm so close"\nAll I get in response is another sigh and I take that as confirmation.\nSo I move my toy faster still and my moans grow louder as I'm pushed closer and closer to the edge.\n"God, I love hearing you like that," he growls and I can't take it anymore.\nI cry out, shaking as my orgasm washes wave upon wave over my body.\nHis breathing quickens and I hear him panting along with the wet, slippery sounds of his hand stroking his long thick shaft. I can practically see it in my mind.\nI moan into the phone as I continue to ride out the last of my climax, my muscles still spasming.\n"Taishiro," I whine, "I want to hear you cum for me. Cum for me while imagining you're fucking me."\nHis movements and breaths come even faster for a couple seconds and then he lets out an animalistic growl, loud and fierce.\nHearing how intense his orgasm is while imagining he's with me is almost like a drug. I love it. It makes me feel powerful and beautiful and wanted.\nHis breathing eventually slows after a little bit and he sighs into the phone once more.\n"Aiko... I've never... Just wow."\n"You liked it?" I ask, another devious smile coming to my lips.\n"Yes," he says a little too enthusiastically, "I liked it a lot."\nThis was definitely something I needed today and I didn't even once think about wishing I could taste him. I just thought about his pleasure and mine and how I wished he were here so I could see that gorgeous expression on his face as he came.\nI didn't let him know but I've never really had phone sex either. Why would I? I get nothing out of it, quirk-wise. But with Taishiro, I think about more than the energy. I think about how he's feeling, how he makes me feel, what he might say to me after, or how soon he might come see me again.\n"Maybe next time I'll send you some inspiration," I suggest mischievously and I can hear him react with a groan.\n"You mean..."\n"Maybe. If you're good," I speak softly into the phone.\n"You're trying to kill me aren't you?" he says, his voice edged with desperation.\n"I'm just trying to get you to come here and get in bed with me," I reply, my eyelids starting to feel heavy finally.\n"You sound tired, honey," Taishiro says, his voice back to that warm, inviting tone that soothes me so perfectly.\n"Yeah," I sigh, "You made me feel better."\nHe chuckles in that way that sends a shiver down my spine and sends my wings fluttering. I don't know how everything about him pleases me so much.\n"Then, I'll let you go to sleep. Have a good night, Aiko."\n"Night, Taishiro. Come back soon," I say before I end the call and set my phone on my side table.\nTurning off my lamp, I snuggle deeper into the covers and let sleep take me as I hold one of my soft, fluffy pillows close.\n

Chapter 7:\nIt's Saturday and I'm, once again, going over my schedule for this upcoming week with Tomoyo over the phone. She's trying to squeeze in a photoshoot for shoes on the same day I have lunch plans with Fat Gum.\n"Actually, I have plans for that day," I tell her nonchalantly, hoping she'll just accept it and move on without trying to pry into my personal life. I should've known better.\n"Really? With who? That hero boyfriend again?" she questions and I have to resist saying something snotty back.\n"If you must know, it's Fat Gum's birthday and I'm taking him to lunch. Maybe also a party."\n"Fat Gum? Like the Fat Gum Agency you were talking about before?" Then a loud gasp comes from the other end, "Oh my god, it really is the big guy?"\nI can't stop my palm from smacking my forehead at her gross misunderstanding. "No! He's just my friend. For fuck's sake, none of this is your business anyway. I have plans. Let's move on."\n"Sometimes your personal life is my business, Aiko," she says rather coldly, "I don't want you getting wrapped up with people who'll be a bad influence on you."\nI have to pause to try and sort that out in my head. What the hell does she mean by that?\nFrowning at her implication I tell her, "Fat Gum and most everyone at his agency are heroes. They're all good people."\n"I don't mean like that," she corrects me and sighs, "Just... try to not pick up unnecessary habits from him okay?"\nShe's not saying anything directly but I think I get what she means and it kinda bites at me. He did get me to eat a takoyaki ball already. I bet she'd have a cow if she knew that. But he's also wanting to go to this taco place because it has healthier options for me. He's not trying to push me into anything. How could she only think of that of all things?\n"I'm not," I snap at her, biting the "t" off harshly at the end, "and mind your own business."\nI hit the "End Call" button and huff a big breath out in irritation.\nTomoyo has been my manager for years. She knows how seriously I take my work and how conscious I am of keeping my body in shape. Who I spend my time with won't change that. It's not like he's got a poor lifestyle as far as I've seen anyway.\nNow I'm in a bad mood.\nPart of me wants to call Taishiro-- possibly to actually talk to him this time. But I only just talked to him last night and I doubt he'll be able to answer at noon on a Saturday. Not to mention the fact that he doesn't like to talk about Fat, the same as Fat doesn't like to talk about him. I don't know how he'd feel about me complaining that my manager was being rude about his brother.\nInstead I just decide to work it out of my system with a long run, listening to angry metal music.\nBy the time I get back to my apartment, I'm feeling less enraged, but am still unwilling to call Tomoyo back. She's gonna need to be the one to call me and apologize.\nIronically, my cell phone begins ringing the moment I think that. But when I check the caller ID, I find it's not Tomoyo, it's Fat Gum.\n"Hello?" I answer, going to plop down on my couch and lay back on the cushions.\n"Ai-senpai! How are you?" Red Riot gushes from the other end.\n"Oh, Red, hi. I'm doing fine. What's up?" I say, intrigued by getting a call from one of Fat's pupils from what I assume is his line.\n"Yeah so Suneater told us about Fat's birthday. We're doing this surprise party on Monday, right?" He asks.\nSo Suneater really did talk to them about it... That warms my heart to know. It probably wasn't even for me. He likely just cares about his mentor enough to go out of his comfort range for him.\n"Yes, as long as you're okay setting up while I take Fat-kun out," I say, a pleased smile curving my lips.\n"Ooooo, taking Fat-kun out, hm? Like on a date?" He says in that clearly over-interested tone that says he knows he's sticking his nose in other people's business.\nI have to roll my eyes. Why is he the second person today to ask me something like that?\n"If you want to call it that, fine," I tell him, glancing at my nails, "but it's just as friends."\nHe snickers like he knows some kind of secret I don't. He's lucky he can't see my annoyed expression. These kids must have absolutely nothing exciting going on in their own lives if they're that interested in what's going on with their mentor's.\n"What are you gonna get him?" he asks, sounding like a kid fascinated by their most favorite subject in school.\n"Uhhh..."\nI hadn't even considered a gift. Why didn't I remember a gift?! It's been so long since I even celebrated a birthday, including my own, that I was just considering having fun and partying. I'm willing to bet that Fat Gum wouldn't even have minded if I hadn't gotten him anything. But now that I've been reminded, there's no way I can go without a gift.\n"You'll have to wait until Monday to find out," I say with an air of mystery, covering for my own airheadedness.\n"Ooo okay. I can't wait," he responds as though it were his own present and not Fat's. I swear he's far too interested in this birthday thing, "I'll see you Monday then."\n"See you then," I reply, then hang up the phone, setting it down on the coffee table.\nNow I have to think of something to buy for Fat Gum's birthday really quickly. I don't want it to be something normal I can just get from a store. I have so many connections in the fashion and accessory industry, there has to be something...\nThen I've got it. I know exactly what I want to get him. I really hope there's enough time for it to be ready by Monday.\nJolting back up to a sitting position, I grab my phone again and quickly scroll through my contacts, hitting the dial button when I find the right person for the job.\n--\n"You... look nice today," Fat says as we're making our way toward the taco place he'd intended to bring me to before, "I told you you didn't have to dress up just for me."\n"Shhh, it's your birthday. I want to look nice," I shush him, "Besides, I didn't even dress sexy like I said I would."\nI decided to just go for a cute look in a light pink sundress with cherry blossoms covering the skirt. I'm wearing wedge heels that add a couple more inches to my height yet, as usual, my head still only comes up to chest level on him.\nHis stature and size were intimidating the first couple times I met him but now seeing that massive yellow form out of the corner of my eye is a comfort for me. Not to mention, it allows me to feel like I'm not towering over everyone for once.\n"Maybe so," he half-heartedly agrees, "and yet everyone is still staring at us anyway."\nI've noticed that too. We're out on the streets at the busy lunch hour and it seems like eyes are following us everywhere we go.\nI suppose we do make an interesting pair. Both of us freakishly tall. One a giant of a man in bright clothing with a sunny personality, the other, a curvy tiny-winged woman with a flippant attitude. We'd probably make for an entertaining comedy duo if I knew how to be funny at all.\n"They're probably all thinking 'what's a girl like her doing with a guy like him?'" He says, looking at each head that turns our way.\nI slap him on the back for commentary like that, although it has absolutely no effect on him. I doubt he even felt it.\n"What they're really thinking is 'What's a hero like him doing with a boring civilian like her?'"\nHe lifts an eyebrow at me and I roll my eyes up to him.\n"You're right," he says with a smirk, "You're just so incredibly average, I don't know why we even hang out."\nI have to take a momentary breath from the savage burn I've just been dealt, putting a hand to my chest for added drama. He's lucky that I much prefer this attitude in him than one that's self-deprecating.\n"We hang out because you like to look at my butt," I sass right back.\nThe way his eyes widen and cheeks redden tells me I've won this round.\n"I...No! You don't really..."\n"Oooo guilty as charged." I grin wickedly at him, my wings flaring with amusement, and the crimson color bleeds into the rest of his face.\n"That's not...I don't... "\nHis flustered face never ceases to entertain me but my sympathy for him kicks in and I decide to show him mercy.\n"People look at my butt all day, sweetie. It's literally my money-maker. It's okay. I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable." I pat him on the back this time, flashing him a well-meaning smile. "Next time you can just say 'You're damn right!' My ego needs the boost anyway."\nThe relief that crosses his face is immense and he chuckles that insanely tantalizing chuckle that always makes my tail curl. It's one of the things that he, to my great agony, shares with Taishiro.\n"I'd say we hang out because, first of all, you called me up wanting to take me to lunch and there's no way I'm saying no to that." The man loves his food, I'll give him that. "And, secondly, because you're fun."\nAgh! My heart! I have to resist grabbing at my chest for the shot he's landed right through my feelings. How does he always know exactly what to say to make me feel good about myself?\nWho would've thought that someone telling me I'm "fun" would make me so happy? But it does. Knowing someone enjoys their time around me, and not just for sexual or monetary reasons, is really, truly uplifting.\n"But also my butt," I say, trying to steer away from all of the sentimentality I'm feeling right now.\nHe laughs outright, "Sure, but also your butt." And I can't help the wide smile that spreads across my face too.\nMaybe I'm kinda funny...\n--\nWe seem to have come in just behind the lunch crowd when we finally reach El Rey del Taco. There are only a couple other people in the small diner.\n"Hola!" A woman standing behind the counter greets us in a heavy spanish accent, "Take a seat wherever you like and come up here to order when you're ready! It's good to see you again se or Fat Gum."\nFat raises his hand in greeting. "Good to be back! Thank you for having us!"\nHer dark eyes land on me and, as has been the case with many of the other eyes that have turned toward us today, there is a moment of puzzlement as she looks between us before she focuses back on whatever her work behind that counter might be.\n"Okay, here, look at all of these choices!" Fat says, putting a gentle hand below my wings to steer me over to the menu covering part of the wall. "This is what I like to get usually," he points to an item that says it's got steak and cheese and all kinds of other toppings, "but they also have more healthy options. See? These ones with lower calories or no meat or no carbs. Whatever you're looking for."\nI snort, "My diet isn't special. I just have to make healthy choices and not take in a bunch of empty calories."\nFat makes a face at me. "I don't know what an empty calorie is," he snickers, "They all seem pretty useful to me."\n"Yeah, to you! You make your living off of them," I pout at him, "for the rest of us lowly citizens, and especially models, we have to watch what we eat."\nHe shrugs. "Well you're free to get whatever you want. I just want you to enjoy it."\nWith my eyes roaming the menu and my stomach feeling tempted, I hardly acknowledge anything else he's saying until we've made our order and are sitting down with our food in front of us.\nThe moment I bite into one of my fish tacos I know I've made a good choice; they're absolutely delicious! It's hard to believe they're so healthy with how incredible their flavor is.\nLooking across the table from me, I'm pleased that Fat Gum took it to heart when I told him he could order whatever he wanted. He's surrounded by plates of tacos. He must've ordered like ten different kinds and now he's putting them away like no one's business.\nI munch slowly on the meal in front of me, occasionally glancing up to check his progress. It seems like each time I do, though, another plate is empty and stacked up at the edge of the table.\n"You must've been pretty hungry," I comment, glancing over the taco I'm about to take a bite of.\nFat stops abruptly and looks over at me, his cheeks coloring. "Yeah, I was. Sorry."\nI shrug, holding my empty hand out, palm up, to express my indifference, "Eat what you want. It's your birthday, Fat-kun."\nHe nods at me with a thankful smile and goes back to the meal at hand.\nWhen I'm a little over halfway done with my own meal, the door-- which I happen to be facing away from-- is pulled open and I hear multiple footsteps entering the dining area.\nIt sounds like it's a group of men, most likely businessmen coming for a late lunch, and they're all chatting away about whatever it is they do for a living. I don't really pay them any mind, especially since I'm about to ask Fat how those grilled chicken tacos I've been eyeing taste.\nThen, through the low din of the chattering men, I hear a horribly familiar voice and the blood in my veins turns to ice.\nI duck my head toward my food as they look for a table to sit at. I would know that voice anywhere. The voice of one of my greatest regrets. How? Of all the places he could be, how is he here?\nFat Gum watches me, picking up on my unease.\nMy shoddy attempt at hiding does nothing, though. This diner is too small. The group of men is only a few yards away after all.\n"Kenji," one of the men murmurs, elbowing a tall young man in the midst of the group and I can see multiple heads turn toward in my direction from the corner of my eye.\nI try to make myself as small as possible as they turn away again and find their seats to begin blabbering to each other about this and that.\n"Aiko," Fat says to me, bringing me out of my reverie and I stare up at him with desperate eyes. His expression goes from concern to shock, drawing back slightly.\nWow, my face must look awful for him to have that reaction.\n"We should go," I mumble, lowering my eyes again.\n"You know those men?" he asks, his voice hardening. He's worried for me.\nI try taking a deep breath but my chest tightens painfully and it's difficult to do so. "Kenji," I say, my voice barely above a whisper, "I don't know if you could even call him my ex but...we were involved."\nI can see Fat's jaw clench, a small amount of understanding coming to his eyes. But he doesn't really know even the beginning of it.\nMy chest constricts further having to relive the memory as I stare off into nothing to recall it.\n"I liked him a lot. He liked me too. But after a little while of sleeping together... he started to put together what I was doing to him. He freaked out. Said I was a psycho. He threatened to call the cops on me and report my quirk for not being registered properly. He never gave me the chance to explain."\nI bring my eyes to Fat Gum's again and am surprised to see he looks furious, his masked brows knitting together to form a V shape.\n"So I ran away," I tell him, still watching his angered face, "I didn't see him for a year or two, then he showed up at a bar I was trolling one day. He didn't seem as worked up about it. I thought things would be okay between us; that we might at least be friends again."\nI anxiously toy with a lock of my hair, messing up my perfect beach waves.\n"But when he found out what I was doing, that I was sleeping with a different guy every week, he... just lost it. He hated me. He thought I was disgusting."\nThe weight on my chest is painful. I don't like recalling this story. I liked Kenji. Almost as much as I like Taishiro. I thought I could love him and the way he reacted to finding everything out destroyed me. It still hurts even now. He's the reason why I haven't been with the same person twice until Taishiro.\n"We haven't spoken since," I conclude.\nFat Gum's face is as angry as I've ever seen it. He's upset. For me? Why? This was all technically my own doing. If I could've had the courage to register my quirk sooner, if I ever tried to learn to control it, none of that would've happened.\n"Are you okay?" I ask, reaching out to touch his hand lightly.\nIt tenses when I do and I pull away again but he catches my hand in his much larger one, holding it lightly with his thumb pressed to the top.\n"Aiko," he says as though it's a strain on him, "you're not a monster. No one should treat you like that, much less someone you're meant to have a relationship with. I know you hid it but if he cared like..." he cuts off and seems to reassess the words he was about to say "like he should've, he wouldn't have done those things. He would've still wanted to be with you. He would've helped you figure this quirk out instead of shaming you for it."\nI want to believe he's right. I want to believe that Kenji's reaction is all his own fault and none of my own. But I know that I'm not blameless. I'm a literal succubus after all. I prey on people, even if it is just for energy. Not many people would take that news well.\nI pull my hand away but feel a sting of guilt a moment later when I see Fat's hurt expression.\n"Can we just... please go?" I say, chancing a momentary glance over to Kenji's group of friends.\nAnd of course it would be at the same time he glances over at me and our eyes meet.\nMine dart away immediately and I shove up from the table. I can't take any more of this. Yet another lunch is now ruined and this time the blame is on me.\nFat Gum rises as well, choosing not to argue, and follows me as I make my way out of the diner.\nBack outside, I set a rapid pace to get as much distance between me and this diner as possible. I guess I'll never be eating there again.\n"Aiko," Fat calls to me, catching up to me easily when he puts on more speed. It shouldn't be a surprise to me that he knows how to move fast as well as gracefully, "Hang on!"\nI won't stop, though. I can't. I have to get away.\n"Aiko!" I hear another voice calling to me. That horrible, painfully familiar voice that sends a dagger of animosity right through my heart.\nI wasn't fast enough.\nThat cool, deep tone stops me right in my tracks and I whirl on the spot causing Fat to have to make a sudden stop as well.\n"What?" I snap immediately as Kenji jogs to catch up.\nHe's dressed nicely, in a dark green dress shirt that pulls the green flecks out in his blue eyes. His beautiful face hasn't changed a bit. Too bad I kinda want to drag my nails down it.\n"Hey, chill, I'm just trying to say hi," he raises his hands to signify he means no harm, "It's been a while. You seem like you're doing well."\n"I'm doing fine. Thanks for all your concern." The sarcasm practically drips from my mouth like venom from a snake's fangs. My tail snaps from side to side, conveying my agitation.\nI'm thankful that the streets are mostly empty of other pedestrians and his buddies didn't follow him out. I don't want a lot of witnesses to see how upset this asshole makes me.\n"Don't be like that, Aiko. I'm just trying to make amends," he says, reaching out to lay a hand on my arm.\nDisgust curls my lip and I step swiftly out of his reach, accidentally backing into Fat Gum. I hadn't realized he'd been standing so close.\nHe lays a hand briefly on my head and I feel the turmoil within me begin to calm. When he removes it, I'm feeling a little better.\n"Why even try, Kenji? Nothing has changed. I'm still who I always was," I bite out, shaking my head.\nThe amiable face he's been wearing up until this point slowly slides away until a sneer is in its place, his hand that had been on my arm a moment ago, now curled into a fist at his side.\n"Why do you have to say it like that? I'm approaching you again, trying to forget all that other shit you told me about and ignore your fucked up quirk and you refuse to have any sense of decency about it."\nMy expression of rage isn't any kinder as I snarl back, "Because I'm not ashamed of it. Don't act like you're doing me a favor by 'gracing' me with your attention again."\nKenji huffs a derisive little laugh, "And here I thought you'd finally turned over a new leaf showing up dressed like that. I should've known better. As if you have any shred of modesty. What a joke."\nI try not to let those words get to me but I can't deny the fact that they cut me deep. I've known that Kenji's an asshole for a long time now. We haven't had anything to do with each other for years. And yet that small part of me that still remembers how he used to look adoringly at me cringes in anguish at his insults.\n"I think that's enough," Fat cuts in, stepping to my right to stand beside me, "If you're done with her then just leave her alone."\nKenji's focus goes to the giant man next to me for only a couple seconds before returning to me, narrowing his eyes.\n"Another conquest? He doesn't seem like your type, Aiko," he comments, ignoring Fat completely.\n"A friend," I snap back, "And we were having a good day before you showed up."\n"Leading men around to do your bidding now? I should've guessed there was no depth you wouldn't sink to," he says with a shake of his head.\n"I said enough," Fat repeats in a dangerously calm voice and I look up at him to see his face is deadly serious.\n"Dude, you're a little whipped," Kenji says, turning his head up to him again, a smirk playing at his lips, "She's got you wrapped around her finger. And I get it, man. She's gorgeous. You're probably hoping you'll be able to get between her thighs- and knowing her, you probably will." I'm trembling with humiliation and rage at those horrible, hateful jabs. "But I wouldn't try so hard for something like a hundred other dudes' sloppy seconds."\n"Fuck you, Kenji, you-"\nFat Gum slowly reaches out to him and grabs hold of the front of his neatly pressed shirt, dragging him closer and lifting him slowly, so very slowly.\n"H-hey! Get the fuck off me!" Kenji shrieks, "Aren't you supposed to be a hero?"\nThe look of panic and terror in Kenji's eye is actually pretty cathartic for me as I see him struggle and pull at Fat's giant hand to no avail.\n"I'm not trying to get anywhere with her," Fat says in the darkest, most chilling voice I've heard from him, "She's my friend and a good person. And she's not an object so she's not anyone's sloppy anything. You understand?"\nHe's so powerful, even a grown man putting his full strength into pulling out of his grip does nothing. The violence I see in those amber orbs is terrifying. I'd never want them turned on me.\nI think for a second Fat might hit Kenji. Which is an awful thought. He isn't a violent man. He's gentle and kind. As much as I'd love to see Kenji get slugged, I would like it far less if Fat were the one doing the punching. Knowing he's a hero is one thing. He fights villains who are hurting people. Him hitting someone out of anger not only seems wrong, it just doesn't seem like something he would do.\nBut, to my unending relief, he just holds him there, lifted completely off the ground, pulling him eye level.\n"F-fuck dude!" Kenji screeches, still trying to struggle but only managing to wrinkle his shirt further, "I get it, okay?"\n"Then I suggest leaving without another word to her," Fat says, his voice still calm and clear.\n"Fine! Whatever, just let go, man!"\nFat releases him and lets him fall to the ground, Kenji's butt kissing the sidewalk with a painful thwack. That can't be good for those fancy dress slacks and I get a small amount of satisfaction at knowing he's probably out a 100,000 yen for them.\nHe scrambles up from his seated position and looks like he's about to start yapping again but he quickly closes his mouth, choosing instead to glare at me, then Fat. Then, he turns on his heel and walks away.\nWhen I see him finally re-enter the diner, I breathe a gigantic sigh of relief and relax the muscles all over my body I had unknowingly tensed.\nFat says nothing and lets me regain my composure before I look back up at him, unsure what to say. Should I be thankful? Apologetic? Should I be angry that he stepped in for me? Should I try to just play off the whole thing like it's nothing? Is it just nothing?\nThe ebbing tension in my body says no, it's not nothing. For the first time since I've known him, Fat Gum directly addressed the fact that he knows about my quirk and knows about my multiple partners and didn't even hesitate to say that it didn't matter; that who I am isn't defined by my body count. In fact, I don't think he even thinks about it at all when he sees me. He just sees... me.\nNo, I guess I can't be mad. I suppose I should be thankful.\nBut before I'm able to open my mouth he says, "So you actually managed to be around that guy for any length of time and think he was charming? You're more of a saint than I thought you were."\nWarmth and gratefulness and delight bubble up inside of me all at once and I'm unable to stop the loud, raucous laughter that bursts from my mouth.\nI can't control myself. My relief that Fat has, once again, made the situation far less embarrassing and more so that the hateful look in his eye has retreated makes me weak to the hilarity of his joke. How is he always saving me from my most uncomfortable feelings of shame and hurt?\n"Yes," I finally wheeze out as I begin to get ahold of myself, "Yes there was a time I thought that idiot was likeable."\nI have to wipe a tear of laughter from my eye.\nFat Gum is back to grinning at me and pulls at my hand to get me to follow him.\n"Come on," he says and I oblige, trailing after him, "Let's head back. Looks like lunch is over for today."\nI sigh, feeling put out that our plans have been interrupted yet again. "I'm sorry I ruined your birthday lunch, Fat-kun. We can reschedule again if you want."\nHis eyes light up with child-like excitement. "You know I can't say no to that."\nThe man is so easy to please.\nContinuing on our trek back to his agency, we lapse back into easy conversation. He tells me a little about what taking a hero course was like after I wonder aloud how his high school life was. It sounds grueling and like too much work to me. I balanced school life while getting my modeling career off the ground in high school. Becoming a hero probably takes even more dedication than that. I suppose it's all a matter of how passionate you are about the job you want. I, for one, know that being a hero was never even a consideration for me. For Fat Gum, though, there seems to be little else that matters more to him. Maybe food...\nI'm a little startled when we walk into the agency to the yells of "Surprise!" (mostly from Red and Steel). After all the things that have already happened today, I'd momentarily forgotten the party and those two sure know how to surprise someone. Hell, their boisterous energy is probably enough for ten people.\n"Happy birthday, Fat!" the two chorus while Suneater looks on, amazingly not anxious for once. He looks content and actually happy to be here. It's a new look for him and I think I rather like it.\nFat is genuinely surprised and he laughs heartily. "Wow, this is great! You guys set all this up for me?"\n"Of course we did!" Red replies with no hesitation, "Ai-senpai, suggested it."\nFat turns to me. "Really?"\nCrossing my arms over my chest I shrug. The thankful way he's looking at me makes me embarrassed for some reason. "I just asked if they wanted to set up a party while we went to lunch is all."\n"And we did! So now let's eat some cake!" Steel says with a greedy glance at the large sheet cake set on the receptionist desk.\n"Oooo yes. Let's," Fat agrees, his own hungry eyes staring at the cake before him, 'Happy Birthday Fat Gum' written across the top in orange piping. He is probably still hungry considering our lunch was just cut short.\nMercifully, Maki, who is being very graceful about the fact that these teenagers have taken over her desk, slices the cake perfectly into a bunch of smaller squares, placing some on little plates to hand out to each of us.\nFat raises a brow as he holds a piece out to me. It's just vanilla with some white frosting, nothing too crazy, but he now knows about my avoidance of less healthy foods. Cake is definitely on that list of "AVOID."\nThis shouldn't be such a hard decision. I should say no. It's his birthday, though, and it's just this one slice; it should be fine. But I've said that before, haven't I? With the takoyaki.\nTomoyo's stupid voice rings in my head, reminding me about picking up "bad habits" from Fat Gum. I've been good at avoiding temptation before knowing him. It was hardly even an issue. After all, I was still able to indulge another appetite that pleased me even more. Now that that appetite is well sated and I have no interest in trying someone new for the moment, I can't tell myself that I'll just indulge in someone else later. It's just me, the cake, and my self-control.\nFat can see the indecision in my eyes and pulls his offering away, setting it back down next to the rest of the cake.\nGuilt pushes down on me. Is he offended? Does he think I'm not as interested in celebrating with him now?\nI roll my eyes to hide my true feelings as I stick my hand out, "If it matters so much to you..."\n"It doesn't. We can get you something else if you want."\n"You don't need to get anything extra for me to celebrate your birthday. I don't need all that special consideration. Just give me the dumb cake," I mutter, still holding my hand out and shaking it for emphasis now.\nA look of mildly amused disobedience passes over his face. "Nah."\nHuffing out a breath, I turn my glare on him. Is this entertaining to him? "You want me to celebrate your birthday? I'll celebrate your birthday. Give me the cake."\n"No."\nMore amusement fills his eyes as I try to move past him to grab for the tiny plate but he holds an arm out to keep me from doing so. I don't even know why I try to push against it; he can easily hold back my weight with one arm, I'm sure.\n"Look," I snap at him, feeling annoyed now, "I'm just trying to celebrate with you. If it means eating the cake-"\n"It doesn't," he cuts me off with a small laugh at my futile attempts at overpowering him, "I don't care if you eat it. You're here. You planned this. That's good enough for me."\nWith absolutely no effort whatsoever, he wraps the arm that had been holding me back around my waist, lifting me to set me back away from the cake again.\nI have to pause a moment, completely taken aback by what just occurred and also feeling strangely breathless. I don't know if I love or hate that it reminds me of when Taishiro lifted me out of my chair and onto the table in the break room. Is that weird?\nMy mind drifts to how his fist gripped my shirt to pull me to his lips....\nI pull out of Fat's grip quickly and turn away, my wings fluttering behind me, telegraphing how affected I am. I will them to stop immediately, putting my face in my hands. This is not a good time to have some kind of flashback of the hot sex I had in just the other room.\nI remember the rough pads of his fingers as they dipped below my waistband...\nStop! Stop! Stop!\n"Ai-chan?" Fat says in a questioning voice, laying a large, gloved hand at my back and I jump at the contact. He pulls back immediately. "Aiko, I'm sorry if I..."\nDammit dammit dammit! He thinks he scared me! "No! It's- it's not what you're thinking. I'm not scared. I- I remembered something. It's not bad, I swear."\nI doubt he believes me but I absolutely can not tell him that he just reminded me of his brother manhandling me and how much I liked it. I don't think that would go over well.\nThankfully, Maki rescues me from the awkward situation by coming over to us with a large white box in her hands.\n"This was delivered for you while you were gone," she tells Fat, holding it out to him. It has the words "Happy Birthday!" written on the top in some really nice calligraphy.\nHe's silent, possibly unsure if he wants to leave me to the mood I'm in but I turn back toward him, my flashback forgotten, when I see what she has. He takes this as the go ahead to take the box from her, holding it out in front of himself with a bewildered look on his chubby face.\n"From who?" he asks, turning it this way and that, then shaking it to see if he can hear anything in it. By the looks of it, it's pretty light.\nShe shrugs. "It just came by courier."\nThe other boys, who had been conversing over their cake have taken notice of it now too.\n"Oooo! What's that, Fat?" Red asks, craning his neck to see the top of the box.\n"I'm not sure," he replies, still with that perplexed angry hamster face that I've always found endearing.\n"It's... probably from me," I pipe up, chewing at the inside of my lip, "I wanted to get you something for your birthday so... here."\n"OPEN IT!" Red Riot squawks, looking like he's vibrating with excitement and Steel nods his head in agreement.\nFat looks to me, a question in his eyes. Maybe two questions, actually. He's checking to see if I'm truly okay from before as well as asking if it's okay to open the gift now.\nI nod yes on both counts, giving him a little smirk.\nHe grins, finally lifting the lid of the box and lowering it so everyone crowded around him can see inside.\nThere, wrapped in thin tissue paper, lies a humongous folded hoodie.\nFat takes it in his hands, setting the box with the tissue paper aside. He unfolds it and the "ooo"s issuing from the other boys tell me that I've done well.\n"This is..." Fat starts but his voice fades away, too speechless to finish his thought.\nThe hoodie he holds is a custom designed piece by a big and tall menswear designer. He owed me a favor and I called it in, hoping it would be done in time and that it would be something Fat Gum would like.\nThe hoodie is half black, half yellow but the line delineating the halfway point is diagonal so it cuts across his torso from shoulder to hip. The top half is black, the bottom yellow, and on either side is a letter. A yellow F is embroidered onto the black half and a black G is embroidered onto the yellow half.\n"It's the only one like it," I tell him proudly, a grin spreading across my face with how amazed he is, "Kosuke seemed excited at being able to design for a hero. They usually just go to costume designers for all of their needs so he wanted to show a more classy side to hero wear."\n"This is," Fat tries to say again, "really amazing, Ai-chan."\n"Try it on, Fat!" Steel pushes.\nAnd Red chimes in with, "Yeah! I wanna see it!"\n"I'd like to see it on as well," Suneater speaks up with a look of interest.\n"O-Okay," Fat Gum says hesitantly when he sees that I'm interested as well. "Hang on."\nHe hands the hoodie to me to hold while he unzips his usual jacket and sets it aside, revealing a black tank underneath.\nI only have a few seconds to inspect his form and surprisingly (although, should it really be?) muscled bare arms and broad, thick chest before he takes the hoodie to pull over his head and covers himself again.\nMy attention goes back to the hoodie and how well it fits him. It's not too small nor too big. Kosuke has a damn good eye to figure out his size just by finding him in a few pictures. I might go to him for more stuff for Fat if the need ever arises.\nThe hood is still pulled up over his head, the strings pulled tight. I sigh at him, shaking my own.\n"Why do you always wear your hood like that?" I laugh, amused by how this hoodie is hugging his head just as tightly as his hero costume, "Come here."\nHe bends down to allow me to reach him and I loosen the ties, pushing the hood down. I run my fingers through his loose light blonde curls a couple times and I'm reminded fondly of how it felt to drag my fingers through Taishiro's hair.\nMy heart pulls momentarily. This is the second time I've been reminded of him in only a matter of minutes. I really wish he would come back soon. It hasn't even been a week since I last saw him but I hardly care. I already miss him in my apartment, sitting on my couch, grinning at me like he's thought of a joke and can't wait to tell me.\nWith that yearning still weighing me down, I come back to the task at hand. Fat Gum is still in front of me, head beneath my hands.\nReleasing his hair, I allow him to stand back at full height so I can inspect him.\nIt's so easy to tell his resemblance to Taishiro looking at him now. His loosely curling short blonde hair sticking out from his head at different angles, those sharp golden eyes, that kind, caring aura about him\n"You should wear your hood down more often," I tell him with a smile, "You look good like this."\nFat beams back at me, his yellow eyes brightening and his round cheeks turning a light pink color.\n"Thanks."\nThe room has gone oddly quiet and I turn to see that all four of the other occupants are watching us with rapt attention. They might as well be eating popcorn. When they see I've realized this, they hurriedly look away and start busying themselves with other things again.\nI'm starting to get the feeling that a lot of people are getting the wrong idea about our relationship and I don't quite know what I should say. I can't tell them that the reason I'm comfortable around him is that he knows my deepest, darkest secret. I also can't really tell them that I appreciate him hooking me up with his brother. I can understand people getting the wrong idea not seeing the context. It's weird that I can't correct their assumptions. But, at the same time, I suppose it doesn't matter what anyone else thinks anyway.\nI spend the rest of the afternoon at this tiny party with this small group of people I've come to enjoy the company of.\nThe rest of his employees give him the presents they got for him (which are all either food or gift cards to get food.) He's more than happy to receive them, though. I also knew that getting him a gift like that would be a safe bet, and much appreciated, but chose to take a risk and it luckily paid off.\nA few people stop by every now and then to wish Fat a happy birthday and drop off a present. One of them is that Rock Lock guy from the meeting a few days ago. He only gives me a nod of acknowledgement before he leaves.\nAnother is a guy dressed in all black save a long, thin white scarf that looks more like bandages wrapped loosely around his neck. He looks like he's constantly tired and grumpy and in need of coffee. I'm a little concerned when Red calls him sensei. When he catches sight of me, he looks like he's scrutinizing me for a couple seconds before looking away again, his face unreadable. But at least he doesn't have that confused expression when he looks between us. That makes him a little more likeable at least.\nA few police officers come by as well as a handful of more heroes. Fat's list of friends and acquaintances seems to be long and diverse.\nVector stops by just as we're cleaning up, though it seems it's more of a visit for business, not pleasure. Bombshell is following studiously behind him.\n"Oh, how fortunate to find you here fraternizing," he says with a small smile then motions me over, "Let's discuss this more privately, shall we?"\nI shoot a look over my shoulder to Fat to make sure he's aware I'm going with Vector and he nods at me.\nOnce outside the agency and away from other ears he turns to me. "I was going to just drop these off with Fat Gum to give to you but since you're here..." He hands me a folder with a resume at the front and a portfolio of pictures all of Bombshell-- or rather Whitney as the resume says, her real name, an American name.\nOh, my agency is going to love her.\n"Whitney is it?" I say, tripping a little bit over the odd syllables in my mouth.\nThe comely blonde nods, "Yes, that's right."\n"It says here you're 19 and your quirk is 'Bomber'? What is that?"\nShe nods again at my first question then answers my second, "I can make things explode when I touch them. Just inanimate objects, though. Nothing living. Even plants don't work."\nThat's... pretty damn cool. Why am I the only person I know with a quirk sent straight from hell?\nBut I keep that thought to myself, keeping my features schooled to remain professional.\n"Well," I say, thumbing through the photos they've given me, "I'll pass these on to my agency and my manager to see if she'll take you on. She's really great. I've had her since I was a teen."\nThen I remember the falling out I had with Tomoyo a couple days ago. The shitty things she said. Maybe I shouldn't be referring anyone to her after all... Or maybe the crotchety bitch needs to call me back and apologize already!\nI can't say any of this out loud, though. I've already told Whitney I'd hook her up.\nShe looks genuinely excited. Good. Because she's got a long road ahead of her and I'm getting this nagging feeling I'm about to get a new kohai to take under my wing.\n"The agency will take you. I'll make sure of it," I assure her, "Do you have any formal model training?"\n"No," she says shaking her head.\nI was kinda getting that impression based on some of the pictures provided...\nSighing heavily, I swipe a hand over my brow, "Well, I might be able to help you out with a few of the basics... I guess."\nWhitney's eyes brighten like I've just offered her a hundred million yen. Hm. Maybe one day my advice and coaching might actually be worth that...\n"That would be amazing! Thank you!"\nI wave off her thanks like it's nothing. Inside I'm really feeling good about myself and flattered as hell that she's this pumped about learning from me like I'm some kind of celebrity in her eyes.\n"I'll call you to let you know when I'm available to help you out. In the meantime, work on knowing your best angles and lighting. You'll probably need to interview and walk for the agency. Do you know how to walk?"\nWhitney tilts her head, looking mildly confused, "...yes?"\n"Okay so I'm gonna take that as a 'no.'" I say, assuming she's likely never even set foot on a runway, "When we meet up, I'll help you with that as well. When it comes to walking, though, don't work on it too much without coaching or you'll get into bad habits and have a harder time fixing them."\nShe nods, looking like she's trying to keep all of this information I'm bombarding her with stuffed in her brain. I can't help it, though. This is my life. And soon it will be hers too. At least for a little while until we catch the people behind this trafficking ring.\nI head back inside after finishing my conversation with Vector and Bombshell to find the place looking spotless. They finished up all the cleaning without me.\n"Well, this party was fun, guys," I address everyone in the room, shifting my gaze from person to person before landing on Fat Gum, "I should probably head home, though."\n"Aww, really?" Red asks with the saddest puppy face I've ever seen.\n"We still have a patrol to do anyway," Suneater murmurs, fidgeting with the cloth at his sleeve.\n"Before we head out for that, I'll walk you out," Fat says, holding his hand out as a gesture of his offer.\nI don't miss the pointed looks the others share with each other. We are really going to need to have a talk with them. I don't know what I should tell them exactly but the looks they give us sometimes are just so awkward.\n"Okay," I tell Fat despite those prying eyes and follow him back out the entrance I'd just come in.\n"Here, I'll take you to the end of the block," he amends his previous statement and starts walking before I can even agree. I have to hustle to catch up to him.\nThe sun is starting to set, painting the sky with pinks and purples as I walk next to him down the sidewalk for the third time today.\n"Well, today has been... eventful," I say, trying to pick out the proper euphemism for how odd the whole thing was. From running into Kenji to having to suffer the extremely obvious stares from Fat's employees, I'd have to say "eventful" is a pretty good word for it.\n"It was definitely that," he nods in agreement.\nHe's still wearing the hoodie I gave him and even has his hood pulled back like I left it, his messy blonde curls sticking out at every angle from his head.\nMy opinion may be biased but he really does look so much better with it like that. Though, I suppose, being a hero isn't about looking good; at least not for him, I can tell. There has to be some kind of reason for him keeping it up.\n"You know, you don't have to keep your hood down if you prefer it up," I tell him, elbowing him playfully.\nHe grins down at me with a pleased expression. "I'll keep my casual look for you a little longer."\n"Wow. So generous," I pretend to swoon, fanning myself.\nFat chuckles, elbowing me as well, though that sends me off course a couple steps, and then he laughs when I shove back into him, not moving him an inch.\nHe sobers quickly though, turning his head toward me as we near the end of the block.\n"I wanted to make sure that everything was fine... from before... when I lifted you..."\nOH! I'd actually forgotten all about that! I should've guessed he still felt bad about it.\nI reach out to touch his bulky arm, doing my best to reassure him. "Everything is fine. I told you before that I wasn't scared. You believe me, right?"\nHe looks away, uncertain.\nI almost tell him why I actually turned away and was uncomfortable but I think better of it. I already know he closes up when talking about Taishiro. I don't know how he'd respond if I told him that something he'd done reminded me of a sexual encounter I had with his brother but it's probably a safe bet to assume he wouldn't take it too well.\n"Well, even if you don't believe me, we're still fine. Nothing is wrong," I say, patting him where I'd laid my hand.\nWe reach the end of the block at last and we stop, Fat turning wholly to face me now.\n"You're sure? I am sorry for that. I guess I just... I don't know. I didnt think." He brings a hand to the back of his head, running it through his messy curls anxiously.\n"Fat-kun, it's fine. No need even for an apology. Really," I say, deciding to try and change the subject so he'll finally stop this self-conscious attitude. "Now let's talk about rescheduling yet again. I'm sorry but I don't think I want to try the taco place again."\nFat seems to take the hint that we're done with that conversation and moves on after a hesitant pause.\n"Yeah, I can understand that," he finally says, pulling his hand from his hair, "Our lunches haven't really been working out lately have they?"\nI shrug. "That's how it goes. We'll have a decent lunch eventually."\n"Are you busy next week? If you want, you can come then."\nI have to pull my planner out of my purse to check my schedule before I can say for sure. I should've considered digitizing my schedule a long time ago but I really enjoy making my planner look as cute as possible. It's color coded to distinguish between work plans, personal plans, and events like birthdays. I also love putting stickers and washi tape all over to better organize everything. I'm a bit of a planner enthusiast.\n"You like plannering?" Fat asks, seeing the thick bound tome in my hands for the first time.\n"I guess you could say that," I reply, suddenly feeling self-conscious about it. It's not like it's some dark secret of mine. Everyone who knows something about me, knows I like to decorate my planner, "I don't really have any hobbies but I suppose this is the closest thing I have to one."\nI run my well-manicured fingers over the cute characters on the stickers for plans next week.\nHe doesn't say anything else about it, just watches my hand intently as I search my schedule. It's probably a smart move. If he'd teased me about it, I would've gotten defensive and snappy. If he would've complimented me or seemed more interested, I probably would've clammed up about it.\n"I'm free next Monday. I have to go to Tokyo for a few days starting Thursday of next week but I'm free all week until then."\n"Okay then. Monday it is," Fat says, that smile I've been hoping to see finally breaking onto his face and easing my worry for him.\n"It's a date!"\nHis smile brightens a little bit more, making me unable to keep from smiling back. How is his good mood always so infectious?\nBeating down the voice in my head that says I'm being overly sentimental and sappy, I step forward and put my arms around his massive, teddy bear-like body as far as they will go. "I hope you had a good birthday Fat-kun."\nHe deserves to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I don't fear him. I can't stand the thought of him thinking that, especially on his birthday. I look up into his honey-colored eyes that have a shocked expression, then calm to a contented one, his thick arms circling my frame in return. I'm trying to laser in the message, you don't scare me, I like to be around you.\nWith the way he smiles back, I feel like he's gotten it.\n"It was one of the best birthdays ever. Thanks, Ai-chan."\nMy heart feels so full right now. It's been a long time since I've celebrated someone's birthday with them but I feel like I did well at making this a happy memory for Fat to look back on. Yet, somehow, I also feel grateful to him. There are so many things he said and did today that made me feel accepted and appreciated.\nI step back from the embrace with a heartfelt smile, my eyes not leaving his.\n"See you next Monday," I say as a farewell, moving to step into the crosswalk after the light changes.\n"See ya, Aiko," he replies, the wind rustling the curls at the top of his head and making me wish I could feel them under my fingertips again for just the barest of a second.\nBut that feeling passes even faster than it came and I turn away, heading back toward the train station and home.\n--\nI'm feeling exhausted from the day when I get to my apartment building but I stop at the lobby to get a courier to take the folder with Whitney's portfolio and resume to my agency with a note written on the front of it reading, "You're going to want this girl. - Aiko" I've never once recommended a girl to the agency so they will likely put heavy weight on my opinion of someone wanting to break into the business. Luckily for me, Bombshell's name was aptly given. She wont have a hard time making it.\nSince it's already dark out, they say it'll be morning until they can bring it but that's fine. She needs to get in soon but a handful of hours won't make or break the investigation right now. Maybe I'll call in the morning, though, just to be sure...\nRiding the elevator up, I allow myself to remember what riding in the elevator with Taishiro that first night I met him was like; how messy he looked; how kind and sweet.\nDamn, now I really want to call him again. More than that, I want to see him again. Will there ever be a time I might be able to see him consistently? Possibly even every day? And what does it mean that those are things that I want?\nI told Taishiro before that I don't date or do relationships but that I would try if that was what he wanted.\nNow it's starting to seem like I'm the one who wants that....\nI pull out my phone the moment I get in the door and type out a text. Texting him makes me feel less like I'm bothering him.\nAiko: I was thinking of you today\nI wait a few minutes but there's no response.\nOkay. No big deal. He said he wouldn't be able to answer often. He might be on a mission or he might have just not seen it yet.\nI make some dinner, a nervous energy making my fingers tap at the granite counter any time I'm not using them and my wings fold and unfold as though they just won't lay right.\nWhen I sit down to eat after cleaning up the skillet I used, I check my phone again.\nNothing.\nI'm not sure why I'm disappointed. I shouldn't have expected otherwise. He did say to use the number to get a hold of him if I need something. Maybe I shouldn't be using it as a means of just communicating with him.\nBut I want to. I want to talk to him far more than we've gotten the chance to. There's still so much that needs to be said and that I want to learn about him, even if I can't know about his job right now.\nI dig into my dinner for one while watching a show on TV I'm not paying much attention to, checking my phone every so often.\nUgh, I feel so dumb right now. I need to stop this nervous fidgeting. I can't just send him more texts in the hopes he'll respond though. If anything, I could send him one more text, maybe two, without looking obsessive. If I did, what would they say?\nA wicked idea crosses my mind and I grin deviously at just the thought of it.\nI did promise him inspiration last time we talked. I should give him just that.\nGetting up, I rush into the bedroom to disrobe and choose my lingerie carefully.\nWhen I'm satisfied with what I'm wearing, I set my phone up just so on my side table, facing the bed. It's the perfect angle.\nI'm so thankful for technology these days. I never thought I'd have a need for a camera timer on a phone but here I am, setting a timer for ten seconds, then jumping on the bed to get in probably the most provocative position I can imagine, looking back at the phone just in time for the shutter to go off.\nPushing back up off the bed, I inspect the picture and am pretty impressed. My modeling skills have not failed me today.\nIf he doesn't have anything to say to this, there's probably nothing more I could do short of telling him I'm in danger, and I'm not about to lie to get his attention.\nAttaching the picture, my heart races at the thought of how he might react to it. How I might hear his ragged breaths over the phone again. Or, better yet, in person, breathing warm puffs of air across my ear.\nI shiver as I type out my text.\nAiko: I guess you're busy but I hope this encourages you to get back to me soon and maybe come visit me again. Maybe before I leave for Tokyo next week? I know I'm not in need of energy right now but I kinda just want you.\nAiko: I hope that's ok\nMother of All Might, do I sound desperate?\nNo. Definitely not. I sound horny and probably pretty sexy too. If he's going to answer at some point, it'll definitely be in response to that picture.\nI've regained my calm and feel like I have more control over the situation now. Technically the ball is still in his court to get back to me but, if I know anything about Taishiro, I know he'll be stumbling over his words again just seeing me like that.\nIt's not too hard to snuggle into bed and fall asleep, especially after having a lengthy session with my vibrator, imagining Taishiro on top of me, inside me.\nDamn. Maybe I should've recorded and sent that.\nWell, there's always next time. With any luck, I'll have a lot more chances. For now, I pull my soft, cushy pillow to my chest, feeling comforted by its squishy pressure against my body.\nAs I begin to doze and lose control of my thoughts, my mind wanders blissfully.\n"Happy birthday," I whisper to no one who can hear before sleep fully takes me.\n

Chapter 8:\n"I'm beat," I say, wiping sweat off of my brow as I head back inside the agency close to 11pm.\nRed and Steel left hours ago to get back to their school in time for dinner and bed. It's still a school night after all.\nThen we got caught up in a pretty nasty spat between two groups that looked like they were members of rival gangs. It took far longer to handle than I had anticipated but we're finally finished.\n"Thanks for staying, Suneater," I give him a hefty pat on his back that incidentally sends him stumbling forward a few paces, "Oops! Sorry about that."\n"It's fine," he says in a grumbly tone that makes it seem like it's anything but. Then again, he often has a less than enthused tone to his voice. If he says it's fine, I'll just have to believe him.\nMaki's already gone home for the night so I guess all I need to do is lock up. There's no need to have Suneater here for that. He's had a pretty busy day himself.\n"You can head out now if you want. I know it was a long day so if you want to come in a little later tomorrow, that's fine," I tell him, flashing him a warm smile. It only seems fair that he gets to come in late tomorrow after working far later tonight.\n"What time is it?" he asks. I guess he was unaware that it had gotten so late.\nPulling out my phone, I see that I have a few new texts. I must've been too busy to notice the buzzing in my pocket. Understandable, considering the stress of the situation we had to deal with.\nThe texts are from Aiko which means she's trying to get a hold of Taishiro. She, obviously, doesn't have a cell number to get a hold of Fat Gum since ours are one and the same. I probably should've considered that before giving it to her but what else was I supposed to do? Get a second phone in order to get further tangled up in this lie?\nWhen I open texts, my mind goes completely blank and my jaw drops open. All of my breath is expelled from my lungs in one big whoosh as I stare at my screen, dumbfounded.\n"Fat?" Suneater questions, bringing me back to the present, "What's wrong? Did something happen? What's up with your phone?"\nHe takes a step toward me as if to take a look for himself and I hastily shove my phone back into my pocket.\n"It's nothing! It's not anything important!"\n"Are you sure?" he presses. Odd for him but he does seem very concerned, "You look really stressed again. Your face is getting kinda... red."\n"I'm sure!" I reply, probably a little too shrilly.\nFor someone who has been living a humongous lie for the past few weeks, I'm actually pretty bad at out and out lying. The only way I've gotten away with it with Aiko for so long is by doing my best to avoid talking about, well, myself... or rather Taishiro in her eyes. Every time she brings him up, even for an instant, I feel tense and nervous like I'm sure she's about to find out and make that face again like I'm the most disgusting thing she's ever seen. I can practically hear her saying "I've been sleeping with you?" with a sneer on her lips. It's hard to admit, but that scares me more than anything.\nI sigh, knowing that Suneater will probably worry over this for the rest of the night if I don't ease his mind. "It's really not anything bad. It's Aiko. That's all I'll say, though."\nHis brows crease and he ruminates on this for a moment. "Oh... Ooohhh..."\nNow his face scrunches up in a look between embarrassment and horror and he pulls his hood down over it.\n"Sorry," I say, hoping I haven't traumatized him too much already, "It's 11:02 by the way."\n"Thanks..." he says quietly, then points at the door, "I'm just gonna..." But he doesn't finish his sentence and heads quickly toward the exit.\nI feel terrible that he's constantly having to deal with this little dance between me and her. I don't know if he's getting frustrated or just flustered that he keeps wandering into sexual situations between us. Maybe I should give him a day off soon...\nPulling out my phone again when I see he's gone, I open Aiko's texts once more.\nI hadn't even had time to read before. The picture she sent just jumped out at me.\nAiko: I was thinking of you today\nWhen was she thinking of me I wonder? I mean, she was with me for most of the day, but when was she thinking of the me that she likes to be intimate with? Did something today remind her of those moments between us?\nThen there's a picture, one that still makes my heart pick up speed when I see it.\nAiko's on her bed. I recognize the room from when she opened her door to invite me to stay. The sheets are rumpled under her body as she sits on all fours, her rear facing me. Her back is arched low like a cat and she's resting on her elbows at the front, her tail lifted and curled at her thigh so I can see... well pretty much everything.\nShe is wearing underwear, a white thong with thin fabric that's pulled tight due to her stretch and allows me to see an imprint of...\nI have to look away or my pants are about to become way too tight. Sweet Christmas, she has to know what this does to me.\nThere are a couple more texts after the picture.\nAiko: I guess you're busy but I hope this encourages you to get back to me soon and maybe come visit me again. Maybe before I leave for Tokyo next week? I know I'm not in need of energy right now but I kinda just want you.\nAiko: I hope that's ok\nShe just... wants me? As in, she misses me?\nI don't know what I should say to that. Of course I'd love to go and touch her like I want to again, especially after looking at that picture. I know what the soft skin of that amazing ass she's showing off for me feels like under my hands. I can hear the whimpering sounds she makes when my fingers are exactly where she wants them.\nOne thing I do know for sure is that, quirk or no, she loves sex. And she seems to want me and fantasize about me just as much as I do about her.\nBut should I really be visiting her more often than is necessary? She doesn't actually want me, she wants Taishiro, my muscle-bound counterpart that actually leaves me immensely weaker than I am now. Not to mention the toll of burning off the fat and then letting her feed on me as well. I can't be doing this every couple of weeks.\nGlancing at the photo again, I've made up my mind. I will go see her again before she leaves next week like she asked. But this is the only time I'm going to do this. After this, I should only visit when she needs the energy.\nI wish so badly that I could just see her every time she asked or when I wanted to but every time I go to her as Taishiro, I feel my emotions getting more confused.\nTaishiro: I'm sorry I didn't answer sooner. You're probably in bed now but yes, I'll visit next week for sure\nI knew Suneater was right when he said it but it truly is getting harder and harder to want to tell her the truth, even with the way she looks at me when I'm Fat Gum now. I know it's because we're friends; because she's never had someone to lean on before and her appreciation runs deep. She still wouldn't dream of it being anything more and definitely never consider sex. Not that I mind. I like being her friend and confidant and I'm okay if all I gain is a friendship from her...\nIt just gets hard to separate me with her as Fat Gum and me with her as Taishiro sometimes and then we end up with the situation like we had earlier today when I picked her up. I forgot for just a second that I can't touch her like I do when I'm Taishiro. She was practically trembling with fear and still tried to tell me it was nothing.\nTaishiro: I swear you're trying to kill me. Someone thought something was wrong with me when I saw this and nearly stopped breathing. You better be ready for retribution.\nAs I suspected, she doesn't answer. She's probably already asleep.\nAfter closing everything up and locking the door, it's nearly midnight when I get in the door of my condo.\nI check my phone again just to be sure but there's still no answer. She'll likely get back to me in the morning.\nMy eyes seem to travel back to her picture on their own and my heart rate picks up all over again. How did I manage to attract the attention of someone so... so... I don't even know the word. She's gorgeous, yes, but also sexy, confident, cute at times, good to the kids who work for me, sassy. How did I manage to catch the eye of someone like her? Even in my muscled form, I never would've imagined she'd look my way.\nMy memory travels back of its own accord to her whiney voice on the phone.\n"Next time... I want you to bend me over and fuck my ass too."\nGod, she is so dirty. She's a wet dream come true and every time she begs me to do something for her, I can't help but give her exactly what she wants.\nDamn, my pants are feeling extremely restricting now. I'm getting harder and harder thinking about pulling that ass she's presenting to me and sliding my length along her slit. I know she'd be wet and ready for me. She's always so wet when I touch her.\nImagining her below me, making her sweet moans, or better yet those screams she let out last time, I unbutton my pants and let those fantasies whisk me away while stroking my cock.\nOh... I will get her back for this.\n--\nAiko: I'm ready whenever. Come take it, honey.\nIt's past 8am before she gets back to me and she's already acting feisty. That woman really will be the death of me...\nAnd that name. I called her that once, it just slipped out and she loved it so much, I cant stop calling her that now. I wish I could say it to her every day and see that spark in her eye each time.\nTaishiro: Just wait til next week...\nAiko: I'm ready now\nAnother picture comes in and it's of her again, still in bed (she must've just woken up). It's just her lower half like she's taken a picture from her point of view and her left hand is in her panties clearly fingering herself.\nTaishiro: Oh my god. Why are you doing this to me?\nAiko: You know why\nI was wrong before. She is a monster, but not in the way she thinks. Can I even wait for next week with her sending me pictures like this? Do I have time to jerk off again before leaving for work?\nTaishiro: You're gonna be sorry a week from now when I'm done with you\nAiko: ooo are you gonna spank me like a bad girl?\nIm gonna do more than that...\nTaishiro: You'll see\nI put my phone in my pocket to avoid any further temptation before donning my usual jacket and heading out to the agency. Hopefully I can take my sexual frustration out on a punching bag in the gym before Suneater comes in...\n

Chapter 9:\n"Okay. Walk." I turn on loud electronic music with a beat that's impossible to miss as I sit in the basketball court of the local gym.\nWhitney (a.k.a Bombshell) begins walking up and down the length of the gymnasium for me to the beat of the music, her hips sashaying perfectly.\nHer form is beautiful and the serene look on her face is appealing, making her seem more interesting than most models do with their deadpan faces of boredom.\nThe only problem she seems to have is that it all falls apart after only a few minutes and she's back to walking like she's just going down the street. She seems to lose her concentration partway through every time.\n"Head Up! Shoulders back! One! Foot! In front of! The other!" I yell over the music, to the beat, clapping my hands to try to get her attention back on track.\nShe immediately fixes her posture and her walk returns, hips swinging side to side.\n"Good!" I yell again, keeping an eye on her feet to make sure she's got them properly aligned and isn't about to break an ankle on those spiky heels.\nWhitney grins at my praise and I have to smack myself in the forehead. That was my fault, I suppose.\n"Only smile when you're told you can smile!" I correct her and, thankfully, she does her best to put a serious expression on her face again.\nWe've been at this modelling crash course for about three hours and she seems to be improving by leaps and bounds. I'm really impressed that she is taking this so seriously and putting in the time and effort to get better. Her commitment is giving me the impression that this is something she has wanted to do since before she was assigned this mission. I'm not about to pry into her motives, though. That's her business. I'm just here to make her seem legit.\nShutting off the music, I can distinctly hear my phone ringing in my purse at my side now and am able to answer it just before it's about to go to voicemail.\n"Hello?" I answer, shooing Whitney away to go get water and take a break so I can have some privacy.\n"Hi, Aiko."\n"Tomoyo..." I respond coolly.\n"I can tell you're still pretty miffed about what I said before."\n"Well you were being a judgemental bitch and putting your nose where it doesn't belong," I point out matter-of-factly and it takes her a moment to respond to that. I'm sure she was trying to keep her cool.\nWe've had our arguments before. This cycle of fighting, going radio silent a few days, then apologizing is nothing new. We're practically like family now.\n"I'm sorry I said anything about Fat Gum, alright? It's not my business who you're friends with or date or anything. I was out of line. I still see you as that sassy teen I first met years ago and I forget you're an adult sometimes," she says with what sounds like genuine sincerity, "I hope things are okay between us."\nSighing and looking down at my fingernails to examine them, I answer, "I guess so. I just need you to trust that I know what's good for me."\nEven though I'm quick to anger, I'm also quick to forgive and get over things that upset me. It seems like Tomoyo gets that she messed up. I refuse to stay mad at someone who's willing to be self-aware.\n"I'll do my best, Aiko. You know I worry about you too much sometimes," her no-nonsense voice comes back.\nI roll my eyes. "Yes mom."\nI'm being facetious but she can't say she doesn't deserve it.\nShe gracefully decides to not to respond to me with more snark despite the fact that I'm sure I'm at least annoying her.\n"Anyway, part of the reason I'm calling is I got a call from the agency today. They said you sent them some girl's portfolio and recommended her? Why didn't you tell me about her?"\nBecause you were busy being a crotchety bitch...\n"I only just met her recently. I told her she had a great look for modelling and that she should send me her info."\n"Well just from seeing a few amateur shots of her I'd say you chose well. I can't wait to meet her," Tomoyo says with surprising acceptance.\n"Actually," I ease into the subject, "I was hoping you might want to be her manager as well?"\nI say it as a question out of politeness but I really mean that she better take the job. It's important to me. I think she can sense that.\nShe pauses in thought before answering, "You're really that interested in her?"\n"Yes," I answer without hesitation, realizing that it's kinda true. I wish I could see where her talent takes her. But, more than that, she will be indispensable in the investigation to help save these other girls. "I'd like to get her into the agency as soon as possible. I've already begun coaching her."\nShe's quiet for a long moment again. Now what?\n"Are you... Are you trying to train your prot g or something? Are you retiring?" Tomoyo sounds a little choked up asking this, worried even. It's surprising to me because she's only ever been straight forward and no-nonsense.\n"No! Of course not!! I don't want to retire! It's nothing like that!" I reply in a hurry to get her to stop sounding so torn up. "I just think she has a lot of potential! Here look, just meet with her. Watch her work. You'll see what I see."\n"I better," she says, snapping right back to her usual self. What was all that? An act? "Bring her with you to Tokyo this week. She can interview at the agency then."\n"Okay," I respond, whipping my planner out quickly to jot these notes down.\n"Also Jared will be back in Tokyo this week and he's doing a shoot for Sakuya's hero line."\nMy heart rate spikes hearing that name. "Jared? Really? So soon? He was just here a few weeks ago."\nWhitney is just entering the gym as this is brought up and I wave her over hastily.\nShe wobbles and nearly breaks her ankle when she tries to rush over. I have to hold back a sigh. She's gonna need to borrow those to practice...\n"Yeah. Sakuya paid big bucks to have him come back over here to shoot her line. He insisted you be in the shoot too so don't look a gift horse in the mouth. This is a great opportunity and, if everything goes well with your girl's interview, you might be able to get her in there too. Wouldn't that be nice for her first ever professional photoshoot?"\nYeah... that would be beyond nice. Almost unheard of for someone's first shoot to be such a huge sportswear brand. But I need to get her in there with me, even if it just means she visits the set. This is the perfect opportunity for her to lay eyes on Jared and to get an outsider's perspective on how he really seems.\n"That would be nice. She could definitely use the connections," I try to say as casually as possible. I don't want to sound too excited. I need Tomoyo to see her as only another model. I doubt she could keep from treating her differently if she knew she was a hero on an investigation.\n"Alright Aiko," Tomoyo says with a bit of finality, meaning she's decided to end the conversation, "Then I'll see you on Thursday with your new girl and she better be everything you say she is."\n"She is. I know my shit, Tomoyo," I quip back. She's really not trying all too hard to stop treating me like a child.\nHanging up the phone without a "goodbye", my eyes go to Whitney, who seems to have heard the conversation well enough.\n"You're coming with me on Thursday. Is that something you think you'll be prepared for? Because it better be."\nWhitney nods with eagerness and determination. "I'll be ready and I'll impress the hell out of them and Jared."\nI arch a brow at her confidence, pleased that she's not second-guessing herself.\n"Good," I say, pulling out a skimpy swimsuit from my purse, "Then get dressed. Let's work on posing. And keep those shoes on. They stay on your feet for at least five hours a day until Thursday. Got it?"\nShe looks uncomfortable for a second, then pulls her expression back in line and takes the swimsuit from me. "Got it."\n--\nWalking into the now very familiar Fat Gum-shaped building on Monday at noon, I'm greeted by the man himself right at the front as though he's been waiting for me.\nHe had initially been talking to Maki but his head turns swiftly in my direction when I walk through the doors, as though he's just been caught misbehaving and is trying to hide it.\n"This is an interesting surprise," I say, shooting him a tiny smirk and he responds with a wide smile of his own.\nMaki is at her usual perch and is now scrolling her mouse wheel a little too enthusiastically for me to believe she's minding her own business.\nFat seems to have some kind of nervous energy about him as he fidgets with the hem of his jacket.\n"Hey, Ai-chan! You ready to try lunch again?"\n"Third time's the charm. Or so I'm told," I tell him with a nonchalant shrug and press my back to the door, readying to open it again.\n"Well actually," Fat says, still messing with his jacket's hem, tracing his fingers along the edge as his eyes study the desk to his right. "Since our last couple treks out haven't been too successful, I figured we could eat in."\nI make a thoughtful expression. That's not too bad of an idea. I wouldn't mind eating lunch here. That doesn't explain why his every move is lined with apprehension, though.\n"Okay, that sounds good," I respond, pulling away from the door to take a few more steps inside "I'd like that."\n"So- well I don't know if you'd be all that interested. I don't know exactly what you like but I tried to make things based on what I've seen you eat and- I hope that's not too forward of me, assuming what you'd like to eat..." He's rambling a bit, which I'm finding oddly adorable. Are huge men meant to be as cute as he is sometimes?\n"You made food?" I ask excitedly. Home-cooked meals are few and far between for me.\nSo both he and Taishiro like to cook... Yet another quality they share. I wonder if they know how similar they really are?\nNow his nerves make sense. If I had made a whole meal for someone who had a different diet from me in the hopes that they would actually be willing to eat it, I'd be nervous too. It's one hell of a risk and he's putting his cooking under my scrutiny.\n"I hope that's alright," he says with some reservation.\n"Yes! Yes! Show me!" I urge, pulling lightly on his jacket.\nHis grin widens as he turns to head back, beckoning me to come along and I can see Maki's head turning discreetly to watch us go as we move past the entrance.\nInterestingly enough, he doesn't lead me upstairs. Instead, we venture further into the agency, toward the back.\nHe stops in front of the break room door and holds his hand out to his side to guide me in, ever the gentleman.\nTaking the last few steps forward, I peer into the room to find one of the tables filled with food. Thankfully, it's not the one Taishiro bent me over the last time I was in this room. The last thing I need is another wild flashback in front of Fat Gum.\nHis nervous energy seems to be transferring to me and I bite the inside of my cheek, eyeing the food he has set out.\nIt's actually a really wonderful spread. There's rice of course, and there's a bowl of salad, baked fish, some takoyaki obviously for him, fried shrimp, miso soup, and a few other things.\nMy eyes slip toward the table I'd been on top of the last time I was in this room and, despite my efforts not to imagine it, I can recall the way it shook when Taishiro drove into me; how he pulled on my tail; the way he groaned when he slid his fingers inside of me.\nMy hand fists on my purse strap and I struggle to keep my wings from fluttering with excitement. I can't be thinking of these things right now! No matter how badly I want to feel strong, rough hands sliding down my-\n"Ai-chan," Fat interrupts my fantasy with a large hand at my arm and my tail straightens like a shocked cat's before I force myself to relax from the surprise. He's really made me jumpy lately. He doesn't seem to notice my reaction, though.\n"Oh, sorry," I say, ducking my head to hide what is likely a very lewd expression, "I was just... taking it all in."\n"I hope something here catches your eye," he jokes, approaching the table like a girl on a game show revealing the grand prize, "I didn't know what to get you for a drink, though. I've only ever seen you drink water and I don't know if that's what you really like to drink so much as have to."\nAlways so considerate. Most people would just assume water was the only thing I drink. He seems to understand me, though, as far as my eating and drinking habits are concerned.\n"Tea," I state simply, "I like all kinds of tea. Hot, cold, whatever. I'll try all kinds. For now though I'll just get some green tea." I'm referring to the vending machine on the far wall and step toward it now.\n"Hang on," Fat stops me with a tap to my shoulder, "I might have something you'll like. A fan brought some tea in for me a while back and I haven't opened it yet. Wait here, I'll go grab it."\n"Alright," I say, settling back and pulling a chair out to sit.\nHe rushes off, the clomping of his boots disappearing down the hall until it's silent again.\nI eyeball the food set out in front of me and sneak a small sample of the shrimp, unsurprised to find it's absolutely delicious. Fat Gum knows what he's doing in the kitchen alright. I wonder if I could bribe him to make me dinner some time...\nWhat would I even offer him, though? An invite to a fashion show?\nSomething inside of me suggests, He's your friend. You could just ask.\nAnd he's so nice, I bet he'd say yes. But that feels like taking advantage.\nNo... I want to offer him something as valuable as what he would be doing for me. I want us to be even.\nMaybe I could buy the food and he could cook it? Yeah... that's a thought...\nTrying to keep from being tempted by more shrimp before he gets back, I scan the room and my eyes land on that table that just keeps pulling my attention toward it like a magnet. It looks just like all the other tables in this room. Why does it seem to keep calling out to me? So what, I let a guy fuck my brains out on it. Does that mean I need to be turned on every single time I look at it? Who gets turned on by a table?\nA thought crosses my mind and I try to push it away. No! I am not a voyeur! I don't get off on that stuff!\nBut then my mind goes back to how Taishiro leaned over me, his thumb stroking my clit, and my horniness overcomes my better sense.\nIf I'm fast I can do this before Fat gets back, I'm sure. I'd be able to hear those thundering footsteps coming down the hall long before he got here anyway.\nGrabbing my phone and hurrying over to the table, I climb up on top of it.\nI lay myself back, splaying my wings out underneath me and lifting the phone in selfie mode above me.\nThe light vest I'm wearing is already open and all I need to do is lift my cami up to my neckline. I'm not wearing a bra so my breasts are on display, ready for the photo I intend to send to Taishiro.\nOh, he's gonna lose it with this one...\nMaking sure it's obvious where I am by the background, I push my breasts together with one arm and the hand not holding the phone, then take a couple shots and examine the outcome.\nDamn! That is hot! My teeth drag along my lower lip just imagining what Taishiro will say- what he'll do- when he sees them.\nMy cami is back down, covering me again, and I'm sending the pictures off with a teasing "Wish you were here" when I hear a throat clearing and I bolt upright to find Suneater in the doorway holding what looks to be a bento box tied in a cloth.\n"Oh! Suneater! Um... hi."\nFuck! Again?! I hope he wasn't standing there long!\nNo... he couldn't have seen anything. He's not the type to just watch someone creepily. He would've been long gone by now if he'd seen me with my shirt up.\n"I-" his face is tinged with red and he's staring at the ground as though it's the only thing he can see. "I'm sorry. You seem busy. I'll just-"\n"No! No. I'm sorry! I- Well I have no good excuse..." I admit, hopping down off the table, "I'll clean it off for you if you want to sit here!"\nThank All Might he wasn't a few seconds earlier... The kid has unfortunate timing but at least his timing isn't so bad that he's had to witness even worse things.\nSuneater sighs, glancing at the food set out on the other table. "It's okay. It looks like you and Fat have something going on here so I'll just head out-"\n"We don't!" I interrupt, remembering the way he and Fat's other employees looked at us last time I was here, "There's nothing going on! Please, I know you caught me with- with Taishiro so I don't know what you think of me but I wouldn't- I'm not like that. Fat-kun is my friend."\nSuneater's eyes finally lift from the floor and he meets mine for the first time... ever, I think.\nHis dark eyes pierce mine and it feels like he's staring into my soul, his gaze is so intense.\n"I know you're not. It's not my place to say what's really going on here, but... Fat means a lot to me, I would do my best best to protect him if I thought he were being hurt. But I know you're not being harmful."\nI never thought Suneater would say so much to me, much less reassure me that he doesn't think ill of me. It must've been hard to face me with how much his anxiety overwhelms him.\n"Thank you, Suneater," I say with sincerity, giving him a heartfelt smile which he promptly turns his eyes away from. That must've been a bit too much to handle, I guess.\n"I'm still gonna go, though," he mumbles, pointing back down the hall, "Have a good lunch, Ai-senpai."\nAi-senpai...\nBefore I get the chance to protest again, he walks off and disappears out the front door. I suppose he'll find a bench or table at the park a few blocks away. He'd probably be more comfortable there than sitting in a mostly empty room, listening to Fat and I talk- or worse, in his opinion, try to include him in our conversation. I know Fat would definitely try. He seems to want to push Suneater to come out of his shell.\nTurning back toward the breakroom, I realize that Fat Gum's been gone for a pretty decent amount of time. Too long to have just gone up to grab something from his office and head back down. The food is gonna get cold, if it hasn't already.\nShould I go check on him? I doubt he's run into any trouble... Maybe he got an important call?\nIt could be any number of things really, and I doubt he needs my help, but I'm feeling antsy. I really want that food and I have to admit I'm curious what the hold-up is.\nMy heels make their usual clacking sounds on the tile floor as I head down the hall and up the stairs toward Fat's office. Well, I definitely won't be sneaking up on any private conversations, that's for sure.\nRight as I reach the top, I see him exiting his office with what I can only assume is a tin of the tea he spoke about and his gaze is fixed on his phone in his hand. The way he's staring at it looks like he's gotten some pretty shocking news.\n"Everything okay?" I try to notify him of my presence since he seems to not have noticed me so far.\n"Aiko!" he says in a higher pitched voice than usual, looking startled, and he nearly drops the tin.\nHis mortified expression when he sees me makes it seem like he's just been caught stealing cookies from the cookie jar and a bright shade of red spreads across his cheeks. "I- I was just coming down!'\nFat quickly shoves his phone into his jacket pocket as he starts walking rapidly toward me and the stairs.\n"Is everything okay?" I repeat as I turn to go back down with him.\n"Yeah! Yes. Everything is fine. It's great! I'm great. Are you doing okay?" he chatters almost nonsensically.\n"Uh... yeah, I'm okay. Hungry though," I answer, trying to hold back a laugh. Why is he acting so nervous all of a sudden? "I can carry the tin if you want so you can handle whatever phone thing you were doing." I offer my hand for him to place the tin in.\nHis face seems to get even redder and he shakes his head. "Nonono! It's fine! I don't need to do anything on my phone. Don't worry about it."\nLowering my hand, I give him an "Okay..."\nHe's acting kinda weird but I have to assume it's something he doesn't want me prying into or else he probably would've told me what happened right away. He seems really embarrassed by it, whatever it is. Part of me wants to keep pushing at him about it, just to see him keep stammering and his face grow redder. But I'll be kind this once. After all, he might not feed me if I'm mean to him.\nWe get back to the break room to find that the food is indeed cold, as I had suspected.\n"Sorry, this is my fault," Fat sighs, "we have a microwave, though, if you're okay with heating some things up that way."\n"I don't care," I say, already grabbing the shrimp to reheat.\nWhile I'm doing that, Fat sets some water to boil to make the tea he brought down.\n"What is it?" I ask with interest, leaning toward him to look into the tin.\n"Smell." He holds the tin out under my nose and I take a tentative sniff.\nA familiar scent curls in my nose, sending a tingling sensation down my spine.\n"Cinnamon..." I breathe out huskily, needing to swallow as my salivary glands seem to be working overtime right now. I'm relieved I never told him what his and Taishiro's lust smells like or he'd know that the look of excitement on my face isn't just at the thought of trying such a delicious beverage.\n"It's apple cinnamon actually. I've had it for a while but I could never find a good time to drink it. It always seemed like a cold weather type of tea. But sharing it with you seems as good a time as any."\n"Thanks," I say, patting his arm, "If you want, let's save some and drink it when it gets colder too."\nFat gets a weird expression on his face for a moment, like he's unsure how to answer or is trying to figure out how to say something. My suggestion couldn't have been that odd, could it?\nBut then the expression is gone and he's back to looking relaxed.\n"That sounds great," he says in a warm, inviting tone with a smile to match that I can feel down to my bones. He always manages to make me grin back at him when he gets that smile on his face.\nWhen everything that should be hot is the right temperature again, we're finally able to sit down and eat. I must've been here for a half hour already so I hope I'm not keeping him from anything important. I'm sure he'd excuse himself if that were the case, though.\nFinally, we're having a relatively peaceful lunch and our conversation is flowing nicely. It feels so easy to talk to him about anything; even going back to the subject of our quirks. I don't feel as hesitant to discuss the ins and outs of mine anymore. It's clear to me that every question he asks is him just wanting to learn more about a quirk he's never heard of and not some perverted desire to hear about my sex life. I feel comfortable answering him, even discussing my wings and tail in further detail. That is, until he broaches on a more sensitive topic.\n"I'm not trying to be rude when I ask this. I'm just wondering," he says, his chubby cheeks coloring with a cute shade of pink and I send him an amused look. "Have you ever tried... with women?"\nNow I'm the one blushing a far deeper shade of scarlet than his. I know he's only asking this for the sake of learning more about my quirk but it's still a deeply personal question. He won't judge me for my answer, though. Right?\n"Yes," I tell him, a smile curling at my lips, hiding my embarrassment with flirtation to fake my confidence on the subject, "It works just as well with girls."\nHis eyebrows go so high, I think they might disappear into his hairline.\n"Ah... well," he stammers, his cheeks now getting darker as he looks away from my smirking face. His embarrassment seems to feed my confidence. "Right. So... so why don't you... pick up girls? Were you just experimenting when you found this out or..."\nI quirk a brow at him and wait for him to peek at me- which he does- then choose to answer, "I like girls too, if that's what you're asking. I'm just... shy around girls I like."\nNow I have his full attention again, his own brows creasing.\n"You're shy... around girls..." he asks, bewilderment written all over his face. It's actually pretty comical.\n"Girls I like," I correct. That's an important distinction.\n"But you're a model," he considers, "how do you..."\n"First of all," I roll my eyes at him, "I never said I couldn't function, I just can't hit on them... like at all... I just get really quiet and shy and say dumb things sometimes."\nHe nods his head in understanding, "I see. Sorry."\nI shrug it off, continuing with my explanation, "Secondly, most models aren't my type. I like short, athletic girls. Most models are tall and thin or curvy."\n"Oh...." is all he says, looking back toward his food like he's concentrating on it fiercely.\nI guess this line of questioning is through.\n"Are you afraid of picking up girls too?" I wonder aloud, "I don't know why you don't have a girlfriend or a wife or something. You just turned... what, 30?"\nHe nods and makes a discomforted face but doesn't side-step the question. I suppose he thinks it only fair since he sprung a personal question on me.\n"No, I'm not afraid of girls or 'picking them up', although I'm pretty sure you can tell that I don't really have it in me to just 'pick up' girls..."\nI grin at him, "Oh I know, you big softie. You're the type who'd get feelings from a one night stand, I bet."\nHis face reddens and not only do I know I've hit the mark, I'm pretty sure I nailed it right on the head. I wonder how the girl felt about it... I also kinda wonder how she handled him in bed... Ah fuck, now I'm thinking about Fat Gum in bed. Between the two of us, I'm the one who's the pervert. Do I know no shame? I'm sleeping with his brother.\n"I don't really have a lot of time for dating or relationships," he goes on, "My job takes up almost all of my time. But, I'd also really have it no other way. I love it and I love mentoring the kids who work for me."\n"Well... do you even want a wife?" I know I'm prying with that question but I can't stop myself. I'm actually pretty curious about his personal life.\n"Eventually, I suppose I want everything. A wife, kids, a dog named Pochi..."\n"Pfft Pochi?" I cackle, slapping the table.\nHe laughs too but his cheeks are a dark pink like this is something difficult for him to admit. "Maybe not Pochi, but you get what I mean."\nI sober a little upon taking in his bashful expression. He's sharing something with me he clearly doesn't talk to many people about.\n"Hey," I say, wishing I could put a hand on his head like a comforting senpai but settle for just his shoulder instead, "When you find the right person, it won't even be hard to make the time for them. They'll just fit right into your life and be impossible to imagine out of it. You're a good guy. Like, a really good guy. She'll come along one day and she's gonna be crazy about you, I'm positive."\nHe looks hesitant and I can tell he's starting to clam up like he does when I bring up Taishiro. I suppose he's as done with this discussion about women as I am so I let it go.\nRemoving my hand, I pick up my cup of tea to drain the rest of the contents. Most of the food is gone now and I'm almost regretful to admit that it seems like our lunch is coming to an end. But I did enjoy finally having this successful meal with him.\n"Well, I suppose I should let you get back to work," I suggest, changing the subject for his comfort for the second time today. When did I become so merciful? I should make a mental note to tease him extra hard the next time he gets embarrassed about something. I enjoy watching him bluster and turn red and I've let him off the hook too many times today. I have to get my thrills somehow.\n"Yeah..." Fat agrees with a smaller voice than usual. Damn, I wonder if I really said something wrong to him about the whole wife thing. Maybe it's a really sore subject.\nI wanted to say something to him about maybe doing lunch again some time. Maybe it could be a weekly thing. Now I'm not sure if I should say much more than goodbye before I leave.\n"Ai-chan," he says, bringing his eyes up to mine and he has a similar look to his face like the one that passed over it when he was making the tea earlier.\n"Yeah, Fat-kun?" I respond, a pressure starting to build up in my stomach as I watch indecision swirling in those yellow orbs.\n"I..." he swallows, hesitates, then looks away again, his shoulders drooping a tad, "I'm sorry lunch got a bit messed up again today. Maybe we should... try to reschedule one more time?"\nI hesitate as well at that. I was half a second away from telling him "No! Lunch was great! Everything was great! I had lots of fun!" Because all of those things are true. But wasn't I just wanting to bring up doing this regularly?\n"Yeah," I answer, getting a sassy twist to my lips, "But next time I'm just eating without you if you make me wait."\nHe seems a bit more relieved at my response and chuckles in that soothing way he does. "That seems fair."\n"It might be a while, though. You know I have to go to Tokyo on Thursday," I warn, "I probably won't be back for four or five days this time..."\nHe nods in acknowledgement.\n"Oh!" I say a little too loudly as I recall something I should be telling him, "That reminds me! Bombshell is coming with me. I'm getting her into my agency. My manager also said she'd consider taking her on. Everything is going well on that front. We even got lucky and Jared is coming back to do a shoot. He specifically requested I be in it actually so I'm gonna take Bombshell along with... me..."\nMy words leave me as I watch Fat Gum's face go from interested to angered. Did I say something wrong?\n"When did you find out Jared was coming back?" Fat questions, his voice hard now.\n"Um... Yesterday. Tomoyo called and she told me he would be there."\n"And you didn't tell me about it? I'm supposed to be your contact. You're supposed to tell me if you found out anything about him coming back to Japan."\nI blink at him, confused. "But... Bombshell was right there. I just told her. She's the one going undercover after all. I figured she would report anything important. Besides, I did tell you just now."\nFat pushes his hood back, running his fingers through his extremely messy blonde hair.\n"Bombshell is still a side-kick," he sighs, "And, I... I just needed to know, Aiko. This is important. I know nothing is confirmed yet but I want you to assume that this guy could be dangerous. He could be trying to kidnap you. He could've kidnapped countless women before you."\nHe's telling me this like I didn't read the same exact report he did. Fat has never talked down to me before. Hearing him like this upsets me for some reason. I want to say I feel pissed but, honestly, I'm more surprised and... hurt.\nMy defensiveness flares and I put on a stoic face, unwilling to show how hurt I really am.\n"Well, now you know," I say in a clipped tone.\nI stand up and start clearing the empty plates and platters, readying them to go to the sink, but not saying anything more on the matter.\n"Don't worry about those," Fat says, waving his hand over the table to signify I should stop my work.\n"Fine," I bite out, huffing in frustration.\nI set the plates down on the table a little too harshly and pick up my purse instead, turning on my heel to exit the room.\n"Aiko, hang on!" Fat says and I spin as I reach the doorway.\nI forget to school my face for just the barest of a second and yet he manages to see my true feelings immediately with those overly observant eyes. Can't he just not notice my weakness for once?\n"I'm sorry I said it like that. I didn't mean to-"\n"You didn't. Forget it," I snap before he can tell me he knows he hurt my feelings. "Don't think you can upset me that easily."\n"Right... Sorry..." He rubs at his head before he speaks up again, "I'm just worried about you. I don't want something to happen to you. I know we don't talk about it but I still think about that day..."\nWhen he says "that day" I know he means the day he found me on the floor in his office, possibly dying.\nI clench my jaw at his reminder. On the one hand, it was a day that solidified our friendship and made him nearly indispensable to me. On the other, I still feel heat burn at my cheeks any time I think about how I behaved toward him and the fact that I feared I was dying. Who wants to be reminded of the day that they almost died?\n"I don't," I lash out, wanting to move past this subject quickly. Every time he opens his mouth it feels like a harder punch to the gut, "And I don't know what that has to do with this."\nHis expression is no longer angered. Instead he wears a look of intense worry, almost, if not more, anxious than how I've seen Suneater look.\n"I know you're not scared of him- of any of this- at least not for yourself," he says with upturned brows, his honey-colored eyes not hiding his worry at all. He's always willing to show me the way he's truly feeling and it makes me feel guilty sometimes that I'm never as honest as that. "But I'm scared, Aiko. I don't want to see you like that again. I'm sorry I reacted that way, I just... don't like to think what could happen to you and being surprised with information like that out of nowhere- knowing you're suddenly about to see someone who could be so dangerous- it startled me."\nAh dammit. He's always so damn genuine and open. I've only ever thought of how difficult that day was for me. I never once considered how traumatic something like that might've been for him.\n"I... I want to go with you too this weekend," he blurts out unexpectedly and my brain comes to a screeching halt. I can hardly figure out how to process what he just requested.\n"Wait. What?"\n"I'll check with the others to see if it's a good idea first but, if you'll let me, I want to come and watch your back. I don't feel right watching you walk into possible danger without backup."\n"Fat-kun..." I'm not sure what I can say. He's being protective and I actually like someone wanting to protect me for fucking once in my life. At the same time, how would I ever explain away a hero following me around? If it had been easy to infiltrate the modelling world like that, we wouldn't have gone through all the trouble of getting Whitney in there.\nHe just stares at me with his golden eyes shining brightly and I'm struggling to tell him no outright. It's hard to want to say no when you'd prefer to say yes.\nSighing and checking my nails for any imperfections, I relent because I guess I'm weak, "The shoot is Thursday afternoon. If you can think up a reason for you to be there with me, you can come. But I don't think you should be there the rest of the weekend. You said you didn't want me walking into danger. Well, that's the only time I might be doing that so you should leave the rest of it to me and Bombshell."\nFat considers this for a few seconds then nods in acceptance. "That's good enough."\nI head out a few minutes later after saying my goodbyes and greeting Red and Steel as they walk in the door.\nBut as I step onto the train headed back toward my apartment, I realize Fat and I never made lunch plans for next week after I get back.\nFor some reason I can't place, that bothers me immensely.\n

Chapter 10:\nTaishiro: Meet me for dinner tonight?\nWhen the text comes in as I get in the door of my apartment, I stare at it for a few minutes wondering if I read it wrong. Is Taishiro asking me... on a date?\nOn one hand, I'm disappointed he didn't say anything about the picture I sent him earlier today. On the other, my heart is leaping. We've never really done something so date-like before. This would be our first time out as... whatever we are.\nI can't get this stupid grin off of my face. It feels like it's been months since I last saw him instead of barely two weeks.\nOkay now. Calm down. No need to flip out. Answer him like a composed, mature adult.\nAiko: Ok\nNice.\nAiko: When?\nI have to keep from chewing my thumbnail as I wait for his reply and my wings rustle restlessly behind me.\nHe's not answering immediately so I take my phone with me to the bathroom as I get undressed for the shower. If we're going out, I need to clean myself up first. Not that I didn't put any effort in when I had lunch with Fat today. But I don't feel pressured to put on a bunch of makeup and fancy outfits when we meet up. I could wear cut-offs and a t-shirt and not worry about him thinking I'm sloppy or tacky.\nMy phone buzzes and I practically snatch it off the counter in the middle of pulling my cami over my head.\nTaishiro: 6?\nI check the time. It's a little after 3 now.\nAiko: 6 is perfect\nHe names a station that's only a couple stops away from mine and I agree, still trying to keep my eagerness in check. I should have plenty of time to shower and get ready before I catch the 5:30 train as long as I don't spend an hour just picking out my outfit.\nIt almost scares me how crazy I am about this guy. Even I can tell I'm completely smitten with him. Now that I know he's not gonna run off after finding out about my quirk, I can't help the giddy feeling in me at the thought of seeing him and touching him and kissing him again. What has gotten into me?\nAfter showering and applying a layer of makeup, I fix my hair up in a high ponytail and put on some nice lacy panties (because I'm not gonna pretend I don't know where this will lead) under skin-tight faux leather pants with a nearly backless gold halter top. I don't usually wear tops like this because it's jarring to some people to see my wings just protruding out of my naked back but Taishiro's seen them. He's touched them. He isnt bothered by my odd physical characteristics. If anything, he seems to enjoy them.\nI finish the look with some chunky, black heels and a matching patent leather purse and head out the door at 5 o'clock sharp, ready to get my man.\nMy man?\nWell... yes I guess he might be. I hope he might be...\nSo much for not being the dating type...\nI easily make my train and stand toward the back doors that will be the ones to open when it's my stop. I face out the windows, as it's a little full from people making their commutes home after work and I have to tuck my wings and tail in close with all of these people around me. It would be a little weird if someone brushed up against them.\nThe first stop comes after about five minutes and the train gets a little fuller, making more people press in and I do my best to keep to my own little space next to the window. The next stop won't be for a while longer. It's a good thing I'm not claustrophobic.\n"Hey there, beautiful," a familiar warm voice pours into my ear like honey, lips softly brushing against it.\nA fire roars to life inside of me suddenly, it feels like every part of me is hyper sensitive and aware.\n"Tai-" he doesn't let me finish before covering my mouth with his hand that could easily engulf the whole of my face, dragging me back into his firm, muscled body.\nI'm nearly drowned in the essence of mouth-watering cinnamon when my back hits his chest, his hardness pressing against my lower back and making me want to squirm. I can hardly even move with the way his left hand is on my abdomen, holding me against him.\nHis thumb strokes at my cheek tenderly as he speaks into my ear, "You've been driving me out of my mind. That phone call. Sending me pictures, even when you're at my agency and anyone could've caught you. Do you know what you do to me?"\nSo this is his response to those pictures earlier.\nI back my ass further into him to tell him I know exactly what I do to him and that I like it very much.\nThe miniscule moan he releases directly into my ear travels straight down my spine and makes my core pool with heat.\n"You like that you sent me a picture like that, where anyone could've just walked in on you half-naked?"\nUnable to answer verbally, I nod instead, frenzy building up inside of me. He's making me so damn hot and I want to fuck him so badly, it's almost painful. I'm already trying to think of where we can go after we get off this infernal train so I can do just that. Can't this thing go any faster?!\n"So you don't mind if I..." he trails off but my attention goes to his left hand as he starts to move it lower and lower and lower, sliding beneath the waistband of my pants. A gasp escapes from my throat.\nWait. Does he mean to touch me? Here? ON THE TRAIN?!\nWe're surrounded by people. Any one of them could be watching or hearing every word. We could get in trouble for public indecency!\nA small grunt issues from my mouth to sound my protestation.\n"Shhhhh," he whispers and I still at his voice, anticipation mounting as his hand continues to move lower in my pants, under my panties, "You want to be dirty in a public place? I'll make that happen for you."\nI want to tell him "No! I'm embarrassed! I don't want to get caught! I'm scared!" but all of those feelings just increase my frenzy for some reason. My breaths are coming faster now as his hand draws ever closer. I can feel his fingertips only just a couple inches away from where I want them to be.\nI do want this. I wish I'd worn a skirt so he could've lifted it and fucked me with everyone around us none the wiser. Am I really that much of a pervert?\nYes. You little freak.\nMy thoughts cease altogether when I feel the barest brush of his fingertip against the slickness of my sex and I immediately melt into him, bucking my hips. I bite back a whine that almost breaks from my throat, practically holding my breath until the instinct to do so passes.\nHe sighs into my ear once more, making the tiny hairs that escaped my ponytail dance at my temple. "You're always so wet for me, honey. I love it."\nThat name pierces me every time he uses it. My heart beats faster and my body feels hotter when he calls me that. It's starting to mean something to me.\n"You gotta be quiet now," he murmurs softly, nipping at my ear gently just before his fingers find that most sensitive bundle of nerves at the apex of my slit.\nI have to squeeze my eyes shut to keep from crying out immediately. I've been craving this touch, practically begging for it with every text, every phone call. I wonder if he knows that?\nHe doesn't give me a break, though, circling the small bud, then gently applying pressure as he strokes me slowly back and forth, his finger almost reaching my entrance before returning to my clit.\nI'm gonna go crazy. This kind of lazy stroking leaves me aching for more attention at my clit. But he ignores any time I risk making a thrust into his hand.\n"You like this?" his voice intones deeply into my ear, "You like that someone could look at you any second and we could be caught?"\nAgain, I want to moan at how he's talking and the way I'm practically shaking at his touch but I obediently keep silent, nodding my head furiously.\n"And after this, do you want me to take you somewhere so you can be as loud as you want when I bend you over and give you exactly what you've been asking for these past couple weeks?"\nOh god, is he trying to make me cum with just his words?\nTwo sides of me are warring with each other. One wants this train to move faster so he can do exactly as he promises. The other wants this train to move slower so he can keep his hands down my pants and finger me until I cum.\nI nod again, my breathing picking up as he puts more focus on my clit now.\n"I wish I could be doing this with my tongue," he whispers, his voice hoarse with lust, "I bet you taste so sweet."\nOh fuck, I didn't think he could say something even hotter. The thought of his tongue between my thighs, stroking between my folds, sucking on my clit makes my knees weak and I can hardly tell if I'm holding myself up or if he is anymore.\nThe barest of whimpers escapes me and I immediately hold my breath, looking around to make sure no one heard or is looking over at me.\nSighing in relief when I find no one watching, I hear his delicious chuckle at my ear again.\n"You like that idea?"\nI don't nod at him this time. Instead pushing myself back into him and attempting to grind myself against his groin.\nI know my bit of misbehavior has the exact effect I want it to when I feel his cock twitch against me and a tiny grunt escapes his own lips.\nHis fingers move faster, though and he quickly pulls his right hand from my mouth to catch me and keep me upright as I collapse against his body, lost in the pleasure and his tantalizing scent.\nFuck me, how does he know exactly how to touch me to make me writhe in ecstasy?\nA chime sounds, signalling our stop has come up and Taishiro swiftly removes his hand from my pants leaving me feeling cold and extremely unsatisfied.\nNo no no!\nThen the train stills and the doors open, allowing us to exit and I immediately rush out, whirling on him when we get far enough away to not be in the line of traffic.\nEverything I'm about to say to him flies out of my head. It's almost like I'm seeing him again for the first time in that alleyway. He looks... Wow...\nHe's wearing a white dress shirt with some dark grey slacks- both of which look brand new- and his hair, while still rather messy, looks like that's more of a style to the messiness instead of it just sticking out at every angle.\nHe's grinning at me in that carefree way of his, as though he hadn't just had his hand down my pants seconds ago.\n"You're looking particularly gorgeous today," he says, brushing his fingers along my jaw and my heart stutters in my chest, my wings fluttering at my back.\nHis cinnamon scent is still reaching my nose, but it's softer now, fading away as his glittering gold eyes watch mine\n"You're terrible," I say, finally managing to get my brain to work, "teasing me like that."\nHe takes a step toward me, getting into my personal space in order to lean down and breathe into my ear, "And you aren't? You don't know how many times I looked at those pictures and wanted to touch you, kiss you, do... other things."\nMy skin prickles at the shy way he says "other things", too embarrassed to tell me he wanted to fuck me. It's one of the things I adore about him. I love pushing at him until he loses control and starts manhandling me.\nI grab his hand and spin, pulling him with me along the walkway while my eyes search for my query.\nHe obliges, seemingly content to let me drag him along, until I've found my mark and start pulling him toward the nearest restroom.\n"Aiko!" he halts us, looking toward where I'm headed, "What are we doing?"\n"Other things," I purr suggestively, yanking on his hand once more. But he stays put, instead pulling me into him and encircling me in his arms.\n"Oh no, darling," he speaks quietly in my ear, "You tortured me and made me want you for days on end. I couldn't even sleep without you in my dreams in that cute little thong. Now you get to wait."\n"You..." I growl in frustration.\n"Come on," he coaxes me with that heart-rending smile of his as he lets me go, only keeping hold of my hand to keep pulling me away, "I promise, you'll still have fun."\nSettling a pout on my face until I feel otherwise inclined to remove it, I allow him to drag me along.\nI'm still gonna jump him if I get the opportunity, though.\nBut the opportunity never really comes. Taishiro takes me to a gorgeous restaurant that has plenty of different food options. I order a salad for myself but I'm none too surprised to see him order 3 different dishes. That's pretty tame for a Toyomitsu if I'm to judge by how Fat Gum eats.\nOver dinner, we discuss how our weeks went, though he's a bit vague on his part save for telling me a story about how he thought he'd been trying to save a kid from jumping off a building only to find that the kid was practicing parkour. It had been an awkward mistake for him, but a hilarious story for me.\nI'm also a little vague when I tell him about taking an aspiring model under my wing and how excited I am to see her succeed. Of course, I leave out the part where she's actually a hero in an investigation but it's enough information for him to understand that this means a lot to me.\nAfter dinner, we take the scenic route back toward the train station, stopping by a few stands to pick out snacks (mostly for him) and looking in store windows when I spot a purse or dress that interests me. I try to be merciful, though, and keep from actually going in and buying anything. I love shopping, but once I get started, it'll be hours before I'm done.\nThe station is ridiculously crowded when we finally make it back. Apparently, there was a huge concert nearby and it let out only moments ago.\nWe have to hold hands in order to not lose each other in the throng but I can't say that I'm complaining. His hand holding onto mine feels so warm and makes butterflies flit around in my stomach. No matter what situation we find ourselves in, Taishiro always manages to make me feel like a school-girl with a crush. My heart has never raced this fast over someone's hand in mine until now.\nWhen we finally make it onto the train headed toward my apartment, we have to squeeze in close to allow for all of the passengers. My chest is pressed against him, his back against a pole in the middle of a sea of people.\nOnce more, I tuck my tail and wings in tight, not wanting to feel someone accidentally brushing up against them. Riding in a crowded train always makes me so anxious.\nMy anxiety falls away, though, when Taishiro's arms wrap around me, pulling me closer and shielding my wings from any outside contact. His protectiveness is so sweet and... kinda hot.\nAnd, all at once, as though a dam has broken in my mind, I remember what I wanted from him only a couple hours ago; the way his fingers pushed into my panties and sent fire spreading throughout my entire body.\nLooking up into his eyes, all I need to do is lick my lips and I see a flame reignite in them.\nI press in closer and I can see him struggling not to kiss me right here and now, his eyes getting darker and darker as his pupils grow with his desire.\nI can hardly even breathe now as we make our way back toward my apartment, exchanging heated stares in the silence of the train. It feels like an eternity as we wait for one stop, then the next.\nWhen it finally reaches my station, we push our way through to the exit as quickly as we can and head out and down the sidewalk toward my building as though the key to our survival is sitting in my apartment.\nHe never stops touching me the entire time we're walking down the street and I'm biting my lip so hard, it's starting to feel sore. The way his thumb strokes at my hip, where his hand rests deceptively casual, sends jolts of electricity directly to my core, making my panties feel more and more restricting. I need to be free of them as soon as humanly possible.\nThank All Might we only have to walk a block. If I had to walk five, I would've dragged him into an alley and had my way with him. A fact I am not proud of, yet know to be true.\nThe moment we make it inside the building, we head toward the elevators and I jab that button harder than I think I ever have before and we wait another small eternity while we stare hungrily at each other as I imagine a starving wolf might stare at a deer.\nMy cheeks must be a bright red with how hot I feel when the ding of the elevator finally arriving makes me break my connection with Taishiro as we step into it and I once again jab the button that will take us to my floor, hitting the "Close Door" button repeatedly .\nI can hear him chuckling as he watches me and I whirl on him, jumping at him before the doors are even completely closed.\n"I'm going to fuck you until you're begging me to stop," I snarl, slamming him back into the wall of the tiny square room. I think I might've felt the whole elevator shudder at that.\nHis responding grin as he pulls me closer invites me to try and I take that challenge to heart.\nWasting no more time, I grab a fistful of his shirt and pull him down to my waiting lips, groaning as he parts his for me and that heavenly flavor saturates my tongue. He's so damn delicious, it drives me insane with need.\nHis glove-like hands are at my back now, sliding lower and lower until they reach my ass and come to a stop, settling on cupping it delicately.\nStepping closer, I straddle his well-muscled thigh and I feel his body tensing for just a second when he notices my warmth against his leg. Then, he digs his fingers in, the faux leather making squelching sounds under his touch as I begin grinding against him, groaning wantonly.\nThe way he moves against me, his hardness growing and throbbing at my hip, tells me that he is just as worked up as I am.\nI'm so turned on, I'm aching to feel him inside of me. Are we even going to make it to my apartment? Part of me wonders if I have time to make something happen right now.\nOnce again, I'm cursing myself for wearing these horribly sadistic pants. Why? WHY DID I DO THIS?! I'm only ever wearing dresses from now on!\nTaishiro bends his knee slightly, giving me more of a surface as I move against his leg. The way his fingers are digging into me, pushing me along only adds to my frenzy.\nThe friction is nearly unbearable and I have to pull back after a moment, breaking our kiss.\nWhen I examine him again, hair back to being mussed like it usually is, breathing heavily with the most tempting bulge in his pants, I feel proud of what a mess I've made of him. His lips are almost red with how much action they've already seen. And they'll be seeing much more if I have anything to say about it.\nHis eyes are smoldering at me, waiting for me to make another move. I love when he's anticipating what I might do to him next. What a sweet well-behaved boy.\nI press my body flush with his, giving his mouth a small peck before turning my back to him, letting him feel every curve of my breasts, hip, and waist, before I settle into place, my ass just barely reaching high enough to be able to grind against his length and my tail curling possessively around his thigh.\nTaishiro lets out a low growling sound when I roll my hips back and I feel his cock throb.\nHis hands are at my thighs, short nails grazing the slick fabric. I think they should be put to better use.\nTaking both of his hands in my own delicate ones, I push them up under my top, obviously toward my breasts and he takes the hint, eagerly filling each hand with my soft flesh and kneading as he rolls my nipples between his fingers.\nI let out a small whimper, pushing back against him again and he seems to come undone, responding with his own, more forceful, thrust.\n"Are you gonna give me what I asked for?" I pant out, moving my hips steadily against his now.\nWith his lips at the crux between my neck and shoulder he answers breathily, "I told you I would. Don't think I've forgotten." He thrusts against my ass again just to remind me of exactly what I'd begged him for over the phone a week ago, making me feel jittery with excitement. I need this man inside me now.\nAs the elevator comes to a halt, we straighten up, making sure our clothes are properly arranged again, and I pick up my purse that I discarded at some point before the doors open and we step out into cooler air. We must've heated that small box up quite a bit to notice a difference like that.\nI turn to Taishiro, and I see in his eyes that he's recalling something that has just come to my own mind. The night we met, he carried me to my door from this point. He made me feel normal for once, small enough to be carried and handled like I always secretly wished I could be.\nI can see the decision made in his eyes before he lifts me again, cradling me in his arms, though holding me closer than I recall him doing last time as he begins walking us down the hall.\nI lean close, taking in that delectable cinnamon scent as I look up at him. His gorgeous molten gold eyes are searching my face, looking desirous and reverent at the same time, a gentle curl to his lips.\n"I thought you were beautiful from the moment I met you," he says, giving me a warm feeling in my chest that's squeezing on my heart. "I knew I had to find out more about you when you turned on me with absolutely no fear in your eyes, just fight."\nI have to look away as my cheeks heat. His intentions were always so pure.\n"I just knew I wanted to get in your pants," I giggle nervously as my wings quiver. Though my expression sobers quickly, "but then..."\n"Then what?"\nIt's hard to talk about what I feel for him to his face. Of course I already know that there is an attraction between us, but emotions... that's a different story and not something we've actually talked about much.\n"You were... you. I had a crush on you in minutes. I'm sure you have a lot of fangirls who probably feel the same way."\nTaishiro chuckles at that. "Not as many as you'd think."\nI almost roll my eyes at him. He's probably ignorant of women who are attracted to him. After all, it took me dragging him into my apartment to get him to see just how badly I wanted him.\nBy now we've reached my door and he sets me down so I can dig out my keys. But his hands seem to be unable to stop touching me. The moment my feet hit the floor, his fingers are trailing up my back, giant palms grazing the velvety skin of my wings, making them spread in hopes of more of his probing.\nDoes he have to be so damn distracting? I've lost my grip on my keys twice now and, even though I've finally gotten hold of them, my hands are shaking so badly with anticipation that I'm struggling to get the key in the lock.\n"They're so soft," he comments, running the pads of his fingers up to the very tip of my right wing, "and beautiful."\n"They're awful," I say, unwilling to accept his compliments for a part of my body that has caused me a lot of grief in the past and still manages to do so now.\n"I like them," he says as he kisses along my shoulder, distracting me even further, "and your tail."\nMy tail curls as if it has a mind of its own and knows he's referring to it.\nThis damn key still won't go in!\n"You like them because they always tell you when I like what you're doing," I sigh forlornly.\n"Wait. They do?" he sounds shocked. Shit! Did he not notice that? Did I just tell on myself?\nLuckily, my key finally makes it into the lock and I turn it, shoving the door open.\nWithout another word, I pull him in after me and claim his mouth with mine, kicking the door shut behind us and discarding my purse on the floor.\nThat flavor rouses my lust again so quickly, I might as well have an "On" switch on my tongue.\nWe clumsily make our way back toward my room, shedding clothing as we go. I swiftly unfasten the buttons on his shirt while he unhooks the clasp on my halter top and pulls it over my head.\nI'm able to unbutton his pants as we make it to my room and he steps out of them before breaking our kiss and turning my back to him once more.\n"I've thought about this room- this bed- every single day since you sent me that picture," he purrs, pushing me toward the bed and following closely behind.\nMy hands land on the soft comforter, slightly bending over. But these damnable pants are still on!\n"I just want to let you know," he growls in frustration as he pulls roughly at them, "I hate these pants and I never want to see them again."\nHis words make me want to laugh since I'm feeling the exact same way. But he makes another stronger tug with both hands at either side of my hips and he actually rips the pants down the center seam, eliciting a gasp from me. If there is something that makes me damn near lose control, it's feeling just how powerful he is.\nHe kneels and yanks the fabric apart again on each leg, tearing the seams, and finally freeing me from my pleathery prison.\nThose massive hands are on my legs immediately, grabbing and scratching, and I nearly squeal when I feel his mouth at my upper thigh a moment later, moving upward.\n"Someone is impatient," I giggle, squeaking again when I feel his teeth sink into the thick curve of my asscheek.\nHe grunts in agreement, pulling his mouth away to command me, "On the bed."\nIt always seems like he's getting more and more sure of himself in the bedroom and every time he gets rough with me, by words or by actions, it sends shivers to the tip of my tail.\nI obey, crawling onto the bed, staying on my hands and knees and arching my back, much like I did for the picture I sent him.\n"You don't want to know how many times I touched myself looking at you like this," he growls, pulling himself up to a stand.\nI feel the warmth of his body against my backside, his length, still constrained in his boxers, making languorous strokes against my already soaked panties.\n"Yes I do," I say breathlessly, arching my back further to give him greater access and secretly hoping he'll tear these panties off too. "Why don't you show me what you wanted to do to me?"\nThat's all it takes for him to take hold of my panties and shred the lace, finally exposing me to him.\nThe growl that rumbles from deep in his chest is feral and ferocious when I press my naked sex against him again, rocking my hips slowly.\n"You're so fucking dirty," he growls low, wrapping his hand around the base of my tail and pulling me up to better slide along his cock.\nMy wings flutter at his words. He already has me whining and wanting more.\n"Every time I looked at those pictures, I wanted to touch you." He reaches his free hand around my hip and down my abdomen until he reaches my slit, not even hesitating to begin rubbing at my clit.\nI cry out at the sudden pressure and push my hips back against him again. "How- how many times did you look at them?"\n"Too... many..."\nAgain, my wings make their miniscule flapping motion and still.\nTaishiro pulls his hand away and releases my tail, making me groan in disappointment. But I feel them at my wings almost immediately, gliding across the thin membrane connecting each spine until he's touching my back. Then running his fingers along the tops of them, making them flare in excitement, until he reaches the tips.\nHe releases them and they stretch out once more before settling back down and folding in toward my back again.\n"They really do tell on you..."\nFuck. This again? I thought I'd distracted him from that little slip up.\n"I- What? I didn't-"\nThen he's burying his fingers inside of me and I gasp, nearly collapsing on the bed as he begins pulling them out and pushing them back in.\n"Taishiro," I whimper, my wings fanning out and I have to force them back in again.\n"Oh?" he purrs, "You were saying?"\nI don't even have it in me to deny anymore, I just want to focus on the way his thick fingers are fucking me and how I really wish it were his cock.\n"That's why they flapped so hard last time," he says, and I can hear the smirk on his lips.\nI can only respond with a desperate cry as he moves his fingers faster and I can feel my orgasm already mounting.\n"God, Aiko," he sighs, "Every time I learn something new about you... I just want to know more."\nI want to know you too...\nI want to say it but the way he's driving into me is making my brain fuzzy and all I can do is make another pathetic whine.\nMy pleasure is climbing higher and higher and I can't keep my wings from spreading out again, trying to catch the air.\n"No, not yet," he murmurs, withdrawing from me and leaving me feeling unsatisfied yet again.\nMy sexual frustration is starting to make me lose my mind.\n"Fuck. Me." I snap, glaring back at him and he pauses, tilting his head like a parent who's just been talked back to.\n"Excuse me?" he asks mildly, but something is glinting in his eyes that says he's feeling anything but.\n"Fuck me now or I'll-"\nA slapping sound fills the air and I hardly even know what's happened until I feel the sting on my ass.\nHe just spanked me!\nI'm shocked for a moment and don't know how to react until I see the way he's searching my face, trying to hide his concern that he might've actually hurt me this time.\n"You're gonna be sorry you-"\nHis hand smacks against my ass again and I yelp, that sharp sting showing up a second later.\n"You tortured me all week. I'm not the one who's gonna be sorry," he says in a low, dangerous voice that sends shivers down my spine.\nHe spanks me again and again and again until I'm crying out every time his hand comes down on me, my face and fists buried in my comforter.\n"I can't wait," he spanks me again, "to fuck," again, "this gorgeous ass."\nNow he halts his punishment, brushing his hand over one cheek, then the next, probably examining his handy work.\n"Please," I whisper to him and I know he's heard by the way his fingers twitch infinitesimally.\nWhat I wanted to say was "please fuck me. I need you right now" but all I could get out was that one desperate word.\nBut I'm sure he understands when he says, "Soon... Now tell me where your toys are."\nI point to the side-table next to him and feel him move away.\nHe wants my toys? Why? What is he about to-\nHis hands are on me again, but this time gentle and covered with the massage oil I keep with my toys. How did he know I would have that? Maybe that wasn't what he'd actually been looking for when he went in there and it was just luck for him?\nI barely care anymore as he massages the tender flesh he just gave a good spanking to.\n"Mmmmph," I moan, writhing underneath those thick, powerful hands. How does he know just how to touch me in every way I love?\nThe fingers kneading my ass start roaming deeper between my cheeks bit by bit, rubbing more oil all over.\n"I found something else," he purrs as he pulls his hands away again only to return with something small and cold that he drags along my heated skin now.\nI know the moment he says that, that he's found my butt plug. I've used it a few times here and there. It's small, definitely nowhere near his size, but my breath catches in anticipation of what he plans to do.\nI hear him squirting out what I assume is lube onto the little toy and I can't control the way my tail undulates in anticipation.\n"You ready, honey?" he asks, running his finger along my waiting entrance.\n"Y-yes," I squeak out, practically vibrating with my excitement.\nSo very very slowly, he slides the plug into my ass, seating it as deep as it can go.\n"Aiko, god..." he groans, caressing me again, "I want you so bad. You're gonna kill me. You're so damn amazing."\nI don't try to hide my wings fluttering this time as I reply in my weakened voice, "Taishiro... Fuck me... Please."\nAs though my begging flipped a switch in him, he flips me onto my back with no effort, glimmering eyes raking down my body, before he climbs up after me, his gigantic form hovering over mine.\nIt's hard not to notice, his boxers have disappeared as he slowly crawls on top of me. He must've removed them some time while I was distracted- which, now that I think about it, has been quite often.\nThe way he's looking at me has me breathless, waiting for him to touch me, kiss me, lick me again.\nWhen his head is near my bellybutton, he lowers it and begins kissing his way up my torso and I arch my back into the sensation.The warmth and wetness of his mouth on my skin sends heat straight to my core, reminding me of just how badly I'm aching for him.\nBut I have to be patient. I have to let him come to me. Tonight, he's clearly the one in control.\nHe reaches my breasts and delicately takes one of my nipples in his mouth, circling the small bud with his tongue before sucking with long, languid strokes.\nSighing, I tilt my head back and comb my fingers through his messy hair and he groans, sending vibrations through me that illicit a tiny moan from my own lips.\n"Taishiro," I whisper and he lets go of the small bud to look up at me, crawling closer now as he takes in my needy expression.\nHe's fully on top of me now, positioned nearly in the perfect spot to push inside me and I risk hooking my legs around his hips, my tail curled at his thigh.\nWe stay just like that and stare at each other for an untold amount of time.\nHis amber eyes soften toward me as we take each other in and I know that my time for punishment has passed. He's had enough of being rough with me. From now on, he'll only be gentle and caring.\n"You liked it slow last time?" he asks and I nod.\n"Yes."\n"Okay," is all he says before sinking into me, slowly burying himself all the way to the hilt and pulling a long groan from my lips.\nMy chest is heaving as I wait for him to begin moving inside of me. But he feels almost different, I realize. Is that the plug's doing?\n"Every... time..." he grunts, beginning to rock his hips at a leisurely pace against mine, "You feel so good."\nThe ache I've been feeling for hours is finally being relieved as I tilt my hips further up, letting a pleasured cry escape me.\nI can feel him throb inside of me when I make that sound and I smile at him, he loves when I'm loud. But I need to hold back. Later is when the screaming will happen.\n"Kiss me?" I ask submissively and he licks his lips before giving a small nod, lowering his mouth to my own.\nThe minute his tongue tangles with mine, I'm floating in a sea of ecstasy. It's already been too long since I've tasted the luxurious flavor of his lust since we broke our kiss when we entered the bedroom.\nMy tongue dances with his, my energy growing, strengthening me as I continue running my fingers through his slightly curled hair. It's always so soft and beautiful.\nAll the while, Taishiro is driving into me, making sure to hit the exact spot that brings me the most pleasure. I don't know exactly what's happening but it seems to be even more pleasurable with this plug in. He seems to be hitting every spot that drives me crazy.\nI feel it again, the wave of my orgasm building. If he denies me it again, I'm probably going to cry. But from the way that he's moving against me, I don't think he has any such plans.\nBreaking our kiss, I need to warn him. "Taishiro, I- I'm gonna-"\n"Cum for me, Ai-ch- Aiko," he stutters. He must be close too.\n"Fuck, Taishiro," I cry out, my voice pitching higher, "You feel so fucking good!"\nI'm so close to the edge now, my muscles are tensing and I squeeze him tight inside me.\nHe growls out an animalistic sound and makes one final hard thrust into me, sending me soaring over the edge, spasming as stars dance in front of my eyes.\nI hold onto him for dear life, gripping his hair and clenching my thighs around him while I ride out every wave that comes crashing down until I finally relax and fall against the bed, spent. But I should've realized that we weren't done yet.\nTaishiro is still hovering above me, watching with a fire still burning in his eyes.\n"You didn't cum?" I ask when I see the way he's looking at me.\nHe shakes his head. "You wanted something more from me, remember?"\nI freeze, my eyes widening with delight and heat pooling in my core once more. It only takes a few words out of that pouted mouth to make me hot for him all over again. I nod, a devious smile curling at my lips.\n"Then you better get ready," he leans in to murmur darkly in my ear. Then, he's backing up off me and sliding off the bed to give me room.\nI turn myself over onto my stomach and scooch back toward the edge of the bed, propping myself up on my knees, ass in the air, ready for the treat I begged for over the phone.\nImmediately, Taishiro's hands on my ass- probing, squeezing, groping- make me squirm with anxiousness. I'm so fucking ready to try something new with him.\n"Are you ready?" he asks. The same question he asked when he inserted the plug, now asking for permission to remove it.\nHe's gingerly stroking his fingers back and forth over the flower embellishment at the top as he waits for my answer, sometimes pushing lower to graze along my folds.\n"Yes," I tell him, pushing back to try and gain more friction from his hand but he's already stopped, instead taking hold of the plug and pulling ever so gently until it's removed.\nIt feels almost like a relief to have it out, but at the same time, I feel empty. I'm still needy.\nI hear him popping the cap on the lube bottle behind me and am startled when his hand begins slathering the warm jelly on me, the other lazily stroking his length.\nHis breathing is shallow and shaky as he finishes his task. I think he might be even more nervous than I am.\n"Okay," he whispers, more to himself than to me, "try to relax."\nTaking deep, calming breaths, I let my whole body loosen up, waiting for him to start.\nThen he's there, pressing in and he's so much bigger than my plug. What have I gotten myself into?\nI gasp, tears pricking my eyes at the pain but I do my best to stay relaxed, clutching my comforter in my fists.\n"Are you okay? Do we need to stop?" he asks, holding as still as he can.\n"No! I'm okay!" I insist, "Just... go slow."\n"Okay," he sighs and waits a few more seconds before continuing, inching his way in bit by bit.\nIt gets a little bit easier when he's past the head and is only sliding in his shaft but I'm still thankful that he pauses every couple seconds, to allow me to adjust.\n"You're so tight," he groans out, sounding like he's in pure bliss, "Thank you for trying this with me."\nI'm too busy concentrating to answer properly but his words warm my heart, making me more determined than ever to keep pushing on.\n"I'm in," he croaks out finally, "Are you still doing okay?"\nBy this point, I've become more used to his size and while not quite pleasurable for me yet, I'm not in pain any longer.\n"Yes, give me more time before you start moving, though."\n"That's fine," he whispers, delicately massaging my ass and my lower back right above my tail. "I grabbed this for you in case you wanted it. So maybe it will help."\nI can feel him reaching around me to position something between my legs. The silicone is warm and familiar. My vibrator! Even when he's in a hurry to get in my pants, he still thinks about me...\n"What do you think?" He asks, trailing it along either of my thighs.\n"Try it," I agree and whimper feebly the moment he turns it on.\nHoly shit! The vibrations from my toy are so much more intense right now, even when it's barely pressed up against my clit.\nRealizing exactly what I want the moment I feel that pleasure, I look back over my shoulder at him with pleading eyes and Taishiro watches me expectantly, seeing I want something from him.\n"Do you think... you could... fuck me with this too?"\nThe whoosh of breath that comes from him says he's not only unbothered by my request, he's more than happy to oblige.\n"Y-yeah," he practically pants, "If it'll make you feel good, I'll do anything."\nAnything hm? I'm gonna have to store that information in the back of my mind for later.\nHis long arms are a godsend now as he reaches further to press the buzzing toy to my slick entrance, being sure to remain completely still at my back.\nThe moment he slides my toy inside me, I feel like my eyes have opened for the first time ever. How have I never experienced this sensation before?\nUnable to hold back my desperate moan, I buck my hips, trying to drive the toy in further.\nTaishiro lets out a gasp at the same time I do when I realize he's still waiting inside me. The pleasure had been so great that any discomfort had melted away.\nMy movement against him didn't hurt at all, though. In fact, it felt good. Really good.\n"Fuck me," I beg him in my pathetic higher pitched voice, "Please, now Taishiro."\nHe doesn't need any further prompting as he finally begins rolling his hips against mine, letting out a clearly euphoric moan of his own.\n"Oh god... Aiko..." he groans breathlessly as I feel him begin pumping in and out of me, slow at first but he's picking up speed.\nThe discomfort returns for an instant but is gone the moment he starts moving my toy as well.\nNow I'm floating in limitless bliss and the cries that issue from my throat are only that of ecstasy and the need for him to move faster, fuck me harder. Every part of me is filled and pleasured and I could stay here, his cock in my ass and my toy in my pussy for hours... if I had the stamina, if he had the stamina.\nFuck, I wish I could taste him right now. I bet his flavor would be the richest it's ever been with the way he's grunting and panting behind me. Every so often, he pauses to catch his breath and regain some strength before continuing and starting my ride into paradise all over again.\nI've never known pleasure like this and I don't think he has either. It's also compounded by the fact that he's taken the time to go slow and make sure everything felt good for me too.\nI like Taishiro so much. I want him. Like really want him. To keep him, to love him, to share everything with him. I want him to stay and not go back to whatever this job is that's keeping him away from me. I want him to make love to me every night- and it doesn't have to even be this. I just want him in my arms, in my bed, in my life.\nI've never felt this way about anyone. I've never wanted only one person over and over and over. But Taishiro... he fits for me. He feels so... right.\nMy orgasm is building so quickly inside of me that I feel blindsided when I feel myself approach the edge at a lightning fast speed.\n"Taishiro, I'm gonna cum," I whine, hardly able to get the words out through the other sounds that are pouring from my lips.\n"I'm close too," he pants, never breaking the rhythm of his thrusts, "I want to feel you first, baby. Cum for me, let me feel you."\nHis words are always so perfect. He knows exactly what to say to rile me up and the timbre of his voice- so deep with lust, so broken with rapture- I can't keep myself from falling over the edge into the most powerful orgasm I've ever felt in my entire life, my wings flapping frantically, making tiny whirlwinds in the room.\nI can do nothing but scream my pleasure as all of my muscles tense and I grip my comforter for dear life, my whole body spasming.\nThrough my delirium, I hear Taishiro cursing like I've never heard before, his thrusts becoming more fevered, before he practically roars with his orgasm and I feel his cock pulsing inside of me.\nHe pulls my toy out and probably discards it on the bed. I don't know, I don't care. Then, he wraps one of his arms around me, the other going to my jaw to turn my head back toward him and he kisses me, letting me taste him as he rides the waves of his orgasm out.\nHe knew exactly what I wanted and was hoping for. He always knows. He always cares.\nWhen we've both finally calmed and collapsed on the bed, limbs tangled together, I turn on my side to face him and take in the beauty of his flushed face and still-reddened lips.\n"That was fun." I smirk at him and he smiles back at me, pure joy lighting his face.\n"You asked for that but... you've never done it before?"\nMy cheeks warm and I chew at my lip anxiously. How did he know? "It was that obvious?"\nHe chuckles and my wings stir at that soothing sound. "It's okay. I haven't either, sort of. I tried once. It didn't go well. But you... You were amazing, Aiko. You're always amazing."\nHis broad fingers stroke at my cheek softly and I close my eyes, leaning into his touch.\nI want to keep him... I want him to stay...\nScooting closer to him, I lay my head on his chest, wrapping one leg around his waist.\n"There's a lot more I want to try," I whisper and my heart stutters when I feel him lay a soft kiss on the top of my head.\n"We will; you make everything so much fun when I'm with you."\nFun... He thinks I'm fun too. This man has given me so much on top of being my lover. He was the reason I met Fat Gum and how I came to feel less terrible about my quirk.\nSpeaking of which, have I even told him that I'm friends with Fat now? Has Fat told him maybe? Does it matter? Will it bother him?\n"I... forgot to tell you, by the way," I speak into his chest, drawing lazy circles on his shoulder. "Fat Gum and I are... pretty friendly now. He's actually coming with me to Tokyo on Thursday. I don't know how you really feel about him but.. I hope that's not a problem."\nTaishiro's hand, that had previously been gliding back and forth along my side, goes still and I can hear the swallow he takes. Was I wrong to think he might be okay with our friendship? What will I do if he's not?\n"It's not," he says with a soothing, kind voice, "If that makes you happy then... that's what I want for you." He's silent for a second but with my head pressed to his chest, I can hear his heart picking up speed when he says, "You're feeling better about him then?"\nI look up into his eyes to see he's looking... hopeful? He wants me to like Fat Gum. My relief at knowing that is palpable.\n"Yeah," I say with confidence, "He's kind and caring, like you, and it's easy to talk to him. He's looking out for me with this whole... thing that we're involved in. I feel like we could be... really close friends eventually."\nTaishiro nods with a tiny smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes, "I'm glad."\nI breathe a sigh of relief and go back to resting my head on his chest, pulling him close again. I feel so much better letting him know what's going on with the rest of my life.\nCuddling like this is nice. I almost never cuddled after sex before I met Taishiro. He's spoiling me by treating me like a princess.\n"It's not spoiling..." Fat's voice sounds in my head. "You can't think you're not worthy..."\nTaishiro would probably say the same...\nRelaxing in this blissful state, I begin to drift off into sleep, snuggling in closer to his warmth.\n"Aiko," Taishiro's warm, gentle voice stirs me from my dozing. "It's getting late."\nGetting late? So?\n"I'm gonna have to leave soon."\nLeave? Wait....\nWait... Leave?!\n"You're leaving?" I ask, fully awake again in an instant, "Can't you stay? Just for one night?"\nI pull back from him again, my heart sinking into my stomach.\nHe looks regretful and a lump forms in my throat to see his lips turned down for once. The expression is so unnatural on his face.\n"I'm sorry, I just... I have to."\n"Taishiro..." I gaze up into his eyes, knowing my own face is probably looking pretty forlorn as well, "I- I-" How do I tell him how I'm feeling? How do I express what I want from him when I don't even really know myself? Can't he see how much I'm struggling?\nHe looks at me expectantly but I don't know what to say. Who is this person I've become? Since when have I needed someone to return my feelings so desperately? Why is it killing me that he doesn't want to stay?\n"I just want you for one night... I don't know what to tell you to make you stay but I... I want you to. You told me you wanted to know more about me when we first met. I want to know more about you too.... I don't know how to do this, though. I-"\nMy chin wobbles as the lump in my throat grows bigger. I need to pull my shit together. What the fuck is wrong with me? I don't like feeling this way.\nThe look on Taishiro's face is downright tortured. "Aiko... there are things... I'm not ready..."\nWhy the fuck is this guy so perfect just to reject me when I try to take the next step? Is it me? Am I not... girlfriend material? Will he never want to stay?\nI pull back further and sit up, my wings drooping behind me.\n"Okay," I choke out, "I'm sorry if I got the wrong idea."\n"Aiko..." he sits up as well and his hand brushes at my back but I pull away from him. I don't want his pity. Not in the form of affection, not in the form of his words, and... not in the form of sex if that's really all this has been. Pity and guilt that I nearly died waiting for him.\n"You can go," I say, finally swallowing the horrible lump in my throat, though the ache in my chest remains.\nI slide off of the bed and stride into the bathroom to grab my robe, throwing it over my shoulders.\n"Aiko," Taishiro says, his voice strained, "I want to stay with you. I really do. It's just complicated."\nMy jaw tightens. I wish he would just go. I'm already over it. I just want this to be done.\n"I get it," I lie, "It's fine. I'll call you when I need you next."\nThe hurt expression on his face in response reminds me of the way Fat looked when I pulled my hand from his and that same stabbing of guilt punctures my chest, only adding to the weight there.\nFuck. That was petty.\n"I'm sorry. I- Please just go," I plead, shaking my head.\nHe nods and finally complies with my wishes, scooting off the bed and dressing himself.\nGod-fucking-dammit! I wish I'd never realized just how much I want him. I wish those thoughts could've just stayed unacknowledged in my subconscious. I should've known this was how it would turn out. I wondered before why he doesn't have a wife and kids and the perfect life. This is why. He doesn't want it. He doesn't want a relationship; he doesn't want to stay; he doesn't want me. At least not in the way I want him. If I'd just never acknowledged those feelings, I wouldn't be standing here with this barely pulled together look on my face as I watch him finish buttoning his shirt.\nWhen he's done, he heads toward the exit and I follow him, stopping in my living room as he reaches the door.\nHe turns back to me, his eyes sorrowful. But of course they are. He's not a cruel person. He didn't want to hurt me. It was my fault for getting these feelings and wanting something that wasn't being offered.\n"You can call me or text me or anything whenever you want, okay?"\nI nod, not trusting myself to speak without my voice cracking.\n"Okay. Bye," he says, opening the door and ducking out before closing it again.\nWhen he's gone, I sigh one of the heaviest sighs I ever have then straighten myself and swallow every single bit of whatever I'm feeling right now. I still have toys to clean and my bruised butt to tend to. I don't have time for this bullshit.\n--\nIt's Thursday morning when I reemerge from my cocoon of self pity I've wrapped myself in for the past three days\nI still feel dumb and, looking back on it all, pretty embarrassed about how I behaved. But I'm also unable to get up the nerve to call- or even text- Taishiro and truly apologize to him. We had an agreement and I overstepped. That was my own fault. He didn't deserve to be so unceremoniously kicked out.\nThankfully, none of my regret shows on my face when I meet up with Whitney, Fat Gum, and Suneater as well it seems.\nA weight on my chest I hadn't even realized I was carrying seems to lift when I see Fat, even though he's not looking too great himself. Does he look thinner than usual? Is he sick?\n"Are you doing okay?" I ask, walking up to him, my brows turned up in concern. "Are you sure you still want to come?"\nI reach a hand up to lay on his cheek and check his temperature, as his forehead is covered by his mask.\nHe watches me with ailing eyes, not moving under my touch. "Im fine. Don't worry about me, I just ate something that didn't agree with me yesterday and still getting over it."\nHe smiles weakly at me and I give him a more cheerful one back, thankful for how much better I feel just being in his presence.\n"I haven't been feeling great either," I admit, pulling my hand back and placing it on his arm instead, "Let's just try to survive the day, huh?"\nHis golden eyes just don't seem as bright when he looks into my eyes but he nods in agreement anyway.\nI turn to take in the rest of my group. Apparently, I've become the chaperone on a field trip to Tokyo for these three.\nWhitney's dolled up to the max with her makeup perfectly dewy, her platinum hair straightened to perfection, and wearing a simple black dress.\nShe looks like a clean slate, ready to be put in clothes and walk them down a runway. She's going to nail this interview, I can tell.\nI smirk in approval. I have to pat myself on the back for teaching her well in our little crash course. Good job, me, you're not a complete mess!\nBut she's not paying attention to my scrutinizing gaze. Her focus is on the boy standing awkwardly away from us, keeping his head down and toying with the sleeve of his costume.\nShe's eyeing him like she's trying to figure out a puzzle which means it's a safe bet she's already attempted to interact with him.\nSuneater, for his part, looks like he knows there's too much attention on him and doesn't know how to handle it.\nGently nudging Fat with my elbow, I nod my head in the direction of this odd standoff when he looks down at me questioningly. His eyes go from one to the other and back to me.\n"Yeah," he whispers into my ear, "she said good morning and even got him to shake her hand but she started trying to ask him about himself and he clammed up like that. It might be an awkward ride."\nI see...\nStepping past Whitney, I lay a hand on her shoulder to let her know I'm here and I'll show her how to coax Suneater out of his shell. I think I've finally got it figured out.\n"Good morning, Suneater," I greet, coming to a stop in front of him. I don't wait for him to respond before continuing, "Thank you for coming today. I guess you probably also noticed Fat-kun wasn't feeling too well and didn't want him to come alone?"\nSuneater's head slightly lifts enough for me to see his eyes, though they're still cast downward. "I-it's nothing. The agency will be okay without us for a day."\n"Well, I appreciate it," I tell him genuinely, "I'd be worried for him if you weren't here. Can you please make sure he doesn't push himself?"\nSuneater finally lifts his eyes to meet mine and I have to keep myself from smiling so I don't scare him off again. He looks at me like he wants to say something, like he's frustrated that he can't. Instead, he nods in affirmation and turns away again.\nLooking back to Whitney, I see she's been watching and her unnaturally green eyes are bright with interest.\nHmmmm...\n"Now boarding the seven o clock train to Tokyo," the announcement comes over the loudspeakers.\n"Alright, let's get outta here I guess," I say to my little crew of followers, grabbing my duffle bag full of clothes.\nI turn to Fat to find him smiling that wide, toothy smile that I've become so accustomed to seeing and the weight on my chest lessens further as I grin back. I'm relieved he seems to already be looking a little better.\n"Let's go," I say, lifting my brows at him and heading toward the train.\n"Okay," he replies and I hear his heavy footfalls along with the clack of high-heeled shoes and the soft padding of bare feet following behind me as we make our way through the station.\n

Chapter 11:\n"Oh my god! I did it! We did it! I'm in!" Whitney bounds up to me outside of my modelling agency, heels and all, and jumps on me like she's five years old.\nThe smile on my own face is broad and genuine as I hug her back. I'm really, truly excited for her as though she were actually my kohai newly accepted at the agency.\nBut this exciting moment in and of itself is mildly concerning for me. Once again, I'm getting the impression that this isn't just an assignment for her. It feels like she really wants to have this job. Her passion and drive for it seems much more enthusiastic than I recall her having as a hero.\nI knew that before, I thought it wasn't my business but seeing the way she's looking at me, I'm starting to wonder if maybe I should ask about it. If my suspicions turn out to be true, what could I do to help her, though?\nWhitney moves on to Fat, celebrating with him and giving him a high five, then turns to Suneater, her smile still lighting up her face.\n"I did it!" she says again, this time addressing him.\nHe pauses for only a second before smiling weakly- awkwardly, in my opinion- and saying, "Congratulations."\nHer smile grows wider and I glance over at Fat to see if he's seeing what I think I'm seeing.\nApparently, his thoughts are exactly the same as mine because I have to bite my lip to keep from snorting at the devilish grin on his face when his eyes meet mine.\n"Fujisaki-san," a deep male voice reaches my ears, startling me, and I turn to see a distinguished-looking man in a pinstripe suit emerging from the building. The owner of the agency... "I'm told you're the one to thank for scouting this lovely lady."\nHe looks over at Whitney who beams at him, then back at me. As a former model himself, he's still quite attractive and the grey hairs at his temples only lend to the classy air about him.\n"Yep," I confirm with a nod, "I'll be happy to coach her too."\nHe steps closer to me, laying a hand on my head like he's talking to a daughter. For all I know, he may see me as one. I've been at his agency for almost ten years now.\n"I hope that doesn't mean you're recruiting her to replace you."\nI have to actively keep my body from slumping. Why the fuck is everyone saying that? And moreso, why do they care this much? I suppose, as one of his most sought-after models, he would want to keep me but the unwarranted touching is also making me feel uncomfortable.\n"I'm not retiring. Not yet. Don't worry, Ueda-san," I assure him, pulling his hand from my head and patting it a couple times before letting it go to be as respectful as possible while still removing it from my person.\n"That's a relief to hear," he says, not seeming to have taken any offense to my moving of his hand, "And who are these heroic looking men?"\nHis attention goes to Fat Gum and Suneater now, taking in each of them in turn, though his eyes hold for a little bit longer on Fat, assessing.\nThank All Might I made sure I had a story for why they were around.\n"This is Fat Gum and Suneater," I explain, motioning to each respectively, "I've been having some issues with handsy fans lately so my hero friends came along to watch out for me on their day off. They have to go back to work tomorrow, though."\n"Nice to meet ya!" Fat says genially, holding out a hand to shake.\n"Heroes, hm?" Ueda-san asks, giving Fat another once-over as he takes his hand and shakes it, "It's good to have heroes for friends, I suppose." Letting go, he turns back to me. "Now, I heard you have a shoot today so go on and get ready for that. Take the new girl with you. Let her see what she can expect if she wants to go far."\nThe wide-eyed look of excitement on Whitney's face is amusing as I begin leading my little group away.\n"Thank you, Ueda-san!" I call back to him, "I'll show her the ropes! See you later!"\nHe gives us a tiny wave, then heads back into the agency, leaving us to make our way to the train station and toward our destination for the rest of the day.\n--\nYoyogi Park has a fair amount of tourists roaming around the place but it looks like a large area has been blocked off for the shoot so no one will likely get in the way.\n"Do not act like a bunch of weirdos," I warn my three followers, "You're supposed to be here to 'watch my back' so don't go staring at Jared, don't ogle the girls-"\n"You really think either of us would ogle the other models?" Fat snorts with humor, popping a takoyaki ball in his mouth that we picked up along the way.\nI throw a look back at him and Suneater next to him. They probably wouldn't, even if they wanted to. They're too shy about things like that and if they got caught, they'd probably die of embarrassment. Especially Suneater.\nDespite knowing all that, I give him a shrug just to be difficult. "Maybe."\nHis responding expression of embarrassment, shock, and outrage all mixed up into one makes my quip worth it. I have to press my lips together firmly to keep from cracking a smile. It's so easy to push his buttons when you know what gets to him and I owe him some merciless teasing after going so easy on him on Monday.\n"That's fine," he says with a dispassionate air, also giving a shrug, "I don't see anyone here worth ogling anyway."\nMy jaw works and I nod my head like what he said was completely fine and did not bother me at all. Of course I know he's not serious and this is all part of the game. He knew I wasn't serious either. But I enjoy this "who can be the sassiest" game and I open my mouth to give my own response one step up in sass when we're interrupted by none other than Tomoyo strolling up looking a little frazzled.\n"Okay so... Jared hasn't shown up yet but he is en route," she informs me, eyeing Fat, then Suneater, and finally Whitney, "Is this your girl?"\nI smirk at her with complete confidence, "Yep! Was I right or was I right? The agency already accepted her."\nTomoyo's brows shoot up and she takes on an impressed expression. "You were right. I'll admit that. It's nice to meet you Whitney."\n"You too," Whitney replies, flashing her show-stopping smile. Phew... This girl... Why wasn't she a model before now? There's no way she never ran into any scouts.\nI can tell that Tomoyo is thinking something similar as she looks the blonde teen up and down then turns to me. "Well I don't know exactly when Jared is getting here but you need to get to hair and makeup so you're ready when he does. I'll take you there and when you're settled I'll come back and have a chat with our new girl here."\n"Our girl." That's already a good sign.\nShe smiles at Whitney, who gives a small bow, and we turn away to head toward a grouping of trailers a few yards away.\nFat takes a step forward to come along but Tomoyo turns on him with cat-like reflexes, giving him a hard look. "Not you. There are half-naked girls back there. Do you think they'd be comfortable with a big... guy like you wandering around?"\nHe halts and scratches at his head, seeming unsure. "I guess not but..."\nThen he glances at me, the concern he feels written all over his face. My heart hurts seeing him worry for me like this; he just wants to make sure I'm safe. But this is just hair and makeup and Jared isn't even here yet. He doesn't have to be that worried.\n"It's fine," I smile at him warmly, "Fans aren't allowed on the set yet."\nHe and I exchange a brief look in which he understands what I'm trying to say, then he finally backs down.\n"We'll wait right over here."\nTomoyo hauls me away before anything more can be said and I sigh heavily, knowing exactly what's coming the moment we get out of earshot.\nSure enough, she pulls me to a stop just in front of the hair and makeup trailer.\n"You want to tell me what your hero buddies are doing here?" Tomoyo asks in a sharp tone.\nI roll my eyes despite knowing full well that she has a certain amount of validity in her anger.\nSo I give her my spiel that we cooked up about me telling him about fans bothering me a bit too much and starting to feel unsafe. Thus him coming here on his day off. She knows that I get harassed sometimes so it really does make a lot of sense. She doesn't need to know that I don't fear my fans whatsoever, especially because I carry my shock stick around in my purse. That's been more than enough to handle anyone who thinks they can lay their hands on me for quite a few years.\n"Okay... Well I don't want you feeling like you're not safe when you're working, Aiko," she relents, her voice sounding less tense, "I just wish you would've told me. I could've gotten you bodyguards or more security on the sets. Something."\n"Sorry, I just didn't think about it," I lie. She probably would've been the first person I told in actuality.\n"Well, what's done is done. They're here and if they make you feel better, then they can stay for now."\nPfft. She says that like she's the one who makes the decisions. I won't correct her this time, though. There's no need to poke the beast again unnecessarily.\nShe leaves me at the hair and makeup trailer and presumably heads back to Whitney to interview/interrogate her. I'm not really worried, though. She nailed that last interview so well, just having a talk with Tomoyo shouldn't be difficult at all.Then she'll pretty much be in and will be able to go around the modelling community, keeping an eye out for suspicious figures while seemingly building her modelling career. If anything, she's probably the exact kind of person these traffickers are targeting. Should I be worried about that? Probably not, right? She is a hero after all. But could she handle whatever she might end up going up against? I'm going to have to think on that more and consider watching out for her as much as she's meant to watch out for these criminals...\nIt takes a solid hour of one person working on my hair while another works on my makeup til they move on to the next girl.\nI'm told by the production manager when I exit the trailer that Jared is still running late so I should just get my outfit on for my first shoot then go wait, maybe order some food if I'm hungry.\nWhat the hell is taking Jared so long? He's never been late to shoot before. He's always had a great respect for everyone's time on the set. I'm starting to get a sinking feeling about this.\nNow dressed and ready for the shoot (whenever that might be) I head out to rejoin my group, hoping Fat is happily munching away at a new box of takoyaki and not stressing.\nWhen I pass out of the cluster of trailers, though, I see a small group of girls surrounding a very overwhelmed-looking Suneater, neither Fat Gum nor Whitney anywhere in sight.\nWhat the hell?\n"So do you ever, like, do naughty things with those tentacles?" I hear one of the girls crowding Suneater ask and I have to do a double-take, not sure I heard that right.\n"I- I-"\n"Excuse me?" I cut in, pushing past the girls- none of which I recognize- to get to his side, "Is any of that your business?"\nAll of these girls look younger than me and each of them are wearing similar masks of shock and a little bit of fear. I might not know any of them, but it looks like they recognize me.\n"Fujisaki-senpai," one of the less meek ones steps forward now, "we were just messing with him. He's so cute when he gets all awkward."\nShe smirks at him and Suneater pulls his hood over his face.\n"Well he's here to do a job and that job is not to be cute for you," I chastise, looking at each of them in turn, "I'm also fairly certain Sakuya-sama wouldn't be pleased to hear about her models sexually harassing someone on the set of her photoshoot."\nThat's the right button to push apparently, as I see real fear shining in each of their eyes now.\n"Don't bother him again or I will report it to the designer and to your agencies. You all should know I can find out pretty easily what they are."\nThe dirty looks I receive as the girls turn away honestly just warms my heart. Most of these girls seem to be new. And they won't be lasting very long in this business if that's how they're going to behave around a cute boy on set.\n"Ai-senpai," Suneater says timidly, tapping me lightly once on the arm.\nTurning to face him, I can see his head is still bowed and he's trembling a bit. So many guys would be over the moon to have been surrounded by beautiful women like that. But Suneater is nervous in social situations. I can tell it's more like a nightmare to him. Maybe I was wrong to bring him after all...\nThen again, Fat would probably say that's all the more reason he should come. He needs to be able to handle this. I'm sure he's great at fighting villains, but handling civilians is part of the job too.\n"Thanks," he murmurs from under his hood and I struggle not to place a hand on his shoulder to calm him. That would probably do the opposite.\n"It's no problem. You have my back, I have yours," I assure him, "But I don't know why Fat isn't here. He probably would've been nicer about sending them packing. Where is he?"\nWithout missing a beat, Suneater points out toward a tree with bright orange leaves about 20 yards away and I easily see a giant yellow form standing under it with someone else.\nI squint to see who it is.\nWait. Is he talking... to Tomoyo?\nA crease forms at my brow, my tail flicking back and forth. Isn't she supposed to be conversing with Whitney? What could they have to be talking about? I swear to All Might, if she's being a bitch to him, I may have to actually fire her.\nFrom what I'm seeing, neither of them seem too happy. This can't be anything good.\nA moment later, Fat seems like he's ended the conversation and comes strolling back toward us with a look of extreme displeasure. He did not like whatever Tomoyo said to him.\nFor fuck's sake, what is her problem with him?\nWhen he sees me standing with Suneater, his face perks up as though he's going to be able to hide that horrible look he had on it just a moment ago.\n"What did she say to you?" I question the moment he's close enough for our conversation to be mostly personal.\n"It's nothing Ai-chan," he assures me, though I'm not feeling at all assured, "I'm fairly certain you're aware she doesn't like that we're here."\nI nod, casting my gaze down in guilt. "I'm sorry she's being this way. I'm not excusing her behavior but she's been my manager for a long time. She keeps wanting things to be the same way they've always been. I've never had many close friends while modeling. She's pretty much been my only constant."\n"Don't worry," he says, coming closer to lay a giant hand on top of my head, "Nothing she says will get to me. It's fine."\nI smile gratefully up at him for his understanding and patience. He deserves an award for how much shit he has to put up with from me.\nWhitney returns with another huge tray of takoyaki for Fat and Suneater a few minutes later and a bag full of drinks she's acquired from a vending machine that we can all choose from. So that was where she had gone...\nPulling her away from the other two and speaking in a very low voice, I tell her, "You know, when I came back out here, there were a bunch of girls surrounding Suneater."\nHer eyes go wide for a second but she schools her features quickly.\n"Was... he okay?"\nInternally I'm really impressed that she already gets that a situation like that was more stressful for him than exciting. On the outside, I give her a smirk.\n"He was fine. I scared them off," I reply and see her breathe a sigh of relief, "Try not to abandon him next time, though. If you're actually interested."\nPink rises to her cheeks and she says a bit too loudly, "I'm not!" before ducking her head and getting even pinker.\n"I'm not," she says again, in a whisper this time, "It's not like that."\nThe only response I give is a shrug as if to say "If you say so" before rejoining the other two.\n--\n"So, it doesn't look like Jared will be coming," the production manager announces after we've been waiting around for something like two hours, "I just got off the phone with his secretary and she said his flight just couldn't get him here today. I'm so sorry everyone. We've got another photographer on the way right now. They will be here within the hour."\nEveryone, from the models to the lighting personnel, groan with aggravation that they'll have to start on this shoot hours late. At this rate, we'll be working into the night. Hopefully they'll be able to make that work.\nI feel even worse than aggravated, though. I pulled so many strings, brought Fat and Suneater here, got Tomoyo riled up and all for what? For nothing! For us to sit around all day and be bored.\nSighing, I turn to my three cohorts as we all sit on a blanket- that the crew so graciously provided- spread out on the grass. "I'm sorry about all this. He's never even been late before."\n"It's not your fault Ai-chan," Fat says, inspecting a leaf that's fallen onto our blanket between two fingers. He spins it back and forth so the bright colors seem like they're flashing red and yellow. "It was still a productive day."\nI know he's referring to Whitney making it into the agency and being able to at least scope out the set of a photoshoot. He's kind to be trying to placate me this way.\n"Well, you don't have to stay now that... you know." I'm hesitant to say too much out loud in case anyone happens to hear the conversation. The last thing I need right now is someone overhearing that the heroes are only here because they thought Jared would be.\nFat and Suneater exchange glances briefly before looking back at me.\n"We don't mind staying. We're already here," Fat says.\nI chew at the inside of my cheek and consider it. Of course I'd love for them to stay. They're my friends. They're a joy to be around, especially now that Suneater seems to be getting more and more comfortable around me- and, oddly enough, Whitney too at an alarmingly fast pace. It would be so nice to have someone besides Tomoyo watching my shoot, waiting for me to be done, telling me what a good job I'm doing. And I know Fat Gum would do any of those things without question.\nKnowing that he'd be more than happy to cheer me on makes me want to have him stay so badly. But he's a hero.\nHeroes don't get to just hang around a photoshoot just to make things more fun for me. Their job is to keep people safe. There are people out there they could be saving right now instead of sitting here talking to me.\n"I don't want to keep you here if you don't need to be," I argue, "You remember what our deal was."\nHe nods, looking a little crestfallen as he pushes himself up to a stand. Why does he have to look so put out? He has to know I'm right. Is he still worried about me, even knowing Jared won't be coming today?\nSuneater, Whitney, and I follow suit, rising to our feet and I brush non-existent dirt off my butt. I'm always a little paranoid about getting designer clothes dirty.\n"Thank you for coming today, even though I know it wasn't entirely for my sake," I say, patting his arm, "I'll call the day I get back and we can set up that lunch we were supposed to before?"\nHis expression is less concerned now. Though he's definitely still unsure about leaving, he seems pleased to discuss this topic.\n"You could just come by if you want," he offers sweetly, "I should have enough time if you just want to come make plans."\n"Okay." I smile at him, never disappointed by his kind and inviting nature. It always feels so good to be someone's priority, even if not their first. It would be ridiculous to ask that of anyone anyway.\nWhitney and I see Fat and Suneater off of the set and wave them goodbye. Then we head back to the chaos of everyone trying to set things up for a sunset and nighttime shoot.\nThankfully, it's not long before we're able to start and I have Whitney stand by to watch each of the girls who go before me.\nShe watches each person with her full attention almost seeming like she's taking notes in her head. I'm gonna have to make sure I'm there for her first shoot because I'm extremely interested in how all this coaching and researching has paid off.\nWhen it's my turn, I make sure I'm on my A game and work the camera like I've never worked it before. I feel pretty fortunate that I'm able to go right as twilight falls and the sky is the deepest, most beautiful purple to highlight my hair as the lights shine against it.\nAfter my final shot showing off the comfortable slots cut for wings (since the hero this set is modeled after flies and wings are a common enough quirk trait), I head back to the trailers, ordering Whitney to stay and keep watching.\nShe doesn't argue so I'm pretty sure she'll be occupied long enough for me to get changed.\nMy plan is to take her everywhere with me while I'm here and show her everything from how I schedule my shoots to what hotels have the best accommodations. Some part of me says I should stop and consider why I want to do all of this for her. I was never this in depth when I coached other girls and she may not even be doing this for very long. But something in me just wants to help her when I see the passion in her eyes.\nI finish getting changed, hanging my borrowed outfit up with the rest and picking up my purse before I start heading back where everyone else is watching the shoot or waiting their turn.\nBut I stop when I find that Whitney isn't watching the shoot anymore. She's disappeared somewhere. Maybe she had to go to the bathroom?\nStepping back between the trailers to start my search, I open one door and then another, calling for her but getting no response.\nMost of the other models who've already finished have left and the small cluster of trailers is practically devoid of anyone. It should be easy to find her if she's in here.\nAs I pass by a gap between two trailers, I sense a presence watching me. It feels almost oppressive and I'm instantly uncomfortable as I turn to find a figure, mostly obscured by shadow, looming near me.\nMasking my discomfort, I simply arch a brow at them. "Can I help you?"\nThey don't answer, just stand there continuing to stare at me. What the hell? Are they scared or intimidated by me? The way they're hunched a bit gives off that impression they don't want to say anything.\n"Do you need something? Do you work on the shoot? Do they need me? I'm pretty sure I'm done. I'm just looking for my friend."\nStill nothing. They don't even move. It's creeping me out more and more and a cold fear begins to trickle down my spine. Where is Whitney?\nI take a small step back, trying not to alert them to my plan to make a run for it in three... two...\nOne doesn't come as their hand shoots out to grasp my wrist in an iron grip.\nThe hand hardly even looks human. It's jet black and shines as though slippery. What the fuck kind of quirk is that?\n"Fujisaki... Aiko," their raspy voice finally speaks, only uttering my name, then nothing else.\n"Get off me!" I shriek at it, immediately grabbing for its own wrist to try and scratch, punch, pull, something. Nothing is working though, and when I pull my hand away again, it comes back as though painted black. What?\nI'm just as helpless against this person as Kenji was against Fat. Whatever this thing is, I'm not going to be able to fight it off.\nThen I recall my shock stick in my purse. If I can just get my hand in there...\nI feel immense relief as my fingers find a familiar cylindrical object and wrench it out of the small bag, immediately extending it and jabbing them right in the ribcage- or at least where the ribcage should be. The tip goes straight through the flesh with a sickening gloopy sound. What the fuck is going on?\nMy relief turns to dust as I push down on the shock button and absolutely nothing happens.\nI can feel the vibrations of the current running into them but they aren't reacting. Nothing is happening! Why? What is this thing?\nI jam my thumb down on the button over and over, thinking maybe something is wrong, maybe I'm not doing it right. But no, I'm doing everything right. They just aren't affected.\nThen, this thing starts pulling me none too gently toward it into the shadows.\nDeep, mind-shattering terror like I've never known in my life fills me from head to toe and all I know how to do any longer is struggle with every ounce of strength I have. I may not have a fear of the dark, but every cell in my body knows I do not want to go with this thing into the shadows.\n"Get the fuck off! Let go!" I scream as loud as I can, feeling my throat going raw with the effort. "I'll rip your fucking balls off you piece of shit! Don't fucking touch me!"\nThe tendons are pulling painfully in my arm as I fight like a caged animal to get free, my wings flapping wildly, tears springing to my eyes.\nAs my arm is dragged into darkness, then my shoulder, my mind flies to Fat Gum. Gone. He left because I told him everything would be fine. Now? I don't even know what's going to happen to me now...\nWhy did I let him go?\n"No! STOP! Let the fuck go!" I shriek, my cries going unanswered as my shoes skid across the now muddy ground.\n"Down, Aiko-chan!" A commanding voice calls from behind me and I immediately follow orders without question, dropping all of my weight to sit on the ground.\nA small metallic canister flies just over my head, lodging in the chest of this shadowed figure and just sinks into it.\nWhat did that do? It still has me! It's still pulling me!\nThen, as though a balloon were popping, it bursts, sending inky black liquid everywhere.\nAt first, I think I might be imagining it to be black in order to keep my sanity from seeing the gore everywhere but no... this... thing exploded into black liquid.\n"What... what the fuck was that?!" I question shrilly, my voice hoarse now from my screams.\n"Aiko-chan!" Whitney calls to me, racing to kneel beside me.\nShe has black flecks all over her. I can only imagine what I must look like.\n"Aiko-chan are you okay?" she asks, holding my face in both hands to keep me facing her. Her worry for me is palpable.\nNo. I thought I was going to die! No. I thought I was alone! No. I was afraid! I am afraid!\n"I... I just need to know what the fuck that thing was," I snap at her, pulling away and scrambling up to my feet.\nI rub at my wrist, a wide red mark marring the skin where the thing had gripped me tightly. Fuck. That's going to bruise.\n"I don't know," she answers with a frown, her eyes wide with fear and uncertainty, "Some kind of monster. It looks like it was made up of black... ink? Or paint maybe?" She sniffs at the paint in my hair, her face coming away still confused.\nMore people come racing over now, gasping loudly when they see the horrible scene of us- mainly me- covered in this thick black substance.\nEverything feels like a blur and my mind wants to just check out as people immediately begin to swarm us and call for cops, for heroes, for ambulances, media, everyone.\nWhitney's pulled away to be checked by paramedics and talk to police. I suppose I'll have to talk to them too soon enough.\nSomeone hands me a hand towel to clean myself off with and I can hardly keep myself from outright laughing. What the fuck is a little hand towel gonna do? I'm covered in this muck!\nI do what I can to wipe off my face and throw the soiled towel on the ground, not caring at all that it's inconsiderate to do so.\nThen, I'm also ushered to an ambulance to be examined. They make me follow a pen with my eyes and answer dumb questions like what's my name and who the prime minister is.\nI can hardly absorb much of anything that's happening around me. I don't want to. I don't need to. I just want to get out of here and get cleaned off.\nI have to ask multiple times where Whitney is before her platinum head appears before me, holding up a much bigger towel so I can get more of this grime off. She's also brought me a change of clothes though I don't know where I'll be able to get dressed.\nRight now, her face is the only familiar one to me and, thus, is the only one that brings me any small amount of comfort or security.\n"I'm so sorry I wasn't with you," she says, garbling some words through her clear attempt to keep from crying, "I'm so dumb! I can't do anything right! One of the makeup artists asked if I wanted to see what products she used and I just thought it would be okay! I shouldn't have thought we were safe. I'm so sorry!"\nShe keeps repeating how sorry she is but I have a hard time blaming her. No one ever said she was responsible for my safety. There was no reason to believe there was any danger to be had- or rather we led ourselves to believe that by finding out Jared wasn't coming. It was my fault for sending Fat Gum and Suneater away. If anything, she saved me.\n"You didn't do anything wrong, Whitney," I say, trying to reassure her, "You even did some quick thinking. I don't know what you did to that thing but you got it off me and I'm thankful for that."\n"It was just a can of hairspray," she blushes from the praise, "It was all I had on hand. I just used my quirk and..." She mimes an explosion with her hands.\nMy stomach flip-flops at her explanation. She actually might've killed me if that thing hadn't absorbed it then. That's discomforting to think. I'm going to assume that was an informed strategic move on her part...\nI sit in the back of the ambulance with Whitney at my side, telling the police my story of what happened at least three times until I hear a much-needed expressive voice coming closer.\n"Aiko!" Fat bellows from a few yards away, setting off at a run toward me.\nFat-kun...\nI have to bite back my tears of relief at seeing him. I can't explain why but seeing that bulky form puts me so much more at ease.\nThe moment he reaches me, he pulls me into him, hugging me tightly and releasing a huge breath in a big whoosh. It doesn't even cross his mind that I'm probably getting this black stuff all over him too.\nI don't put my arms around him but I lean into his weight, letting him know I'm not bothered by his actions.\nHe feels like a giant teddy bear has enveloped me in its fluffy arms and I allow myself to just melt into the embrace for now, basking in the warmth and the safety it brings me.\nFat Gum came back for me... How did he know to come back for me?\nI cast a glance over at Whitney and she nods, confirming that she notified him- and probably anyone else that was in the know- about the attack.\n"Aiko, I came back as fast as I could. We were waiting for the train back when we got the call. Are you hurt?" He asks, pulling back and taking my face in his hands much like Whitney did, although his cover either side of my head.\n"No. I'm... I'm okay. My wrist is just bruised," I tell him, keeping my voice steady and my eyes on his.\nHe takes my wrist in his hand, tiny in comparison to his, and holds it delicately. It's already been looked at by a paramedic and it's not broken or sprained. It'll just be sore for a few days.\nWhen he's satisfied with his own examination, Fat raises his eyes to me, not letting my hand drop yet.\n"Do you need anything? What can I do?"\nI can see the immense amount of guilt wracking his every expression and even Suneater looks more stressed than anxious for once as he speaks with Whitney a few feet away.\nJust don't leave me, I want to say, Just make me feel safe for a while longer.\n"No. I just want to go home."\nMy weekend of shoots I set up are all ruined. If I don't cancel them myself, they'll likely all be cancelled by the companies wanting to keep their girls safe. An attack made on a model on set is too much for the system to not shut down for at least the rest of the week. Not to mention, my wrist will be bruised for a long while and no one wants to photograph someone battered like that or spend the extra time having it covered up.\n"I'll take you if you want," he offers sincerely, "I owe you that much. I know it's for my own selfish peace of mind but I want to keep you safe."\nIs he reading my mind? How does he know exactly what I want? More importantly, why does he think he owes me anything?\n"You don't owe me, Fat-kun. I sent you away. You wanted to stay."\n"And I shouldn't have gone," he still hasn't let my wrist go and his hand closes around it, though still very delicately. I can only feel the warmth of his fingers through his gloves and the barest brush of them on my skin. "You didn't force me to do anything. I should've stayed whether you liked it or not."\n"Fat, you... didn't do anything wrong." I can't stand the thought of him blaming himself.\n"But I still didn't do what was right either and I have to live with that. Let me take you home. We can talk more about this later, when you're not covered in... whatever that is. Let's get you out of here so you can clean up and change."\nI can't argue with that.\nAfter making sure the police- and anyone else- has everything they need, Fat, Suneater, and Whitney all escort me away from the park.\nThe first place we stop at is a bathhouse for me to clean up so I don't have to sit in this grime all the way back home.\nWhitney comes with me as I wash myself off and we both sit in the bath to relax. But my skin begins to crawl after being in there for only a short time and I need to get out. I can't just sit still for some reason. I need Fat in front of me again. I need him to be his funny, lighthearted self again and take my mind off of that hand, those shadows, my helplessness.\n--\nI've been staring at my phone for a solid fifteen minutes by the time Fat Gum looks over at me while we sit on the train back to Osaka.\nHe knows something is eating at me but doesn't say anything. I don't know if it's because he doesn't know what to say or if it's because he'd prefer to wait for me to speak first.\n"I want to call Taishiro," I tell him after staying quiet for another minute, "I want to tell him what happened."\nHe's thoughtful for a second then answers, "Why haven't you?"\nLooking over at him, my lips turn down as I recall why. "Because I don't know what the point would be. I would just tell him and he'd probably be worried but I don't think he'd be able to come and even if he were, he wouldn't stay." My head ducks as I think back on his tortured expression. "He... I don't think he likes me as much as I like him and I think that telling him would make him feel pressured to be here for me when he doesn't want to be that involved."\nFat doesn't respond to that. He turns away and looks out at the darkened scenery passing us by, his face stoic and reserved.\n"Oh... sorry," I cast my eyes toward the ground, "you don't like to talk about him. I didn't mean to bother you about this."\nFat sighs and closes his eyes. Is he upset about what I said? Why does he never talk to me about his brother? Why does he immediately close off when I bring him up?\n"Ai-chan," he says in a tinier voice than I would've imagined he could make, "you can come with me if you don't want to be alone tonight. I'll take care of you."\n"I'll take care of you..."\n"What like... come with you... to your place?"\nHe nods. "If you're comfortable with that. I can always ask Bombshell if she'd be willing to stay the night with you if not."\nI have to think about this for a moment.\nNothing against Whitney but I feel better with Fat. Something about his presence soothes me and keeps me from feeling overwhelmed by everything that's gone on today.\nAnd if I were to stay with him I wouldn't feel pressured to stay pretty, even after sleeping, like I would with most men. He would watch out for me every second and make me want for nothing while I'm there, I'm sure of it.\nHe's so incredibly kind and dependable. Not for the first time, I find myself wondering how I managed to convince him to be my friend. He's even seen the very worst of me. The meanest I can be, the weakest I can be, the most scared and even desperate. But he likes me despite those things and I can hardly believe I deserve it.\nI've been quiet for too long. He must think I'm trying to come up with a way to say no because he goes on.\n"I mean, my place isn't as nice as yours. At least... I assume so. I can understand why you wouldn't-"\n"I want to," I blurt out, "I just don't want to be a burden. This isn't your responsibility. You aren't obligated to take me in because I'm... a mess."\nI'm not going to say I'm scared. I'm not anymore. After cleaning up, I feel a lot better. Really.\nFat turns to me and lays a huge gloved hand atop my head. All of the chaos inside of my head goes silent for a blessed moment under that reassuring weight.\n"You know you're not a burden, Ai-chan. Come with me. You can stay as long as you want."\nHis hand drifts from the top of my head to catch a piece of my hair running his fingers along it all the way to the end, then let's his hand drop.\nFor a second, I want to lean into him; ask him to touch my hair again. He's always so gentle and calming.\nBut that moment passes quickly. I'm not going to ask someone to treat me like a child. I'm a grown woman and I need to pull my shit together.\n"I'll go with you," I agree, "but only for tonight. I'm not afraid. I'm just tired and I want company."\nHis mouth widens into a grin and, for the first time since I was attacked, I'm able to smile back.\n--\nWe go our separate ways from Whitney and Suneater at the train station and Fat and I hop on a separate rail to get to his place.\nApparently, the stop for his apartment is the same as the agency because that's the one he pulls me off on and we head the opposite direction we would if we were to go to his work.\nThe apartment building he leads me to, while not by any means run down- in fact it's nicer than most buildings- isn't as fancy as mine, as he predicted. But that's also not a fair comparison. His building is reasonable and still high class. Mine is outlandishly luxurious for no reason in particular.\n"Here we are," he says, his voice sounding slightly shaky as he stops in front of the first apartment we come to after stepping off the elevator. "It's kinda messy since I wasn't really expecting any company but I'll clean it up and you can sit and watch TV or.. whatever you want."\n"Okay," I giggle, amused by how nervous he seems. He shouldn't have to be so worried about my opinion of his mess by now.\n"Okay," he parrots, though it sounds more like he's talking to himself than to me, and he takes out his keys to unlock the door.\nHe swings the door open and flips on the lights, stepping in and allowing me enough room to go in as well before he shuts the door.\nOnce inside, a wonderful smell meets my nose that I can't quite pinpoint the name of. Some mix of the smell of clean laundry and a cleaner that I only vaguely remember my mom using when I was growing up. But to me it just smells comfortable, inviting, like a home should smell.\nAfter removing our shoes, he brings me into his living room which also has his kitchen attached, only separated by an island.\nThis place is massive, and I don't just mean that in the sense of square footage- although it's sizeable in that way as well. I mean everything in this place is made with his size in mind. The dining room table isn't huge but it's taller than normal tables are, as are the wider chairs that sit on either side of it. The cabinets in the kitchen look wide and deep. The couch sitting against the wall looks like it might swallow me if I sat too far back.\nHe must've had every piece of furniture custom made! Just the thought of how much that cost is mind-boggling.\n"I'm home!" Fat calls as though there were someone here waiting for him and I give him a questioning look.\nBut I need not wonder for long as a whining meow comes from down the short hall and a few seconds later, a perfectly round, poofy-looking, deep grey cat with folded over ears comes bounding out, crying again with that whiny meow.\n"This is Bento," he informs me, motioning toward the little fluffball now making its way up to the back of the couch. "He's a Scottish Fold and very sweet. He likes everybody."\nAs though trying to prove his point, Bento rubs his fuzzy head against my arm and gives another little meow.\n"Hi, Bento," I greet him, scratching behind his peculiar ears, "You're looking very cute today."\nBento seems pleased with this attention and starts purring like he's trying to compete with the sound level of a chainsaw.\n"How about you sit here with Bento for a little bit and I'll clean the place up, then make some food."\nIt's probably around 11 pm. I'm not supposed to eat after 8 pm and I still hear Tomoyo's voice... Tomoyo! What happened to her?!\nI rip my phone from my purse faster than I've ever done in my life but notice texts waiting for me when I turn it on.\nTomoyo: I'm sorry, I had to deal with another client and by the time I got back, they wouldn't let me on the set and there were police everywhere.\nTomoyo: Call me when you get this so I know you're ok\nTomoyo: I just found out what happened. I'm so so sorry Aiko. Please just text me at least when you get this.\n"What's wrong?" Fat asks, not being nosey enough to look over my shoulder, which I'm thankful for. He's respecting my privacy.\n"I just forgot about Tomoyo. Apparently she was off the set when it happened and didn't tell me," I inform him, finally deciding whether I should eat or not. "Food sounds good, I suppose. I'll answer her and wait if you want to take care of everything. You don't have to bother cleaning, though. "\nLooking around as I sit on the plush couch, nothing seems that messy. Sure, there are random things set out here and there but it's not even close to cluttered. If anything, his home looks lived-in and well-loved.\nFat just laughs and pats my shoulder. "Thanks for saying so but I'll feel embarrassed if I don't. It'll only take a little bit. You'll be okay?"\nI roll my eyes up at him. "Don't treat me like I'm a delicate flower. I'm fine."\nHe looks like he believes me when I say it. That's good. If he believes it, everyone else will too.\nAs I send Tomoyo a quick text that I'm okay and that Fat Gum is taking care of me, Bento takes his chance to crawl into my lap.\nFat retreats into the kitchen to start the food, unzipping his jacket on the way and pulling it- along with his mask and gloves- off to hang on a hook near the front door.\nThis is the first time I've seen him without that mask, I realize, when he turns to me with a naked face, his blonde soft curls a mess. It's odd. I thought I would feel like something integral was missing or that I'd at least be disconcerted but it's not like that at all. It's... familiar, like I've always known what his face looks like under there.\nIt's the second time I've seen him in this black tank he wears under his jacket. The first was only briefly, though. Now I get more time to take in those huge arms of his that are always so warm and cozy when he's hugging me. But I still know there's power in them too. It's part of the reason he makes me feel safest.\nI should really change myself so I can be ready for bed after our little midnight snack. So I go to grab for my duffle but... oh shit.\n"Shit! Shitshitshit!"\nFat, who's already begun at the stove, turns around looking rather startled by my yelling.\n"Everything okay?"\n"Shit! No! It's not okay! I forgot my bag with all of my clothes in all the turmoil! I have nothing! Nothing to sleep in, nothing to wear tomorrow, nothing!"\nBento having already vacated my lap with my initial outburst, I stand from the couch, pacing back and forth and chewing on my thumbnail.\n"Hang on," Fat says, glancing at the stove and fiddling with something on it before focusing back on me, "I have a couple shirts that came smaller than expected in my closet. If you want, you can borrow one to wear tonight. Then, you can put the outfit you're wearing in the washer."\nMy panic- which was pretty unnecessary now that I've had time to reflect on it- abates as I comprehend what he's saying and I plop back down.\n"Really? But... my wings... my tail... I need holes for them. Is that okay with you?"\n"Of course it is, Ai-chan," he says like I should already be aware of this fact, "Just wait there one second." Then he makes his way back toward what I assume is his room.\nWhen he emerges, he has a t-shirt in his hand that's still pretty gigantic despite the fact that it's "too small for him" as well as a pair of boxers that are, oddly, far smaller than what I imagine he'd wear.\n"From my smaller days," he says when he sees me eyeing them curiously. There was a time he was thinner? "I figured you'd want to wear them if you wanted to wash, you know... everything."\nPink tinges his cheeks and I can't keep myself from smirking. Just the implication of my underwear makes him embarrassed? Why does he always have to be so adorable?\nHe hands them to me along with a pair of scissors- presumably to cut the holes I need- then goes back to the stove to check up on whatever it is he's been cooking.\n"Thanks," I murmur and head the direction he came from, toward his room.\nFlipping on the light, I see that it's a fairly large room decorated very simply with a bed that's absolutely gigantic. Not surprising really. Everything else in his apartment is custom made to be bigger, of course his bed would be too.\nThere's a dresser and a tiny closet. I don't need to open them to know he's probably got a few more of those yellow jackets that make up part of his hero costume and, I suppose, my hoodie is probably nestled in there somewhere. Knowing that brings a smile to my lips as I begin peeling off the leggings and tank top I changed into a couple hours ago.\nIt's hard to believe that just this morning I was standing in the station worrying about Fat looking sick. How everything can change in just a matter of moments...\nHis shirt falls below my knees and there's so much extra around the waist, it might as well be a bustle dress. I tie it up and make a knot of the excess fabric at my hip to make it more comfortable for me. With his boxers on- that fortunately fit well enough around my wider hips- the look is complete.\nI reemerge when I'm done and throw my outfit, along with my underthings, in the washer located in his bathroom, then head back out to see how the food is going.\nFat's just starting to ladle soup into bowls and looks over to me as I come around the corner.\nI'm sure he's aware it's a comfort food and am struck once more with how much he's considering me, even when I never asked for it or even hoped.\n"Food's ready," he says, hurriedly looking away from me again, "I figured soup would be okay since it's not too heavy."\n"Soup's great," I give him a grateful smile, stepping forward to take a bowl.\n"It's hot though, so be careful."\n"I know soup can be hot," I sass, sticking the tip of my tongue out at him as I grab a soup spoon he's set out on the counter and make my way to the table.\nHe chuckles and comes to sit across from me, a considerably larger bowl filled with soup for himself. In his other hand, he carries a TV remote.\n"We can watch something while we eat. Anything you want. I even have all the subscription channels. Not sure why since I'm hardly home but..." He shrugs.\nWith this comfort food, I have a deep-seated desire to watch one of my comfort guilty pleasure reality shows and soak up all of the fabricated drama.\n"You sure?" I ask, giving him a chance to take back the offer before I likely ruin his night, "Anything I want?"\n"I'm sure. Put on whatever."\n"Okay," I say in a sing-song voice, taking the remote from him and clicking through to find the subscription that is home to Honeymoon for Twelve, a show that should be rather self explanatory.\nWhen I hit 'play', I glance in his direction, wondering what his reaction will be. He's already seen everything else that's wrong with me, why not my unhealthy love for people getting into arguments on camera too?\nThe look on his face is that of barely masked humor as his eyes meet mine. He doesn't say anything- probably trying not to laugh- but, more importantly to me, he doesn't seem annoyed or unwilling to watch. He's just... amused. He really doesn't mind?\nMy eyes go back to the TV and we quietly eat our soup as we watch two couples start to argue about who kissed who's wife.\n--\n"He's lying! She has to know he's lying! Don't believe him, Kimi! He's a liar and a cheater!"\nI snort hearing Fat's outrage about what's going on on the screen in front of us.\nWe're about four more episodes in and moved to the couch after eating in order to keep watching.\nAt first, Fat wasn't that interested but was entertained by mine at least. A few episodes later though, he's invested in the people on the show and all of the drama happening between them. Now he's started to talk to the TV.\n"Oh my god, why, Kimi?!" he groans as Kimi takes her husband's side, who's been accused of doing something he actually did. "I can't. I can't with her. I can't with him! Throw him in a dumpster, Kimi!"\nI have to cover my mouth to keep from bursting out laughing. Big, burly, insanely sweet Fat Gum is getting so irate at a reality show. I wish I could take a video.\nThe episode ends on a cliffhanger where Kimi and her husband are sitting down, looking like they're about to have a very serious conversation. She might finally leave him! But it cuts to the credits right as she says "We need to talk." and we both growl in disgust.\n"Next episode!" Fat demands pounding his fist on the couch cushion, "I need to know what happens!"\n"Ah well..." I giggle at his expectant face, "we're caught up now. The next episode isn't until Monday."\nHe glares at me with wide eyes. "WHAT?! You made me watch a show that's not finished?!"\n"Um... sorry?"\nBut the barely concealed grin on my face says that I'm not sorry at all. I could never be less sorry that I've gotten to see this side of Fat. In fact, I can't wait to watch with him again for the next episode.\nHe huffs a frustrated sigh and pushes up off the couch, his eyes going to something in the kitchen. The clock on the stove, it would seem.\n"Well I suppose it's pretty late anyway, we should get some sleep."\nDread begins to dig its icy fingers into my stomach and I have to fight to keep the expression on my face from completely falling.\nI was afraid he'd say something like that. It was too much to hope he'd be willing to stay up all night with me until the sun came up again. He might do it if I ask but... I can't just ask him to.\nLuckily, I don't have to hold my face for long as he heads toward the hall. Toward his room? Is that it? I guess we're done.\nI look around for something to cover myself while arranging some throw pillows. At least the couch is pretty cozy. I can... do this.\n"Here, you can sleep on the bed and I'll take the couch," Fat says, coming back into the living room with an absolutely gigantic blanket and fluffy pillow, setting them down on the couch next to me. "It's pretty big but it's soft and I'll get you more blankets if you want."\nI frown at him. Is he serious? He's planning on sleeping out here? Just for me to take up a bed that was likely custom made for him? I can't let him do that.\n"No, don't worry about me. I'm fine on the couch. It's more than big enough. You won't be comfortable out here."\nThis couch is massive, as most things in this apartment tend to be. It would be plenty big for me, like sleeping on a twin bed. I can't imagine he would fare as well.\n"It's fine," he counters, "I want you to be comfortable. I don't want you to have to stay in my living room while I'm shut in the bedroom. I think you'll feel better sleeping in there."\nI sigh, feeling slightly frustrated. Why does he have to inconvenience himself for my sake?\n"Dont do that. Don't make yourself uncomfortable just so I can sleep in a bed. I can sleep on a couch just fine for one night."\n"So can I," he argues back, his brows lifting in his usual way he does to challenge me. "Take the bed. I changed the sheets. It's one night."\nMy jaw tightens at his stubbornness. No... I feel so awful putting him out like that. I know he wants me to feel safe but I'm not willing to be a burden in order to do it.\nBut instead of saying that, I come out with, "I'm not sleeping in your bed. You can't make me."\nWhy do I act like a child when I know he's challenging me sometimes? When we bicker back and forth, I always end up saying something dumb or wanting to stick my tongue out at him. Why does he make me regress in maturity? Why do I enjoy the way his eyes glimmer with defiance when we get like this?\n"I can't?" He lifts his brows higher, blinking slowly, confidently, "You sure about that?"\nI narrow my eyes at him. Is this a trick question?\n"You can't make me do shit. I'm staying here."\nTo accentuate my point, I grab the pillow and lay down, stuffing it under my head and covering up with the blanket. What's done is done. I've claimed my spot and I settle in, closing my eyes to end the conversation despite knowing I probably won't be able to sleep.\nThat is until I feel the blanket being thrown off of me and Fat's thick hands wrapping around my waist, lifting me off the couch.\n"FAT-KUN!" I screech, gasping for breath, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"\n"I'm making you," he says, mirth brightening his voice.\nHe's enjoying this! He thinks it's hilarious!\nHe lifts me up and throws me over his shoulder like I'm a sack of flour, holding tight to my lower back as I flail.\nSomething inside of me heats. From embarrassment? From shock? From elation at being tossed around? I'm not sure. But I'm squeezing my thighs together at the firm pressure of his hold on me.\n"You motherfucker! You can't just pick me up like that!" I wail as I beat my fists into his back, knowing full well it's not doing a damn thing.\nHe laughs heartily, pulling me back down from my shoulder perch.\n"Would this suit you better, princess?" he asks, holding me under my wings and knees, like Taishiro did when he walked me down the hall, and my cheeks feel like they're on fire.\n"No!" I snap at him, squirming to get out of his grip before I start remembering more of that night and possibly making a fool of myself.\n"That's what I thought," he chuckles and hauls me up over his shoulder again; none of these actions seem to be a strain on him whatsoever despite the fact that I'm 150 pounds. He seems like he could lift me all day without breaking a sweat.\nFat starts down the hall and by now I've given up the fight, hanging limply from his shoulder, a pout on my lips.\nMy whole body feels like it's overheating by the time he pushes the door open and flips on the lights, hauling me toward his bed.\n"Here you go," he says as though he'd merely been showing me to my room, then takes me in both arms and leans over to unceremoniously dump me onto it.\nI can't tell what kind of emotions are bubbling up inside of me as I land on the vast, pillowy surface, his massive body hovering over mine for just a fraction of a second before he steps back.\nHe's still grinning from ear to ear, thinking all of this is so entertaining, but I feel... weird. My face is so hot, it feels like it's burning and I can hardly catch my breath to try to yell at him.\nI jolt upright, teeth bared, my wings beating energetically behind me. "How dare you!"\nHis laughter ends abruptly as his eyes move from my fierce expression to focus on something just over my shoulder and I realize I did it yet again. I reacted in a way that probably made Fat think he terrified me, especially after what happened today with the monster. But I didn't think about that for even a second when he was holding me. That thing was cold and slimy and I could sense its violent intent in every movement. Fat picking me up and throwing me on the bed felt nothing like that. I can only ever feel warmth coming from him. He could never scare me anymore.\nMy snarling expression falls away as I see that the fun is over. His face is unreadable but I can tell his mind is working a mile a minute.\n"Fat-kun... I'm not actually... "\n"Sorry..." he says breathily, and turns away, that odd expression still marring his features as he walks out and shuts the door.\nWhat... just happened?\nGetting to my feet again, I pad over to the door, pausing before I reach for the handle.\nDid I do something wrong? Is he upset? Will he even want me to come back out or would he rather I just stay in this room and go to sleep?\nDeciding to take my chances, I crack the door open and peer out. I can't leave things like they are, not knowing if he thinks I'm scared of him. After everything, he can't think that, can he?\nI pull it open further and tip toe my way down the hall, looking around for his bulky frame.\nBut I catch his scent before I can see him. I tilt my nose up to sniff at the air to be sure.\nYes... the mouthwatering aroma of cinnamon whispers its inviting promises and my tail curls instinctually, my eyes widening.\nIt wasn't me... Well, I mean, it kinda was but it wasn't because he thought I was scared.\nI close my eyes and my heart begins aching for reasons I can't fully explain.\nTaishiro... Why does he have to smell just like Taishiro?!\nWhy would Fat do all of this for me but Taishiro wouldn't even spend the night when I begged him? Why did I have to start falling for the one person who would never be interested? It's some kind of cosmic joke.\nI mentally slap myself to come back to the present. That's not what I should be focusing on right now. Right now this is Fat's scent, not Taishiro's.\nThe horribly embarrassing memory of when I forced him to kiss me suddenly pops into my mind- the way his hand softly kneaded my breast- and I shove that memory deep down again. What... the fuck...\nFor some reason, it's not upsetting to me that he was aroused. He ran from me because he was respecting me. I can't blame him for something he had no control over. Just like before, he was probably just responding to... something. Our closeness; the bed; his hands on my waist. It could've been anything. It actually warms my heart that he chose to pull away.\nHe's such an unbelievably good person. Why can't I be half as virtuous as he is? I want to do better, be better. I want to be honest with him. He's done nothing but earn my trust and I still struggle to let him see my weakness.\n"Fat-kun?" I call out, warning him of my presence before I step around the corner and find him sitting on the couch preparing for bed, Bento sleeping peacefully on the back.\n"Aiko!" he says, sounding startled, "I'm sorry! I-"\n"I... don't want to go to bed..." I tell him, looking at him with the tired eyes I've done my best to conceal up until now, my wings drooping.\nHe closes his mouth, the startled expression giving way to an understanding one, the scent receding almost immediately.\n"Ai-chan... are you really okay?" He asks like he's giving me the chance to change my answer from before.\nTightening my jaw to try to fight back the feelings that are trying to flood into me at his question, I shake my head, looking down at the floor.\nI'm not okay. I'm afraid. I don't want to be alone.\nI feel like that thing will come out at me from every tiny shadow. The way it rasped my name rings in my ears whenever it's silent.\n"Will you... p-please...." I say shakily, my voice trailing off to a whisper. I still can't do it. I still can't ask him to stay up with me when he's already done so much. My pride and my lack of self-worth are both ganging up on me, telling me I shouldn't be asking anyone for anything, much less Fat Gum.\nA large, warm hand closes around my own, gently tugging me forward. I let it, letting him pull me down to him and encompass me in his tender embrace.\n"I'm scared," I whisper into his chest, tears silently falling from my eyes to wet his tank, "I thought it was gonna take me or worse. I thought I was gonna die alone... in the dark. I've never felt so powerless; so hopeless..."\nI clutch the front of his tank as though he were my only lifeline in this vast ocean of terror I've felt that has only ever abated when he's around.\n"Aiko, I'm so sorry I wasn't there," he murmurs into the top of my head, "I should've been there. I should've protected you. I won't let that happen ever again. I'll go with you to every photoshoot from now on. I'll go everywhere, let you stay here if you want. I just want you to feel safe- to be safe- from now on. I'll do anything to give you that again."\nHis body is so soft and calming as I press myself into it. The rumble of his chest as he speaks to me is a comfort.\nI nod, my wings spreading and curling around his arms as though they were trying to hug him back.\n"I trust you, Fat-kun," I tell him quietly, "More than anyone... ever."\nI think I feel his body tense momentarily but it could be my imagination because it's still plenty relaxed when I pull back to look into his eyes.\nThose molten amber orbs swirl with emotion and, for a split second, it feels like I can't breathe with the pressure in my chest. But the feeling passes when he looks away, eyes following his hand as it runs through my hair, soothing me, and I rest my head back on his chest, allowing him to continue this motion until my eyelids begin to droop.\n"I'll take care of you," his voice echoes in my mind, pushing away the other voice, the shadows, the inky black hand.\nHe has taken care of me, he's promising to continue doing so, and a small part of me wishes he would for a long time to come.\n--\nWhen I wake, I'm in a humongous bed, covered by a mass of sheets and blankets. Sunlight is peeking in through the two windows on either side of the bed, painting the room in pastel colors. It's early yet. I can go back to sleep. I should, in fact.\nBut where's Fat-kun?\nWriggling my way to the edge of the bed, I slide off in search of my host.\nI find him exactly where I imagined he would be, curled up on the couch, the blanket half off of him. He's barely able to fit onto it even laying on his side. Bento has made himself at home, sleeping at his feet.\nHe didn't need to do that! I told him over and over!\nBut he did. He's done everything for me. He's done more than I could've ever asked of a friend.\nI cover him up properly again and run a hand through his soft, wheat-colored hair. His head turns slightly but he doesn't wake and I pull my hand back.\nHeading back to bed, I feel the fear and helplessness that gripped me so tightly yesterday loosen just a bit.\nI nestle back under the covers that are fortunately still warm and don't wake again until late morning and Fat's calling me in for breakfast.\n--\nTomoyo: Oh thank god! I was freaking out! I'm so glad you're okay, Aiko. I already cancelled all of your appointments that didn't already call to cancel. Don't worry. I've got your back. Just take care of yourself ok?\nAiko: Thx. You're the best\nI shove my phone back in my purse as Fat Gum and I travel down the road toward the train station. I'm not quite sure what my plans are yet. I don't know if I want to stay at Fat's apartment for a while or not but, no matter what, I need to go home. Whether that be to pick up clothes and overnight supplies or to stay remains to be seen.\nI feel safe right now in the light of the sun but when it gets dark again, will I go back to being the coward I was last night? That's something I need to consider.\nFat has offered to take me all the way back to my own apartment and left his agency in the capable hands of Suneater for a while. He seems to have so much confidence in him, their bond as mentor and student must be wonderful. I hope Suneater sees how much Fat cares for him, even if he does give him a hard time sometimes.\n"Do you have any plans next week?" Fat asks, interrupting my thoughts. And I blink at him before I fully comprehend what he's asked.\n"Oh. No. I suppose not anymore..."\nI look down at my bruised wrist which has turned a dark purple. No way I'm getting any jobs with a wrist like that. I'll have to wait for it to heal before I can rebook anything, if that's even an option.\n"Well if you do have any plans- or whenever you get more jobs- I'm going with you. I'm not taking any more chances. I told you last night, I won't let it happen again and I won't let you feel unsafe anymore. I mean it."\nMy cheeks heat remembering how painfully embarrassing I was last night. I wish we could just forget that ever happened.\nBut I chose to be honest with him and he accepted me, held me until I fell asleep, and put me in bed afterward. Is that really something I should want to forget?\nI stop short when my eyes fall on the blocked path in front of us. A little round girl in a bright yellow jacket is standing a few paces away, her hands on her hips in a very strong power pose. An 'F' and a 'G' are painted on the front of her jacket and she has a black mask over her eyes. She can't be more than five.\nThe way her face is lit up tells me that all her dreams have just come true as she stares up at the humongous man towering over her.\n"Fat Guuuuum! I'm your biggest fan!" she shrieks at him, about to take a running start to jump on him. But a woman in her late 20s grasps her hand, pulling her back.\n"Mai! You can't just bother a hero like that! He was busy! You need to have some patience."\n"It's okay," Fat assures her as he looks back to the little girl again, "Mai, was it?" She nods and he kneels before her, still ending up quite a bit taller than her. "It's nice to meet you, Mai. I like your jacket."\nMai beams. "My mommy helped me paint it! You're my favorite hero in the whole world, Fat Gum! I follow all of your fights!"\n"That's awesome! Thank you for cheering me on, Mai-chan!" He smiles down at her, placing his massive hand on her head. Just his palm is enough to cover the whole of her skull.\nThe tiny girl points at me, "Is she your girlfriend? She's so pretty!"\nFat is opening his mouth to correct her but I step forward, placing a hand on his shoulder, "Yes! He's such an amazing hero, isn't he? I couldn't help but fall in love. Do you want to be a hero like him someday too?"\nI squeeze his shoulder as he looks up at me briefly, telling him not to refute me. He doesn't and goes back to Mai.\nThe girl's eyes light up with excitement, "Yes! I'm gonna be a hero and I'm gonna save people and I'm gonna have a pretty girlfriend too!"\nHer determination is so clear and the way she looks up to him warms my heart. I want to see those dreams come true for her.\n"I can't wait to see your debut, Mai," I tell her with a smile of encouragement.\n"You'll be a great hero, Mai-chan," Fat says, grinning as he stands. The look of wonder on her face at his height is adorable. "Now I have some hero work to attend to so I'll let you be on your way."\n"Thank you, Fat Gum," her mother says humbly. "And I'm so happy for you both."\nShe smiles at me and I realize then that I might've gone too far in confirming a non-existent relationship between us but I return her smile anyway and hook my arm around his, committed to the role now.\n"It was my pleasure," he replies, "Kids like her are the heroes of tomorrow after all."\nMai's grin grows only wider as we turn away.\n"Bye Fat Gum! Bye pretty lady!" she shouts when we've continued on our way and I can't help but squeeze his thick arm a bit as he lifts his hand to wave back at her. He loves his fans. He loves to encourage and mentor children. It's no wonder he provides work studies for aspiring heroes.\nPart of me hopes we'll see Mai in his office one day. Just the thought of it makes me smile.\nThen I have to pause.\nWe?\nI must've meant he. It's just him. He's the hero. I'm his friend. I think I got too excited there for a second.\nWe turn a corner and I could let go of his arm now but something makes me want to keep holding on. Like that day at the Quirk Registration Office and last night, holding onto him brings me comfort. His arm is large, well-muscled, and obviously extremely powerful.\nIs this how it feels to know you're safe and protected with someone? To know they see the whole you and still treat you like you matter? I've never known that kind of friend. Hell, I've never known that kind of family.\nMy hold on his arm tightens just a little bit more before I regretfully loosen my grip and slide my arm from his.\nHe doesn't seem to react at all.\nI'm colder now, less comfortable, but still content with his close proximity to me. I could still reach out, hold his arm again if I wanted to. Knowing that is its own comfort.\n"Sorry about that back there," I say, trying to sound cheerful, "I just... wanted her to believe that she could have anything she dreamed of. Sorry if I somehow just stirred up some kind of rumor mill."\nHe laughs softly, "There's no rumor mill about me, don't worry. I know why you did it. I'm not angry."\n"Oh. Good." I don't know what else I can say to that. I don't know why I thought for a second I might get a different response from him, or even what that response might've been, but we're mostly silent the rest of the way to the train station and all I can think about the entire time is reaching out one more time and holding on to my pillar, my safety net, my... best friend.\n

Chapter 12:\n"Uuuuggghhh, I'm hungry."\nSuneater glances over at me with a look of minor bemusement upon hearing my complaint.\n"I guess I can go find a takoyaki stand," he offers a little unwillingly. It still seems like he's concerned for me despite the fact that I'm not acting or feeling as awful as I have been the past few days anymore.\nHe had to deal with the fallout of my fight, or whatever you might want to call it, with Aiko on Monday.. After that night I felt as awful as though I'd been dumped. I'm still worried she won't want to see me again. What if she starts seeing other people again now?\nI don't even know what I'm doing anymore. I want to see her but I'm afraid of her getting too close. I want to get to know her but I don't want her to know the truth about me.\n"I can get them if you want," Whitney's cheerful voice offers, coming back from having some kind of discussion with Aiko's manager about model stuff. "That way you can stay here and watch out for Aiko-chan."\n"Oh, you don't have to do that," I tell her, waving my hands in front of me, then look over at Suneater to address him as well, "Either of you. I can get it myself. Just.... watch the trailers okay?"\nWhitney gets this funny look on her face that makes it pretty obvious she's trying not to smile, "I'll go Fat-senpai. Don't worry about it. Just stay here."\nShe runs off without giving me a chance to protest and now I'm stuck letting her get me food. I hardly even know the girl, I shouldn't be asking her to grab food for me. Kids these days... all considerate and respectful...\n"Er, Fat Gum is it? Can I speak to you a moment?" Aiko's manager appears at my elbow out of nowhere with an authoritative expression that says her question was not really a question at all. "In private?"\nShe turns to lead me away and I look at Suneater.\nHe knows the question before I can even ask it and nods at me, so I go to follow before she gets too far.\nWhy am I so paranoid? This Jared guy is supposed to be here today but Aiko's been around him a million other times and he's never done anything to her. It's so unlikely that he'd act inappropriately in such a public place.\nSo why do I have such a bad feeling?\nWe've moved pretty far from where I was waiting before she finally turns and immediately starts in on me.\n"Look, I don't know why you're really here but I've been putting up with this weird little friendship for long enough now," she snaps, her lips a thin line of barely checked anger. "I also don't know why Aiko seems to have attached herself to you, thinking you two are besties or something, but I can see what you're after and you can forget it. Aiko isn't the sweet little prize you think she is so get whatever delusion you have out of your head right now, hero boy."\nI feel like I'm being blindsided by this tirade. "What do you mean 'she isn't the sweet little prize I think she is'?"\nThis middle-aged, sharp-eyed manager gives me a glare that says she thinks I'm a complete idiot.\n"She goes through men faster than she goes through lip balm. She's not the settling down type and even if she were, she wouldn't do it with you. You're not her type, if you get my meaning. And I'm not going to lose years of work with her just because you don't care what you eat or how you look."\nHer eyes roll in annoyance when she sees my look of bafflement. How would our friendship affect their years of work?\n"What do you think people in the business would say if they saw her hanging around you?"\nI shrug. "That... she's friends with one of the top 50 heroes in the country?"\nThe scowl on her face tells me that my response didn't entertain or impress her. "They would think she doesn't care anymore; that she's going to have the same lifestyle as you. She could lose contracts."\nI've had about enough of her thinly veiled insults and talking down of her own client. Something about this woman rubs me entirely the wrong way. "With all due respect ma'am, you don't know anything about my lifestyle. I'm not a hero with my own agency and a high ranking one at that for no reason. Aiko is an adult, despite how you seem to want to treat her, and she can decide who she does and does not want to be around. I don't care who she's slept with. That's her business. And I'm fine with being her friend. I don't expect more-"\n"Yeah right, buddy." Tomoyo huffs a derisive laugh, "Any idiot with two eyes sees the way you look at her and how you treat her. I honestly don't know how you have her fooled into thinking you only want to be friends. She's probably just ignoring it and hoping you never try to make a move."\nNow I'm getting really heated and I think it's about time I walk away from this conversation. "We're done here. It has been charming talking to you but I'm going back to my friend now."\nShe looks like she might say something more but I turn my back to her and head back the way we came.\nI'm angry. Extremely angry. My fist is squeezed so tight, it's painful.\nAiko seems to be surrounded by nothing but vapid, selfish people. How could her own manager tell someone her personal business like that?\nBut I know that's not the only reason I'm so upset. Some things she said chafed so badly because they made sense. Is it really so obvious how much I care about her? Can she tell how I feel? Does it make her uncomfortable?\nBefore today, I didn't think any of the answers to those questions was yes. But now I keep going back and forth with the answer in my mind, reexamining all of our most recent interactions.\nShe's never shied away from being close to me. She's even been open to listening and asked more questions when I talked about my love life. If she knew how I felt and was hoping I wouldn't make a move, would she do those things?\nI need to tell her the truth about Taishiro... I'm no better than any other selfish person latching onto her if I can't tell her that I've been the one she's sleeping with this whole time.\nWhen I see she's standing next to Suneater, hands on her hips, looking extremely suspicious as I cross the set to join her again, I try my best to wipe the tension off of my face. A feat that's none too hard when I see the outfit she's got on.\nI know exactly who this set was modeled after with its red feathers accenting the black and yellow geometric design of the sports bra and shorts she's wearing. Her hair is up in a ponytail that reminds me of the one she had during our "date"- if one were to be brave enough to call it that.\n"What did she say to you?" she asks, like I figured she would, as I draw near.\nWould it be ok if I told her she looked nice with that outfit on? Would that make her uncomfortable? Hawks sportswear suits her, especially with those cute little wings she has.\nHawks... I bet he wouldn't be afraid to tell her she looks nice...\nShould I tell her all of the awful things her manager said? I don't want to be the one who comes between her and someone else who seems to be like family to her. Would that be any kinder?\n"It's nothing Ai-chan," I tell her, wanting to convince myself of that as well, "I'm fairly certain you're aware she doesn't like that we're here."\nShe nods, "I'm sorry she's being this way. I'm not excusing her behavior but she's been my manager for a long time. She keeps wanting things to be the same way they've always been. I've never had many close friends while modeling. She's pretty much been my only constant."\nYeah, I got that feeling from how she talked about her and the way they interacted the last time I saw them together. No matter how nasty she is to me, I can't take someone important to Aiko away from her. She doesn't need to be further isolated.\n"Don't worry. Nothing she says will get to me. It's fine." Something else I wish were true.\nI lay a hand on top of her delicate head when I want to be cupping her cheek. I wouldn't even hesitate if I were in my weaker form. She'd look up at me with her eyes all sparkly and I'd have no doubt she's interested. That is, if I didn't completely muck things up last time.\nBut she still smiles up at me and my heart warms at the sight.\nNo. She can't know. That's not the look of someone who is worried I'll try to hit on her. Right?\nWhitney returns with takoyaki (hooray!) and a bag full of drinks which we go through while Aiko pulls her away from us.\n"So what did she say?" Suneater asks quietly, not looking up from the bag.\nI sigh and shake my head, "Nothing good. She's trying to scare me away."\n"But you're not going to be scared away, right?"\nWhy does he sound worried and hopeful all at once?\nAiko ends her short conversation with Whitney and turns back to rejoin us looking mischievous for some reason.\n"No," I tell him easily, sending her a grin that she responds to with her own and I notice her wings move slightly just over her shoulder. Or maybe it was just the wind.\n--\nAiko is checking her phone as we walk down the street toward the train station. It looks like her two-faced manager texted her again after last night. She seems really regretful that she wasn't there with her client.\nI want to be angry with her, blame her, believe she doesn't care about her at all if she wasn't there for her when she was attacked. But who am I to judge? I wasn't there either. After all of my paranoia and intent to protect her, I let Aiko talk me into leaving. I went against my better judgement and look what happened.\nThe attack itself is still a complete mystery. I spoke with a few of the others that are part of the investigation and none of us can determine if this was part of the trafficking ring issue or not. Jared wasn't there, but does that clear him of any wrongdoing at all? Is this something else completely that we're dealing with?\nThis whole thing is a jumbled mess of confusion right now but I do know one thing for sure. I'm not leaving her alone anymore. In her apartment, after I do a full sweep of it, sure. But out on the street, at photoshoots, anywhere, I'm going to be there for her. I'm going to protect her this time. For as long as she needs someone to keep her safe and make her feel less afraid, I'll be there.\n"Do you have any plans next week?" I ask, wanting to try and figure out a schedule now.\nShe blinks at me as though coming back to reality. She must've been deep in thought again, something that happens often lately.\n"Oh. No. I suppose not anymore..."\nAiko glaces at her bruised wrist briefly, making me grit my teeth. I wasn't there for that... Idiot!\n"Well if you do have any plans- or whenever you get more jobs- I'm going with you. I'm not taking any more chances. I told you last night, I won't let it happen again and I won't let you feel unsafe anymore. I mean it."\nHer cheeks go pink and I have to look away from her. Damn, I love that color on her face too much.\nShe was practically red last night when she was screaming obscenities at me. When I threw her on the bed and she jumped right back up with those wings working themselves into a frenzy and her face so angry but also exhilarated, I had to retreat or I don't know what I would've done. Probably would've embarrassed myself more than I did.\nAiko halts abruptly and I look down just in time to see a little girl in our path. A fan!\nShe's chubby and so small and cute! All the reminders of why I want children of my own.\n"Fat Guuuuum! I'm your biggest fan!" she shrieks, about to jump me, it looks like, but her mom catches her hand at the last second.\n"Mai! You can't just bother a hero like that! He was busy! You need to have some patience."\n"It's okay," I tell her with a reassuring smile, "Mai, was it?" Mai nods as I kneel in front of her tiny form. Why are children so tiny? Will my kids be tiny like her? "It's nice to meet you, Mai. I like your jacket."\n"My mommy helped me paint it! You're my favorite hero in the whole world, Fat Gum! I follow all of your fights!" she squeals, excited to tell me more.\n"That's awesome! Thank you for cheering me on, Mai-chan!"\nWhen I put my hand on her tiny head, I can't even see her dark brown pigtails anymore.\nShe looks over to Aiko and points at her, "Is she your girlfriend? She's so pretty!"\nI'm speechless for a second. I have to correct her fast! Aiko probably won't-\n"Yes!" Aiko says sweetly, her voice in the soothing timbre it gets when she's talking to kids or those she sees as her juniors. She puts her hand on my shoulder like it's meant to be there, "He's such an amazing hero, isn't he? I couldn't help but fall in love. Do you want to be a hero like him someday too?"\nBright warmth spreads throughout my body at those words. I want them to be true. She's just putting on a show for this girl but, god, I want those words to be what she really means.\nI glance up at her but she squeezes my shoulder, telling me to go back to Mai instead.\n"Yes! I'm gonna be a hero and I'm gonna save people and I'm gonna have a pretty girlfriend too!" Mai answers, her eyes wide as she bounces.\n"I can't wait to see your debut, Mai," Aiko says at my side now.\n"You'll be a great hero, Mai-chan," I tell her as I stand and her eyes get even wider. Agh, kids are so easy to impress! "Now I have some hero work to attend to so I'll let you be on your way."\n"Thank you, Fat Gum," her mother says humbly, smiling widely at Aiko, "And I'm so happy for you both."\nAiko puts her arm through mine, squeezing my bicep lightly, and I think my heart might've stopped for a second. I can hardly breathe out my next words.\n"It was my pleasure. Kids like her are the heroes of tomorrow after all."\nMai and her mother allow us to go on our way and Mai calls after us, "Bye Fat Gum! Bye pretty lady!"\nI lift my hand to wave back and Aiko grips my arm tighter for a couple seconds. Geez, she was killing me last night with how cute she looked in my clothes and her angry pink face and how she held onto me when she finally admitted she wasn't as okay as she had led me to believe.\nToday, she's still got my heart in a vice grip with everything she says and does. I've never felt so fiercely protective of anyone in my entire life.\nShe's clearly not okay after last night but she's also not broken. She's so incredibly strong and resilient. I've known that since she nearly died in my office. The way she forges on ahead, working hard to keep from looking back. It's not an easy thing to do.\nWe turn a corner and she doesn't immediately let go of my arm.\nWill she keep holding on? I have to admit that I want her to. The soft, feminine hand holding onto me is a constant reminder of her still being here, safe and unharmed.\nShe squeezes me tighter and my heart squeezes along with it. Maybe she won't let go.\nBut a second later her arm drops from mine and it's all I can do to keep from asking her to put it back. She's hurting but she might still look at me like I'm crazy, or worse, with pity.\n"Sorry about that back there," she says sweetly, "I just... wanted her to believe that she could have anything she dreamed of. Sorry if I somehow just stirred up some kind of rumor mill."\nThe way I felt last night when she looked up at me with those bright, wet amethyst eyes returns to me with a vengeance.\nGod, I wish I could just turn to her and kiss her. I wish that I could be sure she would kiss me back as I am now. Because I would if I thought she might. I'd kiss her and run my fingers through her silky hair and tell her everything I should be telling her.\nI love everything about this woman. I love how much she loves helping and encouraging her juniors and I love that she pretends it's not a big deal to her at all. I love that she finds entertainment in bickering with me or making me flustered. I love the way she smiles back at me every time I smile at her and a million other tiny things and big things and normal things and weird things about her.\nI love... her.\nI love her.\nI love her.\nI laugh at the thought. Of course I'm in love with this girl who could probably tear me apart with two words. It's so fitting And now I have one more thing I have to hide from her.\n"There's no rumor mill about me, don't worry. I know why you did it. I'm not angry," I assure her, not looking her way for fear she'll see everything I just realized written all over my face.\nAiko's response is a simple, "Oh. Good." Then, we're both quiet, continuing our walk toward the train station.\n

Chapter 13:\nIt's only a month until Tokyo Fashion Week.\nThat thought forces its way into my head and refuses to leave as I lay down in my own bed, the night after I stayed at Fat's and after I was attacked by whatever that horrible monster was.\nOnly a month...\nI should be excited and planning my week down to the last second, not worrying about something possibly jumping out at me if I can't flip on the light switch in my closet fast enough.\nI chose not to stay another night at Fat Gum's, despite wanting nothing more than to stay there forever under his protection. And I'm certain he would've let me.\nHis guilt is so obviously eating him alive. It became clear just how protective he's feeling after he spent almost an hour sweeping through my whole apartment, making sure nothing was off.\nIf I were to stay with him and let him keep watch over me like we both actually want, I fear I'll fall into some kind of codependency and never feel safe alone again.\nYes, I have to have the TV on while I'm going to sleep and I have music playing for background noise constantly, but I'm not going to depend on someone else to make my life feel normal again. I can't. Fat is my friend and I adore him. It's because of those reasons I refuse to let him be my only source of comfort. No one should have to have that much weight on their shoulders and I also just can't live my life like that. I hate the thought of never feeling safe on my own again.\nI turn on my side and heave a huge sigh, trying to get more comfortable.\nOnly a month until Fashion Week....\nAs I close my eyes to the chatter of the TV, pulling my soft, squishy pillow to my chest, I remind my anxious heart that Fat will be here in the morning and every other morning to come and I promise myself that I will be okay by the time I set foot on that first runway a month from now.\nI will...\n--\nFat and I both gasp in unison as we watch the next episode of Honeymoon for Twelve the following Monday.\nHe's over at my place and he's brought over some takeout that we munch on while Kimi tells her husband that she cheated on him!\n"I thought you were good, Kimi! I thought you deserved better!" Fat admonishes her from the couch, actually looking a little heartbroken.\nI put an arm as far around him as I can, rubbing his broad back. I've found myself doing a lot of that lately, finding any excuse to hang onto him. It's his own fault he's so damn soft and warm. But he's not complaining.\n"It's okay, big guy, a lot of the other couples are still being true to each other. Look at Hina and Naoki. They're not even tempted. Kimi and her husband are toxic for each other. Sometimes people just don't work together as a couple."\nHe looks even more downtrodden now for some reason. I thought what I said might be uplifting, why does it seem like it upset him? Is he really that torn up over Kimi?\n"You okay?" I ask, feeling a tinge of worry for him. I don't like that look on his face.\nHis eyes turn to me and I'm startled by what I see there. What am I seeing there?\nI'm about to say something more to comfort him when the show breaks for commercials and a familiar, reddened face is suddenly on the screen.\n"Three Surges... please," Suneater says to my character bashfully and she replies with a secretive smile, offering up the three different Surge flavors which Red and Steel take two of.\n"Look look look!" I squeal, gripping Fat's shoulder to shake him.\nHe humors me by moving with my motion and chuckles his deep, shiver-inducing chuckle when each of the boys begin to transform. They all look so cool! I feel like a proud mother hen! That's my babies!\n"Surge. For the hero in you," my character says, sounding way more flirtatious than I remember being. It's almost embarrassing.\n"Ugh, I sound so weird. I hate my voice," I complain, scrunching my face up in a disgusted expression.\n"Really?" Fat says with an amused smirk, all hint of his former sadness gone.\n"Yeah, it's so... I don't know. I sound like I'm flirting even when I'm not and if I am flirting, geez, I might as well be on my knees already."\nFat Gum laughs outright, his giant hand coming to rest on my shoulder.\n"It's true, I thought you were being very suggestive with your line delivery of that commercial," he agrees and I send him a pouty glare. "But your voice is gorgeous, Ai-chan. It's one of my favorite things about you, physiologically speaking."\nI arch my brow at that tidbit of information. "OOooooo and what else is your favorite about me, 'physiologically speaking'?"\nMy smile spreads into a devious grin when he looks away abruptly, his cheeks immediately blooming with a dark pink color.\n"Nothing. Nothing really."\nI feel like cackling like a villain. I've got him cornered now and I'm not going easy on him.\n"Nothing?" I ask faux innocently while leaning closer, poking at his cheek. My tail is whipping from side to side like a cat readying its pounce. He's too much fun.\nFat shakes his head, his eyes still looking anywhere but at me.\n"Wow, I thought we already agreed that part of the reason you hang out with me was because you like to look at my butt."\n"I- We were joking around."\nHe leans away from me, but I just lean in even further, a rumble of laughter starting in my chest.\n"Mmm hmmm..." I hum coaxingly, pinching his adorably plump red cheek now.\nHe shifts his eyes back my way for a moment, "The show's coming back on."\nIndeed, our show is back on the TV, starting the drama right where it left off.\n"Okay, and I'll let you watch when you tell me."\nHe sighs heavily as though he's finally giving up his well-guarded information and I allow him to sit back up. I already told him once that it doesn't shock or disgust me if he looks at me. He's never inappropriate. He never touches me in any way I don't want to be. I would never judge anyone for looking if they're not being a creep.\n"Your tail and your wings..." he admits haltingly, "They're so expressive. I really like them actually."\nI blink a couple times, unsure how to react to that. I was so sure he was thinking lewd things... but, then again, if he had been, he likely would've given off a scent.\n"You wanna touch em?" I offer, stretching one wing toward him like I'm holding out a hand for him to take.\nIf it's possible, his face gets even redder and he shakes his head vehemently. "Nononono, I'm okay."\n"You sure?" I wiggle my wing in offer again but he still refuses with a shake of his head, not even looking my way.\nSighing with disappointment, I turn back to the TV and tuck my wing back in as I watch the quarreling continue.\nWe're quiet for a few minutes while Kimis husband starts a fight with the guy she cheated with.\n"Fine," Fat says with a disgruntled, unwilling tone.\n"Fine?" I look back at him with a question.\n"I'll touch them. Do the thing again."\nI oblige, stretching out a wing with a coy smile and I watch as he reaches for it hesitantly, his fingers practically shaking. He's going so slow and fearfully. What does he think will happen?\nThe moment I feel his fingers lightly brushing my wing, I cry out like a hentai girl, "Ahn!"\nFat jumps back as though he's been shocked and I actually am outright cackling now.\n"Aiko!" He snaps at me, glaring daggers as his face turns beet red.\nHe's too damn cute!\n"You know I had to," I wheeze out, trying to get my laughter under control.\nHis only response is to push me over into the throw pillows, a sour look on his round face.\n"We're not friends anymore..."\nMy giggles begin anew at that.\n"Awwww, I'm sorry Fat-kun," I tell him, sitting up to lay my head on his shoulder. I'm not really sorry though, "Would buying dinner tomorrow make you feel better?"\nHe looks over at me dejectedly, his lips still pouted, then turns back to continue watching our show.\n"I guess," he grumbles and I can't help but grin at him.\n--\nA little over a week later, I can start taking jobs again and I'm able to get Whitney into a shoot I'm doing.\nNow, of course, Fat is going with me every time I step out of my apartment.\nI suppose to a lot of people this would be annoying, but for me, I'm nothing but grateful. Every time he's near, I feel safer. Any time he's by my side, I don't feel like I have to keep looking over my shoulder. Not to mention I just enjoy his company. He never gets overbearing or uninteresting. It's exactly what I need right now. Maybe not forever, but for now, I need his presence just to keep my shit together.\nInterestingly enough, today Suneater has accompanied us as well.\n"Gorgeous!" the photographer shouts as Whitney poses in a bright green babydoll that makes her eyes look even more inhuman than they already do.\nShe's clearly been working on her posing and knows exactly how to turn her head to catch the light perfectly. She's a natural with a really bright future ahead of her. Why did she have to choose hero work instead?\nSuneater is watching her work, although he has little emotion on his face. He might as well be watching leaves fall from a tree.\nI've been standing near Fat most of today but now I just have to stick my nose where it doesn't belong. Because I have to. It's a necessity.\nStrolling over to stand next to him, I look in the same direction he is and see he's still staring at Whitney as she puts a hand on her hip.\nHer wild green eyes meet mine momentarily and she gets this warning expression on her face that she wipes off pretty quickly as she goes back to the job at hand.\nHer warning glare only makes me want to interfere more though. A nudge in the right direction won't hurt.\nSuneater turns his gaze to me, something he seems to have become more and more comfortable with.\n"Ai-senpai," he nods in acknowledgement.\nI nod back then look toward Whitney again.\n"She's really good at this," I say with measured indifference. A simple and seemingly harmless start to the conversation.\n"Yeah," he agrees readily, "I think she prefers this to being a hero."\nThat comment has me swinging my eyes back toward him pretty quickly, "You noticed that too?"\nHe nods again, his eyes not leaving her as she turns her back, looking over her shoulder at the camera. "She went to Shiketsu. I sort of remember her at license exams. She was always good. Never great when she could be. There's a guy in Red Riot's class with a quirk similar to hers and he's at the top of the class."\nI look back to Whitney once more. Her quirk does seem powerful. Why did she never excel in school then?\n"Maybe you should ask her about it," I prod, partially because I'm trying to make Suneater x Bombshell happen, partially because I'm interested to know myself and I could make him tell me later.\nHe thinks about it for a long moment then answers, "No. She wouldn't talk to me about it anyway. She might talk to you, though."\nIt's hard to keep my whole body from slumping. He's such a stick in the mud sometimes. What do I have to say to get him to talk to her more?\n"I don't know. She might talk to you about anything if you just ask."\nThe thoughtful look is still on his face when he responds, "I doubt that. She kinda looks at me weird sometimes."\nI want to shake him and yell in his face "IT'S BECAUSE SHE'S INTERESTED IN YOU!" But I know he wouldn't take that well and it may very well cause him to avoid her if anything.\nIt's going to take time to win him over, I think. I hope Whitney has the patience for it.\nThen again, if she doesn't, she wouldn't be right for him anyway.\n--\nIt's a particularly rainy day at today's lingerie shoot (which is thankfully inside.) The last few days have been overcast and it looks like all the clouds have been saving up for the downpour today.\nThe rain started off relatively light but has gotten heavier throughout the day and we can hear thunder from the set every so often.\nI'm in a black bustier and matching thong with some lacy stockings and I've gotten lucky enough to be able to lay on a giant king-sized bed most of the time.\nWhen I'm finally done with my shoot- which has taken almost an hour to finish- I approach Fat, who's been hovering at the edge of the set only glancing over occasionally.\nHe's clearly uncomfortable being around so many women that are scantily clad even though most are wearing robes when they're walking around. Thank All Might Suneater didn't come. The poor kid might've had a nervous breakdown.\n"These are so comfortable," I tell him, pulling on one of the bra straps to emphasize my point, "They're kinda pricey but I think I should get a set or two. What do you think?"\nHe glances at me for the barest of a second, then averts his eyes again.\n"Uh, it's fine. They're fine. I mean- They look good. Wait. No. They do look good but I'm sorry if that was inappropriate or-"\nI have to bite my lips to keep from laughing but still can't keep in the snort from his awkward behavior. I can't believe I ever thought this man might collect lingerie magazines!\n"Sweetie, this is my job. I'm going to be wearing stuff like this all the time. If you're not comfortable we might have a problem," I say, trying to inch my way into his view.\nFat's shoulders droop and his eyes slide back to me, although he keeps them purposefully unwavering on my face.\n"Sorry..." he scratches at the back of his neck sheepishly, "It's gonna take some getting used to for me. I just don't want to be disrespectful."\nHe's so genuinely damn good. It always pulls at my heartstrings when he's so sweet.\n"Just don't stare at anyone's boobs for too long and you'll be fine," I tell him, patting him reassuringly on the arm.\nI can't keep my laughter in when his eyes almost impulsively go to my boobs before he turns away red-faced, squeaking out, "I'm sorry!"\nOooo I want to tease him so badly! He's such an easy target! Next time, though. He's so nervous this time that he'd probably cry if he felt more awkward than he does now.\n"Fine, I'll go change, then we can get out of here," I offer him reprieve and start making my way toward the changing room located a little ways down the hall, just past the makeup and wardrobe rooms. It's within Fat's view so he hasn't resorted to standing outside the door like he has on a couple other sets.\nI honestly wouldn't mind him waiting outside my room. Knowing he's there makes me feel less anxious. But, once again, I can't depend on him like that. I need to be able to stand on my own two feet at some point. So, as much as I'd like him to always be my guard and keep my anxiety from overwhelming me, I feel like it's for the best if I do some things on my own.\nBesides, he'll only be a minute away. He can see the door. It's fine.\nShutting the door, I scan the well-lit room. There's a little leisure area set up with a loveseat and an armchair along with a vanity as well as a full-length mirror. The room is too small for anyone or anything to be hiding in any shadows so there's no need to hurry for fear of what might be lurking.\nI can hear the rain pitter-pattering on the window which is a mildly soothing sound for me. It calms my nerves.\nAfter taking one last look at myself in my outfit and deciding that I should definitely get a set of these, I begin the lengthy process of unfastening all of the little clasps at the front of the bustier.\nWhen I'm about halfway through, a loud clap of thunder booms, startling me. Then, there's a blindingly bright flash outside my window and everything goes pitch black.\nThe lightning! It knocked the power out!\nThere are a few panicked noises from the girls milling around outside the door but they quiet pretty quickly once they realize what's happened.\nI don't know how long it'll be until the emergency lighting kicks on but any amount of time is too long. It's already been too long.\nTerror seeps throughout my body, freezing me on the spot.\nIt's dark! There are no lights! I'm already in darkness! I'm not safe!\nMy eyes widen in fear and an attempt to adjust to the darkened room more quickly but it's too late, my breaths are coming faster, my heart is racing. A thin sheen of cold sweat covers my body, causing me to shiver.\nI think I hear something. I don't know what it is.\nWhy is it so quiet?! Where did everyone go?! Am I alone now?!\nThe sounds again. No! No! No!\nQuickly, I scramble to the corner next to the couch and crouch, making myself as small as possible as I pull my knees to my chest.\nIt's coming.\nThat thing is coming! It's COMING! It's going to take me! It's going to hurt me! It's going to kill me!\nI can hear its footsteps! It's breathing in my ear! Any second, it's going to rasp out my name and grab me again!\nPlease don't. Please go away. Please don't see me.\nTears pour down my cheeks and my running mascara stings my eyes. I squeeze them shut and cover my mouth to try and keep my labored breaths from being heard.\nPlease...\nThe door to the room opens and shuts again.\nIt's in here now!\nDon't move! Don't breathe! Don't even think! It'll go away. It won't find me. It won't get me.\nI can hear it! I can feel it! I can practically see it!\nAnd then warmth surrounds me. Broad, strong arms encircle me, lifting me under my knees and wings.\n"Ai-chan," Fat Gum murmurs in a low tone.\n"Fat!" I practically scream with relief, burying my face in his chest, "It was- There was no light! And there were sounds and-"\nSobs overcome my ability to speak and all I can do is grip his jacket for dear life.\n"You're safe," he soothes, his cheek resting at the top of my head, breath rustling my hair, "I'm here with you. Nothing will hurt you."\n"I can't- I can't-"\n"You can. You're strong, you're brave, you will make it through this, Aiko."\nHe takes a seat on the couch in one swift, fluid motion, letting me rest in his lap and continuing to cradle me in his arms.\n"You're safe," he says again, running his thick fingers through my hair in the way that I like that always calms me.\nThe way I feel wrapped in his arms- warm and secure- is a feeling I never want to let go of. He pushes not only my fears away, but my doubts and my pain as well. He's what grounds me. He's my pillar and the only thing I feel like will keep me moored in the worst of tempests.\nWe sit for a few long minutes, him speaking in his low, warm tone words that bring me comfort and put me at ease.\nMy breathing finally begins to slow and my body's trembling ceases as his fingers travel lazily through my hair.\nThe emergency lights finally flicker on, casting the room in a yellow glow.\n"Is everything okay in here, Ai- Oh..." a feminine voice comes in and swiftly leaves, the door clicking shut behind her.\nI don't know who it was or why they were checking on me but I also don't care. I don't even turn to look when I hear her. I just keep my face buried in Fat's chest and keep hold of his jacket, letting him soothe me with his reassuring words and gentle motions until I feel like I can face the world again.\n--\n"Happy Birthday!" Fat says as we sit in his office a few days after the thunderstorm incident.\nAfter the power came back on and I was able to change, he took me back to my apartment, assuring me as he usually does, that he would be back in the morning.\nSince then, he's been collecting me every morning to take back to his agency and sit in his office with him or one of his pupils if he has to go out. There, I usually end up working on my planner, sending emails, or just scrolling around the internet.\nNow we have lunch together every day and, most days, dinner too.\nHe, mercifully, hasn't brought up the thunderstorm. I'd probably die of embarrassment if I had to talk to him about it.\nThough I'd never admit it, I'm thankful beyond belief for what he did for me and the fact that he's not forcing me to talk about it. I appreciate him in ways I never knew I could come to appreciate someone.\nLooking at him now, he's holding out a thin square box, not very big. It looks even smaller in his massive hands.\n"What?" Is all I can get out, confused and in disbelief.\n"It's your birthday, right? On your registry change paperwork it said today was your birthday."\nI look up at him still holding out the small box. He remembered from reading a paper I handed him months ago?\n"I... Yes, it is my birthday but... I don't celebrate them," I admit, still in a haze of disbelief that a present is being held out to me. How long has it been since someone gave me one of those?\n"Of course you don't," he rolls his eyes, "Models have to stay twenty-something forever right?"\nIt's true that turning 25 has a lot of negative connotations in my field. But I feel like I still have a lot left in me. I still look youthful. I could do this for a few more years yet.\nThat's not the reason I don't celebrate, though. No one has really celebrated my birthday since high school so I just... stopped.\nFat takes my hand, turning it over to place the box in it, "I promise I won't throw you a party or anything. Just take it and that'll be it."\nI examine the box in my hand for a second before slowly lifting the lid. What could he possibly get me in such a tiny box? Surely not jewelry? Not that I'd say no to it but that's not really something friends get for each other.\nInside sits a small set of stationery items, a cute animal theme adorning them.\n"Fat-kun!" I gasp with delight, pulling out a roll of washi tape that has a cartoon cat in various poses.\nThere are multiple cards of stickers and sticky notes and even a set of gel-pens. It's incredible! It's... It's...\n"It's perfect!" I shove up from my chair to come around his desk and jump on him, throwing my arms around his neck since he's sitting at a level that would allow such a thing. "Thank you, Fat-kun."\nMy wings flutter ceaselessly at my back with joy and he chuckles, "I'm glad you like them."\nHe puts one arm around me, his giant hand going to the small of my back and I sigh, taking in his scent.\nNot the cinnamon scent of lust. The scent of just... him. It smells of his shampoo and whatever detergent he uses to wash his clothes. It's nice. It's my happy place.\nHe sighs too, his head resting at my shoulder and there's a clenching in my chest at the sound and the feel of his breath across my neck.\nA second later, I pull back feeling jittery.\n"Now I get to use them!" I say with a grin, heading back around the desk to my chair so I can pull out my planner.\nFat just gives me his wide toothy smile and goes back to his paperwork.\n--\n"Hey Ai-senpai," Red pokes his head in Fat's office as I sit and work on my planner a few days later. Fat is out at the moment with another hero handling an emergency with a villain that he and Suneater were called away to.\nI'm trying hard to ignore my anxiety about the possibility that he might be in danger. He's always going to put himself in danger. That's his job, after all.\n"Hi, Red," I say as friendly as I can, looking up from my stack of stickers and pens.\n"Whatcha doin?" He sidles in looking mildly interested though I doubt he came in here to ask about this. Maybe he's bored being left behind to babysit me. How embarrassing that a teenager is probably braver than I am...\n"It's called plannering. I'm working on my schedule for next week and I have Fashion Week coming up so I've got all kinds of appointments I have to finalize."\n"Oh. Cool."\nYeah, I knew he wasn't that interested. I go back to my work, assuming he'll either leave or continue our conversation. I'm kinda hoping he'll want to stay and keep the room from being too quiet.\n"So," he starts, sounding far too nonchalant as he sits in the chair in front of Fat's desk, "did you ever find Taishiro?"\nI stop my work again and look up at him. He's bringing him up now? It's been a long while since I was here ranting about Taishiro. Why is he asking this?\n"Yeah..." I draw out the word to emphasize that I don't know where he's going with this.\n"Cool," he nods his head, clearly up to something, "Are you two like... dating now?"\nNarrowing my eyes suspiciously, I answer, "No..."\n"Cool... So are you and Fat-"\n"No!" I sit back in Fat Gum's chair, crossing my arms, "What is this all about, Red?"\nHe shrugs his shoulders, still keeping his casual air, "I was just wondering if you learned anything new about Taishiro or Fat Gum or both."\n"If you want to tell me something, then tell me," I snap. I'm feeling a little testy having to guess and he knows I've always wanted to know more about them, especially in relation to each other.\n"You know I can't if Fat doesn't want me to," he says pointedly, "It's his place to tell you his... secrets or whatever you might want to call them."\n"Is his relation to Taishiro some kind of secret? It seems obvious. They're so similar, it doesn't seem like it's much of a secret." Now he's got me running my thumbnail along my lip, trying to keep from biting it.\n"Yeah, it's almost like they're the same person," he notes, his sharp teeth gleaming with the smirk he's wearing.\n"I... guess..."\nI suppose Red would know better than I do how similar they are but Taishiro feels so much more withdrawn from me than Fat does.\nI still don't know why he's bringing this up, though. Is he that invested in his mentor's personal business? Is he trying to tell me something?\n"Fat's a good guy, though. I hope you know that. He's really good."\nWait... Is this some kind of ploy to get me to notice Fat Gum over Taishiro? Do his employees think I'm triangling them?\n"I know that, Red," I tell him, reaching across the desk to pat his spiky head, "Why do you think I'm sitting here right now? I appreciate everything he's done for me. I'll never forget he's a good man, believe me."\n"But what if he did something to hurt your feelings at some point?"\nI frown, "Like what?"\nRed straightens, backpedaling, "No! I just mean as an example... Like... hypothermally."\n"Hypo-" I snort and nearly burst out laughing but I catch myself, "Hypothetically?"\n"Yeah, like if he lied to you or didn't buy your favorite salad for lunch or something."\n"If he didn't buy my favorite salad?" I chuckle, shaking my head. This kid. His priorities are all over the place. "I guess I'd still remember he's a good man at heart. Then I'd make him fix my salad order."\nRed sighs in relief. I guess that hypothetical really did matter to him.\n"I'm glad," he says, reaching over the desk to pick up a sheet of my stickers.\nI watch his hand as he pulls them back toward him to examine the puppies adorning the small card of paper.\n"Can I have one of these?" he asks, pointing to a puppy with a blep tongue sticking out.\n"Sure," I shrug, trying to keep a straight face as he peels the sticker off and sticks it on his cheek.\nHe bares all of his pointy teeth in a goofy grin, turning his head side to side to show it off, "Whatcha think? Manly?"\nGiving him another thoughtful look, I respond, "Well, men who show their softer side are pretty manly to me."\n"Sweet!" His eyes light up like I just told him he's the number one hero in Japan.\nI roll my eyes with a tiny smile. Fat's pupils are always so adorable, even if they can't always keep their nose out of other people's business. Which, I suppose, is an ironic statement coming from me since I can't seem to either.\n--\nWhitney is at another photoshoot of mine today. She's been able to do a few on her own and, from what I've seen of her shots, she's doing well.\nShe seems to also still be doing well undercover too. From what she's told me, she's already met a couple girls who know one or more of the ones who went missing. She's also been doing a really good job of spreading the rumor that she's hoping to get popular enough to get jobs in America at some point.\nShe's smart, cunning, and hard-working.\nI'm happy to have her with me for as long as she'll be here but not knowing as much as I'd like to about my kohai (of sorts) has been bothering me for too long.\nSuneater said she seems to prefer modeling over herowork. It's nearly impossible that she hasn't been scouted by an agency, especially in a city like Osaka. So she had to have turned a recruiter down, even though this is clearly what she's more passionate about. Why?\n"Am I doing something wrong?" She asks, coming to sit across from me in the lounge area as Fat is off searching for a takoyaki stand and Suneater hovers at the edge of the set, hardly even looking up at the half-dressed girls passing by. He probably shouldn't have come. My assessment of how terrified he'd be on a lingerie shoot is proving accurate.\n"In what regard?" I watch her as she worries her lip with her teeth, her eyes only momentarily darting to Suneater before coming back to me.\nAh I see...\nIt's been a little while since they met and while I'd say they've made progress in being able to hold a conversation, she still hasn't tried to take anymore steps forward and he hasn't even seemed to notice her like that. I don't even know how that's possible. She's not named Bombshell for no reason...\n"You could be asking him that," I suggest offhandedly, "He talks to you without hiding his face now. He might be open to your advances."\n"I don't know. He doesn't seem like he'd react well to any attempts at flirting," she says, her eyes going to him once more before dodging away.\n"Maybe he'd take better to a straightforward approach?" I consider. I don't really have an answer any more than she does, "You know, just saying 'I like you' or 'do you wanna get some food'. Something like that."\nShe shrugs, "I suppose I could try."\n"He knows some things about you, you know. He remembers you from some of your exams in high school, he was telling me."\nShe perks up at that, a shade of pink spreading across her face from cheek to cheek. "Really?"\nI nod in affirmation and she puts her hands on her cheeks like she's trying to cover up her excitement.\n"He told me that you were good at being a hero but that he thought you could be better. That you were always middle of the pack," I ease into my line of questioning although I can see she's starting to understand what's being said, "He- and I suppose I am as well- is interested in knowing why you put so much effort toward modeling but not herowork. You seem like you really like doing this."\nThe pink in her cheeks is gone by the time I finish my question and she ducks her head, making it difficult to see her eyes.\n"Is it that obvious?" She asks, sounding defeated, tired. All of the excitement and energy she had just a moment ago are sucked away now.\nThere's so much tension in her body now that I lean across the table and put a hand on her shoulder, trying to calm her somehow.\nWhen I do, she stiffens and looks back up at me. I'm stricken by how desperate her face looks, her eyes shining with unshed tears.\n"What's going on?" I ask her, lowering my voice to soothe her and not draw more attention to us. Though, I can see out of the corner of my eye Suneater is turned toward us, watching with some interest. Hmmmm...\nWhitney sighs as she massages her forehead between a thumb and her fingers.\n"I have to be a hero. I don't have a choice. I never have."\nWhat?\n"What do you mean you have to?"\nSighing again she explains, "My mom and my dad are also heroes. As were my grandparents and my great grandparents. All of them small time. Never even got their own agency. But when I came into my quirk, everyone thought it was finally our family's time to shine. They thought I could make it to top 10 in the hero billboard chart for sure one day. So they pushed me to develop my quirk, I had to study hard to get into one of the best hero schools in the country, I made sure my grades were always good enough to get me by, and I'm just trying to do what makes them happy and achieve their dream."\nBy the time her explanation finishes my face is contorted in a disgusted sneer.\n"What the ever-loving fuck? You're trying to fulfill your family's dream? What about your dream? Do you even want to be a hero?"\nThis is the least confident I've ever seen this bright-eyed, sweet-faced girl. She just looks down at her hands.\n"I mean, I don't really know. I haven't really gotten much of a chance to explore anything else. This was always the plan for as long as I can remember."\nGoddammit! I feel like punching something! This is so wrong!\n"Suneater!" I yell for him and he straightens, looking in my direction with a startled expression.\n"What are you doing?" she looks up at me, her eyes wild with terror, "Don't tell him-"\n"I'm not," I shush her with a pointed look.\nCoaxing him over, I immediately question him when he joins us.\n"Suneater, how long have you wanted to be a hero?"\nHe thinks about it for a few seconds, probably trying to remember. "Since I was a kid."\n"And why do you want to be a hero?"\nHe doesn't hesitate this time, "To help people. To save people. To stand with people I admire most."\nI nod at him.\n"What's all this?" Fat asks, coming back chewing on a takoyaki ball, a giant box in his hands.\n"Fat-kun, how long have you wanted to be a hero?"\n"I don't know. Ever since I saw a hero saving people on TV, I guess?"\n"And why do you want to be a hero?"\n"Because I love it. I want to save lives, inspire people, protect those who need it."\nHe looks meaningfully at me at that last bit and my face suddenly feels so hot, I have to look away.\n"Did your parents tell you that this is what you have to be?" I ask them both, trying to steer us back on track.\nFat shakes his head, "My mom supported me and pushed me to do what I love. She never said I had to be a hero, though."\n"My dad didn't think I had it in me," Suneater says ruefully and we all turn to look at him, Fat and I with outrage, Whitney with sympathy.\n"Well I-" Whitney starts, then hesitates. Finally, she starts anew, "Someone from a modeling agency approached me in my first year of high school. I thought about it for a while. I was actually really interested and even watched a few videos. It looked fun wearing all that makeup and getting your hair done and trying on different clothes. But ultimately I said no. I already had my future planned and I couldn't stand to see the disappointment on my family's face so I just let it go. I'm genetically predisposed to be a great hero. Shouldn't I be using that ability for the good of mankind?"\n"Mankind already has a lot of great heroes," Fat chimes in, gathering what this is about based on the information he's been given, "Just because you have a useful quirk doesn't mean you have to be a hero. Same goes for the other end of the spectrum. There are people out there who feel like their quirks are completely useless. How do you think I felt when my quirk manifested? They can still be heroes. Even quirkless people can save lives. You wouldn't be letting anyone down by following your own dreams."\n"My family would be..." she mutters halfheartedly.\n"You don't want to be a hero?" Suneater asks her and she turns to him with anxiety that surpasses even his own on most days.\n"I do! I-" she cuts herself off, swallowing thickly, "Would it be so bad if I didn't? Would none of you like me anymore?"\nShe says "none of you" but she really just means him, she's not even looking at me or Fat.\n"That's a weird question," Suneater says, blinking at her, "If not being a hero would make you happy, why would I not like that?"\nWhitney's face reddens and a grin spreads across her lips, "Thanks."\nThen, Suneater's cheeks tinge a light pink too and he abruptly turns away. "It's nothing."\nI'm having a hard time not screaming and jumping around, shaking Fat with all of my strength.\nI could practically hear Ave Maria at the realization in Suneater's eyes and subsequent shying away.\nIT'S HAPPENING! HE GETS IT NOW! THANK SWEET HOLY ALL MIGHT!\nI want to rip all my clothes off and run a victory lap around a soccer field! I want to scream from the top of the highest building! I want to sing "We Are The Champions"!\nFat's eyes meet mine and I can see the mirth in them as well. He's feeling exactly what I'm feeling.\nI allow myself the tiniest smirk and his eyes glitter in response.\n"Let's go get dinner, guys," I say, breaking the silence that's settled over us all, "Let's celebrate!"\n"Celebrate what?" Whitney asks, looking like she's trying to remember if she missed a holiday.\n"I don't know. Two weeks to Tokyo Fashion Week? Being alive? You shouldn't care, I'm paying for it anyway."\nFat laughs and Whitney grins. Even Suneater has a small smile on his face when he looks over at me.\nSo we set off to track down a restaurant and I go arm in arm with my kohai. Truly my kohai. I'm not giving her back.\n--\nA little over a week before Fashion Week, I'm getting calls left and right to come to fittings for shows.\nA few of my regular designers I walk for have already fit me but now I'm getting last minute calls from companies I applied with earlier in the hopes of snagging new clients.\nToday I'm at one such designer and being fit for an outfit that looks sort of dominatrixy. There is a lot of leather going on and my heels have spikes. I can't say I hate it though. I feel powerful in this get-up.\nFat, as per the usual, has accompanied me and is navigating the place as though walking around half-naked girls (and this time men as well) is an everyday occurrence for him now. He doesn't look embarrassed. He's not averting his eyes from every girl who walks by nor is his face turning red. He's even talked to a few of them while they're wearing nothing but a bra and panties!\nI'm proud of him. He overcame his discomfort in order to be here for me. Now look at him. Talking to half naked girls...\nThat's not suddenly discomforting or anything...\n"Fat-kun, you're doing so well now in this environment," I say, poking at him with a devilish smirk after the tailor lets me go for the day.\nHe's been looking interestedly at some of the outfits hanging up but jumps and his cheeks turn pink as his head snaps toward me.\n"Yeah I said I just needed some time to get used to it," he agrees with a nervous smile. He takes in my outfit with an evaluating expression, "You look nice in leather."\nThat catches me off guard. He just said it so casually like complimenting a girl in lingerie is something easy for him. I'm used to him being flustered. I don't know what to do with this.\n"I um..." I'm fumbling with my words, my cheeks starting to feel warm as my tail twitches awkwardly. So instead I decide to deflect, "What are you looking at?"\nNow he looks flustered. Much better.\n"Just the outfits. I thought they were... I don't know. I guess it doesn't matter."\n"Ooohhhh?" I latch onto this turn in conversation, pleased to have caught him in whatever he's embarrassed about, "You thought they were cute? Sexy? That does make me wonder. What kind of girl do you like?"\nWhat is wrong with me? Why am I asking him this? Stop!\nHe blinks and looks down, rubbing his chin as he puts some real thought into this question.\n"Well... someone who's fun and interesting to be around. I'd prefer someone who's confident and kind. I don't know, though. I'm not partial to a cute or sexy or sporty kind of girl. Women can be any and all of those things at once. I just want someone who's good to me."\nI shouldn't have expected any different kind of answer. Of course he doesn't have a type.\n"But probably someone who wants to get married and have kids one day. And a dog named," I snort mildly, "Pochi."\n"I shouldn't have told you that," he grumbles, his cheeks an even darker shade of pink as he turns away from me.\n"Aww don't be like that," I say, moving around his massive body to see his face again, "It's cute."\n"Liar," he mumbles under his breath.\n"It is! It's adorable!" I reach up to his face, taking it between both of my hands, "You'll get your girl and kids and your dog. I promise."\nWhy am I saying this? Why does it make me feel... What is this awkward feeling? I can't let him know that this is suddenly an uncomfortable subject.\n"Who could resist this sweet, smooshy face?" I coo at him like I would a puppy, pulling him so he has to bend down a bit and squishing his blushing cheeks into a silly face.\nFat's broad smile, even distorted with my hands on his face, is infectious. I grin back at him, feeling less stressed gazing into those amber orbs. These complicated emotions that are overwhelming and frustrating at times just don't matter when he's looking at me like that. I don't have to think about what's going on in my brain or what will happen in the future. I can be here now and live in this moment. It calms me. It grounds me.\n"Hey, Fujisaki," a kind, masculine voice startles me.\nI quickly pull my hands away from Fat's face and turn to find a pretty boy with dark red hair approaching us, his face pleasant.\n"Hi," I answer him with a small smile, "Do you need something?"\nI recognize him as one of the other models who was also being fitted today. He's friendly and a very sweet guy as far as I've seen. Rare for models who've made it as far as we have.\nHis eyes go to Fat for a second before landing on me again. "Yeah actually..." His cheeks darken a little and he flashes a dimpled smile. Cute. "I was wondering- if you weren't busy later or anything- if you might want to get a drink or some dinner or something."\n"Oh..."\nMy mind goes blank for some reason. This guy is asking me out. On a date. Like a real date.\nTaking his appearance in, I realize that he's just the type of guy I like- tall, strong, thick- with the added bonus of being pretty. I would usually spot these kinds of men easily as if they were a lit beacon. How had I not lasered in on him milling about?\nHe looks at me expectantly, hopefully. He's not expecting me to immediately jump at the chance. He seems to know that I don't just fall at any man's feet.\nHe could be fun and possibly a really good source of energy if nothing else.\nSo why am I not interested?\nI glance back at Fat Gum who, strangely, has no indication of his opinion on his face whatsoever. He just looks like he's watching how this plays out with no real interest either way. That irritates me. Why does he not care?\nTurning my head back to the beautiful red-haired man, I reply, "I'm sorry. You seem really great and normally I'd say yes but I'm not really in a place to date someone right now."\n"Oh... That's unfortunate," he says, casting his gaze down as though he's embarrassed, "Maybe next time."\nHis words say that but it sounds more like his polite way of never talking to me again.\nThen he walks away with decidedly less energy than he approached with.\nI would say I feel bad but I don't really. I've rejected a lot of men in my day and I was honestly pretty nice to him. It definitely helped that he accepted my 'no' the first time too.\nShould I have said no though?\nTaishiro... I haven't thought of him much in the past few weeks. I haven't texted him or called him. We've just left things like they were when I kicked him out. I intended to tell him I was wrong for how I reacted but then that whole incident with the monster happened and more time slipped by. Now it's been a while and I'm not sure I should get a hold of him anymore.\nWe never agreed on any kind of exclusivity but I wanted exclusivity. Now... I don't know if he'll come back even if I asked.\nI've only just begun feeling a little bit low on energy. I may have to call him soon, whether I like it or not.\n"Sorry about that," I say, turning back to Fat, "Let me get changed and we can go."\nFat looks down at me with an expression that's difficult for me to discern. His smile is gone.\nI think he wants to say something. Probably about that guy.\nInstead, his giant hand comes up to rest on the top of my head and his expression turns to one of gentle warmth.\n"Sounds good to me."\n--\nI'm sitting around, watching shows from last year's Fashion Week and painting my nails a purple-ish gray as I assess how I might alter or improve my walk this year. More attitude? More subdued? How much would be too much?\nI'm trying to distract myself from the fact that Fat Gum is missing from my living room tonight. He told me yesterday that he would be leaving for a few days on some mission up north but he'd be back before Fashion Week and he'd leave Suneater behind to watch out for me. I told him not to bother.\nThings have been getting better for me. I'm not as jumpy as I used to be and, while I still don't feel safe in complete darkness, I don't scurry past shadows anymore. Some time has passed, my nerves have calmed somewhat, and I think Fat being gone might be a good opportunity for me to try a few things on my own. Maybe go grocery shopping or pick up lunch one day in the broad daylight with plenty of people around. Small steps, but important ones to me.\nA knock comes at my door and I jump, smudging my paint job.\nWell shit.\nMaking my way to the door, I open it with a plastered on smile, expecting maintenance or a neighbor or someone else I'll have to deal with as kindly as possible.\nBut my smile slides from my face, replaced by shock.\nAll of my breath leaves me in a huge woosh.\nTaishiro is standing in my doorway, an expression of intense anxiety on his face.\nHe's surprised me once again, though this time I don't feel half as much jubilation as last time he showed up at my door unannounced.\nMy heart has already told me not to hope anymore. Him standing here just makes me apprehensive of what he wants and how all of this will play out. I don't want to be hurt yet again.\nI've only even thought of him a few times this month and let those thoughts go almost as quickly as they came. I didn't call or text him this whole time but, to be fair, he didn't either. I thought we might be done. I wasn't sure but after our last conversation, things sorta felt final.\nJust a handful of weeks ago, I thought I was falling for this man and wanted him in every facet of my life. But he didn't want the same...\nThose beautiful gold irises shine down at me and I can't help but remember the way he looked when I pulled him into my apartment that very first night I met him. I really thought he liked me...\nI do need to feed soon but do I really want to do this all over again? I'd been considering finding someone to bring home while Fat was gone.\n"I'll stay," he breathes out, breaking through my thoughts, "I'll stay with you tonight, Aiko. I want to. I want the same things as you. I really do."\nI can't even get words out. This is something I wanted to hear from him for so long, it's hard to believe he's saying it.\nMy heart aches so badly it's painful. I want to believe it's true. I want to be allowed to want him again. I thought I was okay and I could move on from the heartbreak he left me with but him being here, reminding me of everything I ever wanted from him, saying he wants it too, just hits me with the fact that I wasn't as over it as I thought.\n"You never called or texted," he says, his eyes searching mine, "I missed that. I've wanted to come here like this for so long and I got more and more worried that you might've moved on to someone else, or worse, were starving. If you want me to leave I will. If you're getting energy from somewhere else now, I understand. I just... I don't want you to think I don't want you. I want you so bad, I'm in pain every day not being able to touch you and hold you and kiss you."\nI haven't been getting energy from anywhere else, though. He left me with so much last time that I've felt amazing until only the last few days.\n"Come in," I step back to let him duck into my apartment, shutting the door behind him.\nHis face is still a mask of anxiousness when he turns to look at me again, not expecting my invitation inside to be forgiveness or acceptance.\n"I'll stay with you," he says again, "I've always wanted to sleep next to you. Please just believe that."\nI do believe him. Why would he lie about that? To get in my pants? He's already gotten that. If that were the only thing that mattered to him, he'd have been long gone by now.\n"Do you just have sex with me because you pity me?" I ask, getting straight to the point, "Are you only doing it out of some sense of duty?"\nHe looks bewildered at my question. "Of course not! I don't pity you at all! I sleep with you because I-" he stops, his jaw tightening, then picks his sentence back up, "because I want you. Because you're gorgeous and smart and cute and funny and because you're so forward, you make me feel confident enough to express how much you turn me on."\nI chuckle at that. He's still as honest as ever.\n"I'm sorry for last time. And the time before that," he says, stepping toward me and brushing large, rough fingers along my jaw.\nHis fingers are so warm and they light a trail of fire along any part of my skin they touch. How does he still affect me so damn much?\n"I'm sorry too. I shouldn't have gotten so upset. I was unreasonable and I said things I didn't mean..."\nHis fingers at my chin now. He tilts my head up to look directly into his beautiful golden eyes, shining down at me with intense affection.\n"Will you let me stay?"\nMy breath catches in my throat and I can't say anything for a moment. I can hardly even breathe. The way he's looking at me tells me exactly what I want to know.\nHe really is being honest. He really does want this. He really does want me. Even if circumstances mean we can't have a real relationship right now, he'll come when I call and he'll do everything to be here for me.\n"Yes," I whisper, gripping the oversized tank top he's wearing with both fists.\nAnd that's all the answer he needs to lower his soft lips to mine, pulling me closer with the same movement.\nI almost immediately melt into his embrace as he sighs into my mouth like he's been waiting for this kiss for years. It's tender and sweet and tastes better than he's ever tasted before.\nThere's something new in his flavor now. Something's changed since we were last together. What could it be?\nEnergy pours from him as his tongue meets mine nourishing me and heating my blood. So much is coming from him, that when I move my hands beneath his shirt, it almost feels like I can sense it just under his skin.\nHe pulls back. "God, I missed this touch," he whispers to me, leaning lower to kiss along my jaw, then down my neck.\nI don't intend to make the tiny whimper that comes from me at the feel of his tongue on my collarbone but I can hardly contain how needy I am. It's been nearly a month since he's been here. Even without needing energy, I never realized just how badly I yearned for this kind of intimacy. My whole body is crying out for more\nI push him back gently, ushering him toward my bedroom where I intend for us to stay for the rest of the night.\nWhen he realizes my intentions, a mischievous smirk comes to his lips and he boldly grips my ass, making me squeal and laugh as he lifts me, pulling my legs to wrap around his waist.\n"Someone's impatient. And here I was, trying to be sweet and romantic," he chuckles into my ear, making my tail curl.\n"Is fucking you not romantic?" I ask innocently, "I guess I don't have to. We could just sit on the couch and-"\nHe drops me, none too gently on my bed and my sentence is immediately forgotten as he climbs up after, hovering over me.\n"I'll cuddle you when I'm done with you," he growls into my ear, sending waves of heat throughout my body.\nHe better make good on everything in that promise.\nHis lips are already at my throat again, warm and pliant, travelling downward once more. Past my collar bone now, licking and kissing and nibbling until he reaches the edge of my camisole.\nI gasp when he tugs it down, taking up his exploration again until he finally reaches the peak of my breast, my nipple already hardened and waiting for his attention, which he readily gives.\n"Taishiro!" I gasp, squirming at the way his tongue swirls around the small bud as his mouth gently sucks it further in.\nHe groans at the sounds of his own name and it nearly undoes me. Fuck! He is fucking masterful with that mouth of his.\nWhen he moves away, he doesn't give me the chance to even be disappointed before it's already at my other breast, pulling my nipple into his mouth and starting his ministrations all over again.\nMy fingers are combing through his thick, curled hair, fingernails grazing against his scalp. I can feel him hardening against my thigh and my mouth waters just at the thought.\nThis huge behemoth of a man makes me so damn weak. My body melts under his touch. My heart races under his gaze. He has so much power over me, it's almost embarrassing. But he never exploits it. If anything, he appreciates it. He understands that this is rare and to be treasured.\nNow his lips begin to travel even further downward, licking at the soft flesh under my breast, moving yet again toward the small valley delineating my abdominal muscles.\nMy breaths speed up as his mouth moves further down my body, my skin feeling like it's burning where his tongue explores.\nIt's moving past my belly button now and I can feel his fingers digging under the waistband of my shorts, inching them down my thighs along with my panties.\nHe stops just inches above where I want him to be and I glare down at him, need and desire coiling in my core.\n"You're always so wet for me, honey," he grins, pulling my shorts and panties the rest of the way off and discarding them on the floor. He pushes my legs up so my thighs rest on his shoulders now and I can't pull my gaze away from his pink, swollen lips. "I bet you taste," he kisses one of my thighs, "so," then the other, "delicious."\nThen his mouth is consuming me, his tongue diving between my folds with slow, languid motions.\nWhen he sucks softly at my clit, I cry out, convulsing involuntarily as I grip his hair for dear life.\n"Taishiro! Fuck! Yes! Please!"\nI don't even know what I'm saying or asking for. I just know I like what he's doing and that his tongue is fucking magical.\nHe varies between long strokes along my folds and paying special attention to my clit, slowly gaining in speed.\nHis tongue lingers on me as though he truly does find me delicious and can't get enough.\nWatching his mouth on me, the way his face delights in each tiny gasp and cry I make is the single most erotic thing I've ever experienced in my life.\nHis hands have been gripping my thighs up until this moment, when he smoothly slides one down and positions two fingers at my entrance.\nI can feel him there, waiting. I don't know what for though. It's frustrating. I want him now! I need him.\nI buck my hips, trying to push his fingers inside me and he chuckles, his golden eyes coming up to meet mine.\nHe was teasing me. He was just waiting to see how long it would take me to demand he finger fuck me.\nThe threat in my glare is plain as day. "Do it or I will make you do it."\nHis fingers plunge into me just as he starts on my clit again and the sound I make in response is more animal than human.\n"Fuck, yes! Right there! Fuck me right there!" I scream, my walls tightening around his fingers as he pumps them into me, knowing exactly where to hit.\nHe groans, probably enjoying the fact that I'm enjoying him.\n"Don't stop!" I cry. I can feel my orgasm looming with every stroke of his tongue and thrust of his fingers.\nHis motions never tire or weaken. He seems to only get more energetic as I whimper and grip his hair tighter, pulling him in closer.\n"Fuck, Taishiro, I'm gonna cum! Please keep going! Please don't stop!"\nHe doesn't answer- as he shouldn't- and he doesn't stop. He keeps his rhythm, breathing heavily as my walls constrict even further around his finger.\nThen I'm falling, my whole body tensing, back arching, wings spreading wide, as my orgasm washes over me and I scream my pleasure, trying- and failing- to not wrap my legs around Taishiro's head as I spasm.\nThankfully, he's strong enough to pry my legs apart again, freeing himself and pushing himself back up to face level.\n"You're so beautiful," he murmurs, his eyes dancing with emotion as he watches me, still riding out the last waves of my orgasm.\nMy heart skips a beat hearing that. How does he always make those words actually mean something to me?\nI smile up at him, bringing a hand to his face, "And you have the most amazing tongue known to mankind."\nA blush spreads across his cheeks and he actually looks shy! How could he possibly be shy after that?\nPulling him down to meet my lips again, I taste my juices on his tongue and they seem to somehow just enhance his flavor. It's like I was made for him. Or he was made for me. Or we were made for each other.\nWe lay there, our limbs tangled together, just making out and our hands wandering to places on each other's bodies that we missed touching the most this past month.\nI'm so content and euphoric just laying here in his arms like I've always wanted, knowing we have the whole night and neither of us is in a rush to go anywhere.\nBut then his hand slides around my ass and down my leg, pulling my knee up to his hip, and I feel the firm pressure of his arousal against my inner thigh, so close to the heat between them.\nTaishiro pushes himself up on his elbow to look me in the eyes, his heavy lidded with lust and contentment.\n"I want you," he purrs, the fingers that had pulled my leg up to his hip now lazily stroking my hip.\n"I want you," I answer in turn, a smile playing at my lips and my heart squeezing at the tiny dance we just did around a different set of words that are often laid out very much the same.\nHe brings his hand up to brush the backs of his knuckles against my cheek, intense emotion and unsaid words crackling between us.\nHis erection is so damn distracting though. It's there, pulsing between my legs, making me wetter and wetter with every second that passes by.\nIt doesn't seem like he's planning on doing much about it any time soon. How can he just sit there with that delicious cock mere inches away from being able to sheath himself in me and fuck me senseless and just do nothing?\nI've had enough. A girl can only take so much when the literal bone she wants is just sitting there waiting for her.\nI push him roughly onto his back, my excitement only growing when I see his eyes widen in surprise.\n"What are you-"\n"Shhh," I cover his lips with my fingers, "I'm gonna make this a good night for you."\nThe desire that roars to life in his eyes makes me feel powerful and like the dirty little seductress I was made to be.\nI finally ditch my cami and begin pulling off his clothes too, letting them join my shorts on the floor.\nMy wings flutter at the sight of his naked body before me, his length lying against his belly, a bead of precum, gathering at the tip.\nUgh I want to lick it off. But if I do that I'm just gonna want to suck his dick. And while I know that would be enjoyable, I already know what I want most.\n"Are you ready?" I ask in a rough, sultry voice, swinging one leg over him to straddle his hips and lowering myself onto his body, letting his hardness rest between my thighs but not positioning him at my entrance. He has to answer first.\nHe nods, looking like he's having a hard time breathing as he watches me, eyes travelling up and down my body, not sure where he wants to look most.\n"What was that?" I lift a brow, a devious smile curling at my lips.\n"Yes," he wheezes out, "Yes Aiko, yes!"\nNow who's impatient?\nI begin rubbing myself slowly along his length, back and forth, my wetness making it easy to glide along his shaft.\nI groan, biting my lip as I stare down at him.\n"What do you want from me?" he whines, his hands going to my hips, fingers digging into the soft flesh there, "I- I'll give you whatever you want I just-"\nHis sentence doesn't get finished as I bury his cock deep into my core and he growls, his grip tightening.\n"Aiko!" he pants in surprise, "God, you're gonna kill me!"\nMy tail whips side to side as I grin down at him.\n"Already? But we just started..."\nHe quiets then and just looks up at me with reverence as I begin to move, rocking my hips against his in languid movements at first to ease him into it.\nI've never gotten to be fully in control of our love-making and the elation it brings me is a whole new seduction. Knowing that the expression of ecstasy on his face is caused exclusively by what I'm doing makes me even hotter.\nNow I move faster, lifting myself up only to bring myself back down, slamming him into me each time I do.\nTaishiro's hands go to my ass, helping lift my weight and squeezing the flesh there at the same time.\n"Aiko," he grunts out through gritted teeth as I bounce on his cock, " Fuck... You feel... so good.."\nI lean down to him, not breaking my rhythm, and trail my tongue along his chest, eliciting a gasp from him when it reaches one of his nipples.\nEven like this, his flavor is incredible. The taste lingers on my tongue just making me want to taste him anew.\n"You like that?" I ask him playfully, raking my nails down his chiseled abs.\n"Yes," he answers quickly. I'm training him well to answer my questions.\nI swirl my tongue around his nipple once more and he sucks in another breath. I feel his cock twitch inside of me and it makes me giddy to have that kind of power over him.\nSweat begins dripping down my back as I continue my feverish movements, moving myself up and down his length and I see a sheen coming to his skin as well.\n"How about this?" I ask again, then change the angle of my hips to push him even deeper into me, hitting all new places, and starting a whole new rhythm.\n"Oh god, Aiko, you're gonna make me cum like that," he groans out, squeezing his eyes shut to help keep from doing just that.\nWhy is it so damn hot when he says things like that? It just makes me want to be even more dirty.\n"Then cum for me," I purr, pulling one of his hands away from ass and bringing it to my breast.\nHe's quick to knead the supple flesh, making an even more desperate sound than before.\nMy body reacts so easily to his touch, when he rolls my nipple between his fingers, my muscles tighten and he grunts at the way my walls clench around him.\n"Aiko!" he can barely breathe out, "I'm gonna- I'm gonna-"\n"Cum for me," I whimper, drawing in the throes of my own ecstasy, "I want to feel you inside of me!"\nAt that his whole body goes taut and he lets out a loud growl, slamming me down on his cock so I can feel him pulsing inside of me, filling me. And it just makes me even hotter.\nMy wings begin to flap as I start moving on him again, the slickness of his cum and my own juices making the movement up and down even easier.\nHe grips my hips and begins moving me against him, hitting the perfect spot to make me cry out with every thrust. But, apparently, he's not done.\nHis thumb goes to my clit and deftly circles that small bundle of nerves as he works me up and down his shaft and I can't take it anymore.\nMy pleasure mounts higher and higher, my cries growing louder and higher pitched, until I finally feel my own release, my wings spreading wide and beating furiously.\nTaishiro watches with a look of extreme satisfaction as my wings try to catch the air and send gusts of wind around us, then he pulls me down to him, his lips meeting mine and opening to let our tongues intertwine.\nHis flavor is still there, slightly more simmered now, but there and leisurely pouring into me.\nI lay on top of him for a while, kissing him as slowly as I want, relishing in the decadence of his taste and the way his arms circle my waist.\nI'm so happy, I'm beyond that. I'm overjoyed.\nTaishiro is here, in my arms, wanting to be here, wanting me. Telling me he wants a future with me. When I met him in that darkened alley so long ago, I never dreamed he would mean anything more to me than another notch in my belt so to speak.\nIt's amazing how things work out sometimes. After all of the horrible and painful things that have happened to me lately, it's nice to finally have something good.\nAfter cleaning myself off in my bathroom, I pull on a new pair of panties and a nightie, I crawl back into bed with Taishiro, who looks so exhausted he's about to pass out.\n"You okay?" I ask, sudden panic hitting me that I might've gone too far.\n"No, it's okay. I'm okay. I'm just a little tired," he assures me, petting my head and pulling me down to lay with him.\nSettling down into the crook of his arm, I put an arm around him, melding myself against him. He's warm and he smells good. I admit he's not as soft as my pillow but he's still comfortable enough that I'm able to drift off to sleep within a matter of minutes, not caring for the first time in weeks that I forgot to leave my TV on.\n--\nI blink awake to the sound of a knocking on my bedroom door.\n"Good morning," Taishiro says with a wide grin as he opens the door. He looks downright angelic, he's so happy.\n"Morning," I groan, sitting up as he comes in, wearing only his boxers and carrying a small tray with all kinds of breakfast foods on it.\n"I hope you don't mind I already ate," he admits with a blush, "I woke up and I was starving. But I still made you breakfast."\nMy heart warms at his thoughtfulness and I smile back. "It's fine. Don't worry about it."\nHe nods and sits on the bed with me, making small talk while I eat.\nI get dressed while he takes a shower and make my way out to the couch, turning on the TV as I sit down and see that a new episode of Honeymoon for Twelve is available to watch now. Crap. Now I have to wait a few days to be able to watch it with Fat Gum.\nThen, out of nowhere, a thought hits me.\nFat left. He left right before Taishiro came here.\nHe knew. He knew Taishiro would come. He possibly even encouraged him to come. And he left to let us spend time together. It's possible he didn't even have anything to do up north at all.\nI clench my jaw, trying to keep whatever this splintering feeling is from swallowing me whole. My heart feels like it's being squeezed to death.\nFat-kun...\nHe did this for me and I... am I happy? Am I thankful? Am I angry?\nI feel sick. Everything I just ate feels like it might come right back up any second.\n"Hey, I'm probably gonna need to leave in another hour or two," Taishiro says, fresh out of his shower with floppy wet hair and plopping down next to me, "I'm sorry I can't stay longer. One day I hope I can stay as long as you want."\nHe senses my discomfort when I don't immediately answer him.\n"Is everything okay?" he asks, running long, thick fingers through my hair the way I'm so used to Fat doing.\n"Sorry," I say, snapping out of my reverie, though my roiling stomach hasn't subsided, "Yeah. I'm just still tired I guess. If you have to leave, it's okay. Thank you for spending the night. I had a really good time."\nWhich is true. Last night was heavenly and Taishiro gave me everything I ever wanted and more.\nMy heart still skips a beat when he looks into my eyes. My skin still heats when he touches me. I still want him. I still want this.\nSo why do I feel like I'm being torn apart from the inside out?\n

Chapter 14:\nI'm sitting on the phone with Tomoyo discussing my schedule for Fashion Week, adding sticky note after sticky note to my planner, and color coding each different event I need to attend.\nI'm feeling more nervous for this than I even did for my first one. My anxiety is tearing me apart so I'm doing my best to stay busy and prepare.\nIt's practically guaranteed Jared will be there and I'm not doubting that plenty of other people involved in this ring will be lurking around as well. Every person involved in the trafficking investigation is coming to watch, interview people, and try to keep everyone safe as well.\nIt's still unclear if my attack had anything to do with it at all but Fat Gum has already made it clear that he's going to be there with me.\nI've discussed it with every designer I booked with and they've been more than happy to accommodate him. My attack has made a lot of girls nervous, thinking they might be next, many of them are afraid to even come to shoots or walk at shows. Having a hero around will calm a lot of fears.\n"There's going to be a party the night before Fashion Week officially begins. I want you to go to that. Make an appearance. Let everyone know you're doing well," she instructs.\nHer assumption kinda pisses me off. After those initial texts, she never once checked up on my mental or physical health.\n"The fuck? How do you know if I'm alright? Did you even ask?"\nShe pauses a moment, then responds with, "Well... are you doing okay?"\nI roll my eyes. "I am now. Thanks to Fat Gum."\n"That's nice of him," she says in an unconvincing tone.\n"You know he's coming, right?"\n"Yes, I know," she sighs. She's still so obvious about her disdain for him and I do my best to ignore it. As long as she's not insulting him, I'll let it go. "You've been dragging him everywhere so I guessed as much. People are going to start thinking you're dating if you keep going everywhere with him."\nMy cheeks heat and I'm suddenly feeling incredibly defensive.\n"No one thinks we're dating. We're just friends! He's guarding me! He's just... helping me out. That's not your problem anyway."\nThe line is silent for long enough that I think the call might've been dropped.\n"Hello?"\n"Just come to the party. Bring him, I don't care. But you better be there," she speaks again finally, her voice sounding cold and hard.\n"Fine. Whatever. I never said I wasn't going," I snap back. Her attitude lately has really been getting on my nerves. We were far more cordial once. What happened with her?\n--\nFat gets back into town (or so he says) only the day before we're meant to leave and calls to tell me he'll come get me in the morning.\nI don't know why but I'm feeling nervous and awkward at the idea of seeing him again after Taishiro spent the night.\nShould I thank him for giving us some space? Is he really even responsible for it? He has to be, right?\nMy stomach is so queasy the next morning that I can't even eat breakfast. I've been packed and ready for days so I just sit on my couch, listlessly staring at my TV until I hear a knock at my door.\nTaking my time getting to the door, I open it to find Fat standing there, as expected, holding a duffel bag full of clothes and grinning wide from ear to ear.\n"Hey, long time no see," he chuckles, "You ready?"\nAll of my worries and doubts instantly just float away when I see that round, joyful face and I smile. Even when my anxiety involves him, he still has that effect on me when he looks at me like that.\nNo, I won't say anything. I'll just let things go back to the way they were and we can just keep being friends. No need to bring up his brother right now.\nSo we take off, taking the train to Tokyo. Our conversation is easy and lighthearted the whole way there and by the time our train pulls into the station, all of my previous nerves have been forgotten.\nI made reservations at the host hotel for us to have adjoining rooms. It'll be the first time since the night I was attacked that he's slept nearby and I'm looking forward to sleeping a few more peaceful nights knowing that he'll be right next door if anything happens.\nThe others, including Whitney, should be here in the morning. She's still too green to have been booked in any shows in the first lineup, but she did make it into a lot of substitute spots in case any girls have to cancel.\nSuneater is looking after the agency while Fat is gone so I promised him I'd find him some really interesting food for him to try out a new manifestation. Although, he didn't seem too upset to not have to attend an event where he might be mobbed by girls like he was last time. His response to me bringing up offhandedly that Whitney would be there was a simple, "I hope she does well." I guess it's technically progress...\nAfter settling in, I start my routine to get ready for the party while Fat goes out to find a snack.\nI've gotten about half of my makeup done and am still working on my eyeshadow by the time he gets back with his takoyaki. I swear the man has a radar for those things.\nHe sits and munches on the little batter balls, watching as I finish my makeup and start on my hair, waving it then pulling the front half back into a braid.\nWhen I'm nearly done with that, he departs to his own room to get ready, obviously needing far less time than I do.\nI've chosen a baby pink cocktail dress with a sweetheart neckline. It hugs my body nicely and is perfect for the occasion. There's usually dancing and lots of drinking at these parties, even if they're meant to be a professional atmosphere. I think part of it might be meant to test the models. See who is there to take her career seriously and who's there to party.\nI've never been a fan of them myself and now I'm practically being forced to go.\nKnocking on the door between our rooms, I wait for Fat to tell me I can enter and find him in a state of dress that gives me a headache just looking at it.\n"What are you doing?"\nFat looks over at me with surprise at my question.\n"Tying a bow tie?"\nI blink slowly at him, my eyes going from the bow tie dangling from his neck to the yellow hood poking out from under his jacket.\n"No."\n"No?"\n"You're not going to the party looking like that," I say, motioning toward his outfit.\nHe's wearing his hero costume under his tux, the yellow hood still pulled tight around his head.\n"I've worn it like this a million times," he argues, "No one's ever said anything about it."\nMy eyes widen at him. "Are you serious? You look... Well..." I screw my face up trying to think of the right euphemism and failing, "Well, like I said, I can't let you go like that. Come here."\nI beckon him with a wave of my hand and he obliges hesitantly, looking a little worried.\nThe moment he's in reach, I pull his bowtie and jacket off, already starting at the buttons of his shirt before he gets the chance to complain.\n"Aiko!" he pulls away, looking mildly shocked.\nI roll my eyes at him, giving him an unamused stare.\n"Don't act like a virginal schoolgirl. I'm taking off your costume jacket, not groping you. Get back over here."\nHis cheeks are a light shade of pink but he unwillingly obeys, moving back within my reach so I can keep unbuttoning his shirt.\nHe's quiet while I work, watching my hands as I deftly unfasten each button, then pull on the zipper to his costume.\nI'm starting to feel weirdly embarrassed as I pull the zipper tab lower and lower. My cheeks are getting warmer and my hand slows the more my discomfort grows.\nWhat is getting into me?\nFat stays still, keeping his eyes on my hands as I continue finally getting his costume jacket fully unzipped and pull it off of him, leaving him in his tank top.\n"Th-There," I stumble over my own words like an idiot, "now let's just get the shirt and tux jacket back on."\nStill quiet, he reaches for his shirt and pulls it back on, allowing me to button it up again, then he puts his tux jacket back on over that.\n"Now all that's left is this," I pick the bowtie up and wave him to come closer.\nHe looks down at me for a second as though he's unsure if he really wants to. Why? Is something wrong with me tying his bowtie?\nBut he eventually bends lower, allowing me to put it around his neck.\nMy fingers are nearly trembling as I go through the motions of this particularly tricky knot and I speed up, wanting to ease this tightness that's appeared in my chest as quickly as possible.\nWhen I finish and straighten it, I lift a hand to place delicate fingers on his mask,"You can keep this, though."\nHis eyes were already on me and I meet them now, my chest only tightening further instead of relenting. I can't even breathe. They're such a brilliant shade of rich yellow and they glitter like gold. I love looking into those bright, honest eyes.\nHis expression is warm and open. I always feel like it's inviting me to come closer, to let him put his arms around me, to give him all of my trust, and I can depend on him not to hurt me.\nIn typical Fat Gum fashion, his mouth widens into a grin, "Thanks."\nMy wings flutter behind me and I'm finally able to step back, pulling my hand away, the trance broken.\nShit.\nI think I might be in trouble...\nI think I might-\nI can't finish that thought. Not even in my head.\n--\nThe ballroom is already full of people when we enter. There seems to be a dancefloor- as I suspected- toward the middle, surrounded by a bunch of circular tables that look to seat about six people each.\nRight near the entrance is a lavishly catered buffet that I see Fat eyeing already and at the back wall is a bar stocked with any liquor or spirit one could imagine, if the bottles I see on the shelves behind it are anything to go on.\n"Oh my god! Aiko!" Mizuki squeals coming over to give me a hug and faux peck on the cheek. I haven't seen her since that day on the beach. That seems like years ago now.\n"Oh. Hey Mizuki," I greet, mirroring her, "How have you been?"\nShe shrugs, "Busy. Lots of work out of town."\nHer eyes land on Fat then go to me, eyebrow raised.\n"Oh, right. Mizuki-chan, this is Fat Gum, my escort for the party tonight. He's a hero in Osaka," I say, looping my arm through his.\n"Nice to meet you," Fat says, bowing shallowly with a friendly smile.\nMizuki nods at him with a smile I recognize all too well. It's one that says she's got some gossip to tell someone else about you and she just can't wait to run off and start yapping.\nAnd just like clockwork, she says, "Well, I better get around to some other people. I'll see you later, Aiko-chan."\n"Bye," I say, waving as she goes. I can't wait to hear whatever rumor about myself she's off to spread in the near future... I turn to Fat when she's gone then, "I kinda have to mingle for a little while. You're free to come with me if you want but you can also go sit or just do your own thing." I make an obvious show of looking toward the buffet and he grins.\n"I'll stay with you and go for that later, when we can sit and relax."\nWarmth blooms in my chest at his easy willingness to make this a team effort.\nA large part of the reason I still haven't gotten tired of him being around, even as my anxiety fades, is how he just makes everything seem so much less stressful. He lights up a room with his presence. Nothing feels unbearable when he's there with me.\nSo I take him around and introduce him to anyone I start a conversation with. Few know who he is already. Much like myself, most of those in the modelling industry tend not to follow heroes, especially not those who aren't in the top ten.\nMany bring up my attack and ask how I'm doing. As Tomoyo requested, I insist I'm doing well and that I haven't dealt with another monster since. Their relief upon hearing this is apparent on everyone's faces. The models are glad to know they're safe to keep working and the designers are glad to know their cash flow won't be slowing any time soon.\nI wish I could inform them that nothing is safe at all; that there's a trafficking ring in our midst and girls are being taken left and right, never to be heard from again. It feels wrong to reassure them of their safety when there's still plenty of a threat. But I can't say anything. This investigation is confidential and my attempts at warning anyone could only make it harder to find the ringleaders and put an end to this nightmare.\nAs is common, Fat escorting me around garners plenty of stares, all from quizzical to downright horrified. It's worse than how it usually is when we're just walking down the street together. I should've guessed these people would be more judgemental than anyone.\nIt doesn't make me feel embarrassed, though. How could I ever be ashamed to have him at my side?\nBy the time we finally get around to seating ourselves at a table, a couple hours have already passed and it's getting to be late evening.\n"You grab some food. I'm sure you're hungry by now," I tell him, motioning once more toward the buffet that still has plenty of food left, "I'm gonna head over and get us some drinks. Is wine okay? Do you even drink wine?"\nFat gives a small laugh, "Yes, I drink wine. That's fine with me. It doesn't have to be anything fancy."\nThat's something new. I never would've guessed he drinks wine.\nI nod and he heads off toward the buffet, a greedy look to his face like he's already found something he wants.\nAs I watch him go, I get this weird thought in my head. This is what a date with Fat-kun could be like. Getting dressed up, him going for food, me going for drinks. It's all so...\nStop! Stop.\nWhy do these thoughts just keep popping up in my head unbidden? I need to get a grip. Is it because he seems so much like Taishiro sometimes?\nShaking my head, I make my way toward the bar and order two glasses of red wine. I'm not much of a wine snob so I don't ask for anything specific or expensive and the bartender tells me they'll be right out, walking away to get glasses.\n"Aiko-chan, we meet again," Mizuki's voice reaches me and I turn to find not only her, but four other girls who've been in the business for a while. They used to be at almost every shoot I was in back when we were teens. I suppose they could be considered good acquaintances at this point.\n"Hi girls," I greet them, fully turning to face them.\n"I'm so glad you're doing okay," one girl with a bengal cat face, Ino, says, "After I found out what happened to you, I was so scared I cancelled all of my plans for a week."\nI nod, "Yeah, it was... something. There's still no new information on it but I haven't been attacked again so it may have just been some weird freak thing."\n"And you've gotten a hero or two to follow you around, it seems. That must help," says another pearlescent-skinned girl, Minako.\nBefore I'm able to answer, Mizuki pipes up with a smug expression on her face.\n"Yeah, your date... He's been hanging around you a lot, I hear. He's kind of a big deal, isn't he?" Mizuki lifts her brows with a tiny giggle and the other girls around me titter as well.\nI smile awkwardly, a little confused why she's saying it like that, "Well, he's a hero..."\n"And I guess he's gotta have a pretty big... personality if you're okay with that being all over you," Minako says and the rest of them let out a round of giggles again.\nThey don't seem to understand that he's here as my friend and not my... significant other. But that's not what really pisses me off just now. I didn't want to see it with the first comment, but now I get it. They're making fun of him...\nHeat rises in my cheeks and I squeeze my hand into a fist, digging my nails into my palm.\nI want to speak up and say something to excuse it like, "But that's part of his quirk! He has to be fat in order to do his job! It keeps him safe! He's completely healthy!" But I don't. Because none of those things should matter. I shouldn't have to give them a reason why they should treat him with decency. They should respect him regardless and the fact that they think they can rail on him in front of me tells me they don't know a good goddamn thing about me, even after all these years.\n"You're all being a bunch of catty bitches tonight," I say in a dark, low voice and all of the girls stop their giggles to stare slack-jawed at me.\n"That's pretty rude, Aiko," Mizuki says with a little scrunched up offended face.\n"Then maybe you should stop talking shit about my friend, asshole," I hiss at her, my tail snapping at the floor.\nMy defensiveness is palpable. Who could talk bad about Fat Gum? He's a good man. He's sweet and kind and caring. He's an amazing hero, he mentors students and does a million other worthwhile things and they're gonna judge him based on his body?\n"You don't even know that man. He's fucking amazing and he's done more for the world in one day than any of you will ever do in your lifetimes," I almost feel like I'm about to cry and I realize that it's because I'm not just talking to these awful petty bitches, but also to myself. Because I looked at him when I first met him the way they are now. I didn't say it. But I thought it.\nAnd I was surprised he didn't like me?\n"Geez, Aiko," Mizuki says with a wicked glint in her eye, "Desperate much? "\n"Mizuki," I growl, barely audible over the music as my wings flare out, "If you keep talking, I'm gonna rip your pretty lips off of your face and make you kiss my ass with them."\nAll of the girls gasp, taken aback by my extreme threat of violence. I'm not sure I've ever stood my ground this strongly with them before and I think it's a surprise to most everyone, including me.\n"Fuck off," I snap at them and Mizuki glares at me, although she smartly chooses not to speak. Then they all move off as a whole- probably to just gather elsewhere and keep gossiping like a bunch of old ladies with nothing better to do with their lives.\nFeeling guilty somehow, I take the drinks the bartenders left on the bar for me and start making my way back to the table, seeing that Fat's just made it back with about four plates of food- probably the most he could hold at present.\nI do my best to shake off my rage and put on a more pleasant face. The last thing I want is for him to ask why I'm upset.\n"Aiko!" another girl from my agency approaches me, waving a hand, and I stop for her.\n"Manami," I say, trying to put the best friendly smile on my face. I'm not angry with her after all.\nShe came to the agency about a year after me and she tends to mostly get jobs for department store catalogues. Something about her light brown hair and big blue eyes must say "wholesome" to vendors.\nShe bounces in front of me, clearly excited about something. "Aiko, someone told me you came here with Fat Gum! Is that true?"\nI narrow my eyes at her, already feeling my hackles rise in defensiveness again.\n"Yeah. Why?" I say curtly, feeling distrustful.\nShe can tell I'm suspicious and she waves her hands in front her, trying to show she means no harm, "Oh no! It's nothing bad! I just went to the same junior high he did and they talked about him all the time there. They're so proud of producing such a successful pro hero!"\nMy expression softens, seeing that she's being truthful and has no ill intentions. Finally someone who understands him like I do!\n"I was hoping," she says poking her pointer fingers at each other timidly, "that you might introduce me to him?"\nMy eyes widen slightly. Oh! She's a fan!\nI smile at her, "Yeah. Of course!" A bit repentant at my earlier rudeness, I nod my head toward where I'm headed, leading her back toward my table, "Sorry about that. I was worried you might make fun of him."\n"Oh no! I would never!" she assures me, "He's an incredible hero!"\nWhen we approach the table, Fat looks up and gives his usual goofy grin.\n"Fat-kun," I say tilting my head toward Manami, my hands still full, "I wanted to introduce you to one of the other girls at my agency. Manami, this is Fat Gum."\n"Hi, Fat Gum-san," she says enthusiastically, "It's so great to meet you! I went to your old junior high!"\n"Oh!" he says with a friendly chuckle, his eyes alighting, "You did?"\nHe watches me put down his glass of wine in front of him as she responds and talks a little more about their old school. I look back at him, my eyebrows raising, urging him to continue the conversation.\nHis eyes go back to her and they seem to fall into a rather comfortable back and forth.\nI'm glad at least one person here isn't being a rude asshole about him. I don't know what I was thinking, bringing him here to a party that's for people who almost exclusively care about looks. That's how we make our money and that's the currency by which we judge others. It's so damn shallow... Is that really who I used to be?\nSipping at my wine, I watch the dancefloor, a mass of beautiful men and women writhing around to the music. I tap my toe with the beat of the song playing and kinda wish I could be out there. I don't know if Fat Gum would want to dance and if he didn't, I don't know if I want to just leave him here on his own.\nI hear loud laughter from across the table and look to see Manami and Fat laughing jovially. They seem to be enjoying their discussion at least.\nManami places a hand on his shoulder, still laughing at- I assume- something he said.\nMy tail flicks and my eyebrows twitch.\nThey still look like they're just having a friendly conversation. It's not exactly easy to hear from where I sit on the other side of the table but I don't want to get up and move closer if it's going to seem like I'm being nosey.\nI look rapidly between them, both with wide smiles, and my eyebrows certainly lower a bit more, especially when I see she hasn't removed her hand.\nI don't like this feeling that's suddenly roiling up inside of me. Nausea curls in my stomach and I feel like someone's squeezing my rib cage.\nManami is a sweet girl. A wholesome girl. She was the only person at this party who went out of their way to be friendly toward Fat. So I'm not enjoying the fact that I want to rip her hand off at the wrist and shove it down her throat.\nI don't like this.\nI'm not dumb. I know what jealousy feels like but I also know I have no right to feel it. Fat is just my friend. He's been a really good friend. That's why he's here with me. He's given up so much of his time and energy to be here for me. I owe him so much.\nAnd now I'm gonna go and act possessive over him? How unfair is that?\nI have to get up. I have to move away so I can at least not be so negative or start glaring daggers at the girl.\nI stand abruptly, my tail swishing back and forth, betraying the calm, amiable mask I've pulled on.\n"I'd like to go dance," I tell Fat, only giving him a quick glance, not looking fully for fear my expression might falter, "You'll be okay here for a little while without me?"\n"Yeah, that's fine," he says, nodding, and Manami gives me a little kind smile before turning back to speak animatedly again.\nFor some reason I feel even worse as I head toward the floor, that twisting in my gut actually getting physically painful.\nI tighten my jaw. I need to just forget about all of this. I should only be focusing on letting my body move to the beat.\nWhen I step onto the floor, I do my best to push my way into the crowd, swaying and flowing with the other bodies. My mind isn't perfectly blank- I still feel my chest compressing- but I feel better to be away and not have to see them conversing at least.\nPart of it isn't even the fact that I was upset by her touching him. That's all it was after all. I've touched him a million times by now.\nI'm upset that it bothered me at all and I hate that it's making me feel this way. It's like a spiral of self-loathing.\nI have to keep my tail and wings tucked in close, not wanting to bump into anyone if I can help it.\nI dance to a few songs, just letting the music move me and trying to ease the tension in my chest. The song shifts and I breathe a little easier.\nI like this song. I've loved this song since I was a teen, replaying it over and over in my room during homework.\nI sway with the upbeat tune, my violet curls sticking to my sweat-dampened skin in some places, and I let my tail loose a little, making lazy "S"es in the air behind me.\nI find myself singing with it too but it's so loud nobody else is able to hear it anyway.\nA song about love, as usual. A song about how much better life is with the one you love than without. The usual cheesy lines with the usual cheesy set up. But this was part of my childhood and I can't help but smile, feeling a little better now.\nMy smile wavers when I spot Fat- Manami-free now- standing near the dancefloor, a solid few yards away from where I'm dancing. There are quite a few bodies in between us but I can see and feel his gaze on me, watching me move.\nThat compression that had faded comes back ten-fold but instead of hurting, it somehow makes me feel giddy that his eyes are on me now.\nMy smile returns and I know he can see that I'm looking back at him because he shifts slightly, running a hand through his light blonde curls.\nAnd suddenly I feel like no one else is there but us, as stupid as that sounds. Our eyes are locked on each other and my mouth is moving, singing the words of this cheesy love song from my childhood that no one can hear, my body moving to the beat.\nHe smiles and my own gets bigger.\nHe probably thinks I'm just having fun and is glad to see me enjoying myself. He doesn't know that I am because he's here and he's smiling at me.\nOur eyes stay on each other until the song ends and the music shifts once more to something I'm less familiar with. Then I extricate myself from the mass of bodies once more, walking toward Fat Gum.\n"You don't have to stop," he says gently when I come up to him, his eyes a shimmering amber that watches my every move, "You can keep having fun."\n"I'm fine," I tell him, laying a hand on his arm to indicate my willingness to stay with him, "Let's get out of here. I can only stand so much of this and I did what I came here to do."\n"Where do you wanna go?" He asks, completely accepting of the change of plans.\nI shrug, "I don't know. Let's go to a bar or something. The night is still young!"\nHe gives me a quizzical look, "You want to go to a bar where we have to pay for drinks as opposed to the one right there," he motions to the bar at the back of the room, "where we'd get them for free?"\n"Yes," I tell him, my face turning serious, "That's how much I hate it here."\nFat laughs, placing a giant hand atop my head, and my heart glows a little.\n"Whatever you want, Ai-chan."\nMy wings attempt to rustle behind me but I turn it into a stretch, extending them and my arms up and knitting my fingers together, then letting them fall back to my sides.\n"Let's go then!" I pull on his hand, coaxing him away from this awful party full of superficial people and he allows me to drag him along without a second thought.\n--\nWe're... I don't know how many drinks in anymore. Five? Eleven?\nFat seems fine. I'm sure with a big frame like that, his alcohol tolerance has to be astronomical.\nI, on the other hand, started feeling tipsy about two shots ago. Now I'm somewhere between sloppy drunk and drunk off my ass. I can't seem to get this grin off my face, my whole body feels warm, and literally everything is hilarious right now.\nIt doesn't feel bad, though. I'm more relaxed than I have been for the past month and it's nice to be able to bond with Fat this way. Part of me wishes Whitney and Suneater were here too. Secretly, I just kinda want to see what Suneater would be like. I'm promising myself I'll find out one day.\n"I'm tired... and drunk," I say busting out laughing at my own words.\n"Yeah," Fat agrees with some laughter of his own, "I noticed."\n"It's still better than that stupid party, though."\nFat rubs at his chin thoughtfully, "I didn't think it was all that bad. A lot of people were staring but that's not too abnormal. There were some nice people there too."\nA sudden dagger of jealousy stabs at me all over again and my humor dissipates almost immediately. By "some nice people", he means Manami. She was the only one who was more than minorly courteous to him.\n"That reminds me," I say, trying to keep my voice casual, "What happened with Manami?"\nHis demeanor changes slightly but I'm not sure if I'm imagining it. I could imagine a lot of things when I'm drunk.\n"What do you mean?" he asks, sounding a bit confused.\n"Well, you were talking to her when I left and the next time I saw you, you were next to the dance floor."\n"Oh," Fat's face turns thoughtful again, "well, we talked for a bit and she left, then I came and found you."\nI watch him for a long moment. It's so hard to figure out if I'm imagining anything or not. Why does that not sound like that was it?\n"She seemed like she was excited to meet you," I push, still keeping my voice even, though I keep my eyes on my drink, "She's really nice and sweet. She gets hired for a lot of department store stuff because she's got this whole wholesome aura about her. You'd probably like her."\nWhy am I saying this?! Why can't I SHUT UP?! What the fuck is wrong with me?!\nMy chest is hurting more and more, like it was before, even after I've stopped talking.\nFat's being quiet but I still can't stand to look at him.\nIs he considering what I told him? Why am I so STUPID?!\nAfter what feels like hours in my overactive mind, Fat finally responds, "I liked her but I don't think-"\nI hear a man loudly- obviously- clearing his throat behind me to get my attention and I'm instantly irritated.\n"Excuse me, could I-"\n"No! No you may not!" I snap, whirling on the man before he can get the rest of his sentence out, "Can't you see I'm here with someone? Don't you know how rude it is to hit on someone when they're already out with another person?!"\nThe man looks horrified that I've begun this tirade on him. "I'm sorry, I just-"\n"No! Fuck that shit! What? You think because he's fat, he's not with me? Well he is! He's a hero! He's amazing! And he's adorable! Now go away!"\n"Ai-chan," Fat lays a large, gentle hand on my shoulder, warmth in his voice, and I turn back toward him to see his eyes practically glowing with amusement, "I think he just wanted to order a drink. The bar's full."\nLooking around, I realize he's right. The bar's filled up in the time we've been here and now every single eye is on me.\n"Oh I- I'm sorry. I didn't mean..." My face feels even hotter than before and I lower my forehead to my cupped hand so I don't have to see all of the judgemental stares coming my way any longer, "I'm just gonna go now."\nI rush toward the exit, keeping my face buried. When I get outside, the air is less stuffy and cools my burning face as I head back toward the hotel.\nWhat a complete ass I just made of myself. What the hell is wrong with me?! So much for feeling good while being drunk. I guess it only lasts when you're not acting like a total idiot in front of the guy you're falling for.\n...Oh fuck.\nOh fuck!\nShit shit shit!\nI can't think that! Put that thought back! Put it back! I didn't think it! That's not true! Put it back!\nI'm trying so hard to take it back. I can't think these things.\nTaishiro... He wants what I want! One day, he'll eventually come back and stay. I want him to stay! Even just thinking about him makes my chest ache with longing so WHY?! Why is this happening? Why can't I put that thought back?!\n"Ai-chan," Fat's voice comes to me through my thoughts and I start upon feeling his hand at my back, my tail straightening and wings flaring. He pulls back, seeing my reaction but his eyes soften toward me, "It's alright. It wasn't that bad. That guy's reaction was hilarious so don't feel bad."\nHe grins at me and I just stare back, overwhelmed by all of my conflicting emotions bombarding me at once.\nMy head is swimming. I can't control all of these thoughts and feelings coming over me and I hate it. Fat is supposed to be my source of comfort, the person I can hang onto when everything else around me is going to shit. But more and more lately, seeing his face has caused me more unrest than contentment and I want it to stop. I can't take this.\n"You wanna tell me what all that was about?" He asks, "You seemed a bit touchy in there."\nOf course he would notice. He always notices.\nI sigh into the slightly chilly night air, casting my gaze downward.\n"There were girls at the party who-" My jaw clenches. It still pisses me off and now I have the added fear of hurting his feelings. "They were being assholes... about you..."\nI still can't look at him. I'm terrified of seeing his devastated face. I don't want to hurt him. I never want to hurt him.\n"Ai-chan," he says again with a soft chuckle, his hand returning to my back, "Don't you think I've gotten used to things like that by now? I know people are gonna make fun of me. It doesn't bother me because it doesn't matter. I know who I am and I know what I have to offer. What other people say about me doesn't matter."\nNow I look up at him to find his eyes on me, a sympathetic smile on his face. Why is he sympathizing with me? He's the one who's been insulted!\n"You might be used to it but I'm not!" I snap. Not at him, I'm just upset by this whole situation and having to finally face the fact that this is his constant reality. "I can't stand it! You're a beautiful person, Fat-kun!" My wings fidget awkwardly behind me, "A-and you're not unattractive..."\nFat laughs! He laughs like I've just told one of the funniest jokes he's ever heard! Does he not believe me?\n"You're so cute when you're drunk Ai-chan," he says, his eyes glittering with amusement, "You're so sweet and honest. I expected you to be... not like this. But you're a deredere at heart."\nMy entire body heats up like an inferno.\nAhhhh! This is not helping me put those confusing thoughts away!\n"I'm being serious! I won't let anyone insult you in front of me! You don't deserve that! You're good, Fat-kun!"\nFat's eyes crinkle at the sides with the grin he's wearing, "What really matters to me is that you think that."\nMy heart warms. I don't deserve the comfort he's giving me but he's doing it anyway.\nWe continue to move down the street, passing throngs of people as we go, and the next thing I know I'm falling, about to smack my face into the concrete.\nFat catches me around the waist and sets me back on my feet.\n"Having a hard time walking there? I think you might've tripped over... the ground." He laughs at his own joke and I can't help but giggle a bit over my own stupidity. "You gonna be able to make it the rest of the way without eating the pavement?"\nI tsk at him, slightly offended, "Yes, I'm fine. I think I'll manage."\nAnd, of course because the universe cannot allow me to make a statement without undermining me, my wing immediately gets caught in a planter next to a shop and I'm yanked backward, nearly falling on my butt.\nWhat the actual fuck? When was the last time I ever got my wing stuck in anything? Am I that drunk?\nFat's laughing his ass off at me and I make a sour face at him. Of course I can understand why he finds it entertaining but my pride tells me to be pissy about it.\nWiping a tear away from his eye, Fat's able to calm his laughter enough to ask, "Are you okay? Do you need me to get that out for you?"\nBut I've already managed to free my wing, now I'm just pouting.\n"Ai-chan," he chuckles again, seeing my grumpy face, "Don't be mad. I'll carry you the rest of the way if you want."\nMy annoyance dissipates and is replaced by nervousness. He would carry me?\nFor some reason, Taishiro suddenly comes to mind. The way he carried me princess style to my door. I don't know if I want Fat to do the same. How strange it would be to share a similar memory.\n"I don't know..."\n"Aiko," Fat says, his voice becoming more serious, "I don't know how many times I have to tell you that you're not a burden. I'm offering because I want to help you, not because I feel obligated to or guilted into it."\nMy lips curve up slightly at that. He thinks my hesitation is because I don't think I deserve his hospitality and kindness. I admit that I've felt that way in the past and, even now, wonder how it's possible I've gotten someone like him in my life. But being around him so often has made me less surprised about his generous offers. I bet he'd be horrified if he knew the real reason I'm second guessing myself...\n"So much for Fataxi," he sighs.\n"Fat Taxi?" I ask with a look of interest, "Do people call you that?"\n"Well, not really. It's just where I use my quirk to transport people from one place to another. I've done it for some of Red's classmates before and-"\n"Do it," I command, my eyes lighting up like a christmas tree.\n"Wait... What? You want me to Fataxi you back to the hotel?" he asks, his face conveying that he doesn't think much of this idea.\n"Yes! Take me back to the hotel like that! Please!" I grin widely at him. I'm so incredibly excited at the thought. I wonder how it feels? I bet it's comfy and squishy and warm.\n"No... Ai-chan. That wouldn't be..."\n"Pleeeaaase!" I beg him, "I want to ride! Let me ride! Pleasepleaseplease!"\nFat's eyes widen slightly and he looks away, his face turning red.\nPfft. Pervert.\nBut I'm not offended by where his thoughts went, my body actually feels warmer knowing that. My tail curls and uncurls restlessly, as I hold myself back from being even more provocative to see what other reactions I could get from him. It's tempting though...\n"Are you afraid I'll tickle you or something?" I giggle at the thought of him being afraid of something so ridiculous, "I promise I won't."\nHe considers me a moment, taking in my laughing face then heaves another huge sigh.\n"Fine," he says, rolling his eyes, "but don't make fun of me."\n"Fat-kun, I would never make fun of you," I tell him, truly meaning it. Sure, I tease him sometimes but only so long as he's having fun too. If I thought I might be hurting his feelings, I'd never do it. "Now let me in."\nI abruptly take a running start and throw myself at him, arms outstretched.\nHe catches me, his deep-bellied laughter shaking the both of us and I grin up at him, holding tight as he cradles me to his chest.\n"Are you sure?" he asks, a more serious question in his eye than his cheshire smile suggests.\n"Yeah," I reply breathlessly, part from laughing so hard, part from how close his face is to mine now.\nWithout any further prodding needed, I begin sinking into him like a really deep memory foam mattress.\nI sink and sink until I'm surrounded by his bulk except for my head and it is a truly wild sensation. I was right. It's soft and warm and kinda comforting in here.\nHe starts to walk and I can hardly even feel it. It's like the best shock absorption ever.\n"This is amazing," I tell him excitedly, "I feel like a little baby kangaroo!"\nHe laughs and I'm surrounded by it, feeling the vibrations. It makes me laugh again as well.\nHis clean, soapy scent comforts me as we continue on and I don't know if I've ever felt safer in my whole life. It's no wonder he's so unashamed. Why would he be? This quirk is incredible!\n"Out of the way, peasants!" I yell at anyone who dares tread in our path.\n"Oh my god... Aiko!" Fat groans, seemingly embarrassed or horrified or both. But he also doesn't stop me, even when I tell people that I'll have him step on them if they don't move.\nEveryone moves anyway, he doesn't have to make good on my threats.\nWhen we finally make it back to the hotel, he insists I get out to go up to the rooms. I guess he's worried I'll sass someone who might hold sway in the modelling industry and doesn't want me to embarrass myself.\nOur hotel is taller than my apartment building and has a humongous open area in the middle that the hotel room doors open out to overlook. It's really incredible to look over the railings and see all the way down to the giant fountain in the lobby and look up to see the sky in the glass ceiling above.\nThere's an elevator with glass walls that lets you look out into this open atrium area as you go up and I look out of it now, watching as the ground floor gets further and further away. I didn't think it was all too cold when I was initially walking out in the night air, but ever since Fat forced me out of the Fataxi I feel nothing but cold.\nHe was more than just warm, he was... like a comfort blanket. And now that I don't feel his warmth around me, even the temperate hotel air is frigid.\n"You feeling okay?" he asks, "You got quiet."\n"Yeah," I lie, "Just thinking."\n"About tomorrow? Are you nervous?" He hands me an easy out and I nod, more than happy to take it. "You'll be fine. Everything will be fine. I'll be there, Rock Lock will be there, Lady Boa, Siren, everyone. It's gonna be a big event but, even if something does happen, it'll be okay. We're prepared."\nI believe what he says. I trust him. I know he'll never let anything happen to me when he's by my side. That's the reason I'm not actually too worried. That or this alcohol is really doing its job well.\nThe bell to the elevator dings and we step out on our floor.\nLooking over the rail, I can see the lobby is still lively, even as it's nearing midnight. They know shows start as early as 7 AM tomorrow, right?\n"Here," Fat says, handing me his phone with a video pulled up, "Maybe seeing a video of your fuzzy boyfriend will help calm your nerves."\nHe places a hand at my back, below my wings and every single millimeter of me his hand comes into contact with superheats and prickles with excitement.\nAs he starts the video, I see my "boyfriend", Bento, making chattering noises at a squirrel in a tree outside. The squirrel seems unbothered and goes about snacking on a pinecone it's acquired as Bento chatters away. That is until Fat's voice is heard saying, "I don't think you're gonna get him, buddy."\nBento ignores him and crouches.\nBefore Fat can say anything else, Bento jumps at the window, smacking face-first into the glass.\nI gasp and the most obnoxious guffaw I've ever made in my life comes out of my mouth that I cover immediately.\nThe video cuts off as Fat's also laughing and getting up to check on him.\n"Better?" Fat asks, and I nod.\n"Are there more?" I look up at him, my vision blurring from the tears my laughter caused.\nHe smirks at me and something in my chest pulls tight, my wings echoing the sentiment.\nFor a second, Fat's eyes shift just over my shoulder, then come back to mine, something shifting in that golden gaze.\nThe painful feeling of being torn apart inside comes back to me, threatening to suffocate me.\nIt's so unbearable. I feel like I'm just being tossed around in a storm and have nothing to hold onto.\nI want Taishiro. I want him to be in my life. I want to be around him. I want to know him better.\nBut I already know Fat. I am around him all the time. He's a permanent fixture now and I never want that to change. He and Taishiro really are similar but Fat is here. He always has been.\n"Sure," he says, putting a small amount of pressure on my back with his hand that has yet to move from its place there, "Let's get you to your room and I'll let you watch the rest."\nI smile brightly and relax into his touch as we start walking again.\nMy heart is beating so hard, I can hear it in my ears. He's not moving his hand. It just rests there, firm and sure, guiding me along.\nMy drunken brain is so tired and overtaxed. My heart is overwhelmed and aching.\nI can't keep as tight of a leash on myself as I usually do. I've been trying all night and I just can't push this down any longer.\nFat is the most amazing person I've ever met. He's good to me in ways no one ever has been.\nHe's... I'm...\nI love him. I want him. I don't deserve anyone like him and I'm not the girl he sees in his future but I... I want him to want me.\n"Fat-kun..." I say quietly, continuing to walk but looking down at my feet.\nHis voice answers, gentle and low, "Yeah?"\n"I- I... I think... I mean, I'm pretty sure actually... I..."\nI can't get the words out. I'm a fucking coward.\n"Calm yourself," he soothes, gently rubbing at my back, "Just take your time."\nFuck me. Now that I've accepted it, literally every single thing he does just makes me more sure of it.\nI may be drunk but it seems that my cowardice has overpowered my liquid courage tonight.\n"I need to brush my teeth first. All those drinks left a weird taste in my mouth."\nHe chuckles. "No problem. I'll wait. You can change if you want to be more comfortable too."\nI nod as we reach my room and I unlock it, pushing the door open.\n"I'll just be a couple minutes," I say, grabbing a pajama set from my suitcase, where I've left all my clothes because I'm a heathen who refuses to put things into drawers for an entire week.\nFat takes a seat on my bed as I scamper into the bathroom to quickly change and brush my teeth.\nI love that man out there, I think to myself as I look into the mirror. My cheeks are still slightly flushed but I've never felt prettier than I do now, watching my eyes practically glow with happiness.\nPausing, I realize something.\nI am happy. My chest doesn't ache any longer. I don't feel sick or like I'm being torn apart. I'm not confused anymore. I'm not adrift in a storm.\nI love Fat Gum.\nAnd I'm going to tell him.\n...But maybe tomorrow.\n--\nThe first thing I'm aware of when I wake is warmth.\nI'm not covered by a blanket but I'm surrounded by softness and am so cozy. I almost want to go back to sleep, especially since my alarm hasn't gone off yet.\nBut as my brain becomes more aware, my eyes slowly flutter open and I realize I'm sharing my bed.\nThe softness I'm cuddled up to is a large body taking slow, lazy breaths, still sleeping.\nFat-kun...\nMy heart leaps and immediately begins thundering in my ribcage at this realization.\nFat stayed here last night. He slept in my bed with me. I don't even remember falling asleep. What were we doing? Something dumb like watching cat videos, right? We were watching videos of Bento and when we ran out, we switched to others that we found on the internet. I must have fallen asleep at some point.\nI remember feeling so comfortable, so safe...\nHis arm is around me, holding me to him as he lies on his back.\nMy heart feels so full, it's like warmth and light are pouring out of it to fill the rest of my body.\nLooking into his peaceful face, my realizations from last night come back to me. I've been feeling Fat pulling at my heart for a while now but still caring about Taishiro- still hoping that he'd show up at my door every so often- has made it hard to face what's been happening.\nNot to mention the connection between them. What would Taishiro say if I wanted to stop seeing him? Especially if the reason for it were his brother?\nFat's still sleeping so I don't feel bad snuggling close again, laying my head on his chest. He's so broad and soft and warm. No one has ever made me feel as accepted and understood and safe.\nI hear him take in a long, sharp breath, meaning he's waking up. I'm not sure what I should do. Should I just stay here snuggled up to him? Should I move away before he's fully awake? Maybe I could pretend to still be asleep...\nI forget all of that, though, when I feel his arm tighten around me, realizing I'm still tucked into his embrace, and he doesn't pull away. He pulls me slightly closer.\nThe warmth in my heart increases tenfold to the point I think it might burst.\nI turn my head up toward his face and I find his eyes already open, golden orbs glimmering down at me.\nMy eyes are bouncing back and forth between his, trying to read the expression there. He looks so serious for once, like he wants to say something, like something is eating him alive.\nI push my weight up, shifting a little closer and try to gauge his reaction to this.\nHe doesn't move, just keeps his eyes on me...watching.\nI'm reminded suddenly of the first kiss we ever shared. The ridiculous one that saved my life. The one that got my brain to start realizing that Fat Gum could be more than an acquaintance; that I wanted to get to know this amazing person.\nI edge closer again- eyes still trained on his- leaving only a handful of inches between us and the look in his eyes shift.. They soften toward me, looking comforting, unafraid, like home.\nI'm moving ever closer now, unable to keep my eyes from glancing a couple times to his full, pillowy lips, where I'm hoping for mine to touch.\nIt's getting harder to breathe as there lay only two inches, then one, between us.\nI don't even know if he's breathing anymore at all as he lies perfectly still, waiting for me to close that last tiny space between us.\nI push just a little bit further forward and brush my lips softly, so feather-light against his.\nA small intake of breath is all that signals to me that he even felt it as his hand holding me to him tightens a miniscule amount around my waist.\n"Aiko," he breathes, the air he expels grazing over my heated lips.\nI go in to push my lips more firmly against his this time but as I'm about to, my phone begins to ring and I jump back from him like a cat who's just been bopped on the nose.\nScrambling for the nightstand, I check my caller ID. It's Tomoyo.\n"Yes? Please tell me the world is ending, cause it better be," I snark into the receiver, glancing over at Fat Gum to see his reaction. He's already rolled over, pushing himself into a seated position at the edge and I can't see his face anymore.\n"Aiko, a girl is sick this morning. She probably partied too hard and can't make it to this shoot for Jared. He's specifically asking for you to replace her. He won't have anyone else. Can you please come down here and just do this shoot for him please?"\nMy eyes widen. Jared...\n"Hang on a sec," I say and snap my fingers at Fat Gum. He turns with a look of mild bemusement for me getting his attention this way but he's paying attention nonetheless.\nHitting the mute button I tell him quietly for some reason- it's not like Tomoyo can hear anything with the phone muted, "Jared is asking for me for a shoot downstairs. Should I go?"\nHe mulls this information over for a second and reaches a decision fairly quickly.\n"Yes. Go. I'll be with you. Maybe we can get more info from him if we can be subtle," he tells me and I nod in affirmation, hitting the mute button again.\n"Okay," I tell Tomoyo still with a hint of annoyance, "I'll go. But tell him he owes me. Like a lot."\n"Sure thing," she sighs, forever seeing me a little brat. Then she hangs up the phone.\nI have to get ready now. They're waiting for me. I have no time to work out what just happened with Fat Gum right now.\nIt seems he believes the same as he stands and moves toward his room, not even casting another look my way.\n--\nIn under fifteen minutes, I'm showered, dressed in a tank and sweatpants, and ready to go.\nFat meets me outside of my room, back in his hero costume, his hair looking damp from a shower as well.\nSomething seems wrong though and it's making me uneasy.\nI keep sneaking glimpses at him but he never looks my way. He's not smiling. He's not even talking to me.\nDoes he think that was a mistake? Is he upset? At me? At himself?\nWhen we step into the elevator, we stand on opposite sides and are just quiet as we make our way down.\nThe silence is so unsettling. What is wrong?\n"Ai-chan," Fat says in a low, gentle tone, breaking the oppressive quiet.\nMy eyes go to him readily, hoping to see his face finally grinning and excited, hoping to see the feelings I have for him reflected back at me. But his face looks troubled, worried, and I don't think it's for this photoshoot we're about to walk into.\n"I have to tell you something. I should've told you a long time ago but now I have to."\nMaybe the reason he looks pained is because he wants to say the same thing I do but he's afraid of how I'll react. Does he still see me as the same girl who looked at him like a monster when we first met?\n"I have to tell you something too," I say, trying to bring my hope and my feelings forward in my expression so he knows I'm not scared, that I don't look at him like that anymore, that... that there's something more than friendship between us.\nBut seeing my face, he seems to look even more tortured. Is he trying to reject me? Is that why? Because of Taishiro? Or just because he doesn't feel how I feel? I've come so far and grown so much because of him. I'm so terrified of losing our friendship but at the same time I'm not the type of person who can sit back and smile, knowing I feel so strongly for him. Even if it means tearing what we already have apart.\n"Aiko," he says tenderly, reaching out to me, "It's about Taishiro."\nOh please please don't tell me you don't feel the same. Please don't tell me you can't do this.\nI can feel tears beginning to pool at my lower lids as he brushes gloved fingers against my cheek.\nNo wait! I changed my mind! I'll sit back and stay quiet a little bit longer! Just please don't end things!\nBut he knows. He can already see it. I can't take it back. It's all going to be ruined.\n"I'm-"\nSomething slams into the elevator and the whole thing shudders and comes to a stop as the glass siding shatters, little shards flying everywhere.\nFat's already in front of me, shielding me from the sharp projectiles as I duck my head, adrenaline rushing through my veins. What the hell is going on?\nI can hear people on the ground floor screaming. Something is horribly wrong. Could it be villains? Now? Why are they attacking the hotel?\nThe elevator shudders again as some gigantic flying monstrosity attaches itself to the outside and leans into the side where the missing glass is.\nMy blood runs cold as I realize it looks like some distant cousin to the thing that grabbed me in between the trailers.\nNo. No please!\n"Fujisaki Aiko," it growls, its disgusting breath stinking up the whole elevator.\nTerror drags its cold, dark fingers down my back, my wings trembling like the rest of my body wants to do. This thing... it wants me just like the other one did.\nI can't help but clutch desperately to Fat Gum's jacket, not wanting him to move, not wanting it to see me, not wanting it to take me as I know it will if it can get its hands on me.\n"What do you want with her?" Fat asks in the strongest voice I've heard from him. Not even a wobble when facing this horrendous thing. He's so much braver than me. He's so much stronger than me. It truly takes something special to be a hero like this. It's not just fame and glory.\nIt doesn't answer the question, just roars into the elevator, making my ears ring in the silence after.\nIt moves, shaking the elevator again, as it reaches in, but Fat Gum turns, pushing away its effort to get around him to me.\n"You won't touch her," Fat tells it, no doubt in his voice. "You'll have to go through me first and we both know that won't be happening."\n"Fat," I plead quietly. I don't even know what for, I'm just scared for him, I don't want him to be in danger as much as I don't want myself to be.\n"It's okay, Ai-chan," Fat says, glancing back at me, his expression and his voice softening toward me, "This is what I do. I won't let it have you."\n"Fujisaki Aiko," the monster roars again, howling as it tries to claw for me and Fat Gum's body shields me once more.\nMy brain begins working again and I realize we have to get out of this tiny space. If we can get out, we might be able to get away.\nI slam on the buttons to the elevator, trying to get the doors to open. Even the "Open Doors" button isn't working. They won't budge.\nNext, I try to pry the doors open with my strength alone but still nothing. Fat would probably be able to do it but he's still shielding me from the monster as it swipes at us.\nHe grunts and stumbles back a step before regaining his footing.\n"I can't get the doors open. We're trapped," I whisper panickedly into his back.\n"I've got this, Ai-chan," he says even while fending off another blow from that huge, swiping hand, nearly the size of my torso, "Don't worry. You're okay."\nBut I'm not okay. Not when he's standing in front of me, taking blows for me just to keep me from this thing's grasp.\nThe monster's finally realized that it will, in fact, have to go through him if it wants to get to me and begins attacking him more directly, its giant hand trying to grasp at him- presumably to just pull him out and drop him- but it's unable to wrap its fingers all the way around his bulk. It redoubles its effort into punching and clawing at him instead.\nAll the while Fat stands steadfast in front of me, shielding me, pushing away the attacks that he can.\nI don't see how he has this. He doesn't seem to be able to even attack and his costume is being torn to shreds.\nFat attempts to grab its hand at some point but, like mine did with the thing before, his hands seem to slip right off, unable to get a good grip.\nThe beast roars again, swiping more furiously.\nWhy am I so worthless? Why can I do nothing but huddle here in a ball and hope it won't reach me? Why does Fat even think I'm worth protecting?\nNo one's come to help us yet. Are they afraid of the monster? Aren't Lady Boa and everyone else here yet? Where are they?\nIt's been minutes now and I'm truly terrified for Fat. He looks so beat up. Why won't he attack? Is it because of me?\n"Fat-kun, please! Don't just take this for me. I'm not worth it!"\nFat blocks another blow, stumbling one step back, and I have to hold my fearful cry in my throat.\n"You are, Ai-chan," he says, sounding peaceful, resigned, "You're worth everything."\nSharp needles dig into my heart and a lump forms at the back of my throat. Why is he talking like that? Why does he sound so defeated? He's not... he's not gonna lose is he? He's not dying right?!\n"Fat-kun?" I ask in a barely audible voice. My eyes rimmed with unshed tears, watching the scene playing out before me.\n"I'm so sorry," he almost whispers, his voice hollow, strained.\n"For wh-"\nI don't get the question out before there's a blindingly bright flash of light emanating from Fat and I have to shield my eyes, then have to swap to my ears as the monster begins roaring, screaming in pain.\nHe's doing it! He's winning!\nI can't see what he's done but the creature falls abruptly silent and I feel myself being drenched in the disgusting liquid like I had been when Whitney blew the last one up.\n"Fat? Is it gone? Are you okay?" I ask as I start wiping the muck away from my eyes.\n"...yeah," he responds a couple seconds later, sounding weary, and I breathe a sigh of relief.\nFinally feeling confident enough to open my eyes, I see the ground covered in the same inky substance as before.\n"Fat! You did it! I was so scared but you-"\nMy breath catches in my throat and I blink a couple times, then frown, unsure if I'm seeing who I think I'm seeing. Then I blow it all out at once just to find myself struggling to take another breath in.\n"Tai... shiro?" I'm barely able to squeak out through my stuttered breaths, still trying to remember how breathing works.\nTaishiro- Fatgum? Who is he?- stands in front of me, jacket in tatters, much like he appeared the night I first met him. He's looking at me with sorry, regretful eyes.\nAnd suddenly I feel so so stupid. Fatgum is Taishiro. Taishiro is Fatgum!\nI grit my teeth against the absolutely shredding hurt I feel, tears burning at my eyes trying to leak out.\n"I'm so fucking dumb," I whisper quietly, my heart squeezing in my chest, threatening to suffocate me.\nBrothers. I'd thought they were brothers!\n"It's almost like they're the same person," Red had said. He knows. Suneater knows. They all know. They all think I'm an idiot. I am an idiot.\nEvery time Fat made it possible for me to see Taishiro... it was him.\nI've been... I've been sleeping with and cuddling and loving Fat this whole time... And he pretended like we were just friends!\n"Aiko," he says, exhaustion clear in his voice. He seems like he might collapse.\nI've been ashamed and confused because I thought I'd been falling for one brother while having a semi-relationship with the other. They seemed so similar! They smelled and tasted the same! And I just tried to rationalize it because how could they be the same person?!\nI should be happy, shouldn't I? I thought I had to choose between them. I thought I might be tearing a family apart. Now that they're the same person, I should be happy.\nBut I'm not. It hurts. It hurts so badly that if I let myself start these tears threatening in my eyes, I'm afraid I genuinely won't be able to breathe.\nI trusted you... I loved you...\nAnd now I know he's lied to me more than anyone ever has. Worse than that, I have no one to lean on with this heartbreak. He was it, and now he's gone too.\nHas he been playing some kind of mindgame with me this entire time? Did he ever want anything real with me? Was our friendship even real?\nThe elevator doors are finally wrenched open and I can see now that we're between floors, only a three foot opening available for us to squeeze out.\nAt the opening stands Tomoyo, her face a mask of horror and confusion as she sees the black ink covering us and our surroundings. Behind her stands a handful of other models and stagehands, as well as Jared looking just as horrified and disturbed.\n"Aiko," Taishiro says again with more desperation, taking a step toward me, hand outstretched.\n"Fat..." I begin and I have to catch myself before a sob comes out, pausing until I think I might be able to speak again, "I... I have to go."\nAnd I turn away, reaching for Tomoyo and the others to pull me out.\nI'm running away. I know I'm running. But I can't face this right now. I have to go back to work. I don't have time to deal with this. I hope I'll never have time to deal with this.\nWhen my feet hit the floor, I don't wait to push through the crowd, looking to make my way down to the lobby level to find a bathroom and clean myself off.\n"Aiko!" Fat shouts after me, his voice a boom over the small din of onlookers whispering, "Don't! It's not safe! Just please wait!"\nI can't! I can't! I don't care! Go away!\nMy feet move faster, trying to get as far from this horrible scene as I possibly can.\nThen, more screams begin to reach my ears, getting louder and more numerous. What are they screaming for? The monster is gone. Some are saying something. I can't make it out. What-\n"Aiko!" Tomoyo yells almost directly into my ear, "Get away from the edge! There are more!"\nAs she says this, another beast comes hurtling toward me, arms outstretched like it's going to reach in and grab me.\nI freeze, time seeming to almost stand still for me as I watch it descend. I can see more of them flying around the central atrium of the lobby.\nI should run. I should move but I can't. It's coming! It's going to take me! It's going to kill me!\nFat-kun... Where is he? Why did I run away? Will he even protect me again?\n"Aiko! For fuck's sake, move your ass!" Tomoyo shrieks, pushing at me hard so I stumble. But the pressure's gotten me to move forward and I can run now.\nI run a little further until Tomoyo grips my wrist and pulls me into a closed off stairway, slamming the door behind us.\n"Are those the things? That's what grabbed you before?" She asks frantically, her eyes wild.\n"I- I think so? But they're bigger. A lot bigger."\nShe opens her mouth but the stairway door bursts open and Jared throws himself inside, shutting it firmly again behind him.\nTomoyo sighs in relief, "Are you okay?"\nHe nods, "It's a madhouse out there. Heroes are on their way, I think, but those things are grabbing people and just flying away."\nHe looks terrified when he meets my eyes and my former suspicion toward him begins to shrink. He's so normal. He's hiding here like the rest of us. How can someone like this be hurting so many girls?\n"Was that man in the elevator... Was he Fat Gum?" Tomoyo asks me with concern.\n"He is... He's both of them..."\n"Both of them who?" she sounds even more confused than before. But that only makes sense. She never knew about Taishiro. She never knew I actually cared for what I believed was two men. But I can't bring myself to explain it to her now. It's too much of a mess for me to even want to try.\nFat is still out there, I realize. I left him. Where is he? Is he okay? As much as I'm devastated at finding out what I have, I'm now twice as terrified for him. He was weak after destroying that monster. Is he... always that weak when he's not fat?\n"Fat's still out there!" I speak up, "He's hurt and he's weak from fighting! I have to find him! I shouldn't have left!"\n"No, Aiko, those things want you most of all. You've been directly attacked twice now," Tomoyo stops me as I head to go back out the door, "He's a hero, he'll be okay. More heroes are coming. You need to stay here and stay safe."\nI halt in my tracks, realizing she's right. What good am I to him if I go out there and just put myself in harm's way again? I can't help him. I'm not a hero.\nInstead Tomoyo turns to head down the many cases of stairs stretching out below us.\n"Let's get to the ground floor this way," she instructs, already taking a few steps down, "Those things are too big to get in here."\nNodding, I move to follow after her, taking off my shoes to keep from slipping and making my travels easier. I'll just have to leave them.\nI'm so overwhelmed and trying to process everything. I haven't realized Jared's gone quiet until I smell something. Something I shouldn't be smelling right now. What is that jarring smell?\n"No," he says, his voice cool in a way I've never heard before, "I don't think so, Tomoyo. She's mine."\n"What?" Tomoyo asks, her face questioning, probably thinking she didn't hear him right.\n"She's. Mine." he says again, slower this time, and before I can whirl on him, his hand is around my throat, dragging me to his chest.\nMy hands are already on his, pulling and clawing at him to no avail.\n"What do you think you're doing?" Tomoyo snaps, her expression outraged,\nHis scent...\nHis scent... It's disgusting! I hate it. I have to get away from it!\nI fight even harder, kicking at him but it's doing nothing! I can't do anything! I'm so fucking useless!\n"I'm taking her. I was meant to have her," he murmurs, his voice still so calm and deadly.\nHow is he so strong? I'm fighting him with everything that I am and I can't get away!\nJared drags me back toward the door, away from the stairs and Tomoyo.\n"Get your hands off of her!" Tomoyo shouts at him, her voice cracking, as she starts rushing back up the stairs, "I'll fucking kill you if you touch her!"\nTomoyo... All this time I thought we were growing apart but she's coming for me. She does care about me.\n"Don't go back out there! Those things are out there! Do you want to get both of you killed?!" She shrieks as he pulls the door open wide right into a waiting mass of an inky black monster.\nI scream and somehow find the energy to fight all the harder, pulling and tearing at the hand holding onto me.\nWe're gonna be taken! We're gonna be killed!\nBut Jared seems... unconcerned now. He's calm as he backs his way into the waiting arms of the beast, its sickening, rasping breaths invading my ears.\nFinally, I hit hard enough, I'm able to break his hold and he curses. I lurch forward and dash toward the staircase again, stretching my arm out to reach for her as she bolts for me.\nThe thing grabs hold of me, wrapping a disgusting shiny, black hand around my torso and lifting me up and away from the safety of her arms.\nMy mind goes blank.\nMy terror is so great, I devolve only into a wild animal that can scratch and struggle and scream. Even my wings flap desperately to try and free me.\nGet it off! Get it off! Get it off!\nIt's all I can think. It's all I know to feel. It's my only goal in life any longer.\n"AIKO!" I hear Fat's bellow near only a few scant yards away.\nHe's still covered in monster gore and he's still in his weakened form but he's racing toward us now, looking like he's regained some energy.\n"Go," Jared says simply to the beast as it takes him in its other hand.\nHe controls them! He is a fucking monster!\n"Fat!" I cry out, stretching my arm out to him, "Help me! PLEASE!" My chin wobbles as I watch him approach, knowing already that he's too far to reach me in time.\nI can see the realization in his eyes too as his pupils shrink to pinpricks. But he doesn't stop running.\nI put my last ounce of strength into kicking at the monster and pulling out of its grip, stretching as far, further even than my tendons and joints will comfortably allow.\n"Fat-kun, please..." I whimper, tears escaping my lashes to plummet hundreds of feet to the lobby below.\n"Don't-" is all I hear him start to say, his eyes glassy with anguish before I'm rocketing upward through the broken glass of the ceiling, screaming the whole way until my voice breaks.\nEven after sound can no longer escape my throat, I'm still looking down toward the hotel far below me, silently wailing Fat's name into the wind.\n

Chapter 15:\n"Fat-kun," Aiko's voice pulls my attention away from the food I've been enjoying since getting back from the buffet, "I wanted to introduce you to one of the other girls at my agency. Manami, this is Fat Gum."\nA sweet-looking girl with light brown hair bounces next to her, her blue eyes lit with excitement.\n"Hi, Fat Gum-san. It's so great to meet you! I went to your old junior high!"\n"Oh?" I say excitedly, "You did?"\nIt's always great to meet underclassmen and bond over our more youthful years.\nShe nods, going on about the school and some of the teachers and how they talked about me.\nMy eyes unintentionally wander to Aiko, like they often do, as she sets a glass of wine in front of me.\nGod but does she look gorgeous tonight. When she walked into my room in that little cocktail dress, I nearly had a heart attack. And the way she undressed me to get my costume off... it was like she was... shy.\nI've never wanted to kiss her more than in that moment, her cheeks so pink and her looking at me like I usually expect her to when I'm thinner.\nThat couldn't be right though, could it? I just want to believe she's looking at me like that so that's what I'm letting myself see.\nAiko waves me on to keep conversing with her friend as she sits on the opposite side of the table.\nI obey and turn back to Manami, continuing our conversation.\nIt's actually pretty enjoyable discussing my old junior high with her. She tells me what she knows about all of our old teachers and how some of the clubs I used to be in were doing when she was there.\nThen we move on to talking about the high schools we went to. Obviously, she didn't go to a hero school and she's just as interested in hearing about what it was like as Aiko was.\nWhen I crack a joke, as I usually tend to do in conversation, we both laugh. Manami's cracking up so hard, she's almost doubled over, having to put a hand on my shoulder to stay upright.\nWhen she finally calms and we can continue the conversation, I notice she doesn't remove her hand from my shoulder, even when it's clear she doesn't need to hold onto it for balance any longer.\nThe way she's smiling at me...\n"I'd like to go dance," Aiko says, standing abruptly.\nDoes she seem agitated? Her voice sounds hard and cold.\nShe barely even looks at me when she asks, "You'll be okay here without me for a little while?"\n"Yeah, that's fine," I tell her, not wanting to ask her to stay if she's upset about something. I'll have to ask her about it later, when she's less likely to clam up.\nSo she goes, moving her way into the bodies on the dance floor. I can still just barely see her so I'm not worried that she's going without me. I can't be glued to her side all the time. I get the impression she wouldn't want me to go with her anyway.\n"Right, so like I was saying..." Manami goes on without missing a beat, her hand still on my shoulder, that smile still on her face.\nShe really is a joy to talk to. She's very personable and open. She has a different aura about her than Aiko but still holds herself with the same grace and poise. It's clear they're both in the same profession.\n"So... Fat Gum-san, I was wondering..." Manami finally pulls her hand away to poke her fingers together shyly. The first shy thing I've seen her do so far. "Are you seeing anyone right now?"\nI blink at her, thrown off a bit by the sudden conversation change.\n"Ah, well no, I suppose not," I answer honestly.\nHer smile returns and she looks at me with hope in her eyes.\nOh... no...\n"Well then, would you be interested in having dinner with me some time this week? I'd love to get to know you better." A blush spreads across her cheeks and she keeps looking away and back toward me awkwardly.\nI can't say I didn't see her proposition coming but it's still surprising to me. She's a sweet girl. Kind and genuinely interested in what I have to say. Months ago, I probably would've said yes but now...\n"I... There's someone..." now my own face is getting warm. It's hard to admit out loud that I have feelings for someone I'd never have a chance with. It sounds stupid.\n"You're in love with Aiko-chan?" Manami casts her gaze down to the floor, disappointed, "I thought that might be the case with how you looked at her but I- I still wanted to try."\n"I'm sorry," I say, truly wishing I didn't have to hurt her feelings.\n"I understand. She's a little mysterious and isn't afraid to speak her mind. But she's a hard catch," she warns, "I don't think I've ever heard of her having a significant other. I don't think her manager would allow it anyway."\nIsn't that the truth...\n"Well, I hope she knows how good of a person you are. I hope you catch her. If anyone can turn her head, it should be you, Toyomitsu-san."\nMy eyes widen slightly. I figured she might know my name but she didn't say it in front of Aiko or anyone who might hear. Only when we were relatively alone. She must understand the importance of keeping my identity a secret, even from Aiko for now.\n"Thank you," I tell her sincerely.\nShe just smiles kindly back at me, then turns and walks away without another word.\nI watch her go for another second, wondering if I've made the right choice. What if Aiko never loves me in return? What if all she ever sees me as is a close friend that she can lean on? Will that be good enough for me forever?\nBut as I stand and move toward the dance floor, my eyes instinctively searching for her and finding that rich violet head of hair bobbing around, I know I couldn't have said yes to anyone else.\nShe's smiling and dancing like the music is possessing her. I think she's even singing? I can't hear her but knowing her voice, it must be beautiful, even to this cheesy song.\nWhen she looks up, her eyes catch on mine and she stops for just a second, looking startled and I run a hand through my hair, feeling awkward at having been caught.\nBut she doesn't look away or roll her eyes. She smiles wider, holding my gaze and continuing her song and dance.\nI find I can't look away either. She's mesmerizing.\nThe way she moves and that thing she's doing with her tail. The flirtatious smile....\nGod, I want it all to be for me. It feels like it is. It feels like we're the only two people in the whole world right now and I want nothing more than to go to her and pull her close and tell her everything. Everything.\nThen the song is through and she moves her way toward me, her smile still lighting up her face.\n"You don't have to stop," I say, "You can keep having fun."\nI'd love if she kept dancing, but I can't deny I'd love it more if she wanted to stay next to me again as well.\n"I'm fine," she replies, her hand going to my arm, squeezing my heart in a way Manami's touch didn't even come close to, "Let's get out of here. I can only stand so much of this and I did what I came here to do."\n"Where do you wanna go?" I ask willingly.\nShe shrugs, "I don't know. Let's go to a bar or something. The night is still young!"\n"You want to go to a bar where we have to pay for drinks as opposed to the one right there," I motion toward the bar at the back, "where we'd get them for free?"\n"Yes," she says with a pout to her lips, "That's how much I hate it here."\nLaughing, I put my hand on her head. She always gets a cute expression on her face when I do that. Just another thing I love about her. I'll just pile that on the growing mountain of other things I've noticed about her.\n"Whatever you want, Ai-chan."\nShe extends her arms and wings in a stretch which is kind of odd for her but she has been acting a little weird today. Maybe I should ask her about that too later.\n"Let's go then!" She pulls my hand from her head and holds onto it, pulling on me.\nI follow, letting her lead the way and enjoying the excitement in my heart at her hand in mine.\n--\nI'm holding my phone against my knee as Aiko and I sit up against the headboard of her hotel bed, watching silly cat videos.\nWe initially started out watching videos of Bento making a fool of himself, but I ran out of those and instead of Aiko wanting to call it a night, she asked if we could find something else to watch.\nSo here we are, her shoulder against mine, watching compilations of cats doing silly things and laughing together.\nThe way she acts when she's drunk is the most adorable I've ever seen her. I would've expected her to be snippy or maybe even overly flirtatious with everyone.\nInstead, she's shy and silly and more open than she usually is. I swear I even saw her wings moving when I smiled at her a few moments ago.\nThe way she's been talking to me, the way she's been acting tonight, I don't want to get my hopes up but something feels different.\nCould she really, truly, possibly have feelings of more than just friendship for me? The real me? And if that were true, what does that mean for me?\nI already know what it means... If she really does want me then I've been an idiot this whole time, believing she'd only be willing to sleep with my thinner, weaker form. It means I'd have to tell her the truth about me and take the risk that she won't hate me for my poor decisions.\nBut it's better to do that than to let her believe, even for an instant, that she's stuck choosing between two people.\nI feel something fall against my shoulder and look to my right to see Aiko's head gingerly resting there.\n"You tired?" I ask her in a soft voice, not wanting to wake her if she's already asleep.\n"No," she sighs, clearly lying. She sounds like she's barely clinging to consciousness.\n"Okay," I say, unwilling to call her on it and break this fragile connection between us right now. If she falls asleep, I'll move away then.\nA few videos later, I can feel my eyelids, starting to droop as well.\nAiko's head is fully relaxed against my shoulder now and one of her hands is clutching my jacket like a life raft.\nI try to slide to the side of the bed, pulling my shirt free of her grip.\nBut when I lift my arm, she just snuggles in closer underneath it, wrapping her arm around my torso as far as she can like I'm some kind of huge pillow. She's so warm and soft and she seems so small cuddled up against me.\n"Fat-kun," she whispers and I can't tell if she's fully asleep or not, "Don't leave me."\nMy heart feels like it's being pierced.\nFat-kun... She wants Fat-kun to stay. Not Taishiro or some celebrity crush she might have. She wants me.\n"Okay," is all I can say to that. I can't tell her no. I can't pull away when all I want is to put my arms around her too.\nWhen I relax my body again, turning on my side and sliding down to lay my head on a pillow, Aiko adjusts with me, never letting me go.\nI allow myself the small luxury of putting my hand at her waist and pulling her closer. She just sighs, burying her face in my chest.\n"Aiko," I whisper into her hair. She doesn't respond, truly asleep now, her soft breathing rustling my shirt. "I love you, Aiko."\n"Mmmm," she groans into my chest and snuggles her head closer.\nI really really do.\n--\n"Don't hurt her. Please," I beg, but before I can even finish the sentence, they're shooting up into the air, Aiko's scream getting more desperate and thinner until it finally cuts off abruptly.\nShe's gone. She's gone. She's GONE.\nI'll kill him. I'll kill him if he even touches her. I'll-\nNo. I can't think like that. I'm a hero. I'm not an executioner. Even if just the sound of her screams still ringing in my ears makes me want to snap his neck already, I can't do that. That's not me.\n"Fat Gum, I presume?" That sharp, grating voice of Aiko's manager jabs at me and I turn to her.\n"Where did he take her?" I demand desperately, stepping closer.\nTomoyo's eyes widen for a fraction of a second, clearly shocked at my aggressiveness. Then her eyebrows come down into a sharp V, "Am I supposed to know? He just took her right from under my nose! Some hero you are! Why were you even here if you couldn't do the only job you were here to do?!"\nShe's right... I failed at my only job. I let Aiko go when she was upset and now...\n"He's got to be staying somewhere. He's got to have some place.to hide her. You've known him for years. Isn't there anything?"\nI can see Tomoyo's jaw working. She has to know I'm one of the only people who can save her right now and I won't stop until I do. The look in her eyes is almost as fearful as mine.\n"You better fucking save her. You better DO YOUR JOB!" she snaps at me. "He's supposed to be staying here for the week but usually when he comes to do shoots, he rents out a penthouse suite at the Imperial Hotel. He can't be stupid enough to have gone there, though. Especially since I know about it."\n"Thank you. That's good enough," I say, turning away and pulling out my phone to call the hotel.\n"I hope you kill him. I hope he suffers," she says under her breath and I turn back to her. Her face is contorted into a look of despair.\nI know how she feels. I'm having a hard time pulling back that emotion as well.\n"I can't do that," I say, "But I will save her. I'll get her back."\n"If he's hurt her, you will," she replies. A statement, no doubt.\nShe's probably right...\n--\nThere's no way. No way he's actually stupid enough to be staying here.\nThe moment the management confirmed my hero status, they were happy to tell me Jared was renting the penthouse suite of the Imperial Hotel.\nThis is just a red herring, though. It has to be.\nTomoyo assured me she'd be sending heroes just after me as soon as they showed up. I don't know what's taking them but I have no time to wait for them when he could be doing anything...\nStop! I can't get ahead of myself like that! She's safe. She's strong. She's brave. She'll handle him.\nI ate enough to regain some energy before I left. It was hard to force myself to do that. I can't believe I'm even saying that... It was hard to force myself to eat.\nBut I had to give myself a fighting chance at saving her. I can't do that if I'm exhausted.\nI've been making my way up in the elevator for the past minute or so and now the bell chimes, indicating I've reached the penthouse level. It opens up to a wide room with a very American open layout to it.\nIt's quiet, though. She's not here. She can't be. She'd be making as much noise as she could so long as she's conscious.\n"You really thought I was that dumb," a cold, hard voice says at my left and before I can turn my head, I'm knocked to the floor by another one of those gigantic inky monsters. Its slimy hand, holding me down, "Or Tomoyo does, actually. She obviously sent you."\nHe underestimated me as well to think that this thing could actually overpower me enough to keep me pinned. But I'll let him keep thinking it. If I let him talk, he might tell me where she is or take me to her himself if I'm lucky.\n"She's not here. I'm sure you've guessed that much but I hoped you'd come."\nHis face is manic, enraged but also pleased with himself. He hates me. But he thinks he's won against me.\nThe pressure of the hand at my back gets stronger and I have to start exerting some amount of strength against it or it's going to break my back. I push myself up, gritting my teeth at the effort and look back to find that there's more than one of those things bearing down on me now.\n"I know you're strong, Fat Gum. I know a lot about you. I've been doing my research ever since you decided to show up escorting her everywhere. I wasn't ready a month ago. I was too impatient. Tried to take her then. But now..."\nThe pressure gets even stronger and I realize I'm losing the battle. I knew this could be a trap but I was too hasty. I couldn't wait. I had to save her...\n"She was meant to be mine!" Jared shrieks at me. He's half insane. Is he.. jealous? Of me? "She is not yours! I've been the one watching, waiting. You don't just get to come in and take her from me!"\nThe pressure at my back relents only to have my entire body feel like it's being crushed in the grip of these things as they wrap their long, disgusting fingers around me and lift me to an upright position. No wonder Aiko fears them so much.\n"I didn't... take her," I wheeze out, barely able to breathe.\n"You did!" Their grip tightens with his outburst, "You took her and more! And now she won't even look at anyone else!"\nMy vision blurs around the edges and I think I'm going to faint but their grip loosens again when he realizes what's happening.\n"Nonono, I need you awake. You're going to learn not to touch other people's property. And she's going to learn to obey!"\nFear makes my stomach roil but my hope and resolve grow. She's okay. She's unhurt. For now.\n"She's not gonna obey you like a dog," I tell him, shaking my head.\nHe gets this eerie smirk on his face that makes my blood run cold with dread.\n"She will when I'm done with you."\nDone with me?\nI don't even see the blow that slams across my face, snapping my head to the side and making my jaw ache like it's been cracked. Has it?\n"And when I'm done with you, I'll let you see her. Or rather I'll let her see you. And you can watch her break before I put you out of your misery."\nAiko... What have I done? I should've waited. I should've been patient.\n"Let's go," Jared says, sounding calm and collected once more.\nThe things holding onto me, carry me toward the sliding doors of the uncovered pool area outside, then spread their wings to lift me into the sky.\nMy jaw smarts as badly as it ever has and dread coils itself deeper in my stomach. He's taking me somewhere. Probably not where he's keeping her, though. But his promise to let me see her break strikes the most fear in me.\nStay strong, Aiko. Fight him. I will get to you.\n

Chapter 16:\nThe moment my feet hit solid ground, I'm sprinting, fleeing like I never have before.\nThe thing that flew us here just scoops me up again, practically knocking the air out of me.\nCold, stabbing panic overtakes me and I'm just screaming again, crying out for Fat Gum, Suneater, anyone.\nHELP ME! GET IT OFF! GET IT OFF!\nBut no voice comes from my throat. I might as well be whispering for all the sound I make.\n"Aiko, calm down," Jared's voice comes, sounding all too relaxed.\n"Go fuck yourself," I try to shriek at him with the same results.\nMy throat is sore and dry. Every time I swallow, it feels like sandpaper. Before long it'll start being really painful too, no doubt.\n"Aiko," Jared says again, that disgustingly calm, cold voice turning my stomach as he takes a few steps away from us then turns back to face me, "If you calm down and don't try to run from me, I'll have it let you go, and you won't have to see any of these things anymore."\nA war wages in my mind over this choice that he's given me.\nI don't want to submit to him for even a second. I want to do the opposite of anything he asks me to do. I hate him. He did all of this to me!\nBut I can hardly even think over the pounding in my ears as my terror grips me being in the arms of this disgusting monster. If he just has it hold onto me this whole time, I'll never even have my wits about me enough to figure out a way to get away.\n"Let her go," Jared says when he sees I'm willing to be more docile, a small, warm smile coming to his face.\nI want to smack it off. In fact, that's exactly what I'm going to do.\nI lunge for him, bringing my palm soundly across his cheek.\nIndeed, the smile on his face is gone but I instantly regret my rashness as the monster comes down on me again, knocking me to the ground and snarling in my ear.\nI try to scramble away from it, crawling on my hands and knees across the floor toward him.\n"Enough," Jared says, wiping the muck off of his face left by my dirty hand, "I think she gets it now."\nThe oppressive presence at my back recedes and I look back to find the monster gone.\nI hate this. I hate him. I hate myself.\nI hate that I'm so terrified, I'd rather crawl toward my captor than have to be near that monster for another second. I'd rather listen to him in some capacity than have that thing touch me one more time.\n"Come on, darling," he says, holding his hand out for me to take, "Get up, let's get you cleaned off."\nI stand on my own, still keeping my defiance clear. Maybe I can't assault him but I can sure keep from having to touch him.\nThis man is so highly respected in the fashion community. He's the kind of person budding photographers idolize and want to become. His work has been featured in magazines, billboards, even garnering him awards for some of his portraits. Celebrities request him for bordeaux shoots.\nAnd now this man, who's seen as a rock star of photography, has kidnapped me; stolen me in front of multiple people. He's attacked a hotel, causing thousands of dollars in damage. How can he think he's going to get away with this?\n"Where are the other girls?" I demand, doing my best to ignore the fact that my throat feels like it's on fire, "You said they were taking them."\nJared rolls his eyes, "That was a lie, obviously. I only took you." He moves closer to me, the look in his eye one that says I should be so grateful, "You're the special one."\nSpecial... right... Specially cursed maybe.\nHe's about a foot away from me, looking up at me now. Our height difference is so jarring. I feel like an amazon next to him. I feel like I could step on him and crush him like a bug. It grates me that he's the one controlling me right now.\n"Like I said, let's get you cleaned up. Follow me."\nTaking in my surroundings now, I find we're on or near the top floor of a high-rise. I can't be sure what district of Tokyo we're in but I know it's still in the city. We weren't flying for all too long.\nThe apartment is gigantic, decorated in a modernized victorian fashion. You know, the kind that rich people like to decorate in when they just have too much money to spend and want to start caring about how rare and expensive the velvet on their chaise lounge is.\nI follow him at a distance through the living room adorned with a TV that has to be one of the biggest I've ever seen in my life, then through a kitchen that's almost completely white save for the brass fixtures on the cabinets. He finally leads me down a half wood-panelled hall to a massive bedroom looking like it's adorned for a queen.\nIt's hard to imagine that a place this large is even situated in a high-rise but I'm getting the distinct impression that this was specially made and designed. Jared couldn't possibly have enough money to buy out an entire floor of a luxury high-rise and redesign it, could he? That's multi-billionaire level shit.\nWell, maybe with the money from trafficking he could, I have to remind myself, sending a shiver through my wings.\n"This is your room for now," he says, walking in and throwing his arms wide as though he's showing me a prize I've won, "Unless you want to join me in my-"\n"I'd rather puke," I croak before I can catch myself, hurting my throat again in the process.\nHe doesn't seem put off by it, though.\n"That's okay. It'll take time to adjust. I don't expect you to be accepting of things overnight."\nThere's so much that I want to say. "I'll never accept this!" "I'll never bow to a sick fuck like you!" So much that I want to scream at him but my throat is killing me and I know speaking will only make it worse. I have to settle with giving him my most disgusted glare.\nHe sighs and continues on, "You have your own bathroom and you can clean yourself off in there. Just put your clothes in the wastebasket in there. These drawers are full of new clothes for you. They're your size and altered for your comfort just like you like.\nWhen I slide open a drawer and inspect some of the clothes, I find he's right. They're all my size, they all have slots for my wings and my tail. It's mildly surprising to me that they all look so normal. I don't know why I was expecting only risque outfits and nightgowns. I mean, he already sees me as an object he should own, why wouldn't he dress me like a doll?\nHe says nothing as I pick out new clothes with my barely clean hands I purposefully wiped on whatever decorative cloth he's laid across the dresser. Even my bra is the right size. He's a fucking sicko and a stalker. Then I stand in the doorway to the bathroom he's indicated is mine.\nI wave my hand to tell him to fuck off and slam the door, grateful to find a lock on it. Why wouldn't there be, though? There are no windows in here and even if there were, it's not like I could just jump out of one. Once again, my accursed wings fail me.\nActually, I don't even know where the normal exit to this whole apartment is since we were dropped off on his balcony. How could I have not tried to find it while we were walking through the house? So stupid...\nI don't want to throw my dirty clothes away as I peel the sodden cloth from my skin. They're just leisurewear but they're all I have. The only thing in this new world I've been thrust into that's mine. They're the last thing Fat and Tomoyo saw me in. I don't want to let go of the only familiar thing left in my life.\nSo I rinse them off as best I can and hang them on a towel rack to dry. Then I go about taking a shower, cleaning every crevice of my body and meticulously pulling sections of my hair apart to rinse and shampoo.\nWhen I don't feel like I can stay in the steamed up room any longer, I get out and emerge from the bathroom dressed in the leggings and tunic I picked out earlier. At least I'm clean now and not covered in that monster's filth.\nI'm barely out for a minute and exploring my room before Jared reenters holding a tray with food and a mug filled with a steaming liquid.\n"I figured you might be hungry if you haven't gotten a chance to eat yet today," he says, setting it down on the dresser, "I know you try to eat healthy so I got you a selection to choose from and here's some tea for your throat. I know it's probably hurting."\nHe's right that I didn't get the chance to eat yet today but he's wrong if he thinks I'm hungry now or that I'll eat or drink anything he gives me.\nI'd tell him I'd rather starve but I don't want to keep using my voice if it's not necessary. So I give him an unimpressed glare and turn my nose up at the tray.\n"Suit yourself," he sighs, setting it down on the dresser, then takes in my outfit, "I'm glad the clothes fit. I bought everything in here with you in mind."\nI take another quick survey of the room with this new information. Fucking yikes. He really thinks my taste is over the top royalty-type decor?\nI flick my tail in a dissatisfied manner, still keeping my nose turned up.\n"Aiko..." Jared says with kindness in his voice, "I'm sorry I had to take you the way I did but you don't know how long I've been waiting for you. I did a lot of things I didn't want to do to get a chance to be with you. I've thought about nothing but you and what it would be like to have you here with me for years now." He steps toward me slowly and I turn to watch each step he takes, alarm bells going off in my head to keep him at a distance.\n"What the fuck does 'did a lot of things I didn't want to do' mean?" I want to scream at him. Is he admitting to stealing those other girls away?\n"I'm sorry I scared you, both the last time I tried to take you and this time," he says, his icy blue eyes sincere, "These things... I'm not good with them yet. I never trained my quirk so I'm just guessing at a lot of this stuff."\nHis quirk? These monsters are part of his quirk? Of course. That only makes sense. They're not people. When they die or explode, they just turn into a puddle of black liquid. So how does his quirk involve them?\nI want to ask so many questions but he seems less inclined to expand on this information right now. He seems to take my questioning eyes as some kind of interest, though, and steps just a little closer again, within arm's reach.\nI could attack him. Those things aren't in sight. He's unarmed.\nBut I don't know how easy it is for him to call them. He's incredibly strong on his own. I can't overpower him. The most I could do is maim him. And that's only a possibility.\nJared tenderly reaches a hand out to me, meaning to brush fingers across my cheek.\nHe murmurs something in English. I haven't studied that for years. I'm not sure what he's said but I'm guessing he's called me beautiful or something like it.\nMy stomach plummets, remembering the way Fat reached out to me only maybe hours ago. His fingers were so warm and gentle and I was so in love and so scared he would reject me.\nHe was about to tell me, I realize. He was about to tell me he and Taishiro were the same person. What would I have done in response? What would I have said?\nI step back, out of Jared's reach. He doesn't get to touch me like Fat did. He doesn't get to sully that memory with his presence.\nHis lips press together with displeasure but he says nothing and drops his hand.\n"I have to leave for a while," he says and I perk up at the statement.\nHe's leaving? Already? Why?\n"I have to take care of some things. I don't know when I'll be back but I'll make sure you're taken care of until then. Don't worry, darling."\nTaken care of? By who?\nOh fuck, he doesn't mean those things, does he?\nI want to tell him I can take care of myself. I don't need anyone to cook a meal or make my bed, I can do it all myself. Instead, I only shake my head.\n"Don't worry. They're coming with me," he says, knowing exactly what I'm worked up about, "You'll see what I mean at dinner time. Just get some rest until then. Drink some tea, it'll help."\nRelief washes over me and another thought pops up in my mind. I'll have free reign over the apartment. I can scope out if he has surveillance, possible methods of escape, maybe even find a weapon!\nBut that jolt of excitement is tamped down quickly when Jared walks out of the room, closing the door behind him.\nI hear something on the door click and I know before I even reach for it that he's locked me in here.\nFUCK! I should've expected as much. I don't even know why I hoped for anything else. This room is meant to be my cell. It's well-furnished and comfortable but it's a cell all the same.\nThere are windows but, as with most high-rises, they can't be opened. My phone is long gone, stolen in my initial struggle with Jared no doubt.\nI start looking around the room for something that can be used as a weapon. No lamps or candle sticks. All of the furniture is heavy solid wood I can't break.\nI try to break my mirror for a makeshift weapon but it's not glass. It's a reflective-coated plastic of some kind. Even the mug with my tea doesn't hold enough weight to be effective.\nJared's gone to many lengths to make this place inescapable. He's either been planning this for me for a long time or has been doing this to so many girls, he's perfected his method. Either way, it sickens me to even consider.\nWithout even a TV to entertain myself, I lay on the bed and stare up at the curtains hanging above me and over the four-poster frame.\nI shouldn't have run. I can't get past that awful mistake in my mind. I shouldn't have run!\nBut I was so blinded by my pain at Fat's betrayal that I couldn't even make a rational decision. I just wanted to get away like I always do. I just wanted to hide from my hurt until it didn't bother me anymore. But Fat Gum- Taishiro- I don't know if any amount of running could end the pain he caused that even now threatens to tie me up in knots.\nI fell in love with him. Twice. I trusted him with everything. My secrets, my fears, my safety, my heart. And he lied to me.\nI've never put myself out there the way I did with him. He made it so easy. He was always there with me, through the good and the bad and even the most embarrassing things. He accepted me; or at least I thought he did.\nNow I know that, while he may have accepted me, he didn't trust me. Did he think I'd walk away from him if I knew he was actually fat most of the time?\nAll this time...\nI think back to when we first met. How gentlemanly he was; how unsure until I made him understand how much I wanted him.\nThe excited smile he had on his face when I walked into his office the first time. It wasn't because he was a fan or even being nice, I realize. He wanted to see me as much as I wanted to see him.\n... and I fucked it all up by being a huge judgemental bitch.\nI remember how scared I was of him. How I readied myself to attack him. How I snapped at him.\nHe probably couldn't get that out of his head. He probably thought I'd react to him the same way if I found out they were the same person.\nI don't know how he could've seen how we interacted and actually believed that, though. Didn't he see how much I adored him, even when I didn't know I was in love with him? He's been the light of my life ever since he stepped into it, whether he was Taishiro or Fat Gum.\nTaishiro bending me over a table was Fat Gum. Taishiro cornering me on the train was Fat Gum. Taishiro telling me he wants everything I want was Fat Gum!\nMy teeth drag across my lip as I relive some of those moments now equipped with that new knowledge. And he was weak in that state? So... what is he like when he's his normal size?\nThis time, with less hesitation, I allow myself to harken back to the kiss I shared with him that saved my life. How easily he responded to my advances; his hand massaging my breast when I placed it there; and how he stopped when he knew I was begging for his smaller self. I can only imagine how badly that must've hurt him... and he didn't even let it show. He only worried for me. I should've realized then when I found he smelled and tasted the same but it just seemed so impossible. I hadn't even considered...\nI can't fight the burning deep in my chest as anger boils up inside me. I don't even know who I'm most angry at. Fat for not trusting me, myself for being such a shallow bitch and ruining everything, or Jared for kidnapping me and sticking me here in this shitty room with this ugly furniture, and thinking he's going to win me over!\nMy face scrunches up at the thought. What a fucking narcissictic asshole!\nTail twitching with annoyance, I sit back up, scanning the room with renewed vigor.\nI hop off and check each of the dresser drawers, then the vanity (with another plastic mirror), only finding clothes and makeup respectively. There are side tables next to my bed and check there too but I pause, my brows pulling down in confusion, then shooting up when I realize.\nThere's a journal here.\nThinking it might've been left by other girls, I open it hastily only to find it completely blank save for the first page.\nAiko,\nI've seen you carrying around and often writing in something that looks like this journal. I'm sorry I couldn't let you take your old one but I hope this will do.\nAll my love,\nJared\nMy stomach turns upon reading his send off.\nIt's a planner I carry, you absolute imbecile.\nI roll my eyes, ripping the page out to crumple it into a tiny ball and toss across the room, into the trash can. Then I feel around the drawer again and my fingers alight on a pen which I, once again, pull out hastily, thinking I might've finally found some kind of weapon.\nI don't even know why I'm giving myself hope any longer. The pen is really a fine felt-tipped marker. I could barely stab through tissue paper with this.\nFuck you, Jared, you little shit.\nBut my eyes go back to the journal in front of me.\nI can't do much in here. Not watch TV or check my phone or even read a book.\nI can write, though. I can draw if I were so inclined.\nAn unwilling thought comes to me. What if I never see Fat again? What if something happens? What if I'm trapped here forever or Jared takes me to some other dungeon in America or I just end up pushing too many of his buttons and he just offs me?\nI don't want to leave Fat never knowing the truth. Never knowing my feelings coming directly from me.\nHe deserves to hear it coming from my mouth but writing him a letter will have to do if there's no other way.\nSo I put pen to paper and let my feelings flow out of me.\nDear Fat-kun, Taishiro, and any other name you go by,\nI don't know if you'll ever get this. I don't know if I'll be dead, or insane, or just so out of reach that I'll never see you again if you ever end up reading this. But I have to get this out if any of those things are the case.\nI'm still so fucking mad at you. You made a fool out of me and I'm embarrassed and ashamed.\nBut I also know I fucked up too and no matter how much you hurt me, it doesn't change the fact that you still also built me up and made me a better person. A person I'm proud to be.\nI never realized just how lonely and removed from everyone I was until I met you. You accepted me and consoled me and protected me like no one ever has.\nAnd I hate everything, myself most of all, because it took me so damn long to realize how in love with you I am and, moreso, that I never got the chance to tell you. I will struggle to get away from here every second of every day if only to just get the chance to tell you that.\nI love you and I need you as badly as I need water to drink or air in my lungs. I don't know if I'll ever see you again but if I don't, just know that. Know that, yes, I'm still mad but not mad enough to ever stop loving you or wanting you or fighting for you. Know that you deserve so much better than me but that I still had the lofty dreams of hoping you'd love me back anyway.\nYou are my heart and my soul. You are the one that's keeping me going.\nStay safe. Be happy. And even if you end up loving someone else just please please please don't forget me.\n~ Aiko\nI'm reminded of how painful my throat is as I swallow the massive lump that's formed there and wipe away the tears that have built up in my eyes.\nI don't want Fat to ever find out this way. This note is only for if I can't get back to him. I have to start figuring out a plan to get out of here. I have to get back to him and to Tomoyo, Suneater, Whitney, Red, Steel. So many people now who are worried about me and want me to be safe. I can't keep them waiting.\nTearing this page out of the journal as well, I fold it and stuff it into my bra, the only safe place I can think of right now. I need to always keep it close in case an opportunity presents itself for me to hand it off. I definitely can't let it stay in the journal. I have very little doubt Jared wouldn't read anything I wrote in it.\nIt's become pretty apparent there's not going to be an easy escape from here either. I'm going to have to be patient and bide my time.\nJared seems completely obsessed with me. He's set all this up for me. Even did "things he didn't want to do" to get me here.\nHe wants me to return his feelings more than anything. If I'm more accommodating toward him, he might begin to trust me and give me more freedom.\nI don't want him near me. I don't want him to touch me. But if letting him think I'm coming around to his "charms" means escape I'll do it.\nThen, a disturbing thought scrapes at the back of my mind how I can easily escape and my body goes cold upon even considering it. But I have to.\nI could sleep with him. I could drain him and he'd be passed out cold for a few hours at least. I would likely be able to find a way out then.\nWomen have done worse to get out of situations like this... so why does this idea make me nauseous?\nI shake my head. If nothing else works... as a last resort.... I'll do what I have to do.\n--\nJared doesn't return for the rest of the night and I finally see what he means when he says I'll be "taken care of" at dinner time.\nA little robot carrying a tray of food and more tea makes its way through a panel I hadn't seen previously and stops near my bed.\nIt scurries off the moment I take the tray and I stare down at the food and drink before me. Nothing looks wrong with it. I am hungry. As much as I'd like to think I'd prefer to starve, I struggle to actually keep myself from eating. I have to take care of myself anyway. I need to be strong and healthy for whenever I try to make my escape.\nThe tea also soothes my throat and it's starting to feel less painful after I drain the mug.\nIt really boils my blood that Jared was right about that...\nWhen I'm done, I set the tray down on the dresser, next to the first and go back to the bed. It's barely past dark but I feel so exhausted. Boredom on top of overexertion is making my body demand rest to recover.\nSo I situate myself between the sheets, unsurprised to find the bed immensely comfortable. I would've been surprised if it weren't.\nGrabbing a pillow that's not in use, I pull it close, cuddling it to my chest and remembering with a heartbreaking stab how I slept next to Fat last night and the feeling of his arms around me. What a shitty downgrade this pillow is...\n--\nMy eyes blink awake and I'm greeted with Jared's face only about a foot away from mine, laying on a pillow across from me.\nWas he watching me sleep?\nImmediately, I push myself back, nearly falling from the bed in the process.\n"What the hell do you think you're doing?!"\nJared ignores my outburst and just smiles at me adoringly. How did I ever think this man was a good person? How was I ever charmed by that smile?\n"You looked so peaceful," he croons, "You're so beautiful when you're sleeping."\nMy lip curls in disgust. I don't give a fuck what he thinks is beautiful; especially about me.\nTo think that yesterday, I awoke in Fat's arms, rested my head on his chest, got to feel the softness of his lips against mine. I keep forgetting that I've kissed him countless times before; done more even- far more. Yesterday's kiss didn't feel like something I'd done before, though. It felt fragile and new.\nIt's cruel that I'm reminding myself of that when this is what I'm waking up to now.\nBut I have to calm my hostility. I decided yesterday that I need to let him believe he's winning me over. That means I can't yell at him even if I'm able to, I have to try to stop glaring at him, and I need to show some interest in him even if it's just a miniscule amount for now. If it gets me to freedom, I need to do it.\nI school my features and relax my pose, trying to make it seem like I just realized who is actually in front of me.\n"Oh! I- I'm sorry... You scared me. I was... having a nightmare," I lie.\n"It seems like you're settling in a little better. Are you less upset today?" Jared's smile remains on his face.\n"A little, I guess," I answer, looking away as though I'm feeling shy.\n"And your voice is back. You drank the tea? I've heard a lot of singers use it when they have a sore throat."\nI nod demurely linking my hands in front of me.\n"I'm glad," he seems genuinely ecstatic about it, "I made you some breakfast if you're ready to come out."\nI honestly wish I could sleep longer. I still feel so exhausted and I'm emotionally drained. But now I know he's back, I can't easily relax. And now I'm getting another chance to get out of this room for a while and scope out the apartment. I can't let myself be lazy.\n"Okay," I say, "I could eat."\nI can see Jared's eyes shine with pleasure at me taking up his offer.\n"Great!" he says, bouncing up off the bed like an energetic child, then takes my hand and pulls me toward the now open door. I nearly snatch it back out of surprise and disgust but I'm able to keep my cool.\nHe seems to believe my ruse for now. I thought I'd have to do a lot more schmoozing to get him to believe I'm actually feeling more amenable to this situation but he's so readily accepted my complete change in attitude.\nIs he testing me? Is this some kind of mind game?\nAs he pulls out a chair for me at the dining room table, then waits for me to sit before seating himself, I get the sense that he's being genuine. He's treating me like he's trying to woo me.\nEven though he was reckless in kidnapping me the way he did, I know Jared's not dumb. I've known him for years. He's intelligent and cunning. He thinks things out long before he does them. He's observant and sharp-eyed. He has to be in order to have gotten as far as he has in his profession.\nSo why is he not seeing past this contented smile I've pasted on my face as I take small bites of the egg I've cut up on my plate? How does he not see the falseness in my eyes as I watch him with interest as he tries to make conversation? How does he not hear the lie in my voice when I compliment his accommodations?\nWhen he offers to show me around after we've finished breakfast, I think I'm finally beginning to understand.\nJared's completely delusional. He never points them out but, in every room there's at least one photograph of me he's taken during our professional relationship. He talks about conversations we've had that I can hardly even remember because, to me, they were off-handed small talk.\nHe shows me a room that looks like a photography studio that he says he'd like to do a "private shoot" with me in and a wave of nausea washes over me.\nThe more he talks, the more he reveals just how unhinged he truly is. He's made up some kind of relationship between us in his head. He's imagined that every smile I've given him and every laugh we've shared had some deeper meaning and that we share some secret love.\nIt's truly disturbing and makes it all the more discomforting that I have to play into this delusion so I can get out of this.\nA small part of me mourns the man I once knew and respected greatly. I did enjoy his company. I did love working with him. Nothing he ever said or did gave me even an inkling that he was this unstable.\nThe whole time we walk through this huge house, I keep an eye out for an elevator or a door to stairs. There must be something. But I never see anything that's an obvious exit. If there's an exit, he's hidden it.\nI'm starting to get this sinking feeling that there are no exits, though. The way in and out are those monsters.\nThat's not good.\nAfter walking and talking with him for a while, it's become clear that, while he is smart and organized, he has a blind spot when it comes to me. He believes that I've come to accept him because that's what he wants more than anything. Me behaving with affection toward him brings my actions back in line with what he has already decided is reality. He would have probably been less willing to accept me not being content if I'd woken up and still acted with aggression. He'd probably even believe it if I told him I love him right now.\n"Jared," I say with a mildly interested tone as we sit across from each other once more at the dining room table for lunch.\nHe looks up at me expectantly, excited for me to have begun a conversation. I hope that means he'll be more willing to answer my questions and won't be suspicious.\n"You said something about your quirk yesterday. You hadn't trained it?"\nJared's eyes widen minutely, surprised that I remembered that.\n"Yes," he says shamefully, not even the least bit curious why I want to know. I'm supposed to be as in love with him as he is with me after all. Why wouldn't I want to know more about his quirk? "These monsters you hate, they don't have to be as awful as they are but I... I can't paint at all."\n"Paint?" I ask, my brows lowering in confusion.\n"It's easier to show you," he sighs, getting up and hurrying into another room. He returns barely a minute later with paper and some paint in a jar. He must've already been using it to work on these then.\nSitting back in his seat, he bends over the table in front of us to put a brush to paper.\nWhen he's done, he's made an almost laughable approximation of a man with wings on the page\nLooking at it closely, it would certainly be monstrous if it were real. The arms are too long, the hands too big. Its head is just a black circle. But it also gives me a creeping reminder of the things that have attacked me in the past.\n"Okay but how..."\n"Watch, darling," he says with a secretive smile, picking the paper up from the table and holding it flat in front of his face and blowing on it.\nThen the paint blows away from the page as though it were merely dust and reforms itself in front of us into a far larger version of the figure on the page.\nImmediately, fear takes hold of me and I shrink back from it, pushing away from the table.\n"No, wait! Wait! It's okay! It won't hurt you! It's safe," Jared consoles me but I can't control my visceral reaction.\n"Get it away. Get it out!" I snap a little harshly, my voice breaking. My throat isn't ready for my voice to be raised.\nLooking regretful, Jared speaks to the thing, "Go. Get out."\nIt immediately leaves the room, leaving inky footsteps on the tile floor that one of the little service robots comes to start wiping up.\n"I'm sorry," he says, moving to my side, taking my hand.\n"Why do you make them like that?" I ask with a strained voice.\n"I told you, I'm not good at painting and I've only been really using it a lot recently."\n"You can't use someone else's painting?"\n"No. I've tried. It only works with mine for some reason."\n"So get better! Practice!" I eye him disapprovingly and he actually looks abashed to be scolded by me.\n"I don't have a lot of time between photoshoots and... other things," he says cryptically.\nHe can't possibly think I'd just let that go, can he? While he's acting more submissive than he ever has, I might have a chance to interrogate him.\n"Other things?" I ask, edging my way into another probing question, "Other things like the things you told me yesterday you didn't want to do?"\nJared's face is uncomfortable, possibly even guilty, as he brings a hand up to rub at the back of his neck.\n"I don't know if I can talk about that..."\nHe seems so downtrodden about it. How can that be, though, if he's running this trafficking ring? Can someone only be in it for the money and actually feel bad about the fact that they're selling human beings like livestock?\n"Jared," I say and he looks up at me with those wide blue eyes shining and I decide to take the risk and ask outright, "Is this- Are you using your quirk to kidnap girls?"\nHis eyes widen like he's just seen a ghost.\n"You know about it? Who told you? How many people know?" He doesn't seem angry. It's mostly fear I see in his eyes.\nI can't tell him about the investigation. If he gets the chance to get word out, that'll be it for ever finding the missing girls.\n"I... just noticed girls going missing. I pay attention to what's going on in my community."\nJared puts a hand to his head, looking unnerved, then blows out a long breath.\n"I'm so sorry. I had to. I wanted you so bad. Please don't hate me. I did all of this for you!"\nOf course I fucking hate him, though! If I could somehow ignore the kidnapping and locking me up in an inescapable apartment, just knowing he was selling girls away is enough to make me hate him. And he says he did it for me?!\n"I don't hate you," I assure him with some difficulty.\nHe seems relieved at that and relaxes a bit as he leads me over to the couch.\nI wish I could scream at him for what he's done. I wish that telling him I'm not interested in him and never have been would somehow make it possible to get those girls back but it'll never be that simple. I have to just keep working to get myself out for now so I can at least get back to Fat Gum and tell everyone everything I've learned.\n"I do still think you should work on your painting, though. You have such a good eye for photography. Try to consider that when painting how you want a figure to look. Maybe make them a woman," I pause and consider before offering, "I'll help you if you want. Critique you. Just... no more making creepy monsters right now, okay?"\nJared's eyes light up and he grins from ear to ear. "You'll really help me? You really want to?"\n"I will but you have to agree to what I asked for," I tell him.\nHonestly, it's partly for my own good as much as his. I'm terrified of those huge, nasty beasts he's used. If he starts making ones that aren't so awful, at least I might be able to keep my wits around them.\nHe nods and goes to grab more paper and the paint from off of the table.\n--\nI spend the rest of the day with him, correcting his mistakes in painting. Sometimes the legs are too short or the torso is too wide or he doesn't understand how something should be muscled.\nHe tells me more about his quirk. That these creatures are mindless and only do anything when he orders them to. He'd been so single-minded about wanting them to find me and take me that the times they were saying my name, it was like they had inherited his franticness.\nThey don't seem to last for long- only about a day- and their size and strength is somehow related to how diluted his paint is.\nIt's really a fascinating quirk and I wish that I were learning about it in less stressful circumstances.\nI imagine what it would've been like if we could've just connected as friends and sat like this , laughing and conversing, while we figured it out together. But none of that is possible now. Now I'm a captive. Now I'm only doing any of this to eventually get out.\nAs I lay in bed tonight, locked in my room again, I finally allow my mind to wander back to Fat and wonder where he is right now; what he's doing. I hope he's not tearing himself apart over not saving me. It was all my own fault.\nI can't help but allow myself to hope that, by some miracle, someone might save me. Faking affection for someone who makes me physically ill is mentally draining and I'm afraid I can't do this forever.\nThat wretched thought comes back to me, reminding me of how I might be able to get out of here and I cringe internally.\nIt's less of an option now since I can't even find the exit to this place but with Jared passed out, I can freely search the place without fear of being caught or even just stand out on the balcony and scream for help until someone hears me.\nBut as I said before, it's a last resort.\n--\nI can't believe it's day three of me being here already. I've done nothing to change my situation and the thought of spending the rest of my life cooped up in this place- or even just cooped up at all- is getting to me.\n"I was hoping I could take some pictures of you today," he suggests as we eat lunch.\nI freeze. I've done so many shoots with this man. I've been practically naked around him countless times. But suddenly doing a shoot with him seems intrusive and nerve-wracking.\nSeeing the indecisiveness on my face he amends, "Don't worry, though! I just want to take some casual shots. You can keep wearing what you have on and you can just sit around on the couch or wherever you feel most comfortable. I don't plan on showing them to anyone or anything, it's just a personal thing."\nWhy is that hardly comforting?\n"I-I guess," I say hesitantly. The thought of what his intentions are with my pictures is something I don't think I want to consider too far.\nSo he allows me to fix my hair and do my makeup and I come back out to seat myself in an armchair as he begins working.\nI hear the shutter begin clicking and it actually makes it easier for me to fall into this role. I'm used to performing in front of a camera. Working with a photographer, turning toward my light, keeping my pose sexy yet classy all comes so easy, it's second nature.\nIt feels like old times with him giving me instruction and me knowing exactly what it is he's asking for.\nThat is until he says, "You are so devastatingly beautiful, darling."\nSomething in those words strikes me the wrong way and my whole facade comes crashing down.\n"Thanks," I reply as warmly as I can, giving him a small smile and hoping we can just continue.\n"These were the moments I knew," he continues on and I feel like screaming. How much of this am I going to have to endure? "I knew we were meant to be together. How well you listen to instruction and know exactly what to do to make me happy. Every time you get in front of my camera, I feel like we connect on a spiritual level. Don't you feel it too?"\nNo. No, I don't fucking feel it. He was my photographer and I'm a trained professional model. Nothing more, nothing less. I worked my ass off to be as good as I am and he took my skill as some kind of sign that we were destined to be together? I've never been more insulted in my life!\nSuddenly he's all too close to me.\nHe'd been kneeling only a few feet away when he started talking but now he's moved closer. What is he up to?\n"You do, don't you?" he asks, moving toward me still, reaching his hand out toward me again.\nIt's the first time he's tried something like this since I stepped away from him that first day. I feel like a deer in the headlights. I can't move away this time. I have nowhere to go. I can only stare at him as his fingers meet my cheek.\nI'm not ready yet! I'm not ready! I can't! Please just leave me alone!\nI can't scream anything I want to at him. Instead, I just turn my face away from his touch.\n"I don't know."\nJared is quiet for a moment but I don't look at him until he drops his hand finally and pushes himself up to stand.\n"We're done," he says, his voice not unkind, "Thank you for indulging me."\n"It was no problem," I reply courteously.\nHe moves away from me and I breathe a sigh of relief, the tension I've been holding in my muscles finally releasing.\nBefore he disappears into the hall, he turns back to me. "Could you head back to your room for a little bit? I've got somewhere to go."\n"But- But I...." I don't want to be trapped in there for hours on end again.\n"I won't be gone for long. A couple hours at most."\nHis expression is open and honest. At the very least, he intends what he says.\n"You promise?"\n"Will you miss me?" he asks with a smirk.\nUgh. Gross.\n"Maybe," I say, trying to sound flirtatious.\nHe grins. "Then yes, I promise, darling."\nI feel like I'm being booted in the stomach every time he calls me that. I used to think nothing of it at shoots but now I wonder if he thinks it's some kind of special thing between us.\n"Okay," I respond, turning to head back to my room and closing the door to wait for the telltale click of me being locked in.\nSitting on my bed, I wonder if I've just seriously fucked up. Was that turning of my head enough to make him realize I'm faking everything after all? He did seem a little upset for a second there.\nWhy did I have to turn away from him? I have to be convincing him that I'm actually interested in him! Turning away is not that. He wasn't even hurting me or trying anything.\nI need to do better if I want out of here. Maybe I should do something to make up for it? What can I do while I'm trapped in here, though? It's not like I can cook something.\nMy eyes land on the large dresser in front of me. I had thought before that it was so odd he had gotten me so many normal clothes. But he had to have supplied me with nicer things too, right?\nI go to the drawers and open them one by one, searching, until I happen upon a drawer with few dresses in it.\nThey're beautiful if I'm going to be honest. He's an amazing photographer with quality taste (in clothing at least, I'll ignore the interior design), of course he'd pick out beautiful clothing for me.\nI pick up a deep red dress that feels like silk chiffon. It doesn't look too short or anything. I could put this on and try to lead him to believe I'm putting more effort in for him. Maybe he'd forget about my actions earlier then.\n--\nI hear Jared return not quite two hours later as the sun is setting, just like he promised. It sounds like one of those things is walking around the house.\nHe usually doesn't let them in here. They make a mess of paint on the floor, not to mention he does put forth effort not to scare me. So what is one doing tromping down the hall?\nI hear his voice but I can't make out what he's saying. He's speaking very low to the monster.\nBut whatever it is he wanted with it is finished and it makes its way back out of the house via the balcony.\nMy suspension is growing and growing that I'm right about that being the only exit. It's large enough to be almost as big as a helipad. Making that the only way in and out would make for a very easy way to keep people trapped here.\nMy door finally opens a few minutes after I hear the monster leave and Jared takes one look at me and halts.\nThis red dress has a dipping neckline and a low back. It fits loosely on me, only hinting at my curves, and the skirt comes to just above my knee. A length I'm comfortable with.\n"I'm home," he says, looking me up and down, an expression of wonder on his face.\n"Welcome back," I respond in turn, feigning flattery that he's openly staring at me.\n"Did you... dress up for me? You wanna have dinner? I can cook something real quick."\nI nod and he grins with pure joy. Geez, this guy is so easy to fool.\nJared leads me into the gigantic TV room, though, instead of the dining room, taking me to the couch.\n"Here," he says, handing me the remote, "Let's eat in here tonight. We can watch a movie."\nI blink at him. This is the first time he's allowed me any kind of access to technology. I doubt this thing would enable me to call for help but I'm so worn down from boredom by now I'm happy enough to be able to have some entertainment.\n"Wait," I stop him, as he turns to walk away, my hand pulling at his shirt. He turns back readily with a look of concern, seating himself on the sectional a couple feet from me.\n"What is it? Is something wrong?"\nI have to steel myself just to touch his arm but I manage, plastering an endearing expression on my face. My hands are trembling with how nervous I feel but it's not for the reasons he thinks.\n"Th-thank you, Jared, for doing all of this for me. Thank you for making me feel at home."\nI have to keep this grateful expression on my face. I have to push through. I have to let him believe I'm fawning over him.\nJared's eyes go to my hands laying delicately on his arm, then up to meet my own eyes.\nThe hunger I see in them shakes me to my core and it takes every last ounce of my willpower not to pull away and run.\nThat option becomes impossible, though, as he lays a hand on my neck and my whole body freezes. Am I still smiling? Am I at least looking at him with some amount of warmth? I don't even know anymore. I just hope that this terror I feel deep in my chest isn't showing on my face.\n"Aiko," he sighs, his voice deep with desire and his scent reaches my nose, a pungent citrusy smell like the burning of orange peels. I've never smelled a scent that was painful but this shoves itself up my nose and feels like a knife in my olfactory nerve. "Thank you for being understanding and forgiving. You're so..." He says something again in English, that word for beautiful.\nHis hand travels down my neck to my collarbone, slowly making its way across my chest.\nMy heart feels like it's pounding out of my ribcage. Not from excitement but from gut-wrenching fear.\nHis hand feels like a giant fat spider crawling across my chest and all I want to do is fling it away from me.\nBe strong! Push through! You'll get away! Just do this one thing!\nHis soft, overly warm hand switches direction and moves back so sickeningly slow across my chest, to resume its position on my neck. Then he starts pulling me toward him.\nThis is happening now, whether I planned it or not. I thought I might have to do this but I didn't think he would try it now.\nI swallow down the bile building up in my throat, allowing him to inch me closer to his face. His breath smells minty but the citrus scent overwhelms it easily.\nCloser... Closer...\nHis blue eyes are closing and his breaths are picking up.\nYou can do this! You can knock him out!\nI'm only a couple inches from him now and I think I might be having a heart attack. There's a buzzing in my ears and I can't seem to catch my breath. My chest hurts. My heart is breaking.\nFat...\nMy mind throws me back to the moment I'd just woken up in his arms. The way his golden eyes warmed me from the inside out. How I longed to feel his lips on mine. His hand tightening ever so slightly at my waist.\nWill he hate me for sleeping with someone else to get out of this? Will I hate myself? Can I ever look him in the eye again?\n"You're worth everything..." his resigned voice rings in my ears, "Aiko, you're-"\nPanic overtakes me.\nI push Jared away so hard, he falls back against the pillows.\n"I can't," I breath out, pushing myself off the couch., "I'm sorry I-"\nA firm hand locks around my wrist.\n"Why not?" Jared's devastated voice asks, breaking as he asks, "You've slept with hundreds of people!"\n"Jared... I'm sorry... I just... "\n"What is it about me?!" he shrieks, startling me, "Why wouldn't you even look at me? Ever?!"\n"Jared I've never slept with a professional acquaintance. I can't do that-"\n"You weren't even interested in America, were you?" His eyes are tearing up. He's snapping.\nIs this the real Jared? Desperate, selfish, insane?\n"No, I was. I would've gone before but-"\n"But him!" he snaps, cutting me off again, "You met that fat, disgusting piece of-"\n"Shut the fuck up," I snarl, pulling my hand from his grip, "Don't you dare even-"\n"Don't you!" he shouts back at me, grabbing me again before I can dodge him.\nI scream as he pulls me back down onto the couch, pushing me back against the cushions.\n"Get off!" I shriek, trying to push him away, but I'm not as strong as he is. He only holds me tighter.\n"I love you so much, Aiko. Why can't you see?!" he sobs into my ear, pressing his weight against me.\n"I do see!" I answer, my voice pinched with desperation, "I just don't want you!"\n"You do!" he cries, "You do! You just don't know it yet!"\n"You're fucking CRAZY!" I shriek as I'm able to get my leg up to kick him off of me.\nI turn to run but he just grabs for me again and I spin on him immediately, clawing him across the face.\nEverything turns quiet as we both freeze in our tracks. Bright red lines appear at Jared's temple, all the way down to his nose, a droplet of blood beginning to ooze from a deeper part of the scratch.\nI stare dumbly at him. Oh god... What have I done? What will he do to me now?\nHis face is stunned too and I think he's trying to process what's just happened. He's not going to be able to explain away fingernail scratches across his face. He could hardly even cover it up.\n"You..." he says darkly, pushing himself up off the couch and I back away from him, unsure just how bad this outburst from him might be, unsure if his monsters are about to come down on me.\n"Jared..." I say feebly, "I'm sorry. I was scared. I didn't-"\nHe lunges for me and I'm too slow to dodge as he buries his fingers in my hair, taking a large chunk of it in his fist.\nCrying out in pain, I bend over to accommodate his stature as he begins pulling me along down the hall.\nWhere are we going? What's going to happen to me now?\n"You wanted to know what I was doing? Where I went?" Jared asks rhetorically, dark amusement in his voice.\nI'm still struggling as best I can, tears pricking at my eyes at the pain of him leading me by my hair.\nHe halts at the door to his study. He's shown it to me before in passing and I took no interest then.\nA feel of dread clenches my stomach as I stare at the large wooden door.\nI don't want to see what's in there. I don't want to go in there.\n"I was getting a present for you," Jared says and I can practically see the self-satisfied smirk on his lips.\nI struggle all the more, pulling and scratching at his hand.\n"Let go!" I cry out, "Don't! I'm sorry! Just don't!"\nBut his hand is already on the door knob, twisting it and pushing the door open.\nMy eyes dart wildly around the room but nothing seems out of place. Nothing all that scary is in here. No cages or torture devices. No monsters or-\nMy eyes finally land on a figure lying in a heap on the floor. It's a... person I think.\nJared pulls me by my hair again and I whimper in pain as he flings me forward onto the floor, near the figure and slams the door shut behind him.\nI'm about to turn and throw myself at him, giving up on all appearance of subjugation, but the person on the floor catches my eye.\nSomething about them...\nMy wings droop and my heart stops. All the fight goes out of me at once.\n"Fat...kun?"\nI thought I knew fear. I thought I knew horror. That monster clutching my arm, clawing at me, my voice breaking as I screamed, Jared pressing down on me. None of those things compare to the darkness that consumes me looking upon his limp form bleeding onto the rug.\n"Is he-?"\n"No." Jared says with a little sadistic smirk as he crosses to the other side of the room toward a tray of whiskey he begins pouring, "Not yet at least."\nI only spare him a small glance to convey my hatred then focus back on Taishiro, crawling cautiously toward him. He's still muscular, unprotected by his usual layer of fat that I only just learned is what keeps him mostly invincible. There's no part of him I can see that isn't battered in some way. Bruises and scratches and burns cover his weakened body. I'm afraid to even touch him. What if I hurt him?\n"What did you do to him?" I hiss hatefully at Jared.\nJared's brows raise in faux surprise. "What do you mean?"\n"He wasn't like this the last time I saw him! Even after fighting your monster!"\nHis mouth curves into a deeper smirk, "Well... he fought pretty hard for you. You should be thankful. You wouldn't have been allowed to see him at all if I hadn't made sure he couldn't do anything."\nMy eyes lose their focus as I come to accept how much damage he's really sustained. They shift from place to place on his body but I can hardly see anything through the haze of rage and guilt.\nHe... he tried to follow me when he was weak?\n"Why..." I whisper to him, tears blurring my vision as I reach a shaky hand toward him. I can see the rattling breaths he's taking. Pained breaths. Even just breathing hurts him.\nHe's... dying.\nI violently push that thought away immediately. He's not. He won't.\n"He's gonna die pretty soon, I think," Jared says with absolutely no remorse, as though he's just stating that he's running out of film, and tearing down the self-assurances I just built up in my mind to hold onto some shred of sanity.\nMy eyes finally still on Fat's battered face, a single tear tracking down my cheek, feeling too warm for how deathly cold my body is.\n"Submit to me. Now. And he won't die," Jared commands me, expressing how impatient he's truly feeling. "We might be able to call someone to help him. That is.. if you're good."\nThat's a lie. I know it's a lie. When he has me- when he gets his way- Fat will be nothing but a liability.\nBut I can't just watch him die like this. He deserves better. He's a hero, the best man I've ever known. He shouldn't have to die, unable to even fight his fate.\nWhy did he follow when he was so weak? Why didn't he wait until he was strong again?\n"Please..." I sob out in the most pathetic voice I've ever heard come from my lips, "Please don't lie. Please really help him. I'll... I'll do anything."\nJared's face softens and his smile looks almost benevolent, as though he weren't the most reprehensible person in existence. "If you don't fight me, I'll get him help right now."\nHe pulls his phone out of his pocket as a show of his commitment to his word.\nI have no other options now. I either go to him and let him have his way with me and maybe Fat will live or deny him and guarantee Fat will die. It's not even a choice.\nStill focusing on Fat's face, I see his lips forming words. He's not getting enough air out to actually make sounds, though.\nBrushing blood-caked hair from his face, I lean closer.\n"Please... fight," he barely wheezes out.\nNeedles feel like they're piercing my skin everywhere on my body and I'm trembling so much, it feels almost like convulsions.\nI run my hand briefly through his dirty hair to try and comfort him.\n"I can't," I breathe hoarsely into his ear, another tear tracking down my face, "I... love you. You know that, don't you?"\nI feel myself and everything I ever knew was good in this world break into tiny little pieces when a small, desperate noise comes from him then nothing else. I can hardly breathe and I want to scream. But I want him to think I'm not afraid; that I'm sure of exactly what I'm doing. He can't know how terrified I truly am.\nI close my eyes and let a couple more tears drop silently onto his cheek before steeling myself and setting my jaw.\nLooking up at Jared finally, I push everything else away in order to face whatever is in my future with as much courage as I can muster. Then I stand, graceful as a cat, pulling my drooping wings back in.\nJared's smile grows wider. "Good. I'm glad you're seeing more sense now."\nI nod and step over Taishiro's form as though it were nothing but a puddle, keeping my attention on the shorter man in front of me.\nJared's scent reaches my nose the closer I get. The disgusting, sharp citrus smell makes me want to gag.\nWhen I reach him, he looks euphoric, almost crazed with ecstasy. Just how long has he been fantasizing about this moment?\n"Now, kiss me. And make me believe it, Aiko," he orders.\nWhat? Now? Taishiro is laying only a few feet away and he thinks I would want to kiss him?!\nI'm about to argue, snap at him but I tamp down my rage. Doing those things will only put me back at square one.\n"Okay," I acquiesce, my breaths coming more quickly as my heartbeats speed.\nI step toward him and lean down, putting my still shaking hand to his stubbled cheek.\nI don't know how terrible my face probably looks after struggling and crying but I do my best to give him the look of desire I've given to men a thousand times before.\nAs my eyes close, they slide to Taishiro's form one last time before I bring my cold, cracked lips to Jared's perfectly balmed, warm ones.\nMy wings flair and I inhale deeply the moment he opens his mouth to deepen the kiss.\nHe moans. He thinks it's a positive response- that his kiss is somehow seducing me- but it's my reaction to his taste. Disgustingly sweet. Like packing your mouth with pure sugar and tasting it melt slowly on your tongue.\nImmediately, energy flows into me, strengthening me slightly but not nearly enough to snap his neck right here or fight off one of those monsters if he summons one.\n"...have you ever tried to control it?" Fat Gum's- Taishiro's voice comes to me from some dark place in my mind I thought I'd pushed away "tried to not absorb it from someone while..."\nOr I could...\nMy fingers thread through Jared's hair and he moans into my mouth, his sweet flavor somehow getting sweeter.\nI'll be the one to save you this time, Fat-kun...\nSearching inside of myself for that energy I'm being fed, I try to pull on the stream that is slowly pouring into me. It feels like tipping a glass a little further so the liquid pours out just a bit more.\nThen I pull it again.\nThe stream gradually increases and I feel that energy filling me more quickly, making me stronger.\nMy tail whips back and forth, energized by how much I'm absorbing in such a small amount of time.\nSuddenly Jared makes a sound that's surprised and somewhat discomforted and he tries to pull back.\nNo. I don't think so...\nMy hands that are dug into his hair now grip it with a strength that I've never felt before and I keep my mouth attached to his, inhaling deeply again, finding that it helps pull more energy from him.\nI'm... stealing it. Before, people were willingly giving me their energy, however unknowingly. Much like they were giving me their body, they were also giving a part of their strength. But now... I'm forcing him to give me energy and he's feeling it leave him as the flow comes faster and faster.\nThe sweet taste suddenly vanishes as he pushes on me again, a panicked sound now squealing into my mouth just to die in my throat and nourish me further.\nHis sweetness is replaced with a flavor unlike any I've ever known before. I can't tell if I like it or not. It's surprising. What is this?\nOpening my eyes, I see his wide with terror, but I just continue pulling, my wings flapping and fanning out, creating tiny eddies of wind in the room.\nFear. This taste is his fear. It's feeding me better than even lust has and I pull him closer, even as he's pushing me now with all of his strength. But he might as well be trying to push away a concrete wall. It hardly feels like a puppy is pushing on my shoulders. Is it me who has gotten that much stronger, though? Or is he weakening?\nThat citrus smell no longer fills my nose, instead replaced with something colder.\nMore... I'll take everything from you...\nMy nails, that seem to have grown and thickened, dig into his scalp and I feel him scream into my mouth. That has an interesting taste as well... I wonder what other sounds he'll make before the end...\nI revel in the tears I see streaking down his cheek. Does he know he's dying too?\nMy wings are making a whirlwind instead of eddies now, blowing my hair in every direction and quickly drying the tears in Jared's eyes.\nThe light is fading in those baby blue irises and I can't think anything but "Good."\nI almost want to laugh.\nYour little pet had some fangs...\n"Aiko..."\nA whisper reaches my ears that immediately makes me freeze.\nThat sound... How does that one word make me feel like I'm wrapped in a warm blanket?\nFat-kun...\n"Aiko..." he whispers again, and somehow I can hear the pleading in his voice. Why? Why is he pleading? I'm saving us! I'm saving him! Jared will never be my or any other girl's master ever again. "Don't."\nNO! I'm not like you, Fat-kun. I'm not kind. I'm not forgiving. I'm not a hero. He hurt you. He would've killed you...\n"Ai-chan..."\nI shove Jared's now unconscious form away from me and he crumples to the floor. Not dead, but definitely not enough energy to do anything for days at least.\nTurning to Fat, my heart constricts all over again seeing his bruised face. His eyes are slitted open, loosely focusing on me. He can probably barely see through the swelling.\nForgetting Jared completely, I rush to Fat's side but halt the moment I see his pupils contract like he's seen something disturbing.\nWhy can I see that so clearly when he's still a few feet away from me?\nNow that I think on it, he was barely audible just a few moments ago but I heard him through the wind of my wings and the strangled sounds of Jared's screams. How?\nDropping to my knees, I grab for Jared's phone and nearly jump at the sight of my own hand. They end in claws like some kind of demonic raptor. That's why they felt longer...\nI can't unlock it. I don't know the password. I can make an emergency call but calling the police or an ambulance would get them here too late, especially if they would need to air lift him since there's no other way out of here.\nI can only stare at what I assume is the image of myself in the black mirror of the phone now gone dark.\n"What... happened?" I breathe shakily.\nI have to reach up and brush my fingers along the ridged horns curling at my hairline. My eyes seem to be glowing their amethyst color.\nMy wings... they're not small nor useless any longer. They're huge and flaring them out would make each tip touch either wall of the room.\nIs this what overindulging on energy looks like? Am I this monster forever now?\nMy grip tightens at the thought and the phone is crushed in my claws.\nI'm so much stronger... I could... I could probably get us out of here.\nI'll be the one to save you this time.\nTears spring to my eyes as I remember thinking that, unsure if I really could. But now I can.\n"I'm going to pick you up," I tell Fat Gum, turning to him again. I'm trying to prepare him for how much it might hurt.\nHe's been watching me this whole time but now he closes his eyes again and I take that as acceptance.\nCrawling toward him, I ever so gently scoop him into my arms and lift him. He's so light. It's like lifting a child. I can't tell if that's my strength or if he's that weakened now. Has Jared been starving him this whole time along with beating the shit out of him?\n"Aiko..." he whispers again and this time it's like he's trying to comfort me. But his eyes are still closed. I don't think he wants to open them. The momentary terror I saw before was enough to tell me everything I needed to know.\nHe truly didn't think I was a monster before. He knows I'm one now. Will he ever look at me with that carefree grin on his face again?\nDoing my best to steel my heart for a different kind of hurt this time, I easily kick the door down and carry him out to the balcony and stretch my wings wide, feeling them catch the wind as it blows softly around us.\nFlapping them and lifting off seems as simple as if I'd been doing it my whole life; like I was born to do it; like this is what my quirk was always meant to be.\nEven with the weight of another person in my arms, I soar through the air like an eagle and it's easy to get my bearings and determine my direction.\nI need to find a hospital...\nThere!\n"Taishiro... Fat-kun..." I murmur softly as I speed us toward the bright white building lit up in the night, "I'm getting you help. Please... don't leave me."\nBut he doesn't open his eyes again or say anything, even after I land and nurses hurry out, surrounding us.\nA gurney is rolled out to us and I set him on it.\nThey begin to roll him away and I move alongside, my eyes never leaving his battered face as I hold onto the scraps of his jacket.\n"Ma'am," another nurse says at my back, "if you'll come with me, I'll get a doctor to look at you as well and you can tell me what happen-"\n"No," I snap, my voice rough with emotion and the power still coursing through me, "I need to be with Fat-kun. I can't leave him!"\n"Ma'am," yet another nurse says, a male one, putting a hand on my shoulder and making me jump, "you can't follow him into surgery."\n"Don't touch me!" I growl, swiping his hand from me.\nThe other nurses are quiet for a moment, sharing a look between each other.\n"Ma'am, miss," a feminine voice says on the other side of the gurney, "Were going to do everything to save him. We have someone with a healing quirk here. He has a lot of experience and he's saved countless people. I need you to go with her now," she nods at her fellow nurse behind me, "and get checked out yourself."\nI can't! I can't leave him! I said I would save him!\n"But what if he.... What if he..."\nI can't even bring myself to think it even though I know it's a possibility.\nMy lips tremble and the shower of tears I've been holding back for days on end finally release themselves.\nI got out. I made it out of that hellhole. But if Fat isn't here, I might as well still be there. I might as well be dead myself.\n"We'll do everything to not let that happen," the male nurse says.\nI squeeze just a little tighter on Fat's jacket, my heart breaking all over again, then I let him go.\nI can't contain the cry of agony that rips itself from my throat as I sink to the floor, curling my wings around me. They actually fully shelter me for once.\nI can hear the nurse who's meant to take me with her kneel at my side. She doesn't say anything. She doesn't touch me. She just waits.\nMy body aches. My mind is overwhelmed. My heart is torn to shreds.\nI wish I had Fat here to hold me in his arms and soothe me with kind words until I can face the world again. I wish I'd killed Jared after all.\nWhen my tears slow after who knows how long, I pull my wings back and wipe my arm across my wet eyes.\nThe nurse is still kneeling next to me.\n"Can we call anybody? Do you need to talk to someone about what happened?"\n"...Yes," I tell her through a shuddering sob, realizing I still have a job to do, people who depend on me and people I need to save. "First, call Suneater."\n

Chapter 17:\n"Ai-senpai?" Suneater's usually trembling voice, now steady yet laced with worry, reaches me.\nI look up to find him peeking into my darkened hospital room.\nSomething inside of me cracks seeing a familiar, safe face.\n"Suneater!" I cry, flying out of my bed and nearly bowling him over with my hug.\nHe stiffens. I'm sure he didn't expect this kind of behavior from me. He's used to seeing me strong and confident- and probably not looking like a demon.\n"Suneater, I'm so sorry!" I say tearfully, all of my tears mostly spent already, "I'm so sorry this happened! I'm sorry I was the reason Fat..."\nI can't bring myself to say anything because I don't know for sure what state he's in.\nIt's only been about 45 minutes since I got here. I've been sitting in my room, stewing about everything I've ever done wrong after the doctor checked me out, I made all the necessary phone calls to the other heroes, and took the shortest shower imaginable in order to keep from missing any news. I also made a call to Tomoyo whose tone was clipped like she was trying to hold back her true emotions as she said, "I'll be there soon" then hung up the phone.\nI'm so glad Suneater got here first. I never realized until seeing his concerned face just how much I've come to care for him too. He's like family to me now. Everyone at Fat Gum's agency is. These people I've let into my life have made it so much richer.\nThe tension in Suneater's body relaxes a bit as he lays a very light hand at my back, patting it gently.\n"Ai-senpai, I don't know what happened. I don't know what happened to you that made you transform this way and I don't know what happened to Fat to get him in that serious condition, but I do know that he couldn't have done anything but try to protect you. It's not in his nature to sit and wait. I know you were kidnapped and I know that in itself was enough for him to do anything to get you back."\nI nod, unwillingly accepting his explanation and brush-off of my apology.\n"Did they tell you how he's doing?" I ask hopefully, pulling away to keep from making him uncomfortable for too long. I'm sure the way I look is upsetting for him also.\n"I think they're planning on surgery to properly set some broken bones that had begun to heal and I think there might've been some internal damage too. The surgeon with the healing quirk is working on him at the same time, repairing what he can that's visible from the outside and then he'll go in when they've finished surgery and do the best he can healing what they worked on the rest of the way. They didn't let me see him but they said he was pretty messed up and he would've died if he hadn't gotten help within the hour. You saved his life, Ai-senpai."\nIt chills me to hear how extensive his injuries are. He was hurt like that because of me.\nIf he'd never met me- if he just would've dropped me, like he should've, from the start- none of this would've happened to him.\n"So he's... gonna make it?"\nI swallow thickly, my nerves making me jittery. I want to know and yet I don't.\n"Barring any complications, they think he'll make a full recovery," Suneater says, a look of relief he probably can't conceal crossing his face.\nClutching at my chest, I plop into the chair next to my bed. He's gonna be okay... He's gonna make it through and go on to live a happy life.\nI send up a prayer to any ancestor or deity that might be listening.\nI promise, with every fiber of my being, that I won't ruin his life any further. I won't burden him with my problems if he can just please please make it through.\nAfter taking a few minutes to pull myself together, I look up at Suneater again.\n"Thank you for coming. Even though I know it wasn't for me just... thank you..."\nSuneater makes an awkward face, nodding and pulling at his hood.\nWe're silent again for a stretch of time as he comes and sits at the foot of my bed.\nThen, interestingly enough, he's the first to speak again, "So I guess you know about him now... How he changes..."\nThe muscles in my jaw tighten. "Yeah. I suspected you knew. And Red and Steel..."\nHe nods, his face abashed, only watching the floor.\n"Were you all just... laughing at me? Thinking I was an idiot? I guess I don't blame you. I would've thought-"\n"No!" he responds emphatically, though still with a lowered voice, "None of us thought that, Ai-senpai. None of us laughed at your expense. There were so many times I wanted to tell you and thought things would be easier if Fat was just honest but he was so worried you would never come back. He didn't talk to me or anyone else much about it other than to plead with us not to say anything to you."\nI think back at the way Suneater tiptoed around the subject of me, Taishiro, and Fat Gum. He'd been the one to tell me I wasn't being harmful, though even back then it was already so clear we were getting very comfortable with each other. I was relieved that he felt that way because I guess it felt like it was confirming what I wanted to believe: That Fat and I were in no way attracted to each other. I realize now what he was really saying was that he saw how close we were getting and it was okay because both of the men I cared for were actually one in the same.\nEven now, after everything that's happened, I still feel so fucking idiotic.\n"I hope you can forgive us, especially Fat, for deceiving you. And thank you for saving him despite that."\nSuneater's eyes are still on the floor and I don't really know how to say that they've already been forgiven. Yes, it does matter that he lied and that he led me to believe we were friends while also pretending to be someone else when we had sex... but I was horrible to him. I made him feel inferior in his true body. He still wanted to help me and this was the only way he knew how.\nI guess none of that really matters now anyway... It's all over even if he does survive.\n"I forgive you. All of you," I answer him finally, "Sorry if it makes you uncomfortable for me to say but there's no way I can't forgive you. You and Red and Steel are like the siblings I never had. I just kinda wormed my way into your lives and you all still accepted me. So don't be sorry for keeping his secret when doing so let me be a part of all this for as long as I have been."\nIt's Suneater's turn to be awkwardly silent now, probably having a hard time not completely turning away from me or leaving the room.\n"I'm sorry I've never asked before now. I don't even know if it's appropriate to... But I still want to. What's your real name, Suneater?"\nHe's dangerously close to completely clamming up. I can see him fidgeting with his cape, his hands trembling.\n"Tamaki," he practically squeaks out, "Amajiki Tamaki."\nI give him a weak smile, the best I can muster, "I'm glad we can finally meet on equal footing, Tamaki-kun."\nHe looks up then, meeting my eyes as though I've somehow bolstered his confidence and opens his mouth as though he's about to ask something but the door to my room opens and Tomoyo bursts into the room looking the least put-together I've ever seen her.\n"Aiko!" she wails, running up to me and she seems like she might hug me but she pulls back as though she's hit a brick wall when she sees me closer up. "What happened? What did he do to you?"\n"He didn't do this," I correct her, hanging my head, "I did it."\n"Wha-? How?"\nSuneater looks at me with a certain amount of interest as well. I don't want to tell them, though. Not about how my quirk worked initially and definitely not now that I used it to nearly kill a man. One person I love being afraid of me is already too much to bear.\n"I don't know, I just... wanted to save Fat so badly. I just snapped."\nNot a complete lie, though also not the full truth.\nTomoyo nods with acceptance and understanding. But Suneater's eyes are carefully assessing me now. Does he not believe me?\n"He didn't hurt you did he?" Tomoyo goes on without skipping a beat, "I should have known he was dangerous. I should've seen it. Where is he? If he so much as touched you I'll-"\n"I'm fine! For All Might's sake, calm down, woman," I snap, my wings flaring a bit, which I notice is now far more obvious than it used to be.\nShe breathes a gigantic sigh of relief and finally relaxes. I don't know if I feel happy or uncomfortable that she's feeling this protective of me.\n"Some heroes and the police are coming up soon. I saw them downstairs as I was stepping on the elevator. Are you okay to talk to them? Do you need to get some rest first? I can tell them to leave you alone for a little while."\nI shake my head, "No. I need them to go get Jared. He's incapacitated and he'll probably die if someone doesn't go get him."\n"So?" she shrugs, rolling her eyes, cold as ice. An unsurprising response from her.\n"So he needs to answer for everything! I need to tell them what happened and... other important information." My eyes go to Suneater, conveying that the information I have is confidential and urgent.\n"Okay..." she says, sounding confused.\nThen, as if on cue, my door opens again and a rather large group of people explode inside. Heroes- including Lady Boa, Rock Lock, Siren, Whitney, as well as some I've never seen before- and police immediately begin bombarding me with questions and I already feel a headache coming on.\n--\nIt takes hours but I'm able to give a decently detailed recounting of what's happened in the past three days.\nI give the best description I can of where Jared kept me and what direction I came from in order to get here and a large chunk of heroes and cops depart to find his apartment.\nTomoyo informs me that Fashion Week was canceled after the attack occurred. A lot of the models are absolutely terrified. Tons of people witnessed Jared kidnapping me and its spread like wildfire. He was a trusted and well-loved photographer and no one knows who's safe and who's dangerous anymore. A lot of models have just chosen to change careers.\nI can hardly blame them. How can you feel safe at your photoshoot if even the person taking pictures of you could be your stalker?\nI don't know what my own future will be with this industry. Will I ever feel safe again? Will I ever trust anyone?\nI ask Tomoyo to retrieve my things from my hotel room after my explanation is through and most of the crowd has dissipated. Partly because I want the comfort of my own clothes again, partly because I need to speak with the heroes that are left in my room in private.\nWhen she departs, I tell them what Jared revealed to me about using his quirk to steal girls away.\n"Did you see any sign of other girls there?" Siren asks but I shake my head.\n"No. It seemed practically untouched. I don't know if he just cleans that well or if he never brought anyone else there. He made it seem like it was 'special for me.'"\nLady Boa sneers in disgust. "What a sicko."\n"So does this mean... it's over? We caught the guy?" Whitney wonders aloud.\nI'm surprised to find that she doesn't look saddened at the prospect. If this job ends for her, she'll either have to go back to being a sidekick or have to face her family and finally tell them that she has no interest in being a hero. But, then again, she isn't a selfish person. She probably cares more about saving people from suffering than her own comfort.\n"We'll have to decide that after we search his apartment. Just catching him doesn't mean we've found the girls who are already gone, it just means we've saved possible future victims," Rock Lock explains and Whitney nods her head in understanding.\nI spend a little more time discussing what the plan is from here on out, still waiting for news about Fat.\nThe rest of them depart save for Whitney and Suneater after Tomoyo comes back with my clothes and I'm finally able to change into something more comfortable.\nThe nursing staff doesn't seem to take issue with it since I have no injuries in need of treating but they want me to stay until a trauma counselor can speak with me and there won't be one coming in until tomorrow.\nNow that it's getting into the latest hours of the evening, my tiredness is catching up to me. I'm beyond exhausted but I don't want to be unconscious if there's any more news about Fat. I doubt they'd wake me up if they found me sleeping.\nTomoyo offers to stay but I send her home. She's been hovering over me like some kind of helicopter parent and it's really starting to weird me out. Not that I don't appreciate her concern, I'm just still feeling overwhelmed and anxious and she's not helping matters.\nWhen I voice my fears to Suneater after she's gone he acknowledges my worry as though he understands.\n"I've had a few injured friends over the years, including Fat. It comes with being a hero so I'm not complaining. But I know how it is losing sleep some nights, waiting for news on if you'll lose one more person in your life. I'll wait up. You sleep and I'll wake you if there's news.\n"You promise?" I ask, my heart is also tired of being pulled back and forth with hope and hurt today. "Even for the smallest thing? Any news at all?"\n"Yes," he assures me.\n"Get some rest, Aiko-chan. I'll wait too," Whitney offers, throwing a shy look toward Suneater that he doesn't see.\n"I... guess I'll try to sleep then," I concede, taking a seat on my bed.\nSuneater nods at me as he makes his way to the exit, Whitney close behind him.\nWhen the door closes and I'm alone again, I suddenly hate it. I hate the silence. I hate the darkness threatening at every corner. I hate the thoughts that force their way into my head.\nI turn the TV on and don't even notice what channel it's on. It's some kind of drama TV show but I don't care. It's sound. It's voices. It's unreality.\nSettling down in my sheets, I try to relax as much as I can.\nIt doesn't even take a minute for me to fall asleep.\n--\nIn the early, early hours of the morning, Suneater wakes me to tell me Fat made it through surgery. He's being taken to the ICU where he'll stay overnight with round the clock supervision.\nHe hasn't woken up but Suneater tells me the doctors don't believe he will for at least a few days if not weeks.\nEven though I could see him now, I'm hesitant to do so. That fear in his eyes that I saw the last time they were on me stops me every time I consider it.\nInstead, I choose to go back to sleep. Rest comes easier now that I know he's pulled through and his prognosis is good.\nBut I'm awoken again all too soon to be told Jared's been taken into custody.\nHe seems to be in a coma-like sleep and isn't reacting to any external stimuli.\nThe news has me worried. Could I have done worse than kill him? Could I have damned him to some near-death slumber for the rest of his life? Am I really that monstrous?\nI can't go back to sleep after that. I can only stand in the bathroom, staring at myself in the mirror. My horns, my gigantic wings that are practically as tall as I am, these disgusting claws. I hate them. I hate everything about them. They're just confirmation of what I always knew I was, what Kenji knew I was, what anyone who finds out what I can do would know I am.\nOnly Fat thought differently. Only Fat saw me and not just a pretty face or a roll in the sheets or a freak with a killer quirk. And for a moment there, he actually made me believe I was more than those things as well.\nUntil now...\nThe counsellor visits, as promised, in the morning.\nShe's friendly and even-voiced but I just can't seem to stay focused on our conversation. All I can think of is how little I need this shit. I don't need someone to coax my story out of me, I'll willingly tell anyone what a depraved man Jared is. I just need Fat to be okay. If I can just be sure of that, I don't need anything else.\nShe insists I go to a therapist in Osaka, though, and sets an appointment with one for a week from now. Fucking great...\nAfter she's gone, I'm free to leave and go home, a prospect I'm both looking forward to and dreading in equal measure. Being completely alone is daunting right now. At the same time I just want to be back in my apartment, in a place I know is safe. I want to sit and watch my shows, work on my planner, anything that will keep my mind busy and away from all of these thoughts pressing in on me.\nA not so small part of me aches to stay in Tokyo, get a hotel, and wait by Fat's bedside for him to recover and wake up. But I just can't stand the thought of him opening his eyes to see me and making that scared face all over again. I'm clinging to what happy memories I have with him already. Seeing him look at me that way again would only break me.\nWhitney agrees to take me home so she can catch me up on what all has been happening in the modelling community and the rumors that have been going around. From what I've heard so far, it's all just a mass of confusion right now.\nAs I get my things ready to go, Tamaki- now dressed in his civilian clothes- watches with an excess of anxiety as compared to how relaxed he's seemed lately.\nHe fidgets with the hem of his sleeve, then taps his toe lightly on the floor, then bites at the inside of his cheek.\nI'm fairly certain I know what's bugging him but I refuse to acknowledge it. Normally, I'd give him a break and bring up the subject myself but this time... I just don't want to if I don't have to.\nI'm sorry Tamaki, I'm having difficulty dealing with all of this myself.\nEverything packed back into my luggage I'd originally brought with me for fashion week, I start to head out the door when Tamaki finally pulls the nerve together to say something.\n"Ai-senpai, I don't think you should leave," he says, clenching his hands into fists while looking at the ground, "Fat would... would want you to be here. I'm sure he'll want to see you when you wake up."\nLooking back at him, I'm happy that he finally spoke up. I can't grant him his wish, though.\n"I don't think he would," I say softly, a sad smile gracing my lips.\n"Why do you think that? He's in- He cares about you. He would want to see you safe and healthy."\n"Then can you just tell him I am?" I ask with pleading eyes.\nTamaki sighs, shaking his head. He doesn't understand and I don't blame him.\n"Is it because of how you look? You don't look that different. You don't look bad."\n"It's not just that, Tamaki-kun. Things happened... You haven't seen Jared yet but you should. I did that to him. Fat saw..." I clench my jaw and blink away the beginnings of another fit of tears.\nI should be stronger than this. Why can't I just deal with it?\n"He saw what I did," I say stiffly, "He saw that this is what I became because of that. He won't want to see me when he wakes up."\nTamaki still looks unconvinced but he's at a loss for words now, his entire argument spent. I'm sure he thought it wouldn't be hard to get me to stay. I wish I could. I want to. I want to go into his room right now and crawl in bed with him; be his comfort like he was mine. But I can't.\n"Will you go see him now at least? He won't wake up for a while yet but you can still visit him... if you want."\nTamaki's eyes meet mine and the look they hold is firm and sure. This really matters to him.\nI almost refuse anyway- I don't want to risk anything- but I'm so fucking weak when it comes to that man. I have to see him just one more time. I don't want the image of his mangled body to be the one that haunts my memory if I never see or hear from him again.\nSighing heavily, I nod my head and follow him as he begins leading me to the ICU and Fat's room.\nHe waits outside while I step in and shut the door, then it's just me and Fat.\nMy wings droop once more as I take him in. He's not attached to a bunch of machines thankfully. Just some IV bags and a vitals monitor. The line on the monitor spikes for each beat of his heart and something about seeing it look steady and normal comforts me.\nThere's no beeping sound from the monitor and I'm glad I can have this visit with him without that annoying background noise.\nHe's still bruised but his swelling, burns, and cuts seem to have mostly been healed. I assume the doctor with the healing quirk has done as much as he could.\n"Fat," I choke out, stepping toward his bed.\nI know he won't respond and that he probably can't even hear me. Why am I torturing myself like this?\nStepping closer, I sweep the back of one clawed hand across his cheek.\nHe's warm and looks so peaceful. I want so badly to kiss him, lay with him, whisper comforting words to him.\n"Fat, I'm gonna go back to Osaka," I tell him, leaning down.\nHis face is placid, oblivious to everything around him.\nI take a seat on the bed, resisting the urge to curl up at his side. He wouldn't want that. I need to keep my distance.\n"I'm still mad at you for lying to me," I say haughtily, trying to keep my voice from cracking as my heart sinks lower and lower, "If you ever want to say you're sorry, if you ever want me to forgive you, you need to get better and tell me to my face. You better-"\nMy voice breaks just like I didn't want it to and I can't keep myself from grabbing for his hand as I grimace to hold back the tears blurring my vision.\nI put his palm to my cheek like he would do if he were trying to make me feel better like he used to.\n"I'm sorry." My voice shakes as I whisper, "I'm so sorry, Fat. I won't hurt you anymore. I promise."\nLeaning into his palm, I close my eyes, willing the tears back. I've done enough crying.\nI sit this way for a good long while until his arm starts to feel heavy- I'm the one holding it up, after all, not him. Then I set his hand back beside him and stand.\n"Rest. Get better. Be safe," I say with finality.\nI lean in closer to plant a kiss on his forehead but think better of it and pull away quickly. I don't have that right.\nPushing the door open, my eyes go to Tamaki who immediately looks away, though it doesn't seem out of discomfort this time. He probably doesn't want me to feel embarrassed that my face is a wreck.\n"Ok, I'll go now," I say, trying to sound cheery. That doesn't really work out. "I'll see you later, Tamaki-kun."\n"Yeah," he agrees, "See you in a few days."\nMy brow furrows and I blink at this blindsiding, "Uhm... A few days?"\n"You said you had to go to another counselling session. I'll take you."\nOh. I hadn't even considered that. I was expecting to be on my own again from now on.\n"You don't have to do that. I- I can do it on my own. You can stay here with Fat." I give him an out. I'm sure he'd much rather stay by his mentor's side. "I don't have to be your responsibility. You don't owe me anything and I know I'm a burden."\nSuneater says nothing for a good long while- a couple minutes at least- and I figure he's ignored me, not wanting to have to have this conversation.\nThen he takes a deep breath.\n"Even though I do owe you for saving my mentor's life, I'm not doing this because of that," he says quietly, "I know Fat cares for you and would want me to but that's not it either. It's because your safety and well-being mean something to me as well. You've always respected me and included me. Red and Steel love you too. Even Maki is fond of you. You're part of the Fat Gum Agency family now whether you intend to be or not. I'll take care of you because I want to."\nI'm completely speechless. I don't know what to say to that. Warmth blooms in my heart for the first time since escaping from that hellhole. He's saying I belong somewhere. That I'm... wanted.\nBut he's not finished yet as he continues on.\n"I've always felt like those who are outgoing and push me out of my comfort zone were too bright for me. They shine like the sun and I just linger in darkness," he looks down at his hands, toying with the hem of his shirt, "But you shine in your own way. Not like the sun. Not like my best friend or Red or Fat. More like the moon. Your presence isn't overbearing and you don't push me. While I need that sometimes, I like the comfort you bring of letting me do things in my own time too. So thank you and let me protect you and keep you safe for now, Onee-san."\n"Nee..." My ribcage feels tight around my heart. Doesn't he know his mentor won't want me around anymore? Doesn't he know that I'm a monster? But he still wants me around? I'd felt accepted and happy when he called me senpai but ... "Nee-san..."\nHe's giving me something I've craved my whole life. He's making it seem so simple but it's something that's been impossible for me to find ever since I discovered my quirk's true power; ever since I was tossed out for wanting to be a model... Tamaki, Red, Steel, Maki... Fat... They're giving me a family.\nHow is it possible to feel so heartbroken and yet so accepted and whole for once as well? It's confusing and overwhelming.\n"Thank you, Tamaki," I barely squeak out past the lump in my throat. The first joyful tear I've cried in a long while rolls down my cheek and I quickly wipe it away, sniffling.\nPlacing a hand on his head as though I were commending a younger sibling, I pet his hair and he flushes with embarrassment.\n"Thank you for everything you do. I'm glad Fat recruited you and I'm thankful you've shown me this side of you. You're a good person and you're dear to me too."\nHis face is bright red by now and he finally turns away, facing the wall.\nI guess that's it for this conversation. I pushed a little too far with my compliments and affection but I also want to have at least one person in the world who knows for sure how I really feel about them. I'm glad it's someone as kind and gentle as Tamaki.\n--\nWhen I get home, I immediately get undressed, feeling exhausted already despite having been awake for only a handful of hours. My hand curls around the note I'd written back at Jared's and I pull it out of my pocket, where I'd stored it after taking a shower.\nI read it again. Should I throw it away? I don't need it anymore and it'll remind me of those terrible days every single time I look at it.\nBut I can't. Something in me says I should keep it. I don't want to forget how I felt when I wrote this. I don't want to lose this aching and warmth I feel when I think about him. Even if he'll never look at me the same again, I still want to remember this and hold onto it for as long as I can.\nSo I fold the note back up and stuff it in my underwear drawer.\nI slide into bed, pulling the comforter up to my chin and holding that squishy pillow I now know I wish were Fat to my chest.\nWill he be okay? Will someone really always be at his side to watch over him? Will they give him enough food when he wakes up? Will he wonder where I went when he sees I'm not there or will he be relieved?\nPain twists inside me as I ask myself these questions and I have to stop. I'm torturing myself with things I'll never know for sure. I can't keep doing this or I'll break down and find myself on a train back to Tokyo tomorrow.\nMaybe I shouldn't go back to sleep but what else is there right now? I need some escape. I don't want to do anything. I don't want to see anyone. I just want to sleep and then maybe I'll have some peace from my own inner thoughts for at least a little while.\n--\nTime passes.\nEvery day feels like I'm existing in slow motion, waiting to just start living again. I'm refusing to book new shoots for the time being and just trying to return to a life where I feel comfortable in my own skin again.\nOver the course of the first week, my claws and horns recede and my wings shrink back to their tiny size. I'm kinda disappointed they didn't stay since I haven't tried to fly again since that first night. But if it means everything else returns to normal too, I'll happily sacrifice my ability to fly.\nTamaki keeps his word to come and take me to the counselor. I sit and answer her questions until time is up.\nThis one can better see my lack of interest in counseling. She requests I keep coming for a few more weeks and then I can stop if I'm still against it. I hesitantly agree. She seems kind. There's no harm in giving her a chance at least.\nI've also been taking care of Bento. I didn't want to at first, worried that Fat might get upset if he finds out or will feel forced to see me to pick him up. But this sweet round fluffball has been a companion I never realized I would enjoy so much.\nHe curls up next to me when I'm on the couch watching TV and warms my feet in bed. He also likes to walk over my work as I lay out stickers and pens for my planner. I suppose that's more annoying than endearing but I've just kinda gotten used to it.\nThe most difficult thing to deal with is how much I miss Fat. I never realized just how ingrained in my life he's become.\nHe should be yelling at the stupid people in my reality shows with me. He should be talking me into trying out new food places. He should be pushing me to model again. He should be here. And now I doubt he ever will be again.\nMy anxiety has returned with a vengeance. I'm terrified of the dark. I'm terrified of elevators. I'm even terrified of most anyone touching me that isn't familiar. I just keep feeling those smooth, greedy hands on me and it makes me want to scream.\nThis horrible feeling threatens to keep me from going out at all but I'm fighting so hard to get past it. I can't let this control my life. Even when I come home and just break down, climbing into bed to feel the security of the familiar, I wake up the next morning determined to try again.\nI know Jared is still in his coma-like state and unable to do anything to me anymore but my fear still gets the best of me sometimes. It's not always easy to rationalize away anxiety.\nAny time I need to go out Tamaki, or less often, Red and Steel, come to take me wherever I need to go. I feel bad that they're coming all the way across town just to babysit me so I don't have a panic attack but they don't ever act like they're inconvenienced.\nThey become the new bright parts of my day and I find myself beginning to come up with reasons to be able to interact with them, sometimes even inviting them to lunch or to let me make them dinner.\nThey're keeping me sane and grounded and, at the end of two weeks, things finally, finally, finally start to feel like they might eventually be okay again. I can make it through. When I have good people in my life supporting me- when I don't have to face all of this alone- I can heal.\n"So... Whitney's coming by tomorrow," I mention casually to Tamaki as he brings me up to my apartment after accompanying me grocery shopping. He and Whitney haven't interacted since I left the hospital with her. I don't know if anything happened between them while I was sleeping but I highly doubt it. Both of them were stressed and looked like they probably just sat around in silence the whole time. Part of me is glad I was unconscious for that.\nHe doesn't react initially although I know he's heard me but he sticks his hands in his pockets where I know he's probably trying to hide his fidgety fingers.\n"That's... good," he replies, eyes shifting away from me.\n"You could come by if you want. We could have lunch together!" I suggest, my excitement growing at the thought. I still haven't given up this ship. And, to be completely honest, I'd like to see someone happy with their love life, even if it's not me.\n"I- I don't know," he says with a shrug, looking like he's already about to clam up with the way this conversation is going, "We don't talk much."\n"Well don't you want to talk to her? Aren't you... friends or something?" I push a little further.\n"I... I thought we were friends but she's so energetic and happy around you guys and then when she's around me she seems like she gets so quiet and serious. I think... I might make her uncomfortable. I guess I can understand why."\nI have to bite back my retort. He's such a bright kid but he's not seeing why she's acting that way with him?\n"She's not uncomfortable with you," I assure him, unsure of how much more I can say without completely outing her crush on him\n"Why do you say that? Has she told you something?"\n"Well... no. She hasn't really told me anything." This is true. I just made assumptions and she never denied them.\n"She hasn't said anything about me?"\nThis is the closest Tamaki's ever come to being pushy but it's too cute that this is the reason why. He really is gaining an interest in her. I have to wonder if he even realizes it's happening.\n"Well I just... I know she's not uncomfortable around you. She only has nice things to say when you're brought up." I don't need to tell him that he's always been a topic of conversation between us every time I've seen her since that fateful trip to Tokyo a couple months ago.\n"Oh..." he responds, his cheeks darkening slightly and he turns away (to hide it, I assume), "Well I think I should probably stay at the agency and get some work done tomorrow if you don't mind."\n"Oh. Ok," I concede. I suppose he should stay at the agency sometimes. He's been here almost every day for the past week save for the couple of times Red and Steel have been here. "Well, thanks for coming with me again today. You can come in for some tea if you want." Though, I'm fairly certain he's going to turn me down as he often does.\nAnd like clockwork, "N-no thank you. But there is something Red Riot and Real Steel wanted me to ask before I go."\nI look back over at him expectantly as I turn the lock to my door. "Oh yeah?"\nHe's still not looking at me, though. I guess I overtaxed his social threshold for today.\n"UA's cultural festival is coming up in a couple weeks and they want you to come. It's not open to the public but Red got you entry because... you know. And he was hoping you'd have fun. You just have to wear this and they'll let you in."\nHe holds out a badge that looks like a visitor's pass I can clip onto my clothing.\nThose boys... Why are they the sweetest, most considerate kids on the planet?\n"I... I guess I can do that." I take the badge from him and put it in my purse for safekeeping.\nI have to admit, after learning so much about what school life is like for heroes-in-training, I'm interested in seeing what the best in the country is like.\nAs I wave goodbye to Suneater and head inside, I lean back against my door and clutch at the fabric over my heart.\nToday Suneater, Red, and Steel gave me something to finally look forward to and my world has gotten just a tad brighter because of it.\n--\nThe next day, I get myself dressed relatively decently for once. Up until now, I've mostly been wearing leggings and T-shirts. Today, I've stepped it up a notch with leggings and a tunic.\nWhitney didn't tell me why she's coming but I assume it's to keep me updated on the goings on of the modelling industry and how she's been doing.\nIt's definitely a welcome distraction, I'll admit.\nAs I'm finishing an episode of some cute slice of life anime episode, Whitney's knock sounds at the door and I get up from the perch on the couch.\nPadding to the door, I start pulling it open as I greet her. "You've got perfect timing, I just finished-"\nI stop and stare wide-eyed.\nThe moment warm honey eyes meet mine and crinkle at the sides with a smile that still so quickly and easily spreads across his face, everything I was ever anxious about falls away from me.\n"Fat-kun!" I cry out, flinging myself into his arms without a second thought, "Fat-kun! Fat-kun!" I can't stop saying it because I can hardly believe he's real.\nTears of happiness and relief and still some kind of sadness spill from my eyes as I hold onto him as though he were my life raft. He is my life raft. And now he's here; he's alive; he's smiling at me.\n"Ai-chan," he croaks out, his own voice strained with emotion. His long, toned arms circle me in his warm embrace and I know this is the happiest place I'll ever be. Just here, held close to him.\n"You're here! Y-you're okay! You're awake! I- How- Why-"\nFat chuckles at my inability to put a full sentence together. He sounds so carefree, like nothing's been wrong this whole time, like some kind of nightmare creature isn't standing before his very eyes. I resent the way hope sparks in me.\n"I brought food," he holds up a massive bag filled to the brim with takeout. "We could eat."\nHe's still thin, not having regained his fat yet. I'm willing to bet he's starving.\nI step back from him, wiping an extra tear away. Now that I've calmed a bit, I realize how stupid that was. I probably just made him feel extremely uncomfortable and he's doing his best just to keep a pleasant face on.\n"O-okay," I move back into the apartment, letting him follow behind and close the door behind him.\nFat starts setting food out on my coffee table as though it's just another day we're spending together.\nHe's Taishiro too. Up until this point, I still had a hard time putting the two together in my mind because while Taishiro was so warm and kind, he always felt so closed off and distant. Fat was always warm and kind and open and unafraid of us being close. Now that I know about him, this Taishiro standing before me is now just Fat Gum being Fat Gum but thinner. Now I can finally see the two people melding into one and now I'm finally relieved that the two men I believed I'd fallen for are actually just this single beautiful human being before me.\nWhy do these revelations have to come about too late?\n"When did you wake up?" I ask, trying to fill some of the silence in the room.\nAt that question, he stops, setting down the last of the food and turns to me.\n"Oh... Well... I guess maybe three hours ago?" he says, scratching at his chin, his eyes rolled upward in thought.\nI do a double take before my jaw drops to the floor "THREE HOURS?!" It takes two just to take a train from Tokyo to Osaka!\n"Yeah, I had to go home really quick to change and take a shower and then I picked up food and came here so maybe it's closer to three and a half. I'm not sure."\n"Does Tamaki know that you're awake? Did you tell anybody?" I question anxiously, not wanting any of them left in the dark.\n"Of course! I texted everyone while I was on the train," he says like it's no big deal.\nHe texted them... Why do I feel like they're going to be breaking my door some time soon trying to get at their mentor?\n"Fat... Why... Why would you..." Why would he come here?\nHis smile is so bright and his golden eyes glitter when he looks at me, taking a step closer which has me on edge.\n"The second I woke up, I knew you weren't there. No one there told me you weren't but I just... felt like someone had told me at some point." My whole body goes still. I told him. I told him I was leaving. "And I knew I had to come here to see you. You're still mad at me and I have to tell you I'm sorry... to your face."\n"If you ever want to say you're sorry, if you ever want me to forgive you, you need to get better and tell me to my face."\nGoosebumps prickle up and down my skin. He heard. He listened.\n"So, I guess we should have this conversation first, huh?" he scratches the back of his head, looking away from me.\n"I- I- But-" There's so much I want to say and yet can't say. So much I don't understand. Why is he acting this way? Why is he looking for forgiveness when he shouldn't care anymore anyway? Does he just want it so there's some kind of resolution to the issues between us before he turns away from me?\n"I'm sorry, Aiko, for so much it's hard to even put into words," he begins before I can even get a word out, "I lied to you from the second you came to my agency. I let you believe that I wasn't Taishiro and I slept with you not telling you who I really was. Please don't be mad at my pupils. I asked them to stay quiet about it too but they always wanted me to tell you. They probably trusted you to accept me more than I did."\nHe pauses and takes another step toward me, his large hand in a fist at his side. It's probably taking a lot of willpower for him to even approach me.\n"And I didn't protect you when I said I would never let anything get to you. I let you walk away from me because I was ashamed of myself and let you be taken. Then I made it even worse by trying to follow. I forced you into that..." He trails off and now I see he's reliving something.\nHow can he say he forced me into anything? Look what happened to him because of me!\nI don't want to hear any more. I don't want him to go any further. I can't stand to hear him say out loud what I already know in my heart. I don't want to hear him call me a monster.\n"You don't have to say anything else, Fat. Let's just sit and eat. We can talk later."\nHe blinks at me, his face seeming unsure. But he nods anyway and holds his hand out in the direction of the couch, offering me a seat first.\nAfter I sit, he takes a seat on the opposite end of the couch. Much further than he used to when we ate together.\n"I haven't been watching Honeymoon for Twelve. I have a few saved up now if you want to watch that," I offer.\n"Yeah," he agrees warmly, "I'd like that."\nBefore I start the show, I chew on my lip before asking, "So now that I know about you being both Fat and Taishiro, I don't know what to call you."\nI've been wondering this for a while now, struggling with what to even refer to him as in my own mind.\nHe looks down at his feet, still abashed about me bringing up his untruthfulness even if it's not to scold him.\n"Well, I guess how it usually works is you call me by my hero name when I'm in costume and by my given name when I'm not."\n"Oh..." I feel foolish now for having never considered calling any hero by a name other than their hero one save for Whitney. "So now, I'd call you Taishiro?"\nHe nods, his cheeks darkening to a pink shade.\n"Okay, I'll try to remember."\nThere's a small awkward silence between us before I turn back to the TV, turning on the show at last, and we watch while we eat. But it's just not the same as it used to be. There's no banter. Fat doesn't scold the TV every few minutes. We don't even laugh at anything.\nAt some point Fat gets up to get a drink but he walks all the way around my couch just so he doesn't have to brush past me to reach the kitchen.\nI confirm my suspicion that he might be avoiding my touch when I "accidentally" bump him with my elbow and he just says "That's okay." instead of elbowing me back like he always used to.\nBy the time I'm finished eating at the end of the first episode, I feel like my heart is about to implode and I don't know when I might burst out in tears.\nEverything is fucked up. Nothing is right! Why?! Why can't this last small amount of time I have with him be blissfully ignorant and just as happy as it's always been?!\nI pause the show as the credits roll to keep it from moving on to the next episode and slam the remote down on the table, startling him. I can't take this anymore! As per my usual self, I can't just sit here suffering in this awkward, painful limbo. I have to say something. I need to rip the bandaid off, no matter how painful it is.\n"You don't have to do this, Fat. You don't have to be here for me if you don't want."\nHe turns his head toward me, deep lines of concern creasing his brow.\n"Why would you say that? I came here because I didn't want to go anywhere else. I needed to see you."\n"Because you're... afraid or... I don't know. Not afraid but don't want to be near me anymore because of what I did. I can tell. You're not touching me anymore, you're shying away from me. It's okay, though, I expected it. I accept it. I'll be okay."\n"Aiko," he chuckles deeply, making my tail curl at that most pleasant sound, "I'm not afraid of you. I'm just trying to respect your space. I don't know how you're feeling. I don't know if you want anyone touching you or being near you. I couldn't stop myself from coming here to see you but I don't want to scare you."\nMy head rings with confusion. Scare me? I'm the monster here. I'm the one who drains people's lives against their will. He knows it. He saw it firsthand.\n"But before, at the... the tower. When you were..." I can't say it out loud, "I saw your eyes... your fear when I turned to you."\nTaishiro's eyes fill with understanding and he smiles in a sort of heartbroken way.\n"Aiko, I was afraid, I don't deny that."\nMy hand squeezes into a fist, my heart throbbing in pain like I've been stabbed.\nBut he continues, "I wasn't afraid of you, though. I was afraid for you. That you'd pushed too far; that you'd lost yourself."\n"But you- you wouldn't look at me."\n"I want to look at nothing but you. You're beautiful. When you transformed, you were still beautiful and powerful, like a goddess."\nLike a goddess. Not a monster... a goddess.\n"I let myself relax when I knew you were still you. I passed out after that. I don't know how you got us out of there but I know you saved us, Aiko. How can I be afraid?"\nI shrug, still feeling unconvinced. How could he see what I'd done- beg me not to murder a man in front of him- and not be at least disgusted by me?\n"You're just so quiet and not acting like yourself and... I don't know. I sound stupid."\n"No, Aiko. I just woke up and I'm trying to get my bearings. The way you were acting, I wasn't sure just how mad you still are at me."\n"I'm not mad at you at all!" I yell at him. Although, that outburst probably doesn't help my argument. "Why can't you see that? I can't be! I'm... I'm... I just want you to admit that you saw what I did to Jared. I want you to stop tiptoeing around it!"\n"I did see."\n"And you begged me to stop! You had to or I would've killed him! I wanted to kill him!"\n"I begged you in order to save you. I knew you'd regret it and would hate yourself. I didn't stop you because you were scaring me. I loved every second of watching you come into your own power. I loved seeing you shine. I always love seeing you shine."\nMy heart clenches. That can't be true. I saw his fear. I heard it. Is he really trying to convince me he's not afraid, or is he trying to convince himself?\n"You're lying. I don't know if it's to yourself or to me but-"\n"I'm not! I'm not afraid of you, Aiko," he says forcefully, taking my face in both of his enormous hands, "Look at me! I'm here! I'm here for you! I'm trying to tell you I love you and I want to be here and nowhere else!"\nMy heart feels like it's cracking. He's saying this now?\n"But-"\n"You're the one who's afraid, Aiko. You're afraid of yourself and your power! You're afraid of hurting people you love. I understand that fear and it's not unreasonable. You can hurt people."\nMy heart sinks at his words and I look away in shame.\n"I won't leave you, though. You can learn to control it. You're strong and you're smart and you're brave. I'm crazy about you. I'll do anything to help you just... please," I look back into his soft, golden eyes and can't bring myself to look away from his sorrowful expression, "please don't push me away. You're the only thing I want. I would withstand your power a thousand times over just to kiss you one more time."\n"Taishiro..." my chest aches. I want him too. I'm crazy about him too. But it's so hard to believe him. How can he not be afraid of me? Look at me! Look at everything he's ever been through for me! Look at everything I've done to him myself!\nHe leans further down to me and warmth flows from my heart.\nI want this so badly, it's like my whole life has come down to this moment. I want him to touch me, to kiss me, to love me. And yet, I want to push him away and free him from shackling himself to whatever it is I am.\nHis eyes search mine- so sure, so honest- waiting for permission.\nCan't I just have this one thing? This one good thing in my life? I want to be in love with him and be happy. Just let me have this one thing...\nI tilt my head up to him, leaning in closer, eyes closing.\nBut the moment they do, I see him there, on that rug. How fragile he was; how he suffered that way for me; how he begged me not to kill Jared.\nI pull away quickly, giving him a small push to get him further from me.\nWhat am I thinking? I could've killed him! I could've drained him right here and had to watch him die in my arms. He's still recovering and I just tried to kiss him!\n"Aiko?" he asks, confusion and hurt warring in his tone and he tries to move toward me again, reaching out toward my face.\n"Don't!" I warn harshly, pulling away, my tail snapping, "Don't come near me! I don't want to hurt you! I can't see you like that again!"\n"Aiko..." his voice is soft, practically a whisper. His face is sympathetic. "You won't-"\n"I will!"\nI know I will. I'll take too much. He won't even be able to fight me.\nAnd now I know the truth of his words. He was right. I was wrong. He's truly not afraid of me and he never has been. I'm afraid of me. I know what I can do now and I can barely control it.\n"Please go. Please don't let me hurt you. I can't..."\nA whining cry comes from my throat and I cover my eyes with my hands, leaning against the cushions for support as tears flood my vision.\nTaishiro curses under his breath, something I almost never hear from him.\n"Aiko," he says, sounding like he's choking, "I can't leave you like this. I'm not afraid of you! I won't make you do anything if you don't want to but please don't tell me to leave!"\n"You have to! You have to get away from me!"\n"I can't! Not when you're like this! I can't just leave you alone!"\n"You have to! Please!"\n"I can't!"\nA knock comes at the door, startling us both and we fall quiet.\n"Aiko-chan?" Whitney's muffled voice comes through the door. She sounds timid. She probably heard us arguing.\n"Just a second!" I call, trying to keep my voice as even as possible and hastily wiping at the tears on my face. Then I turn back to Taishiro, who's wearing an agonized expression that cuts me to my core. I never wanted to see that look on his face. I never wanted to be the cause of it. All I've done is drag him down.\n"Someone is here. Can you go now?"\nHis brows turn upward in surprise and yet more hurt.\nFuck, I'm such a cold-hearted bitch. I'm the same as I ever was. I haven't changed at all. He deserves someone so fucking much better.\n"Yeah," he breathes out, finally moving away from me and standing to head toward the door.\nIt hurts so bad to see his back turned to me, walking away toward a better life than one I could give him. I want to call him back. I want him to hold me like he always did. But that image of him in that study refuses to leave my mind. If I did that to him; if I killed him...\nIt's enough to keep me from stopping him as he opens the door to Whitney standing in the hall and her eyes widen in surprise.\n"Oh uh... Hi, Fat Gum-senpai, I didn't know you were here," she greets him courteously.\n"It's fine," he says kindly, "I'm leaving now."\nShe blinks at him and opens her mouth, just to shut it again. She's not sure what to say but I'm sure she can tell she's walked into something very tense and is probably regretting it.\nTaishiro looks back at me and I quickly look away from him, not wanting to see what I know is in his eyes. It's hard and it hurts like a bitch, but this is right. Isn't it?\nThen he's gone, out of my doorway and walking down the hall. The best man I've ever known. The possible love of my life.\nI hate myself.\n

Chapter 18:\nI feel awkward after Taishiro leaves. Of course, Whitney also brought lunch. I recall now that I was meant to have lunch with her but I just kinda forgot about her when Taishiro showed up. It was like one second, I knew she was supposed to be the one visiting and the next, she didn't exist in my mind. His presence does that to me.\nNow I just sit and watch her eat as we sit at my table.\nShe's come, on behalf of Tomoyo, to try and convince me to start booking jobs again.\nShe's been assigned to stay undercover until the victims of the trafficking ring can be traced. Jared hadn't stored any records of the girls he'd kidnapped in the apartment he'd kept me at so they're hoping he'll end up giving up the information after being interrogated for long enough (if he ever wakes up). I honestly don't know if we'll ever find them, though.\nAt the very least, Whitney's staying in the modelling business a little longer and I'm pleased about that despite the somber circumstances.\nShe never says anything to me about Fat being here. She probably has a million questions but doesn't ask a single one. Thank All Might the girl can read the room.\nWe sit and converse until late in the afternoon. After a while, I'm starting to think she doesn't want to leave.\nI understand her concern but I'm also struggling to keep even a lukewarm expression on my face. I need to be alone. I need to process... or just dissociate. Whichever ends in me going back to sleep again for a long while.\n"Fine," I tell her finally, "Tell Tomoyo to book one shoot for me next week. Just. One. If she books me for more, I won't show up."\nA bright look of excitement crosses her face then. "Really?"\n"Yeah," I grumble, "Whatever gets her off my back."\n"Well... who's gonna take you?" she wonders, toying with her hair as though she's actually going to slip such an obvious question by me.\nTo be honest, I hadn't thought about it but now I'm pretty sure I should. There's no way I can ask Fat to take me.Who knows if he'll even be strong enough to return to hero work by then, not to mention the fight we just had.\n"I guess... Suneater? I'll have to ask him."\nAt the name, I can practically see non-existent cat ears perk up on the girl's head.\n"Well that's good. I mean- I'm okay with that...."\n"Yeah, I'm sure you are," I say with a playful roll of my eyes as her face turns red.\nShe still seems unwilling to leave but is unable to prolong her visit any further. Only a few scant minutes after I've agreed to this photoshoot, I've finally gotten her out my door.\nI'm able to sit back on my couch now and peel this mask of okayness off of my face.\nA whiny meow reaches my ears and I see Bento hopping up on my couch, nudging his way up under my hand for pets.\n"You little shit," I say, a tired smile coming to my face as I scratch behind his ears, "You didn't even come out to see your daddy. What were you doing? Sleeping on the windowsill again?"\nHis round, yellow eyes blink slowly at me, then he opens his mouth wide for a yawn. That's as much of an admission of guilt as I've ever seen.\n"It's okay," I whisper to him secretively, "I need you for a little longer anyway."\nBento only purrs louder.\n--\nI thought that how I felt before was awful. Now that I'm unable to blame anyone but myself for my unhappiness, it seems to have only increased exponentially.\nMy days slog on as I swing back and forth between believing I made the right choice and just wanting Fat to be here so badly that nothing else matters. Every time Tamaki knocks on my door to take me shopping, to my counseling session or, on this day, my photoshoot, I open the door wondering if it's Fat Gum who'll greet me. And then I'm surprised and annoyed at myself for even getting disappointed. Every. Single. Time.\nThere are moments that I'm inches from calling him to come pick up Bento just for the chance to see him again. But if he did come, I'd probably end up just kicking him out again. Or maybe I would apologize. Or maybe I would just fall into his arms and cry. Then, when I think of how stupid doing any of those things would be and how badly I'd be torturing myself if I were to ask him over, I put my phone back down.\n"Thanks for coming with me... again," I say to Suneater as we make our way onto the set of the photoshoot Tomoyo booked for me.\nAfter agreeing so readily to Whitney's request, I found myself actually dreading the appointment. Something about putting on lingerie and posing for a camera doesn't feel empowering anymore. It makes me feel exposed and anxious.\n"It's not a problem. Just... try not to push yourself," he suggests to me, suddenly having become some kind of doting brother figure. It's sweet.\n"Aiko, you made it! You're looking..." Tomoyo approaches, making a pained face as she tries to come up with kind words for how awful I look.\n"Yeah. Thanks." I don't even have it in me to glower at her.\n"Aiko-chan! I'm so excited to work on the same set as you!" Whitney prances up to us dressed in a relatively conservative sleepwear duo. It's a silky cami and loose-fitting shorts.\nIs this the kind of attire we'll be wearing?\nMy eyes meet Tomoyo's and she shrugs. "I figured I'd ease you back into it. Let you get comfortable again. Unless you don't like this-"\n"I'll do it. It's fine."\nRelief floods me. I didn't want to be posing in lingerie. The booking said "sleepwear shoot." Plenty of the ones I've done in the past have had the same description and I'd still ended up in nothing but a see-through babydoll and a thong.\nThat never bothered me before. But that was then.\nI've never really done a non-sexy sleepwear shoot but I'm actually beyond pleased that this is what she booked. Once again, Tomoyo is showing me just how much she cares, even if she struggles with actually saying it.\n"Well let's get you to hair and makeup," she tugs on me a little hastily.\nAs I leave with her, I glance behind me to see Whitney striking up a conversation with Tamaki. She nods her head toward me and I realize she's asking him something about me, though I can't hear now that we've stepped further away.\nBut his usually closed-off demeanor opens up as he looks at her and responds to what she's asked.\nGood job, girl. You're getting it.\nBy the time I'm made up and dressed in a rather comfortable pajama set, Whitney's turn is up in front of the camera and I find Tamaki on the edge of the set, watching her work.\nIt's a familiar scene as I sidle up to him, gently placing a hand on his shoulder.\n"Seems like you two are friendlier than you thought," I smirk knowingly at him.\nHis cheeks are dusted with pink as he responds, "M-maybe."\n"I told you she's not uncomfortable around you."\nHe doesn't respond as he tugs at the edge of his hood.\n"Maybe you should invite her to the... the festival..."\n"It's not that simple, I..."\nHe's still talking but my mind stops taking in anything going on around me.\nThe festival!\nHorror chills my veins as I realize that I forgot about the cultural festival! Oh god! I agreed to going to that before Fat even woke up!\nIs he going to be there? He said before that he's not even an alumnus of UA so he probably wouldn't, right? But he is a pro-hero and he's mentoring two students and is employing a former student. Are pro-heroes often invited to these things? Would he even go if he knew I'm going to be there? Does he know I'm going to be there? Maybe I should back out. But I already said yes! I can't do that to Red and Steel! Fuckfuckfuck!\n"Aiko-nee?" Tamaki taps me and I blink a couple times, coming back to myself.\n"Oh. Sorry, I kinda spaced out there. I guess you'll have to invite her to dinner instead then." I give a shrug.\nTamaki's eyes get wider than I've ever seen them and his face turns a deep scarlet shade.\n"That's not- I'm not- She won't-"\nHe's having a hard time putting words together now so thankfully he's too distracted to notice my internal struggle.\nIf Fat is really there, what do I do? I'm not ready...\nBut I can't avoid him forever. I have to give Bento back some time.\nAm I an adult or not? I should be able to handle seeing him! This is supposed to be about supporting my friends! I can do it for their sake!\nBesides, it's no guarantee he'll be there. This is just more unnecessary anxiety gnawing at me.\n"You're up, Aiko-chan!" Whitney says as she comes up to us, just finished with her shoot.\nI'm startled at her sudden exclamation but not from the sound. My nerves are taking hold of me.\nIt's my turn... I'm getting in front of a camera again... I'm letting someone take pictures of me...\nMy eyes sweep the room looking for a bright yellow jacket that I know isn't here. I wish he were though. I wish I could look into those warm golden eyes and be soothed.\nI miss you...\nI push away the thought, taking measured steps up toward the set, my tail swishing languidly.\nI can do this myself.\n--\nToday is the day. I'm going to the UA cultural festival!\nDespite my nerves and all of my worries, my overarching emotion is actually excitement. A hero school! The best hero school! I haven't been to a cultural festival since my own in high school!\nI get up ridiculously early to start getting ready. It takes almost an hour just to find the right outfit. Then, I apply makeup for the first time in who knows how long. I'd had it done for me on the set of the shoot but there's something somewhat cathartic about picking out my own shades and creating a look that's all my own.\nIn the end, I settle on a high-waisted plaid skirt with a black long-sleeved top that keeps the neckline conservative (I'm trying to make a good impression after all). Ankle-high boots finish off the look and I head out after eating breakfast.\nAs I ride the train with Tamaki dressed in civilian clothes ( a rare sight), I clip my visitor's badge to the outside of my purse so I can easily show it at the gates.\nWhy am I practically giddy with anticipation? Do I really want to see the school this badly?\nMy wings won't settle as they rustle ceaselessly behind me when we finally make it through the entrance and I get my first glimpse at the U-shaped main building. There are student-run stalls and performances all over the place.\nEverything looks so lively! I'm suddenly hit again with intense gratefulness for Red and Steel inviting me. I could've still been moping around at home and wishing I were feeling better. Being here is actually putting me at ease. Something about being around so many capable people, all of whom are laid back enough to enjoy themselves, helps me feel more comfortable myself.\n"Ai-senpai!" Red screams from across the courtyard we're crossing, waving as he runs and causing most everyone to stare at him. What a goof, he doesn't even care.\nI wave back at him and his grin widens.\n"Ai-senpai," he says again as he reaches us, "Come check out my classroom! We made a tea shop so you can come and sit for a while if you want!"\nHe's practically bouncing with energy.\nI look over at Tamaki who's got his phone out, scrolling through something, an intense look of interest on his face. I can't tell if that's a good look or a bad one.\n"Tamaki-kun?" I ask and he looks up, embarrassed.\n"I actually... have to go," Tamaki says, his expression regretful, "Something kinda important came up. I'm so sorry."\nI'm momentarily stunned and hugely disappointed all at once. We came all this way! I promised I would visit with Red and Steel!\n"Is something wrong? Is everything okay?" I ask him, suddenly anxious.\nBut his expression is calm, unbothered. If he's not anxious about whatever he has to deal with, maybe I shouldn't be either.\n"Everything's fine," he replies, "You can stay if you want. This campus is one of the safest places to be in the world. But I can take you back if you really want."\n"I can take you!" Red offers excitedly, "I'll show you around! Steel has a play his class is putting on in an hour and we can go watch it if you want!"\nI look back and forth at the two boys for a second, really wondering if it's okay I burden them this way. I really want to be here, though.\n"I'm okay with that," I turn to Tamaki, "Go take care of whatever you need to. I'll be okay."\nTamaki looks like he might ask me another question- probably "are you sure"- but decides against it and just nods his affirmation.\nAfter bidding him farewell, I take Red up on his offer to escort me to his classroom.\nSome of the kids milling about stare at us as we pass and, with the way Red's walking so proudly, I can tell the people probably think him lucky to have been able to convince me to come as his guest.\nThe stairs, then hallway, leading to the room is plastered with posters and decorations advertising their little cafe and when we enter, I'm immediately greeted with a "Welcome to our cafe!" by a short-haired brunette and a girl I can only describe as pink.\n"Oh, thanks," I offer up in response.\nUpon looking around the room, I can see that desks have been shoved together and covered with a tablecloth to make tables. There's a curtain blocking off part of the room where I hear people rustling around, probably cooking and making drinks. Everything is decorated beautifully, somewhat reminding me of a French cafe. I can't even imagine how the class managed the budget for this.\n"Sit anywhere you want! It's so cool to meet you, Fujisaki-san. Kirishima's been so excited to have you come!" The brunette says with a smile.\nKirishima? I glance over at the red-haired boy next to me. That's his family name? I wonder what his given name is. I should've asked.\nTaking a seat at the nearest table, I'm amazed at how quickly they attend to me, handing me a menu and setting down silverware.\n"It took you long enough to get back here, shitty hair!" a loud, gruff voice nearly shouts at my companion and my eyes swing around to meet a very angry-looking ash blonde boy with disheveled clothing, "Did you have to go to Africa to get her?"\n"Shitty-hair?" That's kinda rude...\nBut Kirishima thinks nothing of it. "Sorry, dude," he says with a guilty smile, "It was crowded out there."\nThe rude kid's crimson eyes turn to me and I'm torn at what to think of him. He's certainly a handsome boy but his brow seems indefinitely wrinkled with irritation.\n"Ai-senpai, this is my best friend," the blonde boy tsks at that, "Bakugo. And these two you met already are Ashido and Uraraka."\nThe two girls wave and I timidly smile back at them.\n"I thought you said she was a model," Bakugo observes, "She's pretty plain-looking to me."\n"Pretty plain-looking"?! My tail twitches in annoyance. No, my mind's made up. Fuck this kid.\n"Bakugo!" almost every girl in the room turns a hateful eye on him.\n"She's gorgeous! What are you talking about?!" Ashido scolds him.\n"Just look at this perfect eyeliner! And your cheekbones are so high! Ugh I'm so jealous!" another girl approaches, taller than most of them with long, dark hair and a perfume on her that instantly tells me she's got lots and lots of money.\n"Why do you even call her that?" the brat asks, "She's not even your senpai, shitty hair. It doesn't make sense."\nI don't want to agree with the Bakubrat but he may have the teeniest tiniest point. Why do any of them call me that anymore?\nKirishima just shrugs with a flash of his sharp grin.\n"She was. For that commercial I was in. You remember."\n"Oh yeah! That's where I've seen her before!" a kind-looking, freckled boy with green messy hair says, "She was in that commercial with you!"\nKirishima nods, getting a rather smug expression on his face.\n"That's right. And she was super helpful on the set. Thus, Ai-senpai," he concludes. Then adds, "Also it rhymes and that's cool so..."\nThe kids all give each other a knowing look. I can feel what they're conveying to each other as well. That's the real reason he's still calling me senpai. Nothing so deep as nostalgia and respect. It just... rhymes...\nSighing, I place a hand on his spiky red hair, mussing it a bit. "Thanks, Red. You're sweet"\nHis cheeks get pinker as he rubs the back of his head.\n"So a dumb reason then," Bakugo concludes and I set my jaw at the insult.\n"You're kinda a brat," I snap at him, "and rude. Do you not know how to be respectful to anyone?"\nThe others who were just fawning over me step back then, blinking at my outburst and seeming to expect something from Bakugo in response.\n"And you deserve respect, why?" his eyes look down at me in my seat, trying to intimidate me.\n"Because I'm your elder, for one. But also because it's common courtesy. And you call your best friend 'shitty-hair'?"\n"Uh, well, uh," Kirishima doesn't seem to have much to say about it, "It's kinda always been that way so-"\n"Yeah so?" he snaps back at me.\n"So," I abruptly stand, shifting the table as I do, but now my height is greater than his and I'm the one looking down as my wings flare out, "learn some fucking manners, kid."\nHe's not cowed by me, even looking up at me now. I'll give him kudos for that.\n"Or what? You're just a model, supposedly. What are you gonna do, walk at me aggressively?"\nHeat comes to my cheeks and I feel my blood pressure rising every second I look at this kid. I flex my fingers, feeling the need to do something with them. But I'm not gonna slap a teenager, I can't do that, even if it is so soooo tempting. Why is a kind and caring person like Kirishima friends with this little shit?\n"KRISHIMAAAAA!" a squeaky voice squeals and I look around for what has to be a young child with a voice like that.\nInstead a very short, very grapey-haired looking boy sprints over to us, breathing heavily.\n"Kirishima! You didn't tell us that SHE'S A LINGERIE MODEL!" he shrieks, getting a positively disgusting look on his face.\n"She what?!" others look over at us now too and I sit back down, my temper cooled and now feeling the pressure of the eyes on me.\n"Why would I tell you that? It doesn't-"\n"KIRISHIMA!" the nasty little boy screeches again, "Does it seem like it wouldn't matter to me?!"\nEveryone just rolls their eyes.\n"She was in the most recent swimsuit edition of Sports Monthly!" grape kid whips out a magazine from somewhere. Does he just carry around swimsuit magazines? "LOOK!"\nHe begins to rifle through the pages but Bakugo snatches it away from him, crushing it in one hand, and it begins to burn.\n"No one wants to see that, Mineta," he growls in a very dangerous tone.\nMy brow ticks down at that. I can't tell if he was just trying to defend me or be insulting. This kid is a ball of mysteries.\n"THAT WAS A SPECIAL EDITION, YOU-"\nMineta doesn't finish his sentence before Bakugo's fist opens and the ashes of his magazine fall away, bright crimson eyes issuing a warning.\n"Ya know what? It's fine. I don't need that one." The boy backs away slowly, leaving us alone.\n"Let's give her some time to look over the menu and order, guys," Kirishima suggests, motioning everyone away from my table and I'm so thankful for his understanding. Things were starting to get overwhelming.\nI send a glare over my shoulder to the little blonde jerk just to get the message through that I do not like him and do not approve of him but I have exactly zero of his attention anymore.\n"Come on, Bakugo, let's get some orders ready for the other customers," the brunette girl, Uraraka, prods him in the back.\n"Get off me!" he shouts at her but his cheeks are tinged with pink and doesn't seem to be struggling too hard.\nCome on! This kid gets more and more confusing every second! Now I have to be less offended at him calling me plain. He likes this actually sweet, round girl who's the opposite of him in every way? Nothing makes sense in the world anymore!\nThough, I guess, it's fair to say that about Fat and myself as well. How can he love me? He's so good and wholesome and I'm... Well, I'm me. I doubt "wholesome" would ever be a word used to describe me.\nThey all back off and let me order a latte, then a parfait. It was the healthiest item on the menu and I didn't want to seem unsupportive by not ordering food.\nI finish up and stand, thankful to not see either the perverted grape kid or the Bakubrat anywhere as I ready myself to leave.\n"Here," Kirishima says helpfully, coming up beside me again as he sees me getting up, "I'll take you down to the gym where Steel's play is."\nSomething in me is feeling more energetic though now. I feel independent, like I can do this much on my own at least. Tamaki's assurance that I'm safe here, that this is one of the safest places in the world, comes back to me. I want to be able to do things for myself. I can do this much at least.\n"Actually, I... could go on my own," I tell him, "I'd like to try."\nHis responding smile is warm and unoffended, "Okay, Ai-senpai. Take care! I'll come find you after and I'll take you home whenever you want."\n"Thank you... Kirishima-kun," I say, the name sounding odd on my tongue after calling him Red for so long.\n"Eijiro is fine. Or Ei. Or whatever you want," he grins widely.\n"Oh," happiness lights in my chest at the permission granted, "Okay, Ei-kun."\nHe rubs at his nose with embarrassment then turns back to his classroom.\n"Have fun, Ai-senpai!" then shuts the door and leaves me alone in the hall amongst a few people walking around looking at the decorations.\nAfter what feels like hours- but is probably closer to fifteen minutes- I'm lost and confused and regretting my choice to be out here on my own. This campus is so huge! Why did I ever think I was going to find this place without help? I'm gonna miss the play.\nDisappointment and anger at myself bubbles up inside of me as I make my way back toward the main building, looking for a way back inside to find Eijiro again but a familiar figure comes into my line of sight as I turn the corner to the courtyard.\nIt's practically impossible to miss the huge man towering over every other student and teacher amongst the crowd, even from a distance. He's finally back to his normal size and a small spark of happiness flickers in me at that. He's safe again. He's healthy.\nI know his eyes have landed on me as well when I see him halt for a second, looking around, unsure what he should do. I'm feeling the same way honestly. I'm standing almost a head taller than most people myself and I have no way of hiding. What could I do? Duck into the crowd like a child?\nGoddammit.\nI knew he might be here but I thought I could handle it. Based on how quickly my heart is beating now, I can safely say I was lying to myself about that. What was I thinking?\nDo I turn and run very obviously away from him? No! I have to see the play! I can't just run at the sight of him! How childish is that?\nHe's getting closer, the bustling crowd pushing us along the pathway toward each other.\nI can see in his eyes that he's uncomfortable, he doesn't know how I'll react. I honestly don't know how my face looks right now but I hope it's not completely telling how my insides feel like they're being torn to shreds.\nWhen we finally meet, we stop in front of each other, forcing the crowds to move around us.\nFat is the first to speak.\n"Hi."\nIt's only been a week since I've heard it but his voice washes over me like a cool stream on a scorching day. Hurts that I've only barely been able to ignore easily mend under his honey-colored gaze.\n"Hi," I say in response, trying to look anywhere but at him, knowing that he's only got his eyes on me.\nWe're quiet for an awkward stretch of time, unsure what more we could or should say.\n"I um... Red and Steel invited me a while ago so I..."\nWhy am I speaking like this? I'm not a shy person! Where the fuck are my words?!\n"I'm glad you came. You look like you're doing well," he says courteously.\nI swallow thickly, my heart racing.\n"You too, Fat-kun. I'm glad that you're back to normal."\nAgain, more silence.\nThis isn't us. I should be teasing him and he should be laughing at me. I should be taking his arm and pretending I don't notice how warm and fuzzy that makes me feel. He should be touching my hair and pretending he doesn't know how it feels to pull it.\n"Steel's class is putting on a play in a few minutes... if you're interested in going."\nI am. But is he going too?\n"Yeah, I was looking for the gym," I tell him, still looking away. I am slowly turning into Tamaki I guess.\n"I could... show you... if you want."\nI look up at him finally and he's wearing a warm smile. Not really his usual grin but still a welcome sight to me.\nThere's no harm in him showing me the way, right? We're in a public space and I told myself I'd be a mature adult if I ran into him. Turning down his courteous offer just because we're not... whatever we were anymore isn't being a mature adult.\n"Okay." Is the only answer I give and his smile gets a little wider.\n"This way," he heads back toward the direction I came and I follow behind as we reenter the flow of the crowd.\nHe leads me right to the entrance to the gym which I realize I probably passed a few times already.\n"I thought you went to Shiketsu. How do you know this place so well?" I ask as my curiosity gets the best of me.\n"I don't know it all that well," he chuckles, rubbing at the back of his hooded head, "I've just been here a few times before so I know where some buildings are."\nIt looks like the show is going to start any minute now. The lights are already dimmed when we walk inside and it looks like most of the seats are full.\nThere are a few seats at the very front and some to the far sides but Fat and I choose to stand at the back. It's the polite thing to do considering we'd probably block anyone's view behind us.\nSo I lean against the back wall and Fat stands next to me as the play begins. Red told me about the play Steel's class put on last year. It was a bit of a mess according to him but this year seems far more interesting. It's a Kabuki play with lots of dancing and drama and singing.\nOne of the boys in his class seems a bit full of himself, as though he were the hero of the play, but he's only a side character and his singing and dancing is average at best. It's entertaining to watch him try, though.\nSteel doesn't have a lead role but he's still got plenty of lines and plays a big part in the production.\nWhen he enters the stage in full makeup and costume, I can't keep myself from beaming with pride.\n"It's him!" I whisper to Fat, pulling on his jacket excitedly, "He looks so manly!"\nFat doesn't respond but allows me to pull on him until I realize that I shouldn't be doing this. I shouldn't be touching him with familiarity anymore. I have no right.\nI pull away quickly with a soft "Sorry" and continue watching the play, arms folded to keep from any further outbursts.\nIt is a pretty decent production and I do enjoy taking part in traditional Japanese culture now and then, but Fat's presence next to me is never far from my notice. He never really looks at me and he never tries to get closer to me but his posture is open, unlike mine. He's not eating his usual takoyaki like I would expect so his hands are free just resting at his sides; just waiting for me to take his arm...\nI have to stop doing this to myself. If I'm going to be around him at all again, I have to stop thinking this way.\nI keep my eyes firmly plastered on the stage for the rest of the play and grip the fabric of my top to keep my hands from doing anything else.\nWhen it's through, Steel comes out to see us.\n"What did you think?" Clearly pleased to see Fat and I standing next to each other.\n"It was fun!" I tell him happily, "I really enjoyed it!"\n"Me too," Fat echoes my sentiments.\n"Definitely better than last year," Red says, coming up to us from where he'd apparently been sitting with a group of friends in the audience.\n"Last years was just as good!" Steel argues immediately.\n"Ahhh," Red makes a yikes face, baring all his sharp teeth\nThey start bickering back and forth, as they often do with each other and completely forget Fat's and my existence.\n"Should we go?" Fat asks, turning to me and my nerves return as strong as ever.\nWe? Are we hanging out now?\n"I uh-"\n"Have you seen the rest of the festival? Do you want to go check out the stands?"\nI haven't. I went straight to Red's classroom to visit him and see his class' tea shop.\nI'm at this dilemma again. Do I turn him down to keep the heartbreak to a minimum or do I accept because I need to not act like a heartbroken teenager? What's the correct choice? Why is this so difficult? Why does he even want to be around me after everything that happened last time?\n"Yeah. Sure," I answer, picking at my nails to keep my hands busy. I suddenly don't know what to do with my hands?\nThe boys have fallen silent when we turn back to tell them of our plans. The grins they wear don't just seem grateful to me. They look pleased for some reason. Like everything seems to be going their way.\nFat leads me out of the building and back onto the walkways that are lined by food stands.\nI immediately gravitate toward a takoyaki stand and arch a brow at him in question, "Want some?"\n"Is that even a question?" he says before ordering a box for himself.\nI feel more comfortable now that his hands are busy popping batter balls in his mouth and things just feel more natural, the way they used to be, when we're back to our normal behaviors.\nWe walk around for a little bit and I stop at a goldfish scooping game. I used to love to play that at festivals when I was a child and we would have a fish tank that was always populated with five or more goldfish at any one time.\nI don't have a tank now but maybe I could buy one on the way home...\nOffering the kid running the stand my money, he gives me poi and a cup and I try my luck.\nWhen I think I have a fish cornered, I go for the scoop-up and I think I have it! But the moment it starts to struggle as it breaks from the water, the tissue tears and it plops back into water much to my chagrin.\nI hear a snort behind me and I turn to look up at Fat but he's just casually munching away at his snack, same as he ever does. When he sees me turn to him, he gives me a little smile and I turn away again.\nI try again, cornering a fish more quickly this time and hurriedly scoop it up just for the same thing to happen.\nI give a little huff of annoyance and the snort comes again.\n"Are you-" I turn to Fat once more and he's just smiling, eating his takoyaki without a care in the world.\nI glare at him. He's laughing at me. I can feel it.\n"One more time," I tell the kid and go for another fish.\nThis time, one swims perfectly into my poi and I neatly scoop it up, tipping it into the cup.\n"Ha!" I cheer, handing the cup off to the kid so he can put it in a bag, then turning to Fat, "I did it!"\n"You did," he agrees, a secretive smirk on his face.\n"You were laughing at me!" I accuse, poking him in the cheek, "You thought I couldn't!"\n"I never said that," he corrects, not denying the first half of my accusation.\n"You were thinking it!" I poke his cheek again and he chuckles, playfully batting my hand away.\n"But I didn't say it."\nI give him a bemused face, but can't resist returning his infectious grin as I turn away from him to collect my prize.\nMy chest warms and my wings flutter. This is us. This is how we are. This is how I like to be when I'm with him.\n"I-I can't do it!" a little girl cries, sounding close to tears. She's kneeling next to the tub of fish with broken poi surrounding her.\nThere's a child here? But isn't this a closed off event?\n"You won't always be able to get one," the blonde boy next to her says- I assume- her brother, "But we can try again some other time. Let's go look at some other stands."\n"I... guess..." she sniffles, downtrodden.\nShe turns away from the stand, I see her wet crimson eyes and my heart shatters. I remember what it was like to go home empty-handed from these stalls; how disappointed I was.\nI look back at Fat briefly and he sees the softness in my eyes and nudges me forward with a nod.\n"Hi," I say, kneeling in front of the small girl as she wipes her unshed tears away, "were you wanting a fish? Cuz I have one and I don't really have a home for him so... if you really want, you can have mine."\nA single horn protrudes from the side of her forehead that she seems to be trying to cover with her long silver hair. She seems shy.\n"Really?" she asks, looking at me through her lashes, "You'll let me have him?"\n"I'd love for you to have him," I assure her.\nAnd just like that, a wide smile spreads across her face.\n"You worked pretty hard for that fish. You sure?" A sullen-faced man standing next to them asks- Hey! I recognize that guy!\n"I've met you before," I say dumbly, not even answering his question.\n"Yes, at my birthday party," Fat reminds me, then addresses the group before us, "How ya been, Eraserhead, Eri, Togata?"\n"We've been good, Fat!" the blonde boy responds as I hold out the bag with my goldfish in it to the little girl, Eri.\nShe takes it with a bright smile. "Thank you!"\n"How have you been? I heard about what happened." It sounds like he wants to say more but thinks better of it.\n"Better now," Fat says, with a glance in my direction, "I'm sorry if I made any of you worry."\nEraserhead shakes his head, "That doesn't matter now. As long as you're okay. Just... no more getting yourself in a bind like that, yeah?"\n"Yeah, ok," Fat agrees sheepishly.\nIt's pretty amusing seeing him get scolded by someone who isn't me.\n"Tamaki's told me a lot about you, Fujisaki-san," the bright boy says to me with a thousand watt grin.\n"Um... You're..." I rifle through people in my mind who Tamaki's talked about. He's not close to many people. Then I land on someone he's mentioned only once or twice thus far; someone this boy fits the description of perfectly. Bright, like the sun. "You're his best friend!"\nTogata's dark blue eyes appear to lighten a couple shades as his demeanor becomes even more excited. Tamaki is actually friends with this boy? It's no wonder why he sees him the way he does.\nIt must be quite a sight seeing those two together.\n"Thanks for watching out for him. I don't really get to see him as often as I want to now that we're both full-time heroes but I'm really grateful all of you are treating him so well," Togata says with a small bow.\nI have to admit, this guy is much better best friend material than Eijiro's...\nI smile genuinely at him. "He's been a life-saver these past weeks. He's taken care of me way more than I have of him."\nTogata seems pleased to hear that, "I'm so glad you feel that way about him. He's way more awesome than he thinks he is."\n"Well, we have a few more things to go check out before we head home, right Eri?" Eraserhead butts in as he lays a hand on Eri's head.\n"Yeah!" she cries excitedly.\n"Say thanks for the fish."\n"Thank you," she bows deeply, the fish still held close to her, "I'll take good care of him!"\nAnd with that, they're gone and we're on our own again.\nWe continue on to look at more stands and things just seem more comfortable between us now.\nKnowing that I can still joke with Fat- that we can still have fun together- makes me feel at least a little less heartbroken.\nI may not be able to have him. We may have to move on from each other. But we can still have this. We can still be okay. Right?\nFat finishes his takoyaki and throws the box into a trashcan as we stop at a performance another class is putting on at a stage outside. They're playing some really upbeat music that's sorta pop, sorta rock. I like it.\nThey're drawing quite a crowd and, before I know it, we're surrounded by people that are pushing in from all sides to get a better look at the stage.\nA situation like this would usually make me anxious but right now I feel calm, safe with Fat here.\nI've forgotten all too late that I need to keep my arms crossed and I haven't noticed how close the crowd has pushed us together until I feel his hand brush mine for the barest second.\nI'm startled and my heart jumps to my throat but he pulls it away quickly, saying nothing.\nI guess we'll just pretend neither of us noticed. I'm okay with that. It would've made me feel more awkward if he'd tried to apologize.\nI dont cross my arms, though. I don't know why. I don't know what I'm thinking just leaving my hands at my sides for him to brush against again. I'm just creating a disaster for myself.\nAnd, sure enough, his hand brushes mine again, sending another jolt of electricity through me, my heart picking up speed when he doesn't pull away as quickly.\nI should cross my arms. I should force this situation to stop happening. I should- I should...\nA large finger touches my hand once more. Just one. Just lightly so I can barely feel it but I do. I feel it as though it were a live wire, shocking me to life.\nMy heart races, threatening to leap out of my chest but all I can do is just stand there, hardly moving, hardly breathing, the show in front of me forgotten.\nMy fingers move toward his almost instinctively. Just barely, enough to grant slightly more contact. But I know it's enough to embolden him a bit more when I feel his fingertips touch mine, still testing the waters, and I can't stop myself from curling my fingers closer to his in return.\nI feel warm. I feel scared. I feel overjoyed. I feel like I'm dying.\nHe finally takes my hand in his fully and I don't stop him. I don't pull away. I don't want to. I want this. I want him. I want these moments and these gentle touches.\nI don't want to be friends, I realize with a painful pang in my chest. It hurts so badly even in our happiest moments when we laugh the loudest. I want to be in love with this man and I want him to be in love with me. I would give anything for us to make that possible.\nTears form at my lower lids as I keep my eyes trained on the stage, blinking them back.\nHis thumb slowly draws circles on the back of my hand, soothing me and sending waves of warmth throughout my body.\nAnd now I come to accept what I've known all along.\nI didn't think I might see him here. I knew I would. I dressed myself up for him. I put on makeup and did my hair to look nice for him. I wanted to see him. I always want to see him.\nI push myself closer to him, finally taking his arm and holding it to my chest like I've been wanting to do since the very moment I let it go the first time. I lean my head against him, letting his softness comfort me.\n"Aiko," I hear him say, speaking in a normal voice but it's barely audible over the music playing around us. He strokes my cheek with the back of his other hand and I glance up at him to find him already looking down at me, those bright amber eyes alight and shining.\nHe nods his head toward the main building, indicating we should leave this area behind.\nI follow without complaint, letting him lead me by the hand, not wanting to let go now I have it.\nWhen we've moved far enough away from the stage that we can hear properly again, he squeezes my hand slightly.\n"Let's go tell Red and Steel goodbye. They should be back at their classrooms by now. Then I'll take you home, okay?"\n"Okay," I reply, more than happy to get back home and figure this out or maybe just to sit be and held by him, revel in this bliss a little longer.\nThe hallways aren't as packed now that more people are down at the performance and milling around the stands. So I don't feel too indecent to be hanging into his arm the way I am.\nWe're taking the stairs up to the second floor when I just can't contain myself any longer.\n"I love you, Fat. I do. I'm so sorry for everything I'm just so-"\nHis lips are on mine so fast, I don't even realize what's happened until I feel our tongues meeting and intertwining. A taste emanates from him that is so delicious and beautiful, it makes my heart sing.\nThis is his love. This is what it feels like to be loved; what that flavor feels like on my tongue.\nI don't know if I could ever have my fill of that.\nHis kiss is so warm and soft and inviting. He's so gentle moving his mouth over mine as he strokes my cheek.\nI've kissed him so many times before. I've felt these lips on mine. I've smelled his scent, tasted his flavor. But, just as before in my hotel room, this feels new, like something just beginning to blossom.\nThere aren't any lies between us any longer. Everything is out in the open. Who we are, what we feel; it's almost like starting over.\nI sigh contentedly into his kiss, reaching a shaky hand up to loosen his hood.\nHis soft moan as I push my hands through his disheveled hair sends a jolt of electricity through me that starts a fire deep in my core.\nI pull his thick frame closer, delighting in the small whiff of his cinnamon scent I get and the savory flavor that's becoming more pronounced on his tongue.\nA kind of hunger I didn't know I've been suffering from radiates throughout my body and I try to pull him even closer.\nIt's been so long since I've had any physical affection and my touch-starved skin yearns to feel his hands on me. It's an ache I can't ignore now that he's here with me, his lips on mine.\nI take one of his hands from my cheek, not breaking our kiss, and slowly pull his glove off. I want to feel the warmth of his skin. I want to know he can feel mine.\nI'm still apprehensive about losing control. I'm still afraid I'll hurt him. But there's something about him like this- broad, bulky, strong- that makes me feel more secure.\nHis breath hitches when I put that hand at my hip and he pulls back from our kiss.\n"Are you sure? You're okay with me touching you?"\n"Yes," I whisper, nuzzling his cushy cheek, "I want you to."\nTo accentuate my point, I push his hand slightly under my top, letting his fingertips graze along the skin of my stomach.\nJust this small contact superheats my entire body, my thighs squeezing together when he lets out a shuddering breath. His cinnamon scent intensifies, as does my need to feel his hands on me.\nI let him go and pull his lips back to mine, reveling in that delicious taste once more. He has free reign over what he wants to do with my body now and my excitement grows as his fingers move along that small strip of skin.\nNow my hands go to the zipper tab of his jacket, pulling on it, easing it down.\nI remember how my hands shook the last time they did this, how I was suddenly embarrassed and anxious all at once. It's not hard to know why now. The further I pull the zipper, the more I want to reach into that jacket, run my hands across that broad chest, dig my fingers into those meaty shoulders.\nI can't believe I was ever afraid of this man. I can't believe I ever thought this most gentle of giants was intimidating. He's magnetic, exquisite. Not just a snack; an entire fucking feast.\nFat groans deeply when I drag my nails down his chest and his grip is much firmer when he takes hold of my hip again.\nHe's so much taller in this form, close to a foot taller than before. Our height difference makes it difficult for me to press my body against him like I want to. It makes me want to literally climb him, make him hold me up so I can feel his body flush with mine.\nWhen I lift my leg up to try, he chuckles, sending my wings into a fluttering fit.\nHe breaks our kiss once more.\n"You're so impatient, Ai-chan." The way he breathes my name into my ear is dripping with desire. "We're still in public, remember?"\nFuck, he's right. I take a step back, trying to give myself room to catch my breath. I forgot myself there for a second. It's been so long since I've been able to keep my hunger for energy separate from my hunger for sex that I didn't even realize how deprived I've truly been.\nI've never just had sex for the energy. I did it because I craved that too.\nIt's been over a month now and I'm still sated energy-wise, but lust-wise I'm starving like a wild animal.\n"Sorry," I murmur with growing shame, taking another step back and straightening my top out. At least no one happened upon us as far as I'm aware. That might've been awkward.\n"Nothing to be sorry for, honey," he says, his voice still deep, the scent he's giving off hardly softening at all. "I'll get you home soon."\nMy knees suddenly feel weak. There are so many unspoken promises in those words. The thought of going home with him, what he might do to me. A shiver runs through my tail as I watch him rearrange his clothing to be more presentable again and slides his glove back on. So much for just wanting him to hold me...\nI take his hand again and he leads me up to the second floor where classrooms for all of the second years are located. We head down the hall that I've seen once today already.\nAs I recall, none of the other classes on this floor are serving anything in their classroom which is why the hallway is decorated just to point us in the direction of 2-A.\nI can hear Red's classmates socializing (and that Bakugo kid biting someone's head off). All the other classrooms still seem to be empty on the way down the hall.\nWhen we reach 2-A, I'm unsure what I should do now. I should probably let him go, right? We haven't even discussed what we are or what our future plans are. Nothing has been solidified. We're just... in love with each other and holding hands...\nBut Fat doesn't give me time to pull back or hesitate. He slides open the door and we're greeted with the sounds of "Welcome!" from a few students.\n"Fat Gum!" some of them cheer. More than just Kirishima are familiar with him, it would seem.\n"Oh! It's you again! Kirishima's friend!" the green-haired boy acknowledges me as well then looks between Fat and I. "I didn't know you were Fat Gum's girlfriend."\n"YOU COULD'VE TOLD US!" the creepy little grape-headed kid screeches at Kirishima, practically in tears.\nBut he doesn't immediately respond. His eyes are on me, on Fat, on our intertwined hands. A grin spreads over his face.\n"Sorry," he finally says to some of the classmates prodding him, "I forgot to mention it. She's just Ai-senpai to me. Not 'Fat's Girlfriend.'"\nTamaki told me before that I'm loved by more than just himself and that each of the employees at the Fat Gum Agency sees me as a part of their family. I heard those words and I thought I understood what it meant. But seeing Kirishima's grin now- hearing him profess that I'm more to him than just a connection via Fat- it makes me truly see how wanted I am.\nMy heart is near bursting with joy. I love them too. I love all of them. Even if Fat really did reject me after everything, they would've still been here with me, they would've still loved me.\nI blink back tears that prick at the corner of my eyes as Fat greets more of the students and explains that he's taking me home.\n"Ooo home huh?" Kirishima says under his breath as he steps up next to me.\nI look over at him, my eyes wide with outrage, my cheeks inflamed with the truth of his words.\nHe wiggles his eyebrows up and down at me and I send him a scathing look.\n"Stop being a pervert!" I mutter back at him, though also not denying anything.\nHe just laughs, every one of his sharp teeth gleaming. "I'll see you back at work, Fat. Thank you guys for coming!"\n"Thank you for having us," Fat and I respond, almost in unison.\n"Tell Steel we said bye," Fat says in parting as we head out the door once more and he slides it shut behind us.\nWe make our way back down the hall, now devoid of people as the festival winds down.\nI press myself against Fat's arm again, still feeling like I'm floating on a cloud. This moment is so surreal. How is anyone allowed to be this happy?\nMy tail brushes at his thigh of its own accord, snaking around it possessively, and Fat lets out an affected puff of air.\n"Ai-chan," he says, his voice low again. Fuck do I ever like when he uses that tone on me. It tells me just how hot I'm really making him. "You can't do that to me."\nIt makes me giddy that I still affect him this way. There is a sweet middleness between how timid and unsure he was as my dear friend Fat Gum and how bold and carnal he was as my lover Taishiro. It's easy to see that he's both of those men now that he's not afraid to hide how he feels.\nI squeeze his arm tighter as my body reacts to the way he's just uttered my name.\n"Fat," I respond in kind, my own desperation so embarrassingly obvious in my voice.\nFat's giant hand twitches and I see his other curl into a fist. He's feeling what I feel. He's getting antsy too.\nAs we approach the stairs again at the end of the hall, we're nearing the final classroom and my wickedness takes hold, planting a most nasty, depraved idea in my head. I'm trying but I can't shake it off. I'm too needy. I'm too hungry. The man next to me is too delicious.\nI stop in my tracks, releasing him as I turn toward the classroom door to my left.\n"Ai-chan?" Fat questions, watching as I approach the door.\nSliding it open, I find no one in the room, as I suspected, and step inside, turning around to face him again.\nMy eyes meet his and I see concern in them. He thinks something's wrong. How cute.\nI give him innocent doe eyes and he steps closer, coming to a stop in front of me and brushing thick fingers across my cheek.\n"What's wrong?" he asks in a low, soothing tone.\n"Nothing." I give him a devilish smirk as I take hold of his jacket and pull as hard as I can, yanking him into the room with me.\nHe's too surprised by my sudden change in demeanor to do anything but stumble in after me but he catches himself on the wall a couple feet inside the door.\n"Aiko what-"\nI'm around him in a flash, sliding the door shut then taking hold of the hem of my skirt.\n"I missed you," I say softly, lovingly, "I need you."\nFat's eyes are as big as saucers as he faces me, watching me pull my skirt up the sides of my thighs until I can hook my thumbs into the waistband of my panties and slide them down my legs, stepping out of them when they hit the floor. I let my skirt fall back into place then, not yet baring myself to him. It's more fun for him to know but not see.\nHe can't stop staring at the small pink piece of fabric now discarded on the tiles.\nA thought keeps burning in my mind that I haven't considered in weeks. Fat was weak when he was thinner. When he came to me as Taishiro, he'd depleted most of his energy and strength. Now he's not. Now he's at 100%. And he is so. Fucking. Huge.\nJust what is that body capable of? I need to find out. I need to know right now.\n"Aiko..." Fat chokes out, sounding like he's barely getting any air in, "Red's class is down the hall we can't-"\nMy hand goes to my inner thigh, slowly drifting upward, drawing my skirt up with it.\nHis words cut off. His eyes are no longer on my panties anymore, they're on my hand, following its every movement.\nHe blinks his stupor away for a moment, trying to speak again. "Please just let me take you home and..."\nBut he trails off again as my hand moves higher.\nI finally reach the apex of my thighs, not quite giving him a peek, a single finger grazing the wetness there. I'm already so sensitive. It's been too long. I need this.\n"Oh god..." Fat breathes out, his scent flooding the room.\nMy fingers stroke back and forth now, moving between my folds, and a small whimper escapes from my throat.\n"Fat," I whine, my nipples hardening at the way his eyes have gone from shocked to hungry.\nI pull my fingers away and step toward him. He moves as though he's going to back up but looks unsure, indecision warring in his golden gaze.\n"I thought you weren't afraid of me," I say, mostly teasing.\n"I'm not," he says with certainty so I won't be mistaken. But he's cowed almost immediately when I step toward him again, reaching out to him. "but here? I-I don't know if...."\nHis massive hands are trembling as I take them in mine.\n"Shhh, it'll be fine," I speak soothingly.\nI don't actually know if it'll be fine. Anyone could walk in on us at any moment. That's kinda thrilling, though. It excites me even more.\nPulling his gloves off one after the other, I run my smooth hands over his rougher ones that have seen so much action. They're thick and so fucking gigantic. I doubt my whole hand could even cover his palm. But I love that about them. They used to always make me feel safe and comforted when he would pull me close or run them through my hair. Now they also entice me and make me wonder at what all they're capable of.\nI guide his hand to my cheek, letting him stroke his thumb across my lips until I move it further down, his long fingers gliding along my neck, past my collar bone.\nHe sucks in a small breath when I pull his hand over my breasts. His fingers twitch like he wants to stop here and linger a while. It's adorable and tempting but I force him to move on, pushing further down. It trails past my ribcage, to my stomach and it's here that his breathing picks up. He's getting the picture now.\nI push further still, guiding his hand across my hips and down my thigh, letting his fingers curl in the fabric of my skirt as I inch it up bit by bit until he's finally touching my supple skin.\nJust his hand on my thigh sends waves of heat rolling through my body and I watch him swallow thickly, his hand still shaking as he splays his fingers across that soft skin.\n"Fat," I sigh, moving closer to him again. This time he doesn't move to step back, though.\nHe doesn't respond. I think he might be focusing on remembering to breathe.\nWhen I guide his hand one more time, he makes a tiny sound, so small I momentarily wonder if I imagined it.\nI push his hand between my legs, curling his fingers until I feel those thick digits grazing the wetness that waits for him there.\nHe makes another sound. Something that sounds like he's whispering "oh", drawing the word out into the groan.\nHe's allowed control of his hand again and I can see how nervous he is as he only barely moves his fingers along my slit.\nThe pad of one finger lightly grazes my clit as he moves and I have to bite my lip to muffle the cry I want to make. But my hips buck into his touch, my body longing for more contact, and I grip his jacket, pulling myself almost flush with him save for giving his arm enough space to keep moving.\nI become aware of a growing bulge making an outline in his pants and my mouth waters just at the shadow of it.\nIs he...?\nI slide my own hand between us, timidly inching my way down until I can feel a firmness under my fingertips.\nIt immediately throbs under my touch and Fat's gasp and a subsequent stifled growl sends shivers through my body, more heat building within my core.\nMoving my hand along that mind-numbingly thick shaft, I'm able to confirm my suspicion.\nI know this body. At least I know its thinner, smaller form. I've become intimately familiar with it. But when he's larger, he's not just fatter and taller. When he gets bigger, everything gets bigger.\nHoly fucking All Might. I need this man to rearrange my guts with that thing right fucking now. He was depriving me of this all this time? I'm suddenly pretty upset about his lie all over again.\nThere's a small amount of hesitation in me that still voices its fear of hurting him, draining him. But the haze of lust in my brain pushes it aside easily enough. I just want to be intimate with him. I don't need to put my mouth on him for that.\n"Fuck me," I command, turning my back to him and pushing myself into his arousal.\n"Aiko!" he gasps again, sounding surprised, his voice still shaky. His fingers don't stop moving between my legs, though. If anything, they become more sure. "You really want this? You want me? Now?"\nI'm bathing in this scent, pushing myself further and further up against him, loving the softness of his body against mine.\n"Yes! Now! Please!" My hands are already behind me, fumbling with the button and zipper of his pants.\nI'm so frantic to feel him already, I'm struggling to even do this task I've done thousands of times over. But he takes pity on me, pulling his hand from between my legs to unzip his pants.\nWhen I feel his freed arousal prodding my back, a wildness comes over me that I can barely contain. I need him inside of me. I need to feel his skin on mine, hear his voice crying out in pleasure.\nPulling my skirt up around my hips and bending forward, planting my hands on the wall in front of me, I finally bare myself to him.\nI'm so wet, I can feel my own juices beginning to run down my legs and I'm already making small mewling noises when I feel his length sliding along my slickness.\n"Oh..." he groans again, voice deep with lust, "I love how wet you are for me."\nMy wings flutter in response to his praise. I love how hard his is for me so he can fuck my brains out. He'll be carrying me out of here if I have anything to say about it.\n"Fuck me, Fat-kun," I command him again.\nWith our height difference, I know it won't be as easy for him to reach me like he did before. He only had to bend his legs a little because mine were already so long.\nNow he's got far more height and it would take more than bending at the knees.\nI don't quite know how to solve this problem but Fat doesn't think on it for even a second. His warm, capable hand takes hold of my thigh and lifts one of my legs with ease, forcing my body into a split-like position.\nHis other hand is snaking up my top, pushing under my bra to cup my breast, kneading it.\nBut these two handholds give him leverage to lift me just a little bit higher so he can finally plunge inside me.\n"Oh fuck!" I nearly scream and have to clamp my mouth shut, remembering where we are.\nFat's struggling to keep his own composure, biting back an animalistic growl.\n"You're so fucking big," I whisper, almost sobbing with pleasure and anticipation.\nHe begins moving at those words, hips rocking against mine. With the position he's got me in, he's pushing so deep, he's filling me.\nAnd I know I've finally freed the caged monster inside of him as his hips begin to move faster, more force being added to each thrust.\nFuck's sake, he's strong. He's holding me up and he's pounding into me like I'm his perfect little fuck toy.\nTiny grunts escape his throat each time he buries himself to the hilt and his fingers still tease at my nipple.\nI can't hold back my own grunts at the way he keeps driving into me, hitting my core and sending jolts of pleasure throughout my body.\n"Is this... what you wanted?" He grits out through his heaving breaths.\n"Yes! Yes! Fat, fuck me! Fill my pussy!" I tell him through my own panting, trying to keep my voice down but also wanting to moan and cry and scream for him.\n"Oh god, Aiko," he growls, "You're so fucking gorgeous. You feel so good!"\nHis thrusts get more forceful and even faster and I'm literally clenching my jaw, trying to keep my mouth from screaming.\nHow is he hitting my most sensitive areas so perfectly? How does he know just what to say to make me melt for him?\nMy tail is whipping at the air, relaying just how much I'm loving every thrust he makes.\nThen he's stopped and I don't know why but I'm about to snap at him to keep going when he pulls his hand away from my breast to slide it down my other thigh.\n"Hang on to me, honey," he instructs and I do so, no questions asked. I reach my arms back and grab hold of his jacket while he lifts my other thigh now so he's holding me fully off the ground, legs spread wide.\nHis body is soft, not hard and unforgiving like before. It's like cushioning at my back and I feel so incredibly comfortable for being held in such a precarious position.\nAnd he starts his movement again, taking up his speed almost immediately.\n"Fat," I groan, my voice still quiet but getting higher pitched, "Oh fuck, Fat! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!"\nI love this! I love him! I love the sound of his breaths and grunts in my ear; the feel of his fingers digging into my thighs.\nSlapping sounds of our rough sex and our panting echo in the room and a small part of me wonders if its audible outside the door, down the hall. I don't fucking care anymore. Let me have my man. Let me enjoy this most beautiful moment of my life. Kick me out afterwards.\n"Aiko," Fat breathes into my ear, his voice high and desperate. It completely undoes me to hear him so affected.\nI lean back into him, loving the feel of him inside me, his arms around me, his breath tousling my hair.\n"Aiko..." he whimpers again, his voice even more desperate, cracking.\nHe slows.\nThen I feel something wet touch the top of my head and he stops altogether.\nTears.\nFat's crying...\nI freeze, unsure if Ive done something wrong or if he's hurt.\n"Fat-kun?" I ask nervously.\nHis grip tightens infinitesimally around my thighs.\n"I never thought... that anything like this would happen. That we would have this moment together..." I feel his cheek nuzzle my hair and he breathes a shuddering sigh. "I'm so sorry I didn't trust you. I'm so sorry I lied. I was a coward..."\nMy frenzy for him recedes and the haze of lust in my brain begins to clear.\n"Fat..."\nI put my hands on his and we extract ourselves from each other so I can stand and turn to him.\nLooking in his bright wet eyes, he seems overwhelmed with emotion and it makes my heart ache in response. It hurts me to see him hurting.\n"I've been in love with you for so long, Ai-chan. But I never thought for a second that you might... might even consider me. I shouldn't have hidden it from you but I was selfish. I still wanted you to look at me like you did that first night at least sometimes. I didn't want that gorgeous look- this," his hand goes to my cheek, "gorgeous look on your face to ever stop being for me. Even when I knew it had to eventually."\nI wish I could tell him the entirety of how deeply I've been falling for him from the start. I wish he could see that my shitty opinion of him when I get saw him at his agency was just as awful as he thought it was. That I was wrong and I fucked it all up. I could've had his whole self from the very beginning.\n"I'm so sorry, Fat, Taishiro," I say, taking his face in my hands, "I'm sorry I ever made you feel like you couldn't be loved if you were yourself. That's my flaw, not yours. You're a blessing and I won't ever hear about you being anything but."\nHis tears have dried but his eyes are still glassy with emotion.\n"I love you, Aiko," he murmurs, leaning closer.\nShit. I said I wasn't going to kiss him right now. I don't want to take risks but... but I want to kiss him. I want him to know how much I love him in return; how I've never loved anyone this way and never will again.\n"I love you," I whisper and push up to my tiptoes, letting our lips meet softly.\nFat sighs deeply and pulls me closer.\nI allow our tongues to meet and dance, the beautiful flavor of his love blending with the undercurrent of lust that is still beating within him.\nI'll never forget this. For as long as I live, I'll never forget the taste of his mouth on mine, his palm on my cheek, fingers in my hair; the way the setting sun is shining in the darkened room, casting a pink glow on us. I'll never want to stop feeling as happy as I do now.\nI squeal excitedly when his hands cup my ass lifting me once more so he can stand up straight as I wrap my legs around him as best I can.\nHe moans softly as I run my hands through his thick, blonde hair, occasionally scratching at his scalp with my nails.\nHe breaks our connection to plant small kisses down my jaw, then my neck, licking and running his teeth over the muscle there.\nIt quickly reawakens the hunger inside of me, reminding me that I've yet to be fulfilled.\n"I still want you," I lean in to tease in his ear, "I still want that huge cock pounding my pussy until you fill me with cum."\nFat shivers and I delight in the hitch in his breathing.\n"Ai-chan," he chokes.\n"Are you gonna give me what I want?" My lips graze against his ear as I ask.\n"Y-yes," he breathes, "yes, I-"\nHe's cut off by his own groan as my tongue glides along the outside of his ear.\nHis fingers dig into my ass, nails likely leaving little marks in my skin. All Might, do I love when he gives me a small amount of pain with my pleasure. I wish he'd spank me again some time. Fuck me, what kind of handprints would he leave on my ass?\nHe's carrying me backward now, my back pressing firmly against the wall, then lowers me ever so slowly until I can feel the tip of his cock at my entrance.\nI let out a small whimper as he pushes inside me again and I hear his prolonged exhale as well until he's fully sheathed in me.\n"So warm..." he whispers. I don't know if it's to me or to himself but it makes my tail curl.\nThen he's rocking his hips against mine again, though his movement isn't as frantic as last time. Now his movements are slow, sensuous, loving.\nHe brings his lips to mine once more, letting me taste the savory flavor of his lust still mixing with love.\nThe richest person in the world couldn't dine on anything this exquisite. Nothing will ever be as delicious as the man occupying my mouth right now.\nHis thrusts are still powerful, slowly pushing into my core, drawing out my pleasure and his own.\nIt feels so amazing, I feel like I could fly again. He's pouring his energy into me and he still has so much left!\nWe move against each other, our soft panting and occasional moans the only sounds in the room.\nMy orgasm begins to mount and I want to push it back down. I don't want this beautiful moment to end.\nBut he feels so fucking good inside me, I can't delay it for very long. He's pushing me up further and further into ecstasy and I can't stop it now, I feel it, I'm being swept away.\n"Fat," I say, part whisper, part whine.\n"I'm close," he assures me as well, "Kiss me, honey. I want you to taste it."\nI crush my mouth to his without hesitation, laving his desire off of his tongue and drinking down all of that delicious energy.\nA groan starts deep in his chest that turns into a fierce growl and he grips my ass so hard that I think it might bruise as I feel his cock throb inside of me, pumping hot cum into my core and filling me.\nMy orgasm breaks over me like a wave, sweeping me into an ocean of euphoria and I clamp down hard on him, loving each time I feel his cock throb.\nThe waves of flavor that roll off of his tongue are everything I've wanted. It's perfection.\nMore... something inside of me stirs to life, coursing with power and hunger.\nMy thirst for release is sated, though. I could keep going but I'd be satisfied if we stopped here.\nMy wings flare out, beating at the air and I keep my mouth on Fat's, our tongues still moving together and he happily obliges our prolonged kiss.\nThis hungry beast pulls on the stream of energy he's pouring into me and the glass tips, increasing the flow.\nIt really is so delicious. A million times better than Jared's. What a score finding a man practically overflowing with energy that he wants to spend all on me.\nMore...\nThe glass tips again and now his energy is rushing into me, strengthening my wings as they catch at the air.\nFat makes a sound. It sounds minorly concerned but he doesn't push away. He still holds me up, kissing me deeply.\nMore. I could take so much more.\nFear chills me and I consider pulling away. Something is wrong. I shouldn't be kissing him, remember?\nBut he's too good. I can't stop myself. I want it all. I need it.\nFats hands loosen for a second, like they're weakening and struggling to hold me up, but he redoubles his efforts and keeps me pinned against the wall.\nNo, Fat! Don't!\nI can't stop now even though I want more than anything to push away from him and run, never letting myself see him again.\nInside I'm screaming, though. I don't want this! I don't want to hurt him! I love him!\nThe image of him on that rug flashes in my mind and I'm positively clawing at the walls of my mind manically.\nPush me away, Fat! Drop me! Let me go!\nBut he doesn't! He has to feel me stealing from him. Is he trying to prove his lack of fear? Or have I somehow enamored him, making him unable to move the same as I can't?\nI feel him weakening under my touch, his size beginning to shrink as well.\nNonono! I want to cry, Get off of him! Don't! Please! Someone, anyone, PLEASE save him! I don't care if you have to kill me just please don't let him-\nThe door to the room slams open and suddenly I feel nothing. No energy being consumed, no taste, no smell. It's gone, along with my inability to act.\nI push Fat away at once and he stumbles back, definitely smaller in size, looking shocked and... and afraid.\n"No!" he says immediately reading whatever emotion crosses my face, "I'm not! Not of you! Not of you!"\nBefore I can respond or turn to run, the person who slammed the door open steps fully inside, swiftly shutting it again.\n"What the hell," Eraserhead barks at me, eyes glowing a bright golden color, hair lifting from his shoulders as though it were floating, "were you doing to him?"\n

Chapter 19:\n"Follow them," I instruct Red and Steel as we chase down a couple of fleeing villains who just robbed a convenience store, "I'll go this way and cut them off."\nI indicate my direction and the other two nod, then we split up.\nMaking my way around the building, I pick up speed to try and get ahead of them.\nA flash of violet hair catches my eye and my head turns, my heart already leaping with hope.\n"Aiko?" I wonder aloud, halting my progress and looking for the head of hair again.\nShe wouldn't be here alone, would she? After kicking me out of her apartment, Suneater's still been escorting her around sometimes. In fact, that's where he's meant to be today. But I don't see him anywhere either. He would've definitely said something to me if he were here, right?\nI see the flash of violet hair again but realize quickly that the person I've been looking for isn't her. She's too short, her hair is far longer.\nOf course she wouldn't be here. Why would I even think that?\n"Fat!" Red and Steel cry out, snapping me back to what I'm meant to be doing.\nThe villains!\nI turn back to see the two of them chasing down said villains past where I was meant to cut them off.\nWhat the hell is wrong with me?! I'm letting this affect how I do my job now?\nIt shouldn't be a surprise, though. I couldn't do anything but throw myself into my work when she kicked me out. I can't go back there. I know if I try, she'll do something even more drastic. She needs space and time to heal. If I can't offer the comfort she needs to do that, I shouldn't be there. Even if it kills me every time I think about that last face she made as I was leaving.\nComing back to the matter at hand, I race to catch back up with them and we funnel them into a cut off alleyway.\n"You have nowhere to go now. Just set the money down and come quietly," I order.\nOne of them pulls out a gun and I tense. No one reported anything about them being armed when we went after them!\nRed and Steel immediately armor up as I edge toward the men at the other end of the alley.\n"That won't work," I warn, holding my hands out to show my own lack of weapon, "Just put the gun down."\nI'm more worried about this guy hurting himself or his buddy or anyone who might pass by than myself or my pupils.\nTaking a few more steps forward, I feel more confident that he's not going to shoot after all. It's just for show. He doesn't have it in him.\nHe's sweating buckets and his buddy next to him is starting to look like he's unsure any of this was a good idea any longer.\n"You don't have to do this. Just put it down. I don't want things getting out of hand," I edge closer still.\nWhen I'm only a few more steps away, his nerves get the best of him and he squeezes the trigger, screaming as he does so and shooting me right in the chest.\n"Fat!" both of the boys yell in unison.\nThe villain, for his part, immediately drops the gun, falling on his hands and knees and vomiting. The other isn't looking too good either.\nA mistake, but one that could've proven costly if it had been someone else.\nRed and Steel come running up to them then and restrain both men, pulling them back up to drag them over to the closest police precinct.\n"Fat, why did you do that?" Steel asks, worry creasing his brow, "That could've ended badly!"\n"Is something wrong, Fat?" Red asks as well, "You've been... not you lately."\nBoth boys have expressions of deep concern.\n"I..." I don't know what to say. I can't pour my heart out to a couple of my pupils. I don't want them to know how distracted I've been and how much this has been affecting me.\nI shake my head, meaning I don't want to talk about it and they seem to get the message as they turn to take the villains away.\nAs we make our way down the street, to the applause and praise of relieved citizens, I still find myself looking around at every face, watching for violet hair and amethyst eyes.\nWhy am I still looking for her? She's not here! She won't come! She may never come back here again...\nLetting my mind go back to that miserable night, I think of the words she said to me as she leaned over me, tears dropping into my face.\n"I can't. I love you. You know that, don't you?"\nIt was the first time she ever told me she loved me. The only time, I suppose. And I hated it. I hated that I had to learn how she felt when she was about to give herself over to a monster just for a chance to save me.\nI wanted her to fight. I wanted her to scream and claw and burn the whole world down to get out of there.\nBut she didn't. She didn't for me. She didn't because she loved me. And I hated myself for it.\nI couldn't hold her and dry her tears. I couldn't kiss her and tell her I loved her back. I couldn't stand in front of her and protect her.\nShe had to shoulder all of the burden herself.\nWhat was meant to be one of the happiest moments of my life was turned sour with anguish as her love for me was turned against us both.\nWe reach the police station and I push the door open and hold it for my two pupils, beaming with pride at having the chance to bring in criminals this way.\nArranging my face into a more amiable expression, I follow them in to help them answering the necessary questions for the police reports.\n"Fat," Red says some time later as he's getting ready to leave, his school uniform back on, "You're coming to the cultural festival this year, right? My class will have a really cool tea shop. It'd be cool if you came and visited."\nI consider this a moment. It would be something to look forward to. Something to change the day in and day out and maybe it'll help get me out of this funk, seeing all those kids running around enjoying their youth.\n"If you want me to come, I'll come," I tell him with a grin that he returns wholeheartedly.\n"Awesome!" he says excitedly, making me feel even better about my decision, "I think you'll enjoy it."\nI sure hope so.\n--\nI think she's killing me.\nNot "killing me" as in she's so tight and wet and beautiful that she breaks my heart every time we make love. I think she's literally killing me.\nThis is what she was afraid of. This is why she pushed me away. She has no control.\nI can feel my energy leaving me. She's pulling it out like a siphon and feeding on it. Why can't she stop?\nI'm getting weaker and weaker and my arms buckle almost dropping her but I'm able to readjust my grip and keep her held up.\nSomething in me says I should've let her drop but my mind feels so fuzzy. I don't know what's right and wrong anymore, just that I want to keep holding onto her, not let her think I don't want her in my arms.\nJust as I'm getting to the point that I think I might be unable to hold her after all, the door to the classroom that she delicately shut when we entered is slammed open, the crack of it hitting the end of its track echoing around the barren room.\nAiko shoves me away almost immediately and I'm stuck scrambling to shove myself back in my pants before whoever just opened the door gets more of an eye full than they already have.\nAs my eyes shoot back to hers, I find a nearly crazed look in her eyes, a hungry, desirous beast being tucked away as quickly as I was just trying to do to myself.\nAiko...\nHer wings are larger now and horns are beginning to peek from under her hairline..\nShe's losing control of her power. Now that her body's figured out how to steal more energy, she's struggling to keep it in check.\nThe thought of how horribly this could consume her terrifies me.\nThe self-loathing and anguish on her face tells me that she feels it too and my heart cracks down the middle to see her this way.\nBut now her expression changes. She looks hurt. Betrayed.\nOh no...\n"No!" I cry out to her, trying to cut through the thoughts I can already see churning in her mind, "I'm not! Not of you! Not of you!"\nHow can she read the fear in my eyes as anything else, though? She's already convinced herself once that I'm afraid of her and, because of how much she's come to fear herself, it only makes sense to her that everyone else would too.\n"What the hell were you doing to him?" Aizawa demands, pointedly staring at her.\nHis eyes are glowing gold and his hair floats in the air around him, indicating his quirk is in use. That was how she was able to push me away.\nFor all that Aiko's been through, she's still able to straighten her back to face him, a man who is clearly being aggressive toward her, and not balk. Her strength never ceases to astound me.\n"I was killing him," she says, her voice lifeless and flat.\n"What? No! No! Aizawa, she and I were-" I break the end of the sentence off, unsure how to describe what we were doing but decide to just leave it at that, "Im sorry, it was inappropriate, I know. But she lost control. She wasn't trying to hurt me. I love her."\nHis eyes shift to me then, his power releasing her and his hair collapsing.\nThen, his eyes catch on the discarded panties on the floor and he seems to blanche a bit. I can't deny that my own embarrassment is catching up to me.\n"It looked like she was attacking you, Fat," his tone is grave, though less threatening than it had been.\n"I was..." Aiko speaks again, her softly glowing eyes staying on him, refusing to lower or seem unsure.\n"Aiko," I step toward her but the movement she makes away- strained, threatening to bolt- stops me, "You didn't mean to. It was my fault. I pushed you into so much today."\n"I wanted it, though," she looks to me, her voice more emotional now, agonized, "I'll always do this."\n"Do what? What were you doing to him?" Aizawa questions. He's clearly confused but I prefer that stance over the defensive one he was taking up just a moment ago.\nAiko's quiet, considering. Very few people know the extent of her quirk. It's probably her most closely kept secret, and for good reason. How much judgement would she get if people knew her quirk is mainly sexual in nature? How would they treat her? Other women? Men?\nJust the thought of it makes my blood boil and at the same time I feel honored for her to have told me the truth first. It was a leap of faith for her and I've always known it.\nAizawa deals with difficult quirks every day, though. He specializes in helping children hone their abilities. He wouldn't judge her.\n"He's safe, Aiko," I tell her, "He won't think badly of you."\nHis eyes narrow and go back to her, sensing there's a secret here.\nShe nods and proceeds to explain, with minimal detail, how her quirk functions.\nAizawa listens intently, not butting in to ask questions, a mask of inquisitiveness on his features, even when she points out gaining more energy from having sex and how she nearly killed Jared with her power. That's the poker face of a teacher, I guess.\n"So now you're losing control and taking more than you normally would, even with someone you care about?" He finally asks after she's finished her explanation.\nShe nods again, looking resigned.\nPart of me is happy that she's still here and talking this out instead of running away. I could see that that had been her intent as soon as she'd pushed me away. If she'd succeeded, I might've never seen her again, even after everything we've been through.\nA different part of me is frustrated that I can't comfort her, that nothing I say or do will convince her that we should be together. She's right there! I could reach out and touch her! But if I did that, I know whatever she did in retaliation, even if she felt it was for the sake of saving me, would be devastating.\nI still hear her melodic voice, breaking with emotion asking "Can you go now?" and how much it felt like a punch to the gut.\n"And you'd rather just let this affect your entire life instead of figure out how to control it?" he asks, tone clipped and mildly condescending.\nAiko looks affronted, "I can't control it! How am I meant to try? I'll kill him! I'll kill anyone!"\nAizawa shakes his head, "You're so unimaginative."\nI blink a couple times, trying to wrap my head around what he's just said, what he's implying.\nAiko's face is unmoved, "That would be a dangerous game to play." But she seems thoughtful and considers a few beats before speaking again, "You took my quirk away, though, didn't you? Can't you just take it away? Like forever?"\n"Aiko!" I gasp, horrified. How could she ask for that?\nAizawa sighs, eyeing her, "Even if I could, I wouldn't. Who knows if that would just leave you with this addiction and no way to acquire energy."\n"Addiction?" she snaps, "I'm not-"\n"You are. You didn't need it before. It's only gotten worse. The more you take, the more you need and now it's to the point that if you don't feed it, it'll kill you. It's an easy addiction to hide by being sexually active but that's what it is."\nAiko stills, her eyes widening, jaw tensed.\nI'm surprised too. Why have I not considered that until now? Does it even matter now? Could she even kick it at this point? Does she need to?\nWell... yeah. She probably would. At some point it may not be possible for her to have sex. If that happened, she'd be dead in weeks.\n"And taking it away wouldn't take away my addiction?"\n"I told you I can't-"\n"But you- you stopped me," she hedges, "You took my quirk away! I felt it!"\n"I took it away for a little while. For only as long as I can see you. If I were to look away or even blink, it'll come right back."\nMy heart breaks for her. I know she was hopeful and, despite the fact that I don't want her to change who she is, I want her to be happy and love herself again.\nI'm also thankful Aizawa isn't bringing up Eri. Eri could take it away. Possibly. But she shouldn't be utilized like a tool to give and take quirks. That would make us no better than Overhaul. I don't think Aiko would even want to use a child that way anyway. She's not that desperate or selfish. She'd sooner brave this fight on her own.\nThe hopeful look in Aiko's eye hasn't faded, though. She looks more determined than ever.\nHer bright amethyst eyes turn to me and I see that her fear is gone, brimming with a different kind of emotion now.\n"I'm so sorry for wanting to run away, Fat," she says, sincerity ringing in her voice, "I'm so sorry for pushing you away and hurting you. I do love you. You know I love you and I do want this to work. I want to try. I will try. And fight harder than I have been. So I need you to trust me and try with me as well. I won't run away anymore if you can just promise me that."\nShe steps toward me then and reaches out to take my hand.\nIt's all I can do not to drop to my knees and break down in front of her. She's really going to stay. She wants this as much as I do and she's going to stay!\n"I promise," I choke out, interlacing my fingers with hers, "I'll do anything to make this work, Aiko. I won't make you do this alone."\nHer glowing eyes are glassy as she looks up at me, gratefulness and love warming her face.\nThen she closes her eyes and takes a calming breath, turning away from me, though still keeping a tight grip on my hand.\nShe looks at Aizawa again who's been witnessing this exchange with a certain measure of confusion.\n"Eraserhead," Aiko says and his eyes lock on her, questioning, "you can only take my quirk away if you can see me?"\nHe nods, brow furrowed.\n"Do you think I can learn to control this quirk? Do you think I can not be... addicted?" she seemed to dislike the taste of that word.\n"Eventually, yes."\nShe squeezes my hand. "Then help me. Help us."\nAizawa looks like he might roll his eyes but refrains from doing so and instead says, "I told you I can't-"\n"Watch. Us." she interrupts him, "Stop me if I lose control."\nI think my heart might've just stopped and the way Aizawa's face falters, tells me he's feeling much the same.\nThe room is dead silent as a few seconds pass while our brains catch up.\nThen, as though we share the same mind for just one second, Aizawa and I both cry, "WHAT?!" at the same time.\n

Chapter 20:\n"Are you joking?" Eraserhead asks, the first to recover from his shock.\n"No!" I assure him, "I need to learn to control this power but I can't work on it without someone there to stop me. You can stop me!"\nHe considers me a moment, his eyes searching mine. I can't tell if he's hoping to find doubt or resolve there.\n"Ai-chan," Fat says gently, squeezing my hand, "Are you sure about this? Him watching us? That's... really personal."\nI look back at him briefly and find his face worried, possibly scared. For me? Or maybe because he's afraid of performing in front of someone else, let alone a friend.\nI suppose I should've considered how he'd feel about it a little more but the idea popped into my head and I just said it. I knew if I didn't in that moment, I'd never be able to work up the courage to again.\nIt is truly a terrifying prospect- sharing one of our most intimate moments with someone else- but Fat said I can trust him and that he wouldn't judge me. So far, he's shown that to be the case.\nBut maybe this proposal is one step too far for Fat.\n"Would you not want to?" I ask, afraid of what his response will be.\n"I..." His golden eyes are glossed over with unease.\nMy heart sinks. It is too much to ask.\n"If you don't want to, I won't force you." I look away, not wanting my eyes to reveal my disappointment. I don't want him to feel guilty. I just want him to be happy and to love me, "I'll figure out another way..."\nHe pulls me closer to his massive form, my chest hitting his soft, plush belly, and runs the fingers of his free hand through my hair in the way that soothes me most.\n"No," he murmurs, his voice washing over me like a warm bath, "I told you I'd do anything. I will... for you."\nMy heart lightens at his answer and my wings flare in delight. Knowing he'd step outside of his comfort zone for me makes me so happy, I feel like I might be glowing.\nEraserhead clears his throat to get our attention back on him, "I think you're forgetting that I never agreed to this."\nHis dark eyes are wary, like a jumpy animal in a predator's territory.\nAll of the hope I just built up begins to sink to the pit of my stomach again as I watch him.\n"You won't... help us?"\nHe sighs and scratches at his head, frustrated. "I want to help you, Fujisaki. I wish there were an easier way of training you than letting you put your mouth on people but..."\n"But you said I wasn't being imaginative enough! I want you to train me! I'll work hard! This isn't just a game to me!"\nHe shakes his head, "When I said that, I meant he could tie you up or something! Not that you should perform sex acts in front of other people!"\n"Not other people!" I growl back, "Just you! Aren't you a professional? Aren't you a teacher? Would you leave one of your students out in the cold like this!?"\nEraserhead hesitates and I can see something replaying in his head. I've hit a nerve...\nIt's taking him a while to respond but I wait in silence, hoping whatever he's recalling is convincing him to agree.\n"Fujisaki," he meets my eyes again, "you seem like a decent person. You would have to be for Fat to like you so much. Kirishima also only has good things to say. I have no doubt that you mean well when you're asking me to do this but it is a lot to ask."\nMy brows turn upward as I hear his words, knowing he's made up his mind. My heart sinks further and my hope along with it.\n"Please," I beg, lowering myself to the floor to prostrate myself in front of him, a position I've never found myself in before\n"Aiko," Fat gasps, surprise and sadness filling his voice, "You don't-"\n"Please, help me. I love him so much. I just want to be able to touch him and kiss him without being afraid I might kill him. He's the best thing that's ever happened to me. Isn't there anyone you would be devastated to not be affectionate with? Can't you imagine how difficult that is?"\nThe floor is cool and smooth as I rest my forehead upon it, feeling no shame at my position, only desperation. I'm so tired of being alone. I'm so tired of letting things get between us. I tried to stay away from him to protect him and I couldn't. Even if I were to try again, the moment I saw him, all of this could very well happen once more. And next time, no one would be there to take my quirk away.\nI'm not looking at him but know that it's Fat who lays a giant, warm hand at my back. He's kneeling down beside me now.\n"Aizawa," he speaks softly, emotion straining his voice, "I don't like the thought of it any more than you do. But I've seen how this quirk has taken over her life. She needs help. She can't live like this forever. If you can think of a better way, then say so."\nEraserhead is silent.\nThe silence stretches out past a minute, possibly two, until I lift my head to peer up at him.\nHe's looking down at us but his eyes are glazed over with thought, considering us.\nFinally, he comes back to himself and extends a hand to me.\n"Get up."\nI take it, my grip shaky with nerves, and he pulls me to my feet.\nHe lets me go as soon as I'm up and rolls his eyes almost too dramatically, sighing again.\n"I don't want to do this. This has 'horrible mistake' written all over it. But I'll do it. Partly for Fat," he throws a look at the man who's gotten to his feet behind me, "and partly because I do fear I'm one of the only people who can help you."\nI blink a couple times, hoping I've truly heard him correctly. "You'll- You'll really do this for me? For us?"\nA hand comes up to scratch at the back of the shaggy mane that is his hair, "Yes but I have a few stipulations."\nI can't keep myself from nodding eagerly, "Okay!"\n"First, nothing extreme like S & M stuff or anything."\nIt's hard for me to not snort at that. S & M is extreme to him? Not that I'd be up for that in front of him anyway but I'm amused that he banned it.\n"Second, I reserve the right to stop things and walk away whenever I want if I'm too uncomfortable."\nNodding again, the beating of my heart gets faster as my hope grows.\n"Lastly, I will treat this as training, as work. We'll start with you showing me what you can do already, then I'll make a plan based off of that."\n"Oh," I say with confusion, "I thought you were going to ask for compensation. I'm willing to pay you if that's what you want."\nOne of his brows quirks up, "You mean that? I won't say no if you're going to offer me money so don't do it as some kind of symbolic gesture."\n"Of course I mean it! This goes way past a favor," I admit, "It's the least I can do. I can even make some dinner or some drinks or whatever you want or need."\nA small smile comes to his lips, making his scruffy face seem so much younger than it had a few moments ago. "Then it's settled. I'll help you with those stipulations. I'm only really available on Sundays. I have school the rest of the week so we can plan on meeting then."\nI toss a glance over my shoulder to Fat, who nods in agreement as well.\n"Do you want me to make dinner or anything, like I said?" I offer again.\n"No," Eraserhead waves a hand in front of himself, "Don't do any of that. Let's just get it done and move on."\nI can't blame him for his attitude about it. He doesn't actually want to do this. Who would really? But he's doing this for us. I'm more than willing to accept any sour attitude he may have.\n"Thank you, Aizawa," Fat says softly behind me as the gruff man turns away to head toward the door.\nHe just shrugs his shoulders, toeing my panties back toward me and my skin prickles with embarrassment.\n"Just get yourselves presentable and go home. And no more sex in classrooms, for fuck's sake."\nHe mumbles something I can barely make out with my improved hearing about rabbits in heat before exiting the room, shutting the door much more quietly this time.\n--\nAs I take my seat next to Fat on the train back to Osaka, the gravity and the differentness of everything between us and surrounding us hits me like a truck.\nAre we "together" now? I suppose we are.\nEverything seems so much the same and yet, I know that I can hold his hand whenever I want to. I can kiss him to some extent. The look of tenderness I see in his eyes when he watches me isn't just friendly affection.\nWe've ridden a train together like this before, even sitting next to each other as we are now. But before, we were friends. I leaned on him and confided in him. He talked to me about... himself.\nI chuckle at that.\n"What?" Fat asks, a pleased smile coming to his face at the light in my eyes.\n"It's just that... the last time we rode the train together like this, you were comforting me because I was complaining to you about... you."\nUnderstanding shows in his eyes and a lighthearted laugh comes from him as he recalls.\n"Oh yeah, you wanted to call but were afraid I wouldn't feel comfortable being here for you."\n"Weren't you afraid I would call and your phone would go off right in front of me and the jig would be-" then a startled gasp comes from me as I come to a realization, my eyes widening in shock, "Those pictures!"\nFat out and out howls with laughter.\n"You mean these?" He flashes our old texts and the photos I'd been sending him all along. I smack his hand down, a furious blush rising to my cheeks.\n"I was sending nude pictures to you when you were just in the other room!" I squeak, hiding my face, "I'm such a pervert!"\nFat laughs again but puts his phone away to pull my hands away from my eyes.\n"Yes, you are," he says, amusement still coloring his voice as he grins down at me, "and that's part of what I adore about you."\nMy heartbeat quickens, the heat in my face no longer from embarrassment but the flush of excitement from hearing him speak about me in this way.\n"It must've been so hard keeping this secret from me. Your scent when I was teasing you."\nLarge fingers comb through my hair.\n"It was difficult sometimes, and stressful. I was always afraid you'd find out but I think... if you had called that day and found me out, I might've been relieved. Part of me always wanted you to know and hoped you wouldn't push me away. A lot of things wouldn't have happened the way they did if you had."\nA shadow falls over his face. He's thinking about me being kidnapped; everything that led up to it; everything that came after. And it occurs to me then that he must've experienced things just as horrific as I did- if not more so- those three days. He almost died. He could be hurting more than me, more than anyone.\n"Taishiro," I lay my palm against his cheek, which he in turn covers with his own, his golden eyes aglow with warmth, "What happened those three days? What... what did he do to you?"\nI'm afraid of the answer. His injuries were so severe and hard to even hear described. What if he distinctly remembers all of it? What if it haunts his dreams at night like it does mine? I would kill to take that pain from him. Of all people, he deserves that pain the least.\nHe shakes his head, "I don't remember much. I tried to come after you but it was a trap. He held me somewhere. I don't remember anything past the first half hour or so."\nHalf hour...\nI feel sick. Just the first half hour... of a beating? It's hard to imagine even just that much...\n"But I remember you leaning over me with tears in your eyes and I hated myself because I let you down. You looked that way because of me. You were left with no choice but to submit to him because I couldn't be patient enough to wait for backup."\nI'd told Taishiro I couldn't fight because I loved him. I couldn't just let him die. I would've done anything to save him. Anything...\n"Are you angry at me? For kissing him?" I ask, my heart shrinking just at the thought. He had to see that... It must've hurt him and I can't undo that...\n"No! No, of course not, Ai-chan. I wasn't angry. I'm still not angry. I was scared. If I was angry at someone it was myself because I knew you didn't want to. I knew you were scared and hurting and I hated that you were forced to do that."\nI search his eyes, trying to see if there's any untruth to those words.\nHe pulls me closer, making sure my eyes meet his and I can see his honesty in them when he says, "That moment- you being forced to kiss him- it's not my place to be angry or hurt. It's yours. You were violated and made to feel powerless. It kills me that I was a pawn in that. That's the greatest despair I feel about it. And that's why I didn't want to intrude in your personal space when I came to see you after I woke up. I didn't know what he did to you or if you could even stand someone being near you. I'm ashamed to admit that I couldn't keep myself from seeing you, but I was always trying to respect you, Aiko."\nMy throat burns as tears threaten at the corner of my eyes. He is so truly and unequivocally good.\n"Do you... Will you listen if I tell you what happened? Do you not want to know?"\nI want to tell him. I need to tell him. I told an entire room packed with heroes and police what happened while I was there but I never told them what was happening to me. They wouldn't have understood the things I went through. Taishiro, this man who's intimately aware of my fears and anxiety and every single bit of my ugliness and yet still loves me, will understand.\n"I want to hear everything you want to tell me, Ai-chan," he says, placing a soft kiss at my brow before letting me lean against his chest as I launch into the story of the worst three days of my life.\nSomehow, by the end of it, I feel as though a heaviness I'd been carrying around on my shoulders has lifted. I had pushed a lot of painful memories down, feeling like they shouldn't matter, feeling like I should just be thankful I was out at all and no one wanted to see me walking around like a zombie.\nBut Taishiro wants to hear about them. He wants me to face these things and feel whatever I want to feel. The beating of his heart under my ear is a reassuring cadence as I let out my pain and fear.\nAnd when I look up at him again, wiping away a small tear from my lower lashes, he stares into my eyes, an expression on his face that warms me and makes me think to myself "I'm home."\n"I'm so proud of you, Aiko," he speaks in a soft, gentle voice, his fingers tracing soothing circles on my scalp, "For surviving, for not losing hope, for saving us both. You're amazing. I'll never stop telling you how much you always amaze me every second of every day."\nLooking into those bright pools of glimmering gold, something deep within my chest glows. He has let me cling to him for support and strength for so long. He's pushed me to stand on my own two feet again when he knew I had the strength. His influence has helped me to keep from breaking, even when he wasn't at my side.\nI can be vulnerable with him. But I can also be powerful and he won't be intimidated. That kind of man is so rare. How is it possible that he found me? Chose me?\n"Thank you, Taishiro," I tell him, a genuine smile of happiness and joy coming to my lips that he returns wholeheartedly.\nAnd as I curl myself up against him, pressing into his massive body, I can feel the parts of me and the world that had cracked in two finally beginning to mend.\n--\nWe make it home and order dinner as I put on another episode of Honeymoon for Twelve.\nThis time as we watch, we banter and laugh together again. Taishiro snapping at one of the new couples who's been introduced (obviously to add more drama) about stirring up shit.\nThis feels right. It's the same contentment I've always felt sitting on the couch with him, but now I can lean into him like I often craved doing. He can put his arm around me or toy with my hair. It's like our friendship evolved and blossomed into something even greater.\nBento comes out of my room from his place on the windowsill after the sun sets and joins us on the couch, meowing for scraps of leftover food.\n"Shhh!" I scold him, trying to shoo him away and ducking my head as Taishiro sideyes me.\n"Have you been feeding my cat table scraps?"\nHeat flares to life in my cheeks and I smile innocently, "O-only meat! I swear! I just give him some fish... and chicken... and some beef sometimes."\nBento lets out a whining meow again and I widen my eyes at him, trying to laser in the message "Not right now!"\nTaishiro shakes his head at me, an amused smile coming to his lips, "Now look what you've made of him." He breaks off a small piece of fish he's been snacking on and holds it out to the little fluffball who devours it immediately, "He's even more spoiled than before."\nBento purrs appreciatively, rubbing his round head against Taishiro's hand, looking for extra pets.\n"I see she's made you fall in love with her too," he coos at the cat, "You've abandoned your father. After all these years together."\nAs if to prove his point, Bento purrs louder as I run a hand down his back, arching his spine.\n"Sorry, Daddy. Mommy's just prettier," I giggle, scratching my fur-son under his chin.\nTaishiro is quiet at that. When I look back to him, his face is more solemn than I expected. It looks worried even.\n"Is something wrong?" Oh no! Is he actually mad about the table scraps? Or is he mad I kept Bento for so long? Maybe he's upset I called his cat mine as well.\nBento hops to the back of the couch to relax again when my hand stills. I reach out to Taishiro but he catches my hand, holding it in his as he responds.\n"Can I... stay here with you tonight?" he asks, his genuine anxiety over my answer clear in his eyes.\nThat wasn't what I was expecting at all and I'm taken aback at the question.\nIt's such a simple request. One that should be unsurprising, expected even. But for me, it's a heart-wrenching moment. It stirs up so much of our past history.\nMemories of him refusing to stay with me despite my begging comes to the forefront of my mind. The memory of him letting me stay at his apartment after my attack, letting me borrow his clothes, letting him rock me to sleep. And finally, the memory of waking up next to him in my hotel room, brushing my lips against his, watching his eyes warm toward me. I would've slept with him then and there if he'd said yes. I would've told him then how I'd fallen for him. How beautiful and magical that moment would've been if we hadn't been interrupted.\n"I know we can't do anything," he concedes, "I won't be inappropriate. I won't even touch you if you don't want. I just want to be near you. I've spent so long away from you and I just need to see you in front of me making this face just a little bit longer."\nI don't know how my face looks to him but I know how he makes me feel, and if my expression conveys anything close to how euphoric I feel just being close to him, I can understand why he'd want to see it more often.\nMy wings flutter at my back as I lean into him, my cheek against his chest.\n"I want you to touch me," I tell him in a quiet voice, placing his arm around me, "Even if we can't do anything, I want to be near you too, Taishiro. But... my bed was barely big enough for you before. I don't want you to be uncomfortable all night if you're going to stay."\nHe's contemplative at that, then says, "I don't mind. I'll deal with it tonight and then next time you can sleep in my bed."\nNext time...\nIt's so hard to fathom that there's going to be a next time and it isn't in the distant future or an indefinite time that I can't be sure will ever come. I don't have to wait for him anymore. He'll just always be here for me.\n"I still have to work tomorrow, though, and I wasn't prepared for any of this so I have no clothes and, unfortunately, can't borrow from you like you could with me."\nI choke at that, imagining him trying to squeeze into some of my lingerie. Then, of course, that leads me to thinking of him in lingerie that's fitted to him and it becomes even harder to keep back my laughter. But another part of me also glows with interest. Hmmmm...\n"That face is trouble," he casts a suspicious gaze at me as I try to wipe the smirk off of my mouth.\nHe doesn't know just how much. Being unable to ravage him like I want to until I can get my quirk under control is going to be very trying if my mind is just constantly in the gutter. Maybe I should work a little bit more on not acting like a hormonal teenager first.\nAnd so, after we clean up dinner, brush our teeth and change clothes, we go to bed together.\nWe finally decided upon washing his jacket and pants before bed, then washing his boxers and tank in the morning, while he showers. It felt like the only decent option.\nCould he sleep naked in my bed? Yes. Would that be the smartest move for a new couple who are trying to tamp down their desires? No. I'd much prefer having his arms curled around me wearing dirty clothes for the night than to not be able to have him here at all, though.\nI don't remember falling asleep the night at Fashion Week when we shared a bed. I was too drunk and comfortable to recall much past the cat videos.\nNow though, I'll remember this. The soft, yellow light of my bedside lamp, Taishiro sitting to one side as I crawl onto the other. Laughing as he lays down and his feet hang off the end like I predicted.\nHe grabs me with a soft growl of frustration and tickles me so I'm practically screeching with laughter as he grins down at me, not stopping until I'm begging for mercy. Then his torture ends and he leans down to me, kissing me gently, carefully, not pushing for more.\nWhen he pulls back, I can only stare up at him, breathless.\nI could get used to this. I could live with just his soft kisses and playful, loving touches and I would still be happy, I realize. There's so much more between us than our desire for each other. I've lived for months getting to know him, befriending him, falling in love with him and when I think back to my heartbreak over him, those sweet moments are the ones I missed the most, not our vigorous love-making.\nSo it's not difficult to turn the light off and snuggle close to him under the covers without a drop of lust as he says, "Goodnight, sweetheart."\nThis is how I love him most. This is where my happiness shines the brightest. Just here, cocooned in his warmth.\n--\nI wake up still curled up close to him with a round, grey fuzzball purring like a chainsaw not a foot away from my face.\nIt's nice to wake up to a warm body next to me, especially one as soft and fluffy as this. Didn't I think he was such a teddy bear when I first met him? I didn't know just how accurate that was until now.\nLaying half of my body against his belly, I look up into his still-sleeping face.\nHe looks so angelic like this. His face is so round and chubby and cute. I wonder if our babies would be this adorably chubby...\nWOAH!!! Hang the fuck on now!\nWhy did I just think that? Am I out of my mind?! I gotta stop that line of thought right now!\nI shake my head, trying to clear away my momentary insanity. I'm just being overly sappy right now. I'm in the throes of new love, of course I'm going to imagine wildly grandiose things. That's to be expected.\nBut the thought eats at me in a different way then, reminding me of something I haven't considered in a while.\nI'm not the girl he said he wanted. I can't give him the future he dreamed of.\nA cold wave of doubt seeps through my body at that realization.\nIs this all for nothing? How long will I have with him before he decides he wants a real partner who will give him kids and be a little wife with a house in the suburbs that has a white picket fence and a dog named fucking Pochi?!\nIt's a painful thing to have just realized and I hold him all the tighter as though he might fade away from me right this very moment.\nI probably would still want that time with him, even if I know it's limited. He's a blessing to me. He's the sun for me, as Tamaki so eloquently put it before. I suppose I can only hope he doesn't tear my heart to shreds whenever it is he decides to leave.\nIt just sucks so bad that I only had one night of peace and contentment before my heart broke all over again.\nI reach a delicate hand up to brush a loose flaxen curl away from his face and his eyelids flutter open as he inhales deeply. An easy smile comes to his lips when he sees me in front of him.\n"G'morning," he mumbles, still half asleep.\n"Morning," I return his smile wanly.\nHis face becomes more alert when he notices my lack of enthusiasm.\n"Is everything okay?"\nI nod my head, picking at my nails to keep my eyes from his.\n"Wow, you didn't even talk and I knew you were lying. That's impressive." He pushes himself up so he's propped against the pillows behind him, cradling me against him as he does. "Tell me."\nI don't want to. I don't want him to realize it too and then push me away now instead of later. But I also can't keep on with this pressure weighing on my chest.\nSo, instead, I choose to dance around the real problem.\n"Manami, the girl you met at the party, she was a nice girl. I think she liked you a lot. She always books shoots with department stores and family-type shoots because she seems so wholesome."\nTaishiro blinks at me, utter confusion in his expression. "Yeah, I remember her. Why are you bringing her up?"\n"I just... she seemed like... She's wholesome and she... She liked you and... She'd probably...."\nI can't say it. I can't say she'd probably give him the life he wants. I want him to want a life with me.\nSomething shifts in his eyes and his muscles tense slightly, some kind of anxiety rising in him.\n"Is this... some kind of test? I don't-"\n"No! I just... want you to weigh your options."\nHis brows bunch together, "Options? She's not an option. No one else is an option. Why are you saying this? What happened? What's wrong?"\nI'm fumbling with my words. I don't know how to be coy and my heart feels like it's being squeezed to the point it might explode. I just sound dumb unless I can start being honest.\n"I'm just... not what you said you wanted," I finally admit to him, "I can't- I can't give you the future you saw for yourself. I'm not your... dream girl or whatever. I know that Manami-"\n"Stop," he cuts me off emphatically, "Stop."\nHe brings my face closer to him and I find my eyes bouncing back and forth between his, trying to understand the emotion I see there.\n"Dreams change, Aiko," he says, tenderly stroking his thumb along my cheek, "You are the future I want. I don't know what that future entails and I don't care. What I told you I wanted before... that was just a silly idealistic thought. You are real. I know for some people wanting children and marriage and all that is a make or break thing but, you know me, you see how happy I am with my life as it is now. I don't need those other things to feel fulfilled or happy. I just need you."\n"But what if... what if you decide later that they're not so inconsequential?"\n"And what if you decide later that you want to move to America to be a model there after all? These are things that we'll talk about together. I'm never going to just flip a switch one day and decide I don't want to be with you anymore because I changed my mind about wanting kids. I'm choosing you and every bit of baggage and caveat that comes with you," he assures me, his golden gaze steady on mine, "So no more talking about Manami. If I'd wanted her, I would've taken her up on her offer."\nI do a double take when I hear about this "offer," my brows rising high.\n"Offer? What does that mean? Did she proposition you?" Jealousy and possessiveness burns bright and hot in my chest. I was right to want to rip her hand off for touching him after all.\n"No! No! She asked if I wanted to have dinner!" He backpedals, looking regretful to have even said anything about her at all.\n"And you didn't tell me?! I asked you what happened with her! You said nothing happened!"\n"I didn't say nothing, I just omitted that she extended that offer..."\nWell at least he's telling the truth about that.\n"Why didn't you tell me?" I ask, unsure if I feel more angry or hurt right now, "I was feeling so... jealous and ashamed for being jealous and I'd thought I was being stupid."\n"You weren't! You weren't! I swear!" he says, pleading in his amber eyes, "I didn't tell you because I was afraid of what you'd say. I was afraid you'd try to push me toward her anyway. Or worse, that you'd ask me why I'd turned her down and I'd have to admit that I told her I was in love with you."\nMy heart stops. The anger and sadness that had come rushing in so quickly, ebbs away almost as fast as I watch his cheeks turn a light shade of pink.\n"You told her... that you love me?"\n"Yes," he murmurs, his eyes cast down as he fidgets under my gaze now, "I told her I couldn't have dinner with her because there was someone else and she could tell that someone else was you. After that, she shrugged it off and left. I'm sorry I didn't tell you. I'm sorry I was a coward."\nThe burning in my chest is gone as I lean forward, bringing my forehead to meet his. I'm ashamed to be feeling this much relief. Am I really such a terrible person?\n"No, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I ruined the morning with being overly emotional. You deserve better than that. You deserve the benefit of the doubt."\nTaishiro pulls my lips to his for a light kiss, stroking his thick fingers through my hair.\n"I deserve nothing more or less than the gorgeous woman in my lap right now."\nOh god, he's so fucking cheesy. I love him so much.\n--\nOur days pick up as though nothing's changed from before Fashion Week. It's so easy to fall back into something so familiar and comfortable.\nI accompany Taishiro to his agency most every day and sit in his office with my planner and sometimes even take the time to organize his calendar as well. He doesn't seem to mind when he finds his calendar filled with what had, until recently, been mostly sticky note reminders of appointments that are now color coded by whether or not it's for work or personal.\nAfter finally bringing Bento back to his apartment, I've been staying with Taishiro almost every night.\nEach day after work, we say goodbye to Tamaki (who's reaction to our relationship seemed more like relief than anything) and to Maki (whose reaction was far more excited) and we walk back to his apartment.\nSometimes he cooks dinner, sometimes we order out, far less often I'll cook. Then we sit around watching TV or reading. There have been a couple nights we've gone for a walk, strolling through a park hand in hand, and conversing about all kinds of different things.\nHe doesn't know this but those nights have helped immensely in stifling my fear of darkness and shadows. Having him there, whispering about our favorite movies or what we learned in school while we look up at the stars brings back better memories of when the night was beautiful and wondrous, keeping the more painful memories at bay.\nAt the end of the night we'll head to bed where he wraps me in his arms and runs his fingers through my hair, whispering sweet nothings until I fall asleep.\nThere have been a few times I've had to pull back from him when my desire for him starts to take hold.\nSometimes it'll be when he kisses me and can't keep back a tiny groan when I run fingers through his curls. Other times, it'll be when he's the big spoon behind me and I can feel his body pressed into mine so closely, I know that if I shift my hips enough, he'll definitely respond. In my most desperate times, it just takes a look from him across his desk or him accidentally brushing against my breast. It's moments like that where I wonder if I can really keep control over myself after all.\nWhen Sunday finally arrives, I'm feeling so antsy to get my hands on my man that the prospect of someone watching barely even matters to me anymore.\nI can tell Taishiro is feeling the same with the small glances he sends my way and the way he seems to always be finding a way to touch me.\nBy the time we hear the telltale knock that Eraserhead has come, I'm all too excited to fling the door open and usher him inside.\n"I see you're in an energetic mood," he says with a tone that makes it clear he's not exactly pleased by that fact.\n"Yes, Eraserhead-san."\n"Aizawa is fine," he corrects.\n"Yes, Aizawa," I amend, "I'm ready. But can I get you a drink or a snack or anything-"\n"I'm fine. I told you I just want to get this over with so," he motions with his hand, indicating he's unsure where to go, "where are we doing this? Lead the way."\nA familiar whiny meowing is heard as Bento makes his way out to the entryway, seemingly attracted by a newcomer.\nAizawa freezes in his tracks, looking down at the fluffy monster turning the corner and meowing at him again.\nIs he afraid of cats? Allergic maybe?\nBut I immediately realize both theories are wrong as his eyes soften completely and he kneels down to the cat's level as Bento approaches him.\nSomething akin to love at first sight has just happened in front of my eyes. I swear to All Might, he better not steal the love of my fur-son right after I've won him over. There will be a fight on our hands.\n"I didn't know Fat Gum had a cat," Aizawa says in a much kinder voice than he'd been using a moment ago, scratching the tiny traitor under the chin.\n"His name is Bento and he's a spoiled brat," Taishiro says, walking into the living room just to grab the recliner there and begin hauling it to the bedroom as though he'd only grabbed a sack of flour, "Come on 'zawa. This is for you. We're gonna be in the bedroom."\nAizawa stands, motioning me to go ahead of him, and we follow Taishiro into the bedroom.\nThe chair is positioned in the corner of the room, but due to the size constraints, that still ends up being only a few feet away from the foot of the bed.\n"Is this okay with you?" Taishiro asks, seeming a bit nervous now that the time is drawing closer.\n"It's fine."\nThat's the only answer we get.\n"So... are we getting started now?" I ask, feeling the tension and awkwardness beginning to grow in the room.\n"Preferably, yes. Just show me what you can do- how your quirk functions- and we'll go from there," Aizawa instructs.\nThe tension over this simple task is palpable. I'm starting to wonder to myself if either of them will really be able to handle it all the way through the end.\n"We can just... start by kissing," I suggest, "Maybe you'll feel more comfortable then."\n"I assure you, nothing that will happen is going to make me comfortable," he quips, wrapping his hair up in a bun before he takes a seat in the chair, Bento quickly taking up residence on his lap.\nOkay, so we're gonna have a full audience I guess...\nTaishiro seats himself on the bed as I tug the dress I'm wearing up, pulling it off in one motion.\nUnderneath, I'm wearing the lacy black panty and bra set I was when I first met him. I know he recognizes it when I hear his intake of breath as he eyes me up and down.\nI know Aizawa is uncomfortable- and probably will be the entire time- but I can't have Taishiro feeling that way. I know this isn't the most perfect situation but I want him to be as relaxed as he can be. My own comfort is necessary as well, I suppose, but I've had so many people's eyes on me while I've been wearing little more than a string in my ass and scraps of fabric covering my nipples, the attention- especially from someone trusted- doesn't shake me. Of course, I've never had sex in front of someone else before but I'm sure I'll be okay. For some reason, that's not worrying me. I just want to focus on Taishiro right now.\nThat's right, I think, the sentiment dancing in my eyes as they meet his, look at me. Only think about me. Forget about anyone else in this room.\nAizawa's eyes widen slightly when he sees my near nudity and he looks away, probably less-so from embarrassment than an innate instinct to respect a woman's privacy.\n"You can't do that," I correct sharply, "You can't look away from me. You have to watch. You have to keep me under control."\nThose dark brown orbs snap right back up to me, annoyance sparking in them. But he doesn't look away again.\nMy tail undulates behind me in anticipation as I go back to Taishiro, "Are you ready?"\nI take his hand in mine, bringing it to my face to cup my cheek and close my eyes when I feel his calloused thumb running along my cheekbone.\n"Yes," he bites out a bit shakily.\nI position him so his back is mostly turned toward our audience and it's me who has to see Aizawa's form watching stoically from the chair a few feet away.\n"Okay then let's just..." I trail off as I lean toward Taishiro, drawing his face to mine in what begins as a tender kiss, full of comfort and kindness.\nWe've been careful for long enough now that it takes a second for me to realize I can push further and that the gloves are off, so to speak.\nI part my lips to run my tongue along his and his tiny gasp before he obliges already sparks a fire in me.\nThen his tongue is on mine, that beautiful taste in my mouth again finally and I can do nothing but melt into it.\nHis hand is still on my cheek and I can feel him trembling, his nerves still holding him back.\nPulling back from our kiss, I whisper into his ear, "I've been dreaming all week of what I'd get to do to you today."\nTaishiro shivers and his scent becomes slightly stronger, those large fingers that had begun digging into my hair curling as his eyes grow hungrier.\n"W- what-" But whatever he was about to ask is cut off when I crush my mouth to his again, my wings beating excitedly as he moans into my mouth.\nWithout even having to break the kiss, I climb into his lap, straddling his hips. The treat of his arousal waiting for me makes heat sing through my body. At least he's having no problems on that end, even in front of someone else.\nIt's so gratifying being able to finally kiss him and touch him the way I've wanted since the cultural festival. It's so freeing to not be afraid to lose to control now that someone is keeping me in check.\nMy eyes just barely slit open to glimpse Aizawa still seated in the chair. He's got his head propped on his hand, elbow rested on the armchair and he's lazily scratching Bento behind the ears as though he's watching a rather blase movie.\nFor crying out loud, he doesn't have to be hyped about it but he could at least not act like we're boring him to death. He was the one who insisted we be ultra vanilla. If I could fully have my way, I'd've been begging Taishiro to fuck my ass again.\nWould he even fit? Maybe that would hurt... But I bet it would feel amazing too... Fuck, now I'm craving it.\nNext time. We'll do it next time. Let's not scare the grumpy man yet. We want him to come back.\nMy thoughts are interrupted and my attention goes back to Taishiro when his hands roam from my hair, down my back, all the way to my ass and squeeze it gently.\nOh, you better do it harder than that.\nI know he's got the strength to manhandle me and turn me into a sobbing, whining, begging mess, but I don't know if he has the will. At least he's not trembling anymore, though.\nHis grip gets a little tighter when he pushes my hips forward, grinding me against that thick bulge that's begging for me to play and making some instinctual deep growl come from my throat.\nTaishiro's sweet, delicious cinnamon scent only grows stronger, his hands becoming more sure and steady.\nBreaking our kiss once more, my frenzy takes hold as I pull my bra down, revealing my breasts to him, and pull myself high enough to make them face level for him.\n"Aiko!" Taishiro tenses, his head turning- I assume, to look for Aizawa and his expression- but I catch his face between my hands before he's able to subvert his attention.\n"Keep your eyes on me or I'll teach you what happens if you don't."\nTaishiro obeys, turning his head fully back to me, submissiveness in his eyes.\n"That's a good boy," I coo, smooshing his cushy cheeks and melting at how adorable he looks like that, "You keep those pretty eyes on me."\nBut upon saying that, I press my breasts into his face and he groans, gripping my ass much harder than last time, sending my tail snapping at the covers of the bed.\nMy eyes flick to Aizawa for just half a second, my own curiosity getting the better of me. His expression is much the same though Bento appears to have abandoned him, probably to go lay in the sun somewhere else.\nAgain, irritation pricks at me. I mean, I'm not trying to put on a show or anything but it's like we're fucking boring him!\nTaishiro's fingers are at the clasp of my bra then, unhooking it in record time and pulling the cloth off before placing his hands right back on my ass. Then his warm, wet tongue is dragging along the underside of my breast, causing my breath to hitch and I bite my lip in anticipation.\nThe moment I feel his lips clamp around my nipple, my tail curls and the ache between my legs becomes momentarily unbearable.\n"Ahn! Taishiro!" I whimper, gripping his mussed hair with both hands and bucking my hips, begging for any amount of friction against my sex.\nHe moans into my breast, loving the way I've cried out for him, and his fingers dig into the flesh of my ass.\nI hold him there for a time, breathing heavily and occasionally whimpering as he suckles at my breast and flicks his tongue across my nipple. Fuck, I want that tongue between my legs again. His talent with it is damn near godly.\nSwitching to the other breast, he readjusts his grip on my ass the same time I buck my hips into him again and his fingers slip lower, grazing the likely very distinct wetness soaking through my panties.\n"Oh fuck, Aiko," he groans around my nipple, still in his mouth.\nHis breaths become become more staccato as his fingers move along my slit, the soaked fabric the only thing separating those digits from my sex.\n"That's all your fault," I murmur to him as though I'm admonishing him, but he can see the playfulness in my smirk.\nHis pupils are large as though he's intoxicated as he finally pulls himself away from my breasts.\n"I want you," he whines, pleading in those darkened pools of gold, "Fuck me, please."\nTaishiro's either forgotten about Aizawa or just doesn't care anymore, his desire is too great.\nI love this man in any and every way he comes to me. Simpering and desperate, dominant and demanding, sweet and loving. Everything he does makes me want him more. Every word and touch and look my way, another blow, chipping away at my self-control.\n"You want this?" I ask, lowering myself back onto his lap to grind against that hardness restrained in his pants.\nTaishiro hisses, sucking in a breath through his teeth. The length I've settled myself above pulses, telling me just how much he liked that.\n"Yes, yes, I want you! I want to fuck you, please!" The desperation in his voice damn near undoes me. He's been craving this just as much as I have.\n"Okay then lay back," I direct, pushing at his chest, and he swiftly obeys.\nThe rise and fall of his broad, thick chest as he lays before me speaks to just how worked up he really is.\n"But first..." I trail off and Taishiro's frustrated whine turns into something far more delighted as I drag my body down his until that bulge in his pants is before me.\nUnbuttoning and unzipping his fly, then dragging his pants only part way off, my eyes alight on the more defined shape of his cock straining against the confines of his boxers now.\nI can even see a dark wet spot where precum has already been leaking from his tip and it makes my mouth water just looking at it.\nI stroke one hand lightly over his shaft and he twitches, a small grunt coming from him.\nOne finger traces the outline of the tip and I can't keep myself from extending my tongue to lick at that wet spot on his boxers, tasting the minimally sweet flavor of his precum.\n"You're so cruel," Taishiro whines and I know he's reaching the end of his leash before he just bends me over and uses me like his cum dumpster. That would be hot, though. I'd love to see him lose control like that.\nA fantasy plays out in my head where I've teased him for hours until he finally just snaps, slamming me over a table and fucking me until he cums multiple times, his seed spilling down my legs and pooling on the floor. And I can hear him saying "You wanna be a little cocktease? That's what you get." in that dark, dangerous voice of his.\nJust the thought sends a shiver all the way from the tip of my tail to the top of my spine. How can I make that happen?\nBlinking a couple times, I come back to the moment at hand, finally pulling his boxers down his hips and freeing that massive cock that just begs for me to lick it like a lollipop.\nMy tongue laps at the remaining residue of his precum at his dark pink tip and he gasps.\nHe cant resist tangling his fingers in my hair, even if he doesn't intend to fuck my mouth like he did the first time we met. I'm sure both of us would be game for more than one round but Aizawa will only be here for as long as I can show him what my quirk is capable of and I doubt he'd sit through multiple sessions of us going at it in one day.\nSpeaking of which, I haven't looked Aizawa's way in a little bit. My eyes go to him for just a second and I can see he's still in the same position. Though I'm unsure, I think he might be watching with slightly more interest now.\nTaishiro's size fits just perfectly in my mouth and I love the shocked and impatient sound he makes when I take him all the way down to the base, needing to relax my throat to do so.\n"Oh god, Aiko," he utters, gripping my hair, though not pushing me. It's probably more likely he did that just to keep himself from thrusting into my mouth.\nI only pump back and forth a couple times before I pull back, not wanting him to cum before I can get my fill of this delicious cock.\n"You ready?" I ask, not waiting for his answer before I get to my knees and turn my back to him.\nInch by inch, I lower my lacey black panties until they're at my knees. Then I bend all the way forward to brace myself as I lift each knee and pull them all the way off, eliciting another gasp from Taishiro upon seeing my glistening sex just waiting for him to bury himself inside.\nGetting back up and turning back toward Taishiro, I'm pleased to see another bead of precum waiting at his tip that I let remain as I crawl on all fours back toward him until my hips are straddling him again.\nBoth of us are breathing heavily as we stare into each other's eyes and I smile down at him with love, then with nothing but wickedness as I position myself just above his waiting arousal.\n"Tell me you wanna fuck my brains out," I demand.\n"You know I want to fuck your brains out," he snaps, his impatience apparent.\n"Call me your fucktoy."\n"I'm about to treat you like my fucktoy," he says, fingers digging into my hips to show his intentions.\nHeat rises even higher within me at his responses.\n"Tell me you love me," I demand, lowering myself to position him at my entrance.\n"I love you... more than I've ever... loved anyone, Aiko," he pants, wracked with anticipation.\n"Good answer," I smirk and lower myself onto him fully, crying out at the way he stretches me in the most gratifying way. At same time, he stifles a growl, gulping down air as though my heat is suffocating him.\nHe's seated so deep inside me that there isn't a bit of my core he isn't filling. It's such an intimate feeling to be connected with him this way; to feel him moving inside of me; to know he's feeling as much pleasure as I do.\nMy hips slowly start rocking against his, grinding him against my most sensitive spots.\n"Taishiro," I sigh with bliss, "You fit me perfectly."\nThe only response he's capable of is an unintelligible moan and the caress of his hands as they roam my body, from my thighs to my hips to my breasts and even along my tail.\nMy lazy rocking against him doesn't last for long as he pulls on my tail to pull me part of the way off him just to thrust his hips up and drive himself back deep into me once more.\nMy cry of pleasure-filled surprise is loud and makes his cock, sheathed so deeply inside of me, throb with excitement.\n"You like that?" he asks, not waiting for a response before he grabs my hips and lifts me again as though I'm light as a doll and slams me back down, impaling me on that delicious cock.\n"Yes! Yes, Taishiro!" I scream, fists bunching his shirt as I cling to him while he's lifting me up and down, "Fuck me! Use me like your cocksleeve!"\nHe growls and just plunges into me faster, the wet clapping sounds of our bodies meeting setting a steady rhythm. I love that he responds so eagerly when I talk dirty. And it riles him up even more when I moan and scream at his every thrust up with his hips and simultaneous pushing down of my own.\nI scent something new then. Something fresh. Something beautiful that wafts its way to my nose like a caress.\nWhat is that? It's like pine, so comforting and refreshing.\nCould that be...\nThere's no one else it could be. I know my lover's scent as though it were a part of me. This scent is new. So the only other person it could be is-\nI glance over at the scruffy, disgruntled man in the corner, still watching us intently. In fact, he's watching much more intently as I ride Taishiro's cock with fervor, my breasts bouncing and tail swishing as I do so.\nAizawa is taking it all in, his face the same carefully composed mask of boredom. But the heel of one foot is tapping nervously and I can see one of his hands slowly massaging near the top of one thigh.\nI have to look away so as to not spook him, but I'm certain that if I were able to look for longer, I'd find a familiar bulge under his massaging fingers.\nTaishiro gasps and hisses out a soft "Fuuuuck" when my walls tighten around him and dig my nails in the soft flesh of his belly.\nWhy is someone's arousal at watching us turning me on even more? It's like I can feel those dark eyes burning into me. Even when I can't see him, I know his eyes are on us, watching Taishiro drive into me over and over; hearing me scream in ecstasy.\nHe has to. But he's also enjoying it. I know that now. I can scent it and that pine aroma is only growing thicker.\nI coax Taishiro up into a sitting position and continue bouncing on his cock that way, pulling his face down to mine so I can taste that flavor that captivates me every time it's on my tongue.\nMy energy that had just barely begun to flag, is renewed instantly and I sigh into our kiss.\nFuck, I love this taste. I wish I could survive solely on this alone.\nA deep-rooted, ravenous hunger unfurls itself inside of me and I can feel my mind begin to go fuzzy as I feel my climax careening toward me.\n"I'm gonna-" my eyes, unbidden, fly back to Aizawa, suddenly eager to see his reaction, "I'm gonna cum, Taishiro!"\nAizawa's eyes meet mine and now he knows that I know exactly how aroused he is. He snatches his hand away from his thigh as if it had become hot coals but forgets that that hand had also been concealing the bulge restrained there.\nMy eyes go to it for just an instant but my attention is pulled away again as I'm blindsided by orgasm crashing into me.\nMy back arches and a roar of absolute ecstasy claws its way out of my throat as the world explodes around me in dazzling flashes of vibrant lights.\nI lose all control of myself, clutching to Taishiro so hard, my nails dig into his shoulders and I have to sink my teeth into his neck to keep from more outcries.\nI can hear Taishiro's sudden intake of breath at the bite but he does nothing to push me away. In fact, it seems to have spurred him to increase his pace.\n"I love feeling you cum on my cock, honey," he whispers to me, then growls deeply when my walls tighten around him again.\nMy wings flap uncontrollably, rustling my hair as I ride out my orgasm.\nAfter this, I would've thought I was spent but my energy feels renewed once more as my teeth stay clamped to Taishiro's neck.\nHe's still thrusting into me, bouncing me on his cock like the fucktoy he said he'd treat me as. The waves of his lust roll easily onto my tongue and I lave them off of his skin as though it's nectar.\nBut that deep, wild hunger pulls at me again, wanting more; demanding more.\nI want to push it back down- to deny myself this- but my hazy euphoria-addled mind only wants more, loves the feel of that thick, gorgeous cock slamming inside of me.\n"Oh god, Aiko," he groans, "You're so tight for me, I-"\nHis muscles tense and I can tell he's teetering just on the edge of his own climax.\nMy tongue delights at the energy he's giving me and the hunger inside of me takes its chance to pull on it just a bit more.\nA moan escapes me, vibrating through me and onto his skin and he shudders so violently, he has to hold onto me for balance as his cock pulses, spilling his seed deep inside of me.\nFuck, it's such an incredible feeling to know he's spent himself inside of me, feeling the warmth of his cum, the continued throbbing of his cock as his orgasm continues.\nMore...\nI know he just came but frenzy is already building in me again feeling that heat inside of me and knowing Aizawa is watching, wishing he could pleasure himself to this tableau we've created.\nI begin moving again, sliding myself up and down on Taishiro's still-hard length.\n"Aiko- I'm-" his body jerks in response to the added friction, "I'm still- sensitive. Don't-"\nHis protests die on his lips as I only move faster, a squelching sound coming from between us as his cum spills out of me and makes a mess of both of us.\nIt's so slippery but it's even easier to accommodate his size so I can move up and down his length with no difficulty at all and just continually hit the deepest part of my core over and over.\nA keening whine comes from my throat as I pleasure myself on Taishiro's cock. I'm already about to cum again.\nHe tightens his grip on my ass.\n"Use me like your fucktoy," he throws the words back at me, "Cum again for me like the dirty little cockslut you are."\nOh my god....\nOh my fucking fuck!\nTail whipping, wings beating, muscles tensing, I cum again, just like he commanded.\nI groan out my pleasure and ride out spasm after spasm, clinging to him like the life raft he truly is.\nAll Might, I can't believe he just talked to me like that... I can't believe he made me cum talking to me like that...\nI think I'm finally really exhausted now and I relax against the massive, plush body beneath me.\nBut I was wrong.\nHunger rises in me again and I soak up his lust once more, my energy returning.\nMore! That darkness cries out but I can't bring myself to move against Taishiro anymore.\nMy teeth just clamp tighter on him and I hear him hiss in pain this time.\n"Aiko," he gasps, mostly just from surprise.\nI don't answer. My mind is hazing, the hunger is taking over.\nDespair guts me even as my need for more energy controls my actions. I'd thought we'd made it this time. Nothing bad happened the first time, even when I felt my monster coming to life, I thought I'd tamped it back down. But the moment my relief allowed me to relax, I succumbed to it- this hunger; this addiction.\n"Aiko," Taishiro says a little more forcefully, gently trying to remove me but I clamp down on him harder and my nails grow into claws within seconds, digging into him.\nHe actually puts his strength into trying to pull me off of him but I pull at his energy harder. He won't get loose. He won't get away. He's mine.\nHe's growing weaker as I only grow stronger and I'm overpowering him as I only dig my claws in deeper.\n"Aizawa!" Taishiro barks, the pain apparent in his tone.\nThen the energy is gone, the hunger is gone, the cinnamon as well as the pine scent evaporates into thin air and my mind clears.\nI unlatch myself immediately, pushing myself off of Taishiro and across the bed, my nakedness of no concern to me at the moment.\n"I'm sorry!" I squeak out, unable to keep my despair from my expression.\nTaishiro only holds a hand out to stop me, "It's okay. I'm okay."\n"But- But I-" my eyes go to the small holes at his shoulders, the defined teeth marks on his neck.\n"We both knew this might happen, Aiko," he says, the warmth back in his voice now, "That's why Aizawa was here. So don't worry. I'm okay."\nMy body freezes when he brushes the backs of his knuckles along my cheek.\nI don't want to hurt him. I'm so afraid of hurting him!\n"Okay, here's what's going to happen from now on," Aizawa says gruffly, interrupting my thoughts and this tense moment between us, as his eyes resume their dark color.\nI turn to him, finally remembering my nudity and grabbing a sheet to cover myself with in some illogical attempt at propriety.\n"You're going to go as long as you can without energy, until you can feel yourself going through withdrawal. I think you said you start feeling lethargic and have less energy. Call me when that happens. Fat has my number,"- Taishiro nods at this- "We'll start training you in earnest then. I'll come up with a plan for how to do that in the meantime."\n"B- but that could take weeks!" I complain, horror coursing through me, "You want me to abstain from sex with him right here for that long? Just this week was hard enough!"\nHow could I go for weeks without having sex with this delicious man in front of me? Despite my power overcoming me again, just looking at him sitting there, one hand propping himself up, the other lightly resting on my knee, tells me I'm going to want him again long before my energy stores run out.\n"You're still being unimaginative," Aizawa chides.\nAs I open my mouth to ask what he means, he glowers at me, effectively shutting me up. Apparently, there is such a thing as a stupid question to this teacher.\n"Figure. It. Out. It's not my problem. I'm telling you how we're going to train. Call me when you're out of energy."\nAnd with that, he pushes up out of the chair and strides from the room without even a glance back.\nWhen I hear the click of the front door as he leaves, I turn to Taishiro again, an apology written all over my face.\n"Don't say it," he cuts me off before I start, "Don't. This is gonna keep happening for a while and I don't want you to feel bad about it. This is you working to control your power. I'm proud of you. I'll take the cuts and bruises that come along with it."\nWhen he puts it like that, I do feel a bit better. He's right. This is a first step to controlling this quirk and finally making it my own. I can't keep being ashamed and discouraged when I fail.\n"Besides," he grins at me, fingers toying with a piece of my hair, "I got to have sex with you again so that was definitely worth it."\n"Cum again for me like the dirty little cockslut you are." his voice rings in my ears again.\nGoddamn, that was fucking hot. I want him to do it again. Knowing that I'm going to have to wait weeks before I get my chance to try something more with him is so disheartening, though.\nBut Aizawa said before that we weren't being imaginative enough. He'd also said that he'd meant for Taishiro to tie me up.\nIdeas begin forming in my mind at that thought.\nMaybe he was right.\nMaybe I wasn't being imaginative enough...\n--\nThe next day, I'm back at the Fat Gum agency, sitting at Taishiro's desk while I go through emails for job offers on my phone. People saw the spread from my last shoot and are assuming I'm making a full comeback. Tomoyo certainly thinks I should be.\nBut should I?\nMy phone rings.\nLooking at the caller ID, I don't recognize the number. It's not too surprising to me, though, because some reporters have gotten ahold of my cell number and have occasionally been calling asking for more details about my kidnapping, trying to get a big scoop.\nSo I pick up, expecting to be bombarded with more questions and intending to tell them to fuck off.\n"Hello?"\n"Aiko," a voice comes through my receiver that chills me to the bone, making my stomach do flop flops.\n"Jared," I manage to keep my voice still when all I feel is sickened, "You're awake? Why are you calling me? Who let you have a phone? Don't call me, don't write to me, nothing you sick bastard! I should've killed you when I-"\n"Aiko, please! I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! Please just listen for one minute." His voice is shaking. He sounds terrified, on the verge of tears. What's going on?\n"Aiko, I did that because I wanted you. I took those girls because I was told I could have you if I did. You're one of the most prized possessions they have and you don't even know it."\nMy breath catches in my throat.\n"I'm...what?"\n"They said I could have you and then they went back on their word and I just couldn't take it! I had to have you! You were meant to be mine!" He's definitely crying now, breathing heavily into the phone.\n"I was meant to have her," I recall him saying as he kidnapped me. This is what he meant?\n"Who is 'they'?" I ask, confused.\n"Them. All of them. I don't know who they all are but there are so many different people behind it. They're everywhere in the fashion industry. Models, photographers, designers."\nThe trafficking ring! That's what he's talking about!\n"You're... not in charge of it?"\n"What? No! No, of course not! I didn't want to do those things! I didn't want to take those girls! I did it for you! I did it all for you! I love you and they knew it and they had me take those other girls but they lied! They told me after Fat Gum came around that we all had to lay low and that he could ruin everything. You were off the table." He makes a disgusting sniffling sound then continues, "That wasn't the deal, though. I took you anyway and now they're pissed! I wanted to save you from that life and now I can't-" he hiccups, his words starting to break down into nonsense.\n"Jared, I'm not hurt though. I'm okay," I assure him, feeling strangely sad for him. What the fuck is wrong with me?\n"You don't know. You don't know what they were gonna do with you. What they're still gonna do with you now. All they have to do is find the right buyer..."\nThe world turns itself upside down as I'm standing on it and I suddenly feel like I'm outside of myself, looking in on this conversation. My hand shakes as I keep the phone held to my ear.\n"What do you mean... a buyer?"\n"You know-" Jared cuts off as something is heard in the background. Then he sounds far away, talking to someone else in the room, "No- I was just-"\nThere are sounds but I can't make out a voice despite the fact I know he's talking to someone else.\n"No one! No, you can't see. No!"\n"Jared?" I ask, worried and scared. Something tells me he's not in police custody anymore. Did "they" help him escape?\nMore sounds are heard and Jared suddenly comes back to me on the phone now sounding strained. "Leave! Run away! Go anywhere! Don't tell anyone and just go! Please, darling! And don't trust that fucking-"\nThe line goes dead.\n"Jared?" I ask again, my voice trembling this time, but I already know he's gone.\nA wave of nausea goes through me upon considering that he's probably really gone. He won't be taking anymore girls. He won't be calling me again.\n"Ai-chan?" Fat asks, coming back into his office with our drinks and a snack for himself he'd been out to get.\nI stare at my hands on his desk, one of them still gripping the phone.\nJared... I hate him but also... I'm... sad? Scared? Angry? I don't know I'm just... lost.\n"Fat-kun," I breathe and he quickly sets everything down, kneeling at my side, his hand covering mine, "He wasn't alone."\n"He? He who?"\n"Jared. He wasn't the only one. And now he's- he's gone."\n

Chapter 21:\n"So you're saying the trafficking ring isn't just preying on the fashion industry, it's a part of the fashion industry?!" Lady Boa's voice is shrill when she speaks.\nA blanket of distress covers everyone in the room after my explanation of what Jared told me over the phone. We all thought we would only be looking for the girls who were taken now, not that even more ringleaders were among us. It's a massive blow to everyone's morale.\nI nod solemnly. "He was trying to tell me someone's name specifically before the line went dead and..." I don't finish that statement, trying not to consider the implications of him being cut off that way.\n'Don't trust anyone. Especially not that fucking-'\nFucking what? Do I know someone else involved in this? Someone important?\nModels, photographers, anyone, everyone...\n"Any guesses? Did he get any words out at all?"\nI shake my head at that. "I assume he means someone I know but I've been doing this for so many years, I know a lot of people. All of the designers I have contracts with, tons of models, photographers like Jared."\n"Well, as much as it pains me to have to do this, I need you to write down everyone in the industry you know or think you know," Lady Boa instructs, "Don't leave a single person out. We'll follow up on all of these people. It's the only lead we have. In the meantime, you need to be protected. He said you're an asset. You already have a target on your back. Stay with Fat Gum. Don't go anywhere without him. I'm sure that won't be a hardship for you."\nMy face warms all the way down to my neck as I glance at Taishiro who looks similarly awkward. We didn't even say anything about our relationship. How would you bring that up to your investigation group and why would you need to? But it seems everyone here already knows.\nI scan the room and my eyes fall on Whitney who's purposefully not looking my way. That little gossip monger...\n"Have you been getting anywhere, Bombshell?" Siren asks and everyone's eyes turn to her now.\nShe's been working hard, I know that much. Tomoyo has been scheduling multiple shoots for her every week and she's been killing it. What I've seen of her spreads has been fantastic. How she's been doing with the whole investigation, though, I'm unsure. She hasn't told me much of anything.\n"I've been gathering more information. A lot of people are very on-edge right now after Aiko was kidnapped so no one's really gone missing lately. My guess is that they're waiting for things to calm down before resuming their business. But I have been putting some things together. We already know a lot of missing girls are models or were attempting to break into the business and they've almost entirely come from Osaka." Everyone nods at that. "No one has come from any one agency, or knows any one person."\n"With the information we have now about multiple perpetrators, that makes sense," Lady Boa points out.\nWhitney nods. "There is one thing I'm going to look into more, though." She looks at me then, "Sakuya, the designer who requested you because Jared asked them to. I've heard she's acting pretty nervous ever since Jared was taken into custody. In the last couple days- as in the days since Jared was assisted in escaping- she's practically shut herself in her house and won't talk to anyone except her secretary. I don't know what that's about but it seems pretty suspicious to me."\nA look goes around the room, sharing in agreement.\n"Do you have a plan on how to talk to her?" Taishiro asks, something in his tone sounded distrustful. Why?\nWhitney's eyes are still on me, those unnaturally green irises shining with intent. Now I understand.\n"You want me to ask to talk to her..." I sigh.\nI'm so tired. Part of me doesn't want any more to do with all of this. I want to help those girls but so much has already happened to me. I'm exhausted. I know it's not this team's fault. In fact, I would've been guaranteed to go missing and never be seen again eventually if it hadn't been for all of them.\n"Just ask. See if she'll see you," she suggests, her brows turned up with pleading.\n"And what happens if and when we see her? What if she's one of them and she's just afraid of being caught like he was or whatever fate he's met now? You think she's going to want to see the girl who was responsible for his downfall?" Taishiro's question is assertive, protective. He's not going to push me to help?\nWhitney blinks at him, surprised. "I don't know what she might be. She might not want to see Aiko but I just thought we should try. Because what if she's not one of them? She could be afraid because she's a victim of some kind too. Or she might know things and be afraid of retaliation if she steps out of line."\nShe has a point. I know she's right and this could be a really important lead. I'm one of the only people she might talk to at all if that's the case.\nIt looks like Taishiro understands that as well when his face becomes more thoughtful.\n"I'll request a meeting with her," I say finally, "I don't know her that well. We've never spoken. I don't do many sportswear shoots so we haven't crossed paths much. But if she might talk to me, I'll try it."\nWhitney smiles thankfully at me. "I appreciate it, Aiko-chan."\nTaishiro's fingers curl over my hand under the table and I look up at him. His eyes are full of warmth and comfort, his expression telling me his strength is mine as well.\nThe rest of our meeting goes on discussing who is going to look into each person I write down, none of whom I would have ever imagined could do a thing as awful as buying and selling young women as though they're property.\nA shiver goes through me remembering Jared's words about their intentions for me.\nThey just have to find the right buyer...\nFor me.\nI was an object in his eyes and I am in theirs too. Only my proximity to Fat Gum and the other heroes investigating has kept me as safe as I have been.\nWhen we conclude, Rock Lock pulls Taishiro aside before we leave and doesn't stop me from following.\n"You ready for the Billboard Chart presentation? It should be interesting this year with that Lemillion kid out as a full-fledged hero now."\nOut of the corner of my eye, I can see Tamaki and Whitney both turn their heads toward the not-so-private conversation. Do they know that hero?\nTaishiro seems bewildered for a moment before seeming to recall something and recovering. "Well, to be honest, I pretty much forgot about it. So much has been going on lately."\n"So I've heard..." Rock Lock's eyes flick toward me a moment before returning to Taishiro.\nI fidget uncomfortably, suddenly overly aware of the attention we've attracted. Again, it chafes that the others know the ins and outs of our relationship so well.\n"I'll be there," Taishiro confirms, clapping a hand on his shoulder, "I'm glad you reminded me or I would've completely missed it!"\nHe hadn't even written it on a sticky note for me to save on his calendar. It kinda worries me that he forgot something that seems so important to heroes. Am I distracting him? Is this situation- training with me, looking out for me- too much?\n"I would've reminded you," Tamaki interjects, fingers toying with a lock of hair, "You wouldn't have missed it."\n"I'm looking forward to it. I don't expect I'll have broken into the top ten but I'd like to think I moved up a couple ranks." Rock Lock folds his arms against his chest, "Same with you, Fat, I can imagine you've only gone up in rank. The people love you."\nUnsurety clouds Taishiro's eyes. He doesn't seem to agree.\n"After what happened at fashion week, I don't know..."\nHe looks down in shame, fidgeting uncomfortably.\n"Fat, you won't lose rank for risking everything to save someone," one of the others still left in the room assures him, not sounding unsure at all, "That's a hero's job, even if it didn't work out perfectly, you gave everything. No one is going to judge you for that."\n"Hell, even All Might has fought battles and not come away unscathed or necessarily the victor. Our wins aren't the measure of our worth," Rock Lock picks up, "You know that, Fat. Don't get down on yourself."\nTaishiro nods, though still not seeming to fully accept what they're saying.\nWhen we finally leave the meeting, I take hold of his arm, pulling him to a stop.\n"Are you okay?"\nHe's still so quiet after discussing the hero rankings. It makes me wonder if he wasn't distracted after all and would've preferred to forget rather than actually attending.\n"I'm-" he bites off the terse reaction before he can finish, rethinking his words. "I don't know. I thought it didn't matter to me but... maybe it does."\n"You care what other people think of your ability to do your job?" I wonder aloud, confused by something like that bothering him when he's always seemed so sure of himself; confident in his abilities.\n"Not just anyone. Civilians haven't lost faith in me but my peers... Other heroes..."\n"Other heroes clearly support you. All of those people in there still think you're capable. All of them commend you for what you did."\n"But I didn't make the right choice-"\n"You didn't make the wrong choice either!" I take his hand in mine, interlacing our fingers and staring up at his unconvinced eyes, "With the information you had at the time, you made a call and your call was to try and save me as quickly as possible. You didn't know when other heroes would show up. You didn't know what he was going to do to me. You did what you thought was right. You fought. You tried. What you didn't do was freeze up or get overwhelmed. You acted. How could anyone see your actions as anything but heroic?"\nI'm so passionate about what I'm saying, my chest is heaving by the time I'm done. He has to know he wasn't wrong. He has to know no one blames him.\nA large, gloved hand brushes against my cheek and his golden eyes shimmer with sadness and regret when he says, "I've never once saved you from anything that has ever happened to you. I've never taken you out of harm's way. I've even made it worse sometimes."\nNo! No! That's not true! How does he not understand?\n"You saved me from that monster on the elevator!"\n"Only for you to end up kidnapped by the end of the day," he counters.\n"Taishiro, you-" I don't know how to quantify all of the ways he has saved me. "You've done more than just rescue me from danger. You've saved me from myself. You've let me stay by your side to keep me from danger. How many times over could I have been kidnapped if you hadn't? You've given me a family I've never known. You've helped me accept myself and started me on a road to controlling my quirk. I can't let you think you've never saved me. You save me every second of every day."\n"Aiko..." he chokes out, blinking rapidly to push back the tears I can see welling up. Then he pulls me close, enveloping me in his warmth, "Thank you."\nHe breathes a massive sigh and relaxes as though he's been relieved of a heavy burden. I wonder if he's been carrying that guilt around with him all this time. I had this misconception in my head that he was always sure of himself and knew exactly what he was doing. The perfect man. But that's not the case.\nHe's a hero but he's not superhuman. He lacks confidence sometimes like anyone else does. He second guesses himself and feels the pressure of his colleagues. He needs kind words and to be built up as much as I do.\nI've been failing him on that front. Always taking the comfort he gives and never offering any of my own. I'll do better by him from now on.\n"We can bring a guest to the presentation," he says, peering down at me with a soft smile, "I'd really like it if you came with me."\n"Of course. You don't even have to ask," I respond without hesitation, a lightness glowing in my chest upon hearing his request.\nTaishiro doesn't ask me for things very often. It's possible he doesn't want for much very often. So him being open enough with me to tell me about his worries and to ask me to do something for him, even something that I would've wanted to do anyway, makes my heart soar.\n"I love you, Fat-kun," I snuggle deeper into his cushy belly.\n"Thanks, Ai-chan," he says with a much brighter tone now, holding me a bit tighter.\nWhen I back up so we can continue on our way I give him a playful glare, elbowing him, "The correct answer is 'I love you too.'"\n"I love you too, you little sassmouth," he laughs, nudging me back.\n--\nAfter dinner that night, we're washing the dishes together, as we usually do, when a thought drifts into my mind upon watching his muscled forearms flex and bulge while washing a dish.\nThose hands, bigger than the plates they're washing, could so easily wrap around my waist. Those arms, so meaty and roped with muscle, could easily push me against a wall or even bend me over this counter right here.\nHe could make me do whatever he wants.\nHeat builds in my abdomen and I have to push it down, trying to maintain control of myself.\nBut it's hard not to fantasize about what he could do to me; everything I want him to do to me. There's just something about such a kind, mild mannered man snapping and dominating me completely.\nI've seen glimpses of it before when he was still pretending to be two different people. Now, after the other day with Aizawa, I can't get it out of my head.\n"Cum again for me like the dirty little cockslut you are."\nMy tail flicks with intrigue.\nI want him to do all of those things to me and more. Just the thought of those hands on me, the way he'd smile as I'm drooling and begging...\nBut first...\n"We should have a safe word," I blurt out suddenly, glancing at him from the corner of my eye to see his reaction.\nA crack forms in the plate he's been washing and he quickly releases it back into the soapy water before he can shatter it, turning his head to fully face me now.\n"A- A safe word? Why?"\nI look down at my recently-polished nails, checking for any imperfections to keep my eyes away from him.\n"No reason. I just kinda figured we should have one... Just in case."\n"In case of what?"\nIn case I want you to hold me down and fuck me like a wild animal.\nYeah, that might be my motive but I can't say that. I mean, it's not that I wouldn't but I know that'll immediately get Taishiro flustered and/or horny and if I'm trying to abstain, that is not a great way to do it.\n"I don't know. In case we wanted to try Aizawa's suggestion or... we could use it eventually for you to tell me I'm taking too much energy from you or something."\nMy hands twist the drying towel I have held between them as I keep my gaze focused away from him.\n"Mmhm," is his only response to my explanation. I really doubt that I've convinced him that I have truly benevolent intentions at heart but he doesn't call me out on it for some reason. "That seems like a good idea. Do you have any suggestions for what it could be?"\n"I'm not sure. Something simple to say that we wouldn't use normally. Maybe some kind of animal or a name?"\n"I have to say, I'm not big on calling someone else's name out when I'm with you or vice versa," he chuckles, feeling safe enough to go back to washing the plate he'd let slip into the sink.\nThat's fair I suppose. I probably wouldn't enjoy that much either.\n"So, an animal?"\nHe hands me the cracked plate to dry and rubs at his chin with soapy, pruned fingers.\n"What about food?"\nI cast him a sidelong glance. "But you like food. How would that be a glaring stop sign?"\n"Well," he tilts his head from side to side, "yes, I like most food but I'm least keen on sweets. Why don't we pick a sweet snack or something? A food that I'd think twice about eating."\nI set the plate I've finished drying back on his shelf. How did I never notice he didn't like sweets? Or rather, he likes them less than other foods. Have I ever seen him eat anything sweet?\nIt's kinda difficult to go back through everything I've seen him eat but I know he ate his own birthday cake. Maybe he only likes it every once in a while.\n"So... maybe chocolate?"\nHe scrunches his nose "Too long. What about taffy?"\nThe thought of crying out "taffy!" when things get too extreme for me feels a bit laughable.\nI shake my head.\nWe go back and forth for a little bit, our suggestions ranging from "caramel" to "sherbet".\nFinally, I snap my fingers, knowing I've come up with the perfect word and Taishiro blinks at me expectantly.\n"Mochi!" I suggest, lifting my brows in question at him.\nI see him considering it a moment before a grin spreads wide across his round face, pulling one from me too, as it always does.\n"Yes! It's perfect! You're a genius, as usual."\n"And you're cheesy, as usual," I pull him close by the front of his shirt and he leans down to brush his lips against mine, that cheshire smile still curving his mouth.\nThose soft, pillowy lips feel so warm and inviting and I just have to pull him down for a second kiss when he nearly moves away.\nTaishiro chuckles softly into my kiss, all too willing to oblige me, and heat pools between my thighs once again.\nI think he might sense my excitement because he comes back for the third and fourth kiss, cupping my cheek with one of his still-damp hands.\nOur kiss grows deeper, his tongue darting out to meet mine, stealing my breath from me.\nIt's practically instinct for me to pull him even closer as our kisses turn more frantic, hungrier.\nBut I know I have to break this off as a cinnamon scent tickles my nose and my demon stirs. I have to stop this before I can't.\nI pull back from him and he lets me, though his expression bespeaks his loss and regret over it.\n"Sorry," I whisper, unwilling to speak any louder for fear of exposing how weak my voice has become.\nThere's still a rift between us. One we can't fix by talking out and being open about. One that will take time and immense effort to overcome.\nA kind, though sad, smile greets me as I look up into his eyes again.\n"It's okay. I'm sorry too." Then he turns back to the sink, still full with soapy water "Come on. Let's finish so we can lay around and watch some shows before bed."\nWe go back to the job at hand but doubt quietly seeps into my mind.\nWill Taishiro put up with this forever? What if I can never control myself? We're functioning now because we believe this situation is only temporary. How long will he wait for me? How long before he wants a normal life and a normal relationship with a girl he can actually be intimate with?\nI do my best to push the thoughts away and take the next dish he hands me. I can't keep sabotaging myself this way.\nTaishiro loves me. He'd do anything for me.\nI have to have more faith in him; in us.\n--\n"Fat Gum, over here!" "Fat Gum, this way!" "Smile big for us!"\nFlashbulbs go off in rapid succession all around us as Taishiro, suited up in his hero costume, and I, dressed in a low-cut gold silk chiffon gown, make our way down the red carpet leading to the stadium that will hold this year's Hero Billboard Chart ceremony.\nThe constant flashes are almost blinding and are even more than I'm used to.\n"Can you tell us what your relationship is with Fujisaki-san?" "Are the rumors true that you're involved romantically?" "How does it feel to be dating a popular model?" "How did you take it when she was kidnapped by Jared Carson?"\nI have to control every aspect of my reaction to these questions, from my jaw itching to clench in irritation, to my tail just barely twitching.\nWe were warned ahead of time that questions like these would come up and that we needed to ignore them. No answering any questions, even the easy ones.\nFor the currently 50th ranked hero in Japan, people seem to be overly interested in him.\nTaishiro's bicep tenses under my hand that's hooked around his arm, the only indication that he's just as annoyed by this impromptu questioning as I am. His smile stays on and he looks down at me as though I'm the only thing keeping him sane right now.\n"That should be enough. You ready to go inside?"\nI nod once, barely caring that the din of shutters increases as our eyes meet and my own smile spreads across my face.\nOnce we're inside, things are far more subdued. It's mostly heroes roaming around, conversing with each other until the ceremony starts in about 30 minutes.\nIt's wild, yet poetically just, that I'm now in the position of being the guest while Taishiro knows everyone around us.\nHe leads me around to different heroes, some of whom I've met before, such as Rock Lock and most of the other heroes who are part of the investigation.\nI see Aizawa walking to take his seat at one point and call out to him.\n"Eraserhead!" I call, trying not to be too loud and disrupt others but still trying to get his attention, "Hey! Over here!"\nFortunately he hears and his tired eyes turn to me. He seems to be cleaned up for this occasion, clean-shaven and hair combed back into a well-styled bun.\nWhen he sees who it is that's called out though, he hastily turns away again, walking slightly faster away from us.\nI sigh heavily. Is he mad at me? At both of us? Does he think that being seen around us will instantly make our arrangement with us obvious?\nMaybe he's just embarrassed about what happened before and can't look me in the eye. He has to know I'm not gonna judge him for it.\n"What's Aizawa so perturbed about?" Taishiro asks, noticing the direction I'm looking.\nShould I tell him that I caught his friend getting aroused while watching us? It's a difficult choice to make. On one hand, Taishiro should be aware of something like this in case he doesn't want to go forward with this training anymore. On the other hand, we asked Aizawa to be there and watch us (me specifically). He's clearly shaken up by the whole thing. Would it really be right to out him like that?\nI need to think on this a little longer.\nI shrug my shoulders, "He's a grumpy guy. He's probably hoping we won't subject him to our escapades again any time soon."\nTaishiro snorts at that and his attention is already moving on to someone else- Tamaki, to be exact. He's approaching us now with the kind blonde boy I correctly guessed was his best friend at the cultural festival.\nBoth are in costume now and it's interesting seeing this boy's. He's got a number on the front of his. A one followed by a bunch of zeroes. How many zeroes is that? That many would make...\n"Lemillion!" Taishiro greets loudly, throwing his arms out like he might hug the boy, "Good to see you, buddy! I can't wait to see where you land on the ranking system! People have high hopes for you!"\nSo Togata is Lemillion? That's why Tamaki looked so interested when his name was brought up before.\n"Hey, Fat! Good to see you again too! And you, Fujisaki-san," his bright blue eyes go to me, bowing slightly.\nWhen I return it, he goes back to Taishiro, "I'm excited but I'm not expecting much. We just graduated afterall."\n"Don't sell yourself short. You'll probably rank even higher than me," Taishiro reassures him, although I worry about him being so self deprecating.\n"Aiko-chan," a woman's voice calls from behind me and I turn to find Whitney in her full hero regalia, all made up and looking like a star. "I thought that was you. You look beautiful!"\nFor a second I'm surprised. I've been training her as a model this whole time and while I've always known she's a hero, I'd forgotten this was an event she'd take part in with her mentor.\n"Thank you, Wh- er... Bombshell. You look amazing as well."\nIt's not just an empty compliment. She's fitted perfectly into an black catsuit with a bomber jacket over the top and a belt slung low on her hips that's equipped with a bunch of items she can presumably remove and throw for an effective explosion.\nHer pleasant smile extends to Taishiro as well and she bows to him.\n"Good evening, Fat Gum-senpai," and her smile brightens toward Tamaki that he returns much to my surprise, "Suneater."\nHer eyes snag on Lemillion who seems to be eyeing her interestedly.\n"You're Bombshell?"\nIntrigue flares in her own eyes as well. "Yes. It's a pleasure to meet you formally, Lemillion."\nTamaki seems unsure about this odd little staring competition they've got going on as he glances back and forth between them.\nI, of course, say nothing, wishing I could pull up a chair to watch this exchange. The best friend meets the budding love interest. What kind of drama will ensue?\nTaishiro opens his mouth as though he's about to say something but I elbow him softly, conveying that he should butt out (and that I want to be a nosey bitch).\nFinally, Lemillion speaks up again, "Ah, Suneater did tell me a little bit about you. How good of a friend you've been to him."\nI'm not imagining that he emphasized the word "friend", right?\nThat detail doesn't seem to have gotten past Whitney either, "Oh he's also told me that you two have been best friends since you were kids. That's so sweet!"\n"Ah..." Tamaki is trying to break into this increasingly confusing back and forth but doesn't seem quite brave enough.\nI might as well be eating popcorn for how excitedly I'm watching this unfold. There's something else going on here I haven't fully grasped yet.\nLemillion nods his head as though he agrees, "We've been together a long time. We haven't gotten to hang out as much lately but I don't think anything could come between us. Don't you think, Suneater?"\nThey both look at him but he seems a tad overwhelmed and turns his face to the ground, "N- no. Nothing could."\nWhitney looks momentarily hurt before she sends an out and out glare at Lemillion now that Tamaki is turned away. His blue eyes darken as he returns the look.\nWhat the hell is happening right now?\n"In fact, we should start scheduling lunch dates," Lemillion offers, without skipping a beat, "How does that sound?"\n"D-date?" Tamaki stutters awkwardly.\nWhitney seems to be struggling inwardly. She's just not as close to Tamaki as Togata is. She clearly wants to push for something more too but even I can see he's on the verge of completely shutting down. Togata has an edge on her that allows him to push Tamaki into increasingly more uncomfortable spots without any pushback. A best friend privilege I suppose.\nI hate to say it but Whitney is outclassed here and it's really throwing me off that Togata isn't just being defensive about his friend. He's actively pulling him away from her like she's a threat.\nOr...\nThe last puzzle piece falls into place for me.\n... like a rival.\nThe boy I met at the cultural festival was kind and sweet, the one standing before me now is acting far more territorial.\nIt's clear to me that Whitney sees the claim he's staking. I wonder if Tamaki understands what's happening as well. Is he aware how deeply his friend actually cares for him?\nOooo this drama is so much better than any TV show! I never even dreamed something this juicy would happen!\n"I- I'm gonna go get a drink of water before the ceremony starts," Tamaki blurts out and runs off before anyone has time to react.\nThe two blondes vying for his attention glare openly at each other now.\n"He's not interested in you," Togata says outright, no longer beating around the bush, "You should quit while you're ahead."\nWhitney narrows her eyes at him, "And if he were interested in you, he would've taken you up on your really obvious pleas for a date by now."\nTogata's face reddens but he stands his ground.\n"Back off."\n"Why? I like him! You're just afraid he likes me too!"\nI can see his jaw clench at that. She's right. He really is worried about that.\nSuddenly, I empathize deeply with Togata. I know Whitney is a good person. I know her even better than I know him. But I also know what it's like to be in love with your best friend and not knowing if you're willing to sacrifice the happiness you share now as friends to try and take that next step with them. I can't imagine feeling that way for years.\n"Come on, Bombshell. That's enough for now," I step in, coaxing her away from the ruffled boy.\nWhen she's settled in her seat, Taishiro and I find our own, unsurprised to find Tamaki already in his seat beside ours.\nI don't pressure him about what just went down. He still seems unsettled and I don't know what I could say to make things better anyway. This is something he'll have to work out on his own.\n"Ahhh, Fat, you're behind me this year, lucky me!"\nA woman turns to lean over the back of her seat and I'm instantly struck by how muscular she is. That and her long, white rabbit ears.\nA mischievous grin spreads across her features as she takes us in.\n"And who is your pretty date?"\n"I'm- well... We're- It's-" I can't get a single sentence out! I'm choking on my words in front of this incredible figure, "Aiko. That's my name. You can call me that. Fujisaki Aiko."\nTaishiro looks at me like he's worried I might've had a stroke while the beautiful woman just laughs.\n"Mirko."\nShe extends a white-gloved hand to me and I take it, barely able to grip hers as she shakes it.\n"Good to meet you, Aiko-chan. You're prettier in real life. Fat is a lucky guy. But he's also a really awesome person so he deserves to be happy like this."\nBlood rushes to my cheeks and I have to turn my eyes away shyly, "I'm the lucky one actually. Thank you, though."\nTaishiro's giant hand comes to rest at my back and my wings flutter when I tilt my head up to see his smiling face.\n"Oh, I don't doubt that," Mirko replies with a smirk.\nAn announcement comes over the loudspeaker warning that the show will begin in a few short minutes and requests quiet now.\nMirko turns back in her seat with a wink and I just grin dumbly back.\nI'm such an idiot. I can't even talk like a normal person around women like her. On a scale of one to ten, she's a fucking eleven. I would've thought that being in love with Taishiro would change how awkward I am but, nope, I'm just an idiot no matter what.\n"Try to reel your tongue back in your mouth, pervert," Taishiro snorts into my ear as the lights dim.\n"Shut up," I whisper, elbowing him and feeling ridiculously embarrassed at what a fool I've made of myself.\nHis chortling continues. "Now I get what you meant before about being shy around the girls you like. Do I have competition now?"\nIn all honesty, Taishiro doesn't seem jealous or concerned at all. He's obviously amused more than anything, even being aware that this woman is exactly my type. Is he really this confident in my affection for him? I have to admit that I couldn't say the same. Maybe that says more about me...\n"Obviously not," I hiss at him quietly, "I'm impressed you don't seem all that threatened, though."\nHis masked brow lifts, "I dated her once... or I guess you could call it that. We saw each other."\nSomething in the way he says "we saw each other" tells me there were few actual dates involved.\n"Oh?"\nMy eyes light up and my interest is piqued, to say the least, but it's at this moment a voice comes over the loudspeaker again and the show begins.\nThe next half hour goes by in a blur of musical numbers and testimonials of amazing heroic feats many people displayed.\nNext, comes the announcement that any hero who has ranked a higher number than 100 will be posted in the lobby on giant screens they can check after the show. The lack of disappointment from most people leads me to believe that they probably know where they've likely landed on the charts and were already aware they wouldn't be featured in the ceremony.\n"We'll now announce the top 100 ranking heroes by tens," the announcer explains, looking out at the crowd, "Unfortunately, we don't have the time for each hero to give a speech so we'll announce each name and they will all stand to be recognized, then take a seat for the next ten heroes. The final ten will each be introduced and have a chance to say a few words."\nTaishiro's whole gigantic form goes still in a way I've rarely seen him do. His shoulders are rigid, tense.\nHis worries he mentioned a couple weeks ago are still eating at him. Maybe not as much as before but he's definitely worried about what it would mean to lose rank still. He's worked so hard to get to where he is now. He's probably more worried about the effect it'll have on his pupils, possibly on me as well, even though he should know rank and accolades don't mean anything to me.\nThe first set of ten are displayed (although, it's actually 90 to 100 for the first set) on the screen on stage and the names are called out as the heroes stand one by one. Rock Lock is among them and he seems pleased as he stands and waves to the crowd.\nTaishiro seems happy enough for him at least.\nWhen they take their seats, ranks 80 to 89 are announced and another ten heroes stand to accept their polite applause, all of them proud and excited to be recognized.\nThen, 70 to 79 comes next, going through the same steps.\nTaishiro's fingers grip the armrest as 60 through 69 are announced and doesn't relax at all when his name isn't called. He can't really believe he would've dropped that far, can he?\nThe metal of the armrest groans as his grip tightens in anticipation of the next ten and I wonder if he'd be just as disappointed whether he dropped one rank or ten.\nI put my hand on top of his, interlacing our fingers.\nTaishiro's anxious eyes drop down to mine and I smile softly at him.\nI'm here. It'll be okay.\nHis grip loosens considerably and he releases a breath he seems to have been holding for a while now.\nThat is until the next ten come up on the screen and his eyes shoot back to the stage, searching frantically.\nBut... his name isn't there. He's not in this ranking. He was rank 50 before. Now... Where is he?\nHorror and disbelief marr the usually so bright features of his face and my heart squeezes in my chest at the sight. I can see exactly what he's thinking as the hero names are called out one by one.\nHe's fallen below rank 100. He thinks he's failed us all.\nI can hardly breathe through the heartbreak I feel when tears of utter devastation well up in his eyes.\nNo! This can't be right! There has to be a mistake!\nHe drops his head to his palm and I can see even Tamaki's shocked and disappointed face looking unsure what to do next as his eyes plead with me to do something. What can I do, though? How can I fix this?\nThe heroes all take their seats again as the next ten are displayed on the screen.\nHalf-heartedly, I glance up, now only slightly interested in the ceremony and how Lemillion will fair.\nInstantly, I gasp, hardly able to keep in a shriek of excitement.\n"Fat!" I whisper yell, smacking him on the arm vigorously, "Fat, look! Look where you are!"\nTaishiro didn't drop in rank! He rose! He rose a lot! Sitting at the very top of the list, is the hero name Fat Gum in big, beautiful letters.\n"40?" he breathes out disbelievingly, "I'm... rank 40?"\nThere's a loud commotion amongst many of the other audience members as I notice another familiar name on the screen as well.\n"Lemillion, Rank 43!" the announcer calls and the applause for him is louder than usual.\n"That's an impressive place to start your career," a nearby neighbor comments, "I don't think many heroes have started so high."\nSoft, warm arms envelop me as Taishiro pulls me into his embrace.\n"You did it, Fat-kun," I laugh with delight, "I'm so proud of you! I knew everyone would see how amazing you are! You deserve it!!"\nHis name is called and he stands, still trying to wipe his tears away as he's met with boisterous applause as well.\nWhen they all sit again, he pulls me to him again, kissing me softly and running his fingers gently through my hair.\n"Thank you, Ai-chan," he says sweetly as my face heats from his public display of affection, "Thank you for believing in me."\n--\nThe ceremony is wrapping up after the top ten heroes are announced (one of which was Mirko, I noticed. Leave it to Taishiro to "date" one of the top heroes in Japan) and Taishiro gets up, along with Tamaki, to socialize and congratulate his fellow colleagues.\nHe invited me to come along but I stay seated as my feet are still sore from walking around earlier and I'm still going to have to make the journey back to the loading area, where a car waits for us with our own personal driver (a fun treat I splurged on for us tonight). So I'm just biding my time until we leave.\nIt's getting boring here, though, and even though I know I'm going to regret my choices later, I get up to go find my date.\nBefore I can, someone else approaches me.\nI recognize him as one of the top ten but something else about this guy is familiar. I've thought so from the moment I laid eyes on him but I can't quite put my finger on why. The black and yellow shape on his chest, the red wings.... Why do I recognize these things?\n"You look nice," he says with swagger, though he's looking up at me.\nI answer him with an appreciative smile. "Thanks. As do you."\nHe chuckles, amused by my little joke.\n"I've never seen you here before. You're not a hero... You're not young enough to be a new graduate... So who could you be with?" I open my mouth to respond but he puts a hand up, "Nono! Don't tell me! Let me guess."\nClosing my mouth, I wait, folding my arms at my chest, arching a brow for him to continue.\nDoes he really not know I'm here with Taishiro? There was plenty enough publicity surrounding us and with that kiss he gave me after he sat down, it's definitely no secret. Judging by the way he carries himself, he may just be too self-absorbed to notice much more than what's going on in his own orbit.\nHe rubs at his chin a moment, considering. "Mmmm, probably not Kamui since he's 'secretly' dating Mt. Lady. Could be Edgeshot, but I don't think so. You don't seem like his type."\nHe seems like he's really trying to puzzle this one out. It's not fucking mystery, geez.\n"Endeavor is trying that whole 'family man' bit again... You seem like Gang Orca would be your type... Ryukyu too possibly."\nI shake my head and he tsks at me. "Stop trying to tell me the answer!"\n"You really don't know?" I ask with bemusement.\nHe laughs then ignores my jab, "Best Jeanist! That's it! He'd probably be most likely to appreciate your sense of style. Besides me of course."\n"Hm, well don't be too humble now." I put a hand at my hip, making it clear my patience is wearing thin.\nBut he seems to take it as an invitation to run his eyes down my body and I snap my fingers at him. "You can look at my face or my hand when I slap some sense into you."\n"Alright, alright," he holds up his hands in a conciliatory gesture, "No need to get violent."\n"And, no, I'm not here with Best Jeanist. I'm here with-"\n"Hawks, you're not gonna pick her up with lines like that. Does she seem like the quality of woman who would fall for them?" a flat and frankly annoyed voice breaks into our conversation.\nAizawa steps forward, not quite standing between Hawks and me, but near enough that he could get between us fairly quickly if need be.\nHawks makes a face that says he just lost all bearing on what makes sense in the world anymore.\n"She's with you? I didn't even think you were-"\n"She's with Fat, you oversized chicken," Aizawa snipes, his brow furrowing.\nThe confusion on Hawks' face clears up immediately. "Oh. Oh yeah... I did hear something about a thing with him at fashion week. Now it makes sense."\nHe heard about a thing? Taishiro nearly died and it was just a thing?\n"I should've guessed with the gold and all," he mutters to himself.\nI'm really going to hit him. I was just bluffing before but now...\n"Ai-chan, you ready to go? Oh, Hawks! You met her already, great!" Taishiro says, coming up to us now and Aizawa seems to just fade away from the conversation. He's still acting so weird. "Did you see the shoot she did for Sakuya?"\n"I did," Hawks says, mischief playing in his eyes as I glare at him. He knew who I was the moment he saw me.\nThat's why he's familiar, I realize. I was wearing an activewear set designed in honor of him the day I was attacked by one of Jared's monsters for the first time.\n"It suited her," he comments with a smirk.\nEver the pleasant conversationalist Taishiro agrees, "I thought so too."\n"Well, I'm ready to go if you are, Fat-kun," I interrupt, turning my back to the winged hero with a flick of my tail, not even bothering to give a farewell.\n"That's my cue," Taishiro says in jest, tilting his head toward me, "See ya around, Hawks."\n"See ya, Fat. Aiko-chan."\nInside, I'm mentally punching him in the face as we walk away. Who told him he could be so familiar with me? What an egotistical prick.\nI'm able to make it all the way to the car with a pleasant smile on my face before I plop into the backseat, grimacing from how sore my feet have become. I know better than to wear brand new shoes to an event I'm going to be at for hours on end but I somehow didn't have anything that matched this dress so I didn't have time to break these in.\nJust as I knew I would, I'm regretting my decision to get up again as I unbuckle my heels, flinging them away as though they've offended me.\n"That bad, huh?" Taishiro chuckles with a shake of his head as he peels off his hero costume.\n"I did it for you!" I snipe playfully, "You owe me!"\n"Don't worry, my princess, I'll carry you to the door," he laughs, pulling off his mask last, "I'm taking tomorrow off too so we can just lay around all day and watch movies or whatever you want. I'll be your humble servant."\nI kinda like the sound of that.\n"That sounds acceptable," I approve, leaning into him to relax the rest of the way home.\nWe make it there and I still try to get out of the car, determined to make it on my own, but Taishiro barely gives me a chance before lifting me up and throwing me over his shoulder like he did that night I first stayed at his house. That feels like years ago now.\nHe holds onto me with one hand while the other carries his jacket along with my shoes as he makes his way up to his apartment and not only carries me to the door but deposits me on the couch as well.\n"Don't go anywhere," he orders, handing me the remote to the TV before bounding off to the kitchen and Bento joins me on the couch, lying down with his head on my lap.\nBefore long, the mouth-watering smell of home-made curry meets my nose and my stomach growls for a meal. I haven't eaten anything since breakfast. I know Taishiro's been snacking on mostly takoyaki all day, but I still stick to my three meals and having skipped lunch to get ready for this ceremony was an awful mistake.\nI'm just wrapping up an episode of an anime I've been following and Bento's relocated to his cat bed as Taishiro brings in plate after plate of food.\nAlong with the curry, he's made me a bean sprout salad and some soup and he puts on a movie we've been talking about seeing for a while now. It's a really cool heist movie about bank robbers who are really just trying to expose corrupt heroes. I'm pleased when Taishiro enjoys it as much as I do. He still takes the time to correct inaccuracies every now and then, though.\n"I'll rub your feet if you want," he offers after he's cleared the table of our dirty dishes, when he sees me rubbing at them, wincing slightly. They're still being bothersome.\nHe holds out his hands for me to place my foot into and I am really tempted. Just imagining what those big meaty fingers could do to my feet has me melting. But he's already done so much for me tonight. I can't ask him for one more thing.\n"I'm okay. Let's just watch another episode of something and go to bed." I smile at him, expressing my sincerity.\nHe raises his eyebrows at me in challenge, "I told you I'd pamper you. I'll get you whatever you want. I'll carry you around. And now I'm gonna rub your feet."\nBefore I can pull back from him, he takes my foot in his hands, making my size 10 look almost child-like in those giant mitts of his. For all of his strength, he sure knows how to be gentle and caressing when needed. It's one of the things I love most about him.\nHis deft fingers begin massaging the sole of my foot, thumbs digging into the arch.\n"Oooohhh," I moan, leaning my head back against the cushions, "That's niiiice."\n"You like?" He asks with a grin that says he already knows the answer.\nBiting my lower lip, I nod, letting out another moan as he runs his thumb up the center of my foot again, adding a bit more pressure.\nHis fingers work at my foot, from the joints of my toes all the way down to my heel.\nMinute after minute ticks by as I luxuriate in the way the pads of his fingers knead the sole of my foot. It's heavenly, distracting, intimate in a whole new way.\nMy wings flare out as he begins this treatment all over again on my left foot now and I dissolve into a puddle of goo in his hands.\n"Mmmmm you're so good at this," I groan again, my eyes fluttering closed.\nTaishiro's puff of amused air has me opening them once more and I watch his sweetly cushy face as his lips curl upward.\n"I love when you're adorable like this, Ai-chan."\nMy cheeks burn and I look away from him. I don't usually like being called cute or adorable or anything similar. It feels so patronizing. I'm a grown woman. I'm beautiful and sexy. "Cute" is right up there with "wholesome" as a descriptor I'd never use to describe me.\nBut Taishiro's words are never patronizing. He never says things just to pay lip service. Somehow, he makes me feel as though I really am adorable in some way.\nHe digs his thumb into a particularly sensitive spot in my arch, I've been unaware of until now and I gasp, biting back another moan of pleasure.\nThose thick fingers are so damn talented, he makes my head fuzzy. I'm floating in an odd realm between relaxation and ecstasy. This treatment makes me feel like falling asleep but also makes a low-burning desire smolder deep within me. I love this, but I also can't help but want those gigantic hands creeping up my calves, gripping my thighs, leaving no part of my body untouched.\nA tiny whimper escapes my lips when he hits that sensitive spot again and Taishiro's motions slow, a purposefully shallow sigh escaping him as though he's trying to keep his breathing controlled.\n"Ai-chan," he speaks in a quiet voice, sounding strained. My eyes flick up to his to find brightly glowing orbs pinning me to the spot. "You can't keep making sounds like that. It's- I can't- I like it... too much."\nThe desire that had been smoldering so low within me just moments ago, suddenly roars to life, burning through my veins like a wildfire. I can actually feel my panties growing wetter, the longer I watch his agonized face.\nIt's been weeks... We haven't done anything, barely even made out for fear of my quirk overtaking me again. I'm still not at the dregs of my energy yet, though. It'll still be a good long while before I am. Another couple weeks at least.\nBut my skin prickles, longing to be caressed. My breasts grow heavy, longing to cupped, kneaded, suckled. Worst of all, the wet heat throbbing between my legs longs to feel him, whether it be his tongue or fingers or delicious cock, it doesn't matter.\nI want him.\nI need him.\nNodding at him as though I understand, I allow him to continue and he puts firm pressure on my foot. Though now all I can think about is the way that pressure would feel as he digs his fingers into my ass.\n"Ahn!" I make a tiny cry of delight when he makes a small circle at the ball of my foot.\nTaishiro's hands freeze again and he lifts his eyes to me, something close to pleading in them as I watch him battle with his own self-control.\nA hint of cinnamon reaches my nose but I pretend I don't smell it. He's trying to hold back, presumably for my sake, and I appreciate that. I love it, actually.\nAt the same time, I've starved for intimacy. I've been fantasizing and drooling over him for too long. We have our safe word now. If I could just get him to snap...\nAn image flashes through my mind like lightning of him bending me over this couch, scolding me while he pounds into me.\nMy tail quivers with excitement as my panties grow wetter still.\n"Sorry," I feign regret and beg forgiveness from under my lashes.\nHe looses a shuddering breath and goes back to his work again, this time taking one foot in each hand and rubbing his thumbs along the inner part of my arches.\nMy lips stay clamped shut, despite the fact that this feels heavenly. I need to let him believe I've relented for now; let him wish he hadn't asked me to stop.\nI know I'm playing with fire here but that image won't leave my mind. I've wondered for so long what he's truly capable of and he's only shown me a sliver. It's about time I learn what it is to poke the beast that hides just under the surface.\nAll of my toes flex under his warm, calloused hands and I whisper, "My ankles hurt a little bit too."\nTaishiro pauses for just a second. I'm not sure if he can sense that I'm baiting him, but if he does, it doesn't take him long to decide to take it.\nHe makes tiny circles with his thumbs all the way up the tops of my feet, to my ankles, where he goes back to treating each with both hands, delicately applying pressure there.\nSighing, I make as though I'm relaxing into the cushions further, closing my eyes again.\nAfter a couple more minutes of this, I extend my leg further into him, pushing my foot against the softness of his belly and slipping his hands up to my calf.\n"Here too?" I ask, opening my eyes to gauge his reaction.\nHis scent has been mellowing for the past couple minutes but now the air thickens with a cinnamon aroma.\n"Aiko I don't-"\n"Please. It hurts," I whine like a spoiled brat and he practically jumps back into action, working his fingers up and down my calf muscle.\nHis breaths are heavy, nearly panting, and I can feel his hands trembling slightly, the higher he moves up my leg. Just listening to him would be enough to turn me on. Watching him as he tightens and loosens his grip on me, warring back and forth with himself on what he should do is nearly unbearable.\nAs he reaches the back of my knee, he hits another pressure point that sends electricity straight up my leg, through my spine, and I let out another cry of pleasure I hadn't even intended, my back arching slightly.\n"Alright," Taishiro's growl issues like he's completely fed up and at the end of his rope. "That's it."\n"That's wh-"\nBefore I can finish my sentence, I'm being dragged toward him. But not just toward him, my legs are sinking into him. He's using his quirk on me!\n"Taishiro what are-"\nHe grips my face, smooshing my cheeks and making me unable to speak as he tilts my head to look into his eyes. What I see there chills me and at the same time, sends waves of excitement straight to my core.\nThose golden pools, usually so soft and kind, are dark now, pupils blown wide and irises ablaze with unrestrained hunger.\n"You remember the safe word."\nWas that a question? It didn't sound like one. But he's sitting still, seeming to wait for my response.\nAlarm bells ring in my ears. This is his warning. He's telling me he's about to do exactly what I'd hoped for and he's only going to stop if I say that one word. He's making sure I've remembered it. It's the only thing that'll save me from him.\nOh god, what have I unleashed? Better than that, why is my body resonating with the way he's staring at me like that?\nI just barely begin my nod and he's already moving again, releasing my face and sliding his palms down my body to squeeze my ass more ferociously than he's ever done before.\nGasping, I squirm against the cushions, pushing myself up to rest on my elbows.\n"That hurt!"\n"Did it?" he grins and squeezes me again, eliciting a tiny yelp of pain from me that garners me no sympathetic reaction.\nI push against his chest, a frustrated growl bubbling up from my throat. But that does nothing but sink my hand into his flesh as well.\nI try to pull it out but it won't budge, suctioned as though sinking into quicksand.\n"Oh no, Ai-chan, what's wrong?" Taishiro chuckles in a deep, practically villainous voice, "Are you stuck? What are you gonna do?"\nI struggle, now kicking out as well, trying to flail around, but only succeed in sinking further into his bulk pulling my legs into him, and now my hand as well.\n"You bastard!" I snarl, grabbing for any handhold with my remaining free hand.\n"Why did you really want a safe word? Hm?" He asks me with a cruel smile. "Why would we need one unless you were hoping for something like this to happen?"\nHe ducks his head, lowering his mouth to my neck and drawing a hot, slick line with his tongue.\nI can't keep in the tiny groan or the way my hips shift toward him slightly but I also refuse to answer him. I don't want to tell him he's right. It's embarrassing that he caught me in my lustful scheme.\nHe leans further into me, his lips barely brushing my ear. "What did you want me to do to you, Ai-chan? Did you want another spanking? Or for me to tease you until you cry? Or did you just want me to breed you until you're a babbling mess who lives only for my cock?"\nThis... This is the beast I've seen only glimpses of in the past. It's the one who mercilessly fucked my mouth the night I met him; the one who hauled me over the table at his agency; the one who whispered that I'm a dirty little cockslut in my ear.\nI pushed him for this. I teased it out of him. And what a reward I'm about to receive for my efforts...\n"I- I-" I don't know how to respond.\nAnother amused chuckle rumbles from his chest, shaking the both of us.\n"You want it all don't you?"\nI look away from him, too embarrassed to admit how perfectly he's hit the mark.\n"Don't act cute and embarrassed now," he scolds, his hand sweeping over my rear and toying with the base of my tail, "It's too late for that."\nHis wild eyes go to my breasts, straining painfully against the fabric of my dress at my awkward position, nearly spilling out of the low neckline.\nWhen he leans forward again, his tongue trails along the top of the fabric there, as though trying to reach the treat he knows lies beneath. He has the power to remove my dress, though. Why hasn't he torn away this silken cage or at least freed my breasts to do with as he will?\nHis hot, wet tongue extends into my cleavage, licking upward toward my collarbone.\nI can't resist arching myself toward him. What he's doing is intoxicating and it's driving me insane.\n"These things have been in my face all night," he growls into my chest, "begging for me to put my mouth on them. And you knew it didn't you? You knew I couldn't stop looking at how gorgeous they are."\nA shiver runs through me. I did know. From the moment he laid eyes on me, he had to snatch his gaze away from my cleavage. And I'd been catching him occasionally eyeing me whenever he thought others might not notice. Had it really been so tempting for him?\nWhen he extends his pink tongue again, it snakes its way along my neckline as it had before. This time though, it dips just below, grazing the sensitive peak of my nipple and I let out a sharp bark of surprise, releasing the side of the couch I'd previously been gripping.\nThe moment I do, he pulls me even closer, my legs almost completely sunken into him now.\nI want to kiss him; let him bruise my mouth with that feral passion he's feeling, but I have to resist. We can do almost anything but that.\nMy free hand goes to his head, digging into his messy blonde curls and trying to pull him closer, willing him to keep going.\nBut he only pulls back, that smirk still on his lips.\n"You want more?"\nI nod, not trusting my voice to sound anything but desperate.\nHe doesn't respond to that and continues his work, lapping at the exposed skin of my breasts, only occasionally dipping below to tease at my nipple.\nI think my desire might be burning me alive! All I want in the world at this very moment is to feel that tongue on my nipples; to feel him suck on me with those pouty lips.\n"Fat-kun," I hiss frustratedly, using his hero name to throw him off and trying to pull him in again.\nHe's more willing this time, his motions more frantic as he grasps my tail harder with a possessive growl.\n"Call me that again," he commands, breathing heavily into my chest.\nThat baritone voice giving me orders makes me want to do anything and everything he wants. But I like resisting. I like forcing his hand. I want him to bend me to his will.\n"Make me," I snap at him, baring my teeth.\nPain lances through me as I feel his perfectly straight teeth sink into the flesh of my breast and I cry out, surprised once again.\n"Fat-kun!" I acquiesce submissively, tears pricking at the corners of my eyes.\nThat hurt so badly, it made me tear up, so why do I feel my panties being flooded with my own juices? Why am I enjoying the way he's looking at me like a piece of meat? I'd never stand for it with anyone else. But Taishiro... there's something about his gigantic body and kindly nature that makes me want him to put me in my place in the most physical way possible. And looking at him right now, I can tell that's exactly what he intends to do.\n"That's what I like to hear. That's what you're going to call me. So you can be reminded that this is what you reduced me to. That your sweet Fat-kun is making you his little cum dumpster. You understand?"\nI can't answer him, still trying to process every single word he just said to me. I wish I could replay them over and over again.\nWhen an answer isn't forthcoming, a giant hand wallops my ass, sending a muffled smacking sound reverberating through the room.\n"Yes!" I yelp, then snap my jaw shut, still insistent on being adverse and not letting him get any further response from me.\n"Good."\nAnd with that, his hands are on the neckline of my dress, tearing the silk away from body as though it were merely tissue paper and wasting no time in filling his hands with my breasts that spill forth.\nHe kneads them none too softly and issues another low chuckle when I bite back my wanton moan.\nThen his tongue is on me again, first drawing over the clear half-moon lines on my skin he left with his bite as though he's proud of it and is reveling in the mark he left on me.\nI'm almost drooling as I watch that pink, glistening part of him make its way further down my breast until he draws it languorously across my hardened bud.\nI huff out a heavily affected breath and suck another in, holding it and waiting for him to continue on.\nHe grins like a fiend at my hopeful face just before pulling my nipple into his mouth.\nWhen I groan long and loud, arching my back to give him easier access, he grunts in response, sucking roughly on me.\nMy hips roll against him and I'm past caring that it's just sinking me even deeper as my slick wetness begs for some kind of friction. My one free hand tangles itself in his hair, still pulling him into me as his tongue rolls in waves across my sensitive peak.\nHis breath is hot against my skin as his jaw works up and down with each pull of his suckling.\n"Oh fuck, Taishiro," I barely rasp out through the haze of my pleasure and I yelp again when I feel his teeth nip at me.\n"Fat-kun. I meant Fat-"\nI scream as he crushes both of my breasts together, bringing my nipples close enough that he can fit both in his wide mouth and sucks on me again, drawing twice as much pleasure from me as before.\nCan someone cum from just having their tits sucked on? I don't know but Taishiro is sure trying his damnedest to make that happen.\nWith every breath I pant out, a tiny whimper escapes along with it and my tail is constricting like a snake at his thigh.\nTaishiro himself is grunting animalistically and clearly basking in how I must taste and feel in his mouth.\nHis eyes are full of greed and still untamed wildness as he meets mine once more.\nHe pulls back and I swallow my disappointed groan as he keeps my breasts held together, tongue swirling around each dark pink bud.\nThe way he flicks his tongue over my sensitive flesh just makes me press closer and closer to him, gripping him tightly.\nMy sureness that he really can make me cum this way gets clearer as I feel my muscles begin to contract.\nBut just as I approach the precipice of ecstasy, he releases my breasts, full and heavy and aching for more of his touch.\n"No!" I whine before I can catch myself, still trying to pull him to me despite his superior strength, "More!"\nA laugh, low and cruel, rumbles through him.\n"Oh you want more?"\nI realize all too late my slip up and only respond with a glare.\n"I'll give you more." His tone is threatening and would be scaring me if I weren't such a puddle of goo for anything and everything he'll do to me right now.\nHe finally releases me from his quirk but that doesn't mean he's let me go.\nHe lifts me like a doll, throwing me into the couch and pushing me back into a sitting position.\nSwinging one leg over me, he straddles my lap and brings me face to face with the evidence of how affected he's been by our exchange so far.\nThe bulge straining against his pants makes my lips part in invitation on instinct.\nIs he gonna fuck my mouth again? Is he gonna push that massive cock down my throat until tears stream down my cheeks?\nTaishiro unbuttons his pants, grabbing at my hands to shove against the hardness still restrained by the thin cloth of his boxers.\nHe holds my palms to him, bucking his hips against them and releasing a shuddering breath.\n"This is what you do to me," he growls huskily, "You think you can just make your little sounds and play your little games? Well now you get to see what happens."\nPulling my hands above my head and holding them with one of his own, he uses the other to pull the full length of that beautiful cock of his out. I squirm, barely aware of just how hard I'm fighting against his hold to get to him.\nMy mouth opens a bit wider, still trying to invite him in, expecting his savory flavor on my tongue any second.\nBut I'm sorely mistaken and almost sob when his hips move lower, pushing his hot member between my breasts.\n"Keep these here," he orders, referring to my hands.\n"And if I don't?"\nThick fingers grip my hair to pull my head back and meet his eyes above me. "I'll make you regret it."\nHe will. The sincerity in his eyes is apparent.\nI still want to disobey but leave them for now, not wanting to ruin whatever he has in store for me at the moment.\nTaishiro's attention goes back to my breasts as he pushes them together again, now encasing his girth between my soft mounds, and begins slowly moving, thrusting into my cleavage.\nThe sweat that's been building on my skin and his own saliva act as the perfect lubricant as his hips move against my chest.\nHis breathing is labored and grunts spill from his lips, "Aiko... You feel so- fucking- good," thrusts accentuating each word.\nI don't know how to feel about this. On one hand, I'm finally pleasuring that delicious cock and hearing those sweet panting breaths coming from him. On the other, I want that cock thrusting into me, making me scream.\nIs he not doing that just to torture me? He's making me watch as he pleasures himself with my body and I can do nothing about it?\nHis thumbs slowly begin circling my nipples, rolling the small buds under his calloused pads.\n"Fat-kun," I gasp, disobeying his order to keep my hands above my head to grasp at him, dragging my nails down those meaty forearms.\nHe stops, catching my hands with his own.\n"Put those fucking hands back."\nHe forces them above my head again and lowers his head toward me.\nI think he might kiss me before his mouth moves lower, to the junction between my neck and shoulder, and clamping his teeth on the muscle there.\nI cry out as his bite marks me once more, writhing beneath him but not disobeying him again.\n"Fat!" I cry, shock and yet more lust boiling up within me, "That hurts!"\n"And you love it. Don't you, you dirty slut?"\nI whimper and roll my body against his, unwilling to test him again but still feeling ornery.\n"Now hold still if you want to be rewarded at all," he says, pressing my breasts together again and letting out a deep sigh as his hips begin their movements once more.\nLong minutes pass as I sit beneath him, letting him use my breasts like a sex toy and he finally begins massaging them again, playing with my nipples like a fascinating little game.\nMy head lolls back and I despair at not being able to do anything about my situation.\n"You like... being my fuck toy?" he huffs out, now clearly deep in pleasure, "You like... being treated... like the cocktease you are?"\nI want to cry out to him "Yes! Yes! Please! Just fuck me! Please just pour your cum inside me!" but I won't beg like that yet. I still want him angry. I still want to be the little brat he needs to punish.\n"Do you like fucking my tits cuz my pussy is too much for you?" I snap back, a feral grin on my face.\nThe annoyance I see light in his eyes sets my veins on fire.\n"You... are gonna get... what you deserve," he grinds out through clenched teeth, his hips moving faster and hands grasping tighter, almost painfully to my breasts, "Now open your mouth."\nI do as he instructs, letting my tongue hang out lewdly, and his responding growl tells me he likes that look on me a lot.\n"If you want any cum... you better try to catch it," he grunts fiercely before his body spasms and hot, white ropes of cum spurt from his cock, some landing on my breasts, some on my face, now hurriedly pointed downward to try and taste any delicious part of him I can. Some lands in my mouth and I quickly lap it up like it's water to my parched body.\n"That's a good girl," Taishiro praises me, thumbs still toying with my nipples, "Now you can let your hands down and go clean yourself off before we go to bed."\nWait... what? That's it?\nHe's just gonna fuck my tits and that's it?\n"What about... what about me?"\n"What about you? Do you think you deserve to cum after misbehaving so much?" He stares down at me, releasing my breasts, "I told you, you'd regret it. You disobeyed me anyway."\nMy jaw drops, cold, hard shock rooting me to the spot.\n"But I... I..."\nAm I about to cry? I think I might as I watch him tuck himself away into his pants again.\nHe's gonna leave me like this?\nOh... no he's not. Not if I have anything to say about it.\n"So I was right," I breathe out, pushing him back off of my lap and scooching away from him, still half clothed in my torn dress, "My pussy is too much for you."\nTaishiro says nothing but watches me, his eyes narrowing.\n"You can only cum once and that's it? So much for putting me in my place." I huff in amusement, my tail twitching with irritation, "You had me all worked up for what? Some cum on my tits? Please, I knew you couldn't-"\nTaishiro is across the couch and on top of me in an instant, golden orbs blazing with warning.\n"You need to watch your mouth," he says darkly.\n"Or what?" I hiss at him, my tail whipping back and forth as his massive body presses me into the soft cushions.\nHe pushes himself up to take hold of my dress, ripping it the rest of the way off me.\nMy near-nudity doesn't embarrass me. Taishiro's seen me naked countless times now. There's no way that's meant to intimidate me. That doesn't keep him from drinking his fill of the sight of my body, though, as he stands from the couch.\n"Get. Up," he commands, eyes bright, and the bulge tucked away in his pants once more proving me wrong. He has plenty left in him to go another round... or more.\n"And if I-"\nHe grabs me by my waist and roughly hauls me to my feet, turning my back to him and pinning my arms behind me.\n"I told you to watch that smart mouth of yours," he snaps at me, "I was being nice to you, letting you walk away with a slap on the wrist."\nA slap on the wrist?!\n"But you obviously need more discipline."\nShivers travel down my tail and my toes curl as I wait for him to dole out whatever this punishment may be.\nStill keeping hold of my arms, he pushes me forward slightly, bending at the waist, holding me up with only one hand clamped at my wrists and yanking my panties past my hips.\nThe strain on my shoulders is kinda uncomfortable but that's soon forgotten as I feel thick, rough fingers gliding along my wet slit, easily sliding back and forth through my juices.\nI suck in a breath, biting my lip to near bleeding to keep from moaning as loudly as I want to.\n"Look how wet you were for me," he coos, "Aren't you embarrassed you're so turned on by being treated like a cum-guzzling slut?"\nUgh, what is wrong with me? Why do I like those words coming from his mouth? Why do I want him to call me worse things? Is it because I know he's actually madly in love with me? Is it because I know he's safe? Is it because I have some strange fetish to corrupt someone who's clearly so pure?\nSomething like that, I'm sure...\nMy thighs squeeze together involuntarily and he laughs softly.\n"Mmmm you're absolutely gorgeous."\nWithout warning, he plunges two fingers deep within me and I gasp, eyes going wide.\nHis fingers are already so thick that one would've been enough to fill me but two stretches me further than expected.\nHe's not gentle when he starts pumping his fingers in and out of me, reaching nearly to my womb.\nI struggle against his hold on me now, writhing against the hand that's fucking me and trying to push him even deeper.\nFuck, it feels so good and yet just short of being fulfilling.\n"Let go!" I bark at him, clenching my teeth against the screams threatening to tear their way out of my throat.\nA smirk is his only response and he just grips my wrists tighter against my struggles, working his fingers in and out of me faster as he curls them.\nMy whole body is shaking with the force of his pumping and drool leaks from my lips as I keep fighting to hold back.\n"Come on, honey," he purrs with delight, "Tell me how much you like that."\nI snarl at him, throwing a glare over my shoulder but it comes out as more of a keening whine and he just laughs harder, pushing deeper like I'd wanted as a reward.\nWith his fingers reaching so deep inside me now, hitting me exactly where I want, I can't hold back anymore. Desperate moans of pleasure peal from my throat, punctuating each thrust his fingers make into me. My tail curls up his forearm in the plea to keep going that my mouth will never say and I bend over further, to give him more access and to rest my head on the couch cushions.\n"That's my girl," he praises once more, in a warm, loving tone that makes my wings flutter. I'm starting to love the sound of his authoritative voice, especially when it's telling me I've pleased him. Soon he's going to figure out just how weak I am against him.\nI moan for him, just like he told me to, and he rewards me with faster pumping, hitting my sweet spot every time.\nWith every thrust, I draw closer and closer to my climax and my voice grows higher pitched.\nJust shy of reaching the edge, he stops again, refusing me my orgasm and I cry out in agony as his fingers go still inside me.\nI fight him again, straining against his grip, but he holds tight as I try to continue rocking my hips against his fingers. It's no use though. It's not the same if he's not shoving them inside of me.\nHot tears of frustration leak from my eyes to wet the soft plush beneath me and I roar my anger at him, past words being able to express how upset I am.\nThis is the second time he's stopped me just short of my orgasm and I'm getting pissed. But my anger isn't coming out like it usually does from me, in a string of curses and insults. It's coming out as strangled cries and salty tears.\nI need to get my shit together!\n"Fuck me!" I shout at him, "I thought I was your cum dumpster. Where the fuck is my cum?"\n"You just don't learn," he bites out, clearly irritated at my outburst and leans over my still bent-over form.\nMy breath catches in my throat when I feel his arousal pressing at my hip and his teeth graze my earlobe.\n"Nobody's ever fucked you like you deserve, have they?" He growls like an animal into my ear, hot breath blowing across my moistened lobe, "Nobody's given this sweet little pussy the punishment it needs."\nJuices pour down my legs like rivulets, betraying my lust.\n"No!" I sob into the cushions, "No one."\n"Then it's about time you learn your lesson."\nHe pulls his fingers out and slaps my ass hard, leaving a painful stinging sensation in its wake.\n"Mmmm," he moans, probably inspecting my drenched sex awaiting his punishment, "What a dirty girl, ass up in the air for me. You want this bad, don't you?"\nI don't answer, just shift my hips higher, a silent plea.\nFabric rustles at my back and I can hear when his pants hit the floor, abandoned at last.\nThe swollen mushroom tip of his cock drags along my waiting wetness and my walls clench, hips backing toward him, practically begging to be fucked.\nHis amused chuckle sounds behind me, pulling back, just to move barely against me again.\n"Yeah, you do," he breathes, still so close, "You know, the night I met you, I knew you were this nasty by the way you loved my dick so deep in your throat and I only ever dreamed I'd see the day I'd fuck you senseless. Every time you sent me one of those raunchy photos, I'd jerk off to it imagining your beautiful face covered in cum and screaming for more. Now look at you, just like I imagined."\n"Fat-kun," I whimper, unable to come up with a better response, "please."\n"Now you're learning," he coos at me before plunging deep inside me with a feral grunt.\nMy cry of surprise and pleasure pierces the air and tears continue pouring from my eyes at finally getting what I'd wanted all along.\n"Oh, you're always so tight," he hisses, sucking in a deep breath, not moving yet.\nI clench my walls tighter around him and a tiny grunt falls from his lips, his cock throbbing within me.\nA rough hand caresses my ass, then travels up my back, before descending again and finally taking hold of one of the two wrists he'd had held at my back to separate them, though still holding them hostage.\n"Hold on tight, sweetie."\nHe pulls mostly out of me just to slam violently back inside, burying himself to the hilt and a smacking sound ricochets around the room. I only have time to gasp before he does it again and again and again, each time somehow harder than the last.\nHis speed seems sedate at first, presumably because of the force he's putting behind those powerful thrusts. But I soon learn that that's not the case at all.\nThe rhythm of his hips slamming into me only increases as the power of his thrusts remain the same and he begins pulling my arms back each time, forcing me to meet him thrust for thrust.\nScreams I never knew I could make tear from my throat as I take his punishment, reveling in the indecent squelching sounds coming from behind me.\n"That's- right- you nasty- girl," he chokes out as he continues pounding deep into my soaked pussy, "You're- taking my- dick- so well."\nI want to tell him he's right, and that I love it, and that I'm sorry I'm such a tease but only strangled sobs and animalistic cries seem to be able to come from my lips.\n"Im gonna- cum- so deep- inside you- it's- gonna- fill you up."\nConfirmation comes from me in the form of a wanton whimper. My own orgasm is fast approaching as well and he better not deny me again. I don't know what I might do to him if he does.\nTaishiro pushes my face further into the cushions, my back sinking into his bulk as he seems to put damn near all of his strength and speed into drilling into me mercilessly.\n"Fat!" Is all I can scream. It's the only word I know, the only person I can remember anymore as I tense around that delicious cock and feel my orgasm ripple through me.\nOne more deep, ferocious thrust into me and Taishiro groans deeply, his body convulsing. Warmth spreads in my abdomen as his cock twitches, still rocking his hips minimally.\nBoth of us remain still, our panting the only sounds in the room until Taishiro catches his breath again.\n"Is that enough cum for you, my little breeding whore?"\nHe releases my arms from behind my back and I collapse onto the couch, physically and emotionally spent.\n"Yes," I whisper, "Yes. Thank you, Fat-kun. For teaching me."\nI can feel his seed, mixed with my own juices, seeping from between my legs and running onto the cushion but I can barely bring myself to notice, let alone care.\nTaishiro kneels next to me, a more tender look in his eyes now, and his hand brushes my lower abdomen.\n"You like when I fill you up like that?"\nI nod, looking up at him with thankful eyes.\n"You like being bred like my little prize whore?"\nHe's still talking that way to me and I can't say I don't love it. For tonight, I'm whatever he wants me to be. He owns me.\nA smile, sweet and kind, full of the love I know he feels for me, spreads across his face.\n"I love you, Ai-chan," he speaks in a low tone, "Now let's get you to bed."\nI don't know if I can walk, though. He's completely wrecked me.\nBefore I can explain my predicament, he lifts me into his arms like a damsel and cradles me close to his body.\nLeaning into him, I can smell his sweat and the waning scent of his desire. It's comforting and beautiful and feels like I'm floating on a cloud.\nNudging the bedroom door open with his foot, he gingerly lays me on the bed and looks me over, taking in all the bites and bruises he's inflicted on me and he smiles sweetly again, lifting a hand to my face to brush softly across my cheekbone.\nHe leans down for a soft, cautious kiss that I gladly return and release, but keeps his face close to mine as he looks into my eyes, those glittering golden orbs imprinting on my soul.\n"Are you ready for your next lesson now, honey?" he purrs in a velvety voice.\nMy eyes go wide as cinnamon, thick and obtrusive, stronger than ever before, invades my nose.\n"N-next...?"\n"I told you," he leans in to whisper in my ear, "That you should've just gone to bed and let it go."\nAdrenaline permeates throughout my body slowly, like a cold wave of ice, as my heart begins rapidly beating.\nWhat have I done? Taishiro is like some insatiable beast in front of me now. Is this how he always is? Is he just now letting me see this monster caged within him?\nI should use the safe word, right? I should say I can't take anymore. This is too much!\nBut my curiosity and my sick sick depravity rise up to meet his own and heat coils within my core. He can see the moment my resolve is firm.\n"Good," he grins and begins again.\n--\nTaishiro gives me no rest until the sky outside begins to turn a light grey.\nThen, his cruel night of lessons ends and he lets me ride him, slowly, sensually, lovingly.\nWe make love as our final act and it's full of the kind, caring Taishiro I'm used to. The one who plants small kisses on my brow and whispers sweet nothings in my ear. The one who caresses my hips and tells me everything he loves about how I move against him.\nWhen we finally collapse in a heap and he pulls me close, I sigh, contented, pleased, so sure this man is the right fit for me in every way as I drift off to a peaceful, dreamless sleep.\n--\nA jingling sound wakes me up and I check the clock at the side of the bed.\n12:45\nHoly crap, we slept the morning away!\nWhen I try to push myself up on my elbows, my muscles sorely protest and I collapse into the bed again.\nLooking down at my bruised, naked body, memories of our previous night (and most of the early hours of the morning) resurface. Taishiro did a real number on me. He pushed me to my limits sometimes and he rewarded me handsomely for obeying him.\n"Hello?" Taishiro's sleep-heavy voice answers his cell-phone which had been the source of my waking.\nA voice sounds on the other end that sounds feminine.\n"Oh. No, Mom, I didn't sleep in until this time," he blatantly lies.\nHis mother? I recall he talked about her once when I asked how his parents felt about him being a hero. He only said she supported him but he's never brought her up again.\nI wonder what she's like? I wonder if she knows about me? Another darker thought creeps into my mind. I wonder how she felt about her son nearly dying because of me. I wish I could apologize to her for worrying her.\nTaishiro sits up, shifting his legs over the side of the bed, turning his back to me as the voice speaks to him some more.\n"Yes," he says in response, sounding exasperated, "I remember. I'm coming and-"\nMore talking on the other side.\n"That's not up to me. I haven't even asked her yet."\nThe voice cuts in again.\n"No, she's not."\nPausing for a response.\n"She's not here, Mom. She doesn't spend the night. I'm-"\nAnother pause.\n"No. I'm not lying."\nThe other voice gets louder.\n"Geez, Christ's sakes, Mom. Fine. Just a sec."\nTaishiro finally turns to me, his gold eyes apologetic. "I'm sorry I didn't bring this up before but things were just so.... new and we were figuring it all out but... my mom's having her monthly dinner and she wants me to bring you. I'm so sorry to spring this on you."\n"Your- Your mom knows about me?"\nTaishiro's face is confused. "Why wouldn't she know about my girlfriend?"\nI blink dumbly for a couple seconds. Why did I think I was a secret? Why did I think he'd be embarrassed to tell his mother about me? Have I learned nothing from how he treats me?\n"Yeah... Ok, I can go."\nTaishiro's demeanor brightens and he turns away from me again to continue his conversation with his mother as I inspect the broad planes of back.\nScratch marks litter it, crossing this way and that. Some are mostly superficial welts that will disappear in a day. Others are deep, scabbed over lines that clearly broke the skin at some point.\nBruises of his own mark his hips and shoulders. I admit that my own body looks more battered but I didn't hold back either last night. I was nearly just as wild.\nEnding the call with his mother, Taishiro turns to me again, his eyes bright and clear as he smiles at me.\n"Thanks for humoring her. Sorry I kinda put you on the spot there."\nI crawl toward him and seat myself in his lap where he casually loops his arms around my waist.\n"You seem... nicer this morning," I tell him conversationally.\nA mischievous glint comes to his eye as he grins.\n"You had fun last night?"\nHis attention goes to the bite mark at my neck, that he lightly traces with one rough fingertip and I flinch slightly at the minor pain.\nI nod with a coy smile of my own. "Maybe we can do it again some time."\nMy body needs to recover first and it would be even better if I could get control of my quirk before then. If I could've bitten him back....\n"God, I love you," he says, a look of amazement on his face.\n"I love you," I quip back before cuddling up close to his chest and relaxing into his embrace.\nThere's still so much we still have to work toward but just here, in this moment, we can be happy together.\n

Chapter 22:\nI'm milling about, accepting congratulations and offering a few of my own to those who've risen in rank. Aiko is back at our seats, complaining that her feet are too sore to walk around much more. Suneater's run off somewhere, probably trying to avoid another conflict between Bombshell and Lemillion.\nThe way they bickered over him was surprising. I had always suspected Suneater was the one with feelings for Lemillion with the way he always spoke about him so admiringly. Now to find out it's been the other way around this whole time has really thrown me for a loop. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around it.\nI feel a light tap at my elbow and turn to find Mirko at my side.\n"Hi there, buns," I greet with my favorite nickname for her. Though, I think Hawks uses it sometimes too. Those two seem to get along well.\n"Congrats on rank 40!" she grins up at me, her face always full of mischief even when she's not up to something. It's hard to tell when she is or isn't most of the time.\n"Well it's no third but thanks," I smile back at her with appreciation, "I don't really know how it happened, though. I thought I'd drop in rank after everything."\nMirko's face softens, understanding crossing her features. "Your rank is based on the heroic things you've done plus public approval. You risked your life for someone you love. The fact that your relationship with her was unconfirmed until tonight drew even more interest toward you. You impressed a lot of heroes too. And the way she looks at you... it would make anyone jealous. You have something special, Fat. You deserve everything good that's come your way."\nPride blooms in my chest. If Mirko thinks that, it has to be true. She's nothing if not blunt, sometimes painfully so.\nShe and I never really had anything very emotionally deep, more like friends with benefits and colleagues with a healthy respect for each other. Being with Aiko has made it all the more obvious that what I had with Mirko was never- and never would've been- serious.\n"Thanks, Mirko." I give her a big bear hug and she pats me on the belly, "You know, Aiko was rather taken with you."\nBacking up from the hug, she quirks a brow at me. "Oh? Really now? And what are your thoughts on that?"\nI can't hide my scheming smile as I look down at my sweet bunny friend. I don't know Aiko's history with being with more than one person at a time and I definitely wouldn't want to risk someone else getting hurt before she's figured out how to control her quirk. But maybe after...\n"I have... some ideas..."\n--\nBlack inky creatures tower over me as I lay on a concrete floor. It's no longer necessary for them to even keep me tied up. I can't move anyway. I'm too weak; starved and broken.\nJust the thought of her face- the way her pastel eyes shined at me right before she kissed me, the way she looked like she might cry when I told her I had more to tell her- is the thing that keeps me pushing forward day to day.\n"Why would she pick him over me?" A half-mad voice rages, the man's back still turned to me.\nI can hardly remember who it is anymore or why he hates me so much. I just have to get back to her. I have to tell her how sorry I am.\n"You ruined everything! I'm trying to keep her safe and she hates me! Because of you!"\nHe begins to turn toward me, something long and slender in his hand, like the handle of a mop.\nA jarring ringing pierces my ears and I'm almost instantly awake, already aware it's pretty late in the day just by the way the sun shines in my window.\nUgh, that dream... It's already fading away but I'm so sure it's a memory. One that's been blocked in my mind since I recovered. It's for the best, though. I don't want to remember. What I do already is more than enough.\nThe ringing comes again and I roll onto my side to face my bedside table, my phone laying atop it.\nNot even checking the caller ID, I pick it up and answer groggily.\n"Hello?"\nThere's a momentary pause. Then, "Taishiro, were you still asleep when I called? Do you know what time it is?"\nAh crap.\n"Oh. No, Mom, I didn't sleep in until this time," I lie to keep her from judging me too harshly. I may be grown but that doesn't keep her scoldings from being any less painful.\n"I know when you're lying, Tai," she says in a clipped tone, "You're still coming to dinner tonight, right? You didn't forget again, did you?"\nI 100% forgot again. Aiko's been keeping my schedule organized lately. I should probably have just told her about these dinners so she could've written them on my calendar but that would've meant inviting her to them like my mother asked me to. And while I want to do that, I don't know just how involved she wants to be with me yet. I don't know how fast she wants things to move. We just got together but it feels like we've been more than friends for a long time now.\nRegardless, I'm still going to have to go tonight.\n"Yes," I sigh with exasperation, "I remember. I'm coming and-"\n"Are you bringing your new lady friend?"\nWhy does she have to call her a "lady friend"?\n"That's not up to me. I haven't even asked her yet." Though now I'm going to have to explain it to her after having this conversation in front of her. I can tell she's listening in by how soft her breathing has gotten.\n"Well ask her now. She's right there, isn't she?"\nIs she frickin spying on me? Did she hide cameras in my room or something the last time she was over here?\n"No, she's not."\nI'm so sure my mom wouldn't approve if she knew Aiko stayed the night here. It's not something that's very frowned upon anymore but my mom tends to be pretty old-fashioned and, even if she weren't, I'm her son. She wouldn't want a girl she hadn't even met yet to stay the night, no matter how much I've told her I adore her.\n"Why don't you want to ask her? Do you not want me to meet her? I'm not dumb. I know she's-"\n"She's not here, mom," I cut her off. Oh god, what am I doing? She's going to murder me. Am I so protective of this woman in my bed that I'd incur my mother's wrath for her? "She doesn't spend the night. I'm-"\n"Are you lying to your mother?!"\nOh yeah, I've done it now. Her voice is starting to get shrill.\n"No. I'm not lying!" I insist, though I'm sure the waver in my voice is giving it away.\n"Toyomitsu Taishiro, you better cut your shenanigans out right now and ask that girl to dinner before I come over there and make your day far worse!"\nShe's not quite yelling but she's gotten loud enough that my ear rings in the silence after.\n"Geez, Christ's sakes, Mom. Fine. Just a sec."\nThe last thing I need is my mom bursting through the door and telling me off in front of Aiko. That's what I get for giving her a key "in case of emergencies."\nTurning around, I see her already sitting up, watching me intently. Her hair is a mess and one of her wings is partially stretched out. And yet she looks so beautiful wrapped up in my sheets. The glint in her eye is amused, even though I'm terrified.\n"I'm sorry I didn't bring this up before but things were just so.... new and we were figuring it all out but... my mom's having her monthly dinner and she wants me to bring you. I'm so sorry to spring this on you."\nShe stares at me, stunned.\nThat can't be a good look. I must've been right after all. It is too soon to ask her to meet my mom.\n"Your- Your mom knows about me?"\nI can't keep my brow from creasing in response. That's the first thing she asks? Is that what surprised her?\n"Why wouldn't she know about my girlfriend?"\nI've been telling my mom about Aiko practically since I first started being friendly with her. I never really told her how I felt about her but she guessed as much fairly easily because, ya know, moms.\nAiko blinks at me, confusion on her face.\nOh boy, this is another one of those situations she didn't expect to be valued as much as she is.\nIt always frustrates me to see her expecting worse treatment than she deserves. The things she must've gone through to expect that. The things she tells herself...\nIt's been a while since I've seen her act this way though. I had hoped she'd finally come to understand just how much she means to me and everyone else around her.\nThen her whole demeanor shifts and she gets that expression that I always feel so blessed to see. Her genuine smile hits me right in the chest.\nWhen I first met her, she was beautiful and sexy and confident in a way most beautiful women tend to be, but she always seemed so afraid of letting me see her softer sides. She would always look at me with terrified eyes any time I learned something new about her as though it would drive me away. I'm not even sure she knew how scared she looked. If only she knew I just wanted to hold onto her tighter.\nNow I rarely see those terrified eyes. Even when she's vulnerable with me, she knows she can trust I won't leave her alone.\n"Yeah..." she says finally, "Ok, I can go."\nRelief floods me and I grin at her before turning back to the conversation at hand.\n"She says she'll come, mom."\n"See? Was that really so hard?"\nTechnically, no, it wasn't hard but she doesn't know that she just pushed me to abruptly ask Aiko to take a pretty big step in our relationship.\nI sigh into the receiver, "I'll see you later tonight. Will you still make me some takoyaki? And maybe some healthier options for Aiko?"\nThere's a slight pause before she answers and I can practically hear her smile. What's changed her mood so suddenly?\n"Of course, my baby boy. Be here around seven."\n"Thanks, mom," I say, encouraged by her kind tone, "I love you."\n"Love you too, sweetness." She makes kissy sounds before hanging up and I turn back to the- still naked- beauty in my bed.\n"Thanks for humoring her. Sorry I kinda put you on the spot there," I tell her with a small amount of shame. It's still a little exciting that she actually said she'd come, though. Aiko's going to meet my mother.\nShe crawls out from under the covers, fully revealing her nude form, and I take in all of the welts and bruises and bite marks peppering her body.\nI did that to her... and she loved it.\nIt's one thing to see marks on her body that someone else made in an effort to harm her. Seeing these marks I left because we were enjoying each other, and she was actively encouraging me to do so, is something else entirely. These are proof of just how much she trusts me with her body. Every single scratch and purplish blotch is a mark of love, affection, adoration. And with the way she shows no shame in them, it says she feels the same.\nI'm still amazed that she endured my energy and kept up with me entirely, though. I wasn't sure if she would really let me unleash myself entirely upon her. But she matched my energy the whole night through. It was probably the best night of my life. Well, maybe second best.\n"You seem... nicer this morning," she smirks, humor alighting in her eyes.\n"You had fun last night?" I ask, already knowing the answer. Just one look at the way she radiates happiness tells me everything I need to know.\nShe nods. "Maybe we could do it again sometime."\nMy heart leaps at her suggestion. She would do it again! She really did enjoy it as much as I did.\nThis woman... may very well be the love of my life. The thought burrows into my mind and takes root and, surprisingly, it doesn't scare me one bit.\n"God, I love you," I blurt out, hardly able to filter my thoughts from coming out of my mouth.\nHer smile just gets wider. She's practically glowing with delight.\n"I love you," she shoots back and lays her head on my chest as she snuggles closer.\nNothing has ever been more precious to me than this lovely woman in my arms. Nothing ever will be. She has me bewitched completely and I can only hope that these feelings won't scare her whenever I up and blurt those out too.\n

Chapter 23:\nMy wings are twitching involuntarily as we ride the train a few stops over to a more suburban area on the outskirts of Osaka. I'm willing them to stop announcing just how nervous I am but that only makes it worse.\nWhen I start picking at my nails Taishiro's large warm hand covers my two smaller ones and he puts his other arm around me.\n"It's okay. She's not mean. She won't hate you," he whispers into my ear.\nI nod like I understand but my stomach feels like it's flipping all around my midsection.\nWhat if she does, though? What if she thinks I'm not good enough for her amazing, beautiful son who could have anyone but somehow managed to choose me of all people? What if she can't forgive me for nearly getting him killed? Does she even know about that? There's no way she wouldn't, right?\nI can barely swallow as my throat feels like it's tightening up with fear.\nTaishiro pulls me closer to him, the softness of his body pillowing me, and my wings finally relax as I rest my head on him for the rest of the ride.\nStepping off the train, I'm glad it's a rather brisk, windy day. The weather has been getting colder lately and the chill in the air promises the first snow of the season will be here soon.\nIt gives me an excuse to wear long sleeves and pants that conceal my bruises. I would've worn them regardless but at least now I don't look odd for doing so.\nTaishiro's sporting the hoodie I gave him for his birthday, the hood pushed back in the way I initially told him looked good on him. I'm glad he also finally has an excuse to wear that. It really does fit him well.\nMy mind wanders back to that day. How he lifted me and, quite literally, swept me off my feet. How I ran my hands through his hair. How I hugged him, not wanting him to think I was afraid of him. Was that the first day I started falling for him, who he really was? No... I'm fairly certain my heart was already bound to be lost the moment he called my name and saved me from being harassed when we were shooting that commercial. Even then, I knew he was different, special.\n"So what's your mom like?" I ask him quietly, as though if my voice were any louder it might reach her and would tell her exactly where we were and how horrible of a person I've been in the past.\nTaishiro's broad smile grows brighter and I can see him reliving things as he looks off into the distance.\n"Well, she's beautiful for one," he answers almost immediately, "She's always supported me being a hero. After dad passed away when I was ten, she worked hard to keep us afloat. She's the best person I know. I think she'll love you."\n"I... I didn't know your father passed away," I breathe out, blindsided by this new information, "I'm sorry."\nA sadness passes over his eyes and I can tell that he probably hadn't meant to let it slip or for me to latch onto it. But he was ten. It must've been one of the most devastating things to happen to him.\n"It was a long time ago. But I still miss him every day and hope he's proud of me. I got my quirk from him."\nI press myself closer to him, trying to be comforting. Then a thought comes to me. His father and mother raised him to be the man he is today. They taught him to be kind and caring while still being strong and a leader. I'm still nervous to meet his mother but if she had a hand in raising him, especially doing so on her own for some of his most formative years, she won't be as judgemental as I feared. She's probably a wonderful person.\nThe way he gushes about his mom pulls at the strings in my heart. It's so obvious how much he loves and respects her. There's bitter sweet warmth I feel at that, wishing my mother could've been the same.\n"I'm sure both of your parents are proud. You've done so much and helped so many people."\nTaishiro smiles down at me, only a small amount of sadness lingering.\n"She will love you," he says softly as he squeezes me lightly, "I know she will."\n--\nOnly a few scant minutes later, Taishiro presses the doorbell on a small house situated along a quiet street.\nA young blonde man, probably no older than 21, opens the door with a grin.\n"Tai!"\nMy eyes widen both in surprise and confusion.\n"Haru!" Taishiro greets with excitement, "Glad to see you made it too!"\nHaru? Who the hell is Haru?\nThe young man, Haru, shifts his attention to me and when our eyes meet, I see his are a very pale gold. Who is this man?\n"Ai-chan, this is my actual brother, Haruto."\nI give Taishiro an incredulous look. He does have a brother? Given, Haruto doesn't look a lot like him. He's shorter in stature, has more of a pretty face than Taishiro's masculine one. But his eyes are similar, he has that same angular nose, and of course the light blonde hair. He also seems to keep it short rather than let it stay messy like Taishiro does.\n"Nice to meet you, Fujisaki-san," Haruto bows, a warm smile on his face.\n"Same to you," I bow back politely.\n"I'm glad aniki finally brought you around. He didn't tell me much more than that he was madly-"\n"Ah, well let's get inside and get a little warmer shall we?" Taishiro cuts him off in a way I haven't seen him do very often.\nHaruto snorts. "Sure. Mom is still busy in the kitchen. Go say hi."\nHe steps aside to let us in and we make our way into the house, sliding our shoes off as we step fully inside.\n"Is that Tai?" a sweet, chirpy voice calls from out of sight.\n"Yes, Mom!" Both men call at the same time and I can't help but chortle at that. They're too cute.\nLight footsteps sound as a tall blonde woman rounds the corner.\nTaishiro was right, she is beautiful. Her hair is more of a honey gold compared to her sons and her eyes are a deep, sapphire blue. She's not slender but she's also not as full-bodied as Taishiro. I would say voluptuous is a better word.\nShe should be at least 50 but she still looks far too young for these two to be her sons.\n"You don't... also have a sister you haven't told me about, do you?" I say under my breath to the man at my side.\nTaishiro's full-bellied laugh puts me more at ease. "No! I'm sure she would like that you think she looks like she could be my sister, though."\n"Is this her?" she asks, eyeing me with interest.\nTaishiro nods. "Yes. Mom, this is Fujisaki Aiko. Aiko, this is my mom."\nThis is her. This is the woman who raised the man I love. The only other person who could possibly love him more than I do. The one who has every right to throw me out of her house for the pain I've caused her family.\nDoes she hate me? Does she know how little I deserve her son just by looking at me?\nMy nerves have me locked in place as I watch her assess me. Her eyes aren't unkind, just analytical, but I move slightly closer to Taishiro on instinct.\nI realize I should say something and am barely able to speak. My airways feel so tight.\n"Thank you... for inviting me, ma'am." It's choked and I don't quite sound like myself.\nA familiar warm smile spreads across her face then and she walks closer, taking my hands in hers. "It's my pleasure, dear. I'm so happy to finally meet you. Please come in and relax. We should have dinner finished soon. Taishiro," she turns her gaze upon her oldest son who straightens slightly, "come help me finish these takoyaki since you want them so bad."\n"Sure thing, mamma," he says, giving her a kiss on the cheek as he moves past her.\n"Haru," now her eyes fall on her youngest son, "I'm low on tonkastu sauce. Can you go get some for me really quick?"\n"I can go," I offer, "I saw a store on the way here. I don't mind."\nTaishiro makes a face that says he wants to object but he holds himself back. He knows he's being protective and a little bit paranoid. I should be safe walking a few blocks. No one even knows we're here. He also knows he can't make these choices for me. If I want to go to the store for his mom, he can't stop me.\n"Sure! That works just as well. Go ahead and get some milk while you're there too." Taishiro's mother beams at me, not noticing the small exchange that's passed between us.\nHaruto hasn't missed it though.\n"Mind if I come along?" he asks innocently, though I see the palpable relief in Taishiro's face, "There are a few things I'd like to get anyway."\n"No, you're welcome to come." I smile and start to walk back out into the chilly air. Motioning for him to come along, I glance back toward Taishiro, "We'll be back in a few minutes."\nHe nods, his expression considerably less anxious despite the fact that his brother is clearly not a hero. I'm sure he trusts him to take care of me, though, and that's enough.\nHeading back down the street now, Haruto is mostly silent. For how conversational Taishiro is, I expected him to immediately start trying to fill the silence with conversation, asking questions or just making small talk. But he seems content to just walk beside me, a pleasant, open expression on his face.\nI'm feeling awkward though. This is Taishiro's actual brother. Someone who grew up with him, knows him intimately, and obviously likes to give him a hard time if our greeting was any indication.\n"So..." I begin, twisting one hand into the other, "I didn't know Taishiro had a brother. Well- I mean- technically I did- or I thought I did- but it turned out who I thought was his brother was just him in his smaller form and when I found out they were the same person, I once again didn't know he had a brother."\nHaruto smirks at me, his brows angling down in amusement. "That sounds like an interesting story. What happened? You fell for them both at the same time?"\nHis smirk grows into a grin as I flush, ducking my head.\n"He honestly didn't tell me much about you either. He only really talks to Mom about these things- girls and all. The only reason I probably know anything is because of his hospital stay and the fact that he was hurt trying to save you."\nMy embarrassment shrinks into shame when he brings that up, my wings drooping.\n"You saw him when he was in the hospital?" I ask hesitantly, anxiety laying a heavy weight on my chest.\n"Yeah," he says solemnly, "Mom was a complete wreck. The moment we got there, the nurses told us that he was most likely gonna be okay and all we could do was wait for him to wake up. Tai's a fighter so I knew he'd pull through but Mom refused to leave him alone, even though he was unconscious the whole time. I mostly stayed to keep her company and make sure she wasn't gonna have some kind of breakdown."\nThe pressure on my chest only gets heavier as he tells me how his mother reacted.\nShe was devastated. She had to see her son so horribly injured. And she still invited me and greeted me with warmth? How does she not hate me?\n"Hey," reality comes back to me when Haru speaks up again, "You seem upset now. I shouldn't have told you about that. Don't worry about it. Tai is okay now and everything is fine. Mom doesn't blame you."\nI blink a couple times, trying to put a less strained expression on my face. "Sorry, I just... I still feel bad about it."\n"Don't. You saved him." he chuckles quietly, "That's what I know about you. He tried to save you, you saved him instead, and he's batshit crazy about you."\nA bit of that weight is relieved as I smile back. I'm glad Haruto is being so understanding and kind but I still think that I owe something to his mother. Maybe later I could get a chance to formally apologize to her. She deserves that much.\nSuddenly, a face I never imagined I'd ever see around here shows up, walking in our direction.\nManami! What is she doing here?!\nThen I realize that she knew about Fat Gum because she'd gone to his junior high school. It stands to reason that she could be from the same area he is.\nI haven't forgotten what Taishiro told me about her asking him to dinner. She's interested in him... She might've been interested for longer than I have.\nI can't face her. I don't know how I would react. I don't know how she might react now that it's public knowledge we're together.\nIt's cowardly of me but I turn to the closest shop and rush inside, dragging Haruto by the shirt as I do.\nHe makes a "bwaaAaAaAa" sound as he stumbles after me, having to bend over to catch himself.\n"What's going on?" Haruto asks with extreme bewilderment, trying to straighten out his clothing.\n"Sorry," I say breathlessly as the door swings shut behind him, "I saw someone out there I didn't want to see me."\nAt that, panic sweeps over his face. "Like someone bad? Should I call Tai?"\n"No! No!" I assure him, pushing his hand away as he pulls out his phone, "Not like that. It was just a coworker."\nHaruto's form visibly relaxes and his confusion returns.\n"Oh. Okay..."\n"I introduced her to Taishiro the last time I saw her and she asked him to dinner. I don't know what to say to her now."\n"Ooohhhhh," he says with interest, "feeling territorial. I see..."\n"No, that's not-"\n"Hello you two! Welcome to Cuddle Cafe!"\nI nearly choke as my eyes widen in horror.\n"C-cuddle?"\n"Yes!" The hostess motions to a sign with the words Cuddle Cafe. Cuddle with your sweetheart in comfort.\nNooooo... This can't be happening...\nHaruto's face turns a bright shade of pink and the cool, collected facade he's had going on this whole time dissolves before my eyes.\n"Oh no, that's- We're- She's my brother's-"\nThe woman's eyes narrow slightly at us and I feel the need to jump in before he gets us into more of a bind.\n"I'm sorry, I think we accidentally walked into the wrong place. We were looking for the grocery store?"\n"Right! That's right!" Haruto hedges, clearly flustered and unable to stop words from coming out of his mouth apparently, "This is not what it looks like. That is to say, we're not having an affair. We just accidentally walked in here. Nothing suspicious is going on."\nWell I'm sure that convinced her...\nIt's minorly entertaining that he's become this huge ball of nerves and awkwardness. I'd originally found him to seem pretty calm and collected, possibly a little more serious than Taishiro though not cold. Now I'm finding that while he may seem more serious, he falls apart when his anxiety grabs hold of him.\nIt makes me wonder if Taishiro might see his younger brother in another anxiety-ridden boy we know.\n"I'm sorry," I repeat, "It really isn't like that. Can you just tell us where the grocery store is? Then we'll be on our way."\nI watch her expectantly as though she should give me directions.\nShe blinks a couple times, looking between myself and the nervous man next to me. Then, I suppose finally determining that we're not lying, her demeanor finally changes to be friendly again.\n"I see," She says with more hospitality, though I'm sensing that she's still feeling a little judgemental. "Yes, the grocery store is actually another block down."\nGlancing out the door, I'm hoping Manami has already passed so we can exit without having to face her.\nWhen I poke my head out, she's nowhere in sight and relief floods me.\nI know I'm being childish and I'm willing to bet she wouldn't hold anything against me, but her behavior isn't really what worries me.\nJust thinking back on how she touched Taishiro, how much I wanted to hurt her because she was touching the man that I didn't even know I wanted, how shaken I was to realize I could lose him... I don't think my own behavior would be appropriate.\n"Thank you," I look back and smile gratefully, giving a small bow before turning to head out the door. Haruto follows me out, running his fingers through his once well-gelled hair that's now become mussed.\nWe emerge back out onto the walkway and continue our journey to the grocery store.\n"Well, that was awkward," I chuckle with relief, glad to finally be out from under that lady's gaze.\n"Sorry, I'm just..." he trails off, unsure what to say he is for sure.\n"It's fine, I tease Taishiro when he gets flustered all the time." I smile, remembering all the times I've watched his plump cheeks go red and only wanting to egg him on more.\n"I don't know if I've ever seen him like that. Not like I am at least," Haruto scratches at his cheek, appearing less confident now that I've seen another side of him- a side he seems pretty embarrassed about.\n"Oh, he has his moments."\nHaruto makes a face at me that says he has an idea of the "moments" I'm speaking of and he does not want to hear more.\nBut now his confidence is returning and, after the embarrassment we mutually faced, our conversation comes more easily now.\nWe continue on our errand and, by the end, I'm thankful he came and am glad we got to get to know each other better.\nHe makes me feel welcome and is nothing but kind and respectful. He's another good man. Their mother sure knows how to raise 'em. It makes me wonder how I could possibly compare to such an amazing woman or how wanting she really finds me.\n--\nThe spread of food that Mrs. Toyomitsu has laid out on the table is amazing!\nThere's the usual fried fish, rice, soup, and a sprout salad, but she's also made the takoyaki with all of the fixings, some beautifully grilled shrimp, and a number of other things I can't wait to try.\nAfter thanking her for the lovely meal, we all begin pulling food onto our plates with chopsticks and chowing down.\n"So something interesting happened today while we were out," Haruto begins as he's still picking out what to eat and my eyes immediately snap to him. Is he really about to tell this story? In front of his mother and everything?!\n"Oh? And what's that?" Taishiro asks with real interest when he sees my reaction, his chin resting on his fist as his elbow comes up to the table.\nHis mother doesn't even say anything- just gives him a look- and his elbow is immediately off the table again.\n"We accidentally walked into a dating cafe," I say first, arching a brow at Haruto in challenge. If we're telling the story, I'm gonna tell it my way.\n"You what?!" Both Taishiro and his mother exclaim at once, shock written on both of their faces.\nHaruto's face blanches. Apparently he hadn't expected me to get right to the point.\n"I- It was her fault!" pointing his chopsticks at me, "She was running away from some girl she saw on the street!"\nHis anxiety has returned in full swing. He's caving like a house of cards!\n"Running away?" Taishiro asks me with some degree of concern.\nHeat rises to my cheeks. Haruto just had to bring this up. I wish I could've just told Taishiro about all this in private.\n"Not like that..." I assure him quietly, unwilling to meet his gaze, "I just saw Manami and I... I just didn't want to deal with her."\nTaishiro's rough fingers cover mine under the table. "That's okay. You don't have to if you don't want to."\nHis words encourage me enough to look up at him again and my heart blooms with warmth as I get lost in his golden gaze.\n"Take your time. Facing her isn't important right now."\nI smile, feeling less ashamed, and he lightly runs a few fingers through my hair.\n"Ugh. I know you two are... a thing, but you could be less obvious," Haruto says with annoyance.\nI look away from Taishiro, my cheeks burning hotter. I hadn't intended for that moment to become so intimate but something about the gigantic man beside me just completely breaks down all of my barriers any time I look at him.\n"And how did Haru take being in the dating cafe?" Taishiro asks, throwing the pressure off of my embarrassment and onto his brother, "Let me guess. He lost all composure and started word-vomiting everywhere."\nThe offended expression on Harutos face is priceless as I snort. I haven't heard him be so blunt before but he seems to have the gloves off when it comes to tete a tetes with his brother.\nAs I recount the story a little more succinctly, Taishiro howls with laughter while Haruto scowls, a light blush spreading across his cheeks.\nWhen I finally get up the courage to glance at Mrs. Toyomitsu, she's watching her sons with an amused expression on her face. She doesn't seem upset like I'd feared.\nI'm able to relax knowing that and still having my hand curled in Taishiro's.\nA few minutes pass of Taishiro going back and forth with his brother before the conversation lulls and Mrs. Toyomitsu takes this opening to begin a new conversation... with me.\n"So Aiko-chan, Tai has yet to tell me how you two met."\nI have to stop myself from instinctively looking over at Taishiro. If I do, I might as well be advertising that our meeting is of a rather... embarrassing nature.\nInstead, I take a couple seconds to finish chewing my food and swallow, thinking frantically about what I should leave in, before I answer.\n"Well, we actually met in a really interesting way," I say, trying to act calm as my tail seems to wring itself with anxiety, "Some drunk guy was harassing me and Taishiro was about to save me from him but I saved myself before he could. He still took the time to make sure I was okay, though."\nA smile comes to my face recalling how he towered so high above me and just how dumbstruck I was by him. We made it here out of a chance meeting across town and because I took that leap of faith going to see him again.\n"After that, we were friends for a while and recently things.... changed I guess."\nThere's no way I can include that I thought he was two different people, though. What would she think of me?\n"And now we're here," Taishiro adds with a grin as if to put a period at the end of the story.\n"I see," she continues on, "And what does your family think of you dating a hero?"\nMy smile falters and I have no hope of catching it in time before it's noticed by everyone at the table.\n"Well," I grip the fabric of my pants as three sets of eyes watch me, "It was just me and my mom... But she doesn't know. Not that I wouldn't want her to. But, I suppose she wouldn't care if she did."\nUnderstanding crosses each of their faces and the sympathy there is unbearable. I got over that hurt a long time ago. I don't have a mom, I have a manager. I don't have a family, I have my career.\nBut... that's not true anymore, is it? I do have a family now. The Fat Gum Agency family.\nTaishiro's given me as near a family as I'll ever get and every single one of those people not only approve, they're ecstatic! That's the only family I'll ever need.\nTaishiro sighs deeply, "Her manager definitely doesn't approve, though."\nHe's moving the conversation away from something that's sensitive for me and I can't be thankful enough. If I had to see their pitying eyes focused on me for one more second, I'm afraid I might've left the room. Instead, he's started on a topic that I'm all too happy to harp on.\n"It's a good thing she's not family then," I say, rolling my eyes, "She's only worried about what'll affect her bottom line. It's not you specifically, she doesn't think I should be in a relationship with anyone. She says it 'ruins my image'."\nWe'd had this conversation before when I'd been considering a relationship with Kenji. I'm sure what she really meant when she said that, though, was "it will put off men who like to fantasize about you." Which is obviously disgusting.\nLucky for her last time, Kenji soon found out about my quirk after that and left me. Not so lucky for her this time, Taishiro wasn't so easily scared off.\n"Don't worry about her," I say, looking at Taishiro but also addressing the other two seated at the table, "She can't dictate my life and if she tries to get in the way, I'll take care of her. I don't think she will, though."\nI'm not worried about my feelings toward Taishiro being so apparent as he squeezes my hand lightly under the table and I lean slightly closer to his massive form.\n"Well we can't keep yapping about this stuff all night," Mrs. Toyomitsu says not unkindly, "Finish up your food and then maybe I'll pull out some old pictures of Tai for you."\n"Mom!" Taishiro exclaims, his cheeks turning a sweet pink shade, "Don't do this to me! Come on! She doesn't need to see old pictures today. Maybe some other time."\nHis mother's grin grows wider, into a more devilish smile, "Oh, but she wants to! Right Aiko?"\nI'm startled that I've been asked something about this but I nod. I'm not at all going to go against what the head of this household says. "I'd love to!"\nTaishiro's back slumps and a huge sigh escapes him as he goes back to his food and seems like he's stuffing his mouth all the more like it's his last meal.\nThose pictures must be something else. Now I'm getting kinda excited to see them. What is he wanting to hide? Why is he so embarrassed? The usual naked baby pictures can't be all that bad, right? Maybe he's got some old pictures of him in halloween costumes he's ashamed of now. Don't we all, though?\nReleasing his hand, I pat his leg as if to say "It's gonna be fine" before going back to my food.\n--\n"Here it is!" Taishiro's mom comes out with a photo album that is positively gigantic and bulging with pictures. It's probably got the widest spine I've ever seen an album have and yet it's still not big enough to contain what's in it. She has to carry it with two hands as though it weighs a ton.\nWhen she sets it in front of me on the table, it rattles the whole thing and Taishiro winces.\nPulling her own chair up next to mine, she reaches for it. "Okay, here we go!"\nShe opens the cover and I gasp, immediately leaning closer to get a better look.\nHis mother is a scrapbooker! The pages are laid out with the precise eye of a professional graphic designer with soft blue stickers of baby toys, a light yellow paper accenting the background, and even some keepsakes like a scrap of his hospital blanket and the much faded now ankle tag. The pictures are kept in mint condition and display mostly him as a newborn sleeping, yawning, crying, and there a few of him in his mother's arms as well as in the arms of a very tall, handsome man with platinum blonde hair and a jawline that's keenly familiar to me. Taishiro's father.\nThe way these pages are so painstakingly crafted tells me just how precious these memories are to her and how much she loves her sons, as well as how much she loved her husband. It makes my chest swell with heartache, both sad and joyous. They're happy here, even as she flips through to a little older Taishiro who's lifting his head and learning to roll over and grinning a little gummy grin.\nI look up at Taishiro briefly to find an exasperated, yet amused, look on his face. He knows I'm going to want to see this whole book. He knows I love it. He's known that his mother and I have very similar interests when it comes to this and we're going to be talking about it for a long, long time. He's not embarrassed. He just didn't want to be here all night.\n"Taishiro tells me you like plannering," Mrs. Toyomitsu says as though she's read my mind, "He even asked me if you would like a stationary set he'd picked out for you. That's how I figured out his interest in you. He's such a sweet boy."\n"I did like it. I use it all the time! Thank you for helping him," I reply, feeling a little choked up that he was telling his mom about me for that long. That's how he immediately knew I enjoyed filling out my planner. Scrapbooking and plannering and journaling, while not exactly the same, often go hand in hand and you'll find that people who like to planner will also like scrapbooking, and vice versa, especially since they already have most of the supplies needed. I myself would probably be interested in scrapbooking if I had any memories to scrapbook. But what would I have to commemorate? My modelling career? I have loved my profession but I have no interest in making a book full of my lingerie spreads.\n"And here he is on his first day of kindergarten," she flips a page and Taishiro is there with his messy blonde hair squashed under a cute little cap, grinning widely once more in front of his elementary school. There are stickers everywhere that say "First Day of School!" Then, there are some pages of his school year and a big spread of his last day of kindergarten that compares him to the first. He'd grown so much in that time.\nThe pages continue on like that for a while. First day of school, the school year, last day of school. In there somewhere are pictures of when he lost his first tooth and when he decided he was for sure going to be a hero that are absolutely adorable. Any time he's in a picture of another kid in his class, it's already apparent that he's quite large for his age.\nI can't place my finger on it, but something seems different about his smile as a child. He still grins just as widely and seems happy enough. What's different? Why can't I figure it out?\nThe year his little brother is born, there are more pages and pictures than ever of him holding him and shaking toys in front of him, even one of him wearing him in a little baby carrier at the zoo and pointing out animals. I absolutely love every second of seeing this part of him. Caring for his little brother was probably how he discovered he enjoyed mentoring his juniors.\nThen, near the end of his elementary school years, the photos become less frequent and the decorations more sparse. There are only two pages of his 5th grade year. The first day and the last day. And while he's still smiling in them, there's something more subdued and forced about it.\nHis father doesn't appear in any more pictures after that.\nBut the pictures begin to pick back up in frequency when he starts junior high and one page opens up to show him with a full set of shiny silver braces on his teeth and I finally get it. That's what was different! Before, his teeth were slightly misaligned, here he has braces, and now...\nI glance up at him again and he grins sheepishly, his teeth white, perfectly straight and beautiful.\n"Yeah... It was an awkward year for me," he chuckles, rubbing at the back of his neck.\n"You were cute with them," I assure and his mom nods in agreement.\n"You should've heard how he talked the first few weeks he had them in, it was the cutest little lisp," she covers her chest with her hand, harkening back to those memories, and I giggle.\n"Why, Mom? Why would you tell her that?" Taishiro's voice is awash with embarrassment and he just hides his face in his hand when I try to see his expression again.\nAll Might, why is he so adorable? Even now?\nAs we continue on through the years, we get to one of the most interesting parts thus far: his acceptance and beginning of the hero course at Shiketsu. It's here where I see him begin to fill out a bit more, though nowhere near how large he is now. When did he fully commit his body to this quirk I wonder?\nI see him go from being a boy to becoming a man right before my eyes. He gets even taller and he dwarfs his mother, brother, and classmates any time they're in the same photo. His muscles and strength become more apparent when I see him lifting weights in a gym, everyone around him looking dubious at the kilograms he's hauling up.\nAt his graduation, he's begun to look more like the man I've come to know, complete with a costume similar to the one he wears at work now.\nThe pictures become fewer then, probably because he moves out and can't be caught on film as often. His mother is also very likely sad to see him go.\nBut on the pages remaining, she still gets pictures of him in his costume and at dinners much like the one we just had, laughing and joking with his brother, who's also beginning to grow up. She's also begun collecting newspaper and magazine clippings that report on him.\nNear the end, I see Tamaki join the photos here and there, always looking unwilling and being pulled into the frame anyway. Then, Red shows up with his wide, sharp grin to match Taishiro's.\nOn the last page is a picture from his birthday that just past. In it, he's standing at the front of his agency wearing the hoodie I gave him with Tamaki, Red, and Maki. And I'm there too, standing next to him, my head tilted slightly toward him and looking happier than I've ever seen myself in most pictures. The first picture with me in it. The start of something new.\nSeeing this picture pulls at my heartstrings painfully. I wasn't expecting to see myself here. I remember taking this picture but I didn't realize it would be here, surrounded by a bunch of washi tape that reads "Happy Birthday!" and balloon stickers and some that have the number 30 on them.\nIt reaffirms my status. It tells me just how welcome I am here and in every other facet of his life.\n"Thank you so much for showing me this," I choke out, "It's beautiful."\n"I'm so glad you liked it!" Mrs. Toyomitsu smiles, closing the cover and lifting it back up off the table to put back.\nHaruto, who had excused himself from having to sit through this affair, calls Taishiro into the living room, claiming he wants him to see whatever's on the TV- apparently it's something hilarious.\nI tell him to go ahead, I'll stay behind to not make it seem like we abandoned his mother when she returns.\nSo he heads off down the hall as I get up to walk around the cozy room which, I notice, is also littered with a lot of family photos, some of which seem to be from before even Taishiro was born.\nI'm inspecting his parents' wedding photo when Mrs. Toyomitsu reenters the room.\n"You want some tea?" she offers kindly.\nI don't know if Taishiro told her I like it or if she offers anyone that beverage but I nod all the same, "Yes, please."\nShe walks into the kitchen to set a kettle on the stove and eyes the picture I've been staring at for the past few minutes.\n"His father was as good a man as he is," she says with warmth, "I'd run into a lot of crappy men before him. So many men out there treat women like an object and then act like it's your fault when you're not okay with that. Daisuke had all the makings of the kind of guy who would seem that way. He was a jock and handsome and came from a fair bit of money. But he respected me and he loved me and his sons with his whole heart. He died in an incident when someone lost control of their quirk. It was so sudden, it was a shock. What was worse was that there was no one to blame. The person who lost control wasn't a villain or evil in any way. It was just an accident and that person lost their life too. The whole thing was tragic."\nIt hits me like a punch to the gut that his father died that way. He died to a person like me with a quirk they couldn't control. Is that why he stayed near me? Is that part of why he's helping me? Is he not afraid that what happened to his father might happen to him?\nThe kettle begins to whistle and Mrs. Toyomitsu turns the burner on the stove off.\n"I'm sorry about your husband. He sounds like an amazing man," I say awkwardly, trying to not say anything that might hurt her inadvertently, "Taishiro said on the way here that he hopes his father's proud of him. I told him that of course he is."\n"Oh, his father probably couldn't be prouder. He supported Taishiro 100% on becoming a hero and taught him everything he could about his quirk in the hopes he might refine it further and do even more with it."\nMy eyes go back to the man in the photograph, now equipped with the new information. He deserved a longer life. I have to make sure his son gets at least that much.\nMrs. Toyomitsu comes up behind me and lays a hand on my arm as to not startle me as she hands me a mug with freshly steeped tea, then motions for me to sit back down with her.\n"He's done more than I ever imagined. And to be rank 40 in all of Japan?" She shakes her head as she seats herself, "He makes Daisuke and I proud every single day."\nI nod in agreement and we sit in silence for a moment, enjoying our tea.\nIt's at this point that I realize this is my chance so say something to her. To apologize for putting her son in danger and almost causing the loss of yet another family member she loves dearly.\nI take a few breaths, steadying myself before I begin.\n"I..."\nThe moment I say something, she looks up at me and my heart jumps, thundering against my ribcage so hard, it could probably be heard from where she's sitting.\nTaking another deep breath, I start again.\n"I guess you know what happened with Taishiro and me at fashion week. How he tried to rescue me," I tell her and she nods once, her blue eyes meeting mine in question, not fully understanding.\nSwallowing the bile building up in my throat, I go on.\n"I'm sorry... for what I did. Everything I did. Everything I ever brought on Taishiro. Every hurt I brought on you. He deserved... he still deserves... better-"\nHer hand comes down on the table in a loud THUD and I jump at the sudden explosion of sound in the quiet kitchen, my tail straightening to attention. I hadn't expected an outburst like that from her and now my heart is racing faster than ever.\n"Don't say that," she admonishes in a low, furious tone, "Don't say he deserves better. My son chose you. He knows exactly what he deserves. If you don't think you're good enough, then be better."\nShame warms my cheeks as I lower my eyes.\n"I'm trying. I want to be the kind of person who deserves his love. I just... felt like I owe you an apology for being the cause of any harm done to him. I never wanted that for him."\nShe sighs heavily, hand removed from the wood of the table now and back at her mug.\n"I was there every day when I got word that he was in the hospital. I was terrified I would lose my baby boy, even when the doctor told me he would probably make a full recovery," she toys with the mug in front of her, pushing the handle between her hands, "When you're a new mom, they warn you about things like SIDS and how suddenly it can take your baby from you. It makes you paranoid. I would startle awake in the middle of the night sometimes when he was a newborn and rush to check on him to make sure he was still breathing. When the age for SIDS passed, I still found myself checking on him sometimes- although less often- still paranoid I'd come in and find he wouldn't be breathing."\nShe looks down at her drink as though remembering those times bittersweetly and I recall those pictures of a cute, sleeping Taishiro she showed me. She worried for him so much...\n"Even as he got older, at ages three and four, even very rarely as a teenager, I'd come check on him, less paranoid I wouldn't find him breathing but still just... I don't know, just worried. It's something we all do as mothers."\nA small pang of longing and regret pulls at my heart. It's difficult to sit in the same room with a woman who loves her child so much and know that love will never be something I will get to feel. I truly envy her in this moment.\nThen her face turns more solemn and I can practically feel her heart breaking as she goes on.\n"When I saw him in that hospital, all of those fears came back. I couldn't stop worrying. I always had to check on him to make sure he was still breathing. I would wake up some nights in a panic, needing to make sure he was still okay. I couldn't shake it until he finally opened his eyes."\nGuilt and shame rattle around in my chest.\nAnd all I had done was leave him there. I was sure enough he would be okay and I just left him behind. I'm nothing compared to the woman sitting in front of me now.\n"I'm sorry," I say barely above a whisper, the mug she's given me pressed in between my palms, "I'm sorry I didn't stay. I should've. I thought he was afraid of me and I just ran away."\nMrs. Toyomitsu looks up again, smiling sadly.\n"No... it's probably for the best that you didn't stay. When I saw him like that and knew he did it for you... I'm not proud to say I resented you... a lot."\nIt's a gut-punch to hear, especially since she seems like she's been so welcoming up until now. I'm not sure what I should say in response. I open my mouth to at least give another apology but she holds her hand up.\n"When he woke up, though, he was so adamant about seeing you immediately. I could see how strongly he felt about you. It chafed initially but I've never seen him so worked up over anything since him being so sure he wanted to be a hero."\nWarmth blooms throughout my body as I hold my cup even tighter. Even his mom sees how much I mean to him...\n"And now that I've met you, I can see just how much you love him too." She reaches a hand out to take mine as I bring my eyes up to her watery ones, "Don't say he deserves better. You love him. You make him light up like I've never seen him do and when I see how you look at him, I know you love him exactly the way I always knew he should be loved."\nA lump in my throat makes it difficult for me to say something back. I was so nervous to meet her. I was afraid of her judgement and her anger. I was afraid I didn't measure up to her. But none of that matters now. Not when I look into her eyes and see warmth, welcoming, a kindness I know only she must've taught to Taishiro, acceptance.\nShe makes me want to stay here with her and tell her all of my woes, knowing she'll soothe them away. This is what a true mother is like.\nPutting my other hand atop hers, I steel myself for what I want to say next. She's accepting me into her family and approving of my relationship with her son. Shouldn't she know the full extent of how we came to know each other?\n"I wasn't fully honest before about Taishiro and I being friends after he tried to save me the first time we met," I begin in a slightly breathless voice, afraid to see her reaction but wanting the truth to be out there, hoping she'll still accept me all the same.\nConfusion crosses her face but she's still open to hearing me out. "What do you mean?"\n"We met when he was... in his thinner form."\nShe nods her head, understanding what I mean.\n"I was immediately attracted to him then but he asked me to visit him a few days later and I... didn't recognize him when I went there. I was afraid of him. He and I got into an argument and he let me believe that the man I'd met before was gone. We didn't like each other for a while and then... things changed bit by bit and we became friends."\nHer brow furrows at this. Like I expected, she doesn't like this version of events much.\n"Meanwhile, we were still seeing each other when he would visit me as his thinner self. I thought they were two separate people and... I started falling for them both. Everything came to light right before I was kidnapped and I felt so dumb and ashamed. I just wanted you to know. I'm not a great person and I've been shallow and vain in the past but I do love your son. I'm crazy about him. I would do anything for him."\nWhen I'm finished, a look of displeasure marrs her features and my heart plummets. Why did I have to open my big fat mouth and ruin her opinion of me? Now she knows just how superficial and hurtful I've been toward him.\n"I- I'm sorry," I squeak out, "I didn't mean-"\n"Taishiro... lied to you? How long did this go on? How long did you not know?"\nWait. She's asking about him?\n"I'm not sure," I answer honestly, "A couple months maybe?"\n"And he never told you?"\n"He was about to, I think, when I was trying to confess to him how I felt. But then he had to protect me from a monster and ended up using his ultimate ability."\n"That's how you found out?!" she gasps with genuine horror.\nPanic rises in me as I nod slowly. She's upset about him? Not my shallowness?\nWhen she sees the worry and confusion on my face, she calms down a bit.\n"Honey, I know Taishiro is conventionally attractive in his smaller form. I'm surprised more women haven't fallen at his feet by now. It doesn't surprise me that you were interested in that side of him first. It warms my heart all the more that you saw that side of him and you fell for him as he truly is despite that. What I'm really upset about is my SON,"- her eyes dart to the doorway that now holds Taishiro's giant frame in it. When did he get here?- "was lying to you for months!"\n"Mom, I-"\n"Taishiro! You let her think that you were two people? Did you not trust her? How could you say you loved her if you didn't trust her?" She looks disappointed and sad now and Taishiro is shame-faced as he responds.\n"I was just scared, Mom. I didn't want her to reject me and then... I-" he looks at me then, "I didn't want you to hate me like I knew you would."\nAnd when I found out, did I not immediately prove all of his fears right?\n"You needed to take those consequences for your actions like an adult, though, Tai," his mother scolds, "You're a good man. You know who you are. You didn't need to lie. You're lucky she stayed after that."\n"I know," he cuts in quickly, eyes still not leaving mine, "I know I'm lucky."\nMy heart aches. I hadn't meant to get him in trouble. I'd only wanted to be honest about myself.\n"It's okay, though. We've been over all of this before. I forgave him. Because I'm not perfect either and I've made mistakes," I stand and pad toward him, taking his hand in mine to bring to my face, "You're good, Taishiro. And you're exactly who I want and need and deserve."\nA smile breaks over his features, his eyes shining with emotion as he looks down at me. As he always does, he immediately notices the importance of my words. It's the first time I've been willing to say I deserve every bit of happiness he gives me.\n"You do," he pulls me into his plush body, surrounding me in his embrace and sending my wings into a flutter.\n"Ugh, fine," Mrs. Toyomitsu interrupts, "You're off the hook this time, Taishiro, but only because she let you off the hook. But if I hear about you lying to her again, I'll throw you out myself."\nShe's not kidding.\n--\nTaishiro and I say goodnight and make our way back to his apartment a short time later. With how often I've been spending the night there, I don't know why I haven't moved in with him already. But just the thought of it squeezes my stomach into knots. We've only been doing this for a little over a month now. The only reason we really stay at his place is because his bed is more comfortable for him. I couldn't make him stay with me like that.\nA text comes in as we ride the train back across Osaka and I open it to see Tomoyo's trying to set me up with another shoot.\nTomoyo: Do you think you're ready for an actual lingerie shoot? I have someone who wants to book you next week.\nA lingerie shoot... I haven't done one since before. Just thinking about someone photographing me in some small lacy thing makes my blood run cold. I don't know if I'm ready.\nAiko: I'm not sure if I want to have someone taking pictures of me in lingerie anymore.\nI text her honestly and she comes back just a minute later.\nTomoyo: What if the photographer is a woman? Will that help?\nI have to sit back and think about that a little bit longer. I consider myself in that scenario again, having my pictures taken in my underwear but this time it's a woman behind the camera. She's kind and unassuming and makes sure I'm comfortable before she starts. That... wouldn't be so bad.\nAiko: Give me an hour and I'll get back to you.\nTomoyo: No more than an hour. Clients are waiting.\nPutting my phone away, I spot Taishiro watching me with a look of mild concern. I must've been making a face whenever I responded to Tomoyo.\n"What's wrong?" he says softly, trying not to disturb the other passengers.\nIt's easier to just hand him my phone to show him our conversation than to explain. So he takes it and looks over what's been said until our stop is announced and we finally exit the train.\n"Do you want to go back to modelling lingerie? Would a woman photographer make you more comfortable?" he asks in a normal voice as he hands my phone back and we step out onto the street.\nI shrug, "I don't know. Maybe a little. Of course I want to go back to my job but every time I think about someone taking my picture, I'm just reminded of Jared snapping pictures of me in the hellhole. I don't want to think of that, though. I want to just be able to work again, like a normal person. Maybe a woman will help. I can't be sure."\nTaishiro nods in understanding, "Well, if it helps at all, I'll still go with you if that's what you decide you want to do. And then, if it really isn't something you can handle, you can always back out when you get there. Don't let anything your manager says force you into a situation that makes you uncomfortable. If you don't like it, we'll leave."\nHearing him reassure me this way makes me feel more encouraged to try. I can at least try.\nIf I end up not wanting to, I know it'll probably be pretty inconvenient for the photographer and the designer but they would have to be understanding. I'm pushing myself out of my comfort zone for them. I can be given a little grace.\nAiko: Okay. I'll do it if there's a woman photographer and if Fat Gum can still come.\nI can practically hear her exasperation already when Tomoyo answers a moment later.\nTomoyo: Fine, I'll let them know.\nAnd that's that. But Taishiro doesn't allow me the chance to think too hard on what I've just signed up for as he pulls me into his apartment and places me on his bed, his eyes dancing with mischief.\n"Sorry," he says as he nudges my shirt upward, exposing my belly and the soft hickeys he left on it last night, "I just wanted to see them all again. You've been covered up all day."\nI laugh, allowing him to pull my shirt up over my head, "Are you proud of your handy-work?"\nA rough finger pad runs over the still-sensitive bite mark on my neck and I shiver.\n"Yeah," he says gently and his golden eyes are soft with reverence as he lays his head on my chest, "I'm pretty proud of that."\n--\nA little over a week passes and my bruises and scratches and bites are all healed up.\nIt's pretty surprising to me that some of them have healed so quickly without even a hint of a mark left behind. I would've thought that some of them would be left behind for weeks to come and would just have to be covered up by some blushing makeup artist that knew exactly what they were. But no, there's nothing left.\nTrue to his word, Taishiro accompanies me to the set of this lingerie shoot and stepping onto it has actually done a lot to bring my comfort level back up to a manageable place. The familiarity of seeing the girls walk around half-naked and the makeup and hair artists running back and forth as they hurry to fix someone's style, help me get my head back in the game I've been used to for nearly ten years now.\n"Wardrobe first," Tomoyo snaps tersely, whisking me away towards wardrobe and leaving Taishiro to trail behind after us so he can sit outside the door.\nIf it had been anyone else, I think he may have been far less likely to let me out of their sight but, despite how they both seem to dislike each other, Taishiro seems to trust Tomoyo with my care. I don't know if something happened between them that made them come to some understanding after I'd been kidnapped or if he saw, the same as I did, the way she chased Jared as he was dragging me away. Either way, he's okay with letting me out of his sight while she pulls me towards wardrobe and watches while the stylists try to match me up with a rather skimpy lingerie set.\n"You seem healthier than last time," she points out offhandedly, trying to sound less interested than she really is, "Not so dead around the eyes there."\n"Yeah," I answer with a tiny smirk.\nShe watches me, not saying anything else, obviously expecting me to go on without more prompting.\nShe knows me too well.\n"So... I'm dating Fat Gum now."\nTomoyo doesn't look surprised, just heaves a gigantic sigh, defeated, and blinks at me slowly.\n"I'm shocked."\nIs that it? I can understand if she's not surprised but I thought she'd throw a fit and read me the riot act about every single reason she believes it's a bad idea.\n"You're not... angry?"\nVenom pierces the glare she throws at me in response, setting down her phone she'd been tapping away on a moment ago.\n"You know I'm not thrilled," she says, her lips thin with displeasure, "but I also know I can't stop you or talk you out of it. It was pretty obvious you were in love with him for a while. And, at the very least, I know he won't hurt you."\nMy stomach does a tiny flip hearing her assessment, something between embarrassment and heartwarming nostalgia making its way through my body.\n"It was obvious?" I ask, unable to keep my thumbnail from between my teeth.\nTomoyo rolls her eyes as she smacks my hand away from my mouth.\n"'No one thinks we're dating. We're just friends!'" she mocks my former words to her using a nasally falsetto.\nA laugh bursts from me. "I don't sound like that!"\nShe throws a look my way that's both playful and somewhat soft for her. It surprises me.\nTomoyo doesn't often joke with me and even less often shows me genuine affection. She's been doing a lot of both lately and it comforts me in a way I've never thought she could or would.\nI've missed maternal affection. I've missed someone looking out for me simply because they wanted what's best for me, even when their ideals of what that is clash with mine. Tomoyo has other clients she manages but she somehow still makes me feel like a priority for her, like someone she values in her life.\nWhen my laughter dies down I ask her again, "You're really not going to give me grief over this? I know you didn't like him..."\n"I don't dislike him," she corrects me, "I just knew he was after more than friendship from the start. I didn't think you understood that but maybe I misjudged your feelings for him. That was my mistake." She adjusts her oval glasses to sit higher on her nose as she considers her next words. "I know he's not a bad man, Aiko. He's not who I would've chosen for you. I don't know if I would've chosen anyone for you. But if you insist on being in a relationship, I'm pleased to see you with someone who will take care of you. You deserved better than that last guy, Junji or whatever."\n"Kenji."\nShe's right. And suddenly facing those hurtful memories- the things he said, the way he made me feel about myself- isn't so bad anymore. Now I'm glad he found out. I'm glad he showed me his true colors then instead of further down the line. He would've shamed me and made me feel worthless for one thing or another. It was never my fault he treated me that way. It was always his.\n"Yeah, what a piece of shit that guy was," she shrugs.\nI smile. I don't think she even met him. She's only going off of my vague descriptions of how badly he hurt me.\n"You don't have to worry about Fat Gum. He won't do any of that. He's kind and caring and funny and he-"\n"Yeah, yeah, I get it. He's great. He's perfect. Whatever." She waves me off, probably sick of my gushing. "Go get changed. You don't pay me to sit around and have girl talk."\nMy wings flap excitedly as I take the light pink set that's been chosen for me and head toward a changing room.\nMy first shoot back in real lingerie... My chance to prove to myself that I'm still as sexy and capable as I always was, maybe even moreso. Things aren't perfect- I'm not perfect- but I'm sure as hell good enough and I can do this.\n--\nThat night, I'm snuggled up to Taishiro's chest with his arm around me as we watch a movie.\nThe plot interests me and I'm thoroughly entertained but the next thing I know, Taishiro's gently patting my back to wake me as the credits roll.\n"Exhausting day?" he asks, his voice soft and low as to not fully wake me if I'd prefer to sleep. He's always so considerate about even the simplest things.\nBut my day hadn't been especially exhausting. It was a bit stressful and nerve-wracking, but I felt energized, if anything, by the end of it. I'd been so proud of myself for getting back out there and doing something for myself.\nSo why am I falling asleep before we usually lay down in bed? Maybe it's been a more mentally draining day than I thought?\n"No..." I say, a bit more alert now, and he mirrors my puzzled expression.\nThen a thought comes to me.\nIt can't be possible can it? I should still have weeks...\nBut upon closing my eyes and checking my energy stores, I gasp loudly, startling Taishiro.\n"What's wrong?" he asks, mild panic tinging his voice when he takes in my expression of shock.\n"I- I'm low."\nHis brows scrunch together. "'You're low'?"\nHe blinks, then his eyes widen like mine have and he says it again with more surprise.\n"You're low?!"\n"Yeah, I- I don't know how or why. I should still have weeks left. What's happening? Is this bad?"\nThe expression Taishiro has on his face tells me he doesn't have an answer for me. He's just as worried as I am.\n"I'm calling Aizawa." I immediately grab my phone off the table and dial the number Taishiro gave me after our last appointment with him.\nI chew on the thumbnail Tomoyo smacked away from my mouth earlier, worrying it between my teeth as the phone rings on and on.\nAfter more rings than I thought a phone would allow before going to voicemail, he picks up, sounding irritated.\n"What."\nI'd be appalled at the way he answers but it's not really out of character for him and I have more important things to worry about right now.\n"Something's wrong," I tell him desperately, as though he might have the answers I'm hoping for.\n"Wrong how?" He gets straight to the point, not letting any confusion he might have stop him from helping. It's difficult sometimes (far more difficult than with Taishiro) but I'm starting to see the small ways in which he shows he cares.\n"Wrong like I'm already low on energy. I shouldn't have run out for almost another month."\nHis silence leads me to believe he's thinking, hopefully trying to figure out what could've caused this and what we should do now.\nHe sighs. "I'll come over tomorrow. Try to get some rest."\n"But what if I-"\nWhat if I go to sleep and never wake up? What if it's draining from me as we speak? I don't want to speak my fear out loud.\nHe answers as though he's heard what I was thinking. "You won't. You just started feeling it. It didn't just drain from you without some external cause. This isn't magic."\nHe says this as though it should be obvious and somehow manages to make me feel like an idiot for even worrying at all.\n"Are you sure?" I ask him, my voice still strained with desperation.\n"I'm 100% sure this isn't magic and I'm 99% this was caused by something external. So if you just sit there and watch TV, go to sleep, and wait for me to come over there, you will be fine. Also, this should go without saying but don't feed tonight. You might feel a little weak but you aren't in danger. You're more of a danger to anyone else you'd try to feed on right now so just wait. Understood?"\nHis assurance makes me feel a little better and I sigh with a small amount of relief, "Yes. I understand."\n"Good," he says and swiftly hangs up.\n"So he's coming tomorrow," I inform Taishiro, who's been waiting, his knee bouncing up and down nervously, "I just need to relax and get some rest and not feed until he gets here. He thinks something caused my body to use up energy. So if I just relax and don't force anything, I should be okay with what I have left until tomorrow."\nTaishiro nods in understanding, pulling me into a gigantic bear hug. "I won't let anything happen to you, honey. Do what he says and I'll take care of anything and everything, okay?"\n"Okay," I lean my head against his chest again as tiredness threatens to pull me under again, "Thank you, Taishiro."\nAnd with that, I let myself fall back into sleep, knowing I'm safe with him nearby.\n

Chapter 24:\nI wake up the next morning just like Aizawa predicted.\nI'm feeling a little more exhausted than usual but by no means do I feel as bad as I had the day I was dangerously low on energy. Whatever was draining me so quickly must've gone away.\n"You're awake..." that beautiful baritone voice blankets me as Taishiro's fingers brush my cheek.\nHe's sitting in a chair next to the bed, leaning over me now.\nBlinking to wake myself a little more, I notice how droopy his eyelids are.\n"Did you not sleep?"\n"I had to make sure that you'd wake up," he says with an exhausted smile.\nMy heartstrings pull as I look up into his shimmering gold eyes. He stayed up all night to watch over me and make sure I'd be okay...\n"Thank you," I pull him close and plant a soft kiss on his lips that makes him sigh deeply.\nHe crawls onto the bed to lie next to me, resting his head on my chest as I run my fingers through his wild hair. After only a few minutes, his breathing slows and deepens.\nI doubt he meant to fall asleep. He's probably still worried about me. But I'll let him get some rest. We've got a busy day ahead of us after all and I'm rested enough to make it until Aizawa gets here.\nSliding out from under his weight, I head to the bathroom to take a shower and brush my teeth.\nSeeing all of my stuff strewn around the bathroom as though it were my own reminds me once more that I haven't slept in my apartment in weeks; practically since Taishiro and I started seeing each other.\nShould I move in with him? I keep returning to that question. We haven't been together that long. Some people date for years before moving in together. It's not a matter of money, obviously, so I can take my time. But spending every day with him feels so natural. I want to be here with him. Yet a small part of me fears taking that step. I don't want to ruin this by pushing for too much too fast.\nI shove these thoughts aside for now. I have time to figure this out. I don't need to make these choices yet.\n--\nBy the time Taishiro shuffles out of the bedroom with a disgruntled look on his face, I've finished making breakfast, though it's rather late in the morning by now.\nHis eyes move from me, to the table, and back again, over and over. I think he might be trying to decide if he wants to scold me for letting him fall asleep or kiss me for making this huge meal- a rarity for me.\nThey finally settle on the table, unable to resist the temptation of the still-steaming fish laid out before him, and he sits.\n"Itadakimasu," he hastily mumbles before digging in and immediately groaning with pleasure at the flavors.\nA giddiness jolts through me seeing him enjoying something I've cooked with my own two hands. I never thought something so mundane would make me feel so good about myself but here I am, trying to keep a grin off my face as I watch him scarf down my food.\nHis eyes slide to me when I take a seat across from him with my own plate and he pauses his feast to give me another sour look.\n"You let me fall asleep."\nI had a feeling he wouldn't appreciate me letting him sleep but it didn't seem right to wake him.\n"You were tired. I feel good enough to make it through today so I just let you sleep," I let my hand lightly stroke his, "And you'll need energy for later today."\nA soft blush creeps onto his plump cheeks that stirs something mischievous in me. He's so adorable when he gets all flustered. But I've also seen the side of him that comes out when he's pushed far enough. I know what he's capable of.\nSpeaking of the devil, a light knock sounds at the door right as Taishiro's about to respond to me.\nWhen I open it, Aizawa stands before me looking a little less grumpy than usual, which is kinda surprising.\nHis hair is already up in its messy bun and the expression on his face is one of mild interest.\n"Good morning, Aizawa," I greet him, trying to fill in the awkward silence that sometimes prevails between us, "We were just eating breakfast. Do you want some?"\n"Yeah!" Taishiro yells from the table, "Have some! Ai-chan made it! It's great!"\nNow his brow creases with annoyance as he steps inside and removes his shoes.\n"I got here as soon as I could with such short notice. I was under the impression this was an emergency."\nI sigh. He can be exhausting in his own right sometimes.\n"It is an emergency. I need more energy today or I won't be anywhere near this cheery tomorrow. And who knows if I can even control my actions if I'm really starving now. That doesn't mean we can't take the time to eat before we get started, right?"\nAizawa shrugs. "Fine. What's for breakfast?"\nWe both take a seat at the table now and I'm finally able to dig into the rice and fish I've set out for myself.\nAfter Aizawa snacks on a few things here and there- occasionally sneaking pieces of fish to a begging Bento who picked his target well- he fixates on me with that mildly interested look once more.\n"So you're still low on energy?" He questions, making me set my chopsticks down and meet his gaze. I guess leisure time is over.\n"Yes. I'll be okay for maybe the rest of the day but I don't even know if I'd wake up tomorrow and if I did, I'd be in a situation like I was when Taishiro found me in his office. But I'm not being drained anymore, like you said."\nAizawa ruminates on this for a moment, his fingers going to his neck as he tilts his head back and forth as though he's sore.\nIn the meantime, Taishiro's finally finished his meal and is now focused on this conversation as well.\n"What could've caused this? Have you thought at all about it, 'zawa?"\nAizawa sighs, "Like I said, I think it was some kind of external thing. Something happened to your body to force it to expend energy. Much like when you exercise and are using up calories."\nMy eyes snap to Taishiro and his are already on me too, wide and mortified. I'm guessing he's had the same thought that I just did.\n"I see you now know what caused it," Aizawa says in his still very monotonous voice. He lifts an eyebrow at me, the only indication that he'd like for us to share what that revelation is.\nTaishiro's face turns a deep shade of red and he lifts a hand to make it seem like he's rubbing his forehead when, in reality, he's trying to hide his embarrassment.\n"Well- Well..." I stutter, unsure of where to begin and my wings begin to twitch with anxiety, "We... sort of tried your suggestion."\nAizawa narrows his eyes. He doesn't understand. He has given us quite a bit of advice about a number of things. I'm probably going to have to elaborate a bit. I don't know why this is so difficult when I've had actual real live sex in front of this man and intend to do it again, but something about out and out describing it is somehow humiliating.\n"Well, he didn't exactly tie me up but we-"\n"Okay, that's enough," he waves his hand to shush me.\n"But wait! I do need to tell you some things because they might be important. I won't be graphic."\nAizawa's lips thin into a line and he takes a small breath before waving me on, "Okay."\n"It was... rough. Like, really rough. I had a lot of marks on me the day after. And we kinda did it all night. I couldn't figure out how I kept getting the energy to keep going but every time he reached for me again, it would just be there. Now I know where it came from... And after, my bruises and scratches and stuff were all gone within a week. But that kinda seemed normal to me, I've always healed fast."\nI remember back to the bruise on my wrist being gone quickly as well and plenty of other injuries I'd sustained that disappeared.\n"And you never once thought of why that might be?" Aizawa asks with some incredulity. He's probably trying not to be annoyed. I know I must sound so dumb to him.\n"Not really. I suppose a small part of me thought it had something to do with my quirk but not that I was using energy stores. I don't heal instantly, after all. It's still slow compared to some of those heroes who heal almost as fast as they get hurt."\nAizawa considers this as well and nods. "There's a nurse at UA who is able to speed a body's ability to heal, forcing it to use its own energy, much like yours is doing. It is faster, though, and leaves the person more exhausted the more severe their injuries. I wonder what would happen if she touched you..."\nHe wanders off into some realm of fantasy trying to figure out how a situation like that might turn out. I have to clear my throat before he looks up at me again, blinking.\n"Right. So now you're in the state I needed you to be in for us to start training. Fortunately, I figured out how this will work a few days ago."\nI watch him with rapt attention, waiting for him to elaborate, my tail lulling back and forth.\nBut instead of going on, Aizawa stands suddenly and begins making his way down the hall to the bedroom. Taishiro and I exchange glances of bewilderment and apprehension before I push up from the table, following the placidly pacing man.\nHe stops to stand over the bed and watches us with impassivity as we approach.\n"Here's the plan," Aizawa says, his manner commanding our undivided attention. None too surprising for a teacher. "I'm going to tell you to put your mouth on him in some way. You'll continue as you normally would, then I'm going to tell you to stop and you are going to stop immediately."\nI nod. That sounds easy enough, although it may be a little awkward with Aizawa calling the shots.\n"It may seem simple," he says as though reading my mind, "but I've asked you to essentially starve yourself so you may find it more difficult than you think. You'll probably even find it frustrating at times and that's the point. We're trying to draw out your strongest hunger; the part of you that tells you to pull more energy. We're going to draw it out over and over and we're going to get you used to stopping it and stopping yourself from feeding. Our very first step is you being able to overcome your base instincts."\nI chew at my lip as I consider this. Is this possible? Does he really think I'll eventually be able to control my power?\n"The first step?" I ask, my brow creasing at that detail, "There will be more steps?"\nHe nods, folding his arms over his chest.\n"The end goal isn't just to be able to stop, is it? That's just going to be the baseline necessity. The end goal, in my opinion, is for you to kick the addiction so you can live without needing energy as well as being able to finely control your quirk in every possible way."\nI look at him quizzically, "How do you mean? Like I would be able to decide how much or how little energy I absorb?"\n"Correct. Or you could eventually absorb none at all. You said you could scent and taste and absorb fear and love as well as lust. We can toy with that some as well."\nHis gaze then shifts over my shoulder to my wings.\n"I also saw what you did last time, extending your claws immediately. My theory is that you should be able to control that too."\nMy eyes widen and I stare at him as the tiniest spark of excitement alights in me.\n"Do you really mean that?"\nI haven't flown since that night at the tower where I saved Taishiro. It came as easily as though I've known how to do it my entire life. Since then, I've sometimes found myself staring out the window, wondering if I'll ever know what it's like to spread my wings and touch the sky again.\n"I could... I could grow my wings at will?"\nIt's too much to bear to allow hope to grow in me just to be disappointed later.\n"In theory," he reminds me, "but that would come much later, after you've controlled your hunger. Like I said, that is the single most important step to being able to control everything else about this quirk. Not to mention the added bonus of no longer forcing me to have to be witness to your... training constantly."\nI quirk a brow at him and the glare he gives in return is a warning I can easily recognize.\nHis expression is clearly saying, "Don't even bring it up."\nBut I smirk at him smugly, "But you know I know you liked it."\nHis eyes narrow and he seems like he might actually say something out loud, then thinks better of it, breaking our eye contact and asking, "Sound good to you, Fat? You're gonna be the guinea pig she's going to be practicing on after all."\nTaishiro doesn't even hesitate before he nods. "I'm all for it!"\nHe takes my hand, grinning at me with all of those perfectly straight white teeth and a smile grows on my face in response.\nAizawa seems to be immune to Taishiro's charms though and maintains his bored expression as he motions to the bed.\n"Then let's begin."\nHe takes up his same seat as before while Taishiro and I crawl onto the bed.\n"Fat, I want you to try and be as neutral as possible. Try not to touch her. Don't pull her closer or push her away. Your job here is to react. To put it bluntly, just sit there and take it."\nTaishiro nods and Aizawa turns to me next.\n"Remember this is training. I want you to try and be as in tune with your body as you can. Try to feel just how much energy you're absorbing, how it changes, what it does to you."\nI nod my understanding as well, my wings rustling at my back.\nI'm feeling a little more jittery than I did last time and I can't quite tell why. I've already performed in front of Aizawa so those nerves shouldn't be as prevalent.\nAm I nervous about someone else telling me what to do?\n"You can get undressed down to your underwear," Aizawa instructs matter-of-factly.\nI do, pulling my dress off, hands trembling lightly, until I'm dressed only in my purple push-up bra and cheeky panties.\nTaishiro also pulls his clothing off down to his boxers. Ironically, he seems much more comfortable this time than before.\nHunger already wells up in me when I see his robust form lounging on the bed, awaiting Aizawa's next direction.\nMy eyes rake across those massive shoulders and his chest that looks (and is) so incredibly powerful. His soft, plump belly and subsequent thick, meaty hips have my mouth watering enough that I have to look away. Thankfully, I'm the only one here who can smell desire...\n"Okay, now you can kiss but nothing more than that. No touching each other except for on the face. We need to start slow in case you already lose control. We'll build up from there."\nI nod again, leaning in and brushing my lips across Taishiro's. Only lightly at first- testing the waters. I pull back to see his warm honey eyes glittering with excitement and adoration and I lean in again.\nThis time when our lips meet, I don't pull away, melting into the kiss as his lips part for me to dip my tongue in and get a small taste of the savory flavor waiting for me there.\n"Stop," Aizawa instructs in a monotone voice and I pull away with some disappointment. It was nice to finally taste Taishiro's beautiful flavor again.\nI sit and turn my head to face the man seated in the corner of the room as he watches me. He seems to be waiting for something.\nWhen a few more seconds tick by, he allows us to continue with a short, "Okay."\nI start right where I left off, my lips crashing against Taishiro's and my hand cups his cheek as our tongues meet again.\nAll Might, he tastes so good. My tongue delves into his mouth as though it's searching for some priceless treasure that's yet to be uncovered within the folds and crevices.\nHis cinnamon scent is slowly strengthening, as is his desirous flavor.\nAs Aizawa told me, I try to keep track of how his energy flows into me, the tiny stream that is pulled in and washes through each cell in my body, granting me more strength. But it's only slight at present, hardly any effect at all. I can feel its tempting song to pull more in, though it's fairly easy to ignore, especially when my heart feels so full just being able to feel him like this.\nI lean in closer and a soft groan vibrates up Taishiro's throat, sending my wings into a fluttering fit.\n"Stop," Aizawa says again, his voice as calm and calculated as ever.\nI have more difficulty wanting to obey this time but not because I'm losing control. I just want to feel more of my lover. Breaking contact with him is painful.\nAs I do, Taishiro seems like he also struggles to adhere to what he's been told to do, trying to keep the contact between our lips until I've moved completely out of his reach.\nWhen I send a disapproving look Aizawa's way, he doesn't seem bothered at all as he waits again, watching me for something before relenting.\n"Okay. Move on now, though. Kiss his neck or something."\nI listen and move my lips to Taishiro's neck, laying wet, sloppy kisses on it until I extend my tongue and draw it along the pulse I find there, lapping up the energy rolling off of him.\nA shiver runs through him and he chuffs out a breath, his breathing getting deeper, more affected by my attention.\nMy tongue is pressed firmly to his skin and I can tell just how excited it makes him when my teeth graze his skin as more energy pours into me and his scent grows even stronger.\n"You can touch him," Aizawa allows and I'm beyond pleased he's not telling me to stop instead.\nI waste no time bringing my hands to his chest, digging my fingers into the meat of him as I drag my tongue along his collar bone.\nTaishiro shifts beneath my touch and I realize he's fidgeting, keeping himself from reaching out to touch me. He clearly wants to.\nI pull back and take hold of his arm, pulling on it so he extends his hand toward me.\nFlicking my eyes over to Aizawa, he's still watching, seated in his chair. It doesn't seem like he's about to stop me yet.\nI bring Taishiro's giant hand to my face, dragging his palm along my cheek and down my chin until the tips of his fingers are brushing across my lips. Then I open my lips, pulling his thick forefinger into my mouth with a curl of my tongue.\nTaishiro gasps as my lips close around that one digit, sucking lightly, and his flavor saturates my tongue.\n"Aiko," he groans softly and just that one small calling of my name shoots electricity through my body.\n"Stop," comes the now incredibly annoying voice of the man watching us.\nIrritation has me flicking my tail and I drag my teeth down Taishiro's finger as I unwillingly let it go and glare at Aizawa.\nHe still watches me stoically.\nI wish he were smirking or something so I could have a good reason to hate him and accuse him of purposefully trying to piss me off for his own enjoyment. But he's not. He's still being professional. He's still trying to train me.\nA part of me still hates him anyway.\n"Good job so far. You have enough control to stop yourself at this point but I think we've mostly established that much," his grating tone informs us, "Now let's push a little further. Go back to kissing for now and I'll instruct you further."\nMy annoyance has faded away enough that I'm more amenable to his orders again. I lean into Taishiro and easily melt back into the decadence of his kiss.\nOur tongues intertwine and I'm all too eager to accept the steady stream of energy he's pouring into me.\nWe carry on this way for possibly another minute to the point I'm good and comfortable.\n"Now stroke him. Over his boxers. Don't get hasty."\nTaishiro's breaths pick up as my hand travels down his soft body, occasionally grazing him with my fingernails.\nA controlled grunt issues from him when I finally find his already stiffened cock, gliding my hand from the softness of his sack, up his shaft, to the growing wet spot in his boxers at his tip, then moving all the way back down to start again.\nA small twitch greets me, seemingly beckoning me to be even more adventurous, and as though springing forth from hibernation, my hunger takes hold of me.\n"Did you feel an increase in the flow of energy?" Aizawa asks, his voice slightly softer now.\nI ignore him. It's too tempting now. I want to feel that cock in my mouth, taste his cum on my tongue, and drink it down like it's a healing elixir.\nEasily bypassing the flimsy fabric of his boxers, my fingers brush the velvety tip of Taishiro's arousal and a whimper escapes him, his cock twitching again and his savory taste spiking.\nFuuuuuck. I want him. I need him. NOW.\n"Stop," Aizawa says with an authoritative tone.\nI can hardly hear him. I don't want to hear him. He's so fucking annoying anyway.\n"Stop," he snaps again, more aggressively this time.\nFuck off.\nThe flow of energy melts away and Taishiro's flavor becomes non-existent, as does his scent.\nMy temper cools rapidly and I'm able to think more clearly now as I push back from Taishiro who breathes out a sigh.\nThe way my hunger just rose up in me was so sudden, I was completely taken off guard and consumed. Aizawa was right, this training will be much harder than I anticipated.\n"Sorry," I tell him as he releases me from his quirk.\n"It's fine. You're doing well. I'll give you a minute and then you can start again," he tells me without any anger.\nMy eyes meet Taishiro's and he looks flustered but not unhappy. His lids are heavy with lust and he's obviously still aroused with the way his boxers are tightened around his groin.\nHe looks so delicious like that. I'm already chomping at the bit to kiss him again.\n"Okay," Aizawa relents with a wave of his hand, "Go back to kissing and touching. Go slower this time."\nI nod once and move toward my lover once more. He's already breathing more heavily as I move closer.\n"Are you having a good time?" I ask in a low tone, closing more of our distance.\n"Y-yeah," he replies shakily, his attention fully on my lips as they come closer to his.\nHis scent increases as I inch forward. Even though this is training and dangerous, he's still enjoying it. He's still greedy for my kisses and desperate to feel my hands on him.\nA lesser man would be afraid and would be right to call me a monster. He's just staring at me, though, through those half-lidded eyes, waiting to be swept up in our passion again.\nI close the last of the distance between us and, so very slowly, let my hand stroke his shaft.\nHe twitches again when my fingers massage the tip and my hunger threatens to flood me once more but I'm ready for it this time and fight tooth and nail to push it down just so I can stay connected to him for a little bit longer.\n"Now beneath the boxers," Aizawa's voice comes, definitely less harsh than before. Maybe he's glad to already be seeing improvement.\nI'm all too willing to dip my hand below the waistband of Taishiro's boxers and wrap my hand around that gorgeous cock. From the way he growls into my mouth, sending a wave of flavor over my tongue, he's eager as well.\n"Stop."\nI pull back with a huff, letting him glide from between my fingers and watch Aizawa as he watches me.\n"Why would you tell me I could touch him if you were just gonna stop me right after?"\nAizawa doesn't seem phased by my snippy tone as he leans back in the chair. "I knew it would have some kind of effect on him and on you. I needed to see if you could still control yourself despite that. This is all about baby steps. This is what's going to keep happening until I know for certain you can stop yourself any time you need to, even in the most emotional moments."\nWhat he's saying makes sense. I hate it but he's right and I know this is meant to help me. If I ever want to have a truly intimate moment with Taishiro again, I have to keep pushing through this frustration.\n"Continue."\nI reach for Taishiro again, going right back and reaching beneath his boxers to stroke his length before I even put my mouth on him. I love seeing the way his lips part as he looses an affected breath. It makes me feel encouraged that I don't want to immediately taste him and want to enjoy this moment between us too before bringing my lips to his.\nHe bucks his hips, thrusting into my hand, as I press my body against his and he leans back a little, putting weight onto his elbows, hands fisting the sheets in an attempt to keep from touching me.\nI'm surprised I haven't been told to stop yet but I won't look a gift horse in the mouth. I lean with him, pressing myself against the side of his body. I'm straddling one of his thick legs as I continue to stroke him beneath his boxers, using the precum leaking from his tip to lubricate him.\nTaishiro is practically writhing beneath me, his hips rhythmically bucking into my hand as he pants so hard I have to break our kiss to let my tongue glide along his jawline.\nI feel his muscles starting to tense and I know he's close.\nMy wings flap excitedly as I take my chance to close my mouth around a meaty part of his neck.\nThen, of course, comes the "Stop."\nThis time, though, the growl of annoyance comes from Taishiro.\nWhen I glance over at Aizawa he is actually smirking now. It doesn't seem malicious, though. Just amused.\n"Sorry, Fat. She's pretty clearly got a handle on this so we have to move on. We have limited resources, afterall."\nThe limited resources being Taishiro's energy. Despite the fact that he has far more than most, I drained him quickly before. If I lost control- and that's what Aizawa seems to want to push me to the brink of- I would drain him within minutes.\n"You can fellate him now, if you go very slowly."\nFellate? Did he just use the word fellate? How unsexy can you get?\nI make my opinion rather clear as I side-eye Aizawa's face that has already returned to it's stoic expression. Once again, he is unphased by my attitude.\n"Do you not want to?" He arches a brow at me.\nMy wings flair at the jab and I turn away from him, facing my partner again. He's practically ignoring Aizawa and seems to only have eyes for me.\nOf course I want to. Was I not chomping at the bit to feel his cum on my tongue just a few minutes ago?\nMy mouth waters just thinking of it again and I'm not at all hesitant to reach for him, delving beneath his boxers another time.\nTaishiro's sigh of pleasure and subsequent flexing of his muscles tell me he's still very much excited to continue.\nThus, I push him back onto the pillows, making sure he's partially propped up so he can still see as I lower my head toward the glistening pink tip awaiting my tongue.\nHis eyes are dark with desire, watching as my head moves lower and lower and my tongue extends. Then, he hisses in a breath when they finally meet and the explosion of flavor on my tongue is almost more than I can bear. The sweetness of his precum mixed with the savoriness of his desire is like the epitome of all drugs.\nI swirl my tongue around his tip, making sure I drink up every tiny drop of precum.\nTaishiro's head is already leaned back, overwhelmed by my attentions.\n"Stop." Aizawa's voice floats into my awareness.\nI hear it. I know he wants me to stop. But Taishiro clearly doesn't want me to. I don't want to, he's so fucking delicious like this. How could anyone resist this immaculate feast? If he's not saying no, isn't that all that matters?\n"Aiko."\nMmmm. Not just yet. Just a little more...\nThe savory flavor evaporates on my tongue and I know Aizawa's quirk is activated. But the sweetness is still there and Taishiro's chest is heaving and that's enough to make me want to finish the job.\n"Aiko!"\nI just sink Taishiro's length deeper into my mouth and he cries out in pleasure that makes waves of heat crash through my body, pooling in my abdomen.\nA hand roughly grips the back of my neck and yanks me away from him, leaving me gasping and disoriented.\n"I told you to stop. You're gonna learn to listen," a deeply annoyed voice growls.\nI look up at Aizawa with wide fawn-like eyes, surprised. He... touched me. Not only that, he grabbed me. I never expected him to do that. I always expected him to just sit there and command me from the sidelines, afraid to get involved. But he's standing above me now, his hand still gripping the back of my neck and something new within me awakens as his glowing eyes soften back to their dark hue, releasing me from his quirk.\n"Y-yes. Sorry, sensei," I stammer as my tail arcs from side to side.\nA wildness comes to his eyes that he immediately shields from me and he lets go of my neck, hastily returning to his seat.\nMy senses return to me and it takes all my effort not to look back at him again. Taishiro's scent is only just overwhelming the fresh scent of pine filling the air.\n"Try again," the deep, gravelly voice instructs from the foot of the bed, sending goosebumps up and down my body.\nWhat the hell did he just unleash in me?\nWhen my eyes meet Taishiro's again- as he's looked up from the pillows finally- he can see something's changed as well. His eyes slide from me, to the man behind me for a moment, then understanding dawns as he comes back to me, a small smile playing at his lips and he waves me closer.\nHe leans into me, bringing his lips to my ear as he breathes hot air across the curve of it.\n"How does it feel to be ordered around like the dirty girl you are? You like that?"\nHis words hit me like a truck, crashing into me and sending electricity shooting through my veins as my wings flap excitedly.\nI do like it. I like being controlled. I like being his little puppet. I realize that's why I was so jittery to start off with and it's part of why I damn near fell to pieces when he just pulled me away for disobeying.\n"What'll you do if he tells you to beg, like a sweet little dog on all fours, to be fucked?"\nA shuddering breath escapes me as I imagine that dark voice ordering such a thing and I know in a heartbeat, I'd do it. Fuck me, I'm such a nasty slut.\nThe smile that comes to Taishiro's lips melts me from the inside out. He likes to see me like this. He likes to see me falling apart, barely able to speak through my desire. I'm fairly certain he'd do anything to see this desperate look on my face. I wish I could see into that beautiful head of his at this very moment.\n"Are you waiting for a written invitation? I said, 'Try again.'" Aizawa's sharp command snaps me back to the present.\nI practically jump into action, ducking my head to close my lips around Taishiro's cock.\nA gasp of surprise is pulled from him and he falls back against the pillows, resuming his previous position.\nI drag my tongue along the underside of his shaft, swirling my tongue at his tip before taking him deep into my mouth, to the back of my throat.\n"Ai-chan," Taishiro growls, his hand running through my hair and I'm reminded of our first night together. The way he wrapped my hair around his fist, pushing and pulling me as he fucked my mouth mercilessly.\nThe way he's toying with my hair now, I think he might be considering it again.\nHis flavor is magnificent as I languidly bob my head up and down his length. The first night I ever tasted him, I was instantly smitten with just how delicious he was. It's only gotten even more delectable since then. No one has ever tasted this amazing for me and I doubt anyone ever would again. A flavor that was only just lust before has matured and grown into something far more beautiful. It's almost as though I can feel the affection he feels for me wrapped within his desire. His flavor reads like the story of our passion and is nearly dizzying with its intensity.\n"Stop," Aizawa calls, his voice once again softer than before.\nAs much as I love this taste and my heart aches to see the look of disappointment on his face, I pull away from Taishiro.\n"Good," Aizawa praises me, sending a spike of dopamine straight through my system, "Keep going."\nI greedily pounce on Taishiro again, all too pleased to hear his gasp upon my tongue dragging along his shaft.\n"Good..." I think I hear Aizawa's voice say again. But I must've misheard it considering I haven't done anything worth his praise this time.\nThe pine scent seems to be growing stronger, though. He's enjoying this scene of me bowing before my lover, sucking on that giant cock of his. And, just like before, something about knowing someone is watching us and enjoying the show, makes every nerve in my body sing with excitement.\nI can't fit all of Taishiro in my mouth, even down my throat, like I did before. He doesn't seem to mind though as he pants along with the rhythm of my movement.\nMy tail swishes back and forth when he starts to make small whining sounds and is unable to stop a hand from gripping my hair to push himself into my mouth as he nears his orgasm.\nAizawa isn't stopping us despite the fact that it's clear what's about to happen. The way Taishiro's holding me, I don't think he'd care even if he tried to stop us, though.\n"Oh god, Aiko," Taishiro grunts, thrusting into my mouth again, his tip dragging along the back of my throat, "I'm gonna cum- I'm gonna cum for you."\nI can only moan in response as the waves of his emotions build higher and higher within his flavor until he lets out a guttural groan of ecstasy and grips my head, spilling his cum into my mouth.\nStill, Aizawa doesn't stop us, even as I hungrily swallow what's in my mouth just to lap up every little bit left over on Taishiro, making sure I drink every drop. Even as I take him into my mouth again, rolling my tongue around his sensitive head, willing him to stay hard and let me continue tasting him.\n"Aiko..." Taishiro puffs out at my eagerness, "W-wait. I'm not ready."\n"Stop," the command finally comes.\nAnd I try. I really really try. I hear him. I hear Taishiro. But that was just too much to bear. I need more of him and I can't stop myself from pushing further. Hunger, deep and powerful and monstrous, overtakes everything and I ignore anything that's being said to me.\nBut before I can be swept away or even try to grip Taishiro too hard, the hunger falls away, along with the scents and the flavor and I'm able to pull back, breathing heavily as I do.\nI glance at Aizawa, his eyes aglow once more, and I don't know if I've ever felt more thankful to anyone in my whole life as I do at this very moment. I could feel myself careening into madness and he stopped me. He pulled me back from the brink before I was able to do anything I would regret.\nThis is why he's here. And this is what he believes I can control.\nRecognition shines in his eyes as they fade from gold to dark brown again, "You lost control."\nI nod, hanging my head with shame.\n"Ai-chan," Taishiro's reassuring voice, no worse for the wear, blankets me in warmth. His giant fingers brush along my jaw, trying to soothe me.\n"You tried to push it back down, though. You didn't just give up. It's progress. It's good to recognize when you're losing control, at least."\nI'm comforted slightly at his compliment. Aizawa doesn't seem like the type to encourage someone just for the sake of making them feel better. He's honest and blunt to a fault.\n"Are you calmed down now? You're ready to keep going?" he asks, that odd softness creeping back into his voice.\nI nod, my determination renewed as I lean into the hand at my cheek.\n"You're okay to keep going, Fat? Are you feeling tired yet?"\nTaishiro shakes his head. "No, I'm fine. I've still got a lot left in me."\nHe grins a sultry smile at me at that last comment and eases my anxiety in the process.\n"Then we'll move on for now. We'll come back to that later. Let's try actual intercourse now."\nI have to stifle a giggle with how clinical he is about his word usage. Does he feel more removed about what's happening in front of him if he's not saying "sex" or "blowjob"?\n"I'm going to be especially strict here, just to warn you. This is a safety precaution just to make sure you're not pulling too much too fast," he cautions us.\nI nod at him and he motions me forward.\n"Fat, you lean back again. Aiko will be on top."\nTaishiro does as he's told and his eyes rake down my body as I push my panties down my legs and crawl toward him like a predator cornering her prey.\nHe's already hard and waiting for me again when I straddle his massive form. It makes me so hot seeing the ravenous look in his eyes, his energy not seeming to have waned at all.\n"You can begin but go slow and don't put your mouth on him yet. I'll instruct you what to do."\nI don't need further encouragement to place that glistening pink mushroom tip at my waiting entrance.\nI slide him back and forth along my slit, getting a small twitch with a soft hiss in response.\nHeat roars to life between my thighs, begging to be filled with the beautiful cock between them and my tail goes to his calf, stroking lightly.\nIt's agonizing to go so slowly as I lower myself onto him, shaking with the effort.\nHis sigh of gratification when he's finally sheathed as far as he can go within me is damn near intoxicating in and of itself.\n"Good," Aizawa's voice is slightly more pinched, like he's not getting enough air, "Keep going for now. Don't put your mouth on him yet."\nI obey, beginning to move my hips leisurely against Taishiro's.\nIt hardly matters what pace we're going, though. I'm already letting out a soft whine when I feel him grinding against my most sensitive spot. I love whatever speed we go because he always knows exactly where to hit to make my whole body sing.\nThe pine scent spikes, almost overtaking Taishiro's for a second when the sound leaves my throat.\nI have to pause for a second just to keep from looking back over my shoulder at Aizawa. Fuck, I just wish he'd admit to enjoying watching us. I don't mind. In fact, it makes me even hotter knowing that I'm turning one man on at the same time I'm fucking another.\n"I didn't tell you to stop," his deepened voice growls, making the air catch in my throat, "Keep going."\nMy heart thunders with excitement as I resume my pace, rocking against Taishiro, my hands on his plush belly to steady myself.\n"Aiko," Taishiro says breathily, "You're so tight. It's-"\nHe can't finish when my muscles contract around him and he groans, gripping the sheets again to keep his hands off of me.\n"Now you get to be my fucktoy," I whisper playfully to him and I see every muscle in his arms flex as his deep golden eyes widen.\nMy speed increases slightly as a reward for such a delicious reaction.\n"Good," that dark, command voice growls again, "Now you can put your mouth on him again. No kissing him this time. For now just put his finger in your mouth like you did before."\nI'm a little disappointed I can't kiss him yet but am pleased I get something at least.\nTaishiro lifts his left hand to me in offering and I take it in both of mine.\nHe watches his own hand as though in a trance as I allow it to run across my breasts before sliding it up my chest, then neck, and let his thumb rest at my swollen lips.\nI watch his reaction as I extend my tongue, getting a small sampling of the energy radiating off of him. Then I drag him into my mouth, closing my lips around him, earning me a small grunt.\nMy movements continue as I suck lightly on his finger and delight in such a decadent meal.\n"Stop," barks Aizawa and it takes some effort but I do, pulling the finger from my mouth but not dismounting.\nFor the first time since we've begun this part of the training, I look over my shoulder at him.\nAizawa looks extremely uncomfortable. He's constantly fidgeting in his chair, pulling at the legs of his pants.\nBarely concealed at his groin is an unmistakable bulge and my tail twitches upon seeing it.\nHe doesn't miss that little movement and he glares at me, red tinging his cheeks.\nI can practically hear him saying, "I'm not into it."\nIt's my turn to arch my brow at him as if to say, "Are you sure about that?"\nHis eyes narrow.\nSending him a challenging smirk, I turn back to my lover gazing up at me through half-lidded eyes and begin to move again without the go ahead.\nI pull Taishiro's hands away from the sheets he's begun clutching again and place them at my hips, letting him grip me the way he's wanted to all this time. And the way he immediately digs his fingers into my soft flesh has my tail writhing.\n"I didn't say you could start again," a dark voice growls from the corner but I don't pause my movement.\nMy mouth isn't on him, what should it matter?\nI ignore him despite Taishiro's unsure expression. But he knows that he's the training dummy today, so to speak. He won't stop me even if Aizawa tells me to. He's not the one moving after all. Everything here is my doing.\n"Aiko," I'm warned again.\nMy wings stretch wide, groping at the air as I move faster eliciting a groan from Taishiro, who grips me more firmly and pushes me just a little bit harder when I slam down on him over and over.\nThe pine scent floods my senses as Taishiro's grunts become more desperate.\nAizawa likes seeing this, his own little personal pornography played out before him. I know it probably embarasses him but it drives me absolutely crazy that he's watching and enjoying and I don't want him to hide it. I want to see his eyes darken with desire and watch him stroke himself to the show we put on for him. I want him to order me to do depraved things with a vicious smirk on his face. I know he could, if he'd just-\n"This isn't a game, Aiko," he snaps, pulling me from my fantasy with the nearness of his voice.\nHe's beside us again and I jolt, finally pausing my movement and looking up into his face that seems more displeased than I've ever seen him.\nHe takes my face in one hand, his fingers squishing my cheeks and his face draws nearer.\n"Do you want to be tied down for this training until you can figure out how to listen?"\nMy eyes widen as heat pulses through my body. Um, how am I supposed to answer that? He wants me to say no to that, right?\n"N-no, sensei," I squeak out, earning me another wave of pine filling my nose.\n"Then you stop when I say stop and you don't start again until I tell you. Do you understand?"\n"I- I just-"\n"Hmm?" he questions me with darkly simmering eyes. Eyes that say they're entranced by the way my lips are slightly parted.\nI just want you to admit that you like it.\nMy tongue comes out to wet my lips instinctively and he snatches his hand away as though he's been shocked.\nDaggers shoot from his eyes as he pulls away from us and walks back toward his seat.\n"Fat, you're on top this time," he grumbles, flopping back into his chair.\n"Me? But what about- How will she be in control? How will she stop herself?"\n"She hasn't fully figured that out yet so you're going to help her. You'll listen when I tell you to stop and if she doesn't let you go, I'll stop her," he pulls at his pant legs again, still clearly uncomfortable.\n"O-okay," Taishiro agrees, pulling me off of him with a small sigh to get up on his knees while he lays me gently back.\nHis slickened hardness pulses once as he positions himself between my thighs and I glance down at that dark pink tip, drenched in my juices.\nThere's a small amount of hesitation in his eyes and I can easily understand what it is with the way that he's eyeing my body.\nWe haven't really had sex with him on top of me at this size yet. He is far bigger than I am in every way and he probably fears hurting me.\nI have no such concerns though, pulling him closer.\n"You won't hurt me," I assure him, "I can keep up with you, remember? And you're soft. It'll be fine."\nHe seems more confident settling his weight above me and I hook my legs around his hips to make my assurance clear.\n"You can start whenever," Aizawa gives the go ahead and from my position now, I have to tilt my head up in order to see him upside down.\nWith a nod, Taishiro plunges himself back into me and begins his rhythm moving against me.\nHe's holding most of his own weight up on his knees and elbows, though much of his belly still presses me into the mattress. But I'm also just barely sinking into him, making me feel rather comfortable, like I'm surrounded by pillows.\nHe lowers his face to mine and kisses me. Gently at first, then deeper until his flavor permeates my mouth.\nJust as I'm getting into it, "Stop."\nTaishiro pulls back though doesn't extract his body from mine.\nWe both look up at Aizawa who seems to have settled a little after our brief altercation.\n"Good. Keep going."\nWe continue.\nThis continues on another two times, him stopping us and us obeying, despite my frustration growing. I can feel my need to orgasm getting stronger and every time he stops us, it grates on me.\nAfter he lets us continue for the third time, he lets us carry on for longer and I'm so into it that I forget I could be told to stop any minute.\nI'm relishing the feel of just being completely captivated by my lover. His scent fills my nose as his mouth claims my own. His body covers mine and his ragged breaths curl in my ear as he pumps in and out of me.\nEverything about Taishiro consumes me and I can't think of anything else but how much I adore the man on top of me.\n"Flip her," Aizawa's voice finally comes. But it's not telling us to stop. He's giving further instruction.\nHe sounds almost breathless, as though he's just had to sprint a short way.\n"What?" Taishiro asks. And I'm unsure if he didn't hear or was just so focused on me, he'd also forgotten Aizawa until he'd spoken again.\n"Flip her over," Aizawa reasserts his orders, "On all fours. From behind."\nEven though he sounds like he's struggling to catch his breath, his voice still holds command in it. He's ordering us what to do.\n"But how is she supposed-"\n"You saying you don't want her ass up for you? Just do it."\nI don't need further prompting. His commands have some kind of sway over me. Thus, I'm pushing myself up, forcing Taishiro to back away from me, and I roll over, my wings stretching out after being trapped under my weight.\nI lift my ass into the air, presenting myself for him to take, and the soft growl I get in response tells me he's all too willing.\nTaishiro pushes into me and we continue on, his hands on my hips, pulling me into him as he pushes.\nThe clapping sounds of our flesh meeting fills the room and my soft cries soon join as I melt back into this small piece of heaven with my lover.\nHe doesn't let up on his thrusts when he leans over me, his lips coming to my ear.\n"You're so beautiful, Ai-chan," Taishiro whispers to me, bringing a giant hand up to cup my chin and spread out over my neck, "I love hearing those little sounds you make."\nDespite the passionate moment we're sharing, I can't help but smile and feel my wings vibrate excitedly at my back. His words always fill me with so much joy. And that tantalizing chuckle of his rumbles from his chest.\nIt's been a while since I've heard Aizawa's voice, I realize. His pine scent is still thick in the air but he hasn't intervened. Is he not going to stop us? My pleasure is mounting and Taishiro's thrusts have become more forceful.\nI glance up at our audience and find him leaning his head on one hand, watching us intently. His other hand is at his groin and, though he is still fully clothed, it's not hard to see that he's stroking himself through his pants.\nHe seems less afraid to be caught when our eyes meet, instead gauging my reaction as I look between his face and his stroking hand.\n"Mmm, you wanna taste him don't you?" Taishiro's deep, affected voice startles me, "Aren't you wondering what he tastes like?"\nA gasp escapes my lips as I do my best to turn back and see the look on his face. Is he upset with me?\nBut no. When I take in his expression it's smug, pleased, excited.\n"Taishiro I-"\n"Shhh," he growls and slams deep into me again, pulling a cry from me which in turn sends a new wave of pine rippling toward me. All of these sensations are beginning to be too much! "Look at him. Look how much he likes seeing you squirm."\nI do as I'm told and my eyes go back to Aizawa, barely even hiding the fact that his hand is massaging that very obvious bulge restrained within his pants.\n"Maybe he'll let you put your mouth on him if you learn to control your quirk. Would you like that, honey?"\nI can only answer with a breathy whine that pulls another deep growl from Taishiro whose thrusts are picking up speed. He's getting closer to the edge, same as I am. And still Aizawa isn't stopping us. I don't know if he plans to with the way his gaze is locked on us.\nSomething in his eyes seems to smolder, though it's not his quirk. I can still smell his refreshing scent in the air. But he's finally letting down that unaffected air he's worked so hard to maintain this entire time and he leans forward.\nIt's hard to focus on his actions with the way Taishiro is slamming into me and panting in my ear. I'm giving a soft cry every time I feel him hit the deepest part of me.\nI do see him moving closer, though, and he's watching me, occasionally glancing up at Taishiro. I can't be sure what Taishiro's expression is but it can't be one of disapproval with the way Aizawa continues his slow, cat-like movements closer.\nI can feel myself drawing nearer to the edge of ecstasy as I lazily watch his steady approach.\nHis pine scent strengthens as Taishiro's thrusts become even more forceful and a wail of pleasure escapes my throat.\nHe's not concealing his arousal that's nearly tenting his groin area but he does pass over it once with his hand when he notices that's where my attention lies.\nHe's standing directly next to the bed now and my muscles clench when he reaches a shaky hand toward me.\nTaishiro groans at my added tightness and cups my breast, toying with my nipple.\nHe's close. I can feel his body beginning to seize up. Just a little bit more and I'll be there too.\nRough, slender fingers brush my cheek and I'm suddenly more aware than ever of the figure standing in front of me, his unconcealed length within reach if I were to be so bold. But Taishiro said Aizawa only might let me, if I could control my quirk first. He'd never let me as I am now.\nSo why is he touching me this way?\nFire blazes through my veins when his thumb traces along my lower lip, dipping only barely inside, not close enough for my tongue to touch.\nOh god, with the way his scent is filling my nose, I might lose it if he does let me taste him, even if it's just for a second.\nHe draws his thumb along my lip one more time and I open my mouth slightly wider, inviting him in, coaxing him, not wanting to force him.\n"Ai-chan," Taishiro pants heavily, his voice deep with lust, "I'm gonna cum."\nIt's at this exact moment that Aizawa's thumb finally enters my mouth and he strokes my tongue with that one digit.\nA new, beautiful, smokey flavor explodes on my tongue and, just as I thought, my mind reels as I plummet over the edge of ecstasy, my orgasm crashing into me.\nTaishiro grunts ferociously when he clutches me, his body spasming, and warm cum runs down my leg as he fills me to overflowing.\nI feel that same biting hunger rear its ugly head within me, especially with a new flavor caressing my tongue. It's overtaking me and I can't stop myself from rolling my tongue along the roughly padded finger pressing into my mouth.\nA shuddering sigh escapes the man in front of me as he presses down just a little bit harder\nI want to take more of him in my mouth, know his taste when he's writhing with pleasure. I need more of this flavor. It's delicious and just as refreshing as his scent. Would I choose it over Taishiro's? No. That's not even a question. Taishiro's flavor is like a drug I can't get enough of. Aizawa's... is just very enjoyable.\nIt's with that knowledge that I'm able to come back to myself somewhat and realize that if I pull on him any further, he'll close up again. If I don't keep control of myself, even in the midst of my orgasm, he probably won't give me another chance to taste him, whether it be by my scaring him or reminding him I'm more incompetent than one of his students.\nSo when he begins to pull away, my instinct is to clamp down on him and I hesitate for only a second before letting him slide from my mouth.\n"Good," he says roughly, his dark eyes still boring into mine and letting his thumb trace my lower lip one more time before pulling away entirely.\n"Good job, Ai-chan," Taishiro whispers with exhaustion, "You're already starting to get the hang of it."\nCollapsing on the bed, I let my body finally relax as Taishiro sits back.\n"That's enough for today," Aizawas voice reaches me, back in his original position at the chair, "You can get dressed again."\nHe picks our clothing up off the floor and tosses it onto the bed for us.\n"So here's what I'll tell you with the progress that I've seen today," he says gravely, accentuating that this is something important as we begin pulling our clothes on, "You seem to be able to control yourself exceptionally well when you're only kissing. So I would say you're safe to kiss as long as it doesn't go further than that. You've already proven that you can have sex without worry as well. But under no circumstances are you to kiss or put your mouth on him while having sex or in any sexual capacity."\nWhen I've finished pulling my dress over my head, I look in his direction but his gaze is turned away. Back to being modest I suppose.\nMy energy stores are back to normal and I feel so much more comfortable now that I know I've gotten an answer to what happened to me and our first training session is complete. I'm already starting to feel more confident, like this really is something I can do.\n"You did good work today, Aiko. We don't have to wait for you to get so depleted next time. I can probably come back in a couple weeks," his eyes finally return to my face and take in my excitement. His praise is so pleasing to me.\n"Okay. That sounds good! We'll be ready," I assure him, glancing back at Taishiro who also gives a small nod.\nJust as before, Aizawa exits pretty hastily with barely so much as a "goodbye" and we're left alone to absorb all that's happened.\n"How are you feeling?" Taishiro asks when we've gotten comfortable on the couch to watch some tv together.\n"I should be asking you that, don't you think?" I say with some concern. There were a couple moments there I thought I might've pulled too hard on him.\n"I'm fine. Like Aizawa said, you did great today, Ai-chan. You're gonna get this so fast. Faster than I would've thought. You were the one who was so low on energy this morning. I know you were scared last night," he toys with a few strands of my hair and squeezes me gently when I lean into him.\n"I do feel better now, about a lot of things," I admit.\n"You believe us when we say you can control your quirk now?" he smiles warmly down at me, setting my heart aglow.\n"Yeah, I guess," I smile back.\nThen the thought occurs to me that now is the right time to bring up what happened between us and Aizawa in the bedroom. I'm still confused about it and I need to know what's really going on here.\n"I also kinda want to ask, before it gets any further, are you really so open about Aizawa... joining us? Were you just saying those things to rile me up?"\nTaishiro's smile fades slightly and I realize a little late that I've opened the door to a conversation that may end up being pivotal for us. I'm not sure I'm prepared for this conversation right now.\n"I guess now is a good time to talk about this," he says, rubbing at the back of his neck and glancing nervously at the floor, "How do you feel about another person in the bedroom with us?"\nI freeze, not so much surprised at where this conversation was headed but at how blunt he is about it. He's not beating around the bush or playing with words. This seems to be important to him.\n"I... I'll be honest, I've never had more than one partner at a time. I'm not sure how I feel about it," I say, giving him the same openness he's afforded me.\n"That's okay," he smiles reassuringly, "If you don't want to have another person, that's okay with me. I'm mostly interested because I like to see you pleased. That's what gives me pleasure. And it just seemed like... you liked tasting him."\nColdness grips me. I don't know what to say. I did like it but not more than I like Taishiro. Would he be hurt if I told him that? Would he be angry?\n"Hey," he speaks softly, soothing me with a caressing hand at my cheek, "Don't be afraid. You're not hurting my feelings. I suggested this, remember?"\nSighing, I try to let some of my apprehension go before I answer.\n"I... did like it."\n"I know he's... him and has his reservations as well but if he didn't, would you want to taste him again? More?" Taishiro's eyes are filled with interest, not a hint of anger or hurt.\nThoughts I had in the heat of the moment return to me. How I wanted to taste him at the height of his passion, how I enjoyed his desirous eyes on me, how excited I was to feel his thumb trace my lips.\n"Y-yes," I agree shakily.\n"Okay," he says as if that settles things.\nOkay? Okay to what? What does that mean? He's just gonna let Aizawa join us that easily?\n"Do you just never get jealous?" I ask pointedly, "Are you really so okay with other people touching me?"\n"No! Of course not, Ai-chan!" Taishiro shakes his head, his eyes filled with worry now, "It's not like I never get jealous. I'm crazy about you and, if I'm being honest, I've felt jealous plenty of times when someone else gave you attention, even when I had no right to be."\nHe pulls me close to him, his honey eyes melting me with his tenderness.\n"Even before we were... us, I struggled sometimes not to show how much I wished you'd pick me over anyone else. But I didn't think I deserved it," he tenderly rests his forehead against mine, "I would never want any random person to touch you in an intimate way. I'm only comfortable with people I know I can trust and would only ever want it if you wanted it too."\n"And... you know you can trust Aizawa? You're not worried he'd try to steal me away from you or that I'd... fall for him or something?" I worry my lip between my teeth, showing just how unsure I am about all of this.\nOf course I couldn't leave Taishiro for anyone. I can't imagine having eyes for anyone but him anymore. Could anyone else even compare?\nHe doesn't know that, though. Even if I told him a thousand times over, I don't think he'd ever see just how deeply I've fallen for him.\n"I don't know everything for sure," he chuckles adorably, "but I do trust you. You've never given me a reason not to."\n"And you trust Aizawa too?"\n"Aizawa is..." Taishiro pulls back and scrunches his face up, leaning his head from side to side as he considers his answer, "It's hard to explain. I know he doesn't mean any harm. He's not like a lot of people. He doesn't have relationships like we do."\nI frown deeply, my confusion getting the better of me, "What does that mean? How does he not have relationships like us?"\nTaishiro scratches at the top of his head, messing his light blonde hair up even more.\n"Aizawa doesn't feel like that about people. About anyone. Ever. Sure, he likes people sometimes and he can feel friendship toward them. But, for him, it can never be anything but platonic, even in a sexual relationship. So he can be sexually attracted to you or to other people but he'll never try to win you over or try to deepen his relationship with you."\n"So he just... never wants to be in a relationship?"\n"I can't say that for sure. He might want some level of companionship eventually or he might not. But he's not ever going to fall for you."\nSomething in me feels sad about that. He doesn't fall in love or want a romantic relationship?\nBut then I think about his students and his friends like Taishiro and that little girl he'd been with at the festival. He's not unhappy. He seems content. Who am I to be sad for him? It's unfair to apply my measure of fulfilment to someone else.\n"I see..." I say slowly.\n"So you're interested? You want him to join us?" Taishiro's eyes alight with excitement.\nSuddenly I feel shy about my decision and look away from that beaming face, "O-only if he wants to."\n"So that's settled then," Taishiro's face become more serious then, "Now I want to talk a little about what our boundaries are."\n"Our boundaries?" I ask, confused.\n"Yeah, like how far is too far. For example: No doing something alone with someone else. Both of us have to be there."\n"That should be obvious," I give him a look like he's being ridiculous, "It's our sex life we're inviting someone into."\nHe shrugs, "That's not a boundary for some people. We agree that it is for us, though."\nI nod assuredly.\n"Here's what's important to me," he speaks kindly, gazing into my eyes with intensity, "I don't mind someone touching you, kissing you, you putting your mouth on them or them putting their mouth on you- as long as you don't end up hurting them. But I- This is gonna sound so stupid," he shakes his head, cheeks reddening, "I don't want anyone else inside you but me and vice versa."\nTaishiro lightly slides his hand up my thigh, making it clear exactly how he means he doesn't want someone else "inside me." But he just as quickly removes it, bringing it back to my hair.\nI know he thinks it sounds ridiculous but it brings me a huge amount of relief to hear him admit that there is a boundary he doesn't want crossed and that he does want to keep some parts of me only for himself. Now that he's expressed his feelings, it makes it easier for me to understand my own. I can't deny that I enjoyed someone else watching or even that I enjoyed his taste or his hands on me. But I also didn't want Taishiro to just be willing to hand me off to someone else or be wanting to sleep with someone else himself. It's hard for me to express how I want him to want me but with the simplest of explanations, he's put it perfectly into words.\n"That's exactly what I want too," I respond, leaning in to lay my head on his chest, "I could go without having anyone else if I just had you but I have to admit, other people would be fun to join in every once in a while."\nTaishiro's arms tighten around me and I don't even have to look to know a grin is spreading on his face.\n

Chapter 25:\nI joined Taishiro in having dinner with his mother again long before her monthly required dinner for her sons. Haruto doesn't come this time so it's only the three of us. She fusses over me and makes me feel like I'm already a part of her family. So much so that by the time we're getting ready to leave, I'm tempted to stay just to be cared for by someone so nurturing for a little bit longer.\n"I wish my mom were as great as yours," I sigh, resting my chin in my palm as we wait for the train home.\nTaishiro doesn't immediately respond but I can tell his eyes are on me. He heard me but he's thinking before he says anything.\n"You don't really talk about her much. What's she like?"\nI have to consider for a moment just how much I want to tell him; how much I should let myself get caught up in those memories.\n"Our relationship is complicated, if we even have a relationship anymore."\nTaishiro nods, listening intently, but is silent so I can continue.\n"You know she was a single parent because I'm the result of a one night stand. But she never seemed to resent that. She wanted me and cared about me. Maybe, in a way, she saw my father in me or something. Who knows?"\nRecalling how she was is starting to pull me into a place of sadness and loneliness I thought I'd forgotten until now.\n"I was scouted by Tomoyo when I was fifteen. I was just modeling some trendy clothes at first and my mom was skeptical but didn't tell me not to do it. When I got an offer from a big name designer for a lingerie shoot that was a lot of money, I wanted to take it but my mom said I shouldn't be showing my body like that at my age."\nThe concerned look that comes to Taishiro's face says he's inclined to agree. But he doesn't understand that big breaks don't often just fall in your lap as a model or an actor or any industry that depends as much on luck as it does talent. If I had ignored the offer, another one could very likely have never come my way.\n"I needed her approval in order to be allowed to do it but she was staunchly against it. I was desperate and panicking, thinking I'd miss my big break. So Tomoyo said I should consider emancipating myself from her if she was going to keep me from my work. Back then, I thought I was invincible and everything would go my way if I pushed hard enough so I..." I have to pause to brace myself for all of the emotions this brings up. I hadn't expected it to affect me so much after all this time, "I didn't end up doing that. But I fought with her one night and brought it up as something I was considering. She freaked out and finally just said she'd let me do the shoot."\nI sigh, looking up at Taishiro, wondering if he's judging me for how terrible of a daughter I was to my mother. Looking back on that night, I do regret my words. The look on her face was nothing short of heartbroken and I felt nothing but satisfaction at it. I was awful. But nothing I said to her warranted what she did to me.\n"I went that day to do the shoot and when I got back home, all of my stuff was gone. A key and address was left on the table, which were to a small apartment halfway across town. She'd moved it all there while I'd been gone. Didn't even leave a note. I got the message well enough, though, and we haven't spoken since."\nThe corners of my mouth seem to perpetually droop downward as I tell this story. It hurts to realize I still miss her. I shouldn't. I should be happy to have someone who would do that to their own child out of my life. But she's my mom and it's so much easier to say than do.\nTaishiro is silent for a long moment after I finish. What's going through his mind that's making him so pensive?\n"It's been a long time since then," he says gently.\n"Almost ten years," I bow my head, trying to keep my emotions under control.\nHis fingers slowly push hair back away from my face as he speaks, "Maybe things will have changed by now. You're successful and happy. You've made a name for yourself. She may regret what she did. If she's anything like you, she's probably afraid to admit that to you."\nMy wings flasher indignantly at his response, "Are you saying I should try to reconnect with her? She kicked me out! I was her daughter and she kicked me out!"\n"Adults make mistakes too. You have to know that by now," he tilts my head up to make me meet his eyes, "I would support you if you told me you never wanted to see her again but I see the way you look at my mom and sometimes the way you look at Tomoyo. You look at them like you're seeing someone else. The way you talk about her makes it clear it still eats away at you sometimes."\nMy eyes shift away from his. He sees through me, even when I haven't even realized things for myself.\n"Try just once," he offers, "If she doesn't want to meet with you, you have your answer and you can let go. If she does, I'll go with you and we can see if she has anything else to say."\nNever in a thousand years did I think I could be convinced to face the person who hurt me the most out of everyone. But listening to Taishiro actually has me considering it.\nHe's right that I'm still more torn up about it than even I wanted to admit. And it is true that if I actually heard it straight from her that she never wanted to hear from me again, it would be some kind of closure, even if it would hurt immensely. He would be there. He wouldn't force me to face her on my own. He would hold me and comfort me if I cried. Then he would remind me of all the family I still do have.\n"I don't know," I answer him, pulling back a little, "I need to think about it."\nHe takes the hint that this discussion is over and that I need some space. My mind is still churning, though. Now that he's planted that seed and I've recognized my need for closure and understanding, I don't think it'll be so easy to ignore.\n--\n"She said she'll meet with you. Is next Friday at 11am a good time for you?" A chirpy feminine voice asks over the phone.\nI've been waiting for a response to my request to meet with Sakuya for a while. I'd been starting to think I was never going to get one. Of course I'd never be so fortunate.\nA fresh wave of dread settles in my stomach as I consider being pushed into helping with this investigation again. To think I was once so fired up to help, thinking I could save those kidnapped girls. After everything I've been through, it's easy to tell just how delusional that was.\n"Yes, that's fine, thank you," I reply with as much of a syrupy voice as I can muster as I dig out my planner to begin jotting down the new appointment.\n"Okay. I have you down for 11am next Friday! See you then!"\nThe secretary hangs up before I can respond.\nI shoot a quick text off to Taishiro, who's out patrolling with his interns, and Whitney about this new development as they're the ones who'll be accompanying me.\nSetting down my phone again, I try to recenter my attention on the scrapbook in front of me. Taishiro's mom has been encouraging me to try it and even offered me some cardstock and more stickers to get started. It's hard for me to only focus on these pictures of Bento, though.\nI have no clue how involved Sakuya may or may not be with the trafficking Jared was involved with. The police seem to have cleared her of any wrong-doing or at least couldn't connect her to any crime. But there has to be some reason she's locking herself away.\nMaybe Whitney was right. Maybe she's scared of something. But if she is, why is she willing to talk to me of all people? Jared was her friend. Whether she knew what he was up to or not, I highly doubt she thinks favorably of me.\nIt's still festering in my mind (and quite a bit more in my stomach) when I hear boisterous laughter downstairs in the reception area of the agency.\nIt doesn't sound like Taishiro's deeper booming laugh but it still seems familiar. Possibly Red or Steel? Maybe they came back for something?\nSetting the scrapbooking aside for now, I venture out of the tiny office Taishiro's set up for me (he said he didn't want me to feel like I was always just a visitor) and make my way down the stairs to see what the commotion is about.\nI can hear a little bit better as I get closer and can recognize Maki's cheerful voice as well as Tamaki's more subdued one joined with a third, who doesn't seem to be Red or Steel after all.\n"You don't have to. That's... way too generous," Tamaki says awkwardly.\n"Don't be silly. You're my best friend! I already told Fat Gum and he said it's fine!" the other voice comes.\nI finally reach the reception area to find three sets of eyes greeting me, one of which is wide and a bright, vibrant blue.\n"Oh! Aiko-chan! It's great to see you again! Sorry if we disturbed you!" the blonde boy bounds over to me, bowing deeply.\n"Togata-kun, hi," I blink in surprise as I take in the room.\nDark green garlands are strung all over, crossing this way and that along the ceiling and walls. Velvety red ribbons run loosely around each of them and some bells, hollies, and candy canes hang from them. Even a mistletoe is hung just in front of the building's exit.\nMulticolored lights border the edge of Maki's desk and each of the doorways, making the whole room look festive and lively.\nFor some reason, I'd forgotten that it's already late into November. I should've realized when I had to run back to my apartment to gather more wintery clothes and start storing my summery ones. But, as it was with my birthday, there hasn't been anyone to really celebrate Christmas with either family-wise or boyfriend-wise these past years. Now I suppose it's something I should be considering.\n"I thought you could all use some Christmas cheer! What do you think?" Togata's eyes shine with expectation and infectious energy.\n"It looks awesome," I tell him honestly, "Anyone who comes in here is gonna love it and I like how welcoming it makes the entrance seem. Thank you."\n"Do you want to help us with the tree? I wanted to put it in the middle of the downstairs lobby so everyone can see it and be able to walk around all sides."\nMemories of hanging ornaments on a small tree with my mom begin leaking into my mind and I give my head a small shake to clear it before answering.\n"Yeah, I don't really have anything better to do," I shrug, trying not to give away just how excited this makes me.\n"Great!" the blonde boy grins, shoving his way through the exit, just to reenter a moment later with a tree that reminds me oddly of Taishiro.\nIt's quite tall- maybe even taller than Taishiro- but it's still rather robust, with long-reaching branches and full, voluminous fronds.\nIts bold pine scent hits my nose and I'm immediately reminded of the heady aroma Aizawa gave off. I'm lost for a second in the memory of watching him approach me, reaching out to trace my lips with his thumb, his eyes smoldering with untold desire.\n"Okay, you lay out the tree skirt and I'll get it set into place. Tamaki's bringing in the decorations for it now."\nI have to blink a couple times to come back to myself, slightly embarrassed by how easily I was swept away into that fantasy. It's amazing to me just how similar both scents are.\nFuck... am I gonna be reminded of him every time I walk in here and smell this Christmas tree? Or will it be vice versa? Will smelling him remind me of stringing lights up in the tree and putting presents under it?\nA thought comes to mind of Aizawa sprawled out under a Christmas tree, bathed in the blinking multicolor lights. My tail curls instinctively. It's actually not an unappealing image...\nThen another thought comes to mind of Taishiro dressed up as Santa Claus, sitting me on his lap and asking if I've been a good girl, then offering me this tasty gift waiting for me under the tree. Oh god, would he role play Santa for me?\nI have to bite my lip firmly to keep any kind of inappropriate sound from escaping my mouth as I unfold the tree skirt and lay it out on the floor.\nWhat is wrong with my brain?! I should not be having these kinds of indecent thoughts right now! I'm supposed to be sharing a wholesome moment with my sweet Fat Gum Agency family!\nInstead, I'm thinking of unwrapping a dark and broody man like a present under the tree! This is all his fault for smelling like that!\n"You okay, Aiko-chan? Your cheeks are a little red. I hope you're not coming down with something," Togata reaches out to me attempting to check my forehead for fever but I pull away.\n"No! No, I'm fine. I just... was drinking some tea earlier and it warmed me up a bit is all," I assure him with an awkward smile.\nHe doesn't seem to question me, though, and nods his acceptance.\nThen I see those bright blue eyes go dark as they settle over my shoulder, back toward the entrance where Tamaki is coming back through the door, arms full of boxes presumably filled with ornaments and followed closely by none other than Whitney who's talking animatedly with him as she holds the door open.\nTamaki doesn't seem displeased to see her. In fact, he's looking a little flushed himself.\nGlancing back toward Togata, I can see a muscle ticking in his jaw and I'm frozen for a second, fearful of this situation turning into one like the ceremony.\n"Whitney," I call out to her, making a beeline for her as she steps inside, "I wasn't expecting you. Is everything okay?"\nHer vibrant green eyes easily catch Togata's and her face instantly becomes more guarded, lips thinning.\nOh please please let's not have a battle royale in the entryway of the agency!\nBut she pulls her eyes from him and brings them back to me, letting the tension slide from her body.\n"Oh! No, there's nothing wrong. Sorry to worry you," she bows lightly, "I got your text and I wanted to come talk to you instead of having to keep texting you. I hope that's okay."\n"Yeah! That's fine. It's no problem at all. Let's go up to the office."\nMy heart sinks a little bit. I'd really been wanting to decorate the tree with everyone else. But I know it's for the best to separate her from Togata and let him have his chance to decorate with Tamaki in peace. If I have to miss out on that in order to keep the peace, I will.\n"So I got a meeting secured with Sakuya," I tell her, coming around to sit at my desk when we've made it into my office.\nWhitney gazes around curiously, a tiny smile playing at her lips, but she makes no comment on my new work space.\n"It's next Friday at 11. Does that time work for you?" I open my planner, revealing the appointment to her.\nShe considers for a second, hesitantly answering, "You really don't mind if I come? I know I'm the one who sent you there but I can always just wire you and-"\nI shake my head, "No, you're going to be the cover story for the whole reason I'm there. I want it to seem like I'm trying to get a job for my prot g ."\n"Prot g ?" Her electric green eyes dance as I smile at her. Such a simple word pleases her so much, "Then I'm happy to come! 11 is perfect for me!"\n"Great," my smile grows wider, "then let's discuss how we want this to work... and then what you're going to wear."\nAfter about a half hour of us discussing our plans, we re-emerge from my office, making our way back downstairs.\nI scan the lobby, hoping I can get Whitney out the door with little to no carnage but I don't see anyone down here. The tree is set up now but it's still barren like they left it and just ran off. Maybe there was an emergency they had to go handle?\n"They're gone," Whitney says with a look of disappointment.\n"Yeah, that's kinda weird," I share my own confusion, "I guess it's for the best anyway. I know you don't really like Lemillion much."\nHer face tightens as I bring up that name, "I'm not worried about him."\nI'm about to point out just how obvious her lie is when the jingle bells that have been temporarily attached to the door sound and in walks Taishiro, back from his patrol with Red Riot and Real Steel. On their heels is a hyped up Togata, chattering with one of the boys and Tamaki pulling up the rear, looking only mildly engaged.\nWhitney's stillness is so obvious. She really thinks I'd believe she isn't worried about Togata when she's staring at him like she's imagining drowning him?\n"Ai-chan," Taishiro's eyes catch on me easily, breaking from his conversation, "the boys brought some food!"\n"Yeah!" Togata pipes up, making sure he's looking directly at the fuming girl next to me when he says, "We finally went on that lunch date we've been talking about."\n"Mirio..." Tamaki reddens, glancing between the two with concern.\nFor fuck's sake, I wish I could confront this increasing tension that's happening between these three. Just make both blondes confess to Tamaki and then demand he give them each an answer. But I know that forcing that would only cause hurt for everyone, including myself, because Tamaki would never trust me again.\nWhitney tenses then blows out a heated breath, ducking her head to mostly hide her face with her hair, "I'll see you later, Aiko-chan."\nThen she pushes past the group of men gathered in the entryway and sends the bells jingling again as she leaves.\nThe silence is pervasive after she ducks out and all I hear for a few seconds is the very faint sounds the decorative lights give off as they blink off and on.\nThat was harsh and pretty hurtful of Togata. It surprises me that he hit so low. I think it surprised everyone. But none of us will say it because, just looking at him the moment she pushed past him, I could see regret in his eyes. He already feels bad about hurting her.\nBoth of them are decent people. Both deserve to be happy. This is the sort of situation where someone gets hurt even if no one does anything wrong.\n"You ah... You didn't finish decorating," I finally break the silence, nodding toward the tree to try and distract from the awkwardness.\nThe others blink a few times, seeming to come back to themselves and Togata recovers first, "Oh. Yeah. Well you seemed like you wanted to help so we decided to go get lunch while we waited for you to be done."\nMy heart warms at the consideration they showed me. I do wish that Whitney hadn't departed on such negative terms but our plans are at least already made. I should give her space for now and we can have a deeper discussion about all of this later.\n"Thanks, Togata-kun," I say, then look around at the others still standing in the room, "Then let's get started."\n--\nIt doesn't take all too long to get everything up on the tree. Many of the ornaments are store-bought glass globes, candy-canes, stars and there are a good handful that are representative of the heroes at the agency. A matte red one with an RR for Red Riot, a shiny silver one with RS for Real Steal, an impressively-painted globe with tentacles and wings and claws for Suneater, then a yellow one with the design that copies the one on his jacket for Fat Gum.\nThere's little happiness I could even compare to how I feel as I laugh with the people around me who genuinely seem to enjoy spending time with me as well.\nWhen we're all finished, we look up at the glowing tree and an idea sparks.\n"Let's have a party!" I suggest.\nWith the way the teenage boys' eyes light up, you would think I suggested we give them a million yen each.\nTamaki fidgets uncomfortably, looking unsure of the idea while Togata slaps him on the back in encouragement. Taishiro seems to be considering it. Maki is nodding enthusiastically.\n"Yes!" Steel bellows with vigor, "A Christmas party! We can invite all the other heroes! And our classes and-"\n"I don't know about all that," Taishiro stops him kindly, "I don't think a Christmas party is a bad idea but maybe it can be smaller than inviting everyone. Maybe just some close friends."\nThe boys look a little disappointed but don't argue. If they were so inclined, they could probably just say their classmates are all their closest friends and Taishiro would fall for it hook, line and sinker. But something tells me that even putting their minds together, they may not think of that ploy. Oh but I do love my pure-hearted little airheads.\n"Let's do it then!" Togata is practically bouncing with excitement, "A Christmas party on Christmas Eve!"\n"Yeah!" The two boys cry out, while Tamaki slumps in defeat and Taishiro sighs, meeting my eyes with a small shake of his head as if to say "What are we gonna do with these kids?"\nMy chest aches painfully for a moment as we swap commiserative glances. It hurts as though wanting for something but I couldn't possibly imagine what. I have everything I want right here.\n--\nThe week passes faster than I thought and probably in no small part due to my growing anxiety over meeting with Sakuya.\nI was given the go ahead to meet with her and to utilize my plan to ask for more jobs for Whitney to see if we can do some investigating or finagle some answers out of her.\nKnowing Taishiro is coming with me helps calm me somewhat as we arrive at the enormous building that houses Sakuya's studio and step through the revolving door.\nWhitney herself seems like she might be sick with her own anxiety, picking at the seam of her dress as we take the elevator up to the 20th floor. It makes me wonder just how new she is to doing something like this. Maybe she just doesn't like confrontation?\nSeeing her so nervous makes it easier for me to ignore the fear that still grips me sometimes when I'm in an elevator, especially when I'm taking one to a high floor.\n"Don't worry," I say, putting a comforting arm around the fidgeting girl, "It'll be fine. We got this. Right, Fat-kun?"\nTaishiro meets our eyes in turn and gives the thumbs up, "Of course!"\nWhitney nods, still a little shaky, but she seems more confident now as the elevator chimes, announcing our arrival.\nThe doors open directly into a lobby area where a petite green-haired girl sits behind a desk and looks up from her computer screen.\n"Ah, Fujisaki-san, welcome," she greets me and me alone and I recognize her as the voice of the girl I spoke to over the phone, "And these are... your friends?"\nShe smiles in a way that tells me that she doesn't think much of my company but is trying to be hospitable. Some receptionists really think they're in a position to be snooty when all they do is man the desk for the person who's actually the big deal.\n"Yes," I bow respectfully and they follow my lead, "This is Fat Gum. He's my... Well, he's my boyfriend but has also taken on the job of guarding me. He's a hero. And this is Whitney, a girl I've taken under my wing as a new recruit. I've come to talk to Sakuya-sama on her behalf."\nThe expression on the small girl's face when I mention Taishiro being my boyfriend is reminiscent of a porcelain doll's face cracking. It's something I've come to expect but not something I ever ignore.\n"Something wrong?"\nAnd just like that, "No! Nope! Fine! Sakuya-sama is waiting for you in her office just down the hall behind me."\nI wave for my companions to follow me but the girl holds out a hand, "Just you, though. They can wait out here."\n"But I'm here for her," I say, referring to the increasingly anxious girl behind me, "I need my kohai at least so she can meet with her."\nThe receptionist chews on her lip a moment, trying to determine what to do as her eyes bounce from one of us to the next.\nThen she picks up the phone, dialing a series of numbers too short to be an actual phone number. An internal call.\n"Sakuya-sama, Fujisaki-san is here."\nShe's silent while the other end speaks.\n"But she wants to bring other people in... Her hero boyfriend and her kohai...."\nThere's a longer silence as Sakuya speaks.\n"That's what I told her. She insists that at least her kohai come in with her. She said she's here for her sake."\nShe nods as she listens to the phone then looks up at me again, "She said it's fine but," her eyes go to Whitney "You have to stand by the door and can only speak when you're spoken to."\nSighing, I shoot the girl an exasperated look, "Fine. I just want her to meet her anyway."\nShe tells the phone that we've agreed and hangs up, waving us through once more.\nI glance back at Taishiro only once. He looks on edge and I immediately wonder if I've made the right choice here.\nShould I insist he come too? I don't think I can. She'll probably turn me away then. There's no good excuse for him to be there without it being obvious I'm up to something.\nI do still have Whitney though. I keep forgetting that she is a very capable hero in her own right, even if that's not the job she wants to have. She's saved me before. I'm sure the only reason Taishiro is letting me go in there without him is because she is with me.\nWe make our way all the way to the end of the hall and I rap lightly on the door.\nWhitney nudges me and tilts her head up slightly toward the top of the doorway. Looking up, I notice that something like a shutter is camouflaged very well there.\nBefore I can meet her eyes again, the door opens and a large man steps out.\nI instinctually take a step back but Whitney stands her ground, staring the man down.\n"We do a search of anyone who comes into the office," the huge man says. He almost rivals Taishiro in size, "It'll be quick and then I'll leave you to it."\nHe seems like he's trying to be as kind as possible while still being firm. It's disarming enough for me to agree to his request, relieved I'd chosen not to wear a wire after all.\nWe both hold our arms out in a 'T' pose while he delicately pats down our bodies, checking any pockets and, lastly, our socks and shoes very quickly.\n"You're fine to go in," he confirms, stepping out of the way and closing the door behind us after we've walked through the doorway.\nThe walls in this room are adorned with magazine covers and fashion show stills featuring sporty-looking women all dressed in some of Sakuya's most popular designs.\nThe woman herself sits behind a massive white desk. She's got to be in her 30s with her dark auburn hair in a short bob and sharp, angular features.\nShe seems stressed. There are dark circles under her eyes and the fact that I can see them at all means she didn't even bother to put makeup on. But she seems plenty authoritative when she holds out a hand to offer me a seat. Whitney stays standing by the door as she was instructed.\nBefore I can greet her, Sakuya stands and bows low, her chin tucked in.\n"I'm so sorry for what Jared did to you!" She says with genuine pain, "You have to believe me, I didn't know he was going to do that. I didn't think he'd try to kill a hero. I didn't know he'd become so... so unstable. He was my friend. I would've tried to stop him if I'd known. I'm so so sorry."\nI exchange glances with Whitney. It seems we've already nearly gotten all the answers we'd come here for and we hadn't even started asking questions.\nThis is a supremely bizarre turn of events. I was expecting to, at the very least, have to try and convince her to open up to me. Now I'm at a loss for words.\n"I..." I hesitate, gripped with emotion I was unprepared for, "Thank you. But you're not responsible. You didn't know what he was planning."\n"I knew he was designing a penthouse that was way out of his price range," she seats herself again, "But I didn't question it. I even helped him pick out furniture. I'm so-"\n"He's your friend," I reiterate, trying to keep in mind no one knows for sure what's become of him, "You would never assume the worst of a friend."\n"He's not anymore," she says darkly, a chipping manicured fist shaking on her desk.\nWhitney and I meet eyes again as the woman behind the desk stares soullessly at her hands.\n"You don't... know where he is then?" I ask as delicately as possible.\nShe looks up at me then, her eyes seeming even more sunken than before, "Oh right... You're here with that hero. The one who tried to save you. So... you're probably not really here for her at all then, are you?"\nShe tilts her head toward Whitney who remains quiet, still only observing.\nMy muscles tense slightly and I try to keep the truth from my eyes but I doubt I've succeeded. She had probably guessed it from the start anyway. We had never interacted before. And now, after I'd been kidnapped by someone who was so publicly her friend, I wanted to speak with her?\n"It's alright," Sakuya says with a wave, "I figured as much and I don't blame you. You want them to find him as soon as possible. But, you're right, I don't know where he is. He never contacted me when he escaped. I've actually increased security here in case he ever shows himself. I'm sorry I can't help you more."\nSo that's what the patdown and the shutter door was all about. That's why she's been so quiet and limiting visitors. I feel touched that she still agreed to see me, even with her suspicions and shame.\nI feel a certain amount of kinship to her. She had also been friends with Jared, although quite a bit closer, and she's also been betrayed in a way. It must hurt a great deal to find out you'd unknowingly assisted someone in doing something terrible.\nNodding with acceptance, I look down at my fingernails, pushing back the cuticle of my thumbnail with the tip of the other.\n"Well thank you anyway... for seeing me," I say with a little disappointment. The fact that she knew nothing about Jared's plans also means she probably knows nothing about the trafficking ring, "I'm sorry for the way things turned out."\nSakuya's shoulders begin to tremble and she turns the back of her chair to us. I think she might be crying and my heart aches for her.\nShe stands after almost a minute of silence and begins to turn toward us again but Whitney suddenly grabs my shoulder roughly and I wince. What the hell-\nI hear a deafening pop that leaves a ringing in my ears and Whitney lets go of my shoulder just as quickly as she'd grabbed it, falling to the floor in a heap, platinum hair strewn about her like a mussed veil.\nA scream, both in surprise and horror, bursts from my throat as I go to run for my kohai but Sakuya's voice, so much harder than before cuts through my panic, "Stop. There."\nLooking up at her, I instantly freeze as she points a gun in my direction. This is what issued the loud pop just now. Wasn't this woman just apologizing to me? How has everything suddenly just turned on its head?\n"Why?" is all I can think to ask, "Why her?"\nI can already hear raised voices in the lobby and the shortest scuffle I've ever heard, then the pounding of gigantic feet as Taishiro races toward us. As I could already figure, Sakuya slams that thick steel shutter door with the push of a button and Taishiro's body slams into it only feet away from where I'm standing now, his fists battering it pointlessly.\nPanic begins edging into my mind but I do my best to push it back as I stare down the woman in front of me. Whitney... She shot her. She shot my kohai. I want to go to her, check on her but I can't. I'm frozen to the spot with the barrel of a gun pointed directly at me. She's not moving, though. She's making no sounds at all.\n"This is your fault," Sakuya says coldly, her light blue eyes now turned to ice, "You insisted she come in with you. It could've been just you. I only wanted you. But I couldn't pass up the chance to make you feel exactly how I do."\nA buzzing in my head is getting louder and louder as my mind is trying to wrap itself around what's going on.\n"I don't..."\n"Jared is dead," she says emotionlessly, as if trying to remove herself from that fact, "Someone killed him."\n"I didn't. I couldn't-"\n"You let it happen! You let him get caught! And before that, you were the reason he got caught up in all this stuff anyway!"\nBy "all this stuff" does she mean the trafficking? So she did know what he was doing?\n"He loved you! He gave everything for you! He gave up a piece of his soul for you!" she cries, tears spilling from her eyes, "And you just... abandoned him! You ran off with that gluttonous oaf and let him- you let them-"\nShe can't bring herself to finish her sentences but I understand well enough. All of those people in the trafficking ring... One of them killed him, probably to keep him quiet. He wasn't supposed to take me and he was about to tell me everything after he failed to keep me contained.\n"You're one of their most prized possessions they have and you don't even know it." He'd said.\n"He knew just how much of a slut you were," she goes on, "and he just didn't care. He thought you were soulmates. Why couldn't you just accept him? How could you not see everything he did for you?"\nShe sounds just like he did. He couldn't understand why I didn't love him as much as he did me.\n"He didn't love me," I say cautiously, "He hardly even knew me. We were friendly acquaintances at best. He never told me how he felt about me. He was just obsessed with me and deluded himself into thinking there was something more."\n"No! No, that's not true!" She snaps at me, the gun shaking in her hand, "He was doing everything for you! You were all ready to go with him to America when you met that idiot."\n"Sakuya," I try to keep the trembling from my voice, "I never told him I would go to America. He asked me a few times and I still wasn't sure."\nThe gun lowers enough that I feel she's less likely to shoot me now, though my fear still roots me to the spot. I need to get to Whitney...\n"No..." she says weakly, "That's not- That can't be true."\nShe seems more subdued now and it has me confused. If I can keep her talking a little bit more, she might completely relax.\n"H-How do you know he's... gone?"\nSakuya's eyes become distant again, like the memory pains her.\n"I found him... I agreed to meet with him and help him find a new place to hide after he escaped. But when I got there he was already..."\nHer lower lip trembles as she seems to fight back more tears.\n"And you don't know who... did that to him?"\nShe lets out a breath of frustration, "One of them. One of those awful people. I told him not to get involved but he had to have you. He had to save you."\nBitterness coats her voice though she lowers the gun a little further.\n"'One of them'? You're not helping him traffick girl-"\n"I would never get within a mile of that business. I couldn't stand that he was doing it. I told him I'd only look the other way if he stayed away from my girls. He did so I kept my part of the bargain. I should've just turned him in. It would've saved his life in the end."\nSo she's an outsider... As unhinged as she is over this, she's not involved in the trafficking. But she knew it was happening and did nothing. I don't know if that's much better.\n"And you don't know who any of 'them' are?" I ask delicately, hoping she's not noticing the way I've slowly begun inching toward the girl still sprawled on the floor.\n"Why? You wanna exact some vengeance for him? Don't act like you care now."\n"I want to stop them-"\n"You can't stop them," she hisses, gripping her gun a little tighter and I wince, "No. I don't know any of them. Jared didn't really either. He knew only a few of them personally, but he could tell there were more a lot more. And he knew they were dangerous and he still did it. He never told me about any of them for my own protection. But he never told them I knew he was involved either. Now I'm sure they're aware. That's the real reason why."\nShe motions toward the steel door that Taishiro is still making a racket as he beats on it.\nI finally understand now. Sakuya is afraid that what happened to Jared will happen to her. The ring has been able to survive due to secrecy and it's likely that almost no one in it knows exactly everyone else. That is except for the ringleader. A ring this large can't just be sustaining itself. Someone is definitely at the top of it. Once we stop that person, we can stop this whole thing. But this person is clearly not someone to mess with.\nI can still hear Jared's shaky voice over the phone; How terrified he was. "Them. All of them. I don't know who they all are but there are so many different people behind it."\n"Sakuya, please, let us help you. There are heroes who are investigating this. They can help keep you safe. Just don't do this," I plead with her.\n"What? Like how he kept you safe?" she nods toward the pounding at the door, "Like this one did?"\nNow her unfeeling eyes go to the girl on the floor. She knew she was a hero?\n"It was obvious she was the second she grabbed for you instead of ducking when she saw the gun. Such a hero thing. You really think I'll be safe when I just killed a hero? You think I'll be safe when I'm about to kill you? No. I'm not. I'll never be safe. But at least I can give Jared this much before I join him."\nDread hollows out my stomach as she lifts the gun again, looking far more determined this time.\nSomething comes into my vision, though. A ring. I've seen it before. It's soaring, as if thrown, toward Sakuya.\nBefore I'm sure what's even going on, the ring bursts into a tiny black cloud and Sakuya can't even get out the full "Wha" before she's collapsing, knocking her chair over on her way down.\n"She really thought she killed me. That's insulting," Whitney snips, sitting up and holding a hand to a wound at her shoulder as it leaks blood.\n"Oh my god!" I cry out, racing toward her to join her on the floor, "I thought she killed you too! You weren't moving!"\nWhitney looks bemused, "I told you and Fat Gum-senpai I wasn't going to let you down."\n**\n"This could be really dangerous," Taishiro had said as we rode in the back of an SUV to the studio, "If she was in any way involved, this could be a trap."\nI'd understood and accepted this knowledge.\n"We prepare for the worst and hope for the best," Whitney said with a severe expression on her face.\nBoth Taishiro and I nodded in agreement.\n"Whether she's got bad intentions or not, she probably won't let you back with us," I'd said to Taishiro, "It's part of why I want Whitney there. I can likely convince them to let her in. But if they don't, we'll just leave immediately."\n"So I'm just there to be your eye candy?" He asked with a tiny smirk.\nI failed to hold back my responding snort, "Always."\n"You're there to keep anyone else out if things go sideways and she starts calling for security or something. I hope that's okay with you, Fat Gum-senpai," Whitney explained, gripping her skirt tightly.\nTaishiro faced Whitney, his expression more serious as he addressed her, "I can accept that. I'm trusting you to keep her safe, Bombshell."\nWhitney's face was grave as she nodded, fingering a little black ring on her pinky, "Thank you. I won't let either of you down."\n**\nAfter pressing the button to reopen the steel door, I immediately dash into Taishiro's arms as he steps inside.\nHe pulls me close and shares a nod of solidarity with Whitney. He'd been right to trust her.\n"You're okay?" he asks me, holding my face in his hands.\n"I'm fine," I reply with a weak smile. My adrenaline is finally starting to wear off and my energy is crashing, "Whitney is probably gonna need a doctor, though."\n"Police and medics are already on their way," he assures us as he moves away from me to check on Sakuya, "You two did good."\n"Yeah... What was that ring you exploded, anyway?" I ask the blonde girl, still holding onto her shoulder.\n"A powdered sedative compressed into a ring. I've got all kinds of tricks up my sleeve."\n"Impressive," Taishiro remarks while pulling Sakuya's limp arms behind her back to handcuff.\n"Thanks," she says with a brightness in her eyes that says she takes his praise as a huge compliment, "It seems like you succeeded at your job as well."\nI follow her eyes out the door to see the large man which originally patted us down laying on the floor completely out cold.\nHe had seemed kind. I wonder if he'd been in on this at all?\nSakuya doesn't wake as police and a medic team arrives. Even as she's carried down to the ground floor and placed in a vehicle, she remains unconscious.\nFrom what I hear from Taishiro, she awoke hours later and said nothing. She remained silent through questioning and never spoke to anyone anywhere near as much as she had to me.\nAfter returning home, Taishiro and I sit together on the couch and check out a new anime he's been interested in while Bento purrs softly in my lap.\nIt occurs to me only now that I could've died today. I was in real danger and had no clue if anyone could've helped me. A gun was in my face and I really was scared.\nBut I'm not haunted by that. I knew what I could be walking into the moment I agreed to it.\nWhat stays with me, though, is Sakuya's eyes; her face in despair and grief. I can't help but recall the way Taishiro's face looked when he thought he was losing me as I was whisked away.\nThis ring has destroyed countless lives, even for people who wanted nothing to do with it. It'll only continue to do so.\nWe're back at square one, knowing nothing about how to stop this and find those missing girls.\nI can't help but wonder if we're ever going to get anywhere with this case. Supposedly I'm valuable to these people, according to Jared. I don't even know why. I have to be able to use this to my advantage, though, right? How can I use this knowledge to lure someone out? Could I possibly even get the ringleader to show themselves?\n"You're pretty quiet," Taishiro notes, putting an arm around my waist, "You wanna talk about it? Was today too much for you?"\nI shake my head, "No. It wasn't too much just... heartbreaking. I want to prevent something like what happened with Jared and Sakuya from happening again. She just loved her friend. She was blinded by that love."\nHe's silent for long enough that I have to tilt my head to look at him and see what's going through his mind.\nHe looks relieved to the point of being emotional.\n"Taishiro?"\n"I'm just glad you're okay," he finally says, "You did so well today. You were strong. Stronger than I was. I was terrified. I'm a hero and I was the weak one today."\nI relocate Bento to the back of the couch before fully facing the large man in front of me, getting up on my knees so I can be face to face with him.\n"You did everything right and you trusted me and Whitney," I say, taking his round face between my hands, "Thank you for that. And thank you for being afraid for me too."\nHe pulls me to him, bringing my lips to his in a kiss that quickly becomes passionate and I spend the rest of the night in his arms, letting him confirm that I really am still safe and whole; him lovingly reminding me just how little he takes me for granted.\nA few days later, I'm on the phone once more, making yet another call that has my heart racing.\nThe other side picks up.\n"Hello?"\nI'm silent, my wings fidgeting, unable to get into a comfortable position.\n"Hello?" The woman's voice comes again, more confused this time.\nMy stomach clenches and I nearly resign myself to hanging up before I mentally slap myself out of my funk.\n"Hi," I say simply.\n"Oh, hi. I wasn't sure anyone was there," she says kindly, her voice sending waves of nostalgia through me that cut me to the core.\nMy tail is flicking back and forth nervously as I try to keep the phone held to my ear.\n"Sorry. I uh... Sorry."\n"No worries," I can practically hear her smiling through the phone, "Can I ask who's calling?"\nI pause again, unable to find the air to actually answer that. My whole body is trembling now.\nInstead, I forge on, ignoring her question.\n"There's a Christmas party. My boyfriend is having a Christmas party at his agency. He's a hero. His hero name is Fat Gum. If you want to come..." I slide off into silence already regretting my actions.\nThis was a huge mistake. I never should've-\n"Aiko?" My mother's voice asks. She sounds shaky and hopeful. It's almost too much to bear.\n"If you-" I have to stop and regain my composure, "If you want to come, it's on Christmas Eve."\n"Aiko, I-"\nI end the call and bury my face in my hands as I rest my elbows on my desk, breathing heavily as I try to push back tears.\nI couldn't hear her voice one second more. She sounded so... like her; like she always did.\nFinally catching my breath, I sit up straight again and wipe delicately under my eyes, trying not to smudge my eyeliner.\nThe ball is in her court now. If she wants to see me, she can. If she doesn't come, I have my answer.\nIt's at this moment that Eijirou pops his head in the door, his toothy smile seeming to light up the whole room.\n"Ai-senpai, we brought you some- Oh."\nFuck, he can tell I've been (almost) crying. I'm mortified. He respects me so much, it must be disappointing to see me in such a weak state.\nHe seems conflicted and I think he might just close the door again or go get Taishiro but instead he steps inside.\nAfter shutting the door, he approaches my desk, then walks around it.\nHe doesn't ask me what's wrong or if there's anything he can get me, he just looks down at me with pure kindness and empathy.\nThen he leans down and hugs me, arms fully thrown around me, squeezing me in a bear hug and growling like that will add some kind of effect.\nI'm so shocked, I let out a surprised laugh and, hesitantly, put my arms around him as well.\nAfter a few more seconds he pulls back, hands resting on my shoulders, "You seemed like you needed that."\nMy heart feels full and bright once more as I smile up at him.\n"Thanks. I did."\n"Hang on. Hold still." he leans closer again, squinting like he's focusing on something small on my face, then wipes a rough finger across my cheek and holds it out to me. An eyelash.\n"Thanks," I sigh, "You're a life-saver."\nHe huffs a small laugh, throwing the small lash away, "Anything for my senpai. We brought you some lunch if you wanna come down."\n"Oh yeah, sure." I pull a mirror out of my purse to check my reflection and nothing seems out of place now, thankfully.\n"Don't worry. You're as pretty as ever," he says reassuringly, "Come on."\nI take his hand to stand and realize that I can breathe easily again. The weight on my heart has eased and it only gets lighter as I descend the stairs to join the rest of my family for lunch.\n

Chapter 26:\nIt's been a handful of days since Aizawa last visited us for Aiko's training session. She pushed me to go to lunch with him while we're nearby, taking an all too excited pair of teenage heroes-in-training with her on a photoshoot in my stead.\nThat's how I came to be here, sitting at a ramen bar, enjoying some fantastic tonkotsu ramen.\nFor a little while we chatter about how work has been and the kids we've been teaching, lingering on Red Riot as we have him in common. Then, things turn toward cats and we spend a remarkable amount of time just talking about Bento and how I should get another cat.\n"Speaking of cats..." I segue nicely, "Aiko and I talked about... you."\nAizawa stills and his amiable face closes as though he's slammed a door shut.\nHe looks at his food, pretending like he's trying to decide what next to take a bite of, "What do you mean?"\nA predatory grin sneaks onto my face and I elbow him conspiratorially, "I think you know. I think you're interested. It looked like you were enjoying yourself in our last little training session."\n"I wasn't- It wasn't like that..." he growls through clenched teeth, clearly uncomfortable with the subject. His cheeks are getting flushed.\n"Zawa, you know I'm not gonna be angry. She likes when you watch. She likes you touching her. And I like seeing her get pleasure out of-"\n"Fat, can we not talk about this here?" He snaps, eyes darting around wildly as if someone would actually be listening in.\n"Yeah... Yeah, sorry," I concede, going back to my food.\n"I was just... seeing how it felt. Her quirk in action.... For scientific purposes..." he keeps his head down, not meeting my eye.\nI have to hold back a snort. Aizawa... the scientist... sure...\n"O- okay," I play along with his reasoning, "Well if you wanted to try again and get some more... data, I think she'd be okay with it and I wouldn't mind."\nHe still won't look at me but I practically see the cogs turning in his mind.\n"Maybe. I don't know yet. I- Maybe... That's all I can say."\nSuddenly, there's a low rumbling sound that quickly becomes deafening as the ground quakes beneath us.\n"Help!" a panicked woman bursts through the door, spotting us and running toward us, "Help! A villain is attacking the train station! Please come quick!"\nI'm out of my seat in an instant and don't check to see if Aizawa is following behind as I dash out the door. We both have the same priorities as heroes. I already know he's hot on my heels as we sprint toward the station.\n--\nAiko\nI'm back at the plush hotel room we've rented for the night when I hear a soft click and the shuffling of feet as shoes are removed, then Taishiro calls out, "I'm home!"\n"Welcome back!" I call in return, going back to the light pink polish I'm applying to my toes.\n"Sorry I'm later than I said. A villain attacked a station nearby and we went to handle it," he says, his voice getting clearer as I hear his footsteps coming toward the living room.\n"Was everyone alright?" I ask, looking up at him entering the room.\nI freeze. Time slows as it feels like the floor falls out from under me and, suddenly, I can hardly breathe.\n"Aiko?" Taishiro's dirtied face falls. His dirty face... his gaunt face...\nAnd then I can suddenly see the blood caked in his hair, the deep purple bruises on his skin, his eye nearly swollen shut as he lays bleeding on an ornate rug.\n"Fight," he can hardly whisper as tears stream down my cheeks, "Please fight."\n"W-what happened to you?" I ask in a weak voice, striding toward him and reaching out but I stop short. I can't touch him. What if I hurt him?\n"Aiko, I just used my ultimate ability. I'm okay," he closes the space between us as he pulls me to him and envelops me in his arms, "Are you okay?"\nFeeling his warmth beneath my fingertips and his familiar sweaty scent, free of lust, calms my horror just slightly.\n"I-I'm just surprised," I try to reassure both him and myself, "I haven't seen you like this in... a while. It just caught me off guard I guess."\nThe vibration of his chuckle is like a soothing hand, smoothing down my frayed nerves and I sigh into his chest.\n"You know," he purrs suggestively into my ear, "It's been a while since I've had you like this. Now that we have the go-ahead for... certain things, maybe you'll want to relive some of the earlier days."\nCinnamon softly caresses my nose as Taishiro pulls back to lean his face into mine and brush a soft kiss against my lips.\nI jump back in an instant as my stomach tightens into a knot.\n"No. No, please."\nIt's like I'm still looking at him lying on that rug, even as I know he's looking at me in surprise and intense worry.\n"Ai-chan..."\nHe reaches out to me but I jump away, "I can't. I can't. I'm sorry."\n"I'm not hurt," he reiterates, touching up and down his body to prove his point, "I'm perfectly fine."\nAnd I can see him doing it. I know in my head he is healthy and safe. But I still feel horror as I see his smaller frame. I still smell the copper of his blood; hear his rattling breaths. I feel that he's not okay and that he'll break if I so much as touch him.\n"Please..." I beg in a soft, quivering voice, "Please save him. I'll do anything."\nBut those words weren't just in my head, I realize, as Taishiro takes a small step back.\n"We're not there anymore, sweetheart," he says kindly, "We made it out."\nThat doesn't help. I just shake my head, fingers digging into my scalp.\nTaishiro doesn't try to touch me again but steps toward the sofa, seating himself on one side.\n"I'm sorry I upset you. We don't have to do anything," he motions to the other end of the couch, "Will you sit with me, though? We can watch some TV."\nSlowly, I pull my hands from my hair, eyes bouncing nervously between his position and the other end of the couch. There's a sadness in his eyes but he does his best to conceal it with a smile.\nHe thought I'd been getting better. So did I.\n"I'm sorry," I say painfully, tears of shame welling up in my eyes as I slump into the place he offered me. Why can't I just be back to normal? Why do I have to ruin what could've been a passionate night between us this way? Will I always be so broken?\nI can see him lift his hand from the arm rest when I sit but he stops, curling it into a fist and placing it back where he had it.\n"Nothin to be sorry for, honey. You're doing so great, I think you forget sometimes that you're still overcoming a pretty traumatic experience. We both are. Don't be disappointed when it catches up to you every so often. It doesn't change any of the progress you've made. I'm not upset. I just want to spend time with you."\nSeeing it the way he does makes me feel fractionally better. He's right. I do forget sometimes. I just want it to all be done with and to move on. Doesn't everyone wish painful memories just didn't hurt them anymore?\n"Come on, let's see what they have on," he says, grabbing the remote to start clicking through channels.\nWe land on a documentary about meerkats and my body finally begins to ease out of its state of panic as we lounge on either side of the couch.\n"Were you doing something when I came in earlier?" he asks, eyeing the bottle of nail polish on the coffee table.\n"My toe nails," I answer in a much calmer voice than a few minutes ago, flexing my toes out in front of us for him to see, "They're not done though."\nTaishiro gives me a sidelong glance, seeming very cautious when he asks, "Do you... want me to finish them for you?"\nA smile threatens at my lips. Despite how panicked I was, it's difficult to not be amused at his offer.\n"Have you ever painted anyone's nails?"\nA soft blush creeps onto his cheeks, "...in high school. There was definitely a time when painted nails were fashionable, no matter your gender. I... was pretty good at it."\nI try to imagine a younger Taishiro with bright yellow fingernails and it brings a slightly larger smile to my face.\n"Okay," I say, extending my foot toward him carefully, still feeling anxious. My fear of hurting him hasn't left me even though I know he's plenty powerful in this form as well. I haven't forgotten those nights we shared. I just can't help the more painful images that pop up first.\nTaishiro grabs the tiny bottle off the table and twists the cap off. The brush looks infantile in his gigantic hand but he keeps a firm grip on it as he lifts my foot to begin his work.\nHe was right. He is pretty good at this.\nThe mood between us eases even more as I watch him color each of my toenails baby pink. This isn't at all like the last time he held my foot in his hands, massaging and tempting me. This time, there's a different kind of intimacy. One of comfort, tenderness, contentment. And when he finishes a short while later, he blows on the drying paint and releases my foot back to me.\n"Thanks," I say quietly, my fear uncoiling even further, replaced by something new taking root; something beautiful, deep and lasting.\nWe watch the meerkats for a while longer before heading off to bed.\nWhen we're changed and snuggled up under the covers, Taishiro turns to me, gold eyes glinting in the moonlight.\n"Do you still want to cuddle? I promise I won't try anything," he looks away, "I understand if you can't. It won't hurt my feelings. I swear."\nBut something's changing within me. I can feel it. When I look at him, a part of me still sees that battered, bleeding form on Jared's rug. It's becoming less intrusive, though. I'm beginning to be reminded of the time we spent together before all of this happened. The night we met, the small date we went on, the heated moments in the elevator. And now this night with him painting my toes as we watched meerkat family drama.\nI think I'd like to keep making more of these memories with him. So many that they drown out the rest.\n"I want to," I whisper to him, scooching closer.\n"You're sure?" He asks hesitantly, "Don't do it for me. I'll give you all the space you need, sweetheart. I really don't mind."\nI shake my head, "No, I really do want to cuddle you. I'm not... okay. But you make me happy and I want you with me, even if I'm a mess... If that's okay."\nHe smiles warmly at me, clutching me closer to his muscular form, "It's more than okay."\nAnd so I fall asleep with my head resting on his chest, listening to his even breathing and the beat of his heart.\n--\nFat Gum\nI'm laying on a concrete floor again, surrounded by inky, deformed monstrosities. They're holding me down and I've long since lost the strength to fight them any longer.\nI feel like I've been here for years... How long has it really been?\n"Are you out of your mind?" A feminine voice asks, sounding far away, possibly in another room.\nFor one heart-wrenching second, I think it might be Aiko. It's been so long since I've heard her voice. But I know it's not after processing it a little bit longer. Her voice is more... melodic, like a song that speaks to my soul. This one is more abrasive. Though it's still familiar. Who?\nI hardly have enough energy to open my eyes, let alone look for the source of the voice.\n"I'm not letting him have her. I've waited too long!" A male voice comes now, "She was promised to me! Just let me have her!"\n"That's not my choice," the woman responds and it sounds like she's getting even further away, "I'm not taking the fall for this. Stop playing around with him and get rid of him if you're gonna do it. If you're still here by the time I come back, I'll deal with you and him myself."\nShe says more but all I can hear are the indistinct sounds of her voice until a door slams.\nThen footsteps sound as the one who's keeping me here returns his attention to me.\n"I guess it's time," he sighs.\nTime? Time for what? What's about to-\nBlinding pain shoots through my body as one of those things lifts me and I let out a weak groan of agony. My mind is screaming and this is the only sound I can muster.\n"Taishiro..." A feminine voice sounds again. It's really her this time. Aiko. I can hear her. Have I finally gone insane?\n"Taishiro," she calls again.\nI jolt awake, gasping for air as I scramble to figure out where I am. I can look around now. I'm not in pain but I'm so drenched in sweat, the sheets around me are damp.\n"Taishiro," Aiko's sweet voice drifts into my ears again and I finally find her face in the dark, laden with concern.\n"Ai-chan," I say softly, needing to reach out and touch her to make sure she's real.\nShe is. She's really here.\n"Taishiro, you were moaning in your sleep. Were you having a nightmare?" She covers my hand with her own as if that were the only natural reaction. "What's-"\nWithout thinking, I pull her to me, burying my face in her violet hair. The scent of her shampoo tickles my nose and I just lose it. Silent tears fall from my eyes as I try to choke back all-out sobs.\n"Taishiro..." she says again, her voice more emotional this time.\n"I'm sorry," I grit out, "I'll be okay in a few minutes just give me a sec."\nHer hands gently remove my vice-like grip on her, though she doesn't complain. Then she sits up, leaning over my curled-in form.\n"Don't be sorry," she says kindly, "Come here."\nShe pats her lap, indicating where she wants me to lay my head.\nI do as she instructs, resting my head on her soft legs as she runs a hand through my hair. It reminds me a lot of how my mother used to when I was sick or upset.\n"I love you," she whispers and only one single, sparkling tear falls from her cheek, landing on my own, "Don't be sorry. I'm here whenever you need me."\nShe doesn't seem sad when I look up at her, though. She looks happy, calm, content. God, she's so gorgeous in a way I never thought another person could be.\n"I still dream about it," I tell her, my voice rough, "I don't remember anything from then and I forget when I wake up but the way I feel when I wake up tells me that's what I dreamt about. It leaves me with the same feeling."\nShe nods, knowing exactly what and when I'm referring to. I have no doubt she has similar nightmares of her own.\nBrushing sweat-soaked curls from my forehead, her amethyst eyes shine down at me with a fierce protectiveness, "I will always wake up if you need me, Tai. I'm here. I will never make you face this alone. I promise."\nTai... Like my family calls me...\n"Thank you," I whisper into her lap, curling my arms loosely around her hips, "Thank you Ai-chan."\nI lean into her as she continues to comb her fingers through my hair, drawing soothing lines on my scalp.\nThen my breath hitches when I hear the softest of melodies come from her lips. It's barely audible at first, but she gains confidence and lets her voice carry further. It's beautiful, just like I imagined it would be when I watched her dance and sing to no one on that dance floor. She's untrained but something about that makes her imperfect notes all the more calming as she continues her ministrations on my head.\nShe sings softly to me and I try to cling to what feels like this most perfect moment but my muscles inevitably relax and, before I can hear her final note, I drift off to a more peaceful sleep.\n

Chapter 27:\nI've had my outfit for the Christmas party hanging on the door to the closet for a few days a form-fitting, low cut sweater-dress with cable knit leggings. I've been checking and rechecking all of the things we need in order to throw the party and it makes Taishiro chuckle in amusement any time he sees me stressing about something. He always pulls me away when I get like that and assures me everything is prepared. It's more than just me planning this anyway. I shouldn't feel like the only one responsible.\nBut he doesn't understand that it's not really just the party. I can't tell him what all I'm stressing over.\nPart of it is inviting my mother to the party, which he is aware of. Another part, that just keeps getting more and more insistent in my mind, is the fact that I'm not living in my own apartment anymore. Not really. I only go back there when I need clothes or makeup or a particularly comfortable blanket. I haven't stayed the night there in weeks, though I still pay for it.\nWhy am I still paying for a place I don't really live in? What am I holding onto? Am I a bit nostalgic about having lived there for years now? Am I unwilling to part with its opulence?\nNo. None of those things have or would stop me from moving forward.\nMaybe I'm afraid of Taishiro not wanting to take that step forward... But if that were the case, wouldn't he be uncomfortable with me staying here every night already?\nIt's Christmas Eve as I get dressed in the outfit I picked out days ago and ask myself these questions again, only succeeding in going in the same circle I've always gone in.\nTaishiro's zipping up his costume and watching me as I sit in what I would like to consider Aizawa's chair facing the bed, trying on my third pair of shoes to match the outfit.\nI tsk frustratedly and pull these off as well, flinging them away from me as though they've wronged me somehow.\n"These aren't the right ones either," I scoff, "The ones I want are at my apartment. Now I have to run back there before I go to the agency today."\nSnatching up my keys from the table near the entrance, I head toward the door but Taishiro stops me, taking my hand lightly in his.\n"What's wrong?"\n"I just... I don't have the right shoes. Now I have to go back to my apartment, all the way across town, and find the ones I do want and-"\nHis golden orbs glitter down at me as a tiny smile graces his features and I cut myself off, knowing he can see right through this flimsy irritation.\n"Is that really the problem? What's goin on, honey?"\nI can't tell him though. I still don't know what I want! Why is this such a huge problem to me all of a sudden? I have plenty of time to consider this! Why is it bugging me so much?!\n"It's just... the shoes... and I have to go back..." I cast my gaze to the floor, embarrassed and still frustrated.\nTaishiro frowns, bringing a large finger to lift my chin. "You have to go back to your apartment. That's okay. Let's go."\nI shake my head. "I don't want to go. I mean- I do. I have to. But I hate it."\n"You hate your apartment?"\nI huff out a sigh. "No!"\n"I don't understand..."\n"I just hate going back there! I like being here!"\n"So you stay here and I'll go get what you want. We still have plenty of time. I'll video call you when I get there and you can tell me-"\n"No! That's not-" I growl in frustration, grinding my teeth as my tail snaps at the ground, "I don't want to stay while you go."\n"Then what do you want? I'm... kinda confused."\n"I don't know! That's the problem! I don't know!" I snap at him, breathing heavily now.\nTaishiro's eyes are kind, still calm in the face of my obvious meltdown. He waits for me to calm down and collect myself a bit so I can give a better answer than the one I haphazardly just threw out.\n"I just wish my shoes were already here. I-I just don't like going back there when everything I want is here. I want to be here. I don't hate my apartment. I've lived there for years but it..." I hesitate for a long moment before I can finally put into words what I've been feeling this whole time, "It doesn't feel like home anymore."\nI don't know what else to say. I've probably already said too much.\nI pull away from him and turn my back, gripping my keys painfully. I don't like being so indecisive. I'm not trying to be subtle or coy with him. I just don't know what to do! I wish someone could just read my thoughts and tell me what to do that would make me most happy in the end!\nWarm, solid arms surround me, pulling me into Taishiro's soft tummy and I melt under his touch, my worries slowly ebbing away.\n"Do you want to move in with me?" he asks gently.\nMy wings flutter animatedly despite being trapped between us and he chuckles that beautiful chuckle that's so comforting.\n"I-I don't know. I don't know if that's too soon or if we'll hate each other or... something."\nHis chuckle sounds again and he bends lower to nuzzle my hair. "Aiko, you already do live here. You've been here every night and never once have I wished you weren't here with me."\nHe turns me around so he can smile in that affected way he does sometimes that has never made me feel more loved.\n"Bring everything here like you want it to be. Move in with me. I want you to."\nMy wings haven't stopped their fluttering this whole time and they practically flap with excitement at his words.\n"Are you sure? I won't be ruining your bachelor pad or anything?"\nTaishiro guffaws, shaking his head. "I'm not a bachelor. And, yes I'm sure. You won't ruin anything. You never have. You've only made things more beautiful around here."\nI narrow my eyes at him playfully and finally return his grin. "You're such a cheeseball."\n"Is that a yes?" he asks, actually sounding hopeful like I might really say no!\n"Yes, it's a yes," I laugh, pulling him down to meet my lips.\nHe pulls me closer and our kiss deepens, his lips parting to invite my tongue inside.\nI luxuriate in our kiss for a little longer before pulling away. It feels so good that I'm not pulling away because I'm afraid of hurting him but because I don't want to delay us any longer. We have so much left to do before the party is set up!\n"Let's hurry," I pull him toward the door, slipping on some boring winter boots for now, "We might still have time for a little Christmas Eve date before we start setting up!"\nTaishiro allows himself to be dragged along behind me and we head out the door hand in hand.\nUsually Christmas Eve is a day you spend with your significant other going shopping, going to dinner, and just enjoying each other's company. It's one of the most romantic days of the year.\nBut today is the day we chose for our Christmas party.\nI'm not really very disgruntled about having planned the party for today instead of doing all those things with Taishiro, though. I'm not used to spending Christmas with anyone so, for me, the more people the better. Our visit to a cafe to relax over coffee and, for him, some pastries is enough of a date for me.\nIt begins at six so we still have plenty of time to get everything ready when we get to the agency at noon and start preparations.\nAll of the decorations are already up but we still have drinks and food and other forms of entertainment to provide.\nA few hours later, I'm in the middle of putting together little party favors for everyone in the break room when the bells jingle on the door, signaling someone entering.\nThere's silence, which is odd to me because Maki usually greets a visitor quickly, not to mention Taishiro was in the front lobby last I saw him. Why isn't he saying anything either?\nCuriosity gets the better of me and I set down the candy I'd been scooping into each bag, stepping into the hall.\nThe moment I do, the greeting finally comes.\n"W-welcome, how can I help you, ma'am?" Taishiro says shakily.\nWhy does he sound so unsettled? His tone makes me feel more wary now and I consider stepping back into the break room. But curiosity wins out, as usual.\nI stop short when the person he greeted responds, "Yes, I was told there would be a party here. This is the Fat Gum Hero Agency, correct?"\nMy heart feels like it's going in slow motion but, really, all of my muscles are tensed in anxiety.\n"Y-yes ma'am," Taishiro responds, still trying to pull himself together, "But the party starts at six."\n"Oh," she says, sounding disappointed, "I'll just come back later then-"\nShe halts as I finally snap myself out of my stupor and step into the lobby.\nMy mother is tall, like myself, and also has dark violet hair, though there are some grays streaking through it. Her eyes are a keen scarlet color that come to rest on me now.\n"Mother," I say warily, my heart still feeling heavier and heavier.\n"Aiko."\nThere's intense emotion on her face that only serves to make me feel even more choked. She looks... happy to see me.\nI don't know what to do or what to say. It's been years since I last saw her and that had been when we were yelling at each other.\nShe hardly looks much older than she had then.\n"Thank you for inviting me," she says, also seeming awkward.\nI nod in response, looking down, "Thank you for coming."\n"Is there anything I can help with?" she asks this generally, casting her gaze on Taishiro and Maki.\nTaishiro glances at me quickly in question, checking to see if it's okay for her to stay.\n"I'm putting together some gift bags in the break room if you want to help with that," I offer, turning back toward the hallway I just came down.\n"O-okay," she says, following my lead.\nI can already see Taishiro's head turning to Maki whose eyes are blazing with the need to gossip. Oh geez, I'll have a lot of questions to answer when we get done.\nBringing her into the break room, I show her the items I've been placing in each bag and how I tie them up with a fancy bow. She picks it up quickly and we quietly work together for a fairly long period of time.\nThe silence is initially uncomfortable and I feel awkward being around someone who hasn't been in my life for years just calmly working at my side. It gets easier, though, as I recall that she's just mom. We've worked side by side before, making dinner, doing work/homework. Just me and her.\n"That was Fat Gum?" she finally asks me, eyes still on the bag she's working on.\nI freeze. What is she about to say? Is she about to judge him and our relationship just like so many others do the second they see us?\n"Yeah," I answer in a quick burst.\n"He seems like a nice guy."\n"He is," I say fondly, "I love him. We're... moving in together."\nShe goes quiet again, still fiddling with the bag in her hands.\nWhen I glance over at her, I can see a smile on her face, though her eyes are a little sad.\nI want to talk about what happened nearly ten years ago. I want to ask her why she kicked me out and never tried to contact me again. But the words get stuck in my throat every time I consider it.\nI'm afraid, I realize. Even though the energy between us is tense, there's still something between us right now. If I ask about before, it could ruin even that.\n"You look happy," she speaks again, "I'm glad you found someone that makes you look so radiant."\nMy cheeks warm at her compliment. Is it really that obvious?\nNow that I think about it, Taishiro's mom said something similar. It was the final straw to her deciding to accept me.\n"Thanks," I say quietly.\nI'm relieved that she has nothing bad to say about him. She didn't even look surprised or horrified to find I'm with someone that has a wholly different body type than mine. She just smiled which makes me miss her all the more.\nWe lapse back into silence and I can't help but think maybe we can fix this. Maybe Taishiro was right. Maybe she does regret what she did. Maybe she'll apologize and... I don't know what. I don't need a home anymore. I don't need someone to help me with homework or fix my breakfasts. But the possibility that we could have something again is a balm to my aching heart.\n"You uh..." I try to start, though I stumble and have to try again, "You still look the same as ever."\nShe clamps her lips together, clearly trying not to laugh out loud and when she gets ahold of herself she says, "Thanks. You... don't really."\n"Uh.. thanks?"\n"No! No!" she hastily corrects, "What I mean is... you grew up. And even though you were beautiful before, you're stunning now. I'm so glad you were able to make your own way in the world and become the person standing in front of me right now. I'm glad I was wrong."\nI have to set down the bag I've been working on as my chest clenches, "You were wrong?"\n"I... was afraid the modeling world would chew you up and spit you out. I was afraid you would be exploited but I felt like there was nothing I could do. The more I expressed my concern over it, the more determined you seemed so I had to just... let go."\nI'm quiet for a minute, trying to digest what she's said. It's difficult to face the fact that, even though I thought I wasn't a kid anymore, I was and I acted like it. I knew she was worried about me but I thought I knew better. Now I know I was just lucky to not be one of the countless girls who have been trafficked all this time.\n"I wish you hadn't let go in the way you did, though," I'm finally able to say the thing that has been eating away at me for years and years, "I was a self-centered kid but I still needed you."\nMy mother's deep red eyes look regretful now and I can see the truth of Taishiro's words in earnest now. She really is remorseful.\n"Maybe you're right. I shouldn't have. I shouldn't have let you go. I should've tried harder to make you stay. I'm sorry that I failed you and I'm so proud of you for not failing yourself," she says, her eyes looking glassy.\n"To make- to make me stay?" I ask, shaking my head in confusion, "I wanted to stay."\nHer face looks truly pained now, "I wish you would've just said that. I didn't want you to leave."\nI'm honestly baffled right now. Why is she saying it like that? Is she really going to stand there and act like her moving all of my things while I was gone was somehow my choice?\n"That's what you call it? I just 'left'?" I snap at her, already feeling a sneer curling my lip.\n"What would you like me to call it, Aiko?" She asks calmly, seeming sad in the way she says it.\n"What it is! You threw me out! I didn't 'leave'. You packed my bags for me and moved me into another apartment!"\nHer brows pull down as though I've spoken an unrecognizable language to her. I don't know how what I'm saying is so wild though.\n"You wanted to move," she speaks with extreme control in her voice, "I was holding you back from your career, remember?"\nWeight settles on my chest. I do remember saying something like that to her when we were arguing but did she really take it as me wanting to move out? Why didn't she talk to me about it before moving my stuff?\nI sigh, "I didn't want you to just move my stuff like that, though. You kicked me to the curb and I never heard from you again."\n"You never tried to contact me either," she points out harshly, "Not until now."\n"Because you threw me out!" I snarl at her, "I was upset and I was angry and you're my mom! It's your job to get ahold of me and fix things!"\nShe blinks rapidly, looking away from me and toying with a ring on her finger.\n"I thought... you didn't want me in your life anymore," she stammers, her voice choked like she's holding back tears.\n"I was a stupid fucking kid, though!" I can't stop raging at her, just like I always did, "I tell you I hate you and you tell me to go to my room! I tell you I'm gonna run away and you open the door for me but then you let me back inside! You don't just abandon me!"\n"Tomoyo said she'd look after you. She promised-"\n"Tomoyo isn't you!" I slam my fist down on the table, causing a few candies to leap from their bags, "Why did you talk to her instead of me?"\nShe shakes her head, "She suggested it! She said you wanted to leave. And after you told me you were considering emancipating yourself, I knew she was right. She even sent me an apartment listing to move you to. When you never called or talked to me again, I just..."\nThere is a roaring in my head that's drowning everything else out. Tomoyo told my mom to move me out? I'm trying to find a place in my mind where any of this makes sense.\n"You tore my life apart," I tell her, my lips pulled back in a barely contained grimace, "And you didn't even ask me. Even if what you're saying about Tomoyo is true, you didn't even love your daughter enough to ask her to stay. You coward."\nThe expression that I recall my mother making that night I suggested emancipation is back on her face now. Devastation. Except this time I feel no satisfaction at seeing it. I feel just as terrible as she looks.\n"This... was a mistake," she breathes out shakily, picking up her purse.\nI can't say anything to that, just clench my jaw. Of course she would run away again.\nShe makes to walk to the doorway but turns abruptly to me to say one last thing.\n"You have always been my whole world, Aiko. I love you and I'm so happy to see everything you've made of yourself," she brushes a small tear away from under her eye, "I'm so sorry I failed as your mother. But I do still want you in my life... whenever you're ready to have me in yours."\nThen she's gone. Again. And as the minutes pass, it feels less and less like she was ever here at all.\n"Ai-chan, your mom's already-" Taishiro hurries into the room but stops short as I've already pulled out my phone and begun dialing Tomoyo's number. I need answers.\n"Aiko, I would never tell your mother to kick you out," Tomoyo assures me over the phone after I explain everything that went down, "She must've misunderstood me."\n"She said you sent her apartment listings!" I counter.\nBut she's quick to respond, "Oh no! I swear I didn't! Unless... I had another client looking to move into the city at the time. I sent her apartment listings. I suppose it's possible I accidentally sent them to your mother. She never said anything about it so I never noticed. Next thing I know, she's asking me to take care of you..."\nMy jaw aches from how hard my teeth are clenched. My mom did say Tomoyo had promised to take care of me. She'd neglected to mention how she'd been the one to ask her to, though.\n"I'm with another client right now. Let's talk about this more later," Tomoyo says as a voice sounds in the background.\n"No," I reply, trying to keep my cool, "No, it's fine. I'm fine. Nevermind."\n"Ok, whatever you want, Aiko," she says distractedly, "Bye."\nThen the line goes dead and I turn to Taishiro who's been seated at a break table munching on some Takoyaki.\n"I'm sorry things didn't go as well as you'd hoped," he says, offering me consolation if I want it.\nI shake my head. "I'm sorry I brought this drama here. I should've known better."\n"It's fine," he lifts his hand to stop me, "You're part of this agency now. You can bring all the drama here you want."\nChuckling lightly, I continue work on the gift bags. "I appreciate that. But I'll try to keep it from getting too wild."\nA few minutes pass while I work and he snacks. When Taishiro finishes his food, he strides over to me, placing a comforting hand on my head. "You okay, sweetheart?"\nI sigh, keeping my eyes on the last bag I'm finishing. "Yeah. I'm... upset with my mom but I'll be okay. It's not as bad as I thought it would be."\n"Maybe because she said she really does still care about you? Even if she did make all those mistakes in the past, she does still want to know you now."\nI pause, considering his words. He is right about that. And maybe that's why it's not getting to me as much as I thought it would. We're honestly arguing over who did what wrong all those years ago. And, while it does matter, it doesn't change that it happened. What does change things is that she's opened the door to us having a relationship again. She hasn't left me hanging. She made it my choice to pursue it further and, so far, hasn't made that offer conditional based on my forgiveness.\nI set down the now finished final gift bag, and with it, the heaviness in my chest. "You're right. I don't know if I can face her right now, though. I'm still angry. I want her to admit that she messed up. Maybe I'll get over it eventually but right now, I just need space from her."\nTaishiro makes a face that says "That's fair" and leaves it at that.\nWe set about getting everything else finished up just in time for the first person (Togata) to walk through the door a half hour before the party starts.\nAfter that, it's a nearly continual stream of guests arriving. We'd said "just some close friends" hadn't we?\nAizawa walks in dressed rather nicely for once in a suit and tie. Trailing along behind him is his ward, Eri, who oos and ahs at all of the lights and music. She's dressed in a pretty red dress that matches her eyes. She seems to be the only child here, though, and it worries me she might not have fun but my concern is soon waylaid when Eijirou and Tetsutetsu speed over to greet her. They're running around playing games and laughing loudly before long.\nMirko also shows up in a slinky dress along with none other than Hawks and another man I recognize as the number one ranked hero in Japan.\n"Endeavor! Mirko! Hawks! You made it!" Taishiro rushes to greet them.\nWow. Endeavor is huge, though not as tall as Taishiro. But he certainly would've been my type back in the day if not for his surly attitude. I recall well enough seeing him on TV and any time someone had tried to interview him, he'd been short with them. Certainly, nothing like All Might.\nI, of course, get a sly smile and a conspiratorial wink from Hawks despite the fact that we share absolutely no secrets whatsoever. He's certainly a brave man for someone I could probably step on without even noticing. Though now I think about it, maybe he's into that sort of thing.\nWhitney slips in with her mentor, Vector, but quickly finds her way to Tamaki's side, who promptly greets her with a little more openness than usual. Togata, for the moment, is nowhere in sight so I do my best to hope the peace will be kept tonight.\nBy the time seven o' clock rolls around, the whole lobby is filled with heroes, models, officers, and a few students the boys had invited.\nTaishiro and I move around the room, chatting with people and letting them know where to find refreshments.\nIt's kinda exhausting being a host. This isn't really like the time we threw him a birthday party. That was mostly just the agency employees with a few visitors here and there. Now, there are people everywhere.\nWhen it gets to be closer to eight, Taishiro goes upstairs to get tea or something. It's hard for me to hear exactly what he says over the din of music and multiple voices chattering at once but he disappears for a solid ten minutes before descending the stairs again dressed in a bright red Santa costume, beard and all.\nBy this time, plenty of us are tipsy enough that there's cheering and clapping and whooping as he makes his way down, a broad grin lighting up his face as he calls out "Ho Ho Ho!"\nI can only watch with my mouth agape as my wings beat rapidly behind me.\nThere's no way he knew I was fantasizing about him like this but seeing him now has brought all those steamy thoughts back to the forefront as I watch him go from person to person, pulling out the gift bags I'd been filling earlier from a sack he has slung over his shoulder.\nWhen he's closer, I can hear him ask Tamaki, "And what do you want for Christmas, young man?"\nTamaki is giggling. He's really giggling! Is he drunk? Why do I feel like he didn't realize eggnog had alcohol in it?\n"I- I don't know. A set of noise-canceling headphones maybe?"\n"Hohohoho! What a grand idea!" Taishiro chuckles as he hands Tamaki one of the small bags, "I'll see if I can make that happen!"\nWhen he gets to the table, he sets his sack down then takes a seat on one of the foldout chairs we set up. It almost doesn't hold his massive form but it just barely manages.\nFirst to approach him is Eri, her face flushed after playing with the boys for so long, though she's acting shy now.\nAizawa places an encouraging hand at her back and she steps forward.\n"Come sit," Taishiro says, patting his lap, and it takes her a moment and some effort to climb up, but she eventually gets there, "What would you like for Christmas, little one?"\nEri mentions some cute hair accessories that have been advertised a lot leading up to the holiday season as well as some other trendy items. I notice that Aizawa is paying rapt attention to her every word, checking his phone as though he's got a shopping list on there. He's probably cross referencing what she's saying with what he's already bought. I hope that works out for him.\n"Oh I bet you'll be excited for what's under the tree for you this year, Eri-chan," Taishiro chuckles heartily, ruffling the top of her hair.\nHer eyes go wide with wonder and a grin spreads across her sweet face. "You really think so, Santa?"\nTaishiro laughs again, "Of course!"\nSeeing Taishiro's face brighten this way toward her has my heart aching again. He's so patient and caring with her. What is it about that look in his eye that has me so breathless?\n"Eri, it's time to head back now," Aizawa cuts in, waving her away, "Tell Santa bye."\n"Bye Santa!" she says with a toothy grin, hopping off of his lap with ease.\n"Good night and sweet dreams, little one," he says with another added "hohoho!"\nThen his eyes turn mischievously on Aizawa who continues to stand only a few feet away while Eri runs around saying goodbye to everyone.\nAizawa does a double take when he notices Taishiro's attention on him.\n"Come sit, Zawa," he says, patting his lap in the same way he had for Eri.\n"No," the slightly less sullen man says curtly.\nI'm a little disappointed at that. If he had sat down, I might've been just one step closer to that fantasy of mine.\n"Aww, but you have to come tell Santa what you want for Christmas," Taishiro chortles, still trying to coax him over.\n"Socks," Aizawa says simply, uncompromising.\nHe's no fun and I pout my lower lip at him when I catch his eye, exaggerating my disappointment.\nHis eyes watch my lips for a couple seconds too long before coming back to meet my own and he glowers at me like a cat who's just been caught misbehaving then turns away.\nEijirou has no qualms about running up to Taishiro and jumping in his lap, though.\nA hefty "oof" comes from Taishiro before he recovers, "What is it you'd like this year, young man?"\n"Oh wow, where to start? Hang on," Eijirou pulls out his phone and starts listing items off, even going so far as to show Taishiro pictures of certain things.\nTaishiro is nodding along, though hardly paying attention. His eyes find mine and they practically twinkle with delight as he inclines his head to motion me over.\nI'm all too willing. I don't know what it is about this portrait of him sitting there in that red outfit and fake white beard but it is definitely doing things for me.\nI make my way over step by leisurely step, letting Taishiro drink all of me in, from the length of my legs, to the perfectly styled curls in my hair.\nI wait my turn, though, letting Eijirou go through his list while Taishiro occasionally steals glances at me, eyes sometimes getting caught on the way my fingers are toying with the pendant that dips into my cleavage.\nFinally he finishes and jumps up from his place on Taishiro's lap with a hyper, "Thanks Santa!"\nHe knows this isn't actually Santa, right? Of course he does. He has to know that.\nBut my worries for him fade when I notice Taishiro's honeyed stare inviting me closer.\nI step nearer now and he pats his lap, eyes still locked on mine. Something deep and greedy simmers there.\nAs I take my place on his knee, smiling demurely, his hand comes to my hip and pulls me closer, jumpstarting my heart into a sprint.\n"And what," his eyes trail the vast curves of my body as he leans closer to me, his fake beard tickling my face, "is it you'd like for Christmas, young lady?"\nA shiver runs down my spine to the very tip of my tail. Fuuuuuck, Santa Claus should not be making my panties so damn soaked.\n"I- I'm not sure," I say, squeezing my thighs together to try and curb the growing heat between them.\nBut the action has not gone unnoticed by him. His grip on my hip tightens and his breath glides across my ear as he says, "Is that so?"\nHis other hand reaches for my thigh, lightly trailing back and forth on the soft skin there.\n"Well- Well I..."\nMy eyes unintentionally go to the surprisingly well-dressed man who's now speaking with Eijirou and Tetsutetsu who are nodding in understanding as though he's giving them instructions.\nTaishiro follows my gaze and I can feel more than hear the vibration of his chuckle as he leans in again. "That's a tough present to get you, sweetheart. You'll have to be patient."\nThen Aizawa's eyes shift our way again and I jump slightly, turning back to Taishiro.\n"I can think of something I want a little more..." I trace a red-painted fingernail down the overly shiny white hair of his beard as the tip of my tail strokes along his calf.\nTaishiro shivers, his eyes growing darker and dipping down into my cleavage again.\nHe clears his throat. "A-And what might that be?"\nLeaning even closer, I can hear his intake of breath as I give him an even better view all the way down my dress.\n"Come find out."\nThen I stand, heels tapping lightly on the tiled floors, and walk away from him, well aware that he's watching each swish of my hips side to side.\nMy eyes catch Aizawa's momentarily and he seems absolutely scandalized as I brush past to get to the stairs and begin my ascent.\nWhen I get to the top and look down, I see Taishiro still hasn't stood but his eyes are on me. He seems to be in some amount of pain, probably trying to decide how quickly he should bound up after me as to not draw any suspicion.\nOh but how I love seeing that tortured look on his face. And, moreso, the punishment I'll probably earn for putting him through it.\nMaking my way into the office, I close the door behind me. I've just finished removing my heels and leggings when heavy feet approach the door and Taishiro bursts through, almost tearing the thing off its hinges. His cinnamon scent is already thick.\n"In a hurry, Santa?" I ask with a wicked smirk as I lift myself gracefully onto his desk.\nHis pupils are blown, lending to the nearly feral look about him as he tears his faux beard away.\n"You know, we're supposed to be hosting a party right now" he growls, his eyes unable to keep from trailing up my legs.\n"Oh no," I snicker, lifting one leg excessively high just to cross it over the other, flashing him my panties in the process, "Am I on the naughty list now?"\nHe smiles wickedly as he draws nearer, reaching out to lay a hand on my knees and pry my legs apart again so he can rest between them. "So that's what you want? You want dirty Santa talk?"\nMy only reply is to pull him even closer letting him loom over me in that plush red suit.\nOur lips meet in a hungry kiss and, for once, I feel more like he's devouring me than the other way around. His tongue is marinated in the flavor of his lust as though he's just been soaking in it, trying to keep himself under control.\nA guttural groan sounds from my throat as I clutch his red jacket, hooking my legs around him.\nHe pulls back from my lips to kiss his way along my jaw, down to my throat, and I feel the firmness of his arousal pressing between my thighs.\nI'm practically shaking with my want for him, my panties growing even more soaked as he keeps grinding himself against me.\nHis lips are still at my neck when he says, "I don't know if you've been nice enough this year to get your gift from Santa."\nI shudder, my tail writhing beneath me.\n"I have!" I beg breathily, "I have been nice!"\n"I think you've probably been more naughty," he oh-so-painfully slowly rolls his hips against mine once more, "But I'm feeling in the giving spirit. I can be persuaded if you promise to leave out some milk and cookies for me."\nI snort in such an unattractive way, I think I might've ruined the mood. Taishiro just joins me in my laughter with that tantalizing chuckle of his.\n"You can't say that," I wheeze, "That's not sexy!"\n"Oh you don't think Santa would be motivated by some of your milk and cookies?" He lifts his brows at me in a comically suggestive manner that has me in another fit of laughter.\n"Maybe this Santa," I pull him into another short kiss as my giggles calm.\nPushing him back, I slide my panties down my hips, shimmying out of them expertly without getting from my perch on the desk. Taishiro's heated stare doesn't move from my body the whole time, his breaths getting heavier as he watches.\n"Now come get your milk and cookies, big boy," I laugh, laying my back on the cold desk, my head just barely hanging off of it enough I have to hold it up.\nHe's laughing too as he looms over me again, pulling at the waist of his pants to free his considerable length.\nHe strokes himself along my waiting wetness, waiting until he's lubricated enough before pushing inside of me with a soft sigh.\n"You always feel so perfect, Ai-chan," he says, trembling slightly, and I just whimper in response, bucking my hips up against his.\n"Could you two be any more obvious about what you're up to?" A rough, humorless voice cuts into my haze of lust.\nTaishiro pulls back from me; but only fractionally. We both recognize that voice.\nI look around his bulky form to see Aizawa in the room, already having come through the door and closed it behind him. Damn, I must've been way more zoned out than I thought.\nHis expression is displeased but his dark eyes shine with intrigue. "You're acting like a couple of teenagers sneaking off to hook up in a closet."\n"It seems to me like it was only obvious to you," I retort with a catty smirk, clenching around Taishiro when he tries to back up. I'm not done with him yet. He can only gasp in surprise, thick hands gripping my thighs.\n"Definitely not," Aizawa growls impatiently, beginning to make his way around the side of the desk so he can more easily meet my eye, "Everyone down there noticed. I'm the only one who would follow you."\nI arch a brow at that and the way his face smoothes from irritation to realization tells me that he's also noticed how much he's revealed there. He just as quickly pulls that mask right back up, though.\n"I thought you were headed home?" I ask, still being defiant while pulling Taishiro yet closer, sinking him deeper within me something that Aizawa has not failed to notice.\n"I sent Eri home with the boys. It's getting late. I was going to stay a little later and get a ride from Endeavor after the party was through. I didn't think I'd have to be subjected to this again, though."\n"You didn't have to be subjected to it. That was your choice," I sass.\nHe just glares at me.\nTaishiro meets my eyes, a question in them. Do I want the gift I'd asked for earlier? Because this could be our chance.\nAizawa is acting like he's irate with us but I can easily see the heat in his gaze. He could've just stayed downstairs like everyone else, even if he had known what we came up here to do. We're adults. We can sneak off for a few minutes if we want.\nHe might've told himself that he was coming up here to scold us but, deep down, he knows he came up here to see us. Possibly more.\n"Zawa, you wanted to know more. For scientific purposes, right?" Taishiro raises his brows in question.\nScientific? At first I'm confused and slightly annoyed but the smirk on Taishiro's face tells me he's baiting him. He's just giving him a way he doesn't have to readily admit he wants to join. I'll make him admit it before the end, though, if I can get my hands on him.\n"There is a whole room full of people downstairs," Aizawa shakes his head, still scolding.\n"Afraid you'll be too loud, sensei?" I flash him a teasing smile.\nHe glares daggers back at me, not deigning to respond, though his eyes smolder like infernal coals.\n"That's okay," I offer, "You can still watch him fuck me like you always do."\nWith that, I push Taishiro back a bit, then pull him back in again, sheathing him completely.\nTaishiro groans and doesn't hesitate to begin a modest yet forceful pace, making my entire body bounce along with his rhythm. It's hard to keep my moans muffled but I manage, trying to keep them below the volume of the music.\nI'm beginning to feel genuinely hot, my sweater dress suffocating me, and I look over at Aizawa who is still watching, his expression reproachful. He's still here, though. That counts for something.\n"Can you pull my sweater off for me, sensei?" I ask him with flirtatious eyes, stretching my arms above my head, "I'm hot."\nTaishiro pauses for him to answer, probably interested in the response.\nAizawa's eyes flit from me to Taishiro and to my hands above my head, waiting for him to simply slip off my garment.\n"Just have him do it," answers snippily.\n"Oh me? I'm busy," Taishiro resumes his pace, keeping his hands firmly on my thighs.\nThe snarl that comes from Aizawa is frustrated yet there is definitely some animalistic desire in there somewhere.\n"Fine," he spits out, moving the rest of the way behind the desk as he rolls up his sleeves, then grabs at my dress.\nHe pulls at it more gently than I expected, gradually sliding my dress up my torso, over my head, and finally off my arms.\nThe cooler air hits my skin and I breathe a sigh of relief as Taishiro grunts his approval, one hand already snaking up my stomach and under my bra. His thick fingers brush my nipple and I let out another gasp.\nAizawa is still in his spot above my head, having dropped my sweater in the chair behind him, and I meet his eyes again. His pine scent is beginning to grow.\n"My bra?" I give him a faux innocent look.\nHe hesitates a moment and I think he'll probably say no. But he reaches out again, willing me to lift myself enough for him to get his hand underneath me and Taishiro stills once more, allowing him to more easily unhook it.\nAizawa's hands brushing along my neck as he holds my hair out of the way has me incredibly distracted. It has me remembering those dexterous fingers at my lips, stroking along my tongue as he unhooks my bra and is careful of my wings while pulling it away. Then, he lays me back down, once again making sure my wings are smoothed.\nIt takes no coaxing at all for Taishiro to resume his pace again, happy as a clam to be slamming into me while teasing my nipple and watching my breasts bouncing along with his efforts now.\nI fall into the pleasure of his scent and the way he pushes straight to my core. It doesn't take long before I start moaning loudly; probably too loud to be appropriate.\n"You need to be more quiet," Aizawa softly growls from his position above me, though from the way his scent is thickening, I'd say he quite likes it.\nI ignore him, clutching at the desk to get leverage and push myself against Taishiro just as hard as he's slamming into me.\n"Mmmm, Ai-chan," Taishiro groans, "That's a good girl."\nI can hardly handle the way those words wash through me and I let out even louder whimpering cries, unable to contain myself.\n"Quiet," Aizawa snarls again, leaning closer.\n"Make me," I hiss, momentarily forgetting myself.\nThe wild look within Aizawa's eyes is startling for a second before he grabs my face, smooshing my cheeks like he had before.\n"You're going to get caught," he snaps, "Do you want that embarrassment? For you? For Fat?"\nI just grin back at him, still somewhat lost in the daze of the amazing fucking I'm recieving, and cry out again.\nThis time, Aizawa just lays a hand over my parted lips, muffling my moans.\n"You are shamefully disobedient," he says huskily, as though he likes that more than hates it.\nI can't stop myself. I've been fantasizing about this for days. My tongue dips out of my mouth, lapping delicately at his fingers to taste that smokey flavor once more.\nAizawa freezes, gripping my face a little bit more firmly.\n"What are you doing?"\nBut of course I cant answer. He's covering my mouth. I just give him a half-lidded stare and lap at him again, my tongue lingering this time.\n"Stop," he says, sounding out of breath.\n"If you wanted me to stop, you'd take your hand off of my mouth," I retort, though my words are heavily muffled, I'm not sure if he understood me at all.\nBut it seems he has understood when his eyes somehow darken further.\n"You'll start being loud again," he breathes.\nHis hand loosens just a little in order to hear my response. "So occupy my mouth with something else."\nHe has nothing to say to that. He just stares at me, then glances up to Taishiro who's slowed to hear our conversation and has a feral grin on his lips.\n"You heard her, 'Zawa. Make her be quiet."\nFor one heart-stopping moment I worry this might've all been a mistake; that he might be turned on by this, but since he's aware of just how dangerous my quirk can be, he would never want to actually join in.\nBut Aizawa's scent radiates from him like a tidal wave, crashing over me and calming these concerns.\nHe slowly loosens his hold on my mouth, a glare warning me not to start my moaning up again. Then, as though he's stealing cookies from a cookie jar, he reaches two fingers to my parted lips.\nHe strokes shaking fingers along them for a moment, staring intently, and I feel every point of contact like lightning down my spine. Even Taishiro grunts feeling the way I'm squeezing him.\nThen his fingers are in my mouth, touching my tongue, running roughly padded fingers over my taste buds. I waste no time in curling my tongue around them; caressing, welcoming.\nI close my lips around the two digits, sucking lightly, and the sound that comes from Aizawa's mouth is strangled as his scent and flavor only grow thicker.\nA soft chuckle can be heard from Taishiro below as he picks up his speed again, pulling a rough moan from my throat that has Aizawa reeling from the reverberations in my mouth. He bows his head, his free hand, also shaking, going to his forehead.\n"I-I shouldn't-"\nHe jumps when my hand comes up to brush his inner thigh.\n"Shouldn't you?" My eyes convey.\nA growling burst of air comes from his lips and he grits his teeth. "You're a different kind of monster than you think you are."\nMy muddled mind doesn't have time to fully grasp what he means by that before he's pulling his fingers away from my mouth and unzipping his fly. He pulls out his extremely aroused length that makes my mouth water just viewing. Of course he's not as big as Taishiro but fuck all if I care. That'll make him easier to swallow. And, believe me, I want that cock down my throat like I want food in my stomach.\nI can't keep myself from opening my mouth wide, sticking out my tongue in a silent plea. Though, maybe it's not entirely silent. He's not gagging me anymore and my keening whine is getting louder and louder the longer he makes me watch him.\n"I told you, to stay quiet," he barks, "You still haven't learned."\nHis cock is shoving roughly into my mouth then, all the way to the back of my throat, where he stops and waits, possibly for me to push him away. But I have no such intention. This is exactly what I wanted what I've dreamed of and I close my lips firmly around his shaft, my tongue ushering him in deeper.\n"Aren't you a greedy little thing," he growls, granting my wish and sinking himself all the way in with a grunt.\nTaishiro begins a more forceful rhythm as I clench in my ecstasy, hitting my most sensitive spot with vigor. He pulls monstrous screams from me that are choked out by the delicious cock invading my mouth as Aizawa begins to move.\nHe's not as fierce as Taishiro was the first night we met but he's clearly trying to be careful and not hurt me, despite how obvious my pleasure is. But he still lets out tiny little grunts as he thrusts into my mouth, his breathing labored.\n"Oh you are a greedy girl," Taishiro pants out, "Begging for two cocks and loving every second of it."\nHe's right. Fuck, he's so right. I do love it! I love every single second of Taishiro's thick length in my cunt and Aizawa's cock thrusting down my throat. I love hearing both of them groaning and panting as they derive their pleasure from me. I love Taishiro's hands at my thighs, bruising them with the effort. I love Aizawa's fingers tangled in my hair, keeping me steady so he can fuck my mouth deeper.\nI want them to fill me with their cum and then do it all over again. What would be better? Aizawa fucking my ass instead? Fuck, am I the nastiest slut alive.\nI grip Aizawa's pant legs, trying to just hold on as both men thrust into me with varying rhythms, sending me to new heights of pleasure. There are still screams coming from my throat but they are completely muffled and nigh inaudible over the merry Christmas music downstairs.\nFuck me, I don't even want to go back down to that party. I want these two to stay here and fuck me all night until I don't even remember who I am anymore.\nTaishiro's body tenses then. He's been sustaining this pace for quite a long time now, excited to watch me getting my wish, but now he can't hold it back anymore.\n"You want me to fill you up, honey?" He asks, voice deep and velvety, "You want your pussy pumped full of cum?"\nI can't scream out "yes" but I answer by tightening my legs around him. My own orgasm is building in me and I know hearing that ecstatic groan from him will send me over the edge.\nTaishiro picks up speed and I notice Aizawa has done the same. Is he about to cum too?\nA guttural groan peals from Taishiro's throat almost too loud and his thrusts slow as his cock throbs inside of me, filling me exactly how I wanted and pushing me over into my own orgasm, crying out and moaning with every wave that crazes over me.\nThe need to pull more energy surges up within me again. But something about it being Aizawa, not Taishiro, in my mouth makes keeping my control easier. My body enjoys his taste but it's overwhelmingly greedy for Taishiro.\nMy grip on Aizawa's legs tightens and my nails dig into the formal fabric as I fight to keep my monster at bay. Only the smallest of claws slip out and prick his skin, eliciting a hiss both of pleasure and pain from him. He hasn't noticed. His hips are still moving but he's shaking now, his muscles tensing.\n"You ready?" he asks and I can only respond with a muffled "Mmph."\nHe swiftly pulls from my mouth and strokes himself vigorously, the smallest staccato whimpers sounding from his throat, before he shakes violently and hot, white streams of cum land on my face, chest, and a little into my waiting mouth.\nNothing is heard in the room for a short while save for the cheery music downstairs and the heavy breathing, calming to a more relaxed rate.\nAizawa is the first to straighten up, tucking himself back into his pants and zipping them up again.\n"Hang on I'll... I'll clean you up," his rough voice says, back to normal.\nHe exits the room and I look down toward Taishiro, our eyes meeting. He looks pretty satisfied.\n"Did you have fun?"\n"Yes," I rasp out, my voice not at 100% yet.\n"I liked seeing you like that," he says with dark pleasure, "So needy and desperate. I want you again right now just remembering."\n"You have a party to get back to," Aizawa grouses, reentering the room with wet and dry paper towels, "No more of this."\nComing back around the desk, he begins wiping away the evidence of the last 10 minutes between us, his touch practically clinical.\nI wonder if he's regretting it or embarrassed (okay, he's most definitely embarrassed) and if he'll ever do this with us again. Was it enjoyable?\nI get my answer soon enough when he reaches my face, pausing at my lips and brushing his thumb over them, transfixed. He stays there for just a few seconds before moving on and finishing his work.\nYeah, he'll come back and do it again.\nOnly a handful of people have noticed us missing as I make my way downstairs again, followed a few minutes later by Taishiro, then Aizawa. Unfortunately, one of those people is Tamaki who won't even look our way and only blusters when Taishiro approaches him, his face a deep shade of pink.\n"I-I'm gonna head out, Fat. I'll see you tomorrow."\n"Really? You don't wanna stay til the end?" Taishiro seems a bit disappointed at his early departure.\n"Yeah. Yeah I'm sure. I-I'm tired," he says, tugging his hood far over his face.\nImmediately, as if called by a dog whistle, both Whitney and Togata are at his side.\n"I'll walk you home," Togata offers, "We can hang out some more after!"\n"I'll go... if you want," Whitney says, seeming shy.\nTamaki sighs. I think he might finally be understanding what's going on here, and is probably feeling exhausted by it. I'm not sure what's happened throughout the evening's activities but something tells me those two were bickering again.\n"No," he pulls on his hood further, "I'm feeling a little burnt out. It's getting late anyway and I don't want you to go out of your way."\n"I don't mind," Whitney says, poking her two pointer fingers together.\n"It's nothing, bud. I'm happy to go with you," Togata cuts in.\nTamaki is overwhelmed. He clearly wants out and I don't even know if I can help him with how uncomfortable he seems to be around me and Taishiro right now.\n"Oh you guys can't go too!" I blurt out, "Stay and party a little bit longer! Tamaki will be fine! You set all this up after all, Togata! And your mentor is still here, Whitney!"\nThe other two look hesitant but Tamaki seems relieved.\n"Don't let me ruin your night," he says, "Go have fun."\nResigned, Togata caves, "Well... I'll see you off then."\nTamaki nods and heads toward the door, pushing through the crowd uncomfortably while Togata trails after him, Whitney hot on their heels.\nI can see the two elbowing at each other, trying to be the one to see him off. They're acting like kids in a slap fight over a favored toy. It feels like their behavior is just getting worse and worse, I swear.\nWhen Tamaki turns, the two stop with their bickering and both step forward but only glare at the other when they notice they've done the same thing.\n"Night, guys. Thanks for hanging out with me," he says, a sweet, heart-melting smile gracing his features. Even my breath catches for a couple seconds. He doesn't smile that way very often.\nThey both sit in stunned silence for a few seconds. I think they might've lost the ability to speak.\n"Goodnight, Suneater."\n"Night, buddy."\nThey both respond in unison.\n"And you're..." Tamaki blushes, pointing, "You're under mistletoe."\nNot quite understanding what he means by that, both of them look like they're about to lunge at him as though it was an invitation but Taishiro catches them by the backs of their outfits as he turns to walk away.\n"He meant you two," he chuckles, patting them heavily on the backs.\nWhitney eyes the mistletoe hanging above her head as Togata looks away solemnly.\nThey're not going to kiss. Not even a peck. That much is obvious. There's too much animosity between them. And I don't think Tamaki was trying to push them together in that way anyway. He wants them to get along; he wants them to understand each other. They should at least look at each other and see how much Tamaki's feelings should matter more than their wants.\nTogata's ears are turning a soft shade of pink and he seems like he's biting the inside of his cheek before he says, "I'm sorry... I guess. For what I said last week. It was purposefully hurtful. I'll be honest: I don't like you. But that's not the person I want to be."\nWhitney's neon eyes are wide, blinking in shock. I have to admit, I'm surprised at his sudden honesty too.\nThere's an internal battle going on within her and she looks truly torn by something. His words seem to have struck a nerve with her. All of her bravado and fight leaves her and when she addresses him again, she looks ashamed.\n"I'm... not behaving like the person I want to be either. I'm sorry," she replies and pats him on the shoulder before walking away to find her mentor.\nMy and Taishiro's eyes meet, unsure how to feel about the situation. Was that them coming to an understanding? It didn't really feel like anything was resolved. But the arguing is over for tonight at least and we can finish out the night with our friends peacefully.\nThe next few weeks fly by so fast, I nearly forget about New Year's.\nAfter informing my rental company that I'll be cutting my lease short, they're keen to get me out as soon as possible so they can find a new tenant. Apparently this building is rather high in demand, for good reason. So I agree to be gone by February 1st.\nWow. Was that ever a mistake.\nEven having moved a lot of clothing and supplies over to Taishiro's already, having just over a month to pack the things I do want while selling off most of my furniture is a complete nightmare.\nTaishiro offers to spend a couple days helping me pack and I give him the easy task of emptying out my dresser. All he has to do is place it all in boxes anyway, no special hangers needed or anything. Though he does seem to get caught up for a second when he opens my underwear drawer. I left most of my lingerie here, not wanting to poke a beast when we still can't fully be intimate.\nI busy myself in my closet, putting more valuable and sensitive fabric items in special boxes but pause when I can't hear him rustling around in the drawers anymore.\nPoking my head out to see if he might've gone to the bathroom or something, I find him sitting on the bed instead of at my dresser.\n"Taishiro?" I ask with concern, "Is everything-"\nI stop. He's holding my letter. My letter I'd all but forgotten was in there. He's reading it. Probably because it was addressed to him.\n"Taishiro..." I come to stand in front of him and he seems to finish reading as he looks up at me, eyes glassy.\nReaching out, he pulls me to him, clutching me like he often does those nights he wakes from nightmares.\n"I love you," he whispers into my neck, "I love you so much. I would've never gotten over you if I'd never seen you again. You are just..." he breathes a moment, trying to get his thoughts in order "everything. You're everything to me."\nMy wings flutter along with my heart hearing him speak this way. "I love you too, Tai. More than anything."\nI curl myself up in his lap and let him envelop me in his warmth. Some of my favorite moments are just sitting alone with him, feeling his arms around me like this.\n"You really wouldn't get over me?" I ask lightheartedly.\nHe's more relaxed now when he whispers into my ear, "God, no. Have you seen your ass?"\nI burst out laughing and he joins, sporting a pleased grin at having gotten me to do so.\nAnd I kiss him, feeling so carefree in the moment. His response is swift and loving, running thick fingers through my hair as holds me close.\nI pull back, about to tell him that we need to get back to work but he doesn't release me, keeping me pinned to him. "Oh no. Not this time, sweetheart. We have time now and I'm not ready to get back to work yet."\nHe kisses me again, more energetically this time and I can tell exactly what he's working his way toward.\nUgh, fine. Fuck these clothes for now. If he's feeling all frisky, maybe he's in the mood to get rough again.\nSo we spend our time in one of the ways we like best, fucking each other's brains out, the letter I'd written him so long ago falling to the floor, forgotten.\nThus, we officially begin living together and... nothing feels different.\nHe goes to work every day and I often go with him. Sometimes I stay at home. Sometimes I have a shoot and he'll accompany me, other times Tamaki or the ever-excited rock boys will come instead.\nWe still meet up and work on the investigation with the rest of the team but it's mostly Whitney who's heading it up now that she's gotten her in. She hasn't asked me to help her with anything again but I can tell she's working hard.\nWe talk, sometimes at length, about her leaving hero work; how she'll break it to her family and to her boss. I can sense intense anxiety in her when she talks about it and I can't help but wonder just how uncompromising they've been with her that she would be afraid to tell them what she wants most in life.\nBut it seems like she's going to tell them whenever she finishes this assignment and has been putting more effort in because of that.\nIt hasn't seemed like a girl has gone missing lately at least not any models or aspiring models and we're starting to wonder if the ring has focused their target somewhere else for now. It's clear that after Jared and the incident with Sakuya has them spooked.\nEven though it keeps us from our end goal of saving the girls who've been kidnapped, in a way, I'm somewhat relieved that we've at least kept more girls from being taken for now and I feel less like I have to watch my back every second. I'm finding myself less and less afraid of venturing out on my own whether it be for a shoot or on a run through the park (something I haven't done in months). Taishiro has also grown less anxious about it, the more insistent I've become to do things on my own. He doesn't push to keep me sheltered.\nMy training with Aizawa continues as well and, as I suspected, he joins us again and again, though still being firm in his training as well. Sometimes he even turns it into something akin to a torture session for me; making me stop and pull back my quirk, even as he and Taishiro keep pumping into me.\nDespite how grueling these sessions can be, I am seeing improvement. I've begun to be able to control how much and how little energy I pull, though I still teeter on the edge of control when my passion is high with Taishiro. Some days I can reign myself in. Other days, I feel like I'm spiraling out of control and the only thing that saves me is Aizawa there to nullify my quirk.\nI'm not losing hope, though. I will master this quirk. I'll do it for Taishiro and I'll do it for anyone else out there who might have the same quirk as I do.\nIt's in this delightful bubble of happiness we spend the rest of winter until April comes around and the cherry blossoms begin to paint the world pink and white.\nI've been sitting at home all day, vegging out because I woke up this morning with a slight fever, feeling lethargic despite my energy not being low, and my body aching.\nIt doesn't surprise me that I'm getting sick, what with the seasons changing and all. It's been over a year since I last had a cold.\nTaishiro insisted I relax at home and now, after work, has brought home dinner; a salad and soup for me and some usual fried item for him, along with a nice big box of takoyaki.\nBut as the scent of those little balls of fried octopus wafts my way, my mouth starts watering. They smell amazing.\n"Did you get some kind of special takoyaki this time?" I ask, eyeing the box in his hands as he pops the balls one by one into his mouth.\n"Uh..." he considers, "Not that I'm aware of."\n"You went somewhere new?"\nHe shakes his head at this as well. "No. Just the usual place down the street."\nI keep glancing at his box that's steadily getting emptier and emptier. Why do they seem so appealing right now? Maybe some kind of comfort food thing? I do remember my mom making me takoyaki sometimes...\n"You... want one?" He asks with one arched brow. The last time he fed me one was a long, long time ago and, since then, he hasn't pushed me to eat the same things he does.\n"I... I guess I'm just in the mood for comfort food," I say, leaning in to pluck a ball from his box and take a bite.\nThe moment I do, the flavors burst on my tongue and I groan with delight. These things are so delicious! I really do wish I could have them more often.\nDevouring the rest of the one I have, I go back for seconds, then for a third one but Taishiro lays a hand on my head, making me pause and look up at him.\n"Are you... sure you want to do that?"\nI pull back, feeling defensive all of sudden, "What do you mean?"\n"Hey, I'm happy to give you as many as you want," he backpedals, proffering the whole box toward me, "I just know how you are about the things you eat. I don't want you to feel bad about eating them later. Of course I wouldn't care about anything you chose to eat. Except maybe... soylent green or something."\nI take the box from him with a giggle at his cheesy joke. "I'll forgive myself this once. I deserve something to make me feel a little better in my time of illness."\nI lean back and lay the back of my hand over my forehead for added drama.\n"Yes, I'm sure you're suffering greatly wrapped up in blankets on the couch," he rolls his eyes at me.\nSurprising even myself, I finish off his box of takoyaki and half of my salad before I lean back with a full stomach, patting it with satisfaction.\n"That was worth it."\nAmusement sparks in Taishiro's eyes as he views me sprawled out the way I am. "I'm sure it was, princess. But you owe me now for eating my food."\n"I only ate the last few!" I stare at him, appalled, my wings flaring.\n"They were still my food," he shoots back.\n"What happened to 'what's mine is yours'?!"\n"That was for- well, not food."\nI laugh, snuggling up under his arm on the couch. "Well I'm sorry, big boy. The cookie jar is closed until I'm feeling better."\nHe doesn't seem phased, though. "And head rubs are...?"\nSmiling at him sweetly, I scooch back from him, "Fine. You deserve it, I'll admit."\nWith an excited grin, he lays his head down in my lap as I begin softly scraping my nails across his scalp. He practically purrs at the attention I'm giving him while we catch up on a few TV shows.\nAt around 3 am that night, I wake up in a cold sweat, my stomach aching miserably.\nI almost tear the sheets off the bed as I race to the bathroom just in time to projectile vomit all the contents of my stomach into the toilet, heaving over and over again until I think I might pass out from lack of oxygen.\n"Ai-chan?" Taishiro asks sleepily, shuffling his way into the bathroom, "Are you okay?"\nResting my hot, tear-stained cheek on the seat of the toilet, I nod and wipe away the disgusting river of snot pouring out of my nose.\n"I think I'm just... really sick. Sorry for waking you up."\n"It's okay, honey," he leans down to rub soothing circles at my back, "Is it all out now? Or do you need to stay in here a little longer?"\nThere are no "I told you so"s from him, despite the fact that he did try to stop me from eating those takoyaki and I'm positive that had something to do with why I'm in this position right now. My stomach wasn't ready for so much greasy food when I've been avoiding it for so long. I'm thankful that he's not throwing it in my face, though.\n"No I... think I'm okay now. I got it all out," I say, flushing the toilet.\n"Okay. Come on then. Let's get you back in bed."\nHe waits while I brush my teeth to get the taste of vomit out of my mouth, then leads me back to bed, where he's already fixed the sheets.\nWhen I lay back down, my stomach is settled again and I feel some relief as I drift back to sleep with Taishiro's hand rubbing my back gently.\nAs the sun dawns another day, I wake still feeling tired and immediately check my energy stores again only to find the same result, they're not even low. But I chalk it up to the fact that I woke up in the middle of the night to puke my guts up. That can be pretty exhausting.\nI don't have a fever this morning, though I'm still feeling sore, especially my chest, which bugs me. Why would my soreness be centralized there? From all the heaving I did maybe?\nI don't feel like I have to vomit but my stomach feels unsettled once more, enough that I'm not really interested in any food at all and when Taishiro starts making something for himself, it sends me back into the bedroom to get away from the smell.\n"Hey," he says, following me a few seconds later, "You still feeling sick? Is everything okay?"\n"Yeah," I reply lethargically, "I think it might be worse than a cold. Maybe the flu or something. I'm gonna stay home again."\n"Do you need me to stay home with you?" His eyes are filled with worry as he takes my hand in his.\n"No. I'm just a little sick. I'll be okay. You go to work." I assure him with a light squeeze.\nHe doesn't look reassured. "You'd tell me if you needed help, right? You'll call me if it gets bad?"\n"I'll call you," I tell him, lifting my phone from the nightstand.\n"Okay," he says kindly, brushing a loving hand across my cheek, "Get some rest. I'll bring you some water."\nI fall back to sleep before I see him bring it but when I wake again, I find it sitting on my nightstand.\nSomething has woken me up. What is it?\nI look around and notice my phone vibrating in bed beside me. That must've been it. A phone call.\nChecking it, I see my mother's number. Isn't that wild? Does she have some kind of sixth sense knowing her child is sick or something?\nI'm unsure if I want to answer it. I haven't spoken to her since the Christmas party and, even though my temper has cooled considerably, I feel uncomfortable with her being the one to reach out first.\nAt the same time, I'm not feeling great right now and some small part of me wants to hear her voice and feel that childlike sense of safety again.\n"Hello?" I pick up right before it goes to voicemail.\nThere's a pause. "Aiko? Are you okay?"\nJust like I'd hoped for, I feel immense relief upon hearing her voice. "I'm just sick. I think I might have the flu."\n"I could... bring you some soup if you want. If it'll make you feel better," she says awkwardly.\nI sigh, "No thank you. I don't think I could eat anything. My stomach's been really bugging me. I think it was something I ate last night and-"\n"That doesn't really sound like the flu... What else?"\nI have to pause to think about it. "I'm tired and my body hurts, especially my chest from throwing up. It sucks."\n"What's your address?" she says in a more serious tone this time, "I'm coming over."\n"No. No, don't please. I'm okay. I don't want to get you sick."\n"I'll be fine. Give me the address. I'm coming," her tone is stern, leaving no room for argument. It has me worried now.\n"Is something-" my voice shakes, "Is something wrong with me, mom?"\nShe would know. She's been a nurse for decades.\n"No. No, sweetie. I'm sorry to worry you. I just... want to take care of you, okay? Will you please give me the address?"\nDread has my stomach in knots that are tighter than usual due to my nausea as I give her my address and she assures me she'll be here within the hour. I don't believe her when she says it's nothing. She sounded truly panicked there for a second.\nIs something really wrong with me? Should I call Taishiro? Aizawa?\nI decide against it and wait for my mother to arrive, biting my thumbnail down to the quick.\nI'm scared. After being through so much, am I about to be taken out by some disease?\nI can only wait for her for now. I don't want to worry Taishiro needlessly. She'll know what to do. It'll be okay.\nSo I sit in my bed, squeezing my phone tightly in my fist as my stomach threatens to hurl up the nothing that's in it, and wait.\n

Chapter 28:\nI fling open the door the moment my mother knocks on it, panic eating away at me.\nBut when she steps through, slipping her shoes off, my mother seems completely unbothered as she scans the apartment, nodding appreciatively. She even takes the time to bend down and pet Bento as he comes striding up to greet a potential new attention-giver.\n"Your home is beautiful," she says calmly, "You two seem to do well for yourselves."\nI don't tell her that my last apartment was even bigger and fancier but part of that is because I'm kind of in the middle of a crisis here. Aren't I?\n"What the hell is wrong with me?" I snap at her, getting straight to the point. I don't have the energy to beat around the bush and follow all the rules of etiquette for hosting someone in your home.\n"I told you, Aiko. I don't think anything is wrong. Don't get worked up, you're not dying."\nAn enormous breath of relief bursts from me, as I lean against the wall for support.\n"Well, why did you sound so worried on the phone then? Why did you come here if it's not an emergency?" I question her relentlessly.\nI would also love to know why she called me at all in the first place but I'll wait on that for now. I need to know what's going on with me!\nSighing, she stands at full height again and finally looks me in the eye. "What are your symptoms again?"\nAs if I've just slipped back into my teenage self, I already know how to determine what is bothering me and rattle off my symptoms. "I'm tired, a little weak but my energy isn't low-"\n"Wait. Wait. Your energy?"\nOh fuck! She doesn't know! I've gotten so used to it being just a normal thing I discuss now that I forgot she never knew anything about my actual quirk!\n"It's about my quirk but it's a long story and it's complicated. I don't want to get into it right now. Can we just circle back to that later please? My quirk isn't the issue right now."\nShaking her head, she motions for me to continue. "Okay. Later."\n"Okay so: Tired, weak, nauseous, I had a fever yesterday but it's gone now. My chest is sore from puking but I think all of this nausea is just from what I ate last night. My stomach didn't agree with it."\n"What did you eat?"\nI hold up my hands signaling that none of this makes any sense, "Takoyaki? But I haven't eaten anything really greasy in a while and I figured that might've upset my stomach so..."\nShe rolls her eyes upward in thought as though that will help her better access her memory, "I mean... It could. I suppose. Why did you eat takoyaki if you don't usually eat it anymore?"\n"I was feeling sick and it smelled good and I really wanted some comfort food so I had some."\nMy mother nods in understanding and furrows her brow as she processes all of my information.\n"Okay. And when was your last period?"\nI blink at her, caught off guard by this question seemingly out of nowhere but... maybe she's onto something? It could be that I'm getting my period again.\n"I don't usually get a period. I have birth control that works all the time so I-"\nHer face blanches, "Oh god, please don't tell me you have an IUD."\n"No. It's just a little thing that goes under my skin," I show her the barely noticeable bump where the implant lies in my arm. "They're way less invasive than IUDs but it does hurt like a bitch to get put in."\nShe breathes a sigh of relief, which has me really confused now as she finally lifts a small shopping bag she's been carrying this whole time.\n"Take this."\nI take the bag from her, expecting medicine and some form of relief for my pain but when I reach in, I pull out a small rectangular box.\nI look at it, baffled, then shove it back in the bag and hold it back out to her.\n"I'm not," I snap with a very sharp tongue.\nBut her eyes soften toward me and she just pushes it back, "If you're not, then you won't have a problem taking a test, right?"\nI shake my head in disbelief as freezing, ice-like dread pools in my stomach. "I'm- I'm not. I'm not fucking pregnant, mom! It's impossible. The- The birth control is the best there is. That's why I have it! I'm not fucking pregnant! So just..."\nThere's a deep understanding in her scarlet eyes as she takes the box from the small bag and places it directly into my hand, curling my fingers around it.\n"You're probably right," she says kindly, "It's probably just a string of coincidences and you'll be feeling better in a couple days. Just take the test so we can put it out of our minds alright?"\nIt feels like every part of me is quaking. I don't want to take that test. I don't want to even entertain the idea. Why does she not get it?\nHer gaze is relentless. I know I won't win this argument.\nMy shoulders sag as I pull the box from her, turning away toward the bathroom.\n--\nPregnancy tests don't take as long for a result as one would think.\nYou pee on the little stick thing and you can actually see as the liquid seeps into the window that will give you a result. If you just watch it, you'll get your results in sometimes under a minute if the hormones are strong enough. Other times it can take a little longer for it to show positive.\nIn the past, I've had to take these tests during physicals or when I wanted birth control. Back then, I would watch it impatiently, just wanting it to be over with.\nNow though, I don't sit and watch. I set the test down on the sink and walk away, praying that when I return, there will only be two empty lines, no plus.\nInstead, I go back out to my mother who sits waiting in the living room.\n"I'll give it a few minutes," I tell her when she looks my way, "In the meantime, tell me why you're here. Why did you call me? Before all this happened."\nI settle myself on the couch, cozying up under a blanket and holding my anxiously twisting stomach.\nMy mother twists her hands in each other. "I haven't heard from you and I know you were upset with me before for not trying to get ahold of you after we fought so... I thought I could reach out now."\nMy lips press together in thought. She is right that I called her out on that. Maybe it's for the best that she reached out after all. I don't know when I would've ever gotten around to it.\n"Are you going to apologize for throwing me out?" I go straight for the jugular. Maybe that's unfair but I need her to admit she did something awful to me before we act like things are okay between us.\n"I'm willing to apologize, Aiko. I shouldn't have moved your things without talking to you first, I'll admit that. But I won't say I was throwing you out. I loved you. I still love you." Now she presses both of her fisted hands into her lap.\nI can't look at her face right now. I know it's going to be glassy eyed and emotional and I'm having a hard enough time keeping my own shit together as it is.\nIt is so hard to accept the things she's saying; that she didn't maliciously throw me out; that she's loved me all along. The thought that we've lost so much time together over a misunderstanding and stubbornness... It's enraging. I'm livid. But I don't know who to be angry at. I just am. We'll never get that time back.\nMy jaw clenches. "Fine. I'm sorry for the things I said too. Let's just... try to move on from this. I don't know how. I don't know what to do."\nThe warmth comes back into her voice when she says, "For now, let me help you with this and then we'll see how things go from there, okay? We should be able to check the test now."\nFear that I'd momentarily forgotten creeps back into my heart as I face having to go back into that bathroom and look at that test.\nWhy the hell am I so scared? It's gonna be negative!\nBut what if it's positive? Says that little asshole voice who asks you asshole questions you don't want to think about. And... will you really be happy if it's negative?\nYes! Yes I'll be fucking happy if it's negative! What kind of-\nI've reached the bathroom. I left the light on and I'm regretting even that.\nMy stomach feels like it's in a vice grip and my breaths are coming in shallow little bursts.\nIt's time. I can't delay this any longer. I'll just look at it, it'll be negative and I'll get on with my life. That's what'll happen... That's...\nI lift the test and I'm fairly certain I'm not breathing at all now.\nThere's the empty control line and... and... no. No that's not-\nI check the box and the test three more times to make sure I'm reading it right despite the fact that reading it is as simple as a plus or a minus.\nIt's a plus. It's a positive. It's not even faded. It's not even possible to hope that something went wrong. It's a full on pink positive.\n"Oh god. Help," I whisper. I don't even know who I'm asking. Just someone; anyone.\nWhen I turn, my mother is in the doorway and she can already see my panic.\n"I can't! I can't! This is impossible! I have the best birth control! This can't- I can't-"\nShe steps forward, taking the test from me and setting it aside before taking my hand in her own. "It's okay. Just take deep breaths for now."\nAnd that's the moment I burst into tears.\nAn hour later, I'm sitting on the couch, sipping on a small glass of water as my mother fixes me an extremely light meal that she says shouldn't make my stomach upset. I don't want to think about eating. I don't want to think about anything.\nI'm trying to stare off into the distance and forget what existing is like when my mother comes back with some toast and fruit.\nI look at her with tired eyes. "This birth control was supposed to be 99.999% effective. Practically impossible to get pregnant. I don't understand."\n"Well... I guess your guy's sperm is... really persistent."\n"Mom!" Some life comes back into me at her words and my cheeks burn. "Oh my god. Don't talk about my boyfriend's sperm! Fuck's sake..."\nI know she's a nurse and she's not afraid to talk about human bodies but it's just not right when it's my and Taishiro's bodies.\nShe snorts, patting me on the knee. "Alright, sorry. Well we need to get you an appointment with a doctor to confirm it and make sure everything is going well at least."\n"Yeah," I reply solemnly, "I know."\n"I can probably get you seen today. Do you want me to go with you?"\nShe looks hopeful, like this could be something we can finally bond over but I just can't see it that way. For me, this feels like a death sentence. I'm terrified. I woke up this morning thinking I was just sick and now I've come to find I'm gonna be a mom? How can I bond over this with her?\n"I think... I'd prefer to just do it alone."\nThe way her face falls has me feeling a little guilty at my decision but it doesn't change it. I wish I could lean on her and share this moment with her but I'm just not ready to dive in head first.\n"Well, that's okay," she says wanly, "I'm sure you want some time on your own to figure everything out anyway."\nWith that, she stands and starts gathering her things, getting ready to leave.\n"Mom," I call out when she's headed toward the door. She turns to look back at me. "Thanks... For coming today and for helping me."\nSome tension leaves her shoulders and she smiles. "It's not a problem, sweetheart. Let me know if you need anything, okay?"\nI nod. "Okay."\nThen she sweeps out the door as easily as she came in.\n--\nI walk out of the doctor's office a few hours later with a sore arm from my birth control being removed, a bottle of prenatal vitamins, and a length of printed out stills from my sonogram.\nI'm feeling so overwhelmed right now, it almost feels like a dream. Except my stomach is still bothering me.\nIt turns out it wasn't my chest that was sore. It was specifically my boobs. Apparently they get more sensitive when you're pregnant. So that's fun.\nDespite my nausea still messing with my stomach, it doesn't bother me as much as it had. I guess knowing why you feel the need to hurl your guts up helps keep you sane about it.\nMaking my way back to our apartment, I settle on the couch and try to figure out when and how I'm going to tell Taishiro.\nI don't immediately tell him the moment he walks in, like I had initially planned. He's dirty and tired from a rough day at work and I just want to help him relax after having to deal with a villain.\n"You feeling any better?" He asks, noticing the way I pick at my dinner. It was difficult enough just to sit down at the table.\n"A little," I tell him. Not a complete lie.\n"Do you think you'll need to stay home again tomorrow?"\nMy chopsticks poke at the rice in my bowl for a few more seconds before I say, "No. I think I might be okay to come tomorrow... If you want me to."\n"Of course!" He says, brightening.\nHis smile pulls at my heartstrings which only makes my news I have to tell harder. I don't fully know how he'll react. I assume he'll be happy, possibly even excited. But he also knows how I feel about having kids. He'll know how difficult this is for me. I can't stand to see the disappointment in his eyes the hurt when he sees I'm not as excited.\n"Tai... I need to tell you something," I speak softly, my eyes focusing on my chopsticks as I open and close them.\n"Sure," he says warmly, already noticing that something is bothering me, "You can tell me anything."\nA cold, deep fear bubbles up from my stomach and I have to hold my breath a few seconds just to keep my nausea at bay. My chest aches like my heart's already breaking. Will this be the thing that ends us? Will he resent me for how I feel about this pregnancy? Will I resent him? Why did this have to happen? I'm not ready for this to happen! Can't we live in our happy little bubble just a little while longer?\nI can't give it all up yet. "I- I'm thinking about leaving the modeling business."\nThis is a half-truth. Leaving would be the result of my being pregnant. Obviously there won't be anymore lingerie shoots for me after I start showing. Not unless I'm in maternity undies.\nHis eyes widen, surprised by this turn of events. "Are- Are you sure?"\nI nod, eyeing him as I gauge his reaction. I was right to believe he wouldn't be upset about this. He's probably happy to get me as far away from this trafficking ring as possible.\n"If that's what you want I'm happy for you, baby. I can't wait to see what you'll do next," he grins, taking my hand in his, his thumb caressing the back.\nI smile wanly at him, still feeling like my heart is breaking.\nI couldn't do it. I couldn't tell him the truth because of my own selfishness and wanting to live in this dream a little bit longer.\nBut I will have to eventually. He'll figure it out sooner or later and it's more likely to be sooner. He's too observant to be oblivious for long.\n--\nIt's been nearly a week now since I found out I'm pregnant and I still haven't been able to tell Taishiro. Every time I think I've summoned the courage to, my fear and doubts hold me back. I know that when I do tell him, all of this will become truly real. Things will change. Diapers will be bought, baby clothes, a crib. Everything will transform and I will really be having this baby.\nI've been staring at myself in the mirror, running delicate fingers over my still-flat belly after my shoot today. I'm still in the lingerie I wore and it feels so strange to me that I'm still wearing something like this when I'm about to be a mom. Do moms still wear sexy things?\nA knock comes at the door and before I'm even able to answer, Tomoyo comes bustling through, annoyance written all over her features.\n"What's going on with you, Aiko?" She asks brusquely, "You've been in here for fifteen minutes. Why are you all doom and gloom today? Did your boyfriend break up with you or something?"\nI roll my eyes at her as I start pulling my outfit off, unphased by her presence.\n"No. It's more complicated than that."\n"Then what?" She's looking really irritated now.\nIt occurs to me that she should probably know about this. I won't be needing her services soon after all and she's always been there for me. She was the only one there for a long while. Maybe she can make me feel a little bit better or tell me how I can inform Taishiro.\n"Promise you won't lose your shit."\n"Well that really doesn't give me confidence. What happened?" She crosses her arms as I pull my dress over my head.\n"I'm... I'm pregnant," I tell her, my shoulders slumping, "I haven't told Taishiro yet. I'm kinda freaking out."\nHer look of displeasure turns to out and out dismay and now I'm beginning to wonder if I haven't made a huge mistake telling her.\n"You're... pregnant?" she asks in disbelief, "How far?"\n"Not far. They said about eight weeks," I answer, nerves roiling my stomach along with its usual nausea.\nTomoyo breathes a sigh of relief. "Oh thank god. You're usually careful about these things, Aiko. I don't know how you let this happen. It's fine, though. We still have plenty of time. You can get rid of it. I can even make an appointment today."\nShe pulls out her phone like she's just scheduling another photoshoot but my mind's gone far far away. The longer she talked, the further I've receded into myself. The colder my blood has become.\nGet rid of... it?\nI could do that. I don't know why I forgot that was even an option. It never feels like an option until you're put in a situation like this.\nI never dared to hope for kids. I love kids but I couldn't I can't let them have a quirk like mine. I couldn't let them suffer like I have. I won't be my father.\nBut then I finally let myself imagine Taishiro's face when I tell him; the pure joy and delight. I see how he is with his pupils; how much he enjoys teaching and caring for them. I imagine the look in his eyes holding our baby in his arms and it breaks my heart into dust. Because, I realize, I really do want that.\nIf I could be allowed to ignore for just one second the fact that I'm terrified of giving my children such a destructive quirk, I'd be happy; ecstatic even, like a dream come true.\nI want this, I realize suddenly. I really do want this. And, like a light switch, my anxiety turns to giddiness. I want this! I want our baby!\n"No," I say, grabbing the phone out of her hand and Tomoyo gives me an affronted look.\n"'No' what? What do you mean 'no'? You don't want kids. I know that much about you, Aiko," she glares at me, snatching her phone back. But she doesn't seem to be going through the contacts any longer.\n"I didn't. I never did. But with Taishiro... We would love them. We would teach them. We could help them stay safe." The idea seems more and more plausible, the more I think about it. I just need to be forthright with them from the start. I just need to tell them how to stay safe and learn to control it when they're old enough.\nTomoyo rests her forehead in her hand, rubbing at her temples with her thumb and forefingers.\n"You want to keep it. You want to ruin your career..."\n"Tomoyo," I say with honesty in my eyes, facing something I've had a hard time facing up until this point, "I've had a career. It's almost over for me as a model. Maybe I could squeeze a bit more out of it for pregnancy shoots but that's only if I carry well." I shake my head, "My best modeling years are behind me now. I'm okay with that. I have more to offer than just a pretty face. I think it's time for something new for me."\nI can actually see the muscles in her jaw tightening. It's no surprise to me that she's furious. She probably thought we had at least a few more years together.\n"You're not just a pretty face, Aiko. You're an unrivaled face. You could go on modeling into your fifties if you kept your skincare routine up and take care of your body," she snaps.\nInto my fifties? She really thinks that? I never even considered that might be an option. Sure, I'd have to switch from lingerie eventually, to something more conservative, but to think that I could be that big of a star...\n"You can't do that if you're going to ruin your body with this. It'll never be the same after!"\nShe falls quiet and stews in her thoughts for a moment.\nShe's truly livid. I knew she wouldn't take this well. But I also thought she'd want me to be happy at some point. She knows how much I love Taishiro.\n"You're going to have to choose, Aiko," Tomoyo finally says again, her anger sharpening her voice like a blade, "Do you want what's probably a lifelong career in the modeling business? Or do you just want to be average, having a baby with this oaf of a man who couldn't even protect you once?"\n"I want the family," I say without hesitation. I don't even have to think about it, "I want our baby. I want Taishiro."\nThe startled look on her face at my immediate response is one for the record books. I'm sure she thought I'd at least think it over. She thought I'd probably choose modeling. I always have before. But, after all these years we've been together, has she not seen that the thing I crave most in my life is a family?\nShe seems speechless.\n"You are such a shit. Ungrateful for everything I've done for you. You're throwing away your livelihood for a man? What's become of you?"\n"I already told you, I've been prepared to retire soon anyway. You have other clients! I'm not throwing anything away! I don't want to be a model forever, Tomoyo! I hate this industry! I want something more!"\nTomoyo's eyes are flashing with danger in a way I never thought they could. It's enough to have me wondering if I might need to leave now or prepare to defend myself. Why is she so furious?\n"I knew letting this thing with him go on was gonna bite me in the ass. You are so stupid about this idiotic-"\n"Don't talk about him like that. I already warned you not to do that," I snarl at her, anger beginning to pulse through my veins.\n"He's not good enough for you, Aiko! Look at you! Look at him! I don't care if he's got a muscled form, that's only when he's weak and even more useless! And now you're gonna let him ruin your body and your career so you can have more fat little babies like him!"\nI see red momentarily as claws slide from my fingers. I'd thought we'd gotten past all this. I thought she supported me and cared about me! Why did she even try to save me? Because she cared about me? Or because she cared about her asset?\nI have to squeeze my fists tight, claws cutting into my palms as my tail snaps at the ground.\n"You're fired," I practically growl.\nShock registers on her face like I just slapped her. She's lucky I didn't. Only my months of training has made me disciplined enough to pull back from being so aggressive after the things she just said.\n"What? Are you insane? I've been your manager for 10 years! You can't just fire me! Look what he's made you into!" She shoots back, pointing at me.\n"What he's made me into? He hasn't made me into anything! He's never told me I have to be any certain way!"\n"He's the reason you think you can fire me!"\nMy lips curl back from my teeth, "I am firing you but he's not the reason. You're the reason! He's done nothing but support me even after you've bombarded him with insults time and time again! He never insisted I get rid of you because he knew I cared about you! But you're just my manager, Tomoyo. You set my schedule and connect me with jobs. You have no say in my relationships!"\n"Don't I?" She snaps back, "I've gotten you to where you are in this business. I've pushed you and made sure you were safe from the time you started here. I kept you from being held back by anyone or anything! I thought this guy might be bad news but I also never thought you'd actually fuck him!"\nI think I might've lost the ability to breathe with the way she's hurling each tidbit of information my way. I don't even know what to focus on.\nBut one thing she said catches in my mind. "I kept you from being held back by anyone or anything."\n"What the fuck does that mean? 'You kept me from being held back'? Held back by who?"\n"Oh I don't know, maybe all the people you have sex with and discard," she rolls her eyes as she adjusts her glasses.\nBut she's fidgeting. She's not as confident in that answer as she'd like me to think she is.\n"No," I shake my head slowly, "That's not what you meant."\nHer stance is even more unsteady as I take a step toward her. She's regretting her words now and I can practically scent her fear on the air.\n"You did it, didn't you? Those listings you sent weren't an accident, were they?" My eyes are wide with fury as I take another step toward her, feeling the leash on my rage slip a notch.\n"Aiko, you're being completely delusional now. You need to stop and-"\n"You don't tell me what I need to do!" I roar at her, "You tell me now! Did you make my mom think that I didn't want to live with her?!"\nShe doesn't have to say anything. Just the sliding of her expression from angry to complete apathy is all I need to see.\nThat doesn't keep her from speaking, though. "Your mother was going to be the end of your career. I knew you'd never actually emancipate yourself from her. I got you away from her so she wouldn't hold you back."\n"You let me believe that she kicked me out all this time," I seethe.\n"She was bad for you, just like Fat Gum-"\n"They're bad for you," I correct her with a flare of my wings, "The only one bad for me here is you. I can't believe I didn't see it before now. You've been like a cancer on my life and I let you make me into a horrible person!"\nA spark of her own rage lights her eyes as she just stares me down in response.\nI want to hurt her so badly it's like I can hear it calling out to me as my heartbeat roars in my ears. She's not even a little bit regretful.\nBut I can't just choke the bitch out like I wish I could. Taishiro and Aizawa have been working with me tirelessly. I owe them more than the loss of my control when I'm angry. Even when that anger is over just how much she's stolen from me.\nMy claws recede and I breathe a calming sigh as I turn away from her.\n"I'm leaving," I tell her with a controlled voice, "You are fired. I'm done with the modeling industry. I'm done with all of this. Don't try to contact me. I never want to see your face again."\n"Aiko!" She grabs me viciously before I can reach for the door. "If you go now and leave all of this if you insist on keeping that baby you are not going to like the end result."\nI can't tell if that's a threat or a warning. But I am so tired of her thinking she knows what's best for me.\nI snatch my hand away from her, shoving her back. "Never. Touch. Me. Again."\nWith that I fling the door open to find a small group of people looking startled and trying to seem like they're busy. They obviously heard the loudest parts of that altercation.\nI don't have time to care about that right now, though.\nSlamming the door in Tomoyo's face, I head straight for the exit while everyone I pass just watches me with nervous eyes.\nThere's so much on my mind right now. I need to put in my resignation at the agency and discuss ending my contracts with the designers. I need to call my mom and tell her what really happened between us ten years ago.\nBut right now, before I do anything else, I need to go tell Taishiro that we're having a baby.\nI take long, fast-paced steps as I wind my way through the streets, heading straight for the agency without pause. I know now, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that I can tell him. There is no fear left in me any longer. I know exactly what I want and I can hardly wait to see the look on his face when I tell him.\n"Aiko," a familiar voice has me stopping in my tracks.\nOf all the times he could've bothered me...\nThere's no longer any pain squeezing my heart like it did last time as I turn to face Kenji, the man who is essentially my ex, sitting on his own outside a cafe.\n"Kenji," I say warily, "What do you want?"\nHe puts his hands up in a conciliatory manner. "Hey, I don't want to fight. I just saw you passing and I... I wanted to talk."\nI eye him with heavy suspicion, "About what? Calling me names again?"\n"No! I was wrong to do that. I- Will you come sit?" He motions to the other chair at his table. "I promise I won't behave like last time."\nI sigh, weighing my options. I really need to get to Taishiro right now. I need him to know.\nBut Kenji's eyes are pleading. Will it hurt to hear him out? I know I shouldn't give him any more chances to make up for how he treated me but my heart feels so light right now, I could give him this one last chance.\nSitting in the chair opposing his, I tap my fingernails idly on the table to wait for his explanation.\n"Thank you," he says nervously, running slender fingers through his hair, "I just... I saw you on the news a few months back. I saw what happened to you getting kidnapped and everything and I realized, when it was put into perspective, what an asshole I've been."\nHe looks up at me and I nod once, willing him to go on.\n"I was afraid for you and I was ashamed that you might die with my last words to you being something awful. I hated the thought of you never knowing how I really felt about you."\nSomething in my chest constricts my breathing and my fingers stop tapping. "What do you mean?"\nHis eyes are regretful when he speaks again, "I cared about you a lot when we were together. I... even thought I might love you at some point." He looks away from me, to his clenching hands at the table. "But I overreacted about your quirk. I was scared. I was dumb. I should've never said you were a monster though."\nNow there is definitely some sting to that. But I remain quiet. He seems like he still has more to say.\n"And I'd meant to come back and tell you all that. I tried to call you so we could meet up at some point but you were at a shoot and your manager picked up and she told me you'd meet up with me at some bar."\nWhat? My brows scrunch together at this news. She never told me...\nAnger pulses through my veins at the realization. My mother wasn't the only one manipulated by Tomoyo it seems. Just how many people has she pushed away from me without me even knowing?\n"And I'm sure you can remember what happened after that. I could tell she'd played me by the look of surprise on your face but I was just so... so pissed off and jealous and I wasn't able to handle what you were doing. I took it out on you and I'm sorry. I wasn't able to put it all to the side until I was terrified I'd never see you again."\nI am furious learning about Tomoyo's two-faced actions yet again but at least this time she might've done me a favor. Though I doubt she saw it as anything but doing herself a favor. Kenji was not right for me. I told Taishiro before that he would've shown his true colors eventually and I still believe that.\n"I'm... not exactly sure what to say to that. That's a lot to take in," I say uncomfortably, "I suppose I should apologize for my manager's actions. You're not the only one she's manipulated like that to keep you from me. I just fired her, though, so I'm not sure what more I can do."\nKenji fidgets in his chair, playing with the straw in his iced coffee.\n"Well, I was sorta hoping..." he trails off and his face starts to redden. I think I might know what comes next. "I was hoping you'd want to give me another chance. I know I was an asshole. I was wrong and I'm sorry."\nMy lips press together in a thin line. He can't actually believe I'd want to be with him again after all he put me through? And even if I might've ever considered it, he can't begin to compare to Taishiro. No one can.\n"I'm sorry," I say as gracefully as possible, "I'm... seeing someone. It's actually pretty serious."\n"But you... you're really seeing someone?" He pauses for a moment, his eyes widening, "That guy! That guy from before! He really- You really- I can't believe it!"\nI give him a flat look of disdain, already seeing where this is going.\nWhen he sees my look, though, he shut his mouth. "Sorry. I mean... I never would've pegged him as-"\n"Seriously?"\n"Right. Sorry. I- I didn't really expect you'd say yes anyway... but I wanted to try. I couldn't just let you go without at least trying." His face becomes more somber then, "But I missed my chance and that's my fault. I'm glad you found someone to make you happy. I won't get in your way."\nRelief settles my irritation and I release a small breath. "Thank you. And thank you for telling me everything else too. I'm glad to at least have some closure on that."\nHe nods in agreement.\nBut I need to get going. I need to go see Taishiro! I'm glad I stopped and allowed Kenji to say his piece, though. He's made me even more sure of every decision I've made so far today.\n--\nThere's a voice pulling me toward consciousness...\nSomeone's shaking me pretty hard I might add. Is that necessary?\nMy eyes slit open as I return to the waking world, my mind feeling extremely muddled.\nI try to focus on the voice of the person who's shaking me so roughly awake. It's Taishiro.\n"Aiko," he's saying insistently, "Aiko, wake up."\n"Tai..." I sigh, smiling dreamily.\nAs his face finally comes into focus, my dreamlike state falls away and I startle, my mind suddenly shocking fully awake.\nI've never seen this stark expression on Taishiro's face before. Not even when he watched me being torn away from him and shooting up into the sky. He was terrified then. But this expression... I can hardly even describe it but it fills me with abject dread.\n"Tai?" I ask cautiously, "What's wrong? What happened?"\n"'What happened?'" he parrots back to me in a disturbingly hollow voice, "You tell me what happened."\nI blink once. Does he know about the pregnancy? Did someone tell him? And if they did, why is he reacting this way? Why does he look so... so devastated?\nThen, I finally register my surroundings. Where the fuck am I? I'm... in a hotel room.\nAs I sit up, pink sheets fall from my naked body and I gasp, clutching them to my chest once more.\n"What... What's going on?" I ask him shakily, feeling that lightless dread sink into me deeper and deeper.\n"Where the fuck am I?" I hear a man's voice ask blearily.\nIt's not Taishiro's.\nI whirl from my position to find Kenji beside me in the same bed as me naked the same as I am.\nPanic rises in me. What is going on? What happened?!\nI search my mind frantically but I don't I can't remember! The last thing I remember, I was having a conversation with Kenji at the small cafe. I'd rejected him...\n"What did you do to me?!" I shriek at him, my wings flaring dangerously.\nBut he has a dazed expression that suddenly becomes fearful when he takes in our situation. Me sitting up at his side; Taishiro looming over us both.\n"I-I didn't. I-I don't remember! How? How are we here? What-"\n"Get. Out." Taishiro's voice comes, dark and low. He's staring pointedly at Kenji with the most animalistic look in his eye. There's rage there that promises violence if his words are not heeded.\nKenji doesn't hesitate. He doesn't ask any questions whatsoever even though he's clearly as baffled as I am. He just pulls on the pants he'd been wearing at the cafe and races out the door as quickly as he can, not sparing even a look over his shoulder.\nDid he do something to me? Was he lying when he said he accepted my answer? I don't feel any pain, though. Nothing hurts at all. He doesn't have a quirk that could bend me to his will. It's something useless like making his hair grow at will. Could he have drugged me? No. I didn't drink anything. ...right? I don't remember! I don't know! Did I sleep with him?! Of my own free will?! That can't be! I want to look under the sheets and touch to make sure but Taishiro's attention turns back to me now and nausea grips my stomach.\n"Tai," I whisper desperately as he sits in a chair next to the bed where I'm still clutching the sheets to my chest.\nI shouldn't be afraid to let him see me. He knows my body as well I as I do. But I am afraid. Shame burrows itself deep within my chest at him having found me like this.\n"You didn't come home," he says softly, his voice flat, "I was terrified. I thought you'd been kidnapped again. I called everyone. Tomoyo said you'd left the shoot hours ago. She'd said you fired her and for me to lose her number. She said you were keeping a secret from me."\nMy heart stops. She didn't tell him.\n"Was this it? This is what you were keeping secret? You're seeing this guy again?"\n"No! No! NO!" I cry, hot tears of rage and pain pouring from my eyes at the realization that she's winning again, "I would never! She- She did this somehow! She's been lying to me from the start! She told my mom I didn't want to live with her! She manipulated Kenji into confronting me about sleeping around and-"\nTaishiro shakes his head. "I went to a cafe you'd been spotted at. The girl who works there said you'd been sitting with a man there and you both left. Together. Under no duress. She said you were both smiling."\nIt's my turn to shake my head. "No, I don't- I don't remember that. That's not true!"\n"Other witnesses say the same thing," he corrects me, "I was able to track your phone here. I didn't want to believe it when I saw it was a love hotel but I... I..."\nHis lips turn down as he grits his teeth in a grimace that tears a hole right through my chest. A barely controlled sob wracks his body and he clutches at his chest, right over where his heart should be as though it physically pains him.\n"Why?" he rasps out, "Why was I not enough for you?"\nI can hardly breathe with how excruciating my own chest has become. I can't even begin to figure out how to answer that question. He's more than just "enough" for me. He's my whole world. How does he not know that?\n"You are," I say weakly, my voice cracking, "Tai..."\nHis eyes squeeze shut as he lays his forehead in his palm. "I just don't understand. I loved you so... so much. I thought that this was... I thought you were... like my soul mate."\nIt's a gut punch. He's landing one blow after the other on my heart. How many times have I felt such similar feelings? I didn't even believe in soul mates before I met him but... the way everything about him makes everything about me sing... there are no other words for it.\n"Taishiro, I don't... I don't know what happened," I squeak out, "I don't remember-"\n"So you got drunk with him and did this?"\n"No!" I snap, almost vicious with defensiveness, "I would never get drunk!"\nHe gives me a sardonic look, "I've seen you drunk."\n"No, I mean now! I mean-"\nI stop, realizing what I was about to say. Is this the way I want to tell him? I can't imagine it. I wanted to tell him and see his face light up with excitement and pure joy. If I told him now, I can only see that causing him more pain. I don't want to tell him with that dead look in his eyes. I don't want to remember the announcement this way.\n"I mean I just... don't want to drink anymore. It makes it harder to control my quirk."\nThe lie came up so easily, it kinda scares me.\n"I don't know what to believe anymore, Aiko. I'm so lost..."\n"Taishiro, please," I lay a quivering hand on his shoulder but instead of melting into my touch, he freezes as though touched by something horrible, hoping it might go away if he's still for long enough.\nI don't think he would ever smack my hand away but I wish he had rather than just freezing like I'm some kind of monster.\nI pull my hand back again and he relaxes somewhat, his breaths becoming more ragged as he continues clutching at his chest and weeping silently into his palm.\n"I don't know how to do this," he wheezes out, his voice tight with despair, "I don't want this. Why? Why?"\nHe's speaking almost nonsensically but I understand it. I understand that pure agony in his eyes as he finally looks up at me. It's exactly the way I'm feeling.\n"I- I don't know! I don't understand!" I sob out, "I'm sorry, Taishiro! I don't know what to do!"\nHe stands abruptly, startling me. "I can't be here anymore. I can't look at you."\nIt feels like the wind's been knocked out of me. He can't look at me?\nI hastily try to dress myself as he takes steps toward the door, just shoving my dress down over myself, not bothering with any undergarments.\n"Wait! Wait,Taishiro!"\nHe pauses next to the door, looking back at me once more, though it seems to cause him a great deal of pain. "Please just stay here tonight. Don't follow me right now. I can't-"\nHe takes a deep, rattling breath and blows it out.\n"Just... come by tomorrow and maybe I'll have figured something out by then."\n"Figured what out?" I ask, stepping toward him.\nHe shakes his head, "I don't know. It's all just too much right now. I don't want to see you right now. I'm so lost."\nHe says it again. I don't think he knows a better way to describe how he's feeling.\n"But," I step closer still, "I don't want to stay here. Please, Taishiro. Let's just go home together. We can figure this out."\nI reach out to him, wrapping my hands around his arm and he freezes like just he had before.\n"Please," I beg him, tears still streaming down my cheeks, "Please don't just leave. Please just take me with you."\n"Aiko," he croaks out, "I can't do this right now. I can't- I can't even look at you without feeling sick. I just can't."\nNow I feel sick. If he'd slapped me in the face it would've hurt less. I can't even respond to that.\nHe tries to pull from my grasp but I just hang on tighter, gripping his jacket when his arm slips from my hands.\n"No, Taishiro!" I plead in a pathetic cry, "Please! Please! I'm sorry! Please don't leave me!"\nHis teeth are gritted and I can see his cheeks are wet and blotched from his own tears. I promised him I'd never hurt him again. I told him nothing else would pull us apart again. What have I done? What have I fucking done?!\n"Don't do this, Aiko," he begs me in return, his voice strained like I've never heard it before.\nI want to tell him in this instant. I want to tell him so fucking badly. He'll stay then.\nBut at what cost? I'd just be manipulating him into staying. This is not how I want him to find out! We're supposed to be a family!\nHis hand gently grasps mine, pulling it from his jacket.\n"I'll see you tomorrow."\n"Taishiro," I whimper, falling to the floor in the most servile position I can be in, "Please."\nBut he doesn't answer. He doesn't stay. He walks out the door and leaves me sobbing on the ground.\n

Chapter 29:\nI don't sleep. I stay up for the rest of the night replaying everything that's happened over and over in my head, trying to force the memories to come back. But they're just gone. Why can't I remember what happened?!\nThere's nothing in the bed that would indicate anyone had sex. There's nothing on my body that would suggest it either but that doesn't prove anything beyond a shadow of a doubt.\nI do my best to clean myself up and, when the sun comes up, I head out to the doctor I went to for my pregnancy confirmation.\n"I don't see any tearing or inflammation," she tells me, pulling the sheet back over me, "You don't seem to be injured."\nI feel relieved upon hearing that. But it's also discomforting in a different way. If I wasn't forced, did I do something willingly and somehow forget?\n"Are you... able to tell if I've had any kind of sex in the past 24 hours?" I ask hesitantly.\n"No, it's not that simple." She meets my eyes, a grave look to them. "Do you believe you might've been assaulted? Do you need to file a report?"\nI think back on Kenji's bewildered and terrified face. He woke up the same exact way I did. I don't know what happened for sure but I do believe that he is just as much a victim as I am.\nI shake my head. "No I'm just... paranoid I guess. I don't want to hurt my baby."\nShe smiles warmly, understanding lighting her eyes now. "That's alright. Even rough sex isn't going to hurt them. Try to hold off on some extreme S&M stuff but you won't hurt them by having sex, okay?"\nA tiny smile comes to my lips at that, despite how much pain it causes me. Taishiro would be glad to hear that... if he'll ever want me again.\nI need more answers than this, though. Kenji didn't get the chance to say his piece before he was ousted from the room last night. Maybe he'll have remembered something by now.\nHoping he still works at the same place he did when I knew him, I travel to the high-reaching building and make my way in to pay him a visit.\n--\n"I'm sorry, Aiko," he says with genuine remorse as he rests his head in his hands at his desk. We're seated in his office, the door shut. "I'm sorry for what happened to you. I really don't know how we got there. I remember we were talking at the cafe and the next thing I know, I'm waking up naked in that hotel room. I was scared shitless. I though that dude might murder me. I know I would've felt the same way if I were him."\nI look down at my own hands, curling in my lap. "If it makes you feel any better, I went to see a doctor and she said I'm not hurt. I wasn't forced into anything."\nHe takes a heavy breath, his shoulders slumping. "It does. Thank you. I wish I could tell you something that'll help you in return."\n"You did," I say solemnly, "You confirmed that I'm not alone in this at least. I don't know what I can do to convince Taishiro, though."\n"Just tell him the truth," Kenji provides, "Tell him everything you can remember and why you sat down with me. I would help you and tell him myself but I really don't think he'd want to see me."\nA pain that had begun coiling around my heart last night constricts a little more. I would never consider Taishiro an unreasonable person. I would always assume he'd listen to someone who was approaching him calmly. But now...\n"I can't look at you without feeling sick."\nI can't blame him for being so upset. If I'd found him this way, I would've reacted far less reasonably. I would've tried to rip the girl's heart out and his after, especially if the only answer he could give me is "I don't know. I don't remember." It sounds like a joke of an excuse.\nLeaving Kenji's office building, I nearly fall asleep taking the train to Taishiro's agency. It's been a while since I slept and baby seems to be sapping my energy more than usual.\n...shit. My energy. It's not low right now but I'll probably need more within a couple weeks. Hopefully I'll be able to make Taishiro understand by then. Maybe I'll have gotten my memories back.\nWhen I enter the agency, it's quiet. Maki sits behind her desk but no one else seems to be here.\n"Is Fat up in his office?" I ask, coming to stand in front of her desk.\nShe looks up at me with a bewildered expression. I realize she probably expects I should know where my own boyfriend is. We're together every day.\nSuspicion grows in her eyes as she tells me, "He said he had a meeting of some kind when he left. He called a little while ago to say he wasn't feeling well and that he was going home, though."\nShame spikes within me. She had no clue what happened between us last night. But now she knows something did. Or I would know where he was at this moment.\n"Oh," I say quickly, turning away to head back out the door, "Okay, thanks."\n"Are you guys having a fight?" She asks with curiosity, "I know it's not my business but, you know, I'm nosey."\nThe pain around my heart constricts further and I turn to her, carefully schooling my face.\n"I... don't know."\nThere's sympathy in her eyes when she smiles at me. "Don't worry. This won't last. I've worked for Fat Gum for years. He's been happy here working with these kids and saving people. But I've never seen him quite as happy as he is with you. It's a happiness few people find. You two will make it."\nHer words shred me as though I'm being torn into tiny pieces. She was trying to comfort me but now I only feel worse. I know what I stand to lose if we can't work this out.\n"I hope so," I tell her, my eyes tearing up, "I love him so much."\n"And that's all that matters," she assures me, "Now go on home and work this out."\nI nod, wiping at my eyes, and head back out into the warm spring air.\nMaki's words have me feeling only slightly more hopeful that we can get past this. I'm hoping Taishiro has at least had a chance to cool off in this time so we can talk this through. It's not just about needing him in my life (although that is a huge part of it), I need him to help me figure out what exactly happened to me.\nBut as I make my way up to the apartment and walk in the door, any inkling of hope I might've had winks out of existence.\nTaishiro sits in his hero costume on the step of the genkan, head resting in his hand. It's hard to describe the way I feel seeing him there. My heart still calls out for him and I want to walk into his arms, be held, kiss him. But my stomach roils in dread at how broken he still seems.\nBile rises in my throat as I take in the duffel bag sitting next to him.\n"I..." he speaks quietly, practically in a whisper, "need you... to go..."\nTime stands still as my brain works to try to register what he's saying. He needs me to... go?\n"Go where?" I ask just as breathlessly. My whole body is shaking.\n"Just go," he replies, still not meeting my eyes. He lifts the bag, setting it at his feet.\n"I-I don't understand," my voice comes out pinched, like there's not enough air coming through my throat, "I thought... you said we'd figure something out today."\nHe's silent for a while and I don't have the courage to say anything more. It already feels like I'm standing on the edge of a knife.\n"I wanted to believe you," he finally speaks again, "I wanted you to not be lying."\n"I wasn't!" I say, falling to my knees in front of him, trying to look into his eyes, "I wasn't lying! How can you think I was lying?! Something happened to me! I don't know how I got in that hotel room!"\n"You don't know? Or you don't know how you fell asleep after you-" he cuts himself off, unable to actually say it.\nAn unfathomable weight crushes my heart and I don't even know how I'm surviving from one moment to the next anymore as he finally meets my eyes. Once bright, glittering golden eyes are dull and lifeless, rimmed in red.\n"No, I swear," I answer, shaking my head.\n"Then why..." he questions me, a spark of anger coming into those amber irises, "were you visiting him at his job today?"\nI freeze. How did he know I was there? Suddenly my plan to try and get more answers from Kenji seems stupid as fuck. I should've come here first. I should've come here immediately!\n"I-I was trying to find some kind of proof that I didn't cheat on you. I went to a doctor and she said I wasn't injured. I went to see Kenji because I hoped he might remember something. I-I just wanted to find answers-"\nHe holds his hand up. "Please just stop. Please."\nMy wings droop and I try to just focus on my breathing in and out as the seconds tick by once more. I'm trying to figure out some way this won't end like I'm fearing it will. What can I say to convince him? What can I do?\nDo I tell him now that I'm pregnant? I try to imagine that scenario and it still doesn't lead anywhere but despair. He will still have that crushed expression on his face but with the added resentment that he'll have to deal with me for the rest of his life now.\n"I just want you to tell me the truth," his voice cracks, "If you just told me the truth I'd at least know where I stand. I deserve to know what went wrong."\nI can feel my chin trembling, a hair's breadth away from wailing in agony.\n"Nothing went wrong. I still love you. I'll always be in love with you. Only you."\n"Then why-"\n"I don't know! I don't know!" I cry at last, my self-control finally breaking, "I don't know what happened! I just know that I fucking love you and I don't want anyone else! It hasn't even crossed my mind! No one makes me happy like you do! No one understands me like you do! No one loves me like you do! This is me telling you the truth, Taishiro! I've never been with any other person from the moment I met you because I was so head over heels from the start! The most I've ever done with anyone else without you there was go shopping!"\nIt seems like such an odd thing to include that last tidbit of information but it felt like I had to. I needed to tell him the only thing I've ever done with anyone else. He wants every last bit of truth from me, doesn't he?\n"Why can't you just believe me?! Why don't you trust me?!"\n"Don't you think I want to believe what you're saying?" he raises his voice to me for the first time ever. It's not quite a yell, but it's definitely heated, "Don't you think I want to just accept it and have you back again? I do! Fuck-" He lays a firm hand on the wall, leaning heavily into it, "I want to just forget this ever happened."\nHe closes his eyes and grimaces like he's seeing something horrible.\n"Every time I close my eyes I see it. Every. Single. Time. I can't just accept 'I don't know what happened.' I believe you that you forgot. I don't know what caused it. I don't know what you did. But it doesn't change the fact that something definitely did happen. And it doesn't change the fact that you went and saw him again this morning."\n"How do you know that?!"\n"Because I was trying to believe you, Aiko!" he snaps, "I was going to visit him myself after I calmed down. I wanted to compare your stories."\nThat was the meeting Maki said he'd left for this morning...\n"Instead, I find you leaving that building before I even got the chance to speak with him. I didn't bother after that. Before you even came and talked about this with me, you went and had to see him."\nGuilt stabs me hard like a blow to the ribs. "I just... wanted to get proof..."\n"Do you have proof then?" he questions, his eyes seeming to plead with me.\nMy heart crumples along with my face as I shake my head.\n"How... can you really believe I would cheat on you? After everything we've been through? After how much you've changed me?" I beg him, gripping his knee with both hands, holding his stare.\nThere is resigned exhaustion in his voice when he replies, "You can love someone more than anything else in the world and still cheat on them."\n"S-So you believe me that I love you?"\n"Yes," he sighs.\n"And don't you love me too?!"\n"You know I love you, Aiko."\n"Then why is that not enough?!"\n"Why don't you tell me?" he responds in probably one of the most vicious retorts I've ever received from him.\nI pull back from him, reeling as if he'd actually slapped me. If this goes on any longer, he may just manage to destroy every shred of my heart that's left.\nHe scoffs digging his fingers into his hair as his hood is pushed back. "I'm sorry. That was cruel. I hate what this is doing to me. I'm so ashamed of the things I've been saying and thinking. That's part of why I need you to go. The more I see you and think about you, the more upset I get and it's tearing me apart."\n"But... Where will I go? I don't have an apartment anymore!"\n"A hotel? A friend's?"\n"I won't have any friends anymore when you tell them about this!" I cry in despair at that realization as well. If he's gone, they will be too. That family I'd hoped for, who loved me and accepted me, will be gone the moment they find out.\n"I won't tell anyone about this," he says, looking away toward the floor, "I don't want the boys to know about this so I'll just... tell them we're breaking up, okay? I don't want them to hate you."\nOne panic is only replaced with another at his response.\n"Are we? Are we breaking up?"\n"Don't make me answer that, Aiko. Please," he groans, exasperated.\nThat might as well be an answer. He doesn't need to say more.\n"But what about... the investigation?" I ask, grasping at straws now.\nHe sighs, "I'm not sure yet. It's been a long time since anything has happened. If we need you, I'll let you know."\nI loose a long, trembling breath, curling my wings around my arms for some amount of comfort. "I can't... imagine being without you, Taishiro. I'm sorry for everything. I'm sorry I don't have answers. Just please don't kick me out."\n"Aiko," he sounds so emotionally exhausted, "I don't know what else to do."\nHis voice hitches upward at the end as he also breaks into tears, letting them soak his gloved hand as he covers his face.\nIt's easy to see why his eyes are so red now. He's been crying on and off all this time. He's in just as much pain as I am.\nI'm... I'm hurting him just by being here, talking to him.\nI want to hold him and comfort him and whisper how much I adore him while running fingers through his hair. But now I'm the cause of all of his pain. Now he'll just freeze again like he did last night.\nI don't want to do this. I don't want to leave! I don't want to give up! But I can't stand the sight of him sobbing this way in front of me and not being able to do anything about it other than walk away. He doesn't deserve to hurt this way.\nSo, for his sake, despite how deeply it destroys me, I lay a hand on the duffel bag.\n"I... won't hurt you anymore," I promise him one more time. This time, I'll keep that promise.\nHis stuttered breath stills like he's holding it to lift his head. We meet eyes, both mirroring each other's devastation, and I wish I could see them just one last time filled with adoration for me. But it's gone, replaced by a hurt I can never undo.\nThen I stand and walk out the door.\nEvery single step I take away from our apartment, I'm hoping, praying, begging anyone who might be listening that he'll come after me; that I'll hear those heavy footsteps as he chases me down and tells me he's changed his mind.\nBut he doesn't.\nNot when I'm at the elevator. Not when I'm exiting the building. Not when I reach the train station. And certainly not when I step off the train, back in the same district I used to live in, heading into a hotel and asking for a room for the night.\nI'll figure out where I can go tomorrow. For now, I head into my room and pass out on the large bed that still isn't comparable to Taishiro's, clutching a tear-stained pillow to my chest.\nWell, I don't figure out where to go the next day.\nTomoyo is obviously not an option. I'm too ashamed to tell my mother any of what's going on. She had just been so proud of me for having a healthy relationship and such a nice home. How disappointed would she be now if I called her up and told her that all of that is over and I will now perpetually be a single mother? She'd make me explain the situation and I just can't go through it all again. Not right now.\nDo I even have anyone else I can call? I doubt it.\nThe heartbreak I felt before when I believed Taishiro was afraid of me, and then when I realized it was just me afraid of hurting him, was not even on the scale of how this feels. Back then I was losing the idea of a happy life with someone. And even then, I always felt in the back of my mind that I'd find my way back to him eventually.\nNow, I know what I've lost, I know it's my fault, and I know there is a high likelihood we won't find our way back to each other. Something between us has broken irrevocably.\nI'm going to have to start looking for an apartment some time soon, I suppose. But I just can't do it today. Probably not tomorrow either. I can only just sleep and eat and watch some TV and cry, in no particular order.\nA word of advice: Don't watch even the cheesiest sappy romance movie when you're heartbroken. All of those stories have happy endings. The main character can make the most ridiculous mistake and they still get their happily ever after when they make a grand gesture of apology. After a while, you start to resent that they got theirs and you didn't. Like why does she still love that guy when he only dated her for money? Why does this other guy still want this other girl when she went and used him for a newspaper article? None of it makes sense.\nThe only thing I'm capable of bringing myself to do is call the agency and inform them of my decision to retire.\nI'm only expecting the secretary to accept my resignation but am surprised when the owner of the agency comes on the line after I'm put on hold.\n"Fujisaki," he greets me warmly, "It's been a little while, hasn't it?"\n"Ueda-san," I reply with surprise, "Uh, yeah it has been a bit. Since you took on Whitney."\n"Ah yes, and she's doing well, I hear," he says with a certain amount of pride, "But I recall you telling me when I accepted her that she was not meant to be your replacement."\nOh... I do recall saying that...\nWith a heavy sigh, I do my best to explain myself. "She's not meant to be my replacement. That's not why I asked for her to be taken on. I really saw talent in her. It has nothing to do with my retirement. I'm just... ready to move on."\n"Tomoyo didn't inform me of this news," he persists.\n"We... had a falling out."\nHe sounds more stern when he speaks now. "Is she the cause of all of this? I can find you a new manager."\n"No," I answer quickly, "Definitely not. Actually, the reason we fought was because she didn't want to accept me leaving. Things got heated between us."\n"Oh?" He sounds curious, "That's unfortunate. She can be very passionate about her job."\n"I know," I agree, "But she really crossed a line. I couldn't keep working with her after that."\n"I understand," he says kindly, "You don't need to further explain yourself, Fujisaki. You will be missed, though. There's nothing I can do to get you to stay?"\n"No," I answer, though I am touched he would care enough to ask, "I have... a lot going on in my life right now. I'm ready to start something new."\n"Okay, well if you're sure, I won't stop you," he says, his voice understanding; how I imagine a father would react.\n"Thank you, Ueda-san."\n"Take care, Fujisaki."\nThe call ends and I set my phone down on the side table, leaning back in bed, where I've been laying for the past... some amount of time.\nI'm going to have to figure something out at some point. A new job, a new apartment, some way to put myself back together. But, once again, that's not today.\n--\n"Aiko, I get it now. I understand," Taishiro says to me, running his fingers through my hair, "I don't know how I didn't see it before."\n"Taishiro," I choke out, a tear trailing down my cheek, "Thank you! Thank you! I knew you would!"\n"Let's go home," he says, smiling down at me with that gorgeous grin, "together."\nI wake slowly, my eyes fluttering open in the darkness, searching. But what who they search for isn't there. And, just like it always does, my heart breaks all over again not finding Taishiro at my side.\n"I don't think I can do this," I whisper to no one in particular as I curl in on myself.\nThere are times I wish I'd never met him, never let myself fall for him, never allowed him back into my life after he'd left it once already.\nBut I know I don't regret anything at all. He saved me from myself. He introduced me to a whole new world. I fell in love with so much more than just him when he came into my life. I can't regret that.\nI just regret one thing. And I can never take that one thing back no matter how badly I want to.\nTears silently slide across my cheeks and dampen the pillow as I continue to lay my head on it.\nIf I could just be sorry enough, could he forgive me? The way his face contorted in pain when he woke me has me doubting it.\nI grab for my phone on the nightstand, already knowing what I'm doing is a terrible idea and unable to stop myself despite that. He'll listen. He's Taishiro. Of course he'll listen.\nGoing straight to his number in my phone, I dial it as though on instinct and before I know it, it's ringing... and ringing... and ringing.\nWhy am I more hurt and surprised that he wouldn't pick up? He hates me. Of course he wouldn't-\n"Hello?" A groggy voice answers, causing my stomach to seize up.\nI woke him up! All Might, why am I such a fuckup?!\n"Taishiro?" I squeak out.\nHis voice is more alert when he responds now, "Aiko? What happened? Is something wrong?"\nI feel even more guilty now. Of course he would think of that first.\n"No I... I just had to hear your voice. I miss you." My voice is quiet, small.\nI can hear him sigh heavily on the other side. Whether it's from relief or exasperation I can't tell.\n"Aiko," he says in a voice that is tired in a wholly different way now, "You can't be calling me like this. I have to work in the morning. If it's an emergency, fine, don't hesitate to call me. Otherwise please just..."\nWhat would he say if I told him right now that I'm pregnant? What would he do? Would he be happy? I doubt it. At this point I'm willing to bet he'd think it was a ploy for me to get him to take me back.\n"I miss you," I say again, "I love you, Taishiro. I will never stop loving you."\nHis voice is strained now when he responds, "Aiko, I can't do this-"\n"Were you telling the truth when you said you'd never get over me?" I demand of him, desperation clear.\nHis sigh is weighted with all of the misery that sits between us.\n"I don't want to answer that. It's the middle of the night, Aiko. You can't be doing this..."\n"B-But I-" I cut off my sentence with a hiccup as I start crying again. Is that all I can do anymore? "I woke up- and I just- missed you."\nThere's silence on the other end and I don't know if he's contemplating or fallen asleep or if he just hung up on me.\n"I know," he says after a few more seconds of silence, sounding worn down, "I understand. I really do."\nHe sits on the phone, patient as always, while I continue to only take rattling breaths through my sobs.\n"I'm sorry, Taishiro," I whine pathetically, "I'm so sorry. I'd do anything to fix this. Just tell me what to do!"\n"I can't! You can't do anything. Just please leave me alone for now, okay? That's the only thing I want right now."\nIt's not that answer I want. I don't know if he'll ever give me an answer I want to hear again.\nI try to pull myself together nonetheless, embarrassment burrowing deeper within me as I begin to realize just how idiotic I'm being right now. What am I doing calling him? What did I think was gonna happen? He'd take me back over the phone?!\n"Okay," I say shortly, trying to hold back my trembling, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have called, I just had a dream and- Nevermind, I won't call you anymore. I'm sorry."\n"Aiko-"\nI hang up, burying my face in my pillow and screaming until all of the air is expelled from my lungs.\nI'm acting like a lovesick teenager. What the fuck is wrong with me? I could've just made things even worse with that one dumbass phone call!\nSqueezing my eyes shut, I clutch at my scalp, nearly breaking the skin with my nails.\nI know I'm acting irrationally but I'm almost helpless to stop myself anymore. I'm so desperate and devastated and I wish with all that I am that I could just stop feeling anything in this moment. I want it all to go away. I want to stop hurting Taishiro.\nI can only toss and turn for hours after that, torturing myself by replaying my memories of our happiness and how I wish I could've had that for just a little bit longer. Even if it were just five minutes, I would take it.\nSleep finally claims me again just as the sun begins peeking through my window. What does it matter if I sleep through the day, anyway? I have nowhere to be, nothing to do, no one to see.\nI wake again to the ringing of my phone.\nWhile I wasn't dreaming of Taishiro this time, it's still heart-wrenching to have to wake up alone and remember all over that I'll probably never wake up next to him again.\nIt takes a second to get my bearings before grabbing my phone from the nightstand. I answer before I even check who's calling.\n"Hello?"\n"...you sound worse than him," Aizawa's rough voice answers me. Well, that was pretty unexpected.\n"Sorry," I say weakly, "I'm not feeling great."\n"Yeah," he says, his tone clipped, "I've been informed."\nInformed we're breaking up, I presume. It still hurts to have to face that.\n"So why are you calling me?" I ask with a heavy heart, "You're his friend, aren't you?"\n"I'm not sure why I need to pick sides. To be honest, you're both my friends now. After all of the... things we did, I would've figured you knew that."\n"You wouldn't be if you knew everything," I croak out, hardly recognizing how hollow my voice sounds.\nHis voice is flat when he responds, "I do know."\nI suck in a shocked breath, "What?! B- but he promised..."\n"You have me witnessing on a regular schedule just how much you two are madly in love with each other and you really think I'm going to accept that you just decided to break up?"\nThat has me hesitating. I suppose that's a fair thing to say. If anyone were to notice something wasn't right about that explanation, it would be the dude who's been partaking in our sexual relationship.\n"I don't understand," I say as I feel that familiar coil of pain constricting around my chest, "If you know what happened, why are you calling me?"\n"Having ourselves a bit of a pity party, are we?" He comments.\nThis would be the moment I glare at him and tell him to mind his own business but I just don't have the emotional energy for a fight.\n"Can you really blame me?" I say instead.\nThere's silence as though he's actually considering my words. Or maybe he's just noticed I'm not up for an argument.\nFinally he sighs. "Well, do you have anywhere to go? Where are you staying now?"\n"A hotel. I was gonna look for an apartment at some point."\n"Oh? And have you found one yet?"\n"I said 'at some point'. I'm not feeling up to it yet," I answer him. I need just a little bit longer to wallow in my self-pity.\n"Well, I know you don't have many people. He told me you and your manager are on the outs too." Is he gonna tell him my whole life story? "So if you have nowhere else to go, you can come stay with me."\nI jolt upright at that. "Wh- Why? Why would you do that?"\n"I thought we already established this..." he says dryly.\n"But... you know. He told you that I-" I pause, unable to say it.\n"That you cheated," he finishes for me, ripping the bandaid off.\n"I didn't! I mean I- I don't know what I did. I don't remember what happened. I told him I'm sorry! I tried to get proof I didn't! I don't know what else to do!" I'm practically hyperventilating, reliving the past few days.\n"Alright, alright," he says a little more softly, "You don't have to explain things to me. I'm not asking you anything. I'm just offering you a place to stay for as long as you need it."\n"I can afford a place to stay," I snap defensively.\n"I'm not saying you can't."\n"So what? You're offering me a place to stay just for funzies? Do you feel bad for me or something? Think the little slutty girl needs hugs cause she has no friends?"\n"Wow," he says, completely unperturbed by my meltdown, "That was... uncalled for."\nI know I'm reacting way too aggressively to his offer. I know I shouldn't take offense to it. But I'm so ashamed and even more terrified of clinging to someone else for support. I thought I'd lost everyone when I was forced out. I don't think I could handle it if I leaned on someone else and they kicked me out also.\n"Does Taishiro even know you're doing this? Wouldn't he be angry?" I question. I imagine if I went and lived with Aizawa, it would only confirm his suspicions about me.\n"He was the one who suggested it," Aizawa says hesitantly.\nThat startles me. "What? Why?"\nI'm positive he knows the answer to that but his response is just, "Who knows? Does it really matter anyway? I wouldn't have offered if I didn't want to. Don't you need to continue your training anyway? You can do that here."\nMy heart sinks. "I don't want to train anymore. What's the point? It doesn't matter anyway."\n"For you," he easily responds, "You control your quirk for you, not someone else. What do you intend to do? Starve your body of energy until you die?"\n"Maybe" I want to say. What am I gonna do? Have sex with someone else? If I want to survive I have to.\n.\nHe goes on, "Do you think Fat would be okay with that? Do you think that's some kind of atonement?"\nWhat does his opinion matter anyway? He doesn't want me anymore. The least I could do is abstain until-\n"You really have nothing else to live for?"\nSomething shifts within me and my hand subconsciously goes to my belly. I'm suddenly struck with deep, overwhelming guilt. Not over Taishiro, but over my baby still growing inside of me. I chose to keep them and I've been so selfish in my thinking lately, only considering them in relation to how I might go about telling Taishiro. That's not what a good mother does. They deserve better than who I've been lately.\nThough my heart is still heavy, my world suddenly becomes less dim and lifeless.\n"I do," I say quietly, "I do have more to live for."\n"Good," he sounds warmer this time, "Then you'll come and stay with me and we'll continue your training."\n"But I don't... feel comfortable without him."\n"That's fine," he says, unworried, "It's probably time we work on absorbing other emotions, don't you think?"\nA light, small and fragile, sparks to life again within me. Hope. A way out of this dark, desolate place I've shrunken myself into. It's so tiny, it feels like it could be snuffed out any moment. I'm not out of this darkness yet. I still feel so destroyed. But Aizawa has pointed me in the direction I might be able to find some semblance of happiness again.\nThis was Taishiro's doing. This was the only thing he could bring himself to give me but it's enough. It's more than I deserve from him.\nThank you, I say silently to the Taishiro in my heart who still smiles at me the way that never failed to make me smile back.\n"Okay," I finally relent, "I'll come."\n"That's what I thought," Aizawa's voice is back to that cool, monotonous tone, "I'm sure Eri and Kirishima and Tetsutetsu will be glad to know you're okay."\nI blink, my brain ceasing function for a second. I knew Eri lived with him, but the boys do as well?\n"You did know I reside on the UA campus, right?"\nNo! No I didn't! Or maybe I did and never considered what that meant? I'm not sure but this is certainly a surprise for me. I'll be around Ei and Tetsu still...\n"Yeah. Of course I knew that. I'll be glad to see them too," I lie, at least about knowing where he lived. Whether I'll be happy to see the boys really depends on if they'll be happy to see me. "So when should I come?"\n"Whenever you feel like it," he says without much thought.\nPulling my phone away from my ear, I check the time. 1pm. Yeah, I slept for a while, didn't I? But looking around my solitudinous hotel room, I know I'd rather make a hasty trip over to UA than spend another night here, alone with my thoughts.\n"So I can come today then?" I ask, chewing on my lip anxiously.\n"If you really want to. I'm not rushing you," he says with the same leisurely tone.\n"Okay, I'll be there in a few hours then." I push myself up off the bed to start packing the meager amount of clothes I've brought with me, "And... thanks, Aizawa."\nHe's silent for a few beats, then just says, "See you then." and hangs up.\nI check the train schedule and pack up what little I have. I'll just head out now and wait a little bit for the next train. Now that I have somewhere to go someone waiting for me I can't wait to get out of here. Even if it's not Taishiro.\nOpening the door to the hotel room to leave for the first time since I arrived, I barely notice Whitney in time to keep from running straight into her.\nStartled, I jump back, my wings flapping to regain my balance, "Whitney, holy shit! You scared the living hell out of me!"\n"Oh," she says awkwardly, fidgeting with the strap of her purse, "Sorry."\n"What are you doing here?" I ask with growing confusion. Is she looking for me or was this some kind of weird coincidence?\n"Oh..." she says again looking away from me, discomfort dulling her green eyes, "I guess there's no point hiding it. Tomoyo tracked you down here. Credit cards and all. She's super resourceful."\nWell that's not fucking creepy as hell...\n"Okay. And... what are you doing here?" I ask again with more of an edge of suspicion.\nShe fidgets with the choker at her neck, a pretty blue cameo adorning it with a black teardrop bead hanging from it.\n"I really don't like being the go-between here," she grimaces slightly, "I'm sorry I showed up here. It kinda looks like you're going through something so I-"\n"Tomoyo would know, wouldn't she?" I cut her off, my voice flat, "She's probably responsible for this."\n"For... what? What happened?" She sounds genuinely concerned and confused. Did Tomoyo tell her nothing?\nSo I launch into a short recap of everything that's happened over the past few days, excluding revealing my pregnancy. I won't make that mistake twice. Instead, I just tell her of my intentions to leave the modeling business.\n"I'm sorry, Aiko-chan," she says sadly, "That's awful. You didn't deserve for that to happen to you. Are you sure Tomoyo orchestrated all of that, though? It seems really extreme, even by her standards."\n"No," I admit, "I don't know for sure. I just suspect it."\n"Well, I'll admit she sent me here so try and convince you to come talk to her. She said she would've come herself but she worried that if you saw her, you might attack her or something and she figured you'd at least listen to me."\n"What does she want to talk to me about?" I ask coldly.\nI assume she wants to convince me to come back to modeling now that she's crushed any hope of my dreams of a whole family coming true. She's sorely mistaken if that's the case.\n"She didn't really say," Whitney fidgets with her choker again, "She did seem sad, though. I think she might just want to apologize. It's difficult to tell because she's always kinda... ruthless, but it seems like she does care about you in some way."\nCares about her good name more like. If I started telling everyone the things she's done, it'd be over for her in this business.\n"I don't really care," I shake my head, "And I don't really want to talk to her. I have somewhere to be."\nWhitney swallows nervously. She's clearly not comfortable having to confront me or insist on anything when I've done so much for her and taken her under my wing. It pisses me off even more that Tomoyo would try to use her this way against me.\n"W-well... She's kinda... downstairs," her voice weakens as she speaks each word.\nShe's fucking downstairs? Seriously?! My tail whips side to side as my body heats in irritation. She really just doesn't care what I want at all.\n"Fine!" I snarl at the wincing girl, "I'll fucking meet with her and if she says anything inappropriate, I will punch her right in face."\nWhitney nods submissively as I pull out my phone.\n"Hang on I have to tell Aizawa I'll be later than I thought cuz I have to talk to this-"\nWhat seems like a black haze comes over my vision, cutting me off and making my mind go blank. I'm momentarily stunned, dropping my phone, and I look over at Whitney whose demeanor has wholly changed now.\nGone is the submissive, awkward girl who was trying so hard to please me. In her place stands a cold, calculating woman, her green eyes blazing with displeasure.\n"Whitney?" I can barely wheeze out before the whole world goes black.\n"Oh my god, is that Aiko? Aiko-chan, wake up!" A familiar feminine voice says.\nSomeone is shaking me. My body doesn't want to respond, though. I feel so tired...\n"They drugged her," another voice says. Also feminine, though not familiar.\n"Huh?" I groan groggily, trying to blink myself awake.\n"Be careful, Aiko-chan. That stuff makes you really woozy," the familiar voice says again.\nWho the hell is that?\nI try to sit up but only succeed in collapsing on the cot I'm currently laying on. I was drugged?\n"Just relax," yet another voice says, "It'll wear off in a few hours. Fighting it is really disorienting. There's no point."\nWho are all of these people?! What the hell is going on?!\nI open my eyes and find myself in a dim room, surrounded by five other women who are all beautiful and trim. This is... odd.\nI try to piece together what led me to be here. At least this time I can remember.\n"Whitney," I hiss, "That bitch..."\nI try to sit up again and still fail. It feels like the room turns itself upside down whenever I move my body.\n"I told you to relax," a dark-skinned woman, with deep brown eyes says to me.\n"Yeah, Whitney got me too," one of the girls says. She's got curly red hair and freckles.\n"Kona," another girl with iridescent scales says, naming her kidnapper.\n"Inko," a brunette with deep red lips.\n"Me too," the familiar voice says and I finally recognize her.\n"Mizuki?" I ask, my voice trembling.\nThe girl who had once been so arrogant and sharp-tongued looks worn down now, almost broken. She nods.\nThere's a weeping sound and all the girls look over, parting for me to see another girl here, sitting on her own cot and hugging her knees. I can't see her face but her hair is a beautiful powdery blue, cut short with an undercut.\nThe dark-skinned girl walks over to her to lay an arm around her.\n"She cries a lot," Mizuki explains, "She misses her family."\n"Where... where am I?" I ask cautiously, though I think I might already know.\n"Not sure," the scaled girl says, "We all just wake up here and they take us away sometimes, people look at us, and then they bring us back until, eventually, we don't come back."\nIt is. It's exactly what I think it is.\n"They're... buying people," I explain, exhausted, "Trafficking."\nNone of the girls bats an eyelash. It might be news to them but none are surprised.\nThe sound of multiple locks being turned shifts everyone's attention to the door, all of the girls involuntarily cringing away from it.\nThe door finally opens and Whitney steps through, that soulless, cruel look still in her eye and my blood begins to boil as I look at her.\n"Aiko," a hard voice slices through me and in walks Tomoyo, her head held high as though she were a queen looking down at her pathetic subjects, "You're awake."\nShe smiles a sickeningly sweet smile that is somehow not warm whatsoever.\nUnbridled rage, burns through my veins and I scream, pushing from the bed and throwing myself at her, my claws extending. But she, nor Whitney, seem concerned as the room spins and I collapse to the hard, tiled floor.\nI can hear her heels clicking as she draws closer and kneels next to me.\n"I told you," she says with calm assuredness, "that if you kept that baby, you wouldn't like the outcome."\nI snarl wildly through clenched teeth as I try to push up again and fail. Hot tears of frustration leak from my eyes as I rest my cheek on the cold tiles.\nI can see the other girls staring at me, ashen-faced and horrified. Even the blue-haired girl is watching, her eyes the same color as her hair, sparkling with outrage.\n"Get her up," Tomoyo instructs Whitney, "We're going to have that chat now."\nMy wings flap constantly, trying to find my balance as Whitney hauls me to my feet and keeps me upright despite everything seeming to turn upside down again.\nShe half walks, half carries me through the doorway and I can't even look back at the girls before it slams shut behind us.\n

Chapter 30:\n"I'm not taking the fall for this..."\nI've heard this voice before. This dream again... This memory...\n"If you're still here by the time I come back, I'll deal with you and him myself."\nHer voice gets more muffled as she walks away until a door slams.\nThen Jared is coming through the door...\nMy phone ringing jolts me awake and I sit for a moment, listening to the ringtone as I reacclimate to the world.\nRight... She's gone now.\nDoes that mean everything I went through- everything we went through- just doesn't matter anymore? Why did she do this? What happened?!\nMy phone's about to go to voice-mail. I can't afford to not answer, someone might need me.\n"Hello?" I pick up, sounding awful.\nThere's a beat of silence before- "Taishiro?"\nI'm immediately pierced by that melodic voice. She sounds scared, though.\n"Aiko?" I panic. Why would she be calling me in the middle of the night? "What happened? Is something wrong?"\n"No I... I just had to hear your voice. I miss you."\nGod, her voice... Just the sound of her voice makes me feel like I'm being gutted with longing and regret.\nI sigh. Why is she doing this to me? Doesn't she know how much I feel like dying?\n"Aiko, you can't be calling me like this," I tell her ruefully, "I have to work in the morning. If it's an emergency, fine, don't hesitate to call me. Otherwise please just..."\nI trail off. I don't want to hurt her more than I already have.\nI don't hate her. Lord knows I wish I could. But I don't. Her voice her presence is like the most depressing drug. Every second I see her, I want to pull her to me. Every second I hear her voice, I want to tell her I love her.\n"I miss you," she says again. She sounds so damn small. I did that to her. "I love you, Taishiro. I will never stop loving you."\nWhy? Why does she have to sound so hurt? Why can't she just be unapologetic and make it easier to hate her? She's stabbing me in the heart with every word she speaks.\n"Aiko," I grit out past the lump that's formed in my throat, "I can't do this-"\n"Were you telling the truth when you said you'd never get over me?" She suddenly springs on me.\n"Yes," I want to tell her, "Yes, I'm ruined for anyone else. I'd rather be alone than have anyone who's not you."\nBut I won't say that. Because it'll only make things harder. Why couldn't she have felt the same way?\nInstead, I sigh through all the words I want to say and reply, "I don't want to answer that. It's the middle of the night, Aiko. You can't be doing this..."\n"B-but I-" She hiccups, and her words sound more like keening now, "I woke up- and I just- missed you."\nDammit... Please don't cry. When I first met her, she never cried, even when she was in pain or sad. She just didn't. Like nothing in this world was worth those precious, sparkling tears.\nNow, every time I've spoken to her lately, I've brought her to them. She thinks I'm worth crying for... And I push her to it every time...\n"I know," I tell her, "I understand. I really do."\nFor a while, there's nothing on the other end of the line except the sounds of her hiccuping sobs, each one cutting me deeper than the last until I think I might die just from the sound of that tiny little whine she makes when she's feeling especially pained.\n"I'm sorry, Taishiro," she says, her voice completely broken, "I'm so sorry. I'd do anything to fix this. Just tell me what to do!"\n"I can't!" I groan with frustration because I really just don't know what to tell her, "You can't do anything. Just please leave me alone for now, okay? That's the only thing I want right now."\nI can hear her sobs for a little while longer until she starts taking long, deep breaths, trying to calm herself.\n"Okay," Her voice is calmer now, though still strained, "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have called, I just had a dream and-" I'm at the end of my rope. Not in anger but the overwhelming need to dry her tears, to hear her voice filled with happiness again. I'm so desperate for it. "Nevermind, I won't call you anymore. I'm sorry."\n"Aiko, tell me where you are. I'll come. I'll-"\nBut she's already hung up. I've only been speaking to dead air.\nI toss my phone back on my nightstand, slamming a fist into the mattress, waking Bento in his cat tree in the process.\nI'm so dumb. After everything, I am still so dumb for this woman.\nMy chest aches so badly, it feels like I'm gonna explode if I don't just scream or throw something. I've never felt this out of control in my life.\nI can't have her around me when I'm this upset, not because I think I'd hurt her (though I do worry I'd say something mean. I already have), but because it only gets more painful when I see her or hear her or have anything to do with her. Because every time I would see her smile or laugh or touch me I would wonder if she did the same with him and it would eventually just drive me insane.\nBento jumps up on the bed with a whiny meow, nudging at my hand for pets.\nThe pressure in my chest eases somewhat as I scratch at his ears. That is until he decides to settle himself right under my chin, purring loudly.\n"Thanks, buddy," I wheeze through his hair, "I really needed a cat scarf."\nEven though I feel exhausted, I can't seem to get back to sleep.\nI wish it were as easy as forgiving her and taking her back. I know she's confused and regretful. I know she's hurting and it's tearing me apart to see her this way. But every time I think of her, my mind goes back to her laying in that bed, Kenji next to her, and how peaceful she looked. She looked so happy, she was practically glowing. Nothing I do can get that image out of my head.\nAnd now all I can seem to do is make her sadder and sadder.\nI'm thankful she hung up after all. I still can't see her. I still can't deal with this.\nLifting Bento off of me, I sit up, giving him a few pets before I slide out of bed and cook some food while I wait for the sun to rise.\nAizawa walks into my office not long after the agency opens.\nHe takes one look at me and narrows his eyes. "I'm sure you're aware you look terrible."\nI just nod, gazing up at him.\n"We were supposed to have breakfast together, remember?"\nNo. I forgot. Only now do I recall that Aiko and I were supposed to meet with him to go over what we wanted to achieve with her training next. She's gotten so good at controlling her quirk now. She's worked so hard.\nIf she'd been here, she would've taken that sticky note that's still stuck to my computer monitor and written it on my calendar, color coding it all up for me. I've gotten more used to checking that than my sticky notes.\n"Well let's go," he says, motioning me to come along as he steps out the door, "I'm sure you've got a story to tell me."\nAs we walk through the streets, it feels like such a strange juxtaposition being this depressed while being surrounded by the peaceful pinks and whites of the cherry blossoms in bloom.\nWe pass by the cafe she'd been sitting at with Kenji and my blood runs cold, jealousy and betrayal tying my stomach in knots.\nI'd searched for her so frantically. Someone at this cafe said they'd seen her here sitting with a man.\n"He'd just confessed to her and asked her to be with him again," the waitress said, "It was so romantic."\nThat was the moment I started feeling that cold spike in my heart that suspected she might not be in any danger at all.\n"So I assume something happened with Aiko," Aizawa says with a distinct lack of interest, "Since she's not joining us."\n"We're breaking up," I tell him without any preamble.\nHis brows hitch just a little higher at that. "She left you?"\nI sigh, shaking my head.\nHis eyes narrow at me, "You left... her..."\nHe says it like he doesn't believe it.\n"Does someone have to leave someone?" I backpedal, "We're just... breaking up. It just felt like the right-"\n"No," he eyes me suspiciously.\nI'm not quite sure what he means by that.\n"...No?"\n"No. You're not just breaking up. Something happened." He speaks with certainty.\nI'm feeling more anxious by the second. The boys accepted this response pretty easily. They seemed upset about it and were whining about missing her, but they didn't just not believe me.\nEven Suneater believed me, though he seemed more unsettled. Maybe he didn't believe me so much as feel unwilling to pry further.\nMaki, in a strange turn of events, has been mad at me about the whole thing, even when I told her it was mutual. She acts like I did something wrong. She's barely spoken to me for the past few days other than to hand me my messages or tell me someone's come to visit.\n"Fat, I don't do romance. I'm not interested in falling in love. That doesn't mean I don't know what it looks like. You two have it worse than the two numbskulls in my class I have to watch circling each other. But you know that and she knows that."\nI swallow thickly, feeling overly warm as he continues staring me down.\n"So. Something. Happened."\nI huff out a sigh of surrender, "I told her I wouldn't tell anyone. It's... not good."\nWe finally reach the restaurant we've been traveling toward, ducking through the doorway to take a seat.\nHe just continues watching me expectantly. Man, why does he hafta use that "teacher" look on me?\n"I told her I'd just tell people we're breaking up and we are so that's enough isn't it?" I say with growing discomfort.\n"I was helping her learn to control her quirk. We had an agreement. You can't just tell me you're breaking up and expect me to accept that. I'll call her if I have to."\nHe pulls out his phone and scrolls through like he's actually about to call her right here in front of me.\nI smack the phone, along with his hand, down onto the table, holding them beneath my palm.\n"Don't."\nHis eyes widen at my seriousness, genuinely perturbed.\nSuddenly realizing that I'm acting like a complete jackass again, I lift my hand with a grimace. "I'm sorry. Just... don't call her, okay? I'll tell you what happened. Just please..."\n"Okay..." he says warily, putting his phone back in his pocket.\nI go over what's happened in as much detail as I can muster, guilt eating at me for having broken my promise to her. I can't hide anything from Aizawa. In the meantime, our food is brought to us.\nWhen I'm finished, he sits quietly considering.\n"It... doesn't sound good," he admits, lowering his eyes.\nMy heart squeezes. I knew that, it's just hard to hear from someone else as well.\n"But don't you think something maybe really did happen to her? What if she was..." He doesn't say what he's really thinking, going for an easier word, "drugged."\n"I... am ashamed to admit that I didn't think of those things that night, especially since she woke up and seemed completely alert, not coming down from anything or groggy or even muddled other than saying she didn't remember what happened. I was so emotionally charged, I thought I might actually hurt that guy. It's why I walked away. I needed to clear my head."\nAizawa nods. "It's a difficult position to find your partner in."\n"The next day, I started thinking maybe I was too hasty. I was so messed up. I figured I should talk to the guy and hear his story. But... when she walked out of that building..."\nI relive that moment now, how every single cell within me felt like it was being dunked in ice water. It felt like a confirmation of all of my deepest, darkest fears. How can you even describe the feeling of realizing the girl of your dreams wants someone else? Heartbreak doesn't even seem to scratch the surface.\n"I'm sorry this happened, Fat," Aizawa cuts into my reverie, "I understand how you're feeling but this just seems so out of nowhere. She loves you. I'm sure of that much."\n"Yeah, she does," I agree, remembering her phone call last night and how she sobbed those words out to me.\n"Maybe it was a mistake? Like she got caught up in the moment and things got out of hand. Maybe she doesn't want to remember," he suggests.\n"I was considering that," I say, even though my heart weighs even heavier at the thought.\nBut even if it was a one time thing and she never did it again, that wouldn't fix my loss of trust and I would still see that beautiful glowing face, lying contently next to someone else for the rest of my life. Do I even want to know what she was dreaming of in those moments?\n"And you'd never forgive her for that?"\n"I don't know. I can't even think about it right now so, for now, I'd say the answer is no," I reply with a bowed head as my heart threatens to pull me down with it.\nAizawa nods again and goes silent, returning to his meal.\nIt must be nice for him to never have to deal with these emotions. Never have to feel betrayed by your significant other; never have to cry every time you imagine them being happy with someone else. It must make life easier.\nBut I suppose that's a pretty self-centered notion. He's known betrayal. He's known heartbreak of a different kind. Maybe he understands more than I'm giving him credit for.\n"Zawa," I say tiredly, pushing around the food on my plate with my chopsticks, "Will you take her in? Please? For me?"\nAizawa watches me with dark, questioning eyes, "She cheated on you, Fat. No one would blame you if you just left her alone. Why are you still trying to help her?"\nI know she has no other friends. Everyone I've ever introduced her to are the only people she has. It stabs all the deeper that she'd betray me like this despite that. Could she really not help herself when Kenji was so nice to her again?\nI mentally slap myself for thinking something so disgusting about her. In the end, when faced with her infidelity, I'm really no better than any of the other people who called her a slut and treated her like an object. Maybe her manager had been right all along...\nShrugging my shoulders, I cast my gaze down and take a bite of the fish in front of me. It's good...\nAizawa is silent for a moment, continuing to watch me as I slowly take a few more bites, my shoulders hunched as though that might keep my heart from cracking any further.\nHe hums in assent, finally agreeing to my request, and when I glance up at him he smiles at me wanly, "You're so soft, my friend."\nI look away again, my cheeks feeling warm.\n"Not just for you, though. She is my friend. I know what she did isn't okay but, if what you tell me is anything to go by, she needs someone," he amends.\n"Thanks," I say, for once actually daring to feel a little more hopeful now. Maybe, one day, this all won't hurt so much.\nIt's 9pm when my phone rings. I'm still at the office, working late because, well, what else is there to do?\nChecking the caller ID, I pick up quickly. "Zawa, what's up? Did she turn the offer down?"\n"Fat," his tone is serious in a way that makes an icy finger of fear drag down my spine, "I'm going to tell you something and I want you to stay calm and try to help me figure this out, okay?"\nThat does nothing to make me stay calm. In fact, my fear ratchets up a few notches.\n"What happened," I ask, my breaths going shallow.\n"She didn't turn the offer down. She sounded... well less sad. She said she'd be here 'in a few hours.'"\n"Okay, that- that sounds okay," I say hopefully.\n"But that was at one o' clock. She never showed up. I thought maybe, somehow, through sheer airheadedness, got lost and forgot where UA is or maybe couldn't find her way on the campus so I called her and she didn't pick up."\n"Okay, well maybe she was on the train-"\n"I texted her. I called her again. I don't know how many times it's been now. She's not picking up. I found the hotel she's been staying at. They said she never checked out but they sent someone up to her room and she didn't answer the door."\nSheer, unbridled terror rips through me. She was alone. I left her alone.\n"Where is the hotel?!" I demand, throwing open my office door and taking the steps down three at a time.\nHe gives me the address and tells me he's already on his way over now as I race toward the station.\nI manage to catch a train just before it's about to leave. I'm practically bouncing in place, wishing the train would move faster.\nWhat happened to her?! I tried to check the GPS on her phone like I did last time but it's been turned off. No. No!\nThis isn't like last time. I could still find her last time. She didn't... She didn't try to keep her location a secret... Why wouldn't she have done that? She knows it's there.\nI don't have more time to think about this. I have to find her now. When I know she's safe, then I can consider this further.\nI practically fly off the train, shoving past people with hurried apologies as I make my way to the hotel she's been staying at.\nPlease just let this be a mistake. Please just let me find her safe. Please I don't even care if I find her in bed with someone else again, just let her be okay. Don't let my horrible decisions have hurt her.\n"I'm looking for Fujisaki Aiko," I snap at the woman at the front desk, "I'm a hero. I'm worried she's in danger."\nThe woman's eyes are wide with surprise at my sudden outburst. "Y-yes, r-room 425. Here's the key. Someone called earlier and-"\nI don't have time to hear her further explanation. Instead, I just snatch the key from the desk and race the elevators.\nMy leg shakes impatiently as I take it to the fourth floor and squeeze out the doors as soon as they are wide enough.\nPlease be okay. Please be safe. Please! Please! Please!\nMy whole body trembles with nerves as I slide the card into the lock.\nShe'll be in bed asleep, I assure myself, I'll wake her up and she'll be surprised and sad and scared but she'll be okay.\nI hold my breath as I push the door open and am greeted by a dark room.\nFlipping on the first light switches I come to, I light up the whole room and my eyes dart wildly from place to place, searching.\nThe bed is empty, made as though she had intended to leave and not sleep in it again. The bathroom is empty. So is the closet.\nI even go to the curtains and rip them open, checking the balcony. But it's empty too.\nWhere else? Where else? My mind is frantically trying to think of where she might be. Maybe she went to the gym? Or... there's a spa here? The pool?\nBut those ideas quickly slip from my mind as my eyes land on the duffel bag full of clothes. The ones I packed for her through tear-blurred eyes.\nBeside it lays her phone, the screen slightly cracked, and my heart plummets through the floor.\nShe's not here. She's gone. Again. And this time I don't even know who has her. I don't even know where to look.\nI did it again. I always leave her alone when she needs me most.\nI'm so ashamed.\n

Chapter 31:\nAiko\n"Get the fuck off me!" I snarl at Whitney as she sets me in a plush armchair opposite Tomoyo who is already seated on the couch across from me, her legs crossed.\nI was brought up some stairs into what looks to be a house completely lacking in anything notable. It looks like any other middle-class house you would walk into, even decorated with semi-modern furniture, new appliances, and large, curtained windows that, I assume, let in a lot of light. It's dark outside right now, though. I must've been out for a while.\nWhitney's demeanor is calm as she takes up a position next to the couch. She's still wearing the simple outfit she'd been in when she took me from my hotel room and it's unnerving to see her in such normal clothes now that I know what she is.\nBut my attention refocuses on Tomoyo, sitting and watching me with cool, assessing eyes. Only a coffee table, glass topped and adorned with a neatly trimmed bonsai, sits between us.\nI only stare back, feeling the bite of my claws as I grip my legs. I'm not tied up but I'm well aware of the fact that I can't move. I might as well have my hands bound.\nIt enrages me more than anything that she's right there! I could take two strides and choke the life out of her. She's part of this ring that I've been going after this whole time! And she's recruited my kohai of all people?! The girl who was supposed to be the undercover agent!\n"What the hell do you want from me? You're obviously not interested in apologizing," I spit out, voice dripping with venom.\n"Hmm, you're right that I won't apologize but I am regretful, Aiko," Tomoyo shakes her head in disappointment.\n"About what?!"\n"A lot of things. Letting you carry on with this guy, not making things more clear to you about what would happen if you left this business. But, like I said, I really didn't think you would fuck him. How does that work anyway?"\nI spit at her. Literally. The small glob of saliva only landing just short of her shoes.\n"Classy," she comments before moving on, "I protected you all this time. I kept the people who would drag you down away-"\n"You stole me from my mother! You lied to her and to me!"\n"For your benefit," she adds.\n"And Kenji? You pushed him away too!"\n"Oh, you figured that out finally? Or did he tell you that a few days ago when you were in bed with him?"\nMy nostrils flare as my tail snaps. "You did that too, didn't you?! You made me black out somehow and wind up in bed with him! You made Taishiro find us and-"\nTomoyo laughs sadistically, a manic smile on her lips. "Oh Aiko... No. I didn't do anything to you to get you to do that. You did it all yourself. Don't you know it's childish to blame other people for your own actions? I only took advantage of a very convenient situation."\nAll of my rage drains from me as though washed away with the tide.\n"No. You're full of shit. You did it. Why do you know so much if you didn't?"\nHer expression turns slightly softer, "I keep tabs on you. I have to. I already said I've been keeping you safe."\n"How the hell is this," my head motions around the room, "keeping me safe?!"\nHer eyes burn bright with anger at that question. "It's not! Because you had to go and ruin it! I have kept so many drooling, obsessive men away from you, you can't even fathom it."\n"Yeah," I mock her, "Like Jared."\n"Yes," she says seriously, "Like Jared. He was mooning after you for years and I kept putting him off. 'Not until she's 18!' 'Not until she says yes to America!' 'Not until this Fat Gum issue goes away!' But he got tired of the excuses and he took you from me. Not only that but he hurt you. And he had to answer for that."\nCold realization dawns on me as she explains. Jared said I was valuable to "them." No. I'm valuable to her. She's not just a part of this ring... She's the one who gives the orders. She's the one who calls the shots. She allows or disallows people to do things.\nShe's the ringleader.\n"Believe it or not, I do care about you, Aiko. I would've sold you off right away if I didn't. The moment I recruited you, people were beating down my door so to speak to get their hands on you-"\n"I was fifteen."\n"And?" She looks at me questioningly.\nDisgusting.\n"But I was fond of you. You were something special. As a model, as a person. You were magnetic. So I blew them all off, even when I was being offered some of the highest prices I've ever seen."\nEvery word she says sickens me to my very core. Is this supposed to be some kind of heartfelt story?\n"But I couldn't just tell them you were off limits. What would they say about me if they knew I went soft for one of my girls? They'd rip me apart. So I promised them that you'd be up for bid when you retired. But I figured that they'd have lost interest in you by the time I expected you to."\nI remember her saying she believed I could keep modeling into my fifties if I played my cards right. This was her version of saving me?\n"But instead you meet this hero out of nowhere and suddenly he's just there, everywhere you go. I was inclined to let him stay. I knew he would drool over you but I figured he would protect you and I never believed you'd want him too until it was too damn late. Next thing I know you're telling me your pregnant and trying to leave?!" She shakes her head, anger tinging her voice again, "I held off from telling anyone but, of course, you had to call the agency and tell them you were retiring. I couldn't stop the phone calls after that. I couldn't just let you go."\nI let this information sink in.\nI was always a target. This is what Jared was also trying to save me from. He knew what she would do with me if I retired. But she led him along and let him believe that he could have me if he did her dirty work. She was never going to let that happen, though.\nIt makes me sick to be considering myself from her point of view, as an object and not as a human being.\n"S-So what now? Now you sell me?" My lip curls at the thought.\nShe looks almost regretful as she watches me. "You left me with no other choice, Aiko. I wanted you to be free and just live out your life in happiness. But you chose a man instead."\n"I didn't choose man!" I shriek at her, "I chose me! Taishiro is just a result of that! He's in my life" or at least he was "because he supported me every step of the way to being who I truly want to be. We fit together. I didn't just choose him over modeling!"\nTomoyo rolls her eyes in the middle of my monologue, "Yes, you're in love and everything is rainbows and butterflies when you're around each other. I know. It's great. Whatever. Spin it any way you want but at the end of the day, you've left me without any other options. Everyone who ever sat and waited in line for you knows you're retiring now and I will have to bid you off."\n"You are a sick fuck," I sneer at her.\nShe ignores my comment. "And now we come to the crux of the issue. That. Baby."\nShe stands, pointing at me at my stomach and my blood turns to ice as she skirts around the table.\nMy legs sting as my claws extend further, digging deeper gouges into my flesh. Fear and hatred vie for supremacy within my body.\n"If you hurt my baby... I will fucking kill you," I seethe with all the fury I'm feeling in this moment.\nShe isn't even phased by my threat, her brows furrowing in mock offense. "How could you think I would be that cruel? I'm not going to force you to terminate your pregnancy. I'm not completely unreasonable."\nAnxiety that I hadn't known I was harboring is released at that. I was so sure she'd force that on me. I thought that had been the whole reason for capturing me initially. It's sad that I actually feel thankful to her at this moment.\n"It's your choice if you want to have the baby. Of course, I won't take that choice from you," she says kindly, leaning down to caress my cheek, "But you need to understand what that choice entails."\nWhat it entails? Dread settles itself once more in my stomach.\n"What's that supposed to mean?" I snarl, baring my teeth.\n"It means you're my property, Aiko, until I see fit to sell you. It means that baby in there will be too."\nHorror and disgust sink claws into me. My baby will be... hers?\n"So your options here are simple, in my opinion: You can either choose to get rid of it now or choose to carry it to term and after you give birth, I'll sell you both separately, of course to the highest bidder."\nIt takes me a moment to catch my breath, reeling from what she's just told me. I'm speechless at the complete lack of her humanity. She would take my baby? She would sell a baby who hasn't even known what freedom is yet?\n"It's your choice," she croons, smiling sweetly.\nA hand goes to my stomach, wanting to protect; wanting to comfort. No matter what, I'll lose them. No matter what, I'll never hold them or tell them I love them. And I do. I love this tiny little piece of me; of Taishiro as well.\nThis is no reprieve. This is so much worse than giving me no choice at all.\nFrom the corner of my eye, I see Whitney shift slightly and, for just a split second, I think I see discomfort there. But I blink and that expression is gone, probably only imagined.\n"I hate you," is all I can breathe out past the tightening in my chest, "You never cared about me at all."\nTomoyo stands at full height again, gazing down at me through her glasses with the same frigid stare. No insults or accusations I hurl at her ever even begin to chip away at her icy exterior. For all I know, she's sold every piece of her soul away.\n"I'll let you think about it, but only for a little while. I'd love to say there's no rush but we're on a bit of a timeline here. I need you to decide by tomorrow."\nTOMORROW?!\n"I can't! I can't decide that soon!" I say pathetically, forgetting my hatred through my panic.\n"Sorry, darling. It's the best I can do."\nThe faux expression of sympathy on her face makes me want to claw her eyes out. My heart is breaking. My world is falling apart. My freedom is gone and my baby... My baby...\nFighting through the nausea and spinning room, I throw myself at Tomoyo. She's close enough now, I can reach her, even if it means toppling over.\nHer eyes go wide with shock as I reach for her, my claws slicing through her fine pantsuit.\nBut Whitney is there, pulling me back and sending me off balance to fall, wings flailing to the couch.\n"It's wearing off," Tomoyo throws a glare at Whitney, "Drug her again."\nWhitney's head snaps in her direction, opening her mouth to say something but Tomoyo just lifts a brow and she just shuts it again.\n"No!" I scream, struggling to get back up, "What if you hurt-"\nMy vision fills with that black haze and I let out a tortured cry that weakens as lose consciousness once more.\nFat Gum\n"Fat," Aizawa's voice pulls me from my thoughts as I stare into the cracked screen of Aiko's phone.\n"I left her alone," I say hoarsely, "I left her alone and she's gone."\nAizawa casts his gaze around the room and lands on the baggage, the same as I did. His lips press together in a thin line.\n"All of this is my fault. I keep letting her go when she needs me," I grit out through clenched teeth.\n"We'll find her, Fat-"\n"How?!" I whirl on him, "There aren't any clues on her phone! She left everything here! We don't even know where to start!"\n"You need to calm down," he says, his bloodshot eyes steady, "Take a few breaths and when you're ready, we're gonna go down to the front desk again."\n"Why?!"\n"Take some breaths, Fat," he orders me firmly, "I know how you feel about her and I know how you always want to jump into these kinds of situations feet first but I'm telling you right now that we can not do that. You'll end up making the same mistake as last time or worse. You are a smart person and if this were any other case, you'd know how to handle this with a level head."\nHe's right. I would know. But this is Aiko and she's gone and it's my fault! I can't stop the constant circling of 'what if's' and overbearing guilt.\n"We will find her," Aizawa assures me again, laying a hand on my shoulder.\nI try to take some deep breaths and clear my mind as much as possible. It's impossible to completely clear it but I'm able to focus a little bit better now, trying to consider ways we might find out who took her and where they might be going.\n"Alright," Aizawa says with a kinder voice this time, "Let's go."\nThe same lady that greeted me originally lays wary eyes on me as we approach the desk. I guess I didn't leave much of a good impression...\n"The woman we're looking for wasn't in there," Aizawa says gravely, "We think she might've been kidnapped. Did you see this woman leaving the hotel today? It would've only been a few hours ago."\nHe shows her a picture of Aiko from my phone. One with Bento on her lap where she was smiling, saying "cheese!" when she noticed I was trying to sneak a picture. Just looking at it makes my heart ache unbearably.\nThe woman at the desk shakes her head, "No. I remember her. She just walked in and asked for a room a few days ago. Never left. We would've worried about her if she hadn't been regularly ordering room service."\nAizawa nods. "And do you have a back exit?"\n"Oh, yeah of course. It leads into the alley out back."\nMy eyes widen in realization as I watch this exchange. Aizawa was right. I should've seen this but I let my own emotions get in the way. I have to do better than this. Letting my guilt consume me isn't doing me any favors right now.\n"I assume there are cameras for that door?"\nShe nods quickly, not missing a beat, and scurrying off to get her manager.\nBarely five minutes later, we're inside a security room with multiple monitors showing a live feed of the cameras around the hotel. Thankfully she stayed somewhere nice. Their equipment here is state of the art.\nWe're watching the feed of the backdoor in reverse, trying to catch the moment she might've been taken out that way. It's the only other way they could've gone considering her room was on the fourth floor.\n"There!" I cry out as I catch a glimpse of violet hair going through the door.\nThe security guard rolls it back a little bit further as we watch two figures walking in reverse through the door. One is Aiko, looking practically dead on her feet. Anyone watching the video and not knowing better, though, might assume she was completely wasted or falling asleep. The other is a tall, slim figure in a hoodie, the hood pulled up over their head, completely obscuring all view of their hair or face or anything. They never look back or show their face to the camera as though they know it's there.\n"There's no way to tell who that is," I growl in frustration, staring fixedly at the screen as though this person might show themselves if I will it hard enough.\nAizawa seems perplexed as well, shaking his head.\n"It's probably a woman," he muses, "Just based on the gait and the frame of the person."\nThat's only a guess, though.\n"Hang on," the security guard says with a knowing look, "There's a reason I'm paid so well to work in a place like this."\nAizawa and I trade glances of unsurety as the man lifts his hand to the screen, touching the flatscreen with light fingers as his eyes seem to cloud over.\n"I can see into photos," he explains, "Anything in that photo; Anyone. I can look around it like a movie set frozen in time."\nMy eyes widen. That quirk is invaluable. I can see Aizawa is thinking the same thing. How is he not on the police force at least?\nAs though he read my mind, he says, "Cops don't pay enough. But these rich guys do if they think someone's stealing from them."\nI don't have time to judge him for that. If he's willing to help me with this, I don't care what he does with his life.\n"The pretty purple-haired girl is passed out," he informs us, "This other chick must be strong."\n"It's a woman? You're sure?" I ask, my heart rate rising.\n"Oh yeah, for sure," he confirms, "She's pretty too. What the hell? Got some hottie on hottie crimes going on in here."\n"What does she look like," Aizawa asks impatiently, his eyes narrowing at the man in front of us.\n"Well she's blonde. Long hair. She looks pissed off."\n"Anything else?" I push.\n"Um... green eyes. Super green. Scary green."\nSuddenly, a memory shakes loose in my brain as the first person that would describe pops into my head.\n"I'm not taking the fall for this..." a familiar voice said while Jared held me captive. A woman's voice.\nMy heart stops dead. Bombshell's voice...\n"Whitney," I growl out, my hand curling into a fist.\nI trusted her. She protected Aiko time and time again. How could she kidnap her now? How long has she been working with Jared and this entire trafficking ring?!\nAiko took her in, coached her, was willing to go to battle with her parents to help her. It was all a lie.\n"Let's go," I tell Aizawa, already stepping out of the security room, "We need to pay Vector a visit."\n"This late?" he asks skeptically, "He won't be asleep?"\n"Not for much longer," I quip back, earning me a sidelong glance.\nAizawa hasn't been a part of this trafficking investigation. He knows little to nothing about it considering we were trying to keep it as secret as possible to keep suspicion to a minimum. Some good that did when we had a viper in our midst all along...\nPulling out my phone, I scroll through the contacts before I get to the one I've been looking for and dial the number.\nAizawa's eyes never leave me as I listen to the phone ring back a few times before a sleepy-heavy voice answers.\n"Fat?" Suneater grumbles, confused and tired.\n"Suneater, Aiko's gone. She's been kidnapped."\nHis voice is instantly more alert, "When? How?"\n"Meet me at Vector's agency. I'll tell you everything I know there."\n"Vector's? Why him?"\nI don't answer his question. I won't until I can tell him face to face. "I really need you on this, Suneater."\nHe must hear the desperation in my voice because he doesn't ask anymore questions and just says, "Okay, Fat. I'll see you in a few."\nAiko\n"Oh thank god, you're already coming around. It must've been a lower dose," Mizuki breathes a sigh of relief as my eyes flutter open.\nI jolt, still reliving the encounter I just had with Tomoyo and Whitney. I had her...\nBut then I realize just how much worse this situation is.\n"How long have I been out?!" I ask, panic overwhelming me.\n"Only about an hour," the scaled girl supplies, "Not long. It's okay."\nKnowing the consequences of attempting to sit up again, I remain on my back, staring up at the ceiling.\nI only have until tomorrow to decide whether to let my baby be born into a life of slavery or to never give them a chance at life at all. It sickens me and shatters me all at once. How can I ever make that choice?!\nI don't even want to consider it. It makes me feel like screaming and ripping my hair out any time I even try. Why would she torture me this way?!\nThe girls watch my facial expressions morph between despair and outrage, clutching my belly as though that would do anything at all to shield my baby from this world already so dead set against their existence.\n"What- What happened?" one of them finally speaks up. I'm unsure which.\n"She's... She's gonna take my baby," I choke out, trying to hold back my tears.\nThe other girls are thunderstruck, their eyes going wide.\n"She making me choose between getting an abortion or letting her sell them separately from me."\n"Oh my god."\n"That crazy bitch!"\n"Why would she do that?!"\nThey all chime in in horror and outrage except the blue-haired girl who only watches, though her eyes seem worried.\n"We can't let her do that! We have to stop her somehow!" Mizuki cries, seeming to be the most upset of them.\n"What can we do? If we try to stop her, she'll sic Whitney or whoever is on guard on us," the dark-skinned girl says, as usual the most logical, "She knows every way to control us..."\nThe other girls look down, their own experiences of just how true that is replaying in their eyes.\n"I don't know what to do," I say quietly, turning on my side and curling myself as best as I can around my belly.\nOne of the girls- I can't see which one- puts a hand on my head and pets my hair, reminding me painfully of Taishiro. Does he know I'm missing? Would he even try to find me if he did?\nOf course he would, I chastise myself. He's a hero. No matter what he thinks about me, he'll still try to save me.\nAizawa has to have noticed something's wrong by now. That might, at the very least, mean someone knows I'm gone, might be looking for me, and might miss me. That thought gives some small shred of hope I might be rescued before tomorrow.\n"Don't do it," a small voice comes to me from across the room. It sounds like it hasn't been used in a long time.\nI look up toward where the blue-haired girl sits with her knees to her chest.\n"What?" I ask, unsure I heard her right.\n"Don't give up the baby. You want it, right?"\nI meet her eyes and they look so assured for someone who only hours ago was crying because they missed their family.\n"Yes. More than anything. I want us to be a family," I reply, my heart still aching with the thought that that might not happen regardless.\n"Then keep the baby. Don't let her scare you into an abortion. That's what she's trying to do." Even though her voice is so small, she speaks with such confidence, it feels like she's lending me some as well, "We're going to get out of here."\nThe redhead sighs, "You don't know that for sure. Don't give her false hope. It's hard enough to survive in here like it is. Can you imagine being pregnant and having to live through this?"\nThe blue-haired girl goes quiet and turns away, apparently done talking.\nThere's not much I can do in here other than talk to the other girls and try not to have to face this decision I'm being forced to make. They all have their harrowing stories of being a model, or wanting to be, and being offered a job in America only to end up here. They've seen others come and go but none of them have been here for more than a month.\nEventually I have to withstand the humiliation of having a couple girls help me get to the restroom attached to this room and back to my cot. I get a decent look around it in that time and see that it looks like those bedrooms in orphanages you see in old movies where the beds are all lined up along the walls. The only light comes from a single low wattage bulb hanging from the ceiling. It's awful down here. I don't know how any of them have stayed sane.\nAfter a few hours, most of the girls have fallen asleep and I'm just still laying on my cot, watching the lightbulb sway lightly back and forth and trying to get to a place in my head where I can even consider this decision.\nI'm starting to doze when a quiet sound reaches my ears from the direction of the door. Someone is turning the locks! But it's quiet. They don't want to be heard.\nLooking around, I see none of the other girls are awake and the noise isn't enough to wake them up.\nI lift my head and try to rise but I still get dizzy just doing that. The effect isn't as bad as it was but it still has me laying back down, watching the door with bated breath.\nWho's coming through that door? My time can't be up already. Has someone come to buy one of the girls? Could someone that secretive be trying to rescue us?\nThe door finally opens and I can barely make out a feminine figure stepping through, her footsteps light as she approaches my cot.\nWhitney stands over my bed in her hero suit, her eyes less aggressive than they have been the last few times I've seen her.\nMaybe I was wrong after all. Maybe my time is up now. Do I really need to make that choice already?!\nShe crouches down, her voice hushed to keep from waking the others. "Tomoyo is gone for now. She's setting up your auction. She'll be back in a few hours."\n"Why are you doing this?" I immediately demand, also keeping my voice low. If one of the other girls wakes up, I have no doubt she wouldn't hesitate to forcefully put them back down. "I thought... we were friends."\nHer green eyes harden at my frankness. "We were never friends. I was doing a job."\n"You lied to me," I hiss, sending a glare her way, "Everything you told me about your family was a lie."\n"Not everything," She shakes her head, though her voice is more like she's informing me rather than justifying, "They did pressure me. It was too much to bear. But Tomoyo found me. When I was still in high school, she approached me about being a model and when I told her I couldn't and about my family's pressures, she offered me a different kind of job and it was easy at first. Monitor the heroes and let her know when they were getting too suspicious and then I would just convince some other girls to go off to America."\n"Didn't you know what she was doing to them? Don't you want to stop it?"\nShe blinks at me, "Do you not see that if it weren't me doing this it'd be someone else? If I don't work for her anymore or try to stop her, what do you think will happen to me? What do you think has happened to anyone else?"\nI think about Jared and that last, chilling phone call.\n"Did... did you kill Jared? Do you know who did?" I ask, afraid to really know the answer. I'm not sure if I want to know if she's a murderer on top of being a trafficker.\n"No," she replies hastily, "I've never killed anyone, although... I did threaten him. Tomoyo was furious when he took you and we were all ordered to kill him on sight. I found him in a safe house and I just... didn't. I told him to get lost. She ordered me to kill Sakuya too if she knew anything. But luckily she didn't ."\nI remember her being nervous at that meeting and thinking it was odd. Now I know why.\n"I don't hate this job, though. At least I didn't until..." she sighs heavily and leaves that sentence unfinished. "I wasn't a good hero. I never wanted to be one. I really did want to be a model."\nA sneer comes to my lips at that.\n"Don't kid yourself. You couldn't make it as a hero, not because you wanted to be a model. It's because you're a villain. And now you're going to take everything that I have left in this shitty world because you're a villain. Fuck you. You don't deserve Tamaki. You'll never deserve a beautiful soul like him." I spit at her and she backs away from me, trying to hide the fact that my words have hit her low. I can still see the shame in her eyes, though.\nDid she really care about Tamaki? What a fucking joke if she did. What did she think the outcome of stabbing us all in the back would be?\n"I didnt... Why didn't you tell me the reason she was upset was because you told her you're pregnant?"\nI roll my eyes. "Would that have changed anything?"\nShe thinks for a moment. "I don't know. But we've never taken a girl we've known was pregnant before."\nShe looks at my stomach as though she might actually be able to see the baby there and she forgets to school her worried expression.\n"Does Fat Gum-senpai know?"\nMy head snaps toward her, my teeth bared in outrage. "You don't get to call him that anymore."\nShe doesn't look wounded at my response, instead seeming to consider it and agree.\n"He doesn't know," I answer with hateful eyes, "I was afraid to tell him. I wasn't sure if I wanted to... have it. But arguing with Tomoyo made me realize I did. I was on my way to tell him when the thing with Kenji happened and now... he'll never know. So tell Tomoyo thanks for that."\nWhitney looks down at her hand resting on my tiny cot. "I'm still pretty sure she didn't do that. She... made sure that your protection was my highest priority after Jared took you. Her intention was only ever to protect you. It still is even now."\n"How is this protecting me? She's taking my baby!" I say, my voice getting a little too loud and I quiet when one of the girls shifts.\n"Her idea of protecting you is different from yours. She has to sell you now that people know you're retired but she'll make sure it's someone who doesn't abuse their girls. Maybe you'd end up as someone's pretty housewife or something. That's the best she can do."\n"No," I shake my head, closing my eyes against the heart-shattering decision I still have to face, "The best she could do is stop this. Don't take my baby. They're all I have left."\nI hate how my lips turn down and my eyes fill with tears as I try to shield my stomach once more.\nWhitney turns away, shadowing her expression. "Well... I'll be back in the afternoon. Tomoyo will want an answer then."\nMy jaw clenches but I don't answer her as she stands and heads toward the door.\nOnly after she's gone, the locks all back in place, that I realize she never really said what she was here for in the first place.\nFat Gum\nSuneaters face is white as a sheet as we sit in what seems to be a conference room that Vector has provided us with.\n"You're sure? It was Whitney?"\nLeMillion, who Suneater also called to help, has an infuriated gleam in his eye. "I knew she was bad news. Even from the start, I always thought it was weird she never tried to draw attention to herself at the exams."\n"But... we don't know that," Suneater is uncomfortable about speaking up but he still pushes, "What if she's been hypnotized or brainwashed or is being blackmailed."\n"That's possible," Aizawa agrees, "But for now, if we find her, we will likely find Aiko and that's what we should focus on."\nMyself and the other two nod in agreement, though each of our faces express our apprehension.\nVector's smooth, pattering footsteps (if one were to be so bold as to call them that) are heard as he is brought through the door on those invisible appendages of his. I've known him for quite a long time he's been a hero for longer than I have so it strikes me as near impossible for him to have been a part of this. I can't allow that to rule him out, though. We still need to be cautious.\n"Sorry about that," he says courteously, "It is a rather late hour. I needed some coffee."\n"Vector," I begin, as calmly as possible, "Do you know anything at all about what Bombshell has been doing these past few months?"\nHe looks around at us quizzically as he takes a seat. "I hear back from her often enough. I get reports from her about the things she's finding out. It sounded like she might've found someone in the ring and she's trying to get close to them."\nWe all look at each other, probably thinking the same thing, as that information settles. But that wouldn't make sense to me. Whitney has put Aiko in danger for the sake of the investigation before, sure, but she made sure it was controlled and she always let everyone else in on the operation. If she needed Aiko for something secretive, she would want to make sure we were aware so we weren't running after her, asking questions like we're doing now. It's different this time. She's acting on her own. We can't assume she's friendly.\n"Do you have those reports?" Aizawa asks.\n"And, in the meantime, do you know where she lived? We're going to need to search her apartment," I add.\nVector looks completely baffled, "What's all this about? What's happened?"\n"We think she's in danger. We think Aiko may be as well," I feed him our predetermined excuse.\nHe looks far more disturbed now, "Both of them? You think they got too deep into the trafficking ring?"\n"That could be," Aizawa answers and, although he wasn't initially part of this investigation, Vector doesn't question his presence. Not many would question Eraserhead getting involved in their investigation.\n"I'll get you what I can," he says, rising once more and hurrying away.\nI'm so thankful to everyone who understands the urgency of this situation and not hesitating or asking unnecessary questions. It gives me just a little more hope that we may yet find Aiko.\nSuneater and LeMillion stay behind to peruse the reports while Aizawa and I head out to Whitney's apartment.\nIt's a surprisingly lush place for what sidekicks can usually afford. Maybe her family pitches in to help with her rent?\nEverything seems rather orderly and well-kept. Her bed is made, her fridge is well-stocked, all of her remotes are properly placed on her TV stand. Nothing here indicates a woman doing evil things for a trafficking ring.\n"Well let's get started," Aizawa says, "I'll check her desk for anything. You go look in the closets."\nWe separate and I go about opening her linen closet and feeling between the bedding for anything amiss, then I go to her clothing closet and check any shelves and cubbies there.\nNothing.\n"I found some sort of compression tool," Aizawa calls from the living room, "There's some kind of powdery substance-"\n"Yeah, don't touch it," I warn him, recalling how she knocked out Sakuya, "It's a strong sedative."\nHe's quiet again, probably going back to his search.\nThe powder is probably how she knocked Aiko out, I realize. It brings me a small amount of relief knowing that, honestly. At least she didn't bash her over the head or choke her out or anything.\nLooking around her bedroom, I wonder to myself where she might hide anything relevant to what she's been doing in secret to lead her to kidnap Aiko. If she's any good at this at all, she probably hasn't left any clues. But she's still practically a kid, it seems so unlikely she wouldn't slip up somehow.\nMy eyes land on her dresser and I blanche, remembering Aiko's letter to me that she hid in her underwear drawer.\nMaybe...\nI swallow thickly, feeling extremely uncomfortable about rooting through a girl's underwear drawer without permission. What if Aizawa walked in on me doing that?\nBut I steel myself and reach for the drawers. She might be counting on that discomfort and deeply ingrained sense of propriety.\nThe top three drawers are full of sweaters and pants from the winter months. I search them but there's nothing. The bottom drawer is where I find her underwear. None of it is as flashy as Aiko's even though she's been doing this modeling thing for a little while now. All of them are white, black, or flesh colored and cut in a practical way, not meant to impress anyone.\nBut at the bottom of the drawer, my hand touches a little rectangular shape, not all too thick, and I wrap my hand around it to pull it out and inspect.\nIt's a book; a small, sparse monthly planner.\nOpening it up, it only takes me turning a few pages before I call Aizawa into the room.\nBarely an hour later, Aizawa, Suneater, LeMillion, and I are all on the train speeding toward Tokyo. We left Vector behind to summon the troops to keep checking around Osaka but I'm so sure this is the way they came. I can feel it.\nThat planner was full of appointments and while they just seemed like the kind of appointments any young, aspiring model would be making, phrases just kept popping up that seemed so odd. I've seen Aiko's planner before. Albeit far more decorated, she never had as many appointments for fittings and screen tests.\nAnd one name popped up in there far more than others. A name I recognized. Ueda, the head of their modeling agency.\nThe reports Suneater and LeMillion went through mention someone she was getting close to but never give a name. It makes it seem more like they were just shams, written up to hand something in while directing attention away from anyone actually important.\nIs Ueda the one behind all of this? Or is he just another creep who wanted Aiko to himself and somehow bribed Whitney into kidnapping Aiko? I don't know but it seems like Whitney's relationship with him has gone on practically since she first met him.\nSo that's where we're headed. To see him and try to wring some answers out of him.\nI'm coming Aiko. I'll save you, sweetheart. I'm so sorry I let you down again. I'm so sorry for all of this.\n"Fat," Aizawa says, coming to take a seat next to me, "I think you should get some rest. You've been up since early this morning, right?"\nI'm startled to find that he's right. I haven't slept since Aiko's call this morning. It seems like such a long time ago now. If only I'd spoken a little sooner. If only I'd called her back...\n"Yeah," I answer lifelessly, "But I... don't think I can, Zawa. I can't sleep until she's safe."\nThe haggard looking man next to me pats my shoulder. "I understand how you feel, Fat, but remember how things went last time. You need to be at 100% to save her. You can't flag when the time comes to get her out."\nI look down at my hands resting in my lap. It seems like sleep would be impossible but there is nothing else to do but worry myself into a frenzy on this train ride.\n"We can't even see this guy until the agency opens anyway. It'll be hours before then so relax and I'll wake you when we get into the station and get a car, okay?"\nI want to argue. I want to go beat that guy's door down and demand he tell me everything. But we still don't know to what extent he's involved and if he has her and he panics, who knows what he'll do? If we catch him while he's at his office, in a relatively public place, we can get answers from him in a safer, more contained environment.\nIt kills me to have to wait. I'm not a patient person, especially considering Aiko might be suffering. Even when I'm not thinking of how much she hurt me, I feel out of control. That's just what her not being here with me does to me. She's... the light of my life.\n"Okay," I sigh, pushing back my hood to run a hand through my hair, "I'll take a nap. Just let me know if anything happens, okay?"\nAizawa nods and pats my shoulder again before rising.\nI just lean my head against the window, listening to my own breaths and trying to ignore the intense squeezing in my chest as I watch the scenery go by. It doesn't take long before I doze off, my body submitting to my exhaustion.\nThe sun is just starting to rise as we make our way into Aiko and Whitney's modeling agency. For once, I'm thankful for the early hours a lot of these people keep. They're clearly believers in "the early bird gets the worm."\nThe building is only a few stories tall and is furnished in a very modern industrial way that practically shouts "I have a sense of style!" like it has something to prove. The walls are lined with huge editorial photos of different models, all sporting different outfits, from maternity wear to tuxedos.\nAs though it were a magnet, my eyes are drawn to a photo of Aiko as we make our way down the hall and I stop in front of it.\nShe's in a lacy set of lavender lingerie that stands out starkly against her tan skin and makes her eyes shine as she stares into the camera with a sensually confident expression and her tail curves loosely at her thigh.\nIt reminds me of the night I met her, the way she was so sure of herself and pushed me to feel more confident with what I wanted to do with her. She never stopped pushing me. She always encouraged me to play out my every fantasy and desire with her. How could someone who wanted someone else do that? It doesn't make sense.\n"Fat," Suneater's indigo eyes are kind and also somewhat emotional as he approaches me, "I want to find her too. Let's keep going. She's gonna be okay."\nTurning away from her photo now, I nod and we continue our trek to the elevators in a little more subdued mood.\nThere are only a few offices for the higher-ups on the top floor of the building and each of them are labeled with the title of whose office it is.\nSuneater and LeMillion wait outside in the hallway to waylay any other visitors and Aizawa and I head straight into the door labeled CEO.\nInside, a woman sits at a desk in a waiting room just in front of another door that has a large window with which we can see through to a rather handsome older man working at his own desk.\nWhen the woman looks up from her computer, her eyes widen infinitesimally.\n"H-Hello sirs," she greets nervously, "Do you have an appointment with Ueda-san today?"\n"No," Aizawa cuts to the chase, "I am Eraserhead and this is Fat Gum. We're heroes. We're here about an urgent matter and we need to speak with him immediately."\nHer expression is one of slight panic, as though she's afraid she's the one in trouble with the heroes in front of her but she just nods with acceptance, quickly turning to rap on the door behind her.\n"Ueda-san, there are heroes here to see you," she says when she cracks the door open.\nThe man looks up at us and a small amount of recognition crosses his face when his eyes land on me. We've briefly met before after all.\nHe waves us in, looking not at all nervous, just a little confused.\n"What brings you in today, gentlemen?" he asks with a completely oblivious smile.\n"I'm looking for Aiko," I say immediately, planting my hands on his desk and leaning over it somewhat menacingly, "Where is she?"\nHis brow furrows and he does seem a bit more worried now, although that could very well be due to my imposing demeanor. "Aiko? Well, she called to say she was retiring a couple days ago. I... don't know where she is now. Why? Did something happen?"\n"Wouldn't you know?" I growl, feeling heat course throughout my body as I stare the man down. Why is he trying to look so innocent?!\nThere is definite fear in his voice now as he responds, "N- No, I haven't seen her in a long while. Is she hurt? What-"\n"She's missing! She's been kidnapped and all the evidence we have so far leads to you. So you need to start talking because police will be at your house to search it in only a few minutes. You should tell us what we're going to find there before it's too late."\nHis face goes white and he pulls at his tie to loosen it as his pupils shrink. "B-but I didn't..."\nAizawa's been quiet this whole time as his eyes shift occasionally out the door. I hardly even notice him step quietly away as I continue questioning the man sitting behind the desk.\n"The last time I talked to her, she told me she was retiring and that's it! I don't have her! I don't know where she is!"\n"And you haven't seen Whitney? Haven't spoken to her at all?"\n"W-Whitney? Her protege? No! Not at all! I haven't spoken to her since the day we accepted her at the agency!" Now Ueda seems frightened out of his mind.\nNone of this makes sense, though. There was note after note on her calendar of a meeting with Ueda here, a shoot at his request there. And now he's saying they haven't even spoken?\nAizawa's hand motioning at the door has me focusing my attention on him as he waves me over.\nI'm about to say something but his finger goes over his lips to shush me.\nHe points back at Ueda who still seems frazzled and is now confused about our actions.\nHe wants me to keep him talking.\n"Then please explain why she has meetings set up with you on a practically weekly basis," I ask, conveying to him with my eyes that I expect him to keep going while I turn to watch Aizawa, who seems to be observing the secretary.\n"I-I don't know! I never talk to the girl! I knew Aiko was the person who recommended her but the only person who really does anything with her schedule is Tomoyo-"\n"Interesting," Aizawa finally speaks up at the doorway, he's speaking to the secretary who jumps when she hears him and goes pale, "that you're calling someone named 'babysitter' in your phone when there are no pictures of children anywhere on your desk."\nShe has her bluetooth headset in while her cell phone does indeed show that it's calling the contact "babysitter." She looks like a fish struggling out of water, her mouth opening and closing.\nLeaving Ueda to watch in complete bafflement, I stride in her direction. Her eyes go wide, horror shining there.\nReaching past her, I simply tap the speaker button on the phone still in the midst of calling "babysitter."\nAfter a few more ringbacks, a woman's hardened voice picks up.\n"What is it?"\nThat sure doesn't sound like a babysitter.\nAizawa waves his hand toward the phone as if to say "by all means, please continue."\nThe woman at the desk is staring slack-jawed at him but startles once more when I place a hand at the back of her chair, squeezing the leather tightly, my eyes boring into her.\nShe's trembling when she says quietly, "Th-there are heroes here. They're looking for Aiko... and Whitney. They said Aiko is missing. Did you know-"\nThe woman on the other end scoffs. "Yes I know. I took her. I had to because you decided you should jump the gun and start telling people about her retiring without my go-ahead."\nMy breath catches in my throat as my heart begins to beat wildly. This woman, whoever she is, has her. Then what was all of the evidence pointing to Ueda?\nShe winces. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean-"\n"Who are the heroes?" the sharp voice on the other end says.\n"I- I think they said... um..." Aizawa nods, giving her permission to tell the truth "Eraserhead a-and Fat Gum."\nAn exasperated sigh comes from the speaker, "Of course. I expected as much. I didn't think he'd give up on her when she's knocked up with his kid."\nTime stops. It feels like the floor has disappeared from under me and I'm just falling and falling with no end in sight. I'm not quite sure I'm even breathing right now. Aiko is... is...\nI hear a snap and look to see the chair back I've been holding has been crushed under my grip, stuffing and wooden splinters spilling between my fingers.\nThe woman's face turns so white, her freckles stand out starkly against it.\nAizawa doesn't move.\n"Sh-she's pr-pregnant?" The girl asks, her terrified eyes only focusing on me now.\n"Unfortunately," the voice answers, completely oblivious to the bomb she's just dropped on this room, "but, with any luck she won't be much longer. She's so fucking insistent on keeping it though."\nThe chair cracks further as my breathing begins to pick up. Aiko... A baby... My baby... Our baby...\nTears are forming in the woman's eyes now as I glower down at her. I don't know how my face looks but it must be horrifying. Any control I thought I had is gone. All I can see is Aiko's crying face begging me not to kick her out; begging for forgiveness.\n"T-Tomo-" the girl begins, then cuts herself off, slapping a hand over her mouth.\nTomo... TOMOYO! Fury blazes through my body. I'll kill her. I know I shouldn't think that but... Aiko... She's pregnant and she knows and she's trying to force her to terminate it and I'll absolutely kill her if she hurts her.\n"Why do you sound so scared, Inko?" Tomoyo's voice asks, annoyed more than suspicious.\nThe girl's eyes finally slide to Aizawa's again, swallowing thickly, "I-I just don't know what to do. I'm s-scared."\nTomoyo is clearly not pleased. "We've been over this. If heroes are there then they're falling for the red herring and going exactly where we want them to. They suspect Ueda. Do everything you can to point the finger at him. It'll be fine."\n"R-right, I'm sorry," tears begin rolling down her cheeks.\nI think I might actually be losing it. I don't know what's keeping me from grabbing that phone from her and demanding where she is. I never thought I could hate someone as much as I hate that woman.\nAizawa lays a gentle hand at the wrist of my hand still decimating that chair and my eyes fly to him. His expression is stern; warning. He shakes his head.\n"Keep your shit together, Inko" Tomoyo's voice is rife with threat, "You know what'll happen if you don't."\n"Y-yes," the girl blusters, "I'm sorry I-"\nThe line goes dead and the room descends into silence.\n"Where. Is. She," I say quietly, trying to calm my breathing.\n"I don't know! She doesn't tell me-"\nI lift a hand to quiet her and she flinches away. "You're going to tell me or-"\n"Fat," Aizawa's hand tightens on my wrist, "this isn't how we do things."\nI glare at him, my eyes wild with all of the rage I can barely contain and he meets my stare. For once, it doesn't seem as calm as it usually is. There is anger in his eyes as well but he's doing a far better job of keeping himself in control.\n"She has Aiko," I grit out.\n"I know."\n"And she's-" I have to let out a short breath of despair, "She's pregnant, Zawa. She's..."\n"I know," he says, his voice becoming warmer, trying to comfort me, "But this girl can't help us. You know they keep most people in the dark. She doesn't know where she is."\nWith a cry of rage I release the girl's chair and she just shrinks away, sobbing, "I'm gonna die. I'm gonna die."\n"You're not gonna die," Aizawa assures her stiffly, "If you help us, we'll take her down and the rest of this ring with her."\n"H-How?" she stares up at him with wide, wet eyes.\n"First of all," he picks up her phone, "With this. You're going to give us every contact that you have in this ring."\n"I-I don't know many people! I just mostly vet the girls and suggest them to Tomoyo! I just knew one person who was interested in Aiko and I knew Tomoyo's deal with them and... I didn't think it would happen like this! I didn't know she was pregnant! You have to believe me!"\n"What deal?" I ask her darkly, my chest starting to become numb with all of the emotions running through my body.\nShe explains briefly about Tomoyo assuring their "customers" that Aiko would only be available after she retired and every moment my heart grows heavier and heavier. Oh Aiko... Jared told her she was valuable to them...\n"I think you might need to sit down, Fat," Aizawa suggests, looking troubled as he watches me.\n"No, I need to find Aiko!" I snap, "She's gonna sell her! She's gonna-"\nI punch the wall, tearing a hole clean through to the other side and startling Ueda in his office.\n"Fat!" Suneater and Mirio enter the office, their eyes wide with concern, "What's going on?"\nI don't know where to start. I don't know what to say. I don't know how to keep going. All I can think of is how much she's suffering. How terrified she must be. I need to get to her now!\n"Fat," Suneater says again, approaching me cautiously, his eyes filled with intense worry.\nHe's never looked at me this way before. He's always looked at me with admiration or exasperation or understanding. But this... I really am losing it if he's looking at me this way.\n"I can't lose her," I tell him, my face crumpling as I slide down the wall to take a heavy seat on the floor, "I was gonna be dad. She said she didn't want kids but she's fighting to keep our baby..."\nSilence, in which I can only imagine the three of them exchange glances, follows.\nSuneater doesn't know how to comfort me. He doesn't know what to say and I don't blame him. Nothing he can say will make anything better. It won't bring her back.\n"We won't give up, Fat," Aizawa offers up, "We've got these contacts from this girl and that's at least somewhere we can start."\n"Oh I might have a better place you can start," a woman's voice says, stepping through the doorway, past LeMillion.\n"Ryuku," Aizawa says and my head snaps up at the name of the dragoon hero, "What's going on? What the hell are you doing here?"\n"What do you mean 'there's a better place we can start'?" I cut in, trying to quell the hopefulness growing within me.\nThe blonde woman's amber eyes meet mine, shining with empathy and she gives me an encouraging smile. "I don't think finding you guys here was a coincidence."\nAiko\nThe locks on the door clatter open, much louder this time than last night and they startle me out of my sleep.\nLooking around, I see that the other girls are already awake, watching the door with apprehension as they huddle around me.\nThe sun is coming through the window at an angle that makes me think it's far past sunrise. I hardly got any sleep last night. Could it already be afternoon?!\nThe door swings open to reveal Whitney, her calm, vaguely irritated mask back in place and, behind her, Tomoyo, dressed in a fresh pantsuit. She steps in and I notice there are men outside the door as well. They seem pretty unsavory with the way they're leering at us.\nMy heart springs to life, racing a thousand miles an hour as her eyes fall on me. I still haven't decided! I can't do this! I can't do this!\nMy whole body is trembling and I just don't know what to do anymore! Why does this have to happen?! Where is the justice in anything?!\nA hand lands in my own, curling thin fingers around mine in a tight grip that's much stronger than I expected from one of these girls.\nI look up to see it's the blue-haired girl. She's moved from her cot for once and is among the others at my bedside.\n"We're moving you all. Something's come up and it looks like we're gonna need to take a trip somewhere a little more remote," she smiles in that fake syrupy smile of hers that makes me sick. She never smiled that way or talked to me like this when she was just my manager. Why does she behave so differently now?\n"I've got a van in the garage big enough for everyone to sit comfortably. So, Aiko, since you're the one who's incapacitated, you'll come first and you can tell me what you've decided on the way."\nMy breaths pick up and I squeeze hard on the hand holding mine. It must be painful but the girl makes no sound and doesn't let me go until Whitney moves toward me and forces the girls to part with a glare.\nShe puts her hands under my armpits and lifts me from the bed as though I were a giant child.\nI brace myself for the spinning room and complete loss of balance.\nBut it doesn't come. The world doesn't move around me. I feel stable. I feel... fine. Hungry and nauseous, as I commonly do in the mornings, but otherwise I don't feel bad at all.\nI throw a glance her way as she puts her arm under my wings and slings my arm around her shoulders, still holding me as though I'm unable to move. But when her vivid green eyes meet mine in what, to anyone else would look like a glare, but to me is a look of knowing.\nShe knows the drug has worn off. That was what she'd been in here to do last night. Readminister the sedative to last through the morning. And she never did.\n"This is your only chance," her eyes seem to say, "Don't waste it."\nI allow her to haul me up and out through the door, taking the lead in a procession of the other girls who trail behind us, all looking weak and exhausted.\nWe head up the stairs and through the well-furnished house. I feel so out of place, looking and smelling disgusting as I do as I'm dragged over the pristine carpet.\nTomoyo sighs as we make our way into the living room, only feet from the garage.\n"I'll get you cleaned up after we get out of town," she says to me, picking up a piece of my hair as though it were a nasty worm, "Then I have a few people who are interested in seeing you before the bidding starts. Can you believe people think you might've gotten too old? What a bunch of idiots."\nShe turns away from me again.\n"But before all that, let's decide what we're going to do with that baby, hm? Maybe we'll auction it off at the same time. People might want the pair of you, you never know. I doubt it, though. People who want babies don't usually want the moms too."\nMy body goes rigid as hatred, so pure and wild, spikes through my veins. Every part of me tenses with unrestrained fury.\nWhitney's grip on me tightens as if to say "Let it go. Not now."\nBut I can hardly feel it as claws start to extend from my fingers and I feel horns beginning to poke from my forehead.\n"You're..." I breathe heavily through my rage, "not... getting... my baby."\nTomoyo faces me once more, still not realizing that my eyes aren't glazed over with the drug she thinks I'm on. "Is that a vote for terminating? We're getting rid of it after all? Probably the smart move. Who knows what people want would want to do with-"\nA wholly inhumane sound erupts from my throat as I push Whitney away, though she still tries to hold fast.\nThe blond girl hits the floor as I hurl myself at Tomoyo, sinking my claws deep into her shoulders causing her to cry out in pain.\n"YOU'RE NOT GETTING MY BABY!" I roar at her as we topple to the ground.\n"Whitney!" Tomoyo howls, her eyes wide with shock and fear.\nFear... I scent it on her now, cold and bitter, and Tomoyo shrieks again in agony, trying to push me away as I sink my teeth into her and pull on that spiking fear with all of my might.\nThe initial shock passing, Whitney tries to scramble to her feet as the men come racing toward us but both are stopped.\nThe men, bombarded by the other girls who claw and bite at them, some of them activating their quirks despite them mostly being non-combative.\nWhitney is thrown back down to the floor by a spiraling wave of light issued from the blue haired girl who no longer looks so weak or scared or lonely.\n"I'm so glad we can finally meet like this," the blue-haired girl grins with delight, "Suneater is too dear to me to let you hurt him."\nFat Gum\n"This is where her signal was lost," Ryukyu halts at the entrance to a rather sizeable upscale neighborhood in Shinjuku, "They're functioning out of one of these houses. It has to be here."\nOn our way here, Ryukyu explained that a group of heroes in Tokyo as well as in Kyoto have also been investigating this ring. It seems they move from place to place every so often when authorities start catching wind of missing girls and we've only just noticed now as we never really shared this information from city to city, thinking it was exclusive to us.\nHer sidekick, Nejire-Chan, took a similar approach to us, infiltrating the system and was captured pretty quickly.\n"We were lucky she's been sloppy. She didn't plan Aiko's kidnapping well. I think she did it on the fly," Aizawa considers, scratching at the stubble on his chin as we make our way down the tree-lined street.\n"Why? She's been beyond careful up until now. She cleans up her messes thoroughly. Just look at Jared. We still don't know where his body is. And Sakuya... I think the only reason she's even still alive is that she doesn't know anything."\nAizawa watches the passersby as he considers. "Aiko. She's special to her in some way. I don't know what way that is yet but she's tripped up this much because of Aiko. From what you've told me, every time something went wrong for her, it was because of Aiko."\nI open my mouth to respond but a loud boom shakes the ground, sending people fleeing and screaming.\nOnly a few blocks away, a cloud of smoke begins billowing up from one of the houses and the group of us Ryukyu, Aizawa, Suneater, LeMillion, and myself set at a dead sprint toward it.\nAiko's in there. I'm sure of it. I don't know what just happened. I don't know if she's okay or not but I race toward her like my life depends on it.\nI will save her this time. And then I'll never let her go again.\n

Chapter 32:\nThe flavor of Tomoyo's fear is comparable to black licorice. It's, unsurprisingly, disgusting.\nDespite that, her energy flows into me in a rush, strengthening my muscles and refilling my energy stores.\nAs before, I can feel my wings begin to grow as they spread behind me. But, all too quickly, the energy flow ebbs and dies.\nWhat the hell is going on?\nDid I- Did I kill her? So quickly? Have I become that powerful?\nNo... All Might, I wish that were the case.\nWith a strength I would've never guessed she was capable of, Tomoyo grips my neck, nearly choking me, and throws me off of her, practically across the room.\nMy wings fan out, catching at the air and steadying me as I land a few feet away in a crouch.\nTomoyo sits up, rubbing at her neck over an already purpling blotch where I bit her.\n"What the hell is wrong with you?!" she yells at me.\nI don't answer, just jump for her again, claws extended. But she's ready this time, rolling back to kick upward and forcing me to shield myself, lest I want to be kicked in the stomach.\nI land a few feet back again, crouching as my hatred continues to burn.\nI'm aware of other things going on around me- Whitney and the blue-haired girl fighting, the other girls still attacking the men who are struggling but slowly gaining an upper hand in their battle.\nBut I don't have time to worry about them right now. I can't help them as Tomoyo rises from the floor, her eyes practically glowing with rage. In fact, they are glowing. What looks like heat waves ripple from her as her spine straightens.\n"So that's how your quirk works," she says in a hateful tone and I see multiple pointed teeth have appeared in her mouth, "You try to steal my energy? Well things aren't gonna go your way, Aiko."\nA sleek, black tail, spear tipped and sharply pointed unfurls from around her waist, snapping with anger. Her own set of razor sharp claws, longer and thinner than my own, protrude from her fingertips like giant needles. And horns like a goat's jut out from her forehead and curve back.\nI'm stunned for a split second. Tomoyo... has a demon quirk. It's not the same as mine but still... I've never met another demon quirk user. Why did she never tell me?\n"I told you I protected you. I told you you were dear to me. Why do you think that was?"\n"You're... You're like me?" I shake my head in disbelief, "And you never told me?"\nShe rolls her eyes. "Clearly not exactly like you."\n"Are we-"\n"Related? Christ, Aiko. You're really that desperate, aren't you? No. I'm not some long lost aunt or some bullshit. I'm a demon quirk. You're a demon quirk. I protected you because I got too soft for a girl with a similar quirk. That's it. Case closed."\nDisappointment pricks at me momentarily until I realize I shouldn't be disappointed at all. I should be grateful. This woman is a monster. Why would I want a relative like her?\n"So why would you want me to get rid of my baby?" I ask her pleadingly, "They could be like us."\n"Because I care about you, Aiko. Not what some little cluster of cells might be one day. All I know is it'll ruin your life," she says as though she's the one being reasonable and I'm the insane one, "I'm not going to stand by and watch you throw everything away just to become an average housewife with extra weight she can't shed around the middle and a gaggle of kids pulling at your skirts."\n"So you sell me?! How is that not ruining my life?!" I yell at her.\n"I didn't want to sell you! How many times do I have to tell you that?! You forced me into it by leaving!"\nI shake my head, readying my claws by curling and uncurling my fingers. "Have you ever stopped to ask what I want?! What if I want that gaggle of children? What if I intended to work and have a family?"\nHer claws recede slightly as she speaks with me. "What you want isn't always what's best for you, Aiko."\nHer words hit me right in the chest because, in a way, she's right. I haven't always wanted what was best for me. And maybe this having this baby isn't exactly best for me from her point of view. But they're here now. It's too late to worry about that. It's not just about what's best for me anymore.\nThe girls aren't faring well against the men anymore. Their quirks are overpowering them and it horrifies me to find that a couple of them have even fallen away, injured and unable to fight any longer.\n"Stop hurting the girls. You're damaging the merchandise!" Tomoyo snaps at them, "Just tie them up for fuck's-"\nI take my moment to fly into her again, swiping at her with my claws. She notices and dodges just in time, though.\n"I don't want to have to hurt you, Aiko," she says with a dangerous calm, "But if you keep trying to attack me, I will fight back."\n"You're an old cow," I goad her, "As if you could do anything."\nThe jab must've been the wrong move because her eyes glow brighter and her claws extend once more. Are they reacting to her mood? Or is she just utilizing her quirk in tandem with it?\n"You're just as much of a little bitch as you ever were."\n"Just like you taught me," I snap back.\nWith those claws of hers so long, her reach is longer than my own and I'll be hard pressed to deal damage to her now that she's giving me her full attention.\nA spiraling shockwave shoots over our heads and I hear the blue-haired girl and Whitney straining with the effort of their fight.\nI spare just a second to glance over at them. Whitney is back on her feet and throwing all manner of items I can't begin to recognize at the other girl, who deflects them deftly before they explode. Occasionally, they get near enough to trade blows but end up jumping back eventually. Both girls are more ranged fighters than close-up.\nBut just this momentary distraction was all Tomoyo needed as she darts toward me, fast as lightning and grabs me by the throat.\nI thought this woman was middle-aged? The way she moves and the way she grips my throat with just one hand, cutting off my oxygen, makes her seem far younger than that.\nShe doesn't give me a chance to swipe for her before she throws me to the ground, sending pain ricocheting throughout my body.\n"Aiko!" one of the girls yells. I think it's Mizuki.\nAll the air's been knocked from my lungs and I struggle to find that breath again.\nI've never really fought someone before. I've never had a reason to. Now I have no choice. I have to fight for my life for my baby's life or both will be over.\nTomoyo stands over me, looking mildly irritated. Her claws shrink again watching me I gasp on the ground. She has to duck suddenly when Whitney shatters a table with her quirk, sending pieces flying around the room like huge quills thrown from a porcupine.\n"Watch what you're doing, you idiot!" She barks at the girl who barely spares her a glance before dodging more spiraling waves from the blue-haired girl who doesn't seem to have been affected by the explosion at all but the power of her waves seems to be waning a bit.\nThere is a part of me who wants to know who this girl really is. She knows Tamaki. Is she a hero? Is she yet another Tamaki admirer?\nBut I can't consider this for long when I see Tomoyo is distracted, the same as I was, and I seize my chance\nGrabbing for her leg, I wrench her foot from beneath her, sending her sprawling on the floor with an "oof".\nWe wrestle for a moment, which is more of a struggle than I would've anticipated. She's so much stronger than I thought. I have to exert far more energy just to try and keep up.\nHer claws have grown again and it's a constant additional worry having to keep them from clawing me. Why do they keep lengthening and retracting?\nI'm able to grab hold of her wrists, pinning them to the floor as I sit astride her.\nFury burns hot in her gaze as she writhes beneath me, trying to reach me with her claws, teeth bared.\n"You won't get my baby," I say again, "I'll kill you before I let you have them."\n"And I'd rather see you die than squander your beauty and talent," she hisses in return, "So who's going to be the one who gets their way?"\nIn a way, Tomoyo is just as sick and obsessed with me as Jared was. She has an ideal me in her head and won't accept me being any other way. She was more okay with me sleeping around and being emotionally withdrawn than seeing me in a healthy relationship and flourishing because back then I was still living up to her ideals.\n"Tomoyo!" A man's voice sounds and now I see at least five more men racing toward us from somewhere else in the house.\nShitshitshit! We're outnumbered now and I panic as I see the newcomers rushing in. There's no way we can fight them off now! I have to try and end this as quickly as possible.\nTomoyo gasps in pain when my claws dig into her as I lean in to bite her once more. I'll make her feel fear. I'll force her to face her own mortality.\nBut she's ready and jerks her head forward, headbutting me and forcing me to loosen my grip.\nIt's all she needs to gain the upper hand as she shoves me back and rises, stepping on one of my wrists.\nPain jolts through my wrist and I cry out, tears coming to my eyes as I try to claw her leg but am only kicked away.\nThe men have arrived now, snatching up the girls and stymying the last of the fight in them.\nMy heart sinks as I watch the girls being rounded up and forced into submission. Was all of this fight for nothing? Have I ruined our chance at escape?\nI hear a scream like a warcry peal from Whitney's throat as the very same glass-topped table I'd sat at yesterday goes flying through the air toward the blue-haired girl and shatters, sending shards in every direction.\nSome catch the men who've just walked in, and a couple of them collapse on the spot dead or just severely injured I'm unsure. Most of the girls hid behind the men or furniture, others just lay on their stomachs, covering their necks. The blue-haired girl easily deflects anything that was coming toward her with her quirk, though she's panting heavily now and looks like she might be unable to fight for much longer.\nMeanwhile, Whitney, while still tired, doesn't look quite as winded. She might end up winning this fight.\nI do my best to roll to my side and cover myself with my wings as shards of glass rain down on me. My wrist screams in pain the whole time but I fight through, determined to survive.\nWhen I uncover my eyes after the last of the pieces fall, I see Tomoyo still standing above me but gigantic black and red wings like my own have sprouted from her back and cocoon her, keeping her mostly safe.\nShe pulls them back after a second and looks surprisingly shocked as though she's just been slapped in the face.\nThen her rage returns as she turns toward Whitney again to shout another insult but she never gets the chance.\nI'm not quite sure what Whitney's thrown toward the blue-haired girl this time but she sends her shockwaves spiraling toward it and when they meet, I can hear nothing but an earth-shattering BOOM and I don't waste time before covering myself again.\nThe smell of smoke and charring wood fills the air as the ringing in my ears recedes to a more dull whine.\nWhen I pull back my wings for a second time, the sun hits my face for the first time in nearly two days. It feels warm on my skin and I relish such a simple thing I've always taken for granted until now.\nFar away screams and car alarms reach my ears and my eyes flutter open to survey the area.\nMost of the roof and part of a wall has been blown away and large plumes of smoke are rising into the air now. It takes me a second to realize Tomoyo is no longer standing on my wrist but has fallen back and is sitting awkwardly on the floor. Her face is a mask of fury and her form is practically beastly at this point.\nIs it her anger? The more angry she is, the stronger she gets? Is that why she's always been so icy and unaffected? But she has to have some amount of control over it. I've seen her at least a little angry before and never saw any inkling of this quirk. For the longest time I just assumed she was quirkless.\n"Are you trying to purposely ruin everything?" She snarls at Whitney who, once again, only spares her a glance before trading blows with the blue-haired girl. She's definitely winning now.\nThe other girl is on her last legs and something within me wilts when I see her finally fall to her knees, barely able to keep her eyes open.\nWhitney punches her brutally and I wince as she falls to the debris-covered carpet. But she tries to lift herself again.\nWhitney lifts a foot seemingly to kick her now and my stomach feels sick watching her. Is this the girl I knew? Did that girl ever exist?\nA tentacle abruptly appears, shooting out from somewhere beyond the smoke and wraps around Whitney's wrist, pulling her back. She stumbles, ending her assault on the battered girl in front of her and her face is pale and horrified as she falls back into Suneater who steadies her.\n"Tamaki-kun," Whitney gasps, going rigid and looking completely defeated when his face is a mask of anger.\nMy heart soars when I recognize that white hood and indigo hair. If he's here then... then...\n"Aiko!" Taishiro's baritone voice booms above all other sounds and sends a bolt of intense emotion through me.\nI can't even put a word to how it feels knowing he came for me. Elation, love, agony at my lingering heartbreak, fear of what Tomoyo might do now he's here. It all just mixes up inside me, causing tears to stream down my face in a deluge as I push myself to a sitting position.\n"Taishiro!" I scream back, all of the emotions battling within me bubbling up to the surface. "Help m-"\nTomoyo slaps a hand over my mouth and drags me to my feet as I see multiple silhouettes appear in the smoke, one of which towers over the others.\nI fight with all of my strength, clawing and straining, tears still streaming down my cheeks. But Tomoyo grips my now severely bruised wrist and I scream into her palm, ending my struggle.\n"Get rid of them!" she snaps at the men who are left standing.\nI scream again, this time in despair, as I see the men flood toward the gaping hole in the house.\nNo! Taishiro! He won't be able to get to me in time!\n"Sorry, Aiko," she says cruelly into my ear, "There won't be a reunion today. We're leaving. I'll deal with Whitney later."\n"Wait!" I try to plead with a muffled voice, "Wait! No!"\nMy wings are trapped between me and her as they flap helplessly.\n"You are so pathetic," she growls, spreading her wings as I finally am able to see a glimpse of yellow jacket.\n"Taishiro!" I try to scream again but my voice is practically inaudible over the fight that's just begun.\nI can see him now as we steadily rise into the air. He's fighting to get to me. He sees me too!\n"Aiko!" He bellows, his face drawn and desperate. But the brunt of the men pile on him to hold him back and it's all he can do to stay upright.\nMy heart cracks at seeing him. I still haven't told him I'm pregnant yet! I haven't told him so much!\nI still want him so badly it's as though my heart is crying out to him when my voice can't.\nI love you Taishiro! I want to be a family! I will never stop loving you!\nI gasp as Taishiro throws each of the men off, dashing for us and reaching out. He'll be able to reach my foot if he just reaches a little-\n"Don't. Touch. Her." Tomoyo warns in a low growl, holding her claws to my stomach.\nTaishiro and I both freeze. The look in his eyes is that of complete and total terror. I know it because his face reflects how I'm also feeling.\nDoes he know? Or is he afraid she's threatening to disembowel me in front of him?\n"That's what I thought," Tomoyo croons, her voice so self-satisfied, it makes my blood boil.\nThe fight has already begun to quiet and I look past Taishiro to see Aizawa and Togata with a large dragon woman I've only ever met in passing at the ranking ceremony. I don't even remember her name. But she came to help too and I'm forever thankful that at least these girls whom she's approaching now, shrinking back down to normal size will be saved.\nI'm certain Tomoyo knew those men under her didn't stand a chance against heroes. They were only meant to be a distraction for her to escape. Her trafficking ring is falling apart in front of her eyes but if she gets away she could start it all up again. She's the only one who can connect each person in the chain. And if she gets away with me... She'll have everything she wants.\n"Let her go!" Taishiro cries out, "You can go, Tomoyo! I don't care! You can go! Just please!"\nMy chin trembles as I watch his tortured face. It speaks of how he can't suffer through watching me slip through his fingers again.\n"Please! Just let her go! She's all I want!"\nTaishiro...\n"I should've never let this thing go on with you two," she shouts at him, clutching me tighter, her claws slightly digging into my abdomen,"She is too precious for you to ruin! You've done nothing but make her into a flighty girl who daydreams about love and families! She is a strong, independent woman! She doesn't need you!"\n"But... I need her," he says, his face falling, "Please. Tomoyo, I just want her."\n"Lots of people want her," she replies coldly and continues the ascent.\nTaishiro turns to Aizawa who's come up beside him after handcuffing each of the men sitting off to the side now. I don't hear what he says to him but he grabs his shoulders desperately, his face full of agony.\nAizawa, for once, doesn't look sullen or annoyed or bored. He too looks defeated as he shakes his head at Taishiro, explaining something to him with regret.\nTaishiro then turns to the dragon woman who voices a concern that makes his shoulders slump. She looks the most beat up out of everyone anyway. One of those men had a nasty acidic quirk that left much of her body burned. I don't know if she could even fight much more.\nThey're saying they can't help me. They're saying anything they do will result in... probably death if Tomoyo's claws digging into me are any indication.\nBut the girls are saved. There's that at least. Even though I look down at them and they're all gazing up at me, their cheeks soaked with tears.\nTamaki is also looking up at me with pained eyes, keeping Whitney restrained with tentacles manifested from his hand.\nTogata as well. He's gone to the blue-haired girl's side but he watches us with a tense expression.\nI can't do this again. I can't just let my whole world float away right in front of my eyes. I refuse to sit still when I'm the only one who can keep Tomoyo from dragging me away. It might end up hurting me. It might end up killing me. But I'd rather that than let me or my baby be sold into slavery.\nWe're far above the treetops now when I dig my claws into Tomoyo's thighs and she screams in pain and rage.\nHer claws slice across my stomach as she whips her hands away from me and I let my own cry out as I plummet from her embrace.\nIt only takes a second for my wings to catch me though, spreading and flapping as they hold me upright. I can still fly. I can still glide down to Taishiro.\nI lower a shaky hand to my abdomen and lift it again to find it wet with blood. Looking down at the skin there, I see four cuts that run in jagged lines across my lower stomach. It hurts and maybe one might need stitches but none of them are all too deep. I'll be okay.\nMy relief is short-lived though as Tomoyo crashes into me, trying to get at me with her claws again.\nMy own claws meet hers, parrying her blows despite not having the same reach and we battle again, each of us slashing and parrying, kicking and blocking.\nEvery shot she takes is for a vital spot that, if she lands it, will seriously injure me.\nIf she's going to fight that way, I will too.\nMy wrist aches with all of the action but I can't afford to baby it. I have to fight through! I have to survive!\nI manage to lock her hand in my grip when one of her swipes at me is slower than before and kick out at her viciously, connecting with her stomach with a sickly soft thud.\nShe grunts as the breath is knocked from her and she pushes back, bending at the waist over her stomach. She doesn't seem to be recovering quickly as she had been before for some reason.\nThis could be my chance. I could end it all right here in multiple ways. I could kill her now and end so much suffering. I could finally be sure of my safety. It would be so easy. I could just shred her wings and let her fall or claw her eyes out or slit her throat.\nBut now that the opportunity has arisen, I'm hesitating. She still hasn't recovered. She's defenseless.\nSuddenly it's damn near impossible to want to kill her. She's hurt me so damn much. She wants to take my baby. She wants to take me from Taishiro. She's taken every single person from my life who has mattered to me and made her my sole person to lean on for years.\nBut I can't kill her. I still care about her in some way. I don't know if she would do the same for me. Maybe she'd kill me in the end if she never got her way. But I feel like she'd at least hesitate. Right?\n"Aiko!" Taishiro's voice reaches me from far below, beckoning to me. He's as tiny as a doll from all the way up here and I can see emergency vehicles have finally arrived.\nTaishiro... Yes, that's what I really want. I just want to go to him. I want to finally tell him I'm having his baby; that I want a life with him.\nThe dragon woman is back in her dragon form and it looks like she's flying up to us despite her serious burns. It looks like she intends to come get Tomoyo and arrest her.\nI breathe a sigh of relief and allow my wings to begin bringing me lower. She doesn't have to be my problem anymore.\nAs I descend, Taishiro's face becomes clearer and I can see his reverent expression upon fully seeing me at the height of my power. He really does think I'm beautiful like this...\nHis expression tightens once more, though, when something solid and heavy slams into my back at a terrifying speed.\n"You are mine, Aiko," Tomoyo hisses into my ear. She sounds weak but still burns with fury. "You do not get to just walk away from me. You are better than that idiot and you know it. That's why you couldn't be faithful to him."\nUnbearable pain radiates through me and I scream when I feel her claws tear through the thin membranes of my wings.\nWe're falling. We're falling and I can't fly! Every time I even try to move my wings, pain shoots through them and down my spine.\nWe're too high! We're falling too fast! Why isn't she lifting us again?!\n"You're gonna kill us both!" I cry in horror as the ground looms closer and closer.\nShe sighs, pulling my back into her chest. Her claws are gone now. Her wings are gone now. She's her normal self again. What's going on?! Does she intend to kill us both?\n"I told you I'd rather see you dead than to live such a meaningless life. We had a perfect life before he came along."\n"I hate you!" I shriek, terror gripping me just as hard as she is, "I just fell in fucking love you goddamn psycho! Stop trying to make me as miserable as you!"\nTaishiro is sprinting toward us now, closely followed by Aizawa. His face is white but he watches us determinedly.\n"Taishiro!" I cry out to him, praying to whatever deity might listen that he'll reach me in time.\nIt's close, so close. I'm so scared. I don't want to die. And I most especially don't want Taishiro to see it if I have to die like this.\nAll I can think of is that picture we took on his birthday sitting in his mother's scrapbook. The first picture of us. How much I loved every single person in that picture already; How much they loved me.\nTaishiro jumps, arms outstretched, and falls back as he pulls us into him. There is a crumbling sound as the ground caves in slightly at our impact but his quirk causes us to sink into him and absorbs all of the shock of us hitting him at such a high speed.\nI can only pant and feel dazed as I clutch at the yellow jacket surrounding me.\nTaishiro saved me...\nHe threw himself under me. Did he know he'd be able to absorb that impact?\nMy entire body shakes as Taishiro frees us from his bulk, setting Tomoyo whose grip on me has fallen away down to sit on the ground.\nI hang on a little longer, needing his comfort to steady myself. I really thought that had been the end for me there.\n"Taishiro," I choke out, "You came."\nHe holds me just as firmly, his embrace warm and safe, "I was so scared. I left you alone again. I'm so sorry, Ai-chan."\nAizawa and Tamaki reach us and Taishiro turns to them but I can't right now. I just need this. I can't face them yet.\nI hear coughing coming from Tomoyo's direction and I turn to her, my blood pressure surging, ready to attack her again.\nBut just as quickly as my anger sparked, it dies when I see her ashen face. She looks deathly ill.\nHer eyes seem dull and gaze at nothing in particular.\n"Tomoyo?" I ask nervously.\nShe slumps and I quickly drop to the ground and catch her, having to hold her to keep her mostly upright.\nThen I feel it as I put one of my arms around her midsection. There's a piece of glass in her back.\nI quickly pull back from it, sucking in a sharp breath, and dread seeps into me when my hand comes away completely covered in blood. Now that I look her over, I can see most of her pantsuit is soaked as well. I hadn't been able to tell with the black fabric.\n"Help!" I cry abruptly and the men startle, "Help her! She's hurt! There's a piece of glass! She's bleeding!"\nThey come closer but a gleam of hatred comes to Tomoyo's eyes and she's able to grow claws long enough on one hand and swipe to keep them away.\n"No!" She snarls at them weakly, "Don't touch me."\n"B-but," I breathe heavily, trying to hold back the panic that's pushing its way up my throat, "But you'll die. Please."\n"What do you care?" She says with a small smirk, "You wanted to kill me yourself."\n"No! No! That's not-"\n"I knew it was happening," she coughs again, drawing in a ragged breath.\n"But you still fought me! Why?!"\n"I've already told you a thousand times," she shakes her head, "You still don't listen to me. You can't let him make you some average housewife. I would've found some way to get you out of the sale. I just didn't want you to be chained down..."\nThe panic is pushing harder, threatening to consume me. I can't argue with her right now. I just need her to be okay.\n"I do care about you, Aiko. Maybe I loved you. Maybe I just wished I could've ever been like you. I just wanted to protect you."\n"You tried to kill me, though!" I snap at her, the panic starting to win as I watch her only become paler.\n"In the end, yes. I'm sorry. I was scared. I don't want to die alone and unloved." Her dark eyes sparkle with tears that make me feel like my chest is being wrung of all its air.\n"Shut up," I hiss, my vision blurring with my own tears, "Stop saying that! You're not!"\n"I hate that guy," her unfocused gaze lands on Taishiro, her voice just getting weaker and I see her blood beginning to pool beneath her now. The medics are rushing over, though. They'll save her! She'll be okay! Then I can hate her all I want.\n"Tell me the truth!" I whisper hurriedly, feeling like I need to lower my voice as well. I need these answers, though. "Tell me how you made me end up in that bed with Kenji! Tell me why I don't remember! Why would you do that to me?!"\nTomoyo's eyes glaze and she looks up at me again, a tiny, pained smile coming to her lips.\n"Oh Aiko..." She says in a nearly inaudible voice, caressing my cheek as a mother would, "I know you love him and I know you think you want a future with him but maybe..." she fights a moment to breathe before she continues, "Maybe you weren't ready. Maybe you were scared and don't want to remember what you did. But I... didn't make you do that. I promise, my dear."\nI cold knife shoves its way into my chest, twisting painfully. That can't be true...\nThe medics are only a few yards away. Her recovery is guaranteed now! We can get the rest of the answers later! I don't have to worry!\nTomoyo goes limp in my arms, her hand falling away from my face and my gaze drops onto her. She closes her eyes as a last, elongated breath sighs from her lips. Then she's gone.\nThere's nothing but silence for a few beats as the medics finally arrive too late and I just stare down at her serene face.\nThere is a breaking within me that's hard to describe. I've never lost someone before. Not someone who was close to me. But now Tomoyo lies lifeless in my arms and it seems so impossible to believe she'd ever done anything terrible at all. It just feels like... loss.\nI feel something building up in my throat. Some kind of lump that wants to get out or choke me or both.\nI hold Tomoyo tighter as anger and grief coil deep in my chest.\nThen that lump finally releases in the form of a cry, sorrowful and pathetic. And I can't stop. I can't stop crying. I can't stop the sobs wracking my body. I can't stop that desperate wailing pouring from my mouth. I just can't.\nI cry and I cry and I cry for the woman who ruined my life; the one who was my only friend for years, though it had been by her own design. She's gone and now it's as though all of those years with her are lost.\nThe others around me just leave me alone to hold onto her and cry myself out until warm arms surround me. Taishiro's.\n"You have to let go now, sweetheart," he says, his voice full of sympathy, "You have to let them take her."\n"I can't! I can't!" I howl, just clutching her tighter.\nWhen I let her go, that'll be it. She'll go and I'll never see her again. I'll never sass her again. I'll never tell her how much I hate her.\n"I know," he murmurs into the top of my head, running thick fingers through my hair, "I know she means a lot to you, Ai-chan. But you have to let her rest now, okay?"\n"No," I whine, unable to actually argue with him, "No..."\n"Come on, sweetheart. I'll help you get up. It's okay." He pulls lightly at my hands and I Iet him, trying to keep my eyes from the red staining most of my arms and legs.\nTomoyo is pulled from my grip by a medic who assures me he'll take care of her, then I'm led away.\nI exist in a colorless world, dazed as I move through it.\nI'm dimly aware of walking past the dragon woman being treated in an ambulance, the blue-haired girl at her side and each of the rescued girls who lightly touch me on the shoulder. Their eyes are grateful to me when I meet them, which helps bring me back to earth somewhat. These girls are saved. There are so many more out there who weren't. Will they ever be now that she's gone?\nI'm led to the back of another ambulance and Taishiro is handed towels to wipe me down with. I still can't look at myself, though.\nAs he does so, I notice Whitney watching me, sitting on a curb, her hands cuffed in her lap. When my eyes meet hers, she nods at me once.\nWhitney is the reason we made it out. Yes, she was the one who kidnapped me but... she didn't drug me like she was supposed to. She risked a lot to undo her mistake. Although, I suppose, there's still so much she's done that she still needs to answer for.\nI notice a familiar hooded figure approach and Whitney only has eyes for Tamaki then as he kneels in front of her, his back to us.\n"Whitney," he says in a more emotional voice than I've ever heard from him.\nI can't see his face but Whitney's blanches, her bright green eyes going glassy. She does care about him.\n"Why? I thought..." he doesn't continue. He seems to have lost his words.\nThe heartbreak and guilt in Whitney's eyes are easy to see. They keep moving back and forth between his, trying to determine how she'll answer without him hating her.\n"Tamaki," she breathes out, "I... I-"\n"You kidnapped Aiko. You nearly killed Nejire. You've been... doing this" he motions toward the girls "all along?"\n"Yes," she says in a small voice, hanging her head.\n"So none of it was real? You only got close to us for this."\n"No! No! That's not-" She abruptly takes his face between her hands and he stiffens at the contact and her closeness, "It started out that way but I... got to know you and Aiko and everyone else and I started hating this job. I just didn't know what to do or how to leave. She would've killed me! But I do... I care about you Tamaki. It is real."\nThere is silence for a few seconds as Tamaki takes this in.\nI can't deny there's some interest within me at how this will turn out, though right now I feel far removed from the woman who was so deeply invested in this triangle.\nTamaki slowly pulls Whitney's hands from his face, placing them back in her lap.\nHer expression is agonized when he shakes his head.\n"I wish I could believe that. I liked you... Mirio was... coming around to you. I've never felt more foolish."\nWhitney's tears glisten as they fall from her lashes. "You're not! You're not foolish!"\nTamaki stands but Whitney grabs for his hand desperately, "I'll fix it somehow! I'll do anything! It is real, Tamaki!"\nHe hesitates, looking down at the ground.\n"She saved me," I whisper in a hoarse voice to Taishiro, "She was supposed to drug me but didn't. She wanted me to escape."\nTaishiro overheard their conversation as well and halts his cleaning to look back at Whitney's tear-stained face. "I wish it were just that simple to atone for everything she's done. But it's not."\nUnsurprisingly, Togata appears at Tamaki's side. It is surprising, however, when he lays a hand on Tamaki's shoulder, turning him back to her.\n"Then help make things right. Tell us everything you know about the ring. Tell us about everyone. Help us catch them and get the kidnapped girls back. If you do then maybe... maybe we can protect you. Maybe we can get you a lighter sentence."\nWhitney stares up at the blonde boy, her eyes wide. She's just as shocked as I am that he'd give her some small chance at redemption or help her at all. He should be overjoyed she'll no longer be in the picture if she's locked away.\nTamaki looks surprised as well when I see his hood fall back.\n"I- I'll do whatever I can," Whitney offers gratefully, "I promise. I'll help."\n"We need to get you to a hospital," a medic says to me, turning my attention back to the matter at hand, "Your wings are badly damaged and I want to take a look at your wrist and stomach."\nLooking down at myself, I'm thankful to see most of the blood has been wiped away, although it still stains my clothing.\nI nod and allow him to strap me onto the stretcher, careful of my still enlarged wings. They're torn, although no longer bleeding. I wonder if I'll ever be able to fly again.\n"I'll go with you," Taishiro volunteers without a second thought and my heart squeezes painfully.\nI can finally tell him. But after everything that's happened, it's hard to feel anything but nauseous over it.\nI'm loaded up in the ambulance and Taishiro squeezes in beside me, trying to find a comfortable seat as we're closed in together and the medic takes up his place at the driver's seat.\nWe're alone now, surrounded by silence as he looks at me and I look at anything but him.\n"I'm sorry... about Tomoyo," he says awkwardly, "I know she mattered to you. Even though-"\n"I'm pregnant," I say suddenly, cutting through his placations. I don't want to talk about her.\nHe freezes for only a second. Surprised by my swift change in subject.\n"I know," he nods.\nSilence presses down on us again and seems to stretch for hours as that information hangs in the air. I'm pregnant. He knows. That's it.\nAll this time I was afraid to tell him because the moment didn't seem right or I just didn't want to see the further heartbreak in his eyes and now we're here. He must've learned it while he was looking for me, in the worst way possible. I didn't save him any pain at all.\n"I want you to come home with me," He finally speaks up again, "I want to take care of you."\nHe leans closer to me but I turn further away, still unable to look at his face. I don't want to see whatever emotion is there.\n"It's me, Ai-chan. You're safe. You know I won't hurt you," he says, reaching out a hand to touch mine but I slowly slide my fingers from under his, wishing I could be doing anything but.\n"I'm sorry for the things I said, Aiko. I'm sorry for everything," he tries again, not pushing any further. He sounds hurt.\n"Don't be," I say softly, watching my fingers curl in the blanket, gripping it tightly, "You were... right."\n"No! Don't say that!" he pleads with me, "I shouldn't have kicked you out. I should've believed you from the start. I couldn't handle it and I just... Please just look at me, Ai-chan."\nI don't want to. I don't deserve to.\n"Didn't you hear what she said?" I ask brittly, my fist shaking.\n"Who? Tomoyo? No. At the end she was... No one could hear her if she was talking. Why?"\n"Taishiro," I hiccup, my heart wilting. I knew his kindness was too good to be true. Now I have to tell him and lose him all over again?\nI will myself to finally meet his eyes and find myself lost in those golden pools. He looks like he hasn't slept for days. Concern and apprehension line his face.\nI love him so much. I love the way he so easily smiles at me despite his fears. I love the way he always wants to be touching me to show his affection. Everything about this man enamores me. He is good. If there were nothing else I knew about him, that would be the one thing I would.\nSo how could I do that to him? I thought I was sure about wanting a family with him. I was so sure he was the love of my life. I still feel that way now. I do! I want him so badly! I want to love only him for the rest of forever!\nSo why did I do it? And why won't my brain let me remember?!\nMy lips pull down in a grimace and his face falls as he watches me, dread winning out.\n"I did it."\nHe searches my face for a moment, trying to seem like he's confused. He wants to not understand.\nHe shakes his head slightly, brows turned down in a question. "Did what?"\n"You know," I say straight forward, "She had nothing to do with it. It was all me. No one else."\nHis breaths become measured as his face gets a mildly pained expression and he blinks at me. "What... what do you mean? She... kidnapped you. She found a way this way to get you away from me so she could kidnap you. That... makes sense."\n"No," I breathe out, my lips trembling, "I asked her. Over and over. She admitted to everything else. But she denied that. Even at the end."\nTaishiro's eye break from mine, searching around frantically for an answer to this. "Well... Well she lied. She was trying to hurt you. She didn't want us to be together."\n"No," I correct him again, my heart crumbling to dust at the way he flinches at that word, "It wasn't her. It was all-"\n"Don't say that," he cuts me off sharply, his gigantic hands settling on the stretcher, shaking, "You- you love me and I love you and you're pregnant and we're gonna be a family. Don't tell me otherwise."\n"I want that," I tell him, my voice cracking, "I want that so bad. But I also know I did this. And I'm sorry, Taishiro. I'm so sorry. I love you so much. You don't deserve this."\nHis face is stricken, frozen in a struggle to swallow down his agony. He doesn't want me to see how much I've just hurt him but I can see it in every little quiver of his face and it shatters me. It makes me want to shake him and scream that he should yell at me, slap me, push me away, something.\n"So I'll... I'll still go live with Aizawa like we originally planned, okay?" I say, wanting to completely fall apart at just how much deader his eyes grow by the second, "A- and... we'll figure out the... baby... later."\nHe doesn't answer me. He won't look at me and it's like a knife stabbing my heart over and over with every moment that passes.\nThe ambulance stops and the driver gets out, coming around to the back to open the doors. Still, Taishiro remains silent and frozen, his lips pressed together like he's trying to keep everything pushed down deep.\n"Alright, let's get you seen by a doctor," the medic says, unlocking my stretcher's braces to start pulling me out.\nI just keep my eyes on Taishiro and I realize our roles have reversed from when we first entered.\n"I love you," I whisper to him, brushing my hand along his as I'm pulled out, and for just a second, he responds, his hand following mine to stay in contact for just a moment longer.\nHe meets my eyes again and the devastation there is unfathomable.\n"I'll be a few minutes," he says to the medic in a nearly normal voice.\nIt's at this moment I know there is no such thing as moving on from him. There will never be another person who feels like home the way he does. He was my one chance and I fucking blew it like the total fuckup I am.\nAs the stretcher rolls away and the doors close behind us, I clutch my chest as it sinks deeper and deeper into despair. Because I know he's crying out there.\nI know he won't "be a few minutes". It's really over. He'll wait until Aizawa gets here... and then he'll be gone.\n"Aiko," there's a soft feminine voice at my hospital room's door, knocking lightly before it opens.\n"Mom," I gasp, amazed to find her stepping into my room.\nShe takes in my demonic appearance for just a second, then rushes to me, enveloping me in her embrace. Oh god, it feels so good. She's warm and she smells a little like antiseptic but that's just her smell. It's my mom.\n"H- how? How are you here?" I ask her, already feeling soothed just from her presence.\n"Your uh... guy? called me. He told me everything that happened. I'm so sorry, my baby. I should've protected you from her from the start and I just... I failed you," she presses her forehead to mine, shiny tears falling on my sheets.\nI hold tightly onto her, reveling in the first amount of comfort I've felt in days.\nTaishiro called my mom for me. He called the one person I really need right now; the one who truly loves me without any hidden agendas or expectations. He will always know me better than anyone else in the world.\n"You didn't," I'm so relieved to finally tell her, "You never failed me. She lied to you and she lied to me and she stole our time together."\nMy mother smiles down at me as she cradles my head in her hands, "We still have a lot of time. Don't worry about any of that. Let's get you healed up. I'll stay with you for as long as you need me."\nAnd she does. Talking with me or watching my trashy reality shows on the TV throughout the day, sleeping on a cot next to my bed at night. She watches over me and cares for me and reminds me of just how close we used to be.\nWaking up after a few days of this, I look over at her peacefully sleeping form and, although my heart is still torn apart in a way that may never heal for Taishiro, I feel the wound for Tomoyo's loss beginning to close. The love her presence once choked out finally begins to flourish again.\n

Chapter 33:\n"I'm so glad you're gonna be living here, Ai-senpai!" Ei says excitedly, practically bouncing as he and Tetsu bring my heavier luggage into my room.\nI've been staying with Aizawa for a few days already but I've only been living out of a small suitcase until today. Taishiro finally got all of my clothes packed to send home with Ei and Tetsu. I haven't seen or spoken to him since that day in the ambulance.\n"Me too," I say genuinely, a small smile coming to my lips. His excitement is infectious.\nTeachers live in what can essentially be called row houses on the campus of UA. Each of them has three bedrooms and two baths.\nAizawa and Eri each take up a bedroom of their own and he's been letting me stay in his third room.\n"We've missed you a lot at work," Tetsu says with a mournful expression, "Fat is-"\nEi elbows him, likely noticing how quickly my face has fallen.\n"How are your wings?" He quickly rebounds.\nThankful for the reprieve, I gingerly extend them for the boys to see.\n"They're still sore," I inform them, "But they're mostly healed. I should be able to get the stitches out soon."\nMy quirk yet again healed the torn pieces of my wings quickly after they'd been stitched back together. Now all that's left is the soreness and dark scar tissue spider webbing across the membranes.\n"Have you tried to make them big again?" Tetsu asks interestedly.\nI shake my head. "No. I'll give it a little more time before I do that, I think."\nEi sits on my bed, running his hand along the soft comforter. "You think you'll fly again? Suneater said you looked really cool when you were flying. I'm sad we missed it."\nI sigh, ruffling his hair lightly. "I'm sure I'll fly again. Just give it some time. When I have this quirk completely under control, I'll show you."\nHis reaction isn't as energetic as I thought it'd be. He just keeps watching his hand as it moves along the comforter. "I hope... you feel better, Ai-senpai. I really am glad to see you here but..."\nMy wings droop at his loss of enthusiasm.\nBut he misses how things were at the agency. He doesn't have to say it for me to know what he means.\nDespite Taishiro telling Aizawa about what happened between us, it's clear he still kept it a secret from the boys and Tamaki. Now they don't understand what's going on but they can see it's painful for me at least and they're always trying their best to cheer me up.\nI'm always thankful for these sweet boys.\nA gray, long-haired cat wanders into my room and jumps up on the bed as though it belongs to her, rubbing her face gently against Ei's arm.\n"Grizzy!" Eri storms in carrying a ruffled bonnet, "We weren't done with dress-up yet!"\nThe tension in the room immediately breaks and Ei's easy smile returns as he lifts Grizzabella off the bed. Eri has that effect on people.\nI've heard in vague detail about her past. So much trauma in her past and she still shines so brightly. It's like she's making up for all of the pain she endured by living her life to the fullest now.\nI'm so glad Aizawa asked me to stay here. Not just because he can help train me but because of her. She's still able to smile and laugh and love after being through so much. It makes me more confident I'll get there too.\n"Grizzy, was she torturing you with those clothes again?" Ei, coos at the cat, scratching behind her ears.\n"I wasn't! She likes it! They all do!" Eri protests.\nAs if on cue, two more cats stroll in. One is a dark chocolate color, currently dressed in a little sweater vest and newsboy cap. The other is an orange tabby, dressed like a cowboy. Only the brown one seems to be enjoying it.\n"That's why she ran in here to escape," Ei chuckles, placing Grizzabella back on the floor.\nEri pouts, her cheeks puffing up. "They do like it! Isn't that right Mac? Rum?"\nRum Tum Tugger- or Rum for short- knocks his cowboy hat off with a paw across his head. He does not seem to like it. Macavity is pleased as punch to be getting all the attention and winds his body between Eri's legs, meowing appreciatively.\nEri's face is defeated as she picks up the little cowboy hat. She's clearly disappointed they weren't enjoying it as much as she thought.\nGuilt crosses Ei's face looking at her now. "But uh... hey! Let's do tea time! Tetsu and I have some time before we go back to our dorms!"\n"We do?" Tetsu looks confused but Ei just elbows him again.\nThe dejected look is gone now and Eri brightens once more. I think most of us would do anything to keep that smile on her face.\nA hand unconsciously goes to my stomach as the three exit my room, followed closely only by Macavity. Will my baby be like that? Will their smile fill my entire world with brightness? Will it be enough to fill the emptiness in my heart?\nI begin unpacking the luggage the boys brought in, sifting through box after box.\nTaishiro seems to have remembered well how I packed them before. All of the dresses in one, sweaters and jackets in another. Even my lingerie is folded neatly and I can imagine his pained face as he did it. How much he must've hated packing these.\nAt the bottom of the jacket box, my hand freezes over the last thing in it. My heart seizes up when I take the shredded cloth in my hand and lift it out of the box.\nThis jacket... Taishiro gave it to me the night we met. It feels like years ago now.\nI lift it and press it to my face, though I know his smell has long since faded on it.\nAn ache radiates from my chest recalling that night now. I knew, even at the very beginning, that he was someone special. I knew he would be dangerous to my heart. I knew I could fall for him. And I let it happen. I let him in and made my world so much more beautiful than it ever was.\nAnd now it's my fault that's all gone.\nI fail to choke back a sob as tears dampen the jacket pressed to my face.\nLaying down in my bed, I leave the rest of the unpacking for tomorrow. I can't keep going. It hurts. It just all hurts too much today.\n"I can't do this, Tai," I whisper to the yellow fabric, "I need you."\nAnd, of course, silence is my only response.\nA few more days pass by where Aizawa and Eri try to keep me busy. Whether it be through helping him grade papers and watching his class train or teaching her how to apply makeup and pose for pictures. Before the end of the week, Aizawa's phone has close to 100 new pictures, all of Eri or us both or the cats.\nAizawa and I coexist well. Obviously he's not the same warm presence Taishiro was but he's comforting in his own way and he seems to enjoy my company as well.\nI wonder if we could stay like this forever and if that would be enough for me. I could have the baby and maybe he'd be okay with letting me stay with him while I raise them. Eri might be excited to have a younger "sibling" for once.\nI remember very well Taishiro mentioning before that Aizawa has no interest in a romantic relationship. But he did mention that he wasn't sure if he'd ever want companionship at least. I don't think I'd mind being that for him. I can't see myself loving anyone but Taishiro anymore.\nI have to face the fact that Taishiro and I aren't getting back together, even if he does want to be a part of our child's life. If he never wants me back, being comfortable companions with Aizawa will be enough... I think.\n"How are you feeling lately," he asks me over dinner one night, eyes studying me like a particularly interesting subject.\nIt's been a difficult day for me. I went in for my weekly check up. The OB is worried that my being drugged might affect the baby's development and insists on seeing me more often than normal. Though, so far, everything seems to be on track. It's still too soon to tell.\nI've never felt quite so alone as I do when I have to go in that room by myself.\nI glance over my plate at him. "How do you mean?"\nHe could mean anything by that. How am I settling in? How am I coping without Taishiro? How am I healing? How is my energy?\nHe makes a noncommittal face and shrugs his shoulders. "Any way you want to take it. How are you?"\nIt takes a moment to consider my answer, eyeing my nails in the meantime. "I'm... I don't know."\n"That's to be expected. I probably would've been more worried if you'd said you were fine."\n"I still miss him... and Tomoyo sometimes. I'm sorry." I often feel guilty for grieving someone so terrible but, somehow, he's never judged me for it. Maybe he's lost someone who's done terrible things as well.\nHe shrugs again. "These things take time. Don't feel rushed to be okay. You might want to push yourself to feel better but one day you actually will and when that time comes, you don't want to feel guilty about moving on. Let yourself feel however you want and just... be. Nothing more is expected of you."\nA small smile comes to my lips. That was oddly kind of him and, even though none of his words were really all uplifting, they put me more at ease.\nThis was why he wanted me to stay with him. Even before Tomoyo's loss, he knew I would need comfort, kindness, peace. He's given me that letting me into this simple life with him and Eri.\n"Thanks... Shota," I say quietly, poking at my salad with my chopsticks.\nI watch his face look bemused from the corner of my eye. Then it becomes more thoughtful, and finally settles on indifference.\nHe'll allow it. That perks me up even more.\n"We can start your training soon, I think," he goes on without correcting me.\nLooking fully at him now, I allow the apprehension I feel at that to show. I've proven that I have a decent amount of control over my quirk now. I can even transform at will, although I can't just transform back. It has to fade with my energy consumption. So the more of me I transform, the longer it'll take for me to go back to normal. If it's just claws, it's only a couple hours but my whole body? That always takes days.\nI know my energy stores have begun to run low already. Despite having been refilled, I expended a ton of energy in my fight and I'm nearly at the dregs now.\nBut up until this point, our training has focused mostly on sexual energy. And even though I find him attractive and know he feels the same, I know I can't bring myself to do anything with him. I feel like... the moment I do, that'll truly be the end of me and Taishiro. There won't be any going back. I'm not ready for that yet.\n"W-what kind of training?" I ask nervously. He did say before that we could work on other emotions.\nUnderstanding graces his face. "I have some ideas on that."\n"I'm not tasting fear, Shota," I grouse as I hold his hand limply in my mouth, looking like some kind of dog with a bone. This was his big plan?\n"This movie is cheesy," he says with disdain, "I'm trying my best."\nIt's pretty late at night and we're watching a horror movie, specifically a slasher film. It was lauded as "the scariest movie of the year". I guess there haven't been many to pick from this year...\n"Not even a little bit of fear?" I side-eye him and he throws a glare right back.\n"I. Am. Trying."\nHuffing a pouty breath out, I sit with his hand in my mouth a little longer watching as another person bites the dust, impaled with a metal pipe.\n"Whatcha doing?" A tiny voice asks as Eri enters the room right when someone gets their head lopped off.\nHer eyes slide to us and Aizawa scrambles for the remote to pause. "You should be in bed, Eri! It's late! You have school!"\n"I was trying!" she whines, "But it sounded like you were having fun out here without me and I just wanted... I don't know. I just wanted to sit with you."\nHer scarlet eyes gain a shiny quality to them and I can sense that we're being worked over pretty well here. Does this approach work on him very often?\nRemoving his hand from my mouth, I address her next. "But we were watching a movie for grownups. It's not appropriate for kids."\n"A grownup movie like with kissing and stuff?"\nShota covers his face with his hand now, shaking his head. "How do you even- No. Just... come sit. We'll put on another movie."\nEri obliges, cuddling up to his side, forcing him to scoot closer to me.\nIt doesn't offend me that she doesn't often choose to sit between us or just me. I'm still practically a stranger to her. One day she might find my presence a comfort to her, but for now I'm just happy she accepts me at all. If she'd hated me, I doubt I could've stayed here for very long.\n"How about this one?" Shota brings up one of the most recent dog movies. It's family friendly although not at all scary.\nIt looks like training time is over and not a single drop of energy. At this rate... I'm worried I might have to resort to sexual energy.\nThe movie starts and Eri snuggles up close to Shota, putting a tiny arm around his midsection.\nI ache every time I see them being so affectionate. Every time, I put a hand to my stomach, reminding myself of the little one in there. One day maybe they will want my cuddles too.\nI turn back to the movie and settle in to watch the story of a dog traveling tirelessly to get back to his family. It's a sweet and harrowing story and I become fully engrossed in it before long.\nOnly near the end of the movie do I break my attention away to glance over at Shota and Eri again. He's still watching contentedly while petting the head of the now sleeping girl.\nThey both look so peaceful, it nearly makes me jealous.\nSomething like freshly tilled earth catches my nose. It's a scent grounded in nostalgia and comfort. A new scent. A new... emotion!\nI can smell it! Is this... Shota's love?\nI recall smelling and tasting Taishiro's love once. It had melded with his lust when we were at our most passionate but I was never capable of picking it out when I wasn't trying to absorb anything from him. Maybe it's not so easy to detect when I'm not trying to train.\nIf only I could try and scent that emotion on him again...\nShota's eyes lift to mine and I motion for his hand. I want to try again.\nHe seems perplexed but doesn't deny me, holding out his hand, palm up, for me to take.\nTaking his rough, calloused hand in mine, I bring it slowly to my lips, trying to be careful not to disrupt the emotion of the scene before me. But as I do, the scent only grows stronger, not weaker.\nI stick out my tongue, just pressing it to his palm like one would do to a food they're unsure they want to try and he chuckles, his scent growing stronger.\nThe flavor there hits me like a shot through my chest. It's beautiful. I don't know how else to describe it. I can't compare it to anything. The energy he pours into me feels like a warm, fluffy cloud rather than the usual liquid feeling of desire.\nIt fills me with peace and warmth so much that I feel like I might cry. I haven't known these feelings so keenly in what feels like years.\nMeeting his eyes, I feel choked up as my vision blurs with tears and he pulls his hand from my mouth to wipe them away.\nThat affection isn't just for her. It's for me too. I didn't know love could feel this way as well. I didn't know someone could care like this if it weren't romantic. But he does. He sees me and he accepts me and he wants to make me whole.\n"That good huh?" he asks with amusement.\nI can only nod as I pull his hand back to my mouth to relish in the flavor the feeling again.\n"Ah well... I'm glad you found something else you can absorb." He looks back toward the movie, a soft tinge of pink at his cheeks.\nHe probably won't say more but I don't mind. I don't need him to explain. I'm just thankful for him and for Eri and for this tiny bit of home I've found.\n"Okay, so when we're decorating a bujo we have a lot more freedom with them than most planners or journals," I tell Eri as she sits next to me and opens a freshly bought bullet journal. "Anything you can think of, you can put in that journal."\nEri looks up from the dotted page, her silver brows scrunched in a look of intense thought. Then she seems to give up on her pondering and turns her eyes on me.\n"What do you put in your bujo, nee-chan?"\nI smile at her, my heart warming at the title she so easily adopted with me. "Well, I used to only do planners but my therapist actually got me into bujos to help me keep track of my mood each day and to write down any thoughts I have, even if they're bad or good or silly. Sometimes it's to keep track of books I read or a to-do list. You could keep track of your schoolwork and how your quirk training is going."\n"I could keep track of which of the cats slept in my bed last night," she suggests excitedly, her smile exposing a gap in her teeth from one recently coming out.\n"You could do that!" I say, enthusiastically fluttering my wings. I'm so pleased she's coming up with her own ideas.\n"And I can decorate it with a bunch of cat stickers and paw print stamps!" She goes on.\n"Yes! Yes! Let's do that!" I clap excitedly, grabbing for the items she listed off.\nA knock on the door has me looking up warily, pausing my sticker gathering.\n"Oh it's probably nii-san," Eri provides, "I think he's supposed to train with Zawatou-chan."\nI blink at her. That could be any number of people. I've heard her refer to almost every boy in Shota's class as well as Togata and Tamaki by that title.\nPushing back from the table, I step toward the door and look through the peephole.\nA teenage boy stands there, hands in his pockets. He has wild purple hair a few shades darker than my own with the same eye color and dark, bruise-like bags under his eyes. Poor kid doesn't look like he's slept in a week.\nIt's someone I don't recall ever seeing before. He's wearing a UA gym uniform and some support gear around his neck but he's not in Shota's class. Who is this kid?\nWhen I open the door for him, he looks surprised and slightly puzzled to see me. I don't think he was intending to be greeted by anyone but Shota or Eri.\n"Shinsonii-san!" Eri calls from the table, waving at him over her stickers.\nShinso? Why haven't I heard of him before?\n"Hey, Eri," he smiles kindly, his face looking far less haggard and closer to handsome with that expression. He then addresses me, "I'm just here to train with Aizawa-sensei."\n"Oh, Shinso," Shota finally emerges from his room zipped up in his sleeping bag to greet the boy, "I was still sleeping..."\nThat surprises absolutely none of us.\n"Give me a few minutes and I'll be ready," he says, ducking back into his room to presumably dress properly.\nI'm left alone in the living room with this new boy and Eri still working at the table.\nI'd never known Shota worked with so many other people. It makes sense though, I suppose. He has the perfect quirk to keep other people from getting out of hand. Though it's not easy to tell what this boy's quirk is just by looking at him.\n"So you're... not in Shota's class?" I ask conversationally.\nHe shakes his head. "No but... it's complicated. He's helping me train to be a hero."\n"Is your quirk dangerous too? Is that why you need him?" I wonder aloud.\nHe chuckles lightly, getting a rather familiar smirk to his lips that I can only imagine he's picked up from Shota.\n"It's not inherently dangerous. I have a brainwashing quirk. If someone responds when I speak to them, I can activate my quirk and get them to do simple tasks. They can't be very complex because it's like I'm remotely controlling someone else's brain. Although, the more I train it, the more complex instructions I've been able to give."\nWow. That seems like a really useful and fascinating quirk. Though, like he said, it's not inherently dangerous like mine or Eri's.\n"Show me!" I say, grinning at him.\nHis cheeks go pink at my encouragement and he looks away from me, fiddling with what looks like a mask hanging around his neck.\n"I... don't know. It can be uncomfortable to not have control over your body. Some people just mindlessly follow my orders and wake up in a daze afterward but other people are lucid the whole time and struggle against it. I haven't had many people break out of it."\nI'm a little less sure I'd like to experience that now he's explained it that way. "Oh... well... you don't have to then."\n"On me! On me!" Eri bounces over, having gotten up from her spot at the table, "I'll do it!"\n"No... sensei would kill me," he rubs at the back of his head sheepishly.\n"Awww. I wanna do it!" she sticks her bottom lip out, pouting.\n"He's not using his quirk on you," Shota strolls back in the room, more appropriately dressed in a T-shirt and sweatpants.\nHe gives me a scolding look when I instinctively eye his groin area. How can he blame me, though?! They're SWEATPANTS! That's like me scolding him for looking at my ass in leggings. Come on!\nThis is the first time I've even looked at him like this since... before, though. It makes me feel like I might be starting to finally heal. Although realizing that puts a new kind of heaviness on my heart.\n"Let's go, Shinso. We're already late," he ushers the boy out the door without a second glance back.\nAs the door shuts, I hear Shinso complaining back, "Eh? You were the one who-"\n"To. The. Training yard."\nAnd with that, they're gone, leaving me and Eri to sit back down at our table, gathering stickers and markers for her bujo again.\n"Ooo! I just thought of something! I wanna make a list of all the movies we watch every week!" she chirps out excitedly. "Oh! And how about a page for all the cool heroes I think Zawatou-chan has in his class! I'll start with Deku!"\nHer ideas are coming faster and faster now. I think she'll really enjoy this creative outlet after all.\nAnother knock sounds on the door only a few minutes after they've left and I have to stand again, rolling my eyes.\nAnother person? I pad to the door, pulling it open roughly.\n"Aizawa is out at the moment-"\nMy breath gets caught in my throat and I damn near slam the door shut again.\n"Oh," Taishiro says, trying to keep his eyes away from mine, "That's okay, I guess. I just wanted to bring some stuff... for the baby."\nThe dangerously fragile peace I'd begun to find here cracks slightly as he holds up a simple box usually used for moving.\nAt my lack of response he goes on, "It didn't seem right to make Red and Steel do all the work that should be mine. I'll bring you things if you need them and I'll get you the best doctors or whatever you need. I'm here for you."\nI take the box and say nothing still. It's so hard to even breathe with him here. It feels like my chest is being weighed down, slowly crushing me.\n"I can just... I'll go."\n"Fat Gum-san!" Eri shrieks, running toward the door and startling me into realizing that I'm just standing there like an idiot.\n"You can- come in. If you want," I say, pulling the door open wider.\nTaishiro kneels as Eri leaps into his arms and he envelops her in a big bear hug that makes my heart only ache even more painfully.\nI have to turn away and take the box to the table, shooing Rum from the table that he'd snuck up on to play with our supplies.\n"Oh were you making a journal?" Taishiro asks, coming up beside me, holding Eri with one arm.\n"Yeah! Aikonee-san was teaching me how to make a bujo and..."\nHer words stop taking on meaning to me as I open the box. There are boxes of diapers in here and a big stack of swaddling blankets all covered in cute little hero designs. I run my fingers over the soft fabrics.\nMy tail jerks when Taishiro speaks closer to me, "I was able to ask some vendors for some items and they were all too happy to send me as much baby merch as I wanted."\nI'm rifling through a stack of baby clothes now, all sized from 1-3 months to 6 months. It was probably smart to not get any newborn size. There's no reason to pretend they'll ever be that small.\nSo many of these little outfits are making my heart pound faster and faster. Seeing all of this stuff is making everything feel more real than ever. The baby is coming. Soon I'll have a tiny little human in my arms. Am I ready to be responsible for a whole tiny human?\nThey're all so cute with their little baby designs for heroes. Little birds for Hawks, bunnies for Mirko, mountains for Mt. Lady. I'm especially drawn to the bubbles for Wash. These little outfits are so adorable.\nI pull out a bright yellow one that attracts my eye to find it's a special one. It's Fat's costume design on a little onesie.\nThat crack in my peace grows thicker.\nIt reminds me of Mai, that proud little girl who declared herself Taishiro's number one fan. I haven't thought about that day in months. Now, looking back on it hurts so unimaginably bad. I'd told her I'd fallen for him before I'd even realized it was the truth. It was so easy to say...\n"I hope it's okay. I just... want them to be proud of their dad-"\nI drop the outfit back in the box and flee to the bathroom as every crack in my heart shatters it again.\nIt hurts! It hurts! It hurts! I don't want to do this! I want to go home with him! I want him to hold me in his arms too! It hurts more and more every single moment I have to be near him and not be allowed to touch him!\nBut I can't beg him anymore! I can't ask anything of him! How could I ever ask him to love me still when I've broken him so irreparably?\nI'm able to slam the door shut and lift the lid before heaving the contents of my stomach into the toilet over and over until my stomach muscles begin to cramp.\nI still get this nauseous sometimes. It's becoming more infrequent but things that strain my stomach, and even some strong smells, will just set me off sometimes.\nSobs wrack my throat as I become overwhelmed by the frustration of my weak stomach multiplied by the agony tearing at my chest.\nIt's all too much! Why can't I just fix this?! Why am I so stupid?! Why does this have to hurt so badly?! Why does he have to always be so fucking KIND?!\n"Aiko?" A soft knock comes at the bathroom door.\n"Go away," I blubber into the toilet bowl, resting my hot, tear-stained cheek on the cool seat.\nDon't go! Don't leave me again! I want to cry instead. But I have no right.\nTaishiro is quiet for a few heartbeats then speaks again, "I just want to make sure you're okay."\nI'm not. How can I be when he won't love me anymore?\n"Can I come in?" he asks through the door.\n"I'm gross," is my only pitiful argument as I flush the toilet.\n"That doesn't matter to me and you know it," he says, opening the door a crack to peer in.\nHe sees me hugging the toilet bowl pitifully and pushes the rest of the way in, shutting the door behind him.\n"Ai-chan," he says softly, leaning over me.\nDon't call me that. I wish I could say it to him but I can't force myself to let go of yet another piece of something we share. Can't I be selfish just this once?\n"I didn't know your stomach was still so sensitive. Are you okay?" he lays a giant hand between my wings and they tremble at his warmth.\nI don't think he's realized this was brought on by my reaction to his baby items. That's good. At least I can save myself some small amount of dignity.\n"Yeah... Sorry. I hope Eri wasn't scared," I mumble quietly.\n"Let's get you cleaned up, okay? Don't worry about Eri, she understands and she's working on her journal again. You're fine." He holds out a hand for me to take and pulls me up to stand.\nGrabbing a washcloth from the cabinet, he runs it under some cool water and rings out the excess.\nI shiver, my wings splaying out when he touches the damp cloth to my cheek, dragging it along my cheekbone and dabbing around my eyes.\n"I'm sorry this is so hard on you," he says softly, his breath lightly touching my face. I know he means the pregnancy when he says it.\nI can't look up to meet his eyes. Instead, I watch his hands as they go about their task. "It's okay. I'm doing okay."\nMy heart is calming now and in place of the outright stabbing pain of heartbreak, I just ache, feeling a deep, lasting sadness burrowing into my heart.\nHe pauses for a moment, the cloth hovering just above the other cheek he's begun to clean. Then, he starts again, shaking off whatever's given him pause.\n"Good. That's... that's good, Ai-chan."\nThat voice, so calm and reassuring, settles over me like a warm blanket and my breaths become easier. Even when he's the source of my pain, just being around him like this having him care for me soothes me in some way.\nI close my eyes, trying to pretend for just a little while that things are still the way they used to be. His hands on my face, drying my tears and wiping lips off, make my skin jolt with electricity each time I feel his skin on mine.\n"I... hope you like the stuff I brought," he speaks calmly, "I'll bring more if you want. I'll get a crib and everything too. Whatever you need."\nA small smile curves on my lips. "Thank you, Tai."\nHe halts again at that, but this time he doesn't start again and I have to open my eyes.\nIt's only at this point, I realize I've taken his hand in my two smaller ones. It seemed so natural that I hadn't even realized it's not something I'm supposed to do anymore.\nI'm so used to covering his hand with mine, pressing my cheek into his palm, kissing him there. I took those loving moments for granted...\nMy eyes finally meet his and hope alights within me. Those golden orbs shimmer down at me saying all the things I wish he would be. And, for a split second, there is nothing wrong between us anymore. Nothing hurting us; Nothing tearing us apart. He just loves me and I love him and nothing else matters.\n"Taishiro," I'm barely able to breathe out, my chest squeezing painfully as I press his hand more firmly to my cheek. I just want to feel that warmth a little longer...\nBut that shimmer gold clouds over once more and his lips turn down.\nMy pain increases exponentially as he pulls away. It's not rough or angry, he just slides his hand from mine, backing away a couple steps before placing the cloth down on the sink again.\nA new tear springs to my eye and I wipe it hastily away, mentally beating myself for having even tried anything. I knew what the outcome would be. That will always be the outcome.\nHe swallows thickly before opening the door. "Well I... need to go. Tell Zawa I said hi."\nI consider reaching out for him. I even lift my hand up to do just that. But I stop short. That'll only hurt me more and I can't keep doing this to myself; to him. I have to let him go.\nI lower it again. "Okay."\nThen he sweeps out of the bathroom and all I hear is heavy footsteps as he heads down the hall and stops to say goodbye to Eri.\nBefore I know it, the front door opens and closes again, signaling his departure.\nI clutch my chest as pain radiates from my heart, weakening my entire body. I want to go lay down. I want to cry. I want to chase after him and beg him to forgive me one more time.\nBut instead, I pull myself together, fixing my hair in the mirror, and going back out to Eri to help her with her bujo once more.\nTaishiro\n"So," Maki appraises me with unsympathetic eyes as she stands in my office doorway, hand on her hip, "What are we doing with that office?"\nShe jabs her thumb toward the office next to mine. Aiko's office. Well... her former office, though it's still exactly the way she left it.\nMaki is still acting hostile toward me and I can't figure out why. I know it has to do with Aiko's sudden departure but can't figure out anything past that.\nI just sigh heavily, rubbing at my eyes. "I don't know. I haven't figured it out yet."\nShe sniffs disapprovingly, tapping bright red nails on the doorframe. "So you're just gonna leave it to rot and pretend no one ever worked there."\n"I never said that," I growl with frustration. Why is she on my back about this all of a sudden?\n"Well then why don't you hire another sidekick? Put them in there? Change all the stuff around? We're trying to forget she was ever here, right? Might as well start with that office."\nMy teeth grind together as I look up at her still wearing that judgemental face.\n"Not right now, Maki. I said I'd figure it out later."\nShe just rolls her eyes. "I'll just get started throwing the other stuff away."\nShe pulls back from the door frame, turning to head toward Aiko's office and fling her door open.\nPanic rips through me when I hear her start rummaging around in there and I'm out of my seat before I even realize what I'm doing.\nWhen I enter the office, a stab of anguish pulses through me and the panic only grows as I see her pulling a calendar off of the wall and unceremoniously dump it in a trash bin.\n"Stop! Stop!" I cry out, rushing forward to grab it from the can. "Don't touch this stuff!"\n"Why?!" Maki snaps, anger still flashing in her eyes, "She's gone, Fat. She's been gone for weeks. It's time to get rid of it all. You wanted her gone. She came in here crying over you, wanting to fix things and the next thing I know, she's gone, out of your life. Done. SO BE DONE WITH HER!"\nMy heart compresses in agony at the way she accuses me.\n"You don't understand. You don't know what happened." I rasp out.\n"I don't care," she says in a slightly calmer tone, "She's done a lot of things, Fat. And so have you. You lied to her for months for goodness sake. But I'm not here to tell you you have to take her back. I'm just tired of you moping around here acting like everything is so hard for you when we all know it wasn't mutual. You chose to end it. So just get her back or let her go but stop with this."\nShe motions to me, my hunched posture, my downtrodden face.\nShe's right. I'm sure Aiko is doing her best to move on. I should be too. I want so badly to hang on to these things we shared. I want to believe maybe... we'd at least be friends again one day. Could that ever be possible? Could there ever be a world where I could be around her and not want to touch that gorgeous face of hers?\n"I'm sorry, Maki. You're right. Clean out the office if you really want to." I set the calendar on the desk and turn back toward the door.\nWhen I'm nearly through the doorway, she shuffles out past me first.\n"It can wait until we find another use for it," she sniffs airily, "But it will be cleaned out then."\nI nod in response, giving her a grateful smile, "Thanks, Maki. I promise I'll do better."\nShe nods back to me, her expression still not forgiving yet but definitely less severe, then moves toward the steps to take up her seat at the front desk again.\nNerves wrack my body as I knock at Aizawa's door. It's been a long time since I've been here and now that she's here...\nThe door swings open and Aiko is already in front of me, fire lighting her eyes and burning through me. "Aizawa is out at the moment-"\nShe cuts off when she realizes it's me, her face instantly freezing into a mask of solemnity.\nI hadn't expected to see her first thing either and it takes me a moment to recover. She looks... so much more vibrant than I expected.\n"Oh," I say awkwardly, having to look away from her glowing aura, "That's okay, I guess. I just wanted to bring some stuff... for the baby."\nShe doesn't answer. Just stares at me with that same expression.\nIn actuality, I just wanted to check on her and make sure she was okay; that the baby was okay. There are nights that I wake up in a panic, afraid something's happened to her again when I don't find her next to me. I know Aizawa wouldn't treat her poorly, I just... had to make sure.\n"It didn't seem right to make Red and Steel do all the work that should be mine. I'll bring you things if you need them and I'll get you the best doctors or whatever you need. I'm here for you."\nShe takes the box from me but is still silent, her face growing dimmer by the second. I knew showing up like this unannounced would be a mistake. What was I thinking?\n"I can just... I'll go."\nBut Eri's voice peals through the uncomfortable silence, "Fat Gum-san!" And Aiko seems to jolt from whatever unfocused state she was in.\n"You can- come in. If you want," she speaks with very little indication of what she'd prefer I do.\nAs Eri runs up to me, I kneel and grab her up into a bear hug, relishing the giggles of the bright-eyed girl.\nWhen I focus on her again, Aiko's already moved away and is setting the box on the table already. Since she already invited me inside, I follow, sliding my shoes off after shutting the front door and carrying Eri to the table as well.\nThere are stationary supplies stacked up all over it and a brand new bullet journal is laid out there. She was showing Eri how to make her own bujo... And based on the little girl's purple nails, she's been doing all kinds of other things with her as well. She's fitting right in here. Does she see how wonderful of a mother she's going to be?\n"Oh, you were making a journal?" I ask Eri, setting her down so she can show me.\n"Yeah!" she holds up her already stickered journal to me, "Aikonee-san was teaching me how to make a bujo and it's really cool! We're gonna make a page for me to keep track of the cats sleeping on my bed and what movies we've been watching and a page for all the students in Zawatou-san's class."\n"That's amazing," I say, glancing at Aiko as she looks through the box I brought.\nHer face is still mostly stuck in that solemn expression, though her lips quirk up every once in a while at the baby blankets she's going through.\n"I was able to ask some vendors for some items and they were all too happy to send me as much baby merch as I wanted," I tell her, coming closer, and she jumps.\nShe ignores my statement though. She's being so quiet... Does she hate it? Is she mad at me for leaving her at the hospital? I called her mother and I waited for Aizawa to arrive before informing him of what happened and leaving. I couldn't stay. I still feel guilty about it but she completely destroyed me and every dream I had about our future together in the five minutes it took to drive to that hospital.\nI'll never forget the way she pulled away from me, how much she hated herself when she told me the truth. She really did cheat on me. There was no forcing or coercion on Tomoyo's part or Kenji's part. It was all her and she knew it.\nI have to push those thoughts to the back of my mind as she pulls out the tiny onesie of my costume jacket, her face paling.\n"I hope it's okay," I say, fidgeting, "I just... want them to be proud of their dad-"\nShe drops the outfit back into the box and takes off down the hall, slamming the bathroom door shut a moment later and I hear some pretty graphic sounds of her vomiting.\nLooking back down at Eri, she wears only a mildly concerned expression.\n"It's been a while since she barfed like that." She looks up at me. "Being pregnant isn't fun. I don't ever wanna be pregnant."\nI can't help but smile down at her. "Well thankfully that's not something you'll have to even consider any time soon."\n"Yeah. No babies for me," she sits back down at the table to continue on her bujo, "But you should go see if she's okay. I don't want to. Too much barf."\nI snicker lightly at that. At least she knows herself so well already.\nI make my way down the hall now and the sounds of her heaving slow to a stop. She must've gotten everything out\n"Aiko?" I ask, knocking on the door.\n"Go away," I hear her muffled voice through the door. Is she crying?\n"Can I come in?"\nI can't stand how strained her voice sounds when she replies, "I'm gross." and the toilet flushes.\n"That doesn't matter to me and you know it."\nI've stood with her before when she's thrown up. I've soothed her back to sleep. I've held her when she was spiraling and she's saved me when I was nothing but a lifeless pulp. A little bit of vomit isn't going to bother me.\nI crack the door open and when she doesn't immediately yell at me to leave, I open it further.\nShe sitting on the floor, hunched over the toilet bowl, her cheek resting on the seat.\n"Ai-chan," I say softly, leaning over her.\nShe looks up at me with wet, mournful eyes and it shoots my heart through. This woman looks so different from the one who greeted me at the door.\n"I didn't know your stomach was still so sensitive. Are you okay?" I lay a hand at her back between her wings and they shudder slightly, sending a small thrill through me. I still react to her so much.\n"Yeah," she says, "Sorry. I hope Eri wasn't scared."\nI hold out a hand to her. "Let's get you cleaned up, okay? Don't worry about Eri, she understands and she's working on her journal again. You're fine."\nFor the first time today, her skin meets mine as she takes my hand and all of my nerves jump to attention, my stomach tightening at the feel of her delicate hand in my own.\nI pull her to a stand and swiftly turn away to busy myself, getting a washcloth out of the cabinet and wetting it down.\nWhen I bring it to her face, she shivers from the cold and keeps her eyes turned away from my face. She seems so frail now but I know that's not the case. This woman is powerful and monstrous if she has to be. But so much has happened, both to her and between us, she's doing her best just to recover. And I had to come in here and make things harder for her.\n"I'm sorry this is so hard on you," I say, still wiping the tears and drool away from her face.\nShe keeps her eyes turned away, watching my hands as she answers, "It's okay. I'm doing okay."\nI pause for a second, trying to absorb that. I know she's doing okay. She's doing so much better than I thought she would. She is so strong and I envy her every single day for it. Why can't I just have her back? Why can't I just forget? Can't what happened to her happen to me and I just be made to forget finding her in that bed? I would do it in a heartbeat. I want to so badly. Just let me have her back without all of the doubts hovering in my mind!\nI start up again, realizing I've zoned out for a second. Of course I can't have that. Nothing is ever that simple.\n"Good. That's... that's good, Ai-chan," I murmur, hating that I'm both jealous and resentful that she is so okay.\nI need to move on from this. I can't take the direction this conversation is turning.\n"I... hope you like the stuff I brought," I say, "I'll bring more if you want. I'll get a crib and everything too. Whatever you need."\nShe smiles briefly at that and I think my heart might squeeze the air from my lungs. She is still so stunningly beautiful.\n"Thank you, Tai," she whispers, bringings her hands up to hold mine.\nI freeze.\nMy heart is beating wildly and I can hardly think or breathe or talk when she finally lifts her amethyst eyes to meet mine.\nShe might as well be holding my heart instead of my hand with the way it squeezes along with the pressure she puts on my hand, holding it against her cheek.\n"Taishiro..." she breathes out, her eyes shining with longing.\nThis woman is the love of my life. I know she is. She is everything I never knew I wanted and never dreamed I could have. She fits me in every way possible. And now she's the mother of my child too. Things could be so perfect if she just... If she just...\nAn image of her face, so peaceful, so heavenly, lying next to another man crosses my mind. And then another of how beautiful she looks every time I've made her orgasm. The way her wings fan out and her back arches and that angelic groan that comes from her throat. Someone else got to see that part of her. They saw it when she'd agreed for it to only be me. They saw it when she was already carrying my baby.\nAnd now I feel sick, my heart plummeting.\nI pull away, slowly, painfully.\nI shouldn't have even touched her. I know how weak I am for her and I still touched her.\nLaying the washcloth on the vanity, I turn toward the door, swallowing down the lump in my throat.\n"Well I... need to go. Tell Zawa I said hi."\nShe looks like she might try to stop me and I hope to all that is holy that she doesn't. It hurts so badly every time I have to hurt her. And again I wish for that sweet oblivion of forgetting.\nBut she doesn't try. She lets me go. And I think it might hurt just as much to know she's finally giving up.\n"Okay," she croaks out and I take that opportunity to leave, telling Eri goodbye before hurrying out the door.\nI don't slow until I've gotten off of the UA campus and am on my way back to the station. What an idiot I am.\nIt's been a couple weeks since that day at Aizawa's place.\nI came back home and, for some reason, was more devastated than ever to not find her there waiting for me.\nHer scent is gone from every corner of the apartment. Her clothes are gone. Every part of her presence is gone. And after seeing the way she brightened Aizawa's home, walking into my own felt like a slap in the face.\nSince then I've done my best to just exclusively focus on work. I wake up and come to work and when I get home, I take a bath and go to bed.\nWith that schedule, I haven't had time to think so much about her.\n"It seems quiet today," Steel says, scanning the area as we patrol our district.\n"Aww man, don't say that," Red groans, "You're gonna jinx us. Now something will for sure happen."\nSteel narrows his eyes at him. "Don't we want something to happen? Don't you want to catch a villain?"\n"It would be preferable if we were completely useless and unneeded," I chime in as I watch a lady biking with her toddler, "We want it to be peaceful like this."\nBoth Red and Steel gaze up at me with admiration. They're always pleased when I seem like I'm more myself. I must have been really worrying them lately. They don't understand and I can't explain why Aiko and I aren't together anymore, especially when both of us are upset over it.\n"Fat Gum-san?" A woman's voice pulls my attention away from the boys and I look down just before I run straight into the woman standing directly in my path.\nHalting suddenly, I flail as I nearly topple over and the mousy-haired woman in front of me laughs.\n"Manami-chan," I say with surprise. I haven't seen her since Fashion Week, though I do remember Aiko pointing out that she'd seen her around my neighborhood. "It's been a while."\n"Yeah..." she replies, looking away with a small blush, "I was just coming here to visit a friend. I guess I forgot this was your district you patrol. It's cool to see you in your hero costume, though."\n"Uh... thanks," I rub at the back of my hooded head, giving an awkward laugh. And awkward is the perfect word for it. I'm not quite sure how to interact with a girl I rejected in favor of the one who's gone from my life now.\nThe boys look from me to her and then back again, their faces not at all hiding their bewilderment.\nWhen I see her notice them, I hold a hand out to each of them to introduce them. "These are my work study students, Red Riot and Real Steel. Boys, this is Manami-chan. She... was I guess, one of Aiko's coworkers."\nManami's eye's grow saddened at my mention of her name. "Mizuki told me what happened to her. That was... so awful. And after having gotten kidnapped once already."\nI nod once, still ashamed that I allowed something like that to happen to her a second time. I let my guard down for just a little while. I let her go with no protection. So stupid!\n"I heard about you and Aiko getting together," Manami goes on, "I was happy for you that you got her to notice you. I told you that if anyone would, it was you."\n"You were right, I guess," I say half-heartedly, my heart growing heavier the longer we discuss her.\nHer lips turn down. "I also heard what happened with you and her. I'm sorry Fat Gum-san. I really... thought you were good for her."\nMy jaw tightens and I have to clench my fist to keep any of my feelings from outwardly showing. I really don't want to keep talking about this. Especially not in front of the boys.\n"It's... fine. I guess it just wasn't meant to be," I try to end the topic there.\nShe nods, looking down at the ground. "I hope she learns her lesson and maybe does better next time. You didn't deserve-"\n"It's fine, Manami-chan," I cut her off.\nShe knows what really happened? It's likely Mizuki, the girl who was imprisoned with Aiko, learned it from her and told her that too. I just wish she wouldn't bring it up here in front of the boys, though.\n"I'll be okay. I just want to move on."\n"Sorry," she says bashfully, realizing her misstep, "I didn't mean any offense."\n"It's fine. It's just... still very fresh so I just don't really wanna talk about it."\n"Right. Right. I'm sorry," she bows lightly, "My friend is waiting for me anyway so I'm just gonna head out."\nShe lays a small hand on my arm, meeting my eyes, "It was good to see you again, Fat Gum-san. I-If you need anything..."\nShe hands me a business card that I take out of habit and then brushes past us, leaving a light floral scent in her wake.\nThere is a pause in which Red and Steel watch her walk away, then look at each other with truly disturbed expressions.\nOh boy... here it comes.\n"What was she talking about, Fat?" Red asks, disbelief in just eyes, "What did she mean you didn't deserve something?"\nI don't know if I've ever seen him or Steel so upset before. Why did she have to say something like that in front of them?\nSighing, I massage my forehead, feeling a headache coming on. "I don't really feel comfortable sharing it. It's between Aiko and me."\n"But... Fat-"\n"I can't do this right now boys," I cut Red off, "I know you miss her- I miss her too- but she's not coming back. We're done."\nThe hurt on their faces is only a small reflection of my own. I've never admitted that before. I've never said straight out that she's gone forever. And now that I've just suddenly let it out, it feels like heartbreak all over again.\nShe's really not coming back...\n"Let's head back," I say, "I need to finish filling out some paperwork. There are new applicants wanting to intern this year."\nI start forward to continue our way to the agency but only take a few steps before I realize the boys aren't with me.\nTurning back, I find them in a little huddle before they notice me watching them.\n"Fat, I think I might've dropped something while we were walking," Steel says hurriedly.\n"Yeah, we're gonna go look for it," Red chimes in, "You head back and we'll catch up in a little bit."\nMy brows turn down in concern. "Do you need any help?"\n"Oh! No! Don't worry about it, Fat! Just go back and handle your stuff, we'll be back in a sec!"\nSuspicion grows in me at their sheepish faces. Part of me wants to question them further about what it is that was lost and how long they'll be gone but my willingness just isn't up to the task. They're good kids, as Aiko pointed out to me so long ago. I know they won't get themselves into any trouble.\n"Alright," I concede, "I'll see you back at the agency."\nThey both nod and then run off back the way we came with a wave while I turn and continue on my own way.\n"FAT!" Red's panicked, nearly screechy voice reaches me less than a half hour later.\nThe tone is so urgent that I practically throw myself down the stairs as I hurry to see what the commotion is. I've only ever heard his voice like this in dire situations.\nAs I descend, I see both him and Steel bent over, panting. Did they sprint all the way here? What's got them in such a state?\n"What? What's wrong? What happened?!" I ask anxiously, my eyes darting around their forms, trying to discern if either of them's been injured.\nSuneater's also risen from his desk, approaching with a worried expression.\n"You have... to see this, Fat!" Steel pants, holding his phone out to me. There's a paused video on it of what looks to be the streets we walk on patrol.\n"This is what you're screaming about?" I ask incredulously, "A video? What's it of?"\n"WATCH IT!" They both snap in unison, their tone gravely serious.\nGlancing at Suneater, he gives me a shrug before I look back at the phone, taking it from Steel's outstretched hand.\nHe taps the screen once and a video begins to play.\nIt seems to be from today. In fact, I think this was recorded only minutes ago...\n"Was this what you were doing when you were 'looking for that item you dropped'?" I ask, somewhat annoyed that they'd lie to me to be doing this.\n"Yes," Red answers desperately, "But just watch, Fat. It's important!"\nMy eyes return to the screen. It looks like the phone was hidden away in his pocket but the camera just barely peaks out enough to give me a view of whatever the boys are facing.\nThere's a lot of jostling so they must be in a hurry.\n"Why do we need to record this?" the Steel in the video asks.\n"Evidence," Red says, though he's off the screen. He must be at his side, "She knows something. It might not lead to anything but we need to be sure."\nSteel doesn't ask anymore questions as they come up on a familiar figure.\n"Manami?" I eye them even more suspiciously, "What are you-"\n"Watch!" Red points at the phone again urgently.\nAgain I look at the small screen.\n"Excuse me," I see a hand lightly tap her on the shoulder and she turns, surprised.\n"Oh! You two! You're Fat Gum's students, right?"\n"Right."\n"What can I help you with? Did he need something from me?" She asks with a saccharine smile.\nI can still see neither boy in the frame, just an angle looking up at Manami.\n"Oh. No, he doesn't need you. We actually just wanted to ask you about something," Red continues when she looks at him questioningly, "You said something about... Ai-senpai. About Aiko. You said he didn't deserve something."\nHer smile fades a little. "He didn't tell you?"\nA sickness pools in my stomach. Oh no... they went to ask her about Aiko? Why? And why are they showing this to me?\nI keep watching, hoping for the answers.\n"No," Steel's voice is forlorn, "He said they broke up but didn't say why or what happened."\nManami's pleasant face grows darker. "I see... Well I could tell you but if he doesn't want you to know..."\n"No!" Red cries out, "No! We need to know! I need to know why they're both so sad! I need to know what's going on!"\nShe seems hesitant at first but quickly comes to a decision. "Okay. But don't tell Fat I told you."\nWell... so much for that promise...\n"Done," Steel agrees almost immediately.\nManami looks back and forth between them and seems to deem them trustworthy, then pulls them a little further from the sidewalk toward a more private space between two buildings and eyes them once more.\n"From what I heard, she cheated on him," she says, looking around like it's some big secret no one else should know, "He found her in bed with another guy and kicked her out."\nMy heart stops cold in my chest. How does she know that? Did Aiko say that much to the other girls? She seemed so ashamed. How could she?\nThe camera turns a little to the side and I see Red's disbelieving face for just a moment before it turns back.\n"That's not true," Red says firmly and for some reason it makes me feel slightly better that he wholeheartedly dismissed it so easily.\nManami doesn't look so pleased, though. She seems perplexed.\n"You don't think she did?"\n"No," he replies easily, "There's no way she did. She loves Fat and she loves us too. We're like a family."\nManami frowns at that. Why does she seem like she's getting frustrated at his rejection of her gossip? That's all it is to her.\n"Well, I don't know what else to tell you. It's true. That's why they're broken up. She cheated on him all the time. I'm surprised you couldn't tell."\nWhat? All the time? Why is she saying that? It was just once wasn't it?\n"No," he tacitly refuses to believe her and it only seems to frustrate her more, "She's never cheated on him. I've seen the way she looks at him and I was there with her when she was trying to keep him away to protect him. She would do anything for him, even sacrifice her happiness for him. She wouldn't do that to him."\nManami's wholesome demeanor seems to wither as her annoyance turns to out and out dismay. She's not so sweet as Aiko seemed to think she was and she definitely doesn't like someone rejecting a rumor she's trying to spread.\n"Well what if I told you I saw it myself?" she offers to my utter astonishment, "I've seen her with other guys."\nThe boys are silent. Probably stunned. I myself admit that I am completely speechless. She's seen Aiko with other men?!\n"That's a lie," Steel counters, sounding hostile.\n"It's not," she snaps, every drop of that sweet facade gone. Her eyes are sharp and ruthless as she goes on, "I saw her go into a date cafe with some other guy. I've seen her even bringing Fat Gum's sidekick into her apartment! And a few weeks ago, she was with another guy! They were getting all familiar at a cafe not even five blocks from your agency!"\nHeat like that of a flame flares up in my chest as I grip the phone tighter. Has she been stalking her? Stalking us both?\nSomething tells me that my running into her today was no coincidence at all.\n"Suneater would never do that! We've been in her apartment too!" Red says, unable to hide how frantic he feels. I can't blame him.\n"You're being just as blind as Fat is," she sneers with resentment. She's been harboring this anger for a long time. Could she possibly have been from the moment I told her I care about Aiko? "She's not perfect and she's not interesting. She's just a slut who-"\n"Don't talk about her like that," Steel growls dangerously.\nManami calms a bit at seeing she's finally hit a nerve and she affects a haughty attitude now.\n"She is, though. I bet she slept with him the first night she met him. Then she barely thought about him until she realized his hero status would make her more famous."\n"That's not how she is," Red's tone is defensive.\n"Who's known her longer?" She crosses her arms in front of her chest.\nThe boys don't have a response to that. They seem defeated.\n"You should be thankful to me, though," Manami continues, "I didn't let her get away with it."\nShe what?!\n"You what? What do you mean?!" Red speaks what's running through my head.\nA more sadistic smile than I would've imagined her cherub-like face was capable of pulls at her lips. She considers them for a moment then lifts her brows with intrigue.\n"I was tired of seeing her run around on him. He doesn't deserve that. But I knew that if I just told him without proof, he wouldn't believe me. He's just too infatuated with her. He thought she could do no wrong. Well I made her show him the truth."\nI think I might throw up. My eyes are glued to the screen of the phone, practically unblinking, waiting on her every word.\n"What did you do to her?" Horror laces Red's voice now.\n"I have... ways of being persuasive. I did Fat a favor. I only told her to be honest."\nThere's a pause where the boys have to be reacting to this.\nThen Steel says, "Honest about what? What did you tell her to say?!"\n"I saw those two at the cafe and I interrupted their little tryst. I... persuaded her to let Fat Gum-san find her sleeping with that guy and then tell him what she's been doing with him and all the other guys she's been with."\nMy whole body goes rigid at that. She persuaded?\n"But she hasn't been doing anything with anyone! She loves Fat more than anything else in the world!" Red practically shouts at her.\n"Then why did he kick her out?" She counters with a small smirk like she's checkmated them.\nThe boys are quiet in response. They don't know the answer to that. I do. And it feels like I'm dying when I think back on it.\n" The most I've ever done with anyone else without you there was go shopping! "\nI thought it was a weird outburst back then but I was so upset I didn't ask why she said it. But this is why. That was her telling me everything she'd been doing with other guys.\nI'm a complete idiot.\n"But that's enough of that. I know you wanted answers, boys. Unfortunately, now that you've gotten them, I'll have to make you forget them."\n"Wait. What?" Steels gravelly tone questions.\n"I know you're just gonna run back to Fat Gum-san and tell him everything and I can't let you do that. He'll never trust me again," she puts a hand to her hip.\nHer voice already sounds different. Like it's luring them in to keep their feet planted.\nShe's using a quirk.\n"But... If you're so persuasive, why would you make her do that? Just make him want you instead. That's what you wanted, right?"\nHer face turns sour. "I wanted her to get her just deserts. I needed him to know the truth about her. And I can't change people's feelings. I can't make him hate her or love me. If I could I would've done it the night I met him instead of having to accept I was losing to someone I knew didn't deserve him. I can only make people do things. Not feel things."\nI grit my teeth. What a horrible, evil woman. She thinks she's benevolent and kind but she's just selfish and cruel.\n"Now, as I was saying," something in her voice changes again. It's hard to tell with the recording. I'm clearly not getting the full effect, "I'm gonna need you to forget everything I just said about Aiko and Fat Gum."\nRed's voice is light, almost dreamlike when he says, "You know... you ruined his life too. He's not the same without her."\n"Don't worry, sweetie. I'll fill that void for him," she scoffs, her voice still odd, "Now keep forgetting-"\n"Not like her..." Steel says, his voice fading, "You'll never be-"\n"Forget what we talked about here and go back to work. Don't worry about me anymore," she says with finality and the boys stop resisting entirely.\nThere are a few beats of silence, then her face changes and her voice is back to normal when she asks, "Can I help you boys?"\n"Uh..." Steels answer seems dazed, "No, I... guess not."\n"I think... we were just heading back to work from a patrol?" Red also sounds dazed.\n"Okay. Well have a good day!" She says kindly, waving before she turns and walks off. Is it just me or does her smile seem devious?\nThe camera turns as the boys head back the direction they came, passing a couple blocks before Steel inevitably pulls his phone from his pocket.\n"Oh hey, I was recording," he says curiously, "Whoa! It says I've been recording for like ten minutes dude! What do you think's on there?"\n"Well stop it and let's see!" Red's voice comes out excitedly.\nThat's where the video ends.\nAll I can do for a long moment is stare at the phone's screen, unable to move, unable to process.\nAiko, what have I done?\nShe fought that quirk with everything she had. Even her unconscious mind found a way around Manami's orders so she could stay true and I just... I just...\nI abruptly shove the phone back into Steel's hands and hurry to the door.\n"Fat! What-"\nI turn back a second, addressing all three standing there. "Save that video. Upload it to the server. We'll need it for evidence. Don't go near her again. I'll get back up."\nWith that, I fling open the door and take off at a sprint toward the train station, pulling my phone from my pocket to speed dial Aizawa.\nHe picks up on the second ring. "Fat-"\n"Where is she?!" I demand.\nHe doesn't act confused at all to my sudden urgent question. "We're in Osaka actually."\n"Good," I pant, nearly out of breath as I round the corner to the station and fly down the steps, "Because I need you."\n

Chapter 34:\nIt's been about a week since Taishiro came to drop off the baby items and he hasn't come back since. I doubt he ever will with how embarrassingly I behaved. Every time I think about it, I want to slap myself. What the hell was I thinking?! I got too caught up in my emotions and I let myself get carried away. My pain was my own fault.\nI tried my best to hide it from Shota when he came back with Shinso but he noticed almost immediately that something had changed. Eri just had to tell him that "Fat Gum-san" had visited and that was all he needed to know to get the full picture.\nSince then, he's pushed me harder to work at my training to keep me busy. We tried again (and still failed) to get fear out of him during a horror movie so he enlisted the help of someone else. Yamada-kun, another teacher at this school, turned out to be much more susceptible and my training to better detect and absorb fear has been going well. We'll probably be moving on to sadness next.\nI've worked hard to come to terms with reality. I've accepted it's over and I'm just hoping now that Taishiro hasn't completely written me off. If he'll give me another chance, I can act with more grace and less desperation. I'm sure of it.\n"Okay, let's see your wings," Shota says as we stand atop a building in one of the training yards. It's the weekend and everyone has the day off, yet a large portion of his class is standing below watching. Including Ei.\nTaking a deep, calming breath in, I reach deep into my energy pool, dragging a great deal of it out to transform my body. Horns begin curling from my hairline and I feel my claws extending. Most importantly, my wings expand, stretching out to an impressive size large enough to carry me.\nThis is the first time I've transformed without an intense emotion to push me and it does make it a little bit harder. But I think that all of this work I've done to control my energy absorption has also helped me to better control my energy expenditure as a result.\nThe scarring is far more obvious when they're at this size, dark lines running through them like cracks in glass. They don't hurt at the moment but does that really mean I'll be able to fly again?\n"How are you feeling?" he asks seriously, scanning the thin membranes for any obvious defects.\n"Okay for now," I say, flapping my wings carefully to test them. So far so good.\n"Do you want to try flying?"\nHe watches me carefully. His eyes are so analytical, trying to detect any hint of pain I might be lying about.\nI nod, stepping closer to the ledge before us.\n"A few of my students are ready to stop you if you fall so don't worry about trying to keep going if you're in pain," he assures me, laying a gentle hand at my back. "Are you ready?"\nI nod again, my heart thudding against my ribcage as I look down. My eyes seek out Ei, standing next to that shitty friend of his. Tetsu's come as well.\nThey're both screaming up at me, "You can do it, Ai-senpai!"\nWind swirls lightly around me, picking up my hair and making it dance behind me and it briefly rustles my wings.\nI wish Taishiro were here. I remember just how awed his face was seeing me fully in my demon form.\nHe really loved me. He really loved every single thing about me.\nI never deserved him. And now, I'll let him go. It's time to stop hoping.\nSpreading my wings, I barely even need to step off the ledge before the wind lifts me and I'm flying.\nI alternate between flapping to keep the wind beneath me and stretching out my wings to glide and soar. It's easy and not painful at all. It just feels like stretching a muscle that's been ignored for a while.\nI can fly! I can fly again! The sky is so blue and beautifully open!\nThe cheers of excitement from the ground reach my ears and I look down at the kids there, jumping around and flailing in celebration, Ei the loudest of them all.\nWhen I find Aizawa's form, now far below, he seems pleased, almost proud. And that's when I know...\nI can find peace again. Eventually.\n"Fujisaki-san!" A nurse calls my name to signal my turn.\nStanding, I make my way to the back with her and she goes about the usual vitals check. Weight, blood pressure, pee in the cup for some reason I forget. Then, she leads me to a private room to wait for the doctor.\nGoing to prenatal visits has been one of the best and worst things I've had to face these past weeks. I haven't enjoyed doing this alone and maybe that's why Aizawa came with me all the way to Osaka today, even if he does stay out in the waiting room. But I've also gotten to hear the heartbeat of my baby growing inside of me each time and feel reassured they're okay.\nToday, though, is one I've been looking forward to since the very first appointment.\n"All of your blood tests so far have been coming back with no issues at all, mama," my OB says with a gentle smile as she enters, scanning my chart, "I'm feeling really optimistic about your pregnancy being completely healthy."\nShe often updates me on the status of my pregnancy but no matter how many times she says it, I continue to be relieved when she tells me everything is normal.\nShe spends a little bit of time checking more vitals. Listening to my heart, my lungs, etc. And she goes over future tests I'll have to be taking soon.\nThen comes the part I've been waiting for.\n"Now how about we get a look at that sweet little one?" she says and I can't help the excited grin that spreads across my face.\n"Yes! Please!"\nLaughing, she rolls her sonogram into the room and starts to set it up.\n"Lay back and lift your shirt up."\nI obey, bunching my shirt up under my breasts. The bump there is hardly even noticeable. I'm not sure anyone just looking at me would even know I'm pregnant yet. But I can see it. I've started to see that little swell in my tummy. It could easily be mistaken for bloating but I know my body well enough now I can see the changes happening.\nShe squirts jelly on my abdomen and I'm pleased to find it's already warmed.\n"Okay," she says, reaching toward me with the probe.\nIt doesn't quite meet my skin when the door opens and the only person who could ever make me immediately forget what I've been so excited about steps into the room. A gigantic form obscures the doorway, still clad in his hero suit.\n"Taishiro..." I breathe out, confused but unable to contain the emotion I feel seeing him here of all places.\nHe's breathless, like he ran the whole way here. His eyes are bright with excitement and... and I don't know. I haven't seen him looking like this since before we... Before I ruined it all.\nI wasn't prepared to see him and already my emotions are running wild. I have to reign myself in. I said I wasn't going to embarrass myself anymore, didn't I?\n"Oh! Are you dad?" The OB asks warmly as he strides over next to where I'm laying.\nI haven't told her all of my situation. I haven't felt like I've needed to. But now I sorta wish I had.\nI look away from him, preparing for the blow of him denying or, worse, confirming but with some disclaimer of our relationship status.\n"Yes," he replies with no hesitation. Nothing else.\nI jump when I feel the warmth of his hand encompass mine and I look at him with startled eyes.\nSomething pained is there. Longing and regret and such tenderness that I have to look away or I think I might start to cry again.\nPlease don't look at me like that. Please don't touch me like that. I don't want to hope again.\n"Well you're just in time, dad," the OB says chirpily, not noticing the exchange between us, "We were just starting the ultrasound."\n"Perfect," his voice is kind and sounds so damn happy and it hurts me so fucking much more than I thought it might. He's happy... He's happy without me...\nI do my best to keep a neutral face as I watch the screen now, the doctor taking no time in locating the baby and zooming in.\n"There's baby," she says, sounding almost as in awe as I am. This must be one of her favorite parts of her job.\nIt looks far more like a baby this time than last. It hardly looked like anything more than a peanut with a heartbeat last time. But this time there are distinct legs, arms, and a head.\nTaishiro's gasp is audible and he leans closer to see, effectively leaning closer to me as well.\nI can smell his shampoo, the scent easily bringing up so many memories I want to push away again.\n"That's... that's our baby, Ai-chan," he chokes a little on his words and it feels like a lance through my heart.\n"Yeah," I answer, unable to keep a wobble from my voice as a tear streaks down my cheek.\nWhy is he here? Why is he acting so different? What's happened?\nThe OB takes a couple minutes to take measurements, making sure everything is growing at the rate it should be, but she lets out a shocked gasp at some point and I'm immediately alert, nearly thrown into a panic.\n"What? What's wrong?"\n"Nothing's wrong! Look, mama!"\nShe points to the screen and I can see a spine on the monitor but I can't make much more out than that. But then I see the tiny little bones poking out.\n"Wings," Taishiro says with amazement, "They have wings. Like you."\nWings? So they... have my quirk? Dread buries itself deep in my stomach, making it roll as though I were still in my first trimester.\nThis is exactly why I didn't want kids in the first place. I know I said before that our children would be able to make it through because they have Taishiro and I to guide them but now...\nI feel like I'm being ripped in half as heartbreak anew tears into me. They won't have what I wanted for them. Am I just being selfish here, setting my child up for failure? Am I just continuing the cycle?\n"Could we have a moment, please?" Taishiro asks the doctor who looks puzzled at the way my face has fallen.\n"Oh! Yes! Of course! Take as long as you need," she stands abruptly, shutting off the sonogram and striding from the room.\nWhen the door's shut again, Taishiro turns to me, understanding warming those amber irises, and I wonder again what's happened to change his demeanor toward me.\n"You're upset?" he asks, worry lining his features.\n"They have wings," I whisper forlornly. I cover my eyes with a hand as though it might shield me from this recent news, "They have my quirk."\n"That's okay-"\n"No! It's not! I told you. One of the first conversations we ever had, I told you I didn't want kids because I didn't want to pass my quirk on to them. But I did it anyway because I'm selfish and delusional. Tomoyo was right."\n"Tomoyo was not right," Taishiro's voice is deep, his eyes grave, "Don't ever say that. She was never right."\nRemoving my hand from my eyes, I turn my head to the side, "You don't know what it was like. Living with this quirk needing energy just to survive I wouldn't want that for someone I dislike, let alone my own child. They don't deserve this."\n"Ai-chan," Taishiro comes closer, taking my hand in his again. He waits for me to look at him before he continues, "Your quirk is beautiful. They won't go into it blindly like you were forced to. You know how to control it now so they'll have your guidance. You don't know how wonderful of a mother you're going to be but I can see it. The boys see it. Even Whitney saw it. That's why she helped you. Our baby will be surrounded by love and support and understanding from the start. Don't worry about them. Not yet. Grow this life and give it all your hopes and dreams first. This quirk isn't a curse. They aren't doomed if they have it. Give them a chance and see how they handle it first."\nHis words calm me somewhat. Does he really think I'll be a good mother? He has that kind of faith in me?\n"Why are you here?" I finally get up the nerve to ask, needing to understand what's really going on, "Why are you acting so... like this?"\nI want to say "like you care again" but I really just can't stand to hear him say he doesn't.\nHe looks away from me then, his grip on my hand tightening slightly.\n"Aiko," he says, his tone apologetic, "I saw Manami today."\nImmediate coldness grips my stomach and I can actually feel the blood drain from my face. Manami? Already?\n"No- no wait," Taishiro fumbles his words, "That's- Not like that. I mean... She meant it like that. I didn't. I could never-"\nShaking my head, I sit up to be eye to eye with him. My heart is pounding so wildly, it feels like it's about to burst from my ribcage.\n"What are you saying?" I ask, searching the depths of those golden pools.\nHe sighs, pushing his hood back as he runs a thick hand through his messy hair, "I ran into her on patrol today with the boys. When we went our separate ways, they followed her because they thought she knew something about why we broke up."\nThat coldness in my stomach seems to quickly spread as I realize what this might mean.\n"So they... they know now?" How did Manami know?\n"Well in a sense, yes. But it's not what you think. That's what I'm trying to tell you. They followed her and asked her about you and she ended up telling them everything."\n"Everything? What does 'everything' mean?"\n"Aiko... Ai-chan," Taishiro cups my cheek, sending warmth throughout my body that makes my heart ache unbearably. He sighs heavily, that guilty expression darkening his face again, "You never did anything wrong. You didn't cheat on me. Manami set you up. She has a quirk that essentially hypnotizes you and makes you forget she ever even did it. And I'm-" he has to pause, clenching his jaw as he looks just as agonized as I've been feeling these past weeks, "I'm so sorry I didn't trust you. I'm sorry I left you at the hospital to go through everything alone because I couldn't handle it. I've known you were hurting and vulnerable and I just couldn't cope and I'm sorry."\nI do my best to swallow down the lump that's formed in my throat as I watch his eyes glisten with unshed tears.\nI can hardly even process this information. I didn't do anything wrong? I didn't cheat?\nI know I should be enraged, furious that Manami of all people did this to me. I should want to know why. I should want to go find her and rip her head off. But it matters so little to me as I lift a hand to cover his own trembling one still at my cheek and this time he doesn't pull away. I'm ashamed at just how much hope I place in that small action alone.\n"You're- You're sure?" I ask shakily.\n"Yes," he answers immediately. There is no doubt there, "I'm 100% sure. She admitted to everything."\nI never realized how much heaviness I'd been carrying with me over this. The shame, the guilt, the self-loathing all wash away and a weight is lifted from my chest.\nOne question the most important question to me springs to my mind immediately.\nI'm afraid to ask but I also can't stand to sit in this limbo. Part of me feels like I'm back on that elevator so long ago, terrified to tell him I'm in love with him but also unable to stand another second of only being friends.\n"What does that mean for... for us? For them?" I lay a hand on my abdomen.\nTaishiro's eyes are still so agonized, I genuinely wonder if he's about to still turn me down and tell me he's gone this long and realized he's better off without me. All of this drama and suffering only happened the moment I stepped into his life.\n"It means... I'm ashamed of myself and I don't even know how to begin begging for your forgiveness. I want to ask you to come back but I'm afraid I messed things up so bad that you'll never want to be with me again."\nIt feels like my heart has stopped. The whole world has stopped inside of this one eternal second. He... still wants to be with me?\nI have to concentrate on taking breaths in and out as I stare into his eyes. They're so pained, so regretful. He wants me back. I can hardly believe it. I'm going to wake up from this any second, right? That's what always happens.\nBut I remain in this moment, holding his hand against my cheek.\n"Tai-"\nA knock sounds at the door and we jump apart as the OB pokes her head in, "Hello! Are we ready to continue now?"\n"Oh! Yes!" I pull back from Taishiro. I'd practically forgotten about the visit. We still have to finish the sonogram. "Sorry about that. Everything's fine now. Let's continue."\nTaishiro moves back to a more appropriate distance but takes hold of my hand again, pulling at the strings of my heart.\nHe continues to hold it for the rest of the visit, distracting me with the feel of his fingers curling around mine.\nI find myself glancing at him often, just making sure he's really still here. I'm still expecting to wake up from this vivid dream, alone in my bed once more. All Might knows I've had countless dreams like this in the past. Waking up those days were some of the worst.\nBut the dream doesn't end. My visit finishes and the doctor prints out a few photos of our sonogram "to show our family." Looking at them once again makes the reality of my pregnancy and the soon-to-be baby more pressing than ever. But it's not a bad feeling. Yes, it's scary, but an excited scary. Like walking into a room where someone's told you a surprise waits, though you're not sure what kind of surprise.\nAs we exit into the lobby, my eyes search for Shota but he's not there.\n"I asked Zawa to go ahead of us. I needed his help to catch Manami," Taishiro explains, steering me toward the exit, "She's powerful, Ai-chan. I don't even think she realizes how strong she is. You're amazing for figuring out a way around her orders. Even Red and Steel were overpowered by her."\nI have to admit I'm confused. I never even knew she had a quirk. She seemed so sweet and wholesome. I thought she was a good person. Or did she coerce me into believing that?\n"How do you know what she did if she overpowered them?" I ask as we step out onto the street.\n"They were smart and took a video for evidence. She didn't realize they were recording."\n"There's a video?!" I gasp.\n"Hang on," he pulls out his phone to check it, "I told them to upload it to the server and my phone is always remotely connected so..."\nHe pokes around on his phone as we make our way into the station to wait for the train. I'm not quite sure where we're going though. Probably to his agency, right?\n"Here." He hands me his phone with a video paused. It's the area he patrols.\nHe presses play and I'm immediately sucked into every word and the wicked expression on Manami's face.\nI've never seen her look like this before. She was always so kind. How could she say these things about me?\nSome small piece of me hurts over this. Why do so many people betray me? Am I that bad a judge of character? Do I attract these kinds of people?\nWhen the video ends, I silently hand the phone back to him and stare forward, trying to puzzle this out. She thought I was cheating on him this whole time so she did this to me? What would've happened if I had slept with Kenji? What if her words had been just slightly different?\nI can't dwell on that. "What if"s will eat me alive and there are more important things I have to focus on now.\nThe train arrives and we make our way onto it, sitting side by side.\n"Are you okay?" he asks gently, turning my way.\n"I'm just... tired of being stabbed in the back. I just wish I'd had even one genuine friend. Maybe Mizuki really was, even if she was an ass about you. I'm sure she feels differently now anyway."\n"Well, you have them now," he points out.\n"I suppose you're right," I say, idly stroking the tiny bump at my stomach as I've become more prone to do lately, "Shota has been kind to me. Thank you for asking him to take me in."\n"'Shota'?" Taishiro asks in a small voice, his eyes wary, "You two... got close."\nI can hear the question behind the comment. It's one he won't ask. He knows he has no right to. We were broken up. What I did with other people when I believed I'd never be with him again isn't his business.\nBut Shota is his friend also. I don't want it to be a mystery for no reason other than to be petty. I don't want to come between them.\n"I... I found another kind of energy to absorb," I say, concentrating on the hand at my belly, "He worked on it with me. I don't have to absorb sexual energy anymore."\nThat's enough of an answer without saying outright "I didn't sleep with your friend" and Taishiro doesn't miss that information.\nHe nods, looking away from me with a muted expression, "I... wouldn't have been mad, you know. I asked Zawa to take you in because I knew I could trust him not to take advantage of you in your vulnerable state. I thought that... if I had to accept you getting your energy from someone else, I'd want it to be him. I know that's selfish of me. I know I had no real say or right to choose but-"\n"It's okay," I say, trying to save him from further discomfort, "You don't need to explain yourself. I can't say I would've made that kind of choice willingly. I'm thankful. Really. He and Eri have helped me a lot. And they've been kind."\nI finally look up at him, confident now that I won't burst into tears or something else horribly embarrassing if I do, and he's looking at me, though not at my eyes. He's watching my hand as it strokes my stomach.\nWhy does that clench my heart harder than it would've if he'd just been looking at me?\nI still haven't given him an answer, I realize. He bared his heart to me and admitted he'd been wrong. He wants me back. He wants me in his life.\nIs this all it takes, though? I've lived without him for so long; And he's lived without me. Is there such a thing as going back to the way things were?\nHe's still watching my hand, his eyes filled with longing. Wasn't this part of his dream for the future? Children? A family?\nHe starts when I lay my hand on his, eyes finally breaking with my stomach to meet my gaze.\n"Ai-chan?" His look is quizzical as I pull his hand toward me.\nI don't answer him though and just place his hand at my stomach. Heat pulses through me when his palm connects with my abdomen, making my heart feel light and yet somehow heavy at the same time. I didn't realize just how badly I've ached for a moment like this, him touching my tummy, acknowledging our baby and wanting to touch both me and them. It means so much more to me than I ever imagined.\nTaishiro lets out a contented sigh. His touch is firm but gentle, telling me this is exactly what he wanted without having to say anything at all. It means a lot to him too. Obviously, there's nothing to feel there yet. Barely even a bump, let alone kicks. But it's the connection that lifts my heart. It's his touch, knowing that's his baby growing inside me and how pleased he is for that to be the case.\n"Ai-chan," he says again, this time more breathlessly as his fingers curl in my shirt, pulling me ever so softly closer to him.\nI lean with his tugging and he lays his forehead against mine, eyes closing, resting, peaceful.\nSomeone clears their throat and I notice a few people side-eyeing us. Shit! We're still on the train after all and I've just now realized how inappropriate our proximity is.\nPart of me wants to say damn them all and just stay here like this with him, hearing him breathing so close to me, his hand pressed to my stomach. I could spend the rest of the day just feeling his hand in mine.\nBut I pull away, knowing that he has a public image to uphold. If he's lambasted for PDA on a train, who knows how that might affect his job?\nHis expression says he understands but there's a mournfulness to it. When he pulls his hand back, it keeps contact with my stomach until there's no more to touch and I can't help the flutter that sends through my wings.\nMy body already misses his touch when we're fully separated again. Was it really that easy for my heart to fall head-first into loving him again? Why is everything just that simple with him? He makes it so easy to love him.\nAn announcement comes over the speakers saying that we'll be arriving at our destination soon and I'm honestly thankful for it. Sitting next to Taishiro, not touching him, not looking at him, trying not to think about him has been difficult. Will I really be able to have him again? Is this nightmare really over?\nA few minutes later, we're stepping off the train and he's leading me as I thought toward his agency.\nAs I walk behind him on the street, I look down at his hand, swinging back and forth at his side as he takes his long strides. Could I take it? Would he think it's too soon for that? Why am I suddenly second guessing every little thing around him?\nThe Fat Gum-shaped building looms nearer and I see there's a commotion in front of it, drawing a small crowd.\nNoticing this as well, Taishiro picks up speed, nearly jogging the rest of the way there with me hot on his heels.\n"I haven't done anything!" a woman's voice shrieks that I instantly recognize as Manami's. She sounds half insane.\nWe halt at the edge of the crowd and Taishiro doesn't even think before taking my hand and pulling me behind him somewhat, shielding me from her view. I still peek around him, though, my curiosity getting the better of me.\nManami is fighting against the bandage-like cloth Shota has wrapped around her, screaming bloody murder.\n"Why are you doing this?! I don't even know what you're talking about! Someone help me! This hero's gone insane!"\nShota's eyes glow any time she opens her mouth, disabling her quirk. I don't know why he doesn't just wrap the bandage around her mouth too. That would be a quick way to shut her up. Maybe that would seem inhumane?\n"That's enough, Manami-chan," Taishiro says in a calm voice, "It's over now."\nShe seems to lose the fight in her, deflating when she sees him, and she bursts into tears.\n"Fat Gum-san! He's accusing me of things I didn't do! Stop him! He's hurting me!"\nShota's expression is dismayed as his eyes glow once more. "I'm not trying to hurt you. You're struggling and the cloth is chafing. Relax and it won't seem so tight."\n"I WON'T RELAX WHEN YOU'RE FALSELY IMPRISONING ME!" she screams, more tears leaking from her eyes.\nShe's furious. She probably doesn't understand why her quirk isn't working and now she's facing the man she tried to steal away; one she never realized she'd hurt deeply.\n"Fat Gum-san," she cries again, "Please help me!"\n"Manami," he says in an even tone, "We know you used your quirk on Aiko and Kenji. And we know you used it on Red and Steel as well. We have video-"\n"What quirk?! I don't have a quirk! Check the register! I don't know what you're talking about! Please believe me!"\nTaishiro does indeed pull his phone out, presumably to check the register as she says. As he does, Tamaki, Ei, and Tetsu emerge from the agency and Manami's eyes swivel to them.\n"Boys! You remember me, don't you? Tell this man to get off of me! He's accusing me of a crime I didn't commit!"\nEi's brows turn down in a V. He doesn't seem pleased. "I do remember you. You're the one who hurt Ai-senpai and Fat and then used your quirk on us to forget what you told us."\nManami's face is shocked, horrified, and she's looking more and more like a cornered animal with every second.\n"No! I-"\n"We have you on video!" Tetsu snarls, clearly offended that she'd gotten the drop on him like that.\n"She really doesn't have a quirk registered," Taishiro says, stunned, "She's registered as quirkless."\n"I told you!" Manami seethes, starting to squirm again, "I didn't do anything wrong!"\n"But how... How can that be?" Ei asks, "The video!"\nThe same way my own quirk wasn't properly registered... She never reported it. She was probably able to hypnotize anyone who noticed it out of remembering.\n"Maybe we were wrong?" Taishiro says thoughtfully.\nMy heart compresses painfully. He doesn't mean that does he? Is it all over already? Would he accept her word so easily?\nHe squeezes my hand, though, still folded in his, his thumb softly tracing lines on the back. Is he reassuring me? What's he trying to do?\nTaishiro steps forward then, pulling me along with him. "I'm sorry for the trouble this caused you, Manami-chan. You can let her go, Zawa."\nShota eyes Taishiro suspiciously but does as he's asked. Even though he doesn't know what he's up to, he trusts him.\n"Come on, boys," Taishiro says, leading me toward the door, "We were mistaken."\n"But Fat-"\nThey halt as their eyes, along with Manami's and Shota's land on me, following behind him.\nI'm not sure what their reaction is, though. I can only watch Manami as her eyes widen once more in complete shock.\n"Wh- What's she doing here?" she asks, dumbfounded, "I thought you broke up with her."\n"We made up," Taishiro says simply.\nManami frowns, her eyes darting between me and Taishiro and our hands clasped between us. "But- but she cheated on you, Fat Gum-san."\n"That's not your business," Shota chides in a warning voice.\n"It is!" she snaps, her voice rising once more. Then her wild eyes focus on me, nearly unhinged, "I saw you! I saw you with a bunch of other guys!"\n"Manami-" I begin but she cuts me off.\n"Tell him!" her voice echoes in my ears and my mind feels fuzzy somehow like there's a bunch of static in my head. I'm suddenly feeling dazed. "Tell him about all the other men!"\nThat's... that's a good idea. She's right. I need to tell him...\nBut something feels wrong. Why does my mind feel so slow? Why is something in me screaming?\nLooking around at everyone else, they all seem dazed too, even Shota. His eyes aren't glowing when she speaks any longer.\n"Tell Fat Gum about all the men you cheated on him with!" she commands me again and that part of me that's screaming gets louder as my mind grows more muddled.\nShe's right... I need to tell him...\nI turn to him and he's watching me. He's scared. Why is he scared? Nothing is wrong. I'm going to tell him the truth.\nHis eyes are misty and I recognize a tear rolling down his cheek. I brush it away, laying my hand there now. I don't want him to be sad. He'll be happy if I tell him.\n"It's just been you," I say with a smile, "It'll only ever be you."\n"That's not- That's not true!" she snarls, "Tell him the truth!"\n"I only want you," I say, my eyes never leaving his. There are more tears now. "I love you."\n"Tell him about the blonde guy at the dating cafe!"\n"Your brother was so scared," I laugh, "He was freaking out. He reminded me of Tamaki."\nTaishiro's tears are even greater now.\n"Tell him what you were doing with his sidekick in your apartment!"\n"I was lonely," I say, my wings drooping, "I missed you and I didn't want to be alone. I made him lunch a lot. And tea. Ei and Tetsu too. Just so I wouldn't have to be alone for a little bit longer."\n"You- You are cheating on him!" she wails, "That guy you were sitting with! You've been with him before!"\n"Kenji apologized and asked for a second chance," I tell him, "I turned him down and he accepted that."\nThe screaming within me grows louder still. Fight! Fight! Fight! Tell the truth! Tell him more than that! Remember! You fought last time! Remember?!\n"A-And then Manami sat with us."\n"No. No wait-"\n"She was kind. I introduced her to him. I felt bad for avoiding her before. I felt bad that she liked you and I couldn't give you up. I hoped that they might hit it off. But she... she told me to go to a love motel-"\n"Stop!" Manami screeches at me but my mind is clearing somewhat. I can remember. I fought this before. I fought so hard last time. It was all I could do to get around it.\n"She said to let you catch me sleeping with Kenji. But I... I didn't want to. I couldn't stop myself from going. I was so scared. I got undressed and I hated it. I didn't want him to see me. When we got under the covers, I couldn't take it anymore. I didn't want him to touch me. I didn't want to be there. The only thing I could do was suggest we sleep. It was the only thing I could think of and it still met her demands. He accepted that and we slept until you found us like she wanted you to."\n"Stop talking!" she screams, running at me and pushing me away from Taishiro. My mind is still too muddled to react quickly and I stumble back a few steps. "I don't know how you got around it but you tell him you cheated on him! Break up with him! You're not good enough for him! Go have sex with some random men like you used to do!"\nI don't want to though. I can't lose him again.\n"No," I shake my head.\n"Don't tell me no!" she hisses and her voice grows stronger in my ears somehow, it's making my head hurt, "I said go fuck some other guy!"\nSomething inside me breaks and my mind clears. Blinking, I look around. Everyone is still. Their eyes are barely focused as they watch me and Manami. I'm free... And I remember.\n"You. Little. Bitch," I growl, stalking forward.\nFear alights in Manami's eyes. "How-"\nMy claws don't even have to grow but my muscles strengthen as my hand snaps out to grab her by the neck.\n"You did this!" I roar in her face, "You stole my family from me! You ruined my life!"\n"Help!" she wheezes, barely audible, gasping for air that my grip denies her. She wriggles in my grasp, pulling at my arm.\n"Let them go," I demand of her, "And tell them the truth or next time I will choke you to death."\nI release her, allowing her to stumble back a few paces and now tears leak from the corners of her eyes.\n"You don't deserve him!" she snaps at me, massaging her bruised neck.\nMy tail whips back and forth in a frenzy, my blood boiling with rage.\n"You're right. I don't. But neither do you. At least I try to be worthy of his love. At least I would let him go and want him to be happy if he didn't want me." I incline my head slightly, looking down my nose at her. "Now let. Them. Go."\nI step toward her again, making it clear I'm not bluffing and she jumps back.\n"Fine!" she shouts and, that easily, the spell is broken.\nThe crowd around the office blink their eyes and look around in confusion. Even the boys and Tamaki look dazed but at least lucid now.\nShota quickly snaps his bandages around her again, this time not having any qualms about covering her mouth.\n"No quirk huh?" he growls with disgust, "Hasegawa Manami, you're under arrest for the unlawful use of a quirk, malicious use of a quirk with intent to harm, assault of a civilian and of a hero on multiple counts, and resisting arrest."\nManami doesn't fight him this time and just goes limp as he hauls her past the doors and into the agency.\nIt's hard to feel bad for her as she disappears further into the building. She meant to ruin my entire life. It's likely she really did believe I was cheating. The shock on her face when I told the truth was genuine. But she never even thought to confront me about it. She didn't trust Taishiro to listen to her. And when she was faced with the fact that I hadn't been cheating, she didn't give up, she intended to force me into it.\nNo. It's going to be very difficult indeed to forgive her for what she's done.\nWhen I turn back to Taishiro, he's still staring at me, though he's definitely alert now. Tears still stain his cheeks and his eyes are rimmed in red. It's a familiar look I know all too well. But this time they're not tears of pain.\n"Aiko," he breathes out, slowly lifting his hand and running a finger up my cheekbone, then down my jawline.\nHe lets out an affected breath but seems unable to say more. He's just staring down at me like he's seeing me for the first time. It sends shivers down my tail.\nI don't even know how to start speaking. I just said so much to him already. I blurted out all the contents of my heart without even wanting to. So what is there I can say now?\n"Fat!" Shota calls out to him, having returned to the entrance, and he seems to shake himself out of whatever he was considering.\nHe looks back toward Shota once, then glances back at me.\n"Hang on," he says hurriedly, "Wait right here."\nThough I'm not quite sure why he's not asking me to come inside with him, I nod and he steps away from me, turning to Shota and speaking with him for a few seconds.\nShota's eye's turn my way with a look of consideration and they soften somewhat when he sees whatever odd expression I must have on my face.\nHe rolls his eyes in a look that says "you're annoying but I'm letting you get away with it because I like you" and he goes back to Taishiro, waving him away.\nTaishiro lays his hand on Shota's shoulder, leaning down to say something else but stands straight again just a moment later. The expression on Shota's face doesn't change though it seems like he's making that a concerted effort.\nThen Taishiro makes his way back over to me. As he does, Shota meets my eyes. He smiles, though something in it is almost... sad?\nHe lifts his hand as if in farewell, then turns away before I can do the same and something in me feels a sadness at that as well. Why does that simple gesture feel so... final?\nA gigantic form blocks my view of him and I look up at Taishiro's earnest face, those amber eyes so deeply fixed on me as he takes my hand in his.\n"Are you okay?" He asks, trying to read the look in my eyes.\nThere's a tightness in my chest that grows the longer he touches me. It makes me so hyper-aware of this single connection between us and the intensity of his eyes on me.\n"I'm okay," I answer truthfully, "Maybe a little drained."\nHis fingers tighten and loosen around my hand restlessly and he seems anxious all of sudden.\n"I don't want you to have to stay here, especially with her in there..."\nHe trails off but his expression is still unsure. There's definitely a lot going on in his mind. Far more than is coming out of his mouth.\nI nod in agreement. I don't really want to be around Manami either. Everything is still too sore. I need time to cool off or, preferably, to never see her again.\nFinally, Taishiro seems to have made up his mind about whatever was bugging him and he lifts the hand he has ahold of, interlacing our fingers.\n"I want you to come home with me," he says, brushing hair out of my face\n"What?" I stammer, surprised, "Now?"\n"Now," he murmurs, his thumb softly caressing the back of my hand, "Please."\nHis eyes are a soft gold, shining with a request.\n"But... my clothes and- and all of my stuff is at Shota's house."\n"Do you... not want to come?" he suddenly hesitates, rethinking his resolve, "I won't make you. I know you never really gave me an answer before about... being with me again. I'm sorry, I assumed after what just happened. I know you were being forced to say how you feel instead of what you want. I understand if you don't want to."\nNow the time has finally come to give him a real answer. Now I really do have to decide if I'm all in and will try again or if I'd really rather stay with Shota in that easy life with no chance of having my heart broken again.\nA tiny voice inside me is telling me to hold myself back, protect myself, don't let myself get hurt once again. It's that same one who pushed every single other person away before I met Taishiro. It's the one who ran from him over and over again. I thought that voice had died. But here it is again, extending a hand, promising to keep me from hurting ever again.\nHadn't I just realized I could make it without him a few days ago? Is it really worth going back and risking never being able to come back from it next time?\nTaishiro is still watching me expectantly, looking more anxious by the second, and just seeing his face and how perfectly honest he looks at me, I realize there's no choice to be made really. I made my choice the moment I decided to see him again after the first night. And I've kept choosing him ever since. He's worth every risk I've ever taken and million more after that.\nMy hand grips his tighter and I see hope alight in his eyes that makes my heart burn brightly.\n"I want to try again. I want to go home."\nA smile, so broad and beautiful and fantastically him, spreads across his face and he pulls me to him, lifting me slightly as he envelops me in his arms. I let out a small, mirthful laugh, leaning into him and just taking his scent in. There is no place I've ever felt safer than here, wrapped in his embrace, his fingers running through my hair.\n"Thank you, Ai-chan," he whispers before pulling back and turning to lead us toward his apartment.\nI speed slightly to keep pace with him, as I've grown accustomed to. It's so wild that it's been weeks since we've been together but I just fall so easily back into the things I'm used to with him.\nFor the first time in a good long while, I see the beauty of spring as it gives way to summer all around us. It's nearly been a year since I met this man. Only a year... It seems so much longer than that and yet I feel like I could look back on this moment ten years from now and feel like it went by in the blink of an eye.\nAfter a couple blocks, I realize he still hasn't let go of my hand. It's still gently folded within his own.\nWhen my fingers twitch involuntarily at this realization, Taishiro glances back, a light smile still pulling at his lips. His face is so full of contentment and joy, it sends my wings into a flutter.\nI turn my face away as his eyes shift over my shoulder, heat creeping into my cheeks. Why am I suddenly feeling bashful about him seeing me so happy?\nHe's merciful, though, and just begins leading me down the street again, his hand infinitesimally gripping mine tighter.\nWe walk until his building comes into view and a mournfulness pulls at me as we make our steady approach. I want to live in this moment just a little bit longer; his warm hand surrounding mine, just leading me forward calmly, confidently. It has me recalling the night we met; how I rode on his back and felt a pang of sadness when it finally ended. It turns out, I've always loved the easy way he whisks me away like this.\nHe finally lets my hand go as he holds the door for me to step inside and we wait in slightly uncomfortable silence for the elevator.\nI keep wanting to steal glances at him. I don't know why. If it's my fear of turning and finding this was all a dream or just loving the way his cheeks curve when he smiles. Maybe it's the way my heart beats a little bit faster when he catches me.\nBut when he looks over at me, my cheeks always flush and I have to turn my head away again.\nThe elevator finally decides to grace us with its presence and Taishiro motions for me to step on first, then follows suit.\nAs he moves to the back of the elevator, his hand accidentally brushes my hip and I suck in a tiny breath when it sends a spike of heat ricocheting through my body, my tail curling.\n"Sorry," he says, hiding his reddening face in his hand.\nI shake my head quickly, unable to actually speak with the way my heart is pounding. I have to force myself to try and breathe normally as I bite my lip so hard, it nearly breaks the skin\nIs that really all it takes for me to suddenly be so hyper-aware of just how closely he's standing behind me? Are my pregnancy hormones going into overdrive? Why do I want so badly to feel his hand at my hip again but far less shyly?\nI need to calm down. We're supposed to be working on mending the rift between us, not getting all hot and bothered over-\nMy eyes gravitate toward him again only to find his on me this time. They meet for a few heated seconds before he finally looks away again.\nThis elevator suddenly feels too warm and I feel like I'm suffocating with the way my body is superheating all over. We have to be at his floor soon, right? It's not that high up! Is this the slowest elevator of all time?!\nAs if in answer, the chime sounds and I hurry out as soon as the doors open wide enough to fit through. It feels a little bit easier to breathe out here, especially now that I'm a good few feet away from him.\nTaishiro opens the door to his apartment a few heartbeats later and I hesitate a second at the doorstep, losing some determination.\nThe last time I was here, he was forcing me out, telling me he couldn't even look at me without feeling disgusted. It hurts to think back on that and stings all the more that, of all the memories we built together here, this would be the first to surface as I stand at his front door.\n"I'm sorry," he says once more, as if he can tell exactly what I'm thinking, "For saying all the things I said to you. I was hurt devastated really and I was mean to you. I'm not proud of it and I was ashamed the moment you left."\nI glance at him and nod, "I... I understand. I forgive you. I never blamed you for being hurt. I know I would've been far worse if our roles had been reversed."\n"Come in," he says kindly, laying a hand at the small of my back to usher me forward.\nNervously, I scan the room as I step inside. It all looks the same and that homey clean scent is just as apparent as ever.\n"I-I'm home," I say weakly, a wave of emotion washing over me when a responding whiny meow races down the hallway and then Bento is there, laying two paws on my legs as if to welcome me.\nTaishiro leans down toward me, his hand still at my back, and I can feel his breath on my neck when he murmurs softly, "Welcome home, Ai-chan."\nMy heart constricts with the way his words heal so much pain that's been residing in me since the day I left.\nI abruptly face him and our eyes lock again. There's so much in those golden pools. Regret, apology, adoration, and... and...\nHe's so close to me now, his eyes looking back and forth between mine as he moves closer still. Breathing has become difficult again.\nMy eyes drop to his lips for barely a second but it's enough to cause the scent of his desire to crash into me like a wave.\nTaishiros other hand goes to my cheek and he lightly strokes his thumb along my cheekbone.\n"Ai-chan, I-"\nI close the distance between us before he has the chance to say more.\nHis lips are so soft and pliant as he responds without hesitation and he takes the initiative of darting his tongue out to deepen the kiss.\nI don't need any further prodding, meeting the caressing of his tongue with my own and sucking in a breath when his savory flavor lands on my tastebuds.\nAll Might, how I've missed him. I've been spending weeks pushing these emotions back, boxing them up inside of me, telling myself I'll be okay. I had to in order to survive. But now I've let them go again, it feels like freedom and my wings fan out in agreement.\nHis energy flows into me like a torrent and it takes me an extra moment to regain my control enough to reduce the flow. It's so much easier now and I don't know if I could ever be thankful enough to Shota for giving me this gift; for giving me everything he has.\nTaishiro's lips leave mine and I whine in disappointment, wishing I could taste him longer. But they're on my neck a moment later and my breaths become more labored as they travel toward my collar bone.\nI yank at his jacket zipper, nearly breaking it off at the end, before shoving it and his gloves down his arms in one fluid motion. Returning his hands to my body, they quickly make their way to the hem of my shirt, tugging it upwards, careful of my wings as he pulls it over my head.\nA breath burst from his lips when his eyes take in my half-naked form. His eyes are a dark honey color, watching my chest heave up and down, still breathless from his attention at my neck.\n"God, you're gorgeous," he says, lifting his hand to trace the curve of my waist.\nHe kneels before me then, eyes trained on mine once more. Electricity zaps through me to see him like this, hands at my hips looking up at me reverently. His lips are parted as though begging to have something more to do.\nDigging my fingers in his soft, loose curls, I pull him ever so slowly toward me.\nHis face is at the level of my breasts, which he doesn't fail to notice as his scent grows stronger and his eyes slide down to focus on them.\nHis mouth opens wider every so often, begging to be able to put his mouth on me again, and heat pools between my legs seeing him so desperate. We want the same thing.\nHis hands are already fumbling with the hooks of my bra at my back, practically shaking in anticipation, when I finally pull his face flush with my cleavage.\nA groan sounds deep in his throat that sends my wings into a flutter as he finally gets the hooks unfastened and tears the fabric away in a flash.\nHis tongue is dragging along the soft underside of my breast while his hand finds the other, squeezing as gently as he can in such an excited state.\n"Tai," I whimper, loving the feel of his thick fingers sinking into my flesh.\nHe just groans again and I feel the heat of his tongue traveling upward now, halting to slowly swirl around my nipple.\nA gasp escapes my lips and I can hardly control the way my hands grip his hair even harder, pulling him even closer and I can practically see the smile he presses against my skin.\n"I-I'm sensitive, Tai," I bite out between breaths, "Be gentle."\nHe looks up at me with those deep golden eyes and rolls his tongue along my hardened peak. Gentle, just as I asked.\nFuuuuck... That way he's looking at me and the heightened pleasure I feel as his tongue glides across my nipple is making the ache between my legs nearly unbearable.\nI want him. I want to feel him inside of me again. It's been so long that I'm feeling starved.\nMy legs are shaking by the time he moves on to the other breast, giving it the same leisurely, sensual treatment as the other. But this time he closes his lips around my nipple and sucks at me very very gently.\nA cry of pure ecstasy is pulled from me and I have to squeeze my thighs together with how badly the ache between my legs has grown.\nIt feels so amazing. How could I have ever thought this was something I might've betrayed? What else in the world is there to seek out that he can't give me?\n"I need you, Taishiro," I beg him, "Please."\nHe pulls away from me slightly, eyes still burning into mine. "Not before I can taste you. I want you to cum on my tongue, honey."\nNow my whole body is trembling at that request. Oh god, I don't know if I'll even last that long with how wet I already am.\nHe takes my inability to speak as an affirmative and brings his mouth to my skin again, just below my breasts and begins moving lower, pressing his lips and occasionally, his tongue to my skin while his fingers dig beneath my waistband, slowly pulling my leggings down along with my panties.\nBy the time he reaches my belly button, both are on the floor and I'm naked before him at last.\nI don't know why I suddenly feel so vulnerable. He's seen me naked countless times before. He's done all kinds of obscene things to my body. But now it all feels so new.\nHis hands stroke up and down my thighs now, fingers grazing dangerously close to my wetness and making me want to beg for him to just touch me.\nBut his mouth is at the tiny bump in my abdomen and he pauses, pulling back slightly. He's noticed. Of course he would notice.\nHis hand goes to it, pressing his palm against my stomach as if he were trying to be sure.\nHow the hell does he make my heart burst with joy and at the same time make my core ache to feel him inside me?\n"Gorgeous," he whispers again, pressing a kiss to the small swell and kissing more softly now as he continues downward.\nHe backs me steadily up against the wall so I have something to lean against as he lifts one of my legs, hiking it over his shoulder and baring me to him so entirely, it makes my entire body heat, once again made aware of that vulnerability I feel.\nThen his tongue is gliding between my folds and he groans again, apparently enjoying my taste.\n"Tai," I gasp, clutching at his hair and he already has to hold me up as my knees go weak.\n"That's my girl," he pauses to murmur before dragging his tongue along my clit.\nHe sucks at it gently, causing me to cry out, and my back arches, my hips pushing into his face.\nThat only seems to delight him more as a warm chuckle rumbles in his chest and his tongue goes back to stroking me back to front, always stopping to give special attention to my clit when he reaches it.\nI can hardly stand. He's holding me up almost entirely and still his tongue is driving me insane. I can do almost nothing but moan in ecstasy as I hold tight to his hair, pushing his head between my thighs.\nHis tongue dips into my entrance suddenly and it has me bucking my hips against his face practically involuntarily. God, I want to be fucked so badly right now. I feel like my whole body is on fire.\nI'm fairly certain he's noticed too as I feel his hand gliding closer to my slit while he continues his lazy strokes along my folds with his tongue.\nWhen I feel his fingers at my entrance, everything goes still and I let out another cry of pleasure as he pushes them gently inside of me.\nHis own groan sounds when my muscles tighten around those fingers, imploring him to go deeper, and now his movements are far more feverish as he complies.\nHis fingers move inside of me, pushing and curling to hit my most sensitive spot before pulling away and starting all over again, while his tongue redoubles its efforts, and he focuses more on my clit now.\nHe wants me to cum. He's practically pushing me toward the edge and my body is so starved for this for his touch and for this intimacy that I have no ability to fight it.\n"Taishiro!" I whimper, my voice hitching up as I get closer to the edge, "Don't stop! Just like that! Please!"\nHe doesn't stop. He just works harder, sucking at my clit again and groaning along with my cries.\nI'm flying up and up and up and then stars burst before my eyes as I soar over the edge, my orgasm crashing into me, causing my wings to flap as I grip Taishiro's hair so tightly, I fear I might pull it out.\nI scream my pleasure as my body spasms and he has to hold my full weight before him when I just can't stand any longer.\nI ride each wave that crashes over me, panting, until my muscles begin to loosen and I can soften my grip on his hair.\nHe doesn't remove his mouth from my sex until every little spasm is over and I'm in full control of my body again. Then he pulls back, licking his lips with a fiendish grin.\n"I've missed that beautiful sound you make when you cum, sweetheart. You're just as delicious as ever."\nMy whole body heats again at his words and I can't hide the way his praise makes my tail curl.\nIt only makes him grin wider, though, as he stands and sweeps me into his arms.\nIt feels like my heart is singing when he holds me this way, just curled into his body. He's so warm and when I press my hand to his chest, I can feel his heart beating, seeming to sing to my own as well.\n"Let's go," he murmurs into my hair as he carries me away from the entrance and down the hall.\nBento's already made himself scarce. I'm pretty sure he took off almost the moment the kissing started. He's never been a big fan of the loud sounds that come from our love-making.\nAs he carries me toward the bedroom, I remember the first night I spent in this apartment. We were just friends then and he was comforting me after being attacked. But the way he slung me over his shoulder... Looking back on it now, I think that was the moment I started to realize my physical attraction for him; for this version of him. My heart was already getting entangled but when he carried me down this hall and leaned over me on that bed I... I wanted him to touch me. I wanted more. And I couldn't admit that to myself yet.\n"Here," he says, tenderly depositing me on his gigantic bed and crawling up to lay beside me.\nIt's a little bit discomforting to be completely naked while he's still mostly clothed but it's not hard to forget that with the way he smiles down at me. I imagine my own smiling face looks just as heavenly.\nI reach a hand out to lay on his chest, my fingers splaying along the planes of his muscle, and he covers my hand with his own.\nHe curls his fingers around my hand, blinking lazily. "I never thought I might see you in my bed again. I was lost every morning when I woke up without you."\nPain grips my heart. This was the exact way I felt as well.\n"I want you to know," he says softly, "That I wished every day to forget like you did. I wanted you back so bad I wished I just hadn't known. You are the love of my life, Ai-chan. You make my world brighter just by existing."\nMy chest is squeezing so tightly that my breaths are becoming more difficult. Tears sting the corners of my eyes as I keep staring into his.\n"I knew I wanted you the second I met you, beating that man down in an alleyway. And I knew I was in love with you when you were kind to that little girl who stopped us on the street. I've never stopped loving you since."\nMy tears finally trail down my cheeks, wetting the pillow I'm laying my head on. I love this man so fucking much. It's impossible not to love him.\n"Thank you," I choke out, "For changing my whole life, Tai. Thank you for saving me. Thank you for choosing me. I love you too. It will only ever be you."\nThose were the words I said when I was hypnotized by Manami. I was forced to say them then and spill out everything in my heart whether I wanted to or not. But this is something I want to say. It's something he deserves to know.\nThat beautiful smile returns to his face and he leans over me now, his hand caressing up my side.\nHis lips brush against mine and I can't help but smile at the way he's so gentle with me as he rolls onto his back, pulling me up to lay on top of his plush belly.\nWe stay like that for a while, just staring into each other's eyes as his fingers trace patterns on my back until I push forward to kiss him again, meeting his tongue with my own and tasting his delicious flavor once more.\nThat's all it takes for his delicate touches to turn more frenzied and his hands to trail down to my ass, digging his thick fingers into the soft flesh there.\n"Mmmm," I groan, grinding my hips against him as my tail whips back and forth, "You want your turn, big boy?"\nI rest a thigh between his legs, getting a sharp intake of breath from him when I brush it along his arousal straining against his pants.\nHe just growls in response, gripping my ass harder.\nI'm far too eager to satisfy him. I want to hear his moans of pleasure too. My body is already burning for him again. I haven't forgotten that I want to feel him inside of me. Just thinking about it has my core aching.\nI lift my body slightly as I pull his tank top up over his head and toss it aside. Now we're skin to skin and I know he can feel just how hot I am for him when his hips press upward, seeking more friction. He's just as impatient as I am.\nI sit up and turn around, letting him ogle my ass and feel how wet I'm getting as I work at unbuckling his belt and throwing it to the side, then start on his zipper.\nOne of Taishiro's hands finds its way back to my ass but the other grips my tail, pulling on it to drag my slickness across his belly and we both groan. Him at realizing just how drenched I am, me at the sensation of me dragged by my tail.\nI work faster at his pants, pushing them down his hips, closely followed by his boxers.\nThen his full length is freed, pulsing once and leaking a small, clear bead of precum from that delectable mushroom tip.\nMy heart races faster just seeing that gorgeous cock again. I can't help myself. I lean down to lick the tiny bead away and his whole body spasms, a growl rumbling deep in his chest.\n"Aiko," he grounds out, pulling my tail again. "Please."\nI wish I could tease him more get him really worked up and begging for me but I'd be torturing myself as well if I did that. I need him. Now.\nHe lets my tail go as I turn myself back around, straddling his hips.\nHis cock pulses again and he gasps when I slide my wetness along his length. His hands are shaking now as they settle on my thighs.\n"I want you so bad, Ai-chan," he breathes out, "I need you."\nMy movement stops and I tell he's holding his breath as I position him at my entrance.\nMy heart is pounding against my ribcage and wings are already fluttering wildly at my back as I sink slowly onto his length.\nIt's been so long, I've nearly forgotten just how much he stretches me.\nAn extended sigh bursts from his lips as I bury him as deep as he can go.\n"Oh... You feel so good," he says in a broken voice, "Aiko you're-"\nHe cuts off, his eyes widening momentarily as I begin to move, hardly lifting myself from him, just rocking my hips against his. My pace is agonizingly slow, grinding my hips into his, dragging him across my most sensitive spot within me.\nA small whimper escapes my throat as I continue moving this way against him. God, it feels so incredible to be filled by him again.\nHe stares at me as if in awe, his eyes half-lidded as I derive my pleasure from him and he begins to lift his hips to meet mine.\n"I've missed you," I sigh, my tail curling around his leg, "I've missed this."\n"I've missed you too," he moans, "So much."\nHe's begun guiding me more than I've been moving myself, his hands at my hips now and his own still lifting up to meet mine.\n"Taishiro," a pathetic whine comes from my throat, "Oh god."\nHe groans again as my muscles contract around him, already feeling my orgasm beginning to build. I'm trying to stave it off. I don't want this to end yet.\nOur speed picks up slightly and our breaths become more labored as we move against each other. Small cries issue from my mouth every time he hits a particularly pleasurable spot and each time he answers it with his own small grunt. He loves hearing me so wrecked.\n"Will you cum for me again, sweetheart?" he pants out, his golden eyes glittering. "Let me hear that pretty voice of yours."\nMy wings flutter again when he says that. How does knowing that what I do gets him so excited, get me so hot?\n"Yes," I whimper, my voice pitching up, "Yes, just keep fucking me."\nHe growls at that and the force of his thrusts grows stronger.\nI'm unable to hold myself back anymore. It's building up too high. I'm so close.\n"Cum inside me, Taishiro," I beg him, "I want to feel you."\n"Oh god," is his only response, his hips moving just a little bit faster. He's shaking again now and his muscles are tensing, he's close too. "Aiko, I'm gonna cum. Please."\nMy cries turn into short little screams that get louder as he moves faster still and I feel it now, my pleasure is at its peak, I'm about to plummet over the edge.\nMy muscles tighten around him as my orgasm comes crashing down on me and a deep, prolonged grunt issues from Taishiro, his cock pulsing inside of me as he fills me with his cum.\nAll I see are those dark golden eyes shining up at me as my wings flap and I spasm, clutching him for stability.\nWhen the waves of our orgasms subside and our breathing has relaxed, I'm still watching him, seeing my own love reflected in his eyes.\nThis really isn't a dream. He's really here. I'm really allowed to be happy again.\nEven though I know it'll make a mess, I extract myself from him and push up to kiss him again, holding his face between my hands.\nWhen I pull back, he's smiling at me. "You're adorable."\n"No I'm not. Hell I just fucked your brains out and you're gonna call me adorable?" I grouse, feeling embarrassed at his observation.\n"Yes," he snickers, "Because you are."\nI narrow my eyes at him and swing my leg off of him, standing from the bed. "No I'm-"\nMy eyes widen as I feel the results of our love-making starting to run down my legs and I take off, sprinting toward the bathroom.\n"You were saying?" He calls after me.\nI hear him laughing the whole way there.\n"I still don't have any clothes," I sigh a little bit later while we sit to watch a movie on the couch. I'm dressed only in one of his shirts while my clothes are in the wash, "I'm gonna need those."\nTaishiro's chuckle vibrates his chest while I lean into him, "I think Zawa has already guessed you won't be coming back."\nThe image of him lifting his hand in farewell flits across my mind. His smile was bittersweet as if to say "We'll miss you but I understand." It causes a small stab of pain in my heart. I really was happy there, even if here is where my heart truly lies.\n"I'll text him and see when we can go get your things, though," he says, reaching for his phone on the table but I stop him, pushing him back against the couch.\n"Later," I insist, "I'm comfy."\nTaishiro's chest rumbles with more laughter as he plants a kiss on the top of my head.\n"Okay."\nHe pulls me close to him again, running soothing fingers through my hair as I scratch Bento behind his little folded ears and we stay this way until our movie finishes.\nThe next day when I walk into the agency with Taishiro, Maki's eyes tear up and she runs to me, blubbering as she pulls me into a bear hug.\n"Oh I knew you would be back!" she cries, "I knew he wasn't a complete idiot! I'm so sorry I didn't help you more!"\n"Maki..." Taishiro grumbles, his tone flat.\n"Nee-san," Tamaki's warm voice reaches me, padding toward us from his desk as Maki pulls away from me.\nIt's been so long since I've actually seen him, I realize. Sure, I saw him yesterday but we never got the chance to speak. Same with the day he joined Taishiro and Shota to save me.\n"Tamaki-kun," I smile broadly, pulling him into an embrace he still awkwardly stiffens for.\nHe's not quite sure what to do with his hands but he figures it out, placing them gently at my back and patting.\n"Thank you," I whisper to him, "For taking care of him when I couldn't."\nI pull back from him and his eyes are more steady when he meets mine, nodding reassuringly. "I'm glad you're home."\nI have to change the subject before I get all teary-eyed. He always knows the perfect thing to say to shoot me right through the heart.\n"We have a lot to catch up on!" I say chirpily, still trying to blink back my tears. "How did things go yesterday? Is she... gone?"\nTamaki nods. "She's been placed in a secure cell at a local jail while she awaits trial. Her quirk registration has been updated and she can only speak to people through a microphone. Her quirk seems to be nullified like that."\nYeah, the video made that clear.\n"You might have to testify against her at some point," Taishiro adds, "You and Kenji. He's been notified of what happened. You two were the ones she harmed the most, as far as we're aware. Who knows how many other people she might've victimized before you. There's almost no way of really knowing."\n"I suppose we'll cross that bridge when we come to it," I say, twisting a piece of my hair around my finger nervously. "And... how goes the investigation on the... the trafficking?"\nIt gets unnaturally quiet when I ask that. Just bringing it up still hurts. I still feel Tomoyo's loss, though it's not anywhere near as prevalent as it was that day.\n"Well, actually uh..." Tamaki fidgets with one of the tools on his belt, his eyes turned to the floor.\nHe seems more anxious to speak than usual. Why? Is something wrong?\nI can't think on that for long, though. I hear the door to the agency opening. Someone's stopping by already.\nBut, when I turn, my heart stops in my chest. Why? How?!\nA beautiful blonde girl stands before me, followed closely by Togata carrying some coffees.\nShe immediately freezes when she sees me and Togata nearly crashes into her before realizing she's stopped.\n"Aiko-chan," she squeaks out, her voice timid.\nI've heard that voice before though. My eyebrows turn down in distaste.\n"Whitney."\n

Chapter 35:\n"This is my fault," Taishiro says hastily, stepping as quickly as he can between myself and the girl in front of me, "We were so wrapped up in... other things yesterday I didn't think to tell you what to expect today."\nThe expressions on everyone else's faces tells me they're well aware of these "other things" we were wrapped up in. It makes my skin prickle with embarrassment.\n"Whitney's been released into our custody until her court date with the promise of helping us bring the rest of the ring down," Togata steps forward, setting the coffees on Maki's desk.\n"And we're hoping that helping us will make the court look more favorably on her. Maybe they'll reduce her sentence if they see she's helping us," Tamaki adds.\nWhitney's expression is anxious as she watches me. She hasn't spoken since her initial outburst. She seems to be waiting to see what my reaction is.\nGone is the fully submissive, unsure girl, though. That was never her. She'd always been sure of herself and what she was doing. I still have a hard time forgiving her for all the harm she caused. Anger still seeps through me seeing her even now.\nBut she's the reason I was able to fight back. She helped me escape. Even though she's not the person I thought she was, even though she betrayed me, she also chose to help me.\nI nudge Taishiro back so I can stand face to face with her, though the people around us look tense.\n"How exactly are you helping?"\nHer anxiety fades. She looks more hopeful now.\n"I was the most connected person in the ring after Tomoyo. I got in contact with a lot of people for her. So I've been tracking them down and leading these guys to them..."\nResentment bubbles up inside of me despite her honesty. If she'd just done that from the start, none of this would've happened. A lot of girls would still be free. Tomoyo wouldn't...\nI sigh frustratedly. I have to focus on things as they are now. I can't let what could have been affect what's happening now. And what's happening now is that she is working with us and other people can still be saved.\n"You've already arrested people?" I ask anyone who will answer.\n"Quite a few actually," Taishiro says, "Whitney's led us to multiple people and we've even recovered a few of the trafficked girls. I'm sorry. I should've told you what was happening. You deserved to know."\nBut I keep my eyes trained on Whitney, assessing.\n"You're really going to help bring this ring down after all the work you put toward it? Why?"\nWhitney opens her mouth to speak but yet another person two people actually walk in.\nThe blue-haired girl! Nejire I think Tamaki called her. She's closely followed by the dragon woman who had helped Taishiro and Shota. Both of them look so much better than the last time I saw them.\n"You," I say, stunned. Not the most intellectual start...\nNejire smiles broadly at me, moving forward to throw her arms around me. She's so... different than how she was at the house. She was just playing a part down there to seem meek and harmless. But this girl is not at all those things.\n"Aiko-chan," she says, pulling back to look at me, "I'm so happy to see you again! I never got to tell you how amazing you were before. You would've made such a fantastic hero."\nI can feel a blush creeping onto my cheeks at her compliment, "Well, that really wasn't something I ever thought of being but thank you."\n"I was glad to find out everything was still okay. I worried about you after everything," she says, glancing down at my stomach.\nWhitney averts her gaze, shamefaced. That's another thing she's responsible for.\nI don't acknowledge her reaction, just respond to Nejire, "Thanks. We're completely healthy now. And thank you for helping me before. Thank you for not letting me give up."\nShe smiles kindly, then looks over at Taishiro with a more devilish curve to her lips. "I knew you weren't gonna let her go, Fat. I knew she was right for you the moment I met her."\nTaishiros cheeks redden and he splutters for a moment before he tries to return to the matter at hand. "A-Anyway, we teamed up with Ryukyu and Nejire-chan to bring the rest of the ring down. I don't know how many more there are but we've already gotten that director from the commercial we did and that secretary from your agency among others. I figured you'd want to know, Ueda isn't involved though."\nI do feel some relief at finding that out. I'm not extremely close with Ueda-san but he has always been grateful to me for being one of the first to join his agency and has respected my opinions as a model. If he'd also been in on this, my faith in the community I've been a part of for years would be completely shattered.\n"I'm glad it's all working out," I say, "Now we just have to get those girls back."\nEveryone's face turns solemn at that, especially Whitney whose eyes become obscured by her hair.\n"I... don't know if that's possible," Taishiro says with hesitancy, "It won't be as easy to track them down. Most of them have probably been taken out of the country and others have probably been sold multiple times by now. It's been going on so long..."\n"Oh," is all I can say, my hopefulness shrinking. The reason I agreed to help in the first place was because I wanted to save the girls. Now I'm being told that's unlikely. "Well, I'm glad we're at least saving others from meeting the same fate."\nThe others nod their agreement but their faces are still stoic. They must feel the similar guilt of failure on some level.\nTaishiro takes my hand running his thumb over the back of it. "We'll catch you up some more later. Let me take you upstairs for now. I'll help you get settled in your office again."\nI nod, waving at the others before Taishiro whisks me away, leading me up the stairs toward his office and the smaller one next to it that had been my own until...\nHe opens the door and my heart squeezes at what I find inside.\nIt's exactly the same as I left it, as though I'd gotten up that day for the photoshoot and have gotten back that very same day. He never threw anything away. He never repurposed it. As if he... he knew I'd come back somewhere deep in his subconscious.\n"I couldn't just throw everything away," he says, squeezing my hand a little tighter.\nMy heart aches. But it's a good ache. The kind that makes your whole body feel warm and light, knowing you're truly wanted.\n"Aiko-chan?" Whitney's voice has me whirling to find her standing in the doorway.\nTaishiro tenses at my side but doesn't immediately step in front of me. That's a testament of how much she seems to have proven herself to everyone. He's trying to give Whitney the benefit of the doubt here but it's clearly still a struggle for him at this moment.\n"Yes?" I say, inclining my head toward her.\nWhitney seems tense and uncomfortable. Her hands clasped together in front of her.\n"I... I just wanted to come talk to you with a little more privacy. I know you probably don't trust me and I understand but I just wanted to finally be able to tell you to your face that I was wrong and I was selfish and I'm sorry for what I did to you. I'm sorry for what you went through because of me."\nI'm not sure what I can say in response. That I forgive her? It's not just that simple.\n"You never answered me," I say instead, "Why did you decide to help us after all you did for Tomoyo and the others?"\nWhitney chews at her lip for a moment, considering.\n"I spent my whole life trying to be something that someone else wanted me to be. And when Tomoyo gave me the chance to be someone completely different, I knew better but I just didn't want to be that hero my parents wanted. I wanted to feel in control of my choices.\n"But when I met you... You actually cared about me. The only thing you wanted for me was to do what I loved. You wanted to fight for me to have that right. I realized after meeting you that I was being manipulated as much as you were. But I couldn't just walk away from her... Things weren't as easy as turning her in..."\nI'm all too aware of that. I wouldn't want what happened to Jared to have happened to her.\nI nod in understanding. "I know. And I appreciate what you've done. I haven't forgotten some of the things you did for me. I just need time to absorb all this."\nWhitney doesn't seem hurt by my response. "I'm not seeking your forgiveness, Aiko-chan. I wouldn't blame you if you never forgave me. I just needed you to know how sorry I am. I'm still amazed Tamaki and Mirio have done so much to help me."\nA part of me is curious about what's going on there. Especially with the way she's using both of their given names. What's happened between those three?\nBut that's a curiosity for another day.\n"I appreciate you telling me, Whitney." I hold out my hand for her to take and, cautiously, she does, "We'll see how things go, okay?"\nThis response seems to be more than she hoped for because her body relaxes a bit more as she nods.\n"Thank you."\nWith that, she pulls back and walks away with more determination.\n"Thank you for letting me handle that myself." I turn to Taishiro who also looks relieved.\nHe smiles at me, placing a giant hand on my head but bending over this time to kiss the top of my head as well.\n"Sweetheart, I'm not afraid of her hurting you like that. I'm afraid of having to hold you back. Thank you for not making me clean blood off the floor."\nChortling, I gaze up at him, needing to see his eyes on me again. Everything is still so new, I still need reassurances like this. I need to make sure he's still here, that he still wants me. And he's more than willing to show me he does.\nA few hours later, Ei and Tetsu come barreling through the door.\nWhen Ei catches sight of me conversing with Nejire, his face lights up like a Christmas tree.\n"Ai-senpai!" He shrieks, setting off at a run toward me and I feel the need to hold my hands out in front of me defensively. He's acting like a maniac!\nWhen he reaches me, he sweeps me up in his arms far more delicately than I would've expected and spins me around with him.\n"Welcome home, Ai-senpai! I'm so happy to see you here again!"\nI cling to him, laughing at his antics. All Might, I love these boys.\n"We had your back, Ai-senpai," Tetsu says, his own sharp smile spreading on his face, "We knew you wouldn't hurt Fat like that."\nOf all the people who knew about what had transpired between us, these two were the only ones who outright didn't believe it was my fault. Even I had thought I was in the wrong. But Ei and Tetsu had more faith in me than anyone else. They trust me more than anyone else.\n"Thank you," I choke out, my throat suddenly feeling tight as Ei sets me down again. "You redeemed me."\n"It was our pleasure," Ei says, placing a hand on my shoulder now, "We just want you and Fat to be happy."\nA tear escapes from the corner of my eye as I pull both of them to me and embrace them, laying my cheeks at the tops of their heads.\nOver them, I see Taishiro coming down the stairs to greet them and he looks pleased. Our eyes meet and I know at this moment, finally, I'm home for good.\n3 MONTHS LATER\nTaishiro\n"Let me get one XL and one medium takoyaki," I tell the vendor at my favorite stand, handing him the money before he even has to tell me the total.\nAiko stands a few feet away, waiting out of the summer sun under the shade of a tree. Her wings are twitching excitedly. It's probably no coincidence that one of the things she craves the most during her pregnancy is takoyaki. She's been eating it almost as often as I do.\nAfter a few minutes, the man hands me my order and I head back over to Aiko.\nHer hand is at her belly, as it often is these days, and she's watching the contents of my hands with rapt attention.\nShe's gotten quite a bit rounder already and she's only six months along. And, I'm embarrassed to admit, I've also noticed other... softer parts of her have gotten bigger too. Her breasts often seem like they're about to spill out of her bras these days and it takes all of my willpower not to stare at them when she has them on display.\nAnd, yes, she definitely doesn't have any qualms about still dressing however she wants, even as an expectant mother. She still wears her skimpy or lacey underthings and her low-cut tops. Maybe not so many midriff exposing items because I think she might be embarrassed of the stretch marks that have begun to appear.\nBut, god, is she gorgeous when she's all round like that. Maybe it's something about it being my baby she's carrying but seeing her like this makes her even sexier to me than ever. And, good lord, she was a lingerie model before.\n"Oh thank All Might," she cries, snatching the smaller box away from me when I extend it to her, "I was starving! Thank you, Tai!"\nI can't help the smile that spreads across my face as she digs in, completely unconcerned at the rate she's stuffing the tiny fried balls in her mouth. There was once a time she was afraid of eating even one of them. Of course she's still rather strict about her diet, making sure she's eating "super foods" every day and now avoiding coffee. But her cravings... she indulges heavily in those.\nI step closer to her, wrapping an arm around her from behind, and she stills.\n"Is there anything else I can get you, mommy?" I murmur as I bury my face in her hair.\nHer wings flare out like an excited little bird and she struggles to hide the way her thighs are squeezed together. Geez, it takes so little to turn her on these days.\n"Maybe," she giggles, running a tender hand down my arm that sends shivers up my spine.\nShe freezes again, though, her face falling into a shocked O shape as her hand goes to her belly again.\n"What? Whats wrong?" I ask, quickly pulling away from her to move to her front.\nShe doesn't answer immediately, her eyes distant, hand still at the swell of her belly.\nThen her eyes widen a fraction more and she grabs for my hand, bringing it to her stomach, just above her belly button.\n"Feel," she whispers excitedly.\nI wait, my hand firmly pressed under hers to her belly.\nNearly a minute passes but she doesn't let go.\n"Ai-cha-"\n"Shh!" She shushes me as though quiet might make it easier to feel.\nBut then... there's a tap. Not on my hand from hers. Under it.\nI gasp, almost startled enough to pull away. There is something a little disturbing about your hand being tapped by a part of someone's body that doesn't usually do that.\nIt taps again as I move my hand slightly.\n"Oh my god," I breathe, hardly wanting to move.\n"You feel it?" She asks, her amethyst eyes shining as she watches me.\nA grin spreads across my face. "Yes! I've never... It's amazing!"\n"So strong already," she notes, "It makes me wonder how strong they'll be in another month."\nA look of mild concern passes over her face but I kiss it away, trying to calm her worry. "It's okay. Keep them happy with their favorite snacks and I'm sure they'll treat you right."\nShe narrows her eyes at me, fighting a smile, "If they're anything like you, that's probably true."\nLaughing, I put an arm around her waist and lead her forward.\n"Hey," I say, gazing down at her as we make our way back to the agency, "Did you hear about this one lady who traveled to the ocean to have her baby?"\nAiko looks up at me, perplexed. "What? No. Why would-"\n"She needed a sea section."\nHer face immediately drops into a scowl that has me snorting trying to hold back my laughter. "That was terrible. I hated every second of it. Have you been saving that?"\nI can't keep the fiendish grin off of my face at her reaction. "Yes! I've been practicing. I needed to start working on my dad jokes seeing as how I'll be a dad soon and all."\nAiko seems unimpressed but that just makes me even more entertained.\n"I have more. You wanna hear em?"\n"No."\n"Okay. So... where do baby fish sleep?"\nIt's only been a little over six months since Taishiro and I reunited but it feels like that was years ago now.\nI can't say things are "back to normal" because so much has changed for us in this small amount of time but we have a new normal.\nI allowed Ueda to convince me to do a couple more shoots for maternity wear before giving up the modeling industry for good and I'm glad I did it. Now I have beautiful photos of my pregnancy.\nThe press had a bit of a field day for a week or so when the photoshoot was published. People love to gossip about a "love conquers all" romance scenario. Although, there was some speculation about why we're starting a family before we're even married yet.\nSince then, I've chosen to let myself relax for the rest of my pregnancy. After that... who knows? I'm still figuring it out.\nSo now here I am, sitting on the couch. I am 40 weeks plus one day and I am furious! Isn't there any way to serve an eviction notice to this little monster?! They were supposed to be out by yesterday but I've had nothing but Braxton Hicks contractions! Don't they know how to keep a schedule?!\n"You doin okay, mama?" Taishiro asks, rubbing my back lightly as he takes a seat next to me on the couch.\nI slide my gaze over to him, unable to hold back the fury boiling inside me. He doesn't take it personally, though. He's had to put up with my sourness for weeks now.\nThis baby's been getting on my nerves since almost immediately after I moved into the third trimester. All the bathroom breaks, the cravings, awkward sleeping positions. I've had it! I've been counting down the days until they're supposed to come out and they have the audacity to not adhere to that?!\nI feel a little foot jab me in the ribs and I grunt at the discomfort. "No."\nIt's hard to remember a time when I thought those kicks were cute.\nTaishiro's smile lifts my heart slightly and his hand goes to my globe-like belly. The little monster kicks at him. They've been doing that in the past week. It's like they can feel someone's hand there just as well as I can.\nHis smile only gets wider, though. He's been entertained by those little kicks ever since he felt the first one, even after they started to not be so small.\n"You want me to hold them for a little bit?" he asks, standing again and offering his hand to me, "Will that make you feel a little better?"\nWe learned this technique at the birthing class we've been going to for the past couple months. They've been training us on how to breathe and the best ways our partners can support us in these later weeks.\nI nod, taking his hand and rolling my globular ass off the couch. I'm under no delusions that I look attractive right now. I do not give a fuck.\nStanding, I turn my back to him and he pulls me closer.\nHeat prickles at my skin when his hands slide under my belly, lacing his fingers together.\nSlowly, he lifts the swell of my belly until the weight is mostly off of my hips and, instead, held by him. It feels so amazing.\nI sigh with relief, relaxing my head back against him. "Thank you."\nTaishiro chuckles. "They've gotten even heavier since last time."\n"I know," I groan, "I feel heavier every day. They need to come out!"\n"They will," he whispers, "Don't worry."\n"We're ready, right?" I ask for what has to be the millionth time, "We have everything?"\n"Yes. The go bag is packed. I've got a taxi on speed dial. The nursery is fully stocked. We're ready."\nAnxiety still creeps up on me despite knowing this, though. I'm ready for this baby to come out of me but why don't I feel ready? Why don't I feel like I know exactly what I'm doing? When am I gonna start feeling like a real mom?\nHe holds me like this for a few more minutes, then slowly releases me, letting the baby settle on my hips again.\nAs it does, something that feels like a mild cramp mixed with the pressure of a Braxton Hicks contraction hits me and I frown, rubbing at my belly. Was that... a real contraction?\n"Everything okay?" Taishiro asks, seeing my concerned expression.\n"I... I think so. I think I just had a contraction," I say, still rubbing my belly which sends the baby kicking again.\nTaishiro smiles excitedly. "Really? Maybe we should do it again-"\n"No," I swat his hands away from my belly, "It wasn't that. It was just a coincidence."\n"Well... what do we do now?" he asks, eyeing the clock.\nIt's only about 7 am. He has to head into work soon.\n"Just go," I wave him away, "It was just one contraction. That doesn't mean anything. I might not have another one for hours and we're supposed to wait until they're five minutes apart aren't we?"\nHe nods.\n"Then I'll be fine," I assure him, settling myself back down on the couch to have Bento crawl up after me and settle himself on my belly.\nHe's been doing that ever since the swell in my abdomen was more noticeable. Surprisingly, the baby doesn't kick him. Maybe they like the purring. Who knows?\n"Okay," Taishiro says with some hesitation. I can see in his eyes he doesn't want to go.\n"I'm fine," I say again, "Bento's got me. I have my phone if anything else happens. Now go."\nHe still seems unsure but heads toward the door as I turn on the TV to settle down for a day full of vegetating with my best buddy.\nWhen he's almost out the door, he turns toward me again and I send him another shooing motion before he finally shuts it.\nIt does make me feel warm and fluffy knowing he worries about me this much, though.\nAbout an hour later, I feel another contraction. Once again, it's not strong but it's noticeable and gives me pause. Nothing to worry about, though. I just keep on binging this new drama I found.\nAnother hour and there's a slightly stronger contraction but it's not any closer than the last. It's kinda irritating actually. Like are they unsure if they really wanna come out? What's going on in there? We're supposed to have some progression here!\nAt noon, Taishiro calls to check in on me.\n"Any changes?" he asks hopefully.\nI sigh into the phone. "Not much. They were coming every hour and then 45 minutes. They're still really far apart. There's no way they're coming today are they?"\nThere's some disappointment in his voice when he answers. "I dunno. But soon, mama. It's already starting. So they'll be out soon. Just hang in there."\nAnother hour passes and I have three contractions in that time. That's good! That's real progression!\nBy the time Taishiro gets back home promptly at five o'clock, the contractions are starting to actually get a little uncomfortable and are coming every 12-15 minutes. It's still not enough to go to the hospital, though. We'd only be there in less comfort, waiting for hours and taking up a bed someone else might need.\nHe makes some food for me, knowing that I probably won't be able to eat again until the baby comes out and I eat it shakily through another discomforting contraction.\nThis part of it really sucks. I'm not in severe pain but I'm in no way comfortable. Every time I find some small amount of comfort, there's another contraction coming and they're only growing in painfulness.\nTaishiro won't leave my side as he watches over me, trying to make me comfortable with pillows and massaging my back and shoulders when he can.\nMore hours pass with minimal progression and it's all I can do to pay attention to the TV show I'm watching. But I don't want to just sit here with nothing to distract me and just wait for the next contraction to come. That would be-\nI feel something inside of me. It's not a kick. What... what was that? It felt like something... popping? Inside of me?\nMy eyes grow wide and I feel color draining from my face.\n"Ai-chan?" Taishiro asks, his eyes frantically searching my face.\n"We need to go. Now."\n"But- but your contractions are only eight minutes apart and-"\nI teeter my way off the couch and feel something, a soft trickle down my leg. Oh no.\nI take a shaky breath in and release it slowly. "We go now. My water just broke."\nSuddenly, Taishiro is a flurry of motion as he gathers everything and calls the taxi company. Fortunately, that only takes minutes with our bag already packed.\nWe're out the door and in a taxi only a couple contractions later and, holy shit, they're now getting much more painful.\n"Please go as fast as you can," Taishiro instructs the driver, "It's an emergency."\nThe driver listens and doesn't hesitate as he hits the gas.\nEvery bump we hit, I can feel and causes pressure in my abdomen. When another contraction hits, I have to breathe through it, reaching for Taishiro's hand which he hurriedly takes.\nHe watches me with panicked eyes. He's so scared his hands are trembling holding mine. "Are you okay? Are we gonna make it?"\nI chuckle weakly, trying to ignore the pressure in my belly. "We'll make it. We have time."\nThis hurts now but I'm well aware it can and will get much much worse.\nBut then the car slows to a stop and it's nowhere near a hospital.\nLooking around, I see cars stopped in every direction.\n"What's going on?" Taishiro snaps a little harshly at the driver. The poor man is having a nervous breakdown.\n"I-I don't know!" the guy says, just as perplexed as we are. "I think something's going on up there. Looks like heroes are fighting some villains maybe?"\nTaishiro looks startled and I see true distress in his eyes. There's an internal struggle going on within him. Does he feel obligated to go help?\n"Do you need to go?" I say, gritting my teeth through another contraction.\nHe's still considering. This is truly a difficult decision for him and I don't think I can help him make it. I can't just tell him to go. Deep down, I want him to stay. I don't want him to miss the birth of our baby. But this will always be our life. He will often have to choose between helping people and being here for his family. How can I ask him to not go to his calling? But how can he also not want to be here for me?\nI have no easy answer.\n"I-"\n"Fat!" a familiar voice calls and I see Hawks of fucking course it's Hawks land next to the taxi along with two other heroes on his heels. They're familiar too.\n"Hawks!" Taishiro calls out excitedly, flinging the car door open, "Help me, please!"\nThe small man's eyes sweep through the car, catching on me and my gigantic belly.\nHe sighs. "It was never meant to be, was it?"\nIs he doing this now?! I'm gonna choke him! I'm gonna rip his entire throat out.\nI reach my hand out to do just that but Taishiro takes it in his, seeing my murderous intent gleaming in my eyes.\n"We don't have time for games, Hawks. She's in labor. Her water broke. We need to get her to the hospital now."\n"You know there's a fight going on up there, right?" Hawks nods his head toward a large plume of smoke rising into the night sky, "I need to get to that."\n"Please," Taishiro insists desperately, "I'll go. I'll take your place but please get her there."\n"No!" I cry out, "Don't go!"\nGoddammit! I couldn't keep my mouth shut after all. I just had to go and make it worse.\nTaishiro leans back toward me, taking my face in his hands. "I want to stay, honey. I'll do everything I can to get back to you. But what's most important is getting you there now. I won't make you give birth in the back of a taxi. I need to be sure you're both safe so... just please go with him."\n"We can take you, Aiko-chan," one of the other heroes steps forward, "We can take you both."\n"The fuck?" the other one snaps, "Like hell we can! We got a fight to get to!"\n"Bakugo! She's about to have a baby! We can come back when we drop her off!"\nShota's students. Uraraka, the girl that can float things, and Bakugo, Ei's shitty friend. Of course it would be him who has to help me in my time of need.\n"And if we miss the fight?" he snarls.\n"Then we miss it! Helping people like this is part of being a hero too! We've talked about this! They need our help, Bakugo!"\nBakugo eyes me and I glare back at him until another contraction wracks my body, causing me to wince and put a hand to my stomach.\n"Tch, fine," he growls, "We'll take em."\n"Great!" Hawks says cheerily, "Glad we got that settled. You two take them to the hospital and then come back here when you're done. Got it?"\nThe students nod and Hawks takes his chance to launch himself into the air again.\nTaishiro slings the go bag on one shoulder then helps me out of the car.\n"Here, Fat Gum-san, I'm going to lighten you both and then you can partially absorb us all like you did for the Fataxi so Bakugo can propel us forward.\nTaishiro obeys and soon we're off, blasting through the air like a rocket.\n"I should've been able to fly myself," I ground out through another contraction.\n"Not like that, you can't," Uraraka says kindly, "It's safer like this. I'm sure Fat will feel more comfortable having you safe like this as well."\nIt's hard to argue with her when my contractions are nearly paralyzing me with pain every few minutes. She's probably right.\n"Fataxi again," I say weakly, "The first time he carried me around like this was the night I realized I was in love with him."\nUraraka smiles warmly at me. "And now you're starting a family."\nAnother contraction grips me and I wince, making a pained sound.\n"We're almost there, Ai-chan," Fat tries to reassure me, "Just a little bit further. I called ahead and they're just waiting for us to land."\nThe corners of my lips pull down in displeasure. I'm in real pain now. I don't know how much longer I can do this.\nBut before the next contraction hits, we're landing and I'm carted off before I'm even able to tell the students thank you. I suppose I'll have to tell Ei when I get the chance.\n"We're doing an epidural, right?" one of the nurses asks at my side and I nod before another contraction sends waves of pain rippling through my body.\nTears gather at the corners of my eyes. "Hurry, please."\nWhen we make it into our room, Taishiro doesn't wait to lift me onto the bed.\n"You're doing great, mama. You're so strong."\nTears of pain streak down my cheeks and I grip his hand tightly.\n"Thank you," I rasp out through the pain, "for staying with me."\nHe leans closer to me, pressing his forehead to mine. "I won't ever leave you, Ai-chan. I'm sorry if I made it seem like I wanted to go to that fight over being with you but I know what's important." he lays his hand on top of mine still gripping my belly "They didn't need me. You do. You will always be number one."\nThe doctor and nurses are hurrying in now, quickly hooking me up to fluids and having me roll to the side to start my epidural.\nEven though the relief isn't immediate, I feel far better knowing that relief is close at hand.\n"You're already far along," my doctor says, smiling excitedly at me, "The baby isn't in any distress yet so there's no need to hurry anything. I suspect it'll only be another hour until we can start pushing. If you start feeling like you really need to push before then, hit your call button."\nWith that she leaves us to relax for a little bit or at least as much as we can.\nThe pain is already receding, I notice, as I feel another contraction. It's still painful but not overwhelming.\n"See?" I turn to Taishiro with a tired smile. "I told you we'd make it."\nHe chuckles, petting my hair and whispering to me calmly while we wait.\n"Alright! We're ready to push!" the doctor says, sweeping in what only feels like moments later. I think I might've been dozing. It's getting late now.\nThe nurses all take their places as the doctor sits on a chair at the foot of my bed. Taishiro kneels by the side of the bed, still holding onto my hand.\n"Okay, next contraction, you can start to push," she says.\n"You got this, mama," Taishiro whispers, brushing hair from my face, "At the end of this, we'll get to meet our baby."\nI smile, feeling more determined now that he's said it like that.\n"Alright," the doctor nods, "Push now!"\nPushing out a baby is not at all how movies make it seem.\nThere's no screaming. I don't feel inordinate rage at Taishiro for knocking me up. I'm not squeezing his hand to death (although, I'm sure he'd handle it if I were squeezing him with all of my strength).\nAll of my strength is going to bearing down and pushing the baby out. It's fucking exhausting.\nThe moment the doctor says "The head's out!" everything goes much easier from there.\nTaishiro only glances down there for a second before returning his gaze to me. It doesn't seem to be something he can handle. Hell, I don't know if I would be able to handle looking down there myself. I can barely watch National Geographic documentaries.\nThe doctor next announces when "the wings are out" which was a small point of contention for us. We were all fearful of what might happen to me or to them. But it seems like those bones were plenty flexible to be able to handle being pushed out.\nA few more more pushes and "He's out!" she finally rejoices, holding the baby up for us to see, "He is big. You are a superhero for pushing him out."\nHe's out... A boy...\nA baby, so small for how huge he felt in my belly, wiggles and cries furiously in her arms. His hair is still damp but I can already see the beautiful shade of lavender it is.\nToo soon she's handing him to a nurse to clean up and wrap in a swaddle. All Might, I wish I could just look at him a little bit longer.\nInstead, my eyes turn to Taishiro who's standing now also looking over toward the table they have him on. Tears are gathering in his eyes and he looks completely shocked.\n"You did it!" he says, like he's genuinely surprised or something, "You did it, Ai-chan! A boy! Oh god. A boy! And- and he's here and..."\nHe has to take a moment to breathe, seeming to be overwhelmed with emotion. I'd probably feel the same way if I weren't so exhausted. What I feel most right now is relief.\n"You're amazing," Taishiro says, finally getting control of himself again and squeezing my hand, "That was... incredible."\nA nurse walks up to me holding our tiny swaddled son in her arms, her cleaning and measurements complete. He's quieted quite a bit now that he's warm again.\n"Here's mama," she speaks softly to him as she hands him over.\nI gently take him, cradling him like we were taught.\nHe may be big for a baby but he's still so small. A huge shock of pale lavender hair peaks out from under the cap they've put on his head as he settles a little bit in my arms. Maybe he recognizes the comfort of his mother?\nHe nuzzles into my chest and the nurse leans over us, assessing.\n"Now's the perfect time to get him to latch for the first time if you're looking to breastfeed," she says with a kind smile.\n"O-okay," I say awkwardly, not quite sure what to do. I knew I wanted to breastfeed but I don't even know where to start.\nIt takes a few attempts but the nurse helps me figure out how to get him to latch for the first time.\nWhen he finally gets it, he settles in, his little purple wings twitching contentedly, and his eyes finally slit open to gaze up at me.\nI gasp and Taishiro draws nearer, concern lacing his voice. "What is it? What's wrong?"\n"Look," I tilt him just barely to make his eyes more visible to Taishiro as well and he hums appreciatively, running a loving hand through my hair.\nFramed by lavender lashes, his eyes shine a luminous golden color that is nothing short of breathtaking. He's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen in my life.\n"Look what we made," Taishiro whispers, leaning in to kiss the top of my head and rest his cheek there, "He's so perfect, sweetheart."\nTears spring to my eyes as my wings flutter in response, my heart shining bright with pride and adoration.\nEverything I went through everything I fought for; every moment I didn't lose hope was for this. Him. And it was worth it.\n"Hinata," I coo at him, running a finger down his chubby little cheek and he wrestles a tiny fist from his swaddle, wrapping it around my finger.\n"Fujisaki Hinata," Taishiro says warmly, "I like that."\n"Toyomitsu," I correct him with a smile and he goes still.\nTaishiro swiftly pulls back, kneeling down beside my bed with a stricken look. "Toyomitsu? But- but he's... I just figured you feel so strongly about him and don't get me wrong, I do too. But I just thought you'd want to claim him. He doesn't have to have my name."\n"I do claim him," I agree, wishing I could touch Taishiro's face but my hand is otherwise occupied and I'm reluctant to pull away, "And I claim you too."\nConfusion furrows Taishiro's brow until I see realization dawn there and his jaw drops, looking stupefied.\n"If... If you'll have me, I guess," I amend as I look away, suddenly unsure with the way he seems so stunned. Maybe I'm being hasty or too forward. What if he hates that I'm the one who's proposing?\n"Yes- yes, of course, Ai-chan" he says breathlessly, "Of course I'll have you. I should be the one asking you if you'll have me. You're... you're everything."\nHe abruptly pushes up to lean in and kiss me, his lips soft and warm and gentle.\nThe tears I was holding back before, leak silently down my cheeks, accidently wetting Taishiro's as well and he pulls back in surprise, then chuckles, wiping my tears away.\n"You're beautiful."\nI must still be hormonal because I just cry harder. I can't figure out how else to express the way my heart feels like it's leaping out of my chest. Life is so rarely this perfect. Happiness like this doesn't even come once in a lifetime for everyone. But I have it. It happened to me. Taishiro happened to me. And I'm beyond thankful for every moment we share.\nWhen Hinata is done nursing, I hand him over to Taishiro to hold for the first time and it just about tears me apart how tiny he looks in his arms. He looks like nothing more than a baby doll. He could probably hold him in just one hand.\n"Hey, little one," he smiles with watery eyes and I can't even be a little upset that it seems like he's forgotten about me completely.\nHinata doesn't fuss in his arms. I mean, who would with how soft and warm he is?\n"Do you wanna hear a joke, baby?" Taishiro chokes out, a large finger touching his tiny nose, "What- What did the mother cow say to the baby cow?"\nHinata, of course, says nothing as he stares up at Taishiro in wonder.\n"'It's pasture bedtime.'" he chuckles in a blubbering way as Hinata's hand tries to take hold of his finger like it did mine, "Get it? 'Pasture.' Because... Because they're cows."\nI hate the jokes a little less now.\nNot even an hour later, I'm about to nod off again when I hear the sound of hurried footsteps coming down the hall just in time to see my mother burst through the door.\n"Where is my baby?!" She cries frantically at the nurses.\nShe's still in her scrubs although they don't match the ones worn in this hospital. Her violet hair is thrown up in a messy bun. She must've rushed here from work.\n"Oh you must be grandma," my nurse says with a practiced sweetness, "the baby is napping now. He's with his-"\nMy mom pushes past them, ignoring the nurse and hurrying to my bedside.\n"My baby girl," she coos, throwing her arms around me, "Are you in pain? Did they do the epidural right? How long did it take? Are they letting you drink water now?"\n"Mom," I sigh, my cheeks heating despite how comforted I am by her presence, "It went well. I'm okay. They did it all right. I'm not in any pain. I'm just tired."\nShe looks relieved. "And my grandbaby?"\nI nod toward Taishiro who's still holding Hinata, dozing in his arms. "He's fine. He's big for a newborn but we expected that. We named him Hinata."\n"Hinata," she puts a hand to her mouth, "He's so beautiful! Look at that hair and those pretty eyelashes! Oh Aiko-chan, he's an angel!"\n"Do you want to hold him?" Taishiro offers, holding him out toward her.\nMy mother readily takes Hinata in her arms and her face brightens considerably. "He's so precious! What a sweetheart. I'm gonna spoil him so much!"\nI find myself smiling at the scene before me. She looks down at him with so much affection... How did I believe for so long that she didn't want me? I'm glad that, at the very least, she's here for this.\nShe looks over at me now, her expression still affectionate. "You're tired. You can sleep now, baby girl. I'll wake you up if he needs you."\nSomething within me relaxes at her assurance and I look over at Taishiro who also looks beat. He hasn't slept either. It's been a grueling day.\n"Go ahead and sleep, mama," he says, running fingers through my hair, "Don't worry about me. It's you who needs the rest."\nI can't even argue with him. My exhaustion is already taking over and I finally am able to let myself succumb to sleep.\n"Oh my gosh! Look at him!" I hear a feminine voice whisper as I slowly rise from unconsciousness. I don't know how long I've been asleep but it can't have been more than a couple hours. "You two make gorgeous babies, Tai. I love you no matter what you do but... please tell me you're not gonna let her get away again."\nIt's his mother, whispering as to not wake me. That's not what pulled me out of my sleep, though. I can hear Hinata's tiny voice starting to grumble. Is he hungry again?\n"I won't," Taishiro says quietly, "This time it's for good. I promise."\nI hear both her and my own mother gasp at something and try to contain their squeals of excitement. What's that about?\n"It's perfect for her!" My mother squeaks out.\nWhat? What's perfect?\n"I was trying to figure out the best way to ask and then she just kinda... told me." I hear Taishiro rustling, putting something away.\nA light laugh issues from my mother. "That sounds like her. She just decides how things are gonna be and she makes it happen. I'm glad she chose you, though."\nTaishiro sighs, "Me too."\nHinata starts crying in earnest now, tired of not getting the milk he's been grumbling for and I blink my eyes open, trying to seem like I haven't been listening this whole time.\n"Oh look!" Taishiro's mother coos at Hinata, "Mama's awake! Are you ready for num nums?"\nShe hands him over to me and he immediately starts bobbing his head against my breast, rooting around like he can smell the milk.\n"We can step out while you feed him," she says, heading toward the door followed closely by my own mother.\n"Oh, you don't have to," I tell them earnestly, "I know I'm gonna have to do this a lot so I'll probably have to get used to people seeing my boobs."\nEven though I'm certain they just met, my and Taishiro's mother share a conspiratorial look and turn back to me.\n"We'll let you have your privacy this once," my mom says and shoots a look at Taishiro before they hurry out the door.\nOkay... Well I might as well feed him now.\nIt takes another couple minutes to get him latched right and then he's pleased as punch, nuzzling me and staring up at my face with those gorgeous golden eyes so much like Taishiro's.\n"S-So," Taishiro says, his voice cracking slightly and I look up at him, questioning, "So you said before... I don't know if you remember. Maybe you were tired and-"\n"I said I want to marry you," I cut in, trying to relieve some of his discomfort. But it doesn't seem to ease much.\nTaishiro isn't looking at me. Instead, he watches Hinata as he tries to wiggle his arm free of his swaddle again. He seems to already be acclimating to his freedom from his womb prison.\n"Yeah..." Taishiro pauses, digging in his pocket for something, "And I... Well- You kinda caught me off guard there."\nI smirk at him. "Are you rethinking it now?"\n"No!" He yelps immediately, "No! Of course not! What I meant was... I... I was going to ask you. You just beat me to it."\n"It wasn't like I said it because I got tired of waiting," I chuckle while I run my fingers through Hinata's soft hair, "I just... decided that's what I wanted when I thought about naming him. I realized... I want your name. I want you... forever."\nTaishiro's flustered expression calms into a more serene one and his eyes soften toward me.\nHe pulls whatever he'd been searching for out of his pocket at last and somehow it doesn't surprise me that it's a little box. It does surprise me, though, when I see how beautiful the ring inside is.\nThis is what our mothers were gasping at. A marquise cut amethyst surrounded by tiny little diamonds that spread out as the setting melds into the silver band of the ring. It looks like a gemstone sitting among stars.\n"Whaddya think?"\nI can hardly even look away from it. "I love it... I mean, as someone who wasn't expecting anything, this is pretty spectacular."\nTaishiro beams down at me, taking hold of my left hand that had still been gliding through Hinata's hair.\nGently, he slides the ring on my finger then he just holds my hand there, staring at it.\nI understand why because I'm doing the same.\nThis is a dream come true.\nA year and a half ago, I was alone. I was lonely without any means of finding a connection. I'd resigned myself to living out my life this way because I didn't want to hurt anyone or let them hurt me. Then I met Taishiro and absolutely everything changed.\nThis ring feels like the culmination of all of it put into physical form. A promise. A bond that will last.\nHe gives me a small kiss that he prolongs for a few seconds before pulling back.\n"I love you," he murmurs into my hair.\n"I love you," I answer in turn.\nWe're released from the hospital the next day which has me already second guessing my ability to do anything right.\nAm I really going to be able to take care of an entire human baby?\nIt seems like both of our moms are more than willing to help, though, and even Haruto comes by to meet his new nephew.\nThey manage to keep me sane while we work through our initial days of parenthood.\nAnd then, after the longest month of my life, struggling through nights of broken sleep and days of blown out diapers, it's time for Taishiro to return to work. And, as usual, I accompany him. We're long past me needing his protection but it's become habit for me to join him at work.\nThe moment Taishiro and I step through the door at his agency, Maki looks up from her desk and her eyes go as wide as saucers. She lets out a little squeak as though she's holding back a much greater squeal she'd rather be making.\n"Let me see that precious little cutie!" She says, getting up from her seat to hurry over and peer into the bundle in Taishiro's arm. She gasps when she lays eyes on him. "Oh he's gorgeous! Look at those chubby cheeks!"\nHinata just watches her with interest, his golden eyes following her hand and she strokes his cheek.\n"Aren't you just a little angel! You're gonna make people fall in love with you just by batting those eyelashes," she says in a baby-ish voice.\nHe just smiles at her and Maki practically swoons.\n"Dimples?! Oh my gosh that's just unfair!"\n"Oh yeah. He's a heartbreaker," Taishiro chuckles.\n"You're going to call me if you need a babysitter, right?" she asks, eyes lighting up with excitement.\nI won't tell her she'll have to line up behind both of our mothers and Taishiro's brother.\n"Of course!"\n"I'm gonna go show him to everyone else, okay?" Taishiro grins at me, practically bouncing to show him off.\nHe's still the same as he's always been. Through everything we've dealt with, he's still this man. Kind, loving, easily excitable. That's what I adore about him.\nI nod and he scampers off like a child, holding Hinata close, who giggles that Daddy is zooming him around. I can already hear the cries of astonishment upon the others seeing him.\nMaki takes hold of my hand before I realize what's happening and brings it up to her eye level.\n"What is this?" She asks, eyeing the light purple gem on my finger.\n"Uh..."\n"When did this happen? When were you gonna tell us about this?!"\n"I- I just thought Hinata-"\n"Absolutely not! All of us have watched you two from the very start and we are overly invested in your relationship! We need to know when you get engaged! Oh my goodness, this is too much for me. First the angelic baby and now an engagement. I don't know how much my heart can handle."\n"W-well we actually got engaged the night Hinata was born so-"\nMaki makes a strangled cry. "The same night?! Oh my lord, I need to sit down. You need to go tell everyone else about that."\nShe plops comically back into her chair and I can't help but smile at the overly emotional woman as I head back to find Tamaki holding Hinata awkwardly, looking like he might cry from anxiety. Hinata, for his part, seems rather unsure of this new development as well.\n"C-Can I give him back now?" he asks, the first to notice me walking up.\nI meet eyes with Taishiro and shake my head as I go to take the baby back from him. But as I do, Hinata grabs hold of Tamaki's finger and brings it to his mouth to chew on or rather gnaw with his gums.\nTamaki looks startled but Hinata just gives him his winning smile and flaps his tiny wings with gusto.\nTamaki's tension seems to relax at that and he stares down at the baby more warmly now. Hinata's wrangled another one. I doubt there's a person he can't make fall for him.\nWhitney and Mirio are next and they both reach for him at the same time. When each of them notices the other, they exchange cautionary looks with each other.\n"Back off," Whitney jabs, "You're gonna scare him with your creepy beady eyes."\nMirio, for all the wholesomeness he exudes, always seems to let her get under his skin. "As if your radioactive-looking ones aren't creepy?"\nShe narrows her eyes at him, a curl coming to her lip. "I'm sure he'd rather look at a pretty girl than... whatever it is you'd call your face."\n"You really overestimate your looks," he snips back, shaking his head.\nI'd love to say that this kind of back and forth is surprising but it's become commonplace at this point. Worse yet, neither of them has any qualms about squabbling in front of Tamaki now. Glancing at him, I can see he's resigned himself to it.\nBut there's something different about it than before. There's less malice and it seems more like they're going through the motions now. If anything, I'd say it's playful. Flirtatious even?\nOver the past few months, Whitney's trial has been taking place. Tamaki and Mirio each testified to how instrumental she's been in catching the rest of the trafficking ring.\nAnd she has been. She's not only helped catch some of the people she knew in the ring, but also gotten information out of those people in order to find more and it's snowballed into what it is today. We seem to have caught so many of them that the ring is in less than shambles. If there's anyone from that ring left out there, no one will be able to pick up the pieces. It's probably one of the best outcomes we could've hoped for despite the fact that there are still a lot of girls missing. I suppose it'll have to be good enough that we saved others from their fate.\nWhen both of them have had their turn, Taishiro moves on to Ei and Tetsu, who are in the training room in the back. He's so fast. I'm still suffering from not getting enough sleep and just trying to keep up with all of the baby care. It's difficult to follow him around.\nSo I stay with this trio and sit at a chair in front of Tamaki's desk.\nI'd really like to know what's going on between these three. There's much less tension than there was initially but I haven't seen any actual relationship blooming between Tamaki and either of them.\nWhitney steps forward, eyes lasering in on my left hand. How is it the women are the ones noticing this?\n"Aiko-chan!" she gasps, "Are you and Fat Gum-san...?"\nThe other two boys look puzzled at first, not quite sure what's gotten her so excited. But they follow her eyes to my hand, resting on my lap.\n"You got engaged," Tamaki says with a soft smile, a rarity for him.\n"Yeah," I return his smile.\n"I'm happy for you, nee-chan. You make Fat happy and... and everyone else here too."\nA wave of warmth pours from my heart upon hearing his words. He's reminded me so quickly why I have so much affection for him.\n"Thank you," I say, "I don't know when the wedding will be but you'll all be invited. Don't worry."\nAt that, Whitney looks at me with an expression that's hard to read. It's not hostile but it's also not the one I expected. She doesn't seem happy. It's... longing? Regretful?\n"I don't know if I'll be able to come," she says quietly, chewing at her lip.\nThe other two boys look at her with confusion.\nMirio tilts his head. "Why's that? You're free to do what you want now."\n"I'm leaving," she says, casting her gaze back down to the ring on my finger.\nI frown at that. "'Leaving'? What does that mean?"\n"Leaving like, you might not ever see me again."\nMy frown deepens and I'm feeling suddenly discomforted. Is she even allowed to do that?\nTamaki and Mirio don't look like they've heard this from her either until now.\n"What do you mean?" Mirio scoffs, "You just had your sentence commuted. Now you're just going to stop helping us? Run away?"\nTamaki isn't speaking. He seems too shocked to say much. There's disappointment and hurt in his eyes.\n"No, I-" Whitney swallows thickly, her gaze still averted, "I'm not running away."\nMy tail twitches in annoyance. "If you're not running away then what are you doing?"\n"I'm going to find them," Whitney says, looking up at me once more, "I'm going to save them."\nFind them? Find... the other girls? The ones she helped enslave?\nA jumbling of emotion boils up inside of me. "When?"\n"Wait! Find who? Where are you going? You can't just... leave!" Mirio snaps, eyes wildly bouncing between Whitney and myself.\nShe just ignores him, though. "Soon. Maybe a week or so."\n"Stop!" Mirio cuts in, his breaths coming heavily, "What the hell is going on?! You never said anything about leaving!"\nWhitney turns her eyes on him then and he stills. "I have to. It's the only thing I can do. I'm not a hero anymore. But I'm not a villain. I can't be a model either. I have nothing and I still haven't done enough to make up for what I did." She looks at Tamaki now, who's still unable to speak. "I know I'm not good enough for you and I'm sorry that I ever thought I was. I wish I were. But you taught me a lot and I'm thankful for that."\nOh man, I got front row seats for this drama. I'm so glad she saved this for when we got back. For all that Maki says they were invested in my relationship with Taishiro, I've been invested in this crazy love triangle. Now things are getting really juicy. I can't even imagine how this is going to turn out.\nTamaki looks taken aback at her sudden proclamation but that quickly turns to the anguish of some internal struggle he's having. I remember those months ago the way he sounded so incredibly hurt when he confronted her about her betrayal. Does he... still feel something for her?\nThen, his expression becomes more determined. He seems to have come to some decision.\n"I'll go with you."\n"What?!" Both Mirio and I cry out at the same time.\nWhitney's eyes just go wide and she's rendered speechless.\nThis whole thing has gone from entertaining to gut-wrenching in a heartbeat.\n"Tamaki, you can't! Please!" I beg him, "Tai needs you here!"\nHe just shakes his head. "Red and Steel will graduate soon. I'm sure they'd be willing to take my place."\nMy heart is racing with panic. He can't go! He just can't! Just the thought of him not being here... It's so wrong!\n"Tamaki, think this through!" Mirio tries, "She said she might never come back!"\n"I know," Tamaki smiles faintly, "I'll make sure she does."\nNow Whitney is the silent one, her eyebrows turned up, completely shocked by this turn of events. I'm fairly sure we all are.\n"What's goin on?" Taishiro asks, emerging from the hallway with Ei and Tetsu in tow, Hinata tucked into his arm.\n"Tamaki's leaving!" I answer immediately, sending Taishiro a look of desperation.\nHis eyes then turn to Tamaki who's looking frazzled himself.\n"No... I..."\n"Whitney wants to leave to find more of the girls who were kidnapped and now Tamaki's saying he's going with her," Mirio clarifies as I'm unable to do so.\n"Wait! You guys are gonna leave?" Ei joins the conversation with a look of extreme concern, "But you're Fat's sidekick!"\nTamaki seems more than a little overwhelmed at all of the attention this has brought him and he stiffens up, turning away from us.\n"I said I'd be back..."\nFinally managing to pull herself together, Whitney moves toward Tamaki, placing herself in his line of vision.\n"Why..."\nI can see Tamaki's hands clenching, trying not to grab at his hood. "You are good enough. Don't say that. Being with you.. and Mirio has made me so happy happier than I've ever been I don't want to lose that."\n...heeeeh?\nColor bleeds onto Mirio's cheeks as he watches them, then lays hands on both of their shoulders. "I'll go too."\nWHAT THE FUCK IS HAPPENING?!\nMy head snaps toward Taishiro but he looks just as blindsided as I feel. Ei and Tetsu look much the same. How did this day just turn into something like this so suddenly?!\n"You... you can't," Whitney chokes out, eyes watering, "This isn't hero work. I'm crossing borders and stealing people back. Heroes can't function outside of their country without express permission. It'll all be illegal. I can't make you do that."\n"I want to." Strangely, Mirio is the first to answer. "We worked all this time to arrest all of these perpetrators. I want to save someone now."\n"Don't leave us behind," Tamaki says, taking her hand, "We can help you."\nThe tears glistening in Whitney's eyes begin to stream down her cheeks in little rivulets. She moves forward to hug them both and she meets my eye over their shoulders.\nThose vibrant green eyes look utterly shocked... and heartbroken.\n"Okay," she sighs, still looking in my eyes and I can see her resolve hardening. She shakes her head at me but still addresses them, "You can come."\nThat night, I can't get that look in her eyes out of my mind as I lay in bed, trying to sleep. That shake of her head... Did she want me to stop them from leaving with her? Talk them out of it?\nMaybe tomorrow I'll try to talk to each of them and see what can be done. Whitney seems to have made up her mind. I know I won't be able to stop her. But if she wants me to stop Tamaki and Mirio, I can at least try.\nBut the next day, Whitney doesn't show up at the agency in the morning and her phone goes straight to voicemail. The look of intense dread growing on Tamaki's face throughout the day is nearly painful to watch and Mirio seems to become more and more distressed.\nAcceptance finally settles on them as Taishiro closes the doors at the end of the day and I've also come to realize what that small shake of her head meant.\nWhitney's gone.\nShe never sets foot inside the agency again.\n6 MONTHS LATER\n"You don't need me to help you train anymore," Shota says as he sits at our table having just finished lunch with us.\nHinata is at Taishiro's mother's house being spoiled rotten for the day so we scheduled a meet up with our surly friend. We haven't been able to see him much since Hinata was born.\nI didn't expect this sudden assertion out of the blue. Why is he bringing this up now?\nMy brows knit together in concern. Looking over at Taishiro, I can see he's got a similar unsettled expression.\n"What does that mean?" I ask.\n"It means exactly what I said. You have enough control over your quirk for me to not have to be a part of your training anymore. You have for a while."\nWhy does that not feel like that's it, though? Why am I feeling like this is some kind of severance between us?\n"Okay," I say glumly, "That's... that's good, right?"\nHe nods once, though he doesn't meet my eye.\nWhat's going on here? My heart is hurting looking at him now and for some reason I'm suddenly remembering sitting on his couch watching movies with him and Eri. The way his love for me tasted on my tongue. He made my life bearable for those weeks.\n"Is something wrong, Zawa?" Taishiro asks, more keen than I am to get to the bottom of this.\nShota shakes his head. "Nothing. I just wanted you to know that."\n"O-okay. Well... thank you for all you've done for us, Shota," I say, patting his hand, "I hope you'll still want to be around, even if you're not training me."\nHe looks up at me, finally meeting my eyes and there's that expression again. The expression of letting go.\n"I don't think that's a good idea. You two are growing a family now and I'm not going to get in the way of that. You don't need me anymore so-"\n"Of course we need you, Zawa. You're our friend," Taishiro insists, "What does having a family have to do with it? You have a family too."\n"I have a ward."\n"You have a daughter," I correct him, "And you have all of those kids in your class. You're even busier than we are and you make time to come see us. You're not getting in the way."\nShota grits his teeth, turning his eyes back toward the table. "It's not appropriate. This is- How long could this last? It was only supposed to be for as long as I trained you."\n"Is that what you want? You don't want this... thing with us anymore?"\nHe sighs. "What I want doesn't matter-"\n"I still want you here," I say assuredly, "I want you here until you've had enough of us."\nTaishiro nods his agreement.\nShota groans, ruffling his hair with a hand. "You're making this harder than it needs to be. I'm trying to let you have a normal life."\n"We have a normal life," Taishiro says, "Our relationship with you doesn't make it abnormal. Do you want to stay or not?"\nShota doesn't answer, just stares at his hands and digs his nails into the wooden table.\n"You do want to stay," I answer for him.\nHe still says nothing but he jumps when my foot pushes up his pants leg.\n"I- I don't." He shoves my foot away with his own.\nNormally I would be hurt by something like this and give up this fight. If someone weren't interested, they just weren't and I could move on.\nBut I see what's happening here now. I know what he's doing. And I'm not going to make it easy for him to just walk away like that when he doesn't want to.\n"One more time then," I say, my foot grazing his leg again and he doesn't stop me this time as he considers.\nI slide it up his calf and he shivers, meeting my eyes and I quirk a brow at him as a fresh pine scent tickles my nose.\nHe lets it trail up to his crotch where I find him already aroused and he twitches when I stroke my foot along his length.\nHeat permeates my body, pooling in my abdomen with an intense ache and my eyes go to Taishiro. He can sense my giddiness and reaches out to push his fingers through my hair.\nI take his hand in mine and press it into my cheek, kissing his palm lightly. I love the feel of his skin on mine.\nBut my foot is still on Shota's erection and it pulses when I continue lightly stroking him under the table.\nAt the same time, I kiss up Taishiro's palm, my kisses getting more and more sloppy as I trail up toward his fingers.\nHe's watching me with rapt attention, or rather my lips as they press against his fingers.\nWhen I get to the tip of his index finger, my mouth opens wider and both of their lust immediately floods my nose.\nSticking my tongue just barely out of my mouth, I lick the pad of his finger, caressing it softly. Meanwhile, under the table, a similar motion is happening to Shota's tip with my toes. It's like he can almost feel what he's watching me do to Taishiro's fingers.\n"Aiko..." Taishiro's breath is bated as he watches me, his golden eyes glittering.\nLooking over at Shota, he too watches my mouth, his own lips slightly parted.\nI lick up and down Taishiro's index finger over and over, also stroking Shota's cock with the same motion and at some point I notice he's begun just barely thrusting up to meet my foot, eyes still locked on my mouth.\nSuddenly, I pull away. Both from Taishiro and Shota and they each let out a frustrated breath, although Taishiro's hand quickly finds its way back into my hair again.\nI meet Shota's eyes determinedly.\n"One. More. Time," I say again.\nI can see Shota's jaw clenching and unclenching under that stubble as he stares me down.\n"One," is all he says in reply as he rises from his chair.\nAt first I think he's about to walk toward the bedroom, taking the lead for us.\nBut instead, he walks around the table to stand in front of me, pulling my chair out to face him.\nHe's still fully aroused and does nothing to hide the imprint of his length in his pants.\nI want to reach out to him; touch that length in the way my foot was moments ago but that's not how this relationship works. Shota is always the one who has to be in control. He chooses where I touch him and when. I can tease him and try to seduce him but when he's made up his mind, it's time for me to obey. But with the way he puts me in my place, I'm more than happy to let him have his way.\n"Fat," he says, dark eyes still burning into mine, "Take her hands."\nTaishiro obliges, standing from his chair to take his place behind me and pulls my arms up over my head, firmly locking my wrists in his grip.\n"Don't let her go until I tell you," Shota instructs and Taishiro nods, "But you can occupy her hands with other things if you want."\nI know exactly what he means when I feel Taishiro shift behind me, brushing his own arousal against my hands and my fingers twitch, itching to grasp him.\nBut I freeze as Shota kneels before me now, pushing my knees apart to look up my dress.\nFor some reason my face feels hot with embarrassment with the way his attention is focused between my legs. He's seen me before hell, he's watched me have sex multiple times but this has never happened before. It's always been me blowing him while Taishiro fucks me and there was one other time he fucked my tits. That's been it, though. Taishiro and I have stuck to the boundaries we set of not having actual sex with other people.\nBut that also means Shota is more than welcome to slide his hands up my thighs, as he's doing now, and brush his fingers over the damp cloth of my panties before pulling them aside.\nLooking up at Taishiro, I can see his golden eyes glittering with excitement, his scent rolling off of him in waves as he watches my affected face.\nShota leans forward, lips parted, and kisses my right thigh, then my left.\nI can feel my inner walls clench in anticipation and my breaths quicken as I wait for his next move.\nThen his tongue which I suddenly realize I've never felt on me before darts out to lick at my legs and I jolt at the contact.\nA whine is already falling from my lips and I clench my hands into fists, wanting so badly to just shove his face into my crotch.\n"Already so antsy," Taishiro murmurs, keeping my wrists tightly held in his grip.\nMy tail is whipping back and forth as Shota moves up my thigh, his stubble scratching my skin in an oddly delicious way.\nI try to shift closer but Taishiro somehow holds me back. Are they in on this torture together?\nCloser. Closer still.\nFuuuck, that tongue is so close and my legs are already shaking. What is he doing to me?!\nFinally, his tongue just lightly grazes along my slit and that's what has me bucking up, trying to push my hips into his face. He only backs away slightly, though, sending me an admonishing glare.\nI don't care, though. I try to reach for him but Taishiro holds my wrists tight and when I try to move my legs, I notice his hands are still on my thighs, keeping them in place.\nGoddammit! What do I have to do to get him to lick me like I want?! He's the one who started this!\nWhen I calm all but my breathing, Shota finally pushes forward again and another whine escapes my lips as his tongue grazes me again.\nHe pulls back to gauge my reaction but I don't fight this time. He's fucking training me, the bastard.\nAs a reward, his tongue finally delves fully between my folds and I let out a small cry of pleasure. My head falls back and Taishiro is there, leering down at me.\n"You look so beautiful like that, Ai-chan," he says, rubbing his hardness against my hand again.\nI open my hands, letting him grind himself against my palms as I luxuriate in the way Shota's tongue trails up and down my slit.\n"Let me see you," I whisper to Taishiro, lightly squeezing him and receiving a gasp from him in response.\nHe doesn't try to argue.\nQuickly, he unzips his pants, pulling out that gorgeous thickness I'm so head over heels for and he goes back to thrusting into my palm.\nShota definitely knows what he's doing. The way his tongue is stroking my clit, lingering to swirl around it is driving me insane.\nHis hair is so long, it's begging for me to grasp big chunks of it and pull him into me but with Taishiro now occupying my hands, I have to just accept whatever he'll give me.\nI feel the familiar ascent of my pleasure toward climax and my breathing picks up, moaning as I tilt my hips toward him.\nBut Shota pulls back then and I can't keep back the groan of disappointment. What the hell? He really is trying torture me.\n"Not yet," he says in a gravelly voice, "I'm not as nice as Fat."\nHe stands and I have to hold back a growl. He really is training me! I'm not snapping at him like I used to!\n"You can let her go now, Fat. Take her to the bedroom."\nI'm not the only one well-trained, I suppose. Taishiro pulls away and lets go of my wrists, deftly lifting me into his arms over the back of the chair with hardly any effort. Ugh, I still love when he uses his strength like that.\nHe starts making his way down the hall to the bedroom and Shota follows behind us quietly. I wonder what his plan is exactly.\nI don't really care, though. If this is my last time with him, I'm going to get my own damn way.\nBefore we reach the bedroom, I turn in Taishiro's arms, circling mine around his neck so I can haul myself into a position that's more like straddling him. I wrap my legs around his hulking form and use his surprised lack of balance to shove him into the hallway wall, kissing him hungrily.\nTaishiro groans as his savory flavor bursts on my tongue and he quickly adapts to this change of plans, running his hands up my thighs to cup my ass.\nMy wings flutter excitedly and I buck my hips against him, letting him know exactly what I'm desperate for. I'm aching and feeling so unsatisfied after Shota's teasing.\nTaishiro can sense my desperation but is hesitant. He seems concerned that Shota is being left out of this interaction, although I can feel Shota's hand twisting around my tail as though toying with a lock of hair. He doesn't seem to mind much.\n"Please," I ask, looking up at him from under my lashes and grinding my hips against him again.\nTaishiro's restraint gives in and, before I can even react to how rough he's being, he's yanking my dress over my head.\n"Say it again," he demands in a low voice, sending shivers up my spine, "Ask me nicely to fuck you."\nMy tail curls and I can feel my panties getting even wetter at his authoritative tone.\n"Please fuck me, Fat-kun," I say desperately, hoping that my name usage will show him how subservient I'm willing to be.\nIt seems to have worked with the way his eyes darken and the grin that spreads on his face is nothing but predatory.\nTaishiro is so frantic to get to me that he tears the panties off of my hips. I suppose lace panties aren't going to stand a chance when he's this worked up.\nWe also haven't gotten very much time to be intimate in general while caring for Hinata these past months. The times we have gotten that time have had to be quiet in order to not wake him or attract his attention. So this is also our own chance for what we've both been craving for a while.\nTaishiro's fingers move along my slit, dipping into my wetness as I writhe in anticipation.\n"You're soaked, honey." He smiles down at me with satisfaction.\nI pull his face back to mine, trying to move my hips along his fingers for more friction and he chuckles into my mouth.\nHe reaches a hand down and I hear rustling as he pulls his length out again. I'm almost sobbing with need by now.\nI feel his tip gliding between my folds, lubricating himself before he places it at my entrance.\nHe pushes into me, sighing heavily as he fully sheathes himself and I grip him even tighter, my own moan falling from my lips.\nI needed this. I needed to feel him inside me again for once. How long has it been?\nAs he begins to move, slowly rocking his hips at first, I break from our kiss to pant heavily against his chest, my wings flaring at my back.\nBut then something is tugging me backwards and I lose purchase, falling back a short ways into Shota's chest, the one who pulled me. I'd almost forgotten him there, despite the fact that he's never stopped toying with my tail.\nWithout saying anything at all, his mouth is already on my neck, licking and biting with relish and his hands go to my breasts, already freed as I hadn't been wearing a bra today.\nHe cups them gently, fingers sinking into my soft flesh, and slowly massages them, thumb occasionally glancing over my nipples.\nA pathetic whimper peals from my throat as I enjoy his delicate caresses while Taishiro continues moving inside of me.\nHis thrusts become more powerful, skin slapping together and I cry out, clamping down harder with my legs as I lay my head back on Shota's shoulder.\nHe's watching my face now with half-lidded eyes, hands still deftly fondling my breasts.\nNow is the time, I realize. Now I might be able to get something I've been dreaming of since the first day he put his hands on me.\n"Fuck me," I beg him in a weak voice, "Fuck my ass, sensei. Please."\nI cleared this with Taishiro months ago when we were talking about kinks. He's always been so accommodating about trying something I might enjoy. I told him about my fantasy of having him in the front and Shota in the back and rather than being uncomfortable with it or feeling overly jealous of me, he seemed amused.\n"You have the dirtiest mind, Ai-chan," he'd said with a wicked grin on his face, "If you can convince him to do it, I'll be happy to help you live out that fantasy."\nNow it seems like Shota is past being able to form words, let alone voice a complaint.\nHis eyes widen only momentarily and he pauses all movement in that time.\nThen, his lips are on mine in a rush, crushing my lips with his own and not even allowing the gasp that wants to escape me before I taste the smokey flavor of his lust surrounding my tongue.\nOh god. He's never kissed me before. He's never done so many of these things before and it feels so uplifting and heartbreaking all at once. He's letting us be more intimate and at the same time, I know it will be the last time. I'll never feel him this way again. I want to savor this moment.\nAll too soon, he's breaking our kiss to push me forward toward Taishiro again and Taishiro halts his movement to take hold of me and lower himself slightly, seeing Shota's intention.\n"You're such a spoiled girl," he says quietly into my ear, "Always getting what you want with those pretty begging eyes of yours."\nYes. I am spoiled. Both of them spoil me rotten with their attention.\nShota steps forward and I can hear his rattling breaths as he leans his forehead against my back.\nThe warm tip of his own cock brushes along my ass and I shiver, my tail beginning to stroke his chest.\nI've been wet for so long, there's no part of me that isn't dripping with my juices. He doesn't even need to get lube.\nInstead, he tests me, sliding a finger inside of me, causing me to let out a little whimper as he starts moving that slowly in and out.\nWhen he's satisfied with that, he adds another finger that makes me involuntarily tighten around him and he stops, waiting for me to relax again.\nTaishiro remains still, knowing how delicate this can be. We've done this plenty of times before ourselves and he's waiting for the go ahead to start again. He seems to be enjoying the way my muscles tighten around him occasionally too, though.\nFinally, Shota pulls his fingers away and positions his tip at my entrance, coating himself with my juices first.\n"Are you ready?" He asks shakily, his sweat-slickened forehead still pressing into my back.\nHe sounds so nervous, almost as nervous as the first time he joined us. It gives me a little bit more confidence to push forward.\n"Yes," I whine, "Please, sens-"\nHe pushes into me and I immediately cut off, a strangled cry replacing my words as I dig my nails into Taishiro who only holds me tighter.\nShota is still for a moment, waiting for me to relax again before he begins to very slowly rock his hips against me.\nTaishiro still waits, holding my head against his chest until my grip loosens and I sigh, beginning to melt into the feeling of Shota moving inside of me.\nShota's making small grunts each time he fully pushes into me and his breaths are heavy against my back.\nNow that Taishiro is more certain I'm comfortable, he starts his pace up again, keeping that leisurely rhythm with Shota.\nI'm floating now; drifting in a world of ecstasy as I'm held between two delicious men, filled to the brim with their cocks, and little moans begin falling from my lips each time they thrust into me.\nIt's almost too much. I've had Taishiro at my back and a vibrator inside of me before but that's not comparable to this. The feeling of two people moving in tandem inside of me, the sounds of their voices as they find their own pleasure, and the scents of their lust crashing together and filling my nose.\nBoth of them have their hands on me now. Taishiro's on my thighs, keeping me supported with his overwhelming strength, Shota's on my waist keeping my hips tilted back so he can have easier access to my ass.\nThis is heaven. This is what nirvana feels like. The intimacy and the comfort and the raw sexuality of sharing this moment with them. This is everything I fantasized about and more.\nI arch my back and lean backwards, resting my head on Shota's shoulder again. I take his hands in my own and place them on my breasts once more, willing him to play with them again.\nHe obliges, but isn't anywhere near as gentle this time. He has less control now and digs his fingers into my flesh, thumbs roughly rubbing over my peaked nipples.\nI love the way his voice becomes more affected in my ear, though, clearly excited to have so much access to my body for once.\n"You just... want every part... to feel good... don't you?"\nI don't think I can even speak right now. I've forgotten my own language. I can only nod, a prolonged groan coming my throat when he pinches my nipples between his thumbs and forefingers.\nHe makes a guttural sound of his own in response and starts picking up his speed, his breathing also becoming more ragged.\n"You're being... a very good girl today," he praises me and a feeling of elation sweeps through my body, wings fluttering.\nAgain, I can only whine in response.\n"You like being told you feel good on my cock?" He growls into my ear.\nI nod again but he doesn't accept this and pinches my nipples again, making me cry out.\n"You tell me with that filthy mouth of yours."\n"Y- yea," I slur and he pinches me again.\n"Say. It. Right."\nTears prick at my eyes. Somewhat in pain but mostly in the overwhelming pleasure rippling through my body as they both slam into me over and over.\n"Y-Yes," I sob, the tears leaking from my eyes, "Yes, sensei. I love when you pleasure yourself with my body."\nHis touch on my breasts softens and he presses a short kiss to my temple.\n"That's a good girl... And do you... want me... to cum in this tight ass of yours?"\nMy eyes go to Taishiro then and he's watching this exchange with a face that's blissfully drunk. He's clearly enjoying the way Shota is making me submit to him. It's his favorite thing to watch me writhe and scream in pleasure.\n"Yes-s, sensei," my voice more keening than speaking says, "Please. Please, I want to feel your cum inside of me."\nA rough growl rumbles in Shota's chest, greatly enjoying my response.\n"Fat," he addresses the other man, "help her cum faster." Then his attention is immediately on me again, "Is that what you want? You want Fat to play with your clit until you cum?"\nTaishiro doesn't wait for my response, his fingers are already on my clit, circling it, then rubbing his thumb already slickened with my juices back and forth across it.\nA scream, animalistic and powerful, rips from my throat and I'm jarred by how quickly I'm feeling my orgasm approaching.\n"Yes!" I howl with desperation, "Yes, I wanna cum sensei! Please fuck my ass until I cum!"\nIt's too much! It's everywhere! My pussy, my ass, my tits, my clit, even the feel of Shota's tongue on my ear. Every single part of my body feels pleasure with just a single touch.\nMy orgasm is racing toward me and Shota and Taishiro's grunts become more forceful, feeling the way my muscles are tensing. They're pushing themselves to the edge as well.\nMy orgasm looms and Shota's voice is in my ear again.\n"Cum, baby girl, cum for us. Let us hear that pretty voice of yours.'\nThen my orgasm crashes into me and I see nothing but stars bursting in beautiful colors all around me as I scream my euphoria, spasming as each wave rolls over me again and again.\nA fierce grunt comes from Shota first and he stops his ministrations, only holding onto me as he shudders and I feel his cock pulsing, cumming inside of me just like I asked.\nTaishiro only needs a few more vicious thrusts of his own before he too is groaning, bruising my thighs with the strength of his grip as the warmth of his cum pumps into me.\nGod, it feels so amazing, riding out my orgasm and feeling both of them filling me with their cum. I've never known anything like it. Will this really be the last time between us?\nWhen our breathing has calmed, Shota pulls back, tucking himself back into his pants and, as usual, being the first to go for towels to clean me up as Taishiro sets me on my feet, then promptly lifts me again when my legs are too wobbly to stand on.\n"This way," Shota says, still making his way toward the bedroom and I exchange a look of surprise with Taishiro.\nShota has only ever stayed for one round before promptly leaving with an air of near awkwardness. Now he's leading us toward our bed like... he's going to keep going.\nHe motions for Taishiro to sit on the bed and stands near him, pointing to the floor.\n"Kneel," he commands and I do so the moment Tiashiro sets me down, "Now that you've gotten what you want. You're going to give me what I want. Then you're going to give him what he wants."\nI stare up at him with fawn-like eyes, feeling tired but wanting to submit to him so badly. Looking over at Taishiro, I can see a smirk playing on his lips. He's more than happy to continue.\nStrength floods my muscles as I pull energy from my reserves and I nod my assent.\nShota steps forward to grasp my hair.\nA long while later, we're sprawled out on the bed, my head on Taishiro's chest and Shota's arm around my waist.\nI turn toward him now, heart sinking at the knowledge this is it, the very end.\n"If you really don't want this anymore," I say, laying my hand on his stubbled cheek, "I won't force you. But... at least stay our friend. I don't want to lose you."\nShota actually allows me to see his face soften toward me for once. His dark chocolate eyes watch me with tenderness and he lays his head on my still slightly pudgy stomach.\nHe sighs heavily with the weight of someone carrying a large burden.\n"I want to keep on. I care for you both and you're... not intimidated by my dominant side." I want to snort at that. Taishiro's dominant side leaves me with bite marks, welts, and bruises. Of course Shota's wouldn't bother me. "But you deserve normalcy after everything. You deserve peace, Aiko. I won't get in the way of that."\nWarmth spreads throughout my chest and I have to blink back tears. This is a good man. Just as good and kind as Taishiro. So many things he's done were for our sakes. And he still continues to this very day.\n"You're a part of that peace, Shota," I tell him, brushing his hair away from his eyes, "I still want you here. So please. Stay."\nShota's lips press together as he watches my face, deep in thought.\n"If you... really want me to still see you both of you then... I will."\nI smile over at Taishiro who looks pleased and grins back at me.\n"We do," he says to Shota, patting him on the shoulder, "You are always welcome here."\nShota doesn't respond but he holds onto me just a little bit tighter and doesn't let me go until he's fallen asleep.\nI've bitten one thumbnail down to the quick and have now begun on the other as my eyes stay glued to the small stick in front of me.\nI feel nauseous. I don't know if it's nerves or...\nI can see the liquid seeping through the test. Why is it taking so damn long?!\nMy wings rustle restlessly behind me, still watching.\nCome on... Come on...\nI don't even understand my own emotions right now. Am I excited? Am I scared?\nI don't know! I just need to find out the truth!\nMy stomach has been aching so much and my boobs are fucking killing me. I've been ignoring it for days thinking there's no possible way this could've happened again.\nIt's only been two years since I had Hinata. I got my birth control put back in as soon as possible and yet here I am again, anxiously hiding in the bathroom waiting for this pregnancy test. All Might... what would happen if I weren't on birth control?\nThe liquid's seeped all the way through the test now and I don't know if I've ever stared so intensely at anything in my life as I wait for the pink lines to show up.\nFirst, the control line. Then...\nI let out a breath in one big whoosh when the second line begins to darken. A positive. Another positive...\nTaking a few more deep breaths, I try to calm my racing heart and think through my shifting emotions.\nAm I ready for another baby? Do I want more than one child?\nI've loved my time with Hinata. I've loved everything about being a mother. Seeing him grow hearing him tell me how much he loves me nothing has ever made me happier.\nCould another baby really make me just as happy? Or would it feel like double the pressure?\n"Mama?" Hinata's tiny voice comes through the door. "You feel bad?"\nI guess I've been in here for a while. No wonder he's worried. I'll have to think more on this later.\n"No, baby, I'll be right out," I say, putting the cap back on the test and shoving it in my pocket.\nMy heart feels so jumbled up, it feels like I can't fully think one thought before another crowds its way in. I'm pregnant again. Another baby is growing inside of me right now. What do I do?! What do I do?!\nWhen I'm finally able to emerge from the bathroom, Hinata's standing at the doorway, waiting for me, dressed in only a shirt and his diaper.\n"Weren't you supposed to be taking a nap, bright-eyes?" I ask him as he stares up at me with the big, bold eyes that earned him his nickname.\nHe just gives me a sad puppy look and holds his arms up above his head his signal for wanting up.\nI huff an amused sigh and bend down to pick him up.\n"I missed Mama," he says, laying his head on my shoulder and snuggling in.\nOh geez. I can't be annoyed with him after that response.\n"Okay, I'll sit with you until you fall asleep," I concede, patting his tiny back.\nHe just grips me tighter. "Noooo. No nap. I want Mama."\n"It's naptime, though, bright-eyes. We can't skip naptime."\nHe doesn't respond. Instead, burying his face in my neck.\nHe's so affectionate and always open about what he's feeling. It reminds me once again that I was right to believe Taishiro would be a good father. He's teaching him kindness and nurturing and openness already.\n"Fine," I murmur warmly, running my fingers through his soft lavender curls."Let's go sit on the couch then, hm? I'll put Puppy Playtime on."\nHinata nods against my neck, still holding tightly and I can practically see his victorious smile. He knows I break so easily. This will surely bite me in the ass one day.\nI make my way to the couch and sit, turning his favorite show on. He still refuses to let me go, though. Instead, he just turns his head to watch and continues clinging to me as I pet his head. He's being so clingy today!\nBefore the episode is even over, Hinata's weight slumps in my arms. I pull him back a little to check and, sure enough, he's fallen asleep.\nSo much for not wanting a nap...\nFor a moment, I consider getting up and placing him back in his bed. He still needs to work on sleeping there on his own.\nBut another part of me is reveling in the joy I feel at him wanting to cuddle me. This won't last forever.\nI turn something else on that I can watch in comfort while I hold him for his nap.\nHe's getting so big already. He's growing up so fast and I want him to slow down. I want him to be my baby boy just a little bit longer.\nI hear the key in the door and watch as Taishiro comes through the door, slipping his hefty boots off and removing his hero costume.\nWhen he catches sight of us, he grins and heads our way.\n"How was your day off, sweetheart?" He lays his hand on Hinata's head a moment before taking a seat next to me on the couch.\n"It was good," I say, "We went for a little walk, got to play with some other kids on the playground, watch some Puppy Playtime. It was a good day."\nTaishiro's grin grows wider and he leans into me for a small kiss.\nWhen he pulls back, he strokes my cheek fondly. "Good. I'm glad. You look so happy when you get to take days off with him."\nA blush creeps onto my cheeks as I smile at him in return. "I am. I don't get to spend as much time with him as I want to now that I'm teaching so much."\n"I know, Mama. But he still loves you more than anything. That won't change. You're still an amazing mother."\nMy heart clenches as I stare up at him, my eyes tearing up. He knows exactly what to say to make me feel better.\nAnd, with a start, I realize that I do feel better. As usual, Taishiro's presence has calmed the storm that's been raging inside of me until now. Looking into his eyes and being reassured by him has finally given me the answer to my questions.\nOf course I want another baby. I love my time with Hinata but I know I could have another baby and love them just as much. I am ready.\n"Hang on a sec. Stay right there," I say, standing and taking Hinata to his room.\nHe only shifts a little when I lay him down but he doesn't wake.\nWhen I return to the living room, Taishiro is exactly where I left him though he does have a puzzled expression as he looks up at me.\n"What's up, honey?"\nI fish in my pocket for a moment and wrap my fingers around the small test there. Then, I take a few steps toward him, close enough for him to put his hands at my waist.\nHe still watches me with infatuated eyes. Even after seeing me at my worst even after being with me for years now he still looks at me with the same reverence as the first night we met.\n"I have a surprise for you," I say with a pleased smile.\n"Oh?"\nHis eyes darken a little bit and he gets a more devious expression, his eyes glancing down toward my body now, possibly expecting there to be lingerie under my clothing. He's still as frisky as ever too.\n"Not that," I giggle, although maybe later...\nI pull the small test out of my pocket and hold it out to him.\nImmediately, the deviousness is gone, replaced with confused curiosity as he takes it from me.\n"What's th-"\nHe cuts off mid sentence, his whole body going rigid as he stares at the test, so tiny in his fingers. I think he might've stopped breathing.\n"Ai-chan," he breathes out, the one hand he still has on my waist, gripping me tighter, "Are you... You're..."\nMoving his hand from my waist, I place it on my abdomen, swallowing thickly as my nerves start to rattle around inside of me.\n"I'm pregnant," I tell him, my voice shaking.\nShimmering golden eyes greet me as he looks up at me with wonder. Then a smile, so bright and dazzling spreads across his face, stealing my own breath away before he pulls me down to him, wrapping me in those massive, muscled arms of his.\n"Oh Ai-chan," he whispers, holding me tightly, "I'm so happy. I'm so-" he breaks off and I hear a tiny sniffle escape him, "I love you so much."\nSomething bright and beautiful blooms in my chest and washes through my body as he holds me, rejoicing. This is the reaction I'd wanted the first time. It's what I dreamed of and mourned the possibility of when things didn't go the way I'd planned. I wanted this. I wanted to see this face and let my joy combine with his. Now I've finally gotten to have this moment. And it's as perfect as I'd hoped.\nTaishiro pulls back and presses his lips to mine in a kiss as passionate as the earlier days of our relationship.\nThe scent of his love curls in my nose, so sweet and comforting, and when he pulls back again, I see that devious look has returned.\n"We do have some time, honey," he says, voice a slightly deeper tone.\nI can smell a light cinnamon scent beginning to blend with the softer one and my body heats at the way he stares at me now.\nMy wings flutter at my back and he moves his hand along the curve of my waist, waiting for my response. Damn, he's got me. He's only gotten better at knowing exactly how to seduce me.\nWithout a word, I pull his face down to mine and he grins, meeting my lips greedily as he yanks my leggings down my hips.\nEpilogue\n"So you can't be afraid of your quirk," I say, speaking to a small group of children with ages ranging from six to ten, "You have to embrace it and understand that it's a part of you. Yes, you are capable of doing things that can hurt people but I promise you that your quirk can help so many more with the proper training. And that's what we're here to do."\nLooking around, I see fearful eyes that are starting to show the smallest hints of hopefulness.\n"I won't give up on you all. I won't call you a monster. I won't write you off. You're not alone. Both Eri and I also struggled to control our quirks once. We know what you're going through and the fear you feel."\nThe kids in front of me nod, their hope seeming to grow. Many of them have gloves on, some are wearing specialized glasses, one even has almost all of his body covered save for his face.\nAll of these kids either have, or have come close to, hurting someone with their quirks. They've come to me in desperation and I'm here to help them control their quirks; along with the help of Eri, and in extreme cases, Shota.\nThis is what I chose to move on to after retiring from modeling.\nI teach quirk rehabilitation to children after the school day is over. Sorta like a cram school. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays I teach younger kids and Tuesdays and Thursdays, I teach the older children up to age 18.\nI've been doing this for nearly eight years now and have helped countless kids reconnect not only with the people around them, but themselves. I've never felt more fulfilled in my life.\nI also still occasionally take on aspiring models to coach, having finally come to terms with the fact that I don't completely hate that industry after all. What can I say? Maybe I really do enjoy mentoring.\nAfter dismissing my class, I turn to Eri now. She's nearly 18 and is scaring the hell out of Shota now that she's going to graduate high school and become a full-fledged support hero when thai school year is over..\n"Thank you for your hard work today, Eri." I smile at her, taking the six-month-old baby she's been holding for most of the class from her and setting her at my hip.\n"It's not a problem, Aikonee-chan" She grins back, tucking long silver strands of hair behind her ear, "Tamako-chan is a sweetheart."\nTamako laughs, her tiny dark blue wings (those that match her hair we're not sure where that color came from) flapping excitedly as she waves at the retreating girl.\n"Zawatou-chan says he can come visit this weekend if you want."\n"That would be great," I tell her, "Tell him I'll cook dinner."\nWhen Eri has gone, I set Tamako on my lap while I go through a few of the papers the children have filled out, explaining what they're hoping to achieve by the end of the class. It makes my heart ache that so many of them say something as simple as "I want to be able to play tag with my friends." or "I want to hug my mom."\nI understand those feelings so well...\nI hear small feet thudding down the hall and stand when my door slides open.\n"Mama!" a four-year-old with light blonde pig-tails launches herself at my legs and hugs me fiercely.\n"Aiya," I laugh, laying a hand on her head, "Not so rough. You'll knock me over."\nAnd she will if I'm not careful. She's done it before. She's got the strength of her father, I swear.\n"Nii!" Tamako cries, making grabby hands at the stoic seven-year-old standing in the doorway, "Nii! Nii!"\nAlready, she's chosen who she loves more than anyone else in the family. More than her father more than me even she adores her older brother.\nAnd why wouldn't she? Hinata has retained the stunning beauty he had even as a baby. He's grown to be very calm and analytical and he doesn't smile often as he did as a baby. But he's still kind and when he does smile, as he does now when he takes Tamako from me, there's not a single heart in the room that goes unbroken.\nExcept for maybe Aiya's, who makes it her pastime to try and push his buttons.\n"You ready to go, Ai-chan?" Taishiro's voice sounds, ducking through the doorway to put an arm around my waist.\n"Yep, the kids in my class this year seem really great so far. I can't wait to start working with them."\n"That's great, sweetheart. How about you tell me about them on the way home?"\n"How about you tell me how the first day of Mai's internship went?" I grin at him and he laughs, shaking his head.\n"She's energetic. I'll give her that."\nI stop him before he ushers us through the door and pull him down for a soft kiss, nuzzling his nose before I pull back.\nHinata makes a soft "Tch." sound while Aiya sticks her tongue out. "Yucky."\n"Don't you 'yucky' me," Taishiro growls, scooping the giggling girl into his arms and tickling her relentlessly.\n"Ah... Um..." I hear a tiny voice at the doorway and find someone standing there. A girl, probably no more than 19 or so years old.\nTaishiro halts, quieting Aiya while I step toward the newcomer.\n"Hi," I hold out my hand, "Are you here for the-"\nA small gasp escapes my throat when someone else steps into my view.\n"I found her at a nightclub in Okinawa," Whitney says, laying a hand on the girl's shoulder and, to my unending surprise, wings too small to be able to lift her flare from the girl's back.\nShe's got dark blue hair. And dark blue wings. Like Tamako. Like... like my father? Our father.\n"She's having the same problems," Whitney informs me, "But it's not as bad as you yet. I told her you could help her."\nThe girl looks uncomfortable, her cheeks reddening. She's ashamed of her quirk and her needs, like I was.\nI motion for Taishiro to go on ahead without me and he gives a nod of understanding, leaving with our kids in tow. The girl watches them leave with sparkling, tearful eyes.\n"You absorb energy through your tongue?" I ask her and she nods.\n"And desire is the easiest to absorb."\nShe nods again.\n"Can you smell it too?"\nShe shakes her head at that and my brow furrows a little. Maybe that was something I got from my mother.\n"I can help you," I tell her in a soft voice, "I had this problem too. I became dependent on energy just to survive and I hurt someone I love with my addiction. But I learned to control it and I learned to absorb more than lust. I'm positive you can too."\nFor the first time, the girl meets my eyes with shining emerald ones. "You... you can really make this stop? I-I'm so tired of being afraid that someone will find out."\n"Yes," I smile down at her, putting a comforting hand on her head, "If you're willing to work hard to control it, I can help you. But first I want to ask you: Do you know your father or anyone else like us?"\n"No," she says simply, "He was just some one night stand."\nI nod in understanding, not needing her to say more. He's still out there, being the awful person he is. Or maybe just that far gone into this addiction. I don't know.\n"Can I- Can I ask: Those were your kids? Aren't you afraid... they might be like us?"\n"I was," I tell her honestly, pulling my hand back to toy with a few strands of my hair, "But I promised myself and my husband that I would be there for them and teach them if that were the case."\nBut so far that's not been the case, it turns out. Hinata has come to be able to absorb energy through his skin, like Taishiro can absorb objects into his body fat. He seems to be able to sense and absorb emotions much easier than I can. It's probably why he's become so serene himself. Aiya's quirk has also already begun to show in her strength that she gains from eating and gaining energy that way. Of course, Tamako is still to be determined.\n"If you stay in Osaka, I'll help you figure things out and start a new life," I offer, "Does that sound okay to you?"\nA genuine and beautiful smile brightens the girl's face and she nods. "Thank you, Toyomitsu-san."\n"You can just call me Aiko," I correct her.\n"Aiko," she amends, "I'm Tomoko. Mori Tomoko."\nI glance up at Whitney at that and her green eyes dance with knowing. So similar a name. A chance to be what Tomoyo was not.\nAs they head out to begin making arrangements for Tomoko to stay here, I take hold of Whitney's arm, turning her to face me again.\n"Will you be staying too?" I ask, my tail betraying my anxiousness waiting for her response.\nShe shakes her head with a pained smile. "I still have a lot of work to do."\nKidnapped girls have been returning home one by one over the years. It has to have been well over a hundred who have come back by now. She's done so much to atone for her sins. No one would blame her for wanting to finally rest.\n"Tamaki and Mirio will probably want to see you at least."\nWhitney goes rigid upon hearing their names, vivid green eyes swirling with emotion.\n"I can't. They're happy right?"\nI nod. They are happy. They've gone on together without her but that doesn't mean I don't catch them with pained expressions each time a girl comes home and no word is sent.\n"But they still miss you."\n"I won't get in their way. I just want them to be happy. Maybe someday... Or some other lifetime..."\nBefore I can object again, she's out the door, escorting my... half sister, I suppose, away.\nWhen Taishiro sees my face as I meet up with him at the train station, he pulls me in for a hug and Tamako, in his arms, pats my cheek.\n"I'm happy for you," he says softly, "Don't worry about Whitney. She'll come back. Let her finish what she started and she'll come back."\n"Thank you, Tai," I say, pulling away slightly and taking his other hand, squeezing it.\n"Home, Mama?" Aiya asks, pulling on my skirt with determination.\n"Home," I assure her.\nShe grins her little mischievous grin and pulls me energetically onto the train while Hinata scolds her for being too harsh. Taishiro boards after with a wriggling Tamako wanting to be part of the action. Then my small, beautiful family is whisked away toward home.