Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Mistreatment of hybrids was an unfortunate and ongoing problem. Laws to protect them could only do so much, and too many things were continuously swept under the proverbial rug. Kirishima Eijirou, aka, Pro Hero Red Riot was bearing witness to one such case of injustice done to the Hybrids. It was only one cruel injustice among many, but Eijirou would not hesitate to call it an atrocity.  His team was in the process of clearing out a building. Catching the offenders red handed right in the middle of a highly illegal Hybrid fighting ring. After months of planning, stakeouts, and gathering crucial evidence they were finally putting an end to an infamous Hybrid Fighting Club.

The main part of the warehouse had been relatively easy to contain. The operation had all exits blocked off with police, while they sent Pro Heroes in to crash the ‘party’. 

Eijirou was acting as one of their forerunners. His quirk was exceedingly useful for not only apprehending the main targets. But also not getting hurt by panicking Hybrids who were sure to lash out with teeth, claws; and in some cases quirks of their own.

The hardest part was tackling the rooms full of cages held in the warehouse bowels.

After the two Hybrids that were forced to fight were removed from the fighting ring. After the spectators had been bound and lined up against the walls for processing. After their operation had apprehended the main targets. It was only then that the pros’ job to find the rest of the fighting Hybrids came into play.

As soon as the door from the stairwell was broken open the few pros Eijirou was with gagged on the rancid stale air. It was obvious the underground holding cells were not ventilated properly. Rot. Mold. Iron. All swirling in a thick cloud of disease had overwhelmed the rescue team.

Eijirou choked as the sidekick beside him emptied her stomach all over the concrete.

"I-I'm sorry. I can't." She cried backing away on shaking legs.

A stiff and almost robotic 7uyyvoice answered curtly, "Go back up and send Uravity down."

Eijirou side stepped the younger hero as she ran back up the metal stairs.

"Ingenium..." Eijirou addressed his former classmate. "Do you really think...?"

Iida answered as Eijirou trailed off, the grimace audiblein his tone. "She's tough. She can handle it."

"Yeah... It's pretty bad though."

"Uravity specializes in rescue im sure shes seen a lot of... Unfavorable scenes."

Eijirou gulped again, "...Unfavorable is one way to put it. Down right disgusting is more accurate I'd think."

"Red Riot? Ingenium?" A soft voice lacking its usual bubble called out followed by footfalls. "Holy- That's..." There was a pause followed by mouth breathing and the crack of an com device.

"Can we get more EMTs at the top of the stairs please. C'mon boys, waiting'll only make it worse."

"Right." Eijirou said, squaring his shoulders and stalking off down the dimly lit hall.

Rust colored stains were crawling over the walls and across the floor. Water dripped from pipes. It was cold, causing Eijirou to put a layer of hardening over his skin to ward it off. Still, despite the cold there were black splatterings of mold pooling in moist areas.

"We need to be cautious if we don't wish to scare the hybrids held down here." Iida informed. "No loud noises, and no opening doors too fast."

"Of course." Uraraka answered at the same time Eijirou nodded humbly.

"No spooking anyone. Got it." Eijirou confirmed "We splittin up?"

"I believe that would be the best to get a lay of the area. We may have to bring in others to help, but we don't want to overwhelm any of the conscious captives. Best to judge their state of mind before bringing in a bunch of strangers." Uraraka answered. "Use your best judgment."

"Roger." 

"I'll hang back and catalog. You and Red Riot will be better at talking with the victims and evaluating their mental state." Iida replied curtly.

"I'll take the right, you take the left." Uraraka said before swiftly moving for her first door.

Eijirou turned away. His first door being a little further down. His steps echoed ominously down the dank hall despite his attentive efforts to be quiet. His hand on the cold steel handle sent shivers down his spine. Wiggling the knob had proved fruitless as it was locked.

No problem. 

Eijirou hardened his hand and the handle snapped right off. He removed the lock and the door swung freely with minimal effort. The inside smelled so much worse than the hall. Feces and urine overpowered the rot. The rank scent stuck to the tongue in the most unpleasant way.

Horror flashed across Eijirou's face as soon as his brain registered exactly what he was seeing.

Cages too short for a hybrid to stand in -considering hybrids were nearly the same size as a human- and barely wide or deep enough for them to lay down. The enclosures were stacked three high and ten across lining opposite walls of the rectangular room.

Eijirou’s hand went to his mouth to hide his teeth bore in anger. He had to swallow many times before approaching further. His presence in the room caused hardly a stir from those locked in the cages. Dull eyes turning to him and blinking slowly. Some of the captives were eerily still and when Eijirou got close enough he could tell it wasn't for lack of interest but for heartbreaking lack of life. Every Hybrid in the room had wounds of some sort. Open wounds, festering, and oozing sluggishly.

"S-shit." Eijirou fumbled for his coms.

"I-i need the EMTs down in the first room to the left of the hall. It looks like a 'sick' room. Likely the less valuable losing hybrids are brought in here." He lowered his voice, "some of the captives are not alive and some are very near to."

The coms crackled back immediately. "We are sending a team."

Eijirou moved to the cages. "Hey, I'm Pro Hero Red Riot." He tried to speak softly, but he wanted to explain to those coherent enough that help was coming. "We're here to help, I'm just going to break your locks alright?"

By the time the team arrived Eijirou had snapped each cage's lock so the EMTs could get to the occupants without trouble. He stepped away as they filed in, knowing they would be able to categorize the injuries and move those that needed immediate attention much more effectively than he ever could.

"I'm moving to check the rest of the rooms." He stated as he backed out of the first. He caught the eye of Iida helping bring down equipment and the room Uraraka went in was still the only open door to the right.

Eijirou could already tell it was going to be a very long day.

Some of the rooms were blessedly empty of anything but extra equipment. It did not, however,  change the amount of carnage Eijirou and his fellow heros ran into. Uraraka had encountered a training room, which Iida had to help in incapacitating the riled up Hybrids and their 'trainers'.

Eijirou had the dismal luck of finding a breeding room. Just another illegal occupation they now had to track for the unfortunate Hybrids’ saftey. The omega hybrids inside were terrified of him, while the few Alphas inside were scent drunk on heat pheromones and had to be tranqued before an all out fight occurred.

"What are our numbers?" Uraraka asked.

The three of them were taking a short break. They had been forced to bring it back up. Not just the EMTs but other pros, as a lot of the Hybrids were pretty lucid and needed to be taken up for processing and relocation.

"12 Deceased. 9 Critical. 31 Wounded. 50 Hybrids in total of which: 7 Omegas, 11 Alphas, 32 Betas were discovered. 34 of them are Adults while the remaining 16  are just pups. And that's only how many we have so far. We still need to investigate a few more rooms." Iida swiped a hand under his glasses, having removed his helmet hours prior.

Thankfully they had brought down some equipment to force ventilation so everyone could breathe easier. Heroes and the unfortunate captive Hybrids alike.

"How are the coherent ones?" Eijirou asked, his hand tightening on the plastic water bottle making it crinkled.

"Scared. Confused. Some of them think we are moving them to a different fighting ring. Others think we are here to put them down. Some of the Alphas and Betas are very hostile." Uraraka sighed as she buried her face into her hands. "I just don't understand. How could anyone do this?"

"I don't know. Hybrids are basically human, I don't really get how anyone could look at a humanoid being that learns and speaks like a person and decides just ‘cause they got animal parts they are automatically lesser than human." Eijirou commented bitterly.

Clacks of heeled shoes sounded in their direction. "Bad news kiddos." A sultry voice drawled.

Eijirou looked up the same as Uraraka and Iida did to see Midnight with her hand on hip. "The facility that agreed to take in the Hybrids is running out of slots."

Eijirou's brow scrunched together. "Meaning?"

"Meaning, they are going over capacity and if we find more Hybrids were going to be forced to find them different lodging." Midnight sighed. "Unfortunately, rehabilitation for wayward Hybrids is expensive and very rare, the people we found were the only facility we could verify."

Eijirou stood swiftly enough he knocked the stool he sat on on its side. "What'll happen to the Hybrids we can't find shelter for?"

Midnight's usual carefree expression dropped to something twisted in remorse. "They'll likely put down the more aggressive or mentally unstable Hybrids."

"That's not fair!" Eijirou shouted. A grimace overtaking his features as he wrinkled his nose in disgust. "It's not their fault they were forced into these conditions! Some of them were born here! They don't know anything else!"

"Kirishima..." Uraraka called softly.

Eijirou shook his head furiously. "No. It- that's just not right! We're here to save them! Not condemn them for actions outside their control!"

"Maybe we can find some pros to house them?" Iida suggested unexpectedly. "I agree it is an unfair situation."

Uraraka clapped her hands together excitedly.  "That's a great idea! Most pros have the license to train working Hybrids! Like me with Tsuyu! Tsuyu was a rescue too! If we can get enough pros to agree, their charges can be relocated at a later date when lodging opens up again!"

"You think we could get enough people to agree?" Eijirou asked, still unsure.

"Most of our class would be okay with it I think. And I know a few pros in my field that are looking for Hybrids to train in rescue." Uraraka added cheerfully. "We can save them all."

"I will also call around if it comes down to it." Iida added as he stood. "For now we should finish up our search. We won't know how many Hybrids will need lodging until we finish here."

"Right!" Eijirou pounded his fist together, "I'm gonna go check the last few rooms!"

The last couple rooms were distinctly different from the first. Mainly the doors themselves. Instead of heavy-duty wood, they were plated metal. Reinforced and harboring digital locks. Something told Eijirou that whatever was inside the last few doors was either dangerous or valuable.

Locking his jaw, Eijirou set out to break the first door. Holding his hand like a knife he punched through the hinges, then the lock. Once all the points the door could be held from were destroyed Eijirou removed the hunk of metal from its frame.

"Ingenium!" He called almost immediately as his eyes landed on the lockboxes within. "It's a vault! You should probably have a team deal with it."

"Right away." Iida replied, grabbing a few others' attention and heading for the vault.

One down two to go.

Eijirou opened the second door the same as the first.

Inside were more cages. Though they were noticeably better than the cages they all had encountered prior. More like prison cells complete with beds and toilets. Six in total, each holding one hybrid. There was a moment where all six pairs of eyes locked on Eijirou as he just stared  back a little stund. One hybrid hadn't even moved from her lounged position on the bed. Just eyed Eijirou with muted curiosity. Another, green tinted bunny, had slunk into a corner of his cage muttering unintelligibly to himself. 

"Who the heck're you?" A rather young hybrid asked loudly after the moment of unnerving silence passed between everyone in the room.

"I'm Red Riot. Pro Hero. We're here to relocate you. And all the other hybrids to a safe place."

The lounging hybrid scoffed. "Sure you are."

Eijirou tried not to become defensive, but his spine still went rigid. "We are. We've already moved most of the you up top to get medical assistance and evaluation."

A different hybrid spoke next, their grip on the cell bars causing their knuckles to turn white. "You grab Ground Zero yet?"

"We've contained all those running this fighting circle. Yes." Eijirou answered carefully.

"Ground Zero ain't no handler, he's a hybrid." The younger one spoke up again. "And if he's up there I don't wanna leave, you can keep me in here."

"Yeah. You can count me out too. That killer is so far up the handler's asses he's gotta be sitting pretty. I don't want to go no place if he's loose." The lounging hybrid said with an air of finality as she turned on her side.

"The door at the end of the hall." The younger hybrid answered again. He seemed willing to please and in relatively high spirits all things considered. Eijirou knew he'd be one of the easier ones to adopt out.

"I'm going to send another hero in to get you processed while I check on Ground Zero. Okay?"

"Why're asking us? Not like we have a choice." Again, the lounging female.

"I just want you to know what's going on." Eijirou answered back. "You're all being moved somewhere safer, where they are going to take care of you."

She snorted at Eijirou's answer.

"I wish you'd believe me, but there's not much I can do to change your mind. You'll just have to witness it later." Eijirou pressed the coms. "I've got six more in the second to the last room. I'm moving to the last, they say there's one more hybrid held there."

Eijirou ended up hesitating at the last door. The reaction of the six hybrids held in the secure room gave him a feeling that if he opened the door right away, the smell of 'Ground Zero' would cause an unnecessary panic to the Hybrids still down in the halls.

"Uh, Riot?" Uraraka questioned out loud as she approached. "What are you doing?"

"I don't think it's a good idea to open the door with any hybrids still down here."

"Why?"

Eijirou sighed, closing his eyes. "Those six," he gestured to the last room, "seemed really opposed to his release."

Uraraka nodded. "Ah. I see, best not to induce panic. Especially with some of the omegas and pups still down here. I'll see if we can get them up top faster. Most are done being processed and need to be moved anyway."

"The faster the better. I don't want him locked in there longer than he has to be."

"Fair." Uraraka ran off down the hall calling instructions. She nearly ran Iida over as he was headed over.

"I've received the final numbers." He said as soon as he was in range. "There are 45 hybrids in need of relocation. The facility we contacted can only take 40, though they are optimistic on being able to adopt out the pups rather quickly. The remaining 5 will need temporary homes."

"Has Uraraka asked her colleagues yet?" Eijirou asked.

"Not that I'm aware."

"Did you include the one behind the door?" Eijirou jabbed a thumb over his shoulder.

"Yes." Iida adjusted his glasses. "I'm concerned. The hybrids seem very opposed to him."

"Others have mentioned him? Not just the six I talked to?" That was concerning for certain. If all the hybrids were afraid of him he wouldn't be allowed in the rehabilitation center, and it would be difficult to get someone to house him.

"Yes. A great number of them had... Complaints to say the least. A few were so panicked they had to be sedated."

"Great... That's going to make things difficult for him."

"Indeed." Iida answered stiffly. "Do you want back up going in?"

"No need. I'll handle it." Eijirou fiddled with his sleeves. "Hopefully one person will be less intimidating. We don't know exactly how he's going to react. Do we know his sub-gender?"

"Alpha, from what I gather."

Alpha's needed someone firm or they tend to walk all over the person dealing with them. However, the situation was twisted. Being too firm might cause the Alpha to lock up and become more aggressive. It all depended on if he was broken by the handlers or not.

Eijirou took a deep breath and clicked the coms. "Have the others been moved yet?"

Uraraka's voice answered him almost immediately. "Yes. Everyone is outside the warehouse, we are starting to load them up and move them to the facility. It's all you Riot."

"I'll take my leave. Good luck, call in if you need back up."

"Will do, thanks Ingenium."

Iida nodded as he took off down the hall, double checking that each room was clear as he passed them. Eijirou watched him until he made it to the stairs.

As soon as the man was gone Eijirou turned back to the steel door. He stretched, cracking his neck to loosen up and rid himself of nerves before spearing his hands and digging into the door's joints. It was thicker than the last two, and he had to do some prying before he was able to peel away the hinges and locking mechanism. The screeching of metal was grating and Eijirou really hoped it wasn't as loud on the opposite side. Regardless, Eijirou continued to rip into the door until he was able to yank the thing out of its frame. Frustration had him tossing the lump of metal aside.

The first thing he noticed was the room, while all the others had some sort of light source, however sparse, the only light in this room was from the doorway Eijirou just opened. The rest of the space was pitch, harboring slate walls gouged deep with claw marks. The smell was marginally better than the rest of the hall had been, but it didn't change how isolated the small room felt.

The ring of dragging chains met Eijirou's ear followed closely by deep throaty growls. There was no time for Eijirou's eyes to adjust to the dark.

Before he knew it he was knocked back on his ass. A heavy hand had sparked in front of his chest, the resulting explosion blew him right back out of the room he'd hardly stepped one foot in.

"Holy shit!" Eijirou breathed, glad he had been the one to open the door. He was not sure anyone else on the team could have blocked or dodged the sudden and completely unexpected hit.

Shackled before Eijirou’s prone form was a fuming Alpha. Literal smoke rose from dangerous sparking palms. The hybrid was wolfish in nature, complete with snarling lips covered by a muzzle encasing some nasty fangs. His large ash blonde ears were pulled back almost flat against his head but definitely alert.

Chains restricted any movement. Large cuffs around the hybrids wrists, ankles and neck, the links disappearing into the darkness beyond. All modesty was robbed from the hybrid. Standing stark naked in the doorway, not that the hybrid himself seemed to care.

Eijirou swallowed as he held out his hands. "Woah man. I'm not here to fight you."

The blonde wolf's tail, which was missing chunks of fir, lashed in an angry sweep followed by another snarling growl. Alarming was also the amount of scaring littering the hybrid's pale skin. Deep gashes, some obviously healed over wrong, marred every centimeter Eijirou could see. There was one on the hybrid's shoulder, newer and agitated from the sudden movement, red bubbling from the tear.

"I just wanna help out, bud. I'm a Pro Hero. Name's Red Riot."

The hybrid's growling stuttered and his ears twitched as soon as 'hero' left Eijirou's lips. That was a good sign.

Eijirou took the pause to get back on his feet. "Wanna see my license?" He asked, trying to treat the hybrid like an intelligent being rather than a rabid animal. Eijirou knew their handlers treated them like mindless pets rather than the thinking beings they were. 

The growls gave way to heavy breathing. The Hybrid's crimson eyes narrowed and locked onto Eijirou's every slightest twitch. His ears flicked and his clawed hands flexed before he nodded shortly, one time.

"Okay, it's in my back pocket." Eijirou said, showing his empty palm.

After giving the hybrid a moment to acknowledge, Eijirou slowly reached under his tattered skirt to reach his pocket. He pulled the card free and offered it forward. "You can take it if you'd like."

There was a moment of hesitation when the hybrid's eyes flickered from Eijirou to the card and back again. Then, just as swift as his attack, he snatched the card away, pulling the small piece of plastic close to his face. He tipped the card, tilting it at a few angles and squinting at it critically before huffing and tossing the thing back in Eijirou's general direction.

Eijirou didn't know what to expect next, but it wasn't the hybrid turning. Stalking back into the room and sitting down. Apparently he had no beef with a ligit hero.

Eijirou scratched at his cheek. "Am I allowed inside this time?"

A huff.

"You obviously can understand me. Why arn't you speaking?" Eijirou asked carefully as he inched his way into the room.

The rumbling growl started back up as the hybrid whipped around. Narrowed eyes and snarling lips he gripped the muzzle then flipped Eijirou off as if to say 'why do you fucking think asshole?'.

Heat colored Eijirou's cheeks. Right. He probably should've thought of that.

"I can take it off." Eijirou suggested.

Heavy breathing again, not quite angry but Eijirou wouldn't call it panicked either. Stressed maybe. There was definitely a lot to be stressed about, locked in the room, forced to fight for your life.

It took a moment but the hybrid tilted his chin toward Eijirou and closed his eyes. Though his ears were still trained to him.

Eijirou knelt down in front of him, tracing the edges of the muzzle with his fingertips. It was only smooth with a lock in the back requiring a key.

"Hm, gonna have to break it. I'll try not to hurt you, but it's really snug. Ready?" Eijirou checked, glancing down only to be pinned in place by that sharp crimson gaze.

The hybrid grunted affirmation.

Eijirou swallowed nervously before turning his attention back to the muzzle.

He searched for the loosest bit, hardening his finger enough to snap it apart. Carefully, Eijirou pulled it away. The hybrid unhinged his jaw with a groan as Eijirou removed the offending hunk of metal. The reason for his muteness was made obvious as a bit-like piece attached had been pressing down on the hybrid's tongue. Saliva pooled and spilled over his lips as Eijirou carefully lifted the metal bit out of his mouth.

"Fuckin' ... Finally," He growled, voice rough with disuse. A clawed hand came up to massage his own jaw working the stiffness out.

Eijirou's expression softened. "Need some water?"

"I need these fuckin’ chains off'a me."  He growled in retort.

"I can do that." Eijirou said as he reached forward.

At first Eijirou was pretty worried about how the other hybrids were talking about this one. So far Eijirou wasn't seeing the same 'killer' they thought he was. Infact, the hybrid was being more cooperative then some of the other Hybrids he’d encountered earlier in the day.

Well, until he pulled away from Eijirou's hands, jumping to his feet.

"Y'seeking to exchange this prison for another?" He growled, back in the defensive position he'd been in when Eijirou first encountered him.

"Of course not! All hybrids are being taken to a rehabilitation center, they put you through therapy and eventually adopt hybrids out to vetted forever homes. It's a safe place, not a prison."

"Tch." The hybrid spat, flourishing a hand outward in a slashing motion. "What a load'o crap! Ya really think I'll be taken there!? I ain't stupid!" He hit his palm flat over his chest, "Hybrids like me get put down! I'll never see the outside o'this cell! Don't fuckin' lie t'me!"

Eijirou kept his knelt position as the hybrid raged in front of him. Not wanting to move or agitate him further. Once his rant was over Eijirou replied, trying desperately to keep a neutral tone despite the torrent of heartache he was experiencing. "You won't be put down. Promise." He stated soundly. "I won't let that happen. All the hybrids in this warehouse are going somewhere safe, you included."

There was a pause, a stillness between the pair. Eijirou keeping all the determination and sincerity he could physically muster, while the hybrid before him stared him down searching for the most minute crack to prove the hero a lier.

"Let me remove your chains? Then we can get you top side, patch up those open wounds?" Eijirou asked, offering an open hand to the hybrid.

He was shaking, tail lashing and eyes darting around before finally focusing on Eijirou's palm.

Slowly, he shuffled forward.

Eijirou smiled softly as the extra padded hand, cracked with callouses and bleeding in some spots, landed on his own. The hybrid knelt back on the ground allowing Eijirou access to his chains.

It was quick work, breaking the chains and crumbling the metal cuffs between his fingers. Even the hybrid looked impressed. Which was pretty ego boosting if Eijirou were to be honest. He couldn't help but brag just a little. "I'm pretty hard skinned," Eijirou chuckled, letting the hybrid study the lines of hardening over his hands. His full smile of sharp teeth making an appearance. "It's kinda my thing, y'know?"

The hybrid scoffed, but as soon as Eijirou was smiling his demeanor changed. Eyes wide like saucers for the first time since Eijirou encountered him. He thought he'd frightened the hybrid somehow. That was, until fingers were invading his mouth without a hint of hesitation.

"You have hybrid teeth!? How!?" The hybrid snapped as he ran his thumbs over Eijirou's gums. His face so close Eijirou could feel his breath huffing over his lips and chin.

"Duude! Nosh khool mahn!" Eijirou slurred as he grappled with the hybrid. "Leggo!"

The hybrid huffed unhappily, but thankfully relinquished his uncomfortable grip. Then had the audacity to wipe his saliva coated fingers on Eijirou's pant leg.

"I have sharp teeth ‘cause of my quirk. At least that's what the doctor says. Nothing hybrid about it, sorry."

If Eijirou had to hazard a guess he'd say the hybrid was pouting at the knowledge. "If you want to talk with a hybrid I can get you one? We have a few here with search and rescue, they'd be happy to come speak with you."

"NO!" He spat out, curling his fingers into shaking fists. But instead of brandishing them like weapons, the hybrid curled them in toward himself. "No hybrids. You're fine."

"Okay." Eijirou readily agreed, clicking the coms discreetly so his next words would be picked up. "You don't have to see or talk to any hybrids."

"We'll try, but one of the victims is refusing to leave the property." Uraraka's voice answered through the earwig.

Eijirou grimaced at her reply, hopefully stalling a little would be enough. "What's your name? The others were calling you Ground Zero, but that sounds more like a stage name."

"Ma named me Katsuki, but her an' dad were the only ones to use it." He spoke bitterly, like acid was on his tongue.

"You weren't born here?" Eijirou asked unbidden. He had kind of assumed most of the hybrids were 'bred in house' as disgusting as that thought was.

"Fuck no." Katsuki growled. "They bought me."

"How... How old were you when they took you away?" Eijirou asked, morbid curiosity.

"Five? Six? I dunno," Katsuki shrugged as if how young he was taken from his parents to live a life of fighting and hardship wasn't a big deal. "Can't remember."

Eijirou swallowed in preparation for his next question. "Do you know how long you've been here?" The information would help get a timeline for the fighting circles activity for sure. However, Eijirou just wanted to know how old the hybrid, Katsuki, was.

A hybrid's lifespan was comparable to a humans, give or take ten years depending on health and how well they were taken care of. It was a norm, for centuries since hybrids first appeared, to adopt a pup for your child seeing that they were life-long 'pets'. 

Eijirou liked the word companion better.

"Nineteen, almost twenty. Don't know what month it is an' it's pointless to keep track. Same shit different day." Katsuki hissed.

About the same age then. Not that Eijirou had anything else in common with the hybrid. Except maybe the color of their eyes.

"That's pretty shitty." Eijirou stated. "Well, things'll be better now. Uh, here." Eijirou shifted to pull the cloth wrapped around his waist. "All the other hybrids had at least a shirt, you can cover with this."

Katsuki took the red cloth with suspicion. He ran his fingers through the folds, brought it up to his face to sniff at it as if it was alive and would jump him. Eijirou opened his mouth to say something encouraging but stopped when Katsuki pulled the cloth over his head.

"Uh, actually its a..." Eijirou blinked a couple times as Katsuki adjusted the cloth, fashioning it into a makeshift toga. "...Nevermind. You ready to head up, Katsuki?"

After patting down the cloth Katsuki made a satisfied sound and nodded.

Eijirou was trying really hard not to let his second hand embarrassment show. It was difficult, however, especially as Katsuki stood. It gave Eijirou a full view of his hung cock and swinging balls. Practically in his face, he probably should've stood first but it was too late.

Scrambling, Eijirou made it to his feet. Only to discover the view wasn't more modest standing. His skirt barely cleared Katsuki's crotch from where the hybrid had it draped over his shoulder. Any movement had both ass and crotch on full display. Eijirou's eye twitched with the effort to not facepalm. He tried to tell himself that as long as Katsuki was satisfied it didn't really matter. Still, it was distracting.

Without thinking, Eijirou held out his hand once more for Katsuki to take.

Thankfully he didn't have time to reflect on his actions before Katsuki actually grabbed his hand. It forced a smile on Eijirou's lips and he nearly skipped out of the depressing slate room and down the dank hall.

It was almost creepy entering the empty warehouse. The situation was not made better when Eijirou felt Katsuki's entire being stiffen once they stepped through the stairwell door. Police and sidekicks were still documenting with pictures and conversing over notepads. All the perps were long gone, and the victims moved out to get the care they needed. Eijirou felt Katsuki's free hand dig into his belt as they walked through the empty floor toward the open bay door. Blue and red lights could be seen from the ambulances and squad cars.

"Riot! Hey, we have a set up over there to get him checked out." Uraraka called out as she pointed to the ambulance just a few yards out with its back open and an EMT waiting with a pained smile.

"Great. One sec." Eijirou guided Katsuki over to the EMT.

"Kacchan!"

Eijirou and Katsuki's attention immediately snapped to the commotion. A green tinted bunny hybrid slipped right out of Iida's hands and bounded straight for them. Katsuki was growling low before the rabbit got too close.

"I was so worried! The others said- but you were let out, I just wanted to make sure-"

"Fuck off!" Katsuki snapped, all teeth and flying spit. "No one asked ya to wait around. Go away!"

The rabbit shivered. "But--"

"Leave m'alone!"

"Woah!" Eijirou exclaimed as Katsuki made a lunge attempt at the poor rabbit. He ended up clotheslining Katsuki with a hastily thrown out arm.  An apology readily on Eijirou's lips, ignored by a growling alpha making swipes at the rabbit while trying to climb over Eijirou's arm.

"Sorry, but could you maybe take a few steps back?" Eijirou grunted, an elbow landing in his gut. Katsuki may have been under fed but the hybrid was all bone and muscle. Adding his squirming made it difficult for Eijirou to get a grip on him.

"Oh, sorry." The bunny hybrid squeaked, bouncing back a couple steps. "I just- Thank you for getting him out.",

Eijirou grappled Katsuki, snaking both arms under the hybrid's in an attempt to get him under control. "It's my job to--" He was halfway successful in getting Katsuki in a full nelson when his grip slipped. "Damn it, Katsuki calm down! He's just worried about 'cha! Knock it off!"

"-e should worry about 'is own damn self!!" Katsuki huffed. He deflated marginally allowing Eijirou to pull him back a few steps.

"Sorry, uh...?" Eijirou trailed off, unsure of how to address the bunny hybrid.

"Izuku."

"Izuku, Katsuki seems a bit riled. Maybe you could let Ingenium or Uravity help you get transferred to the center?"

Huge glossy green eyes bounced from Eijirou's face to the spitting mad alpha and back again before nodding. "Yeah, I think that would probably be best."

"As for you!" Eijirou chastised as soon as Izuku turned to walk back to Iida who hadn't fully approached but was lingering just in case he was needed. "Katsuki, you need to be patched up. You tore another wound somewhere." It was hard not to sound a little panicked as he brandished his red stained hands to the hybrid.

"M'fine!"

"No, you aren't. Nobody locked up in that hell hole is fine. Go to the freakin EMTs!"

So maybe losing his patience wasn't the best course of action. And Eijirou definitely felt bad when Katsuki's lower lip jutted out and his nose wrinkled. However, the hybrid did turn and walk the last couple steps to the back of the ambulance. Eijirou scrubbed a hand down his face, dragging it down and around to dig his fingers into his stiff neck. He was two steps into following Katsuki when he was stopped by Uraraka.

"Hey, Riot. We need to talk."

At glance Katsuki was doing alright. Sure he was bearing his teeth, and he didn't look at all comfortable with the EMTs poking at him. But he was letting them check him out, even if his piercing crimson gaze kept flicking over to Eijirou as if he was checking his whereabouts.

"What's up?"

Uraraka sighed heavily, like the world was just dumped on her shoulders. Something alarmingly out of character. "Well, Iida and I were able to convince the center to hold all the hybrids we grabbed today until we can get some pros to take in the overflow."

Eijirou's face scrunched up. What she said seemed like a good thing-- "I'm sensing a 'but'."

Another sigh, "Kirishima, they absolutely refuse to take in Ground Zero. Too many of the others have been in hysterics about him, and..."

And? How was there more? "And what Uraraka?"

The young woman hesitated, shifting awkwardly. "Five of the dead you found were killed by him. And this..." She pulled out her work phone, opening a file and handing it over.

The first picture was of a male, his face completely unrecognizable due to how much skin was peeled back to reveal bone and muscle. Eijirou swiped, getting the next picture was no less gruesome. The man's left arm had been torn out of its socket, lying centimeters away.

"Fuck." Eijirou swallowed as he swiped again to find a close up on the man's jugular. Fanged teeth having ripped out a chunk of his throat.

"He did that to his handler about an hour before we arrived." Uraraka stated. "The rehab center refuses to take him because he killed a human. The law, he'd normally be put down immediately. There are loopholes we can jump because of the fighting ring, but no pro is going to take him."

"I'll take him." Eijirou replied readily. "I got my license a while back. I wanted to get a working hybrid, one that could help with my hero work. I'll adopt him. I won't let him get killed for this. It wasn't his fault."

Uraraka pulled her bottom lip between her teeth as a sympathetic look crossed over her face. "Red, he's not evaluated, you don't know what you're stepping into."

"You won't change my mind."

She let out a small snort. "I know that much. Just warning you."

Uraraka took her phone back, pocketed it, then removed the clipboard from under her arm. "Here." She said, pulling a small stack of papers from the clip. "Fill those out, submit them to your agency and the Hybrid Services so they know you have him. They may request an inspection."

Eijirou took the papers. "You knew I was going to take him in."

Uraraka smiled. "We spent three years of school together and seven years of working together. It'd be pretty sad if I didn't know you by now Red. Just stay safe okay? Go home. Iida and I can wrap things up here."

"Thanks Uraraka. I really appreciate it."

"I know, now go before he burns a hole through the back of your head. He's been staring at us this tire time."

Eijirou turned enough to look back over his shoulder.

Sure enough; Katsuki was glaring right at him. His arm now in a sling, gauze and medical tape wrapped around his shoulder. He also had bandages stuck on his face. The EMT even gave him -an ironic- Red Riot themed hoodie which didn't have sleeves but looked pretty cozy regardless.

Eijirou waved a short goodbye at Uraraka before quickly making his way over.

Katsuki perked up slightly at his approach, tail thumping lazily beside him.

"Looks like you got fixed up." Eijirou said as soon as he was close.

Katsuki 'hur-umphed' in a grumpy fashion. "It wasn't that fucking bad."

"Says the hybrid with a sprained elbow who needed ten stitches on his shoulder. Multiple lacerations, and burns on both palms." The EMT cut in sharply. "He needs to not use his right arm for a bit."

"He's also lacking in a bunch of vitamins, underfed and will need a strict diet. Where should I send the perceptions and diet pamphlet?"

"Oh, uh. Me, I'll take them." Eijirou said. "Digital or physical?"

"I can send you the perceptions and you can take the pamphlet."

Eijirou nodded, handed over his contact information and took a small booklet from the EMT.

"Alright. It's been a long day, let's go home."

"Who the fuck're you talkin to?" Katsuki growled as he jumped off the back of the ambulance. Eijirou could see the scruff of Katsuki's hair stand on end in a riled state as the hybrid glared up at him. His position was guarded, shoulders hiked up and knees bent. Even with the ridiculously oversized RR hoodie reaching halfway down his thighs, and showing every rib on his sides from the open cut sleeves, Katsuki still managed to look almost intimidating.

Almost.

Eijirou was still fighting down the coo stuck bubbling in his throat.

"You and me." Eijirou was finally able to speak. "I'm taking you home with me."

Katsuki's eyes narrowed even further, studying Eijirou from head to toe before focusing back on his face. "Why the fuck would ya do that?"

Eijirou grimaced. "Honestly bud? No one else'll take you"

Ridges on Katsuki's nose jumped with a put upon snarl. "Not surprisin' why're you, idiot?"

"Hey, I passed my tests with average grades, don't assume!" Eijirou laughed, studying was definitely not one of his strongest points but he was no idiot! Dim maybe but not an imbecile.

"Just let me take you home, yeah? Promise you'll be happy, I'm pretty fun if I do say so myself!" Eijirou boasted with another offered hand.

Katsuki’s face scrunched up real tight before he sighed with a minuscule nod. He turned back to the ambulance to grab Eijirou's skirt. The cloth immediately wrapped around the hybrid's neck like a scarf and this time Eijirou couldn't hold in his laughter.

"The fuck're ya laughin' at, ha!?"

"Nothing, nothing. Just, that's supposed to be a skirt and you've yet to wear it properly." Eijirou beamed, all teeth down at the hybrid who did in fact grab hold of his hand once again.

"Leave me be, bastard." Katsuki grumbled, burying the lower half of his face in the folds of the dark red cloth. Yet, he still kept his hand in Eijirou's, the black claws making indents in the back of Eijirou's hand. Almost like he was afraid Eijirou would shake him off. It made his heart ache.

Eijirou's brow dipped in a frown and tugged Katsuki closer. It was a little awkward, the top of the hybrid's head only reached Eijirou's shoulder, but he still tucked him under his arm. Neither of them smelled all that great, what with both of them having fought earlier. However; Katsuki didn't complain. Rather, he seemed to melt into the small comfort and that was enough for Eijirou.

Chapter Text

Eijirou ended up having to call a taxi. He wanted to get home sooner rather than later. Get Katsuki out of the public eye, not force him to deal with a bunch of people especially while the hybrid was half dressed. Get the poor guy somewhere he could start feeling safe. Eijirou knew it would take awhile, but hybrids often scent marked their homes to claim themselves. He read that a claimed home made a hybrid feel more in control; safer. There were quite a few things Eijirou was missing in his home for Katsuki to feel totally comfortable, but it was late. He'd have to go get the items the next day.

First thing to do was to call in to work though.

Eijirou hated doing it, but he needed to be sure Katsuki was okay being home alone before he abandoned him. Not just for Katsuki's mental health but also because Eijiro didn't want his home torn apart by a stressed out alpha hybrid.

He ended up getting a full week off forced on him by his agency because Eijirou had accumulated so many hours yet refused to take vacation. Not that he'd really had a reason to take time off before. All his closest friends lived within an hour's trip and he loved his job!

"Alright! Here we are!" Eijirou exclaimed as soon as he paid the cabbie and the pair stepped out onto the street.

The building was a bit old, but the apartment size was quite modest. It was in a quieter part of the prefecture. Eijirou even paid fair rent for the 2ldk and his neighbors were always sweet. They did not mind when he was a little loud while he worked out in his home gym. Possibly because the other tenants felt safer having a hero living so close. Or maybe the lack of complaint was because Eijirou had always been hard not to like. Whatever the case, he loved his home and the neighborhood where kids played in the park around the corner and the market always gave him free Yakitori! Eijirou hoped Katsuki would settle in nicely as well. Hoped he could help the hybrid heal physically and mentally.

"Just let me unlock the door and we can get ourselves cleaned up!" Eijirou got the key in the lock and within moments they were standing in the genkan. Eijirou was quick to remove his boots and step into the hall. Katsuki, however, had been barefoot. His feet, like the rest of him, were caked in dirt, dried blood and tacky sweat. Eijirou's mother would've had a conniption fit at the mere sight. While Eijirou wasn't as strict about clean floors, he still rather not have to scrub away the mess Katsuki was bound to track in.

"Alright sorry buddy, but I'm going to be carrying you to the bath." Eijirou warned before lifting Katsuki right out of the genkan. He was nearly off-balanced by how unexpectedly light the hybrid was. He was close to twenty kilos less than Eijirou had expected and he had to remind himself that Katsuki wasn't fed right. Unfortunately the thought didn't assuage how alarming the difference was.

"What the fuck! Put m'down! 'M notta pup!!" Katsuki growled and squirmed in Eijirou's arms, placing both hands on Eijirou's shoulders in an attempt to shove himself away.

"I know, I know. But Katsuki, you're filthy, I'm not letting you walk on the floor until you're squeaky clean." Eijirou chuckled. It took him just a few steps before he made it through the washroom door. He set Katsuki down on the tiles. "See? Painless."

Katsuki huffed and growled, crossing his arms over his chest.

"C'mon now, no pouting. Go ahead and get started so I can start on our food, yeah?" Eijirou turned to leave only to have Katsuki grab the strap across Eijirou's back and chest effectively halting the man in his tracks.

Katsuki grumbled.

Eijirou grinned sheepishly and buried his hand in the slightly matted blonde hair on the hybrid's head. "Sorry bud, I can't understand you, ya gotta speak up."

Katsuki swatted his hand away and spat venom. "I DUNNO HOW TO RUN THE FUCKIN' BATH!"

"Oh." Eijirou blanked, "Damn, you're right. Sorry, I should've--" He could feel the heat on his own cheeks. It wasn't that much of a leap in logic to realize the hybrid probably never touched a bath. Of course he wouldn't know what to do for preparation. Eijirou felt like a major asshole for just assuming. It took Eijirou himself forever to figure out the modern setup when the ancient building upgraded their tenants' amenities. "We can do it together. I have the tub on a timer, so it should already be filled and warm for us! I'll just show you the shower. Go ahead and undress, I'll grab you some clean clothes."

Katsuki grunted before starting to unwrap the cloth from around his neck. Eijirou nodded at his process and left the changing room. Down the hall, through the living and dining space, Eijirou slid the door to his bedroom open. He was quick to pull some lounge wear out, just something simple that he hoped would fit well enough.

"Okay." Eijirou announced as he reentered the bathroom. "I brought you a shirt and spare trunks. I bought the wrong size so they're new. I figured you might not want human pants with your tail an' all."

Katsuki looked up from where he was squatting in the corner of the small room. His tail was wrapped around his calves and his arms locked around his knees. He'd even folded his hoodie and the cloth meticulously in front of him.

"Oh, those can go in the wash." Eijirou reached down for them after placing the clean stuff in the prep basket sitting on the rack by the bathroom door.

Katsuki was much faster, snatching the cloth skirt, claws millimeters away from catching on Eijirou's hand. "Mine!"

Eijirou froze, hand hovering over the hoodie and carmine eyes wide from the unexpected movement. "Uh?" He blinked. "Sure, I guess you can have it. But it should still go in the wash."

"No!" Katsuki spat clutching the cloth to his chest.

"Woah, okay." Eijirou placed his hands up in a placating gesture. "No washing. Can I take the hoodie?"

Katsuki narrowed his eyes at the hoodie and cocked his head ever so slightly to the side. "Hmmm, yeah." He said slow as if he wasn't quite sure about it yet.

"In the wash it goes." Eijirou replied. He picked up the hoodie and dropped it into the wash, then started to strip himself down. He unhooked the paldron gears, setting them on the rack before stripping his pants and underwear in one go dropping both in the wash. It was a little unnerving having Katsuki's intense gaze locked on his every move. Eijirou had never been super shy about his body, but then again he'd never had someone stare blatantly as he undressed either. He had to physically stop himself from covering his unmentionables with his hands.

"You can put the cloth with your change of clothes, I promise I won't touch it."

Katsuki narrowed his eyes as if he didn't  trust Eijirou's words but still he grunted affirmation and stood, placing the folded item over the other clothes in the basket as directed.

Eijirou slid the door open to the bath and waved Katsuki to follow. "Sorry it's a bit small, the building is kinda old."

Katsuki grunted, clearing the door enough for Eijirou to shut it again. Eijirou then did a brief rundown on how the control panel worked before he activated the shower. Katsuki startled at the sound of the water and  jumped away from the showerhead with a sharp yip that degraded into a low angry growl.

"What!?" Eijirou exclaimed. Katsuki's loud noise and quick movement scared Eijirou  almost as much. "What happened!?"

"Bad water!" Katsuki hissed through clenched teeth.

Confused Eijirou took a look at the shower head. "It's not bad? It's just water?"

"Yer not hosing me down with fuckin' frigid ass water!" Katsuki shouted so loud the sound echoed off the walls.

"Ah," Eijirou stuck his arm under the spray. "I wouldn't do that. It's nice and warm, see?" He pulled back and offered his now warm arm for Katsuki to feel. "That's what the temperature adjustment does. Why don't you sit on the stool? You can use the showerhead yourself. I won't touch the water at all, promise."

Katsuki's face screwed up as he placed his palm on Eijirou's warm forearm. It took a moment but he eventually inched toward the stream as if every centimeter caused physical pain. Katsuki hovered close to the shower testing the mist before he actually stuck his own hand under the spray. A full body shiver went down his spine and he shook it out before settling down on the stool.

"The soaps are in front of you on the shelf. Just don't use this one." Eijirou pointed at the shampoo bottle sitting at the end. "Unless you want pink fur." He chuckled humorously.

"M'kay." Katsuki mumbled, pushing the offending dye-retouch shampoo bottle down the shelf until it almost teetered off the edge.

For the most part Eijirou didn't need to help him. Only stepping in when Katsuki needed  his back scrubbed down. Eijirou didn't want him to irritate the more nasty looking wounds there and took his time being as gentle as possible.

"Alright, you can soak now." Eijirou said. "My turn with the shower."

Katsuki stood, moved to the tub, and clambered inside with a little splash rocking over the edge.

"Feel nice?" Eijirou asked with mirth dancing in his tone as he observed how low Katsuki sank into the water. Just enough for him to breathe through his nose, he was sopping, big ears droopy and waterlogged. Eijirou was glad for the high quality water-proof plasters the EMTs had stuck over all the wounds that shouldn't be soaked.

"S'nice." Katsuki's voice bubbled over the water surface, his eyes fluttering closed in content.

"Just don't fall asleep." Eijirou warned, committing himself to wash as quickly as possible so he could join in the tub to prevent any accidents. He was in the middle of scrubbing the grime and failing hair gel out of his crimson locks when he felt the loofah make its way down his back. A soft smile played on his lips. 

Katsuki must have snuck the body wash away when Eijirou's eyes were shut. "Thanks bud!" He chirped, a happy hum making a nonsensical melody bubbling in his throat.

Katsuki only huffed back, but the loofah didn't stop its firm circular motion.

Once Eijirou rinsed off all the suds it was back into the tub. This time with both of them. The tub was on the cramped side of comfortable because Eijirou was a pretty large man. Katsuki was also bigger than any hybrid Eijirou had ever seen. The wolf was the size of an average Japanese male if not bigger.

It was an oddity considering hybrids were usually smaller or 'cuter' . Humans liked them small because they felt like they had more control. Eijirou wasn't sure how Katsuki got so big, but a lot of the Hybrids in the fighting ring bust were above the average size of any hybrid. They were probably pumped full of steroids or other drugs. Eijirou would need to get Katsuki scheduled for a full check up soon. Just to make sure he wasn't going to go through any withdrawals or adverse effects. Eijirou just wanted him to be healthy.

Lost in thought, Eijirou nearly startled when Katsuki leaned into him.

The hybrid's back pressed into Eijirou's chest as he sunk down in the water again. Clawed feet braced against the farther wall of the tub so he didn't slide all the way under the water's surface. 

Eijirou snorted a small chuckle. "Comfy?"

Katsuki only blew bubbles in the water in lieu of a reply.

Eijirou knew he was bearing the softest look he could muster on his face, and he learned enough from their prior interactions that he was glad Katsuki was facing the other direction. The last thing he wanted was for Katsuki to think he was being looked at like a 'pup' again. It also took all Eijirou's willpower not to snuggle the hybrid in his lap. While he knew giving Katsuki positive touch and affection was important he didn't want to push boundaries too fast and ultimately push Katsuki away.

Eijirou relaxed back instead, letting the ambient quiet lull in the background. It would've been nice to play some music but Eijirou could deal with the serene silence interrupted only by Katsuki's bubble blowing and the gentle splashes from minor position adjustments. Only when Katsuki snorted some water did Eijirou realize they'd probably been in for a little too long.

Katsuki sat ramrod straight after his surprised water intake, coughing a little.

"You okay?"

"'M'fine!" Katsuki hacked out as he forced his lungs to clear any inhaled liquid. "Fell asleep."

"I heard. I think we should probably get out now."

"Yeah..." Katsuki mumbled as he slowly peeled himself out of the bath water.

Eijirou grabbed the edge of the tub and was lifting himself up when Katsuki took the lull to do what dogs do best.

Shake.

It started from the tilt of Katsuki's jaw and traveled down to the tip of his scraggly tail. Water sprayed droplets everywhere as he shook quite a few fast paced times before settling once again. Eijirou wanted to be shocked, he really did. But all he was able to do was lean his forehead on the tub's edge and swallow down a bunch of gasping chortles.

"Oi! The fuck y'laughin at!?" Katsuki barked.

Eijirou smothered his mouth with one hand while shaking the other over his head in denial. "Sorry, it's just that I have towels prepared, y'know?"

The angled head was back as Katsuki tipped his chin so far to the side Eijirouwas surprised his neck didn't crack. "Towel?"

Katsuki's tone caused Eijirou to intake sharply. Did he not know what a towel was!? "It's uh, kinda like a--" Eijirou was flopping his hands around in an uncertain gesture when Katsuki started to go red in the face.

"I know what a fuckin' towel is!!" The unspoken: 'I just haven't used one since I was a pup' hung heavy in the steamy air.

Eijirou gulped and pointed to the wall.  "Oh, well it's on the rack there."

Katsuki grabbed one of the extra large red towels hanging and quickly wrapped himself up like a burrito.

Despite Eijirou desperately wanting to laugh once again, he was effectively sobered by reality. Realizing once again just how many simple comforts were cruelly robbed from Katsuki and all the other innocent hybrids rotting in that fighting ring.

It made Eijirou so angry. He couldn't imagine wanting to hurting a living creature just for the hell of it. At least those Eijirou hurt gave him a damn good reason. Hybrids, like all animals and humans, were born completely innocent. To take something pure like that and twist it into something so unrecognizable made Eijirou sick.

Eijirou patted himself dry before grabbing a smaller towel for Katsuki's head and tail. "So you don't catch a cold." He said in a way of explanation as he gently patted and rubbed away at Katsuki's still damp hair.

"--Can fuckin' do it..." He grumbled but let Eijirou finish what he had started.

"You can help me then?" Eijirou spoke after failing to get the wolf's poofy blonde hair to lay flat. It was a poor excuse for compromise. However Katsuki took him up on the offer without complaint. Toweling dry Eijirou's hair, albeit roughly, when Eijirou had sat himself down on the stool so the hybrid could reach his hair. Usually Eijirou toweled off in his room but he had to admit it was nice to stay in the warm steamy bathroom a while longer.

"Done." Katsuki informed in a low tone, pulling back away and heading immediately for the door.

Eijirou followed him out. They both changed into their fresh clothes Eijirou had laid out. Katsuki again wrapped himself in the cloth skirt, this time as a makeshift shawl draped over the oversized tee-shirt. As for Eijirou; he chose to forgo a shirt altogether. He kept his home warm enough and he always felt a little sticky if he wore one right after a hot bath. Thankfully his guest didn't seem to mind, Katsuki only having spared a brief glance his way as if comparing their outfits.

"Hungry?" Eijirou asked as he led Katsuki down the short hall and into the main room of his cozy apartment.

Katsuki grunted in a distracted manner, most of his attention trained on the contents of the room. He eyed his way from the balcony doors, to the couch and entertainment center, then to the dining table and finally the kitchen.

"I'll whip something up real quick, can't guarantee the quality though." Eijirou chuckled at his own expense, "Go ahead and sit wherever."

Eijirou decided against making anything too heavy for Katsuki to eat so he chose a more breakfast style meal. Rice, miso soup, grilled fish and a green salad. It wasn't really enough to fill Eijirou up but he knew without needing to read the pamphlet he was given that it wouldn't be good for Katsuki to fill his stomach. The process was relatively quick for Eijirou to heat everything up and grill the fish. He was happy just being able to feed Katsuki something. Eijirou couldn't help the large grin spreading across his lips as he arranged all modestly portioned foods on a platter. However when Eijirou turned to deliver, the table was empty. The couch was also empty. It took him stepping fully out of the kitchen to find Katsuki had sat his ass down on the cold wood floor about a meter away from the table.

Eijirou pursed his lips. "At least sit on a cushion man." It slipped out, he knew he really shouldn't be surprised but it still caught him off guard.

"We can sit at the kotatsu to eat if you really want the floor." Eijirou knew his smile was a pained one. Maybe he should've been more clear but he didn't want to coldly order the hybrid around. So Eijirou set the food platter on his kotatsu. "This is yours, if you're hungry you can eat."

It was a relief when Eijirou returned with his own food that Katsuki was actually huddled under one side of the kotatsu. It looked like he was waiting for Eijirou to seat himself before starting to eat even though Eijirou knew he must have been starving. Of course Eijirou ended up eating first even though he prompted Katsuki with 'Itadakimasu' and hovered over his own food for a few breaths. Unfortunately, he was pretty hungry himself so he wasn't able to hold out too long waiting for the hybrid to start. Eijirou gave in by shoveling rice in his mouth and sipping on his miso. He glanced over the rim of his bowl to study Katsuki who looked to be struggling with the chopsticks. Damn, Eijirou should've grabbed spoons instead. Small oversight.

Katsuki picked up fast though eyes locked on to how Eijirou was using the utensil. Soon he too was shoveling the rice into his mouth, picking apart large chunks of fish and mowing down his salad. He even left his miso for last to fill in the gaps. Eijirou really hoped he hadn't overfed the hybrid. Seeing that his stomach likely shrank due to lack of food. It was a little worrying when Katsuki shrank under the blanketed edge of the kotatsu until all Eijirou could see was fluffy blonde hair. It was kind of amazing how Katsuki was able to curl up small enough to fit the space despite his above average size.

Eijirou lifted his side of the kotatsu to check on Katsuki and earned himself a vicious growl for letting the cold air in. Oops. That was okay, as long as he was comfy. Eijirou could leave him be and go do the dishes instead.

Chapter Text

Katsuki hadn't noticed he had drifted off until a clamor startled him back into consciousness. A soft 'shit, sorry' sounded shortly after and Katsuki couldn't stop a soft rumbling growl that rolled out his throat in answer. It wasn't right to be falling asleep in a new place. It was dangerous! However Katsuki had still passed out a grand total of two times already since being taken away from the cell. It was unacceptable in a strange new place with strange new rules and a strange red man who's human name Katsuki didn't know. Maybe his name had been on the hero license, but Katsuki could only read basic hiragana. All he knew was the man was a big lumbering human who was one part clumsy, two parts dumb, and all parts unnecessarily kind.

Everything was weird.

Katsuki wasn't sure he liked it yet.

But it was becoming harder not to fall into comfort. Comfort from the warmth, comfort from clean clothes and the addictive smelling red cloth. Comfort even from the red man with the soft baritone voice and soothing aura. Katsuki wasn't afraid of him. Just cautious of what the red man could do. Not that Katsuki couldn't defend himself. He was good at that at least. The problem was mostly where he would go if he pissed the red man off or hurt him. Pro Heros were supposed to save everyone though, so hopefully. Hopefully Katsuki could be safe for a little while longer, as long as he didn't fuck that up like everything else in his life.

"Hey bud, I know you're comfy and all but you can't sleep under the kotatsu." The red man's voice spoke again, a little too close for comfort. Katsuki felt like he was slipping, becoming too comfortable too fast in the new place. He hadn't even heard the red hero approach him. Not to mention that the red man was trying to move him from his spot! Fucking ass. Of course Katsuki should've known he wasn't allowed to sleep in the warm comfy place. He never was. Katsuki had figured anywhere was better than the concrete but the kotatsu was so very nice,  too nice. 

Maybe the man would decide to put him out on the balcony.

Katsuki snarled.

Fuck him! Katsuki could sleep in the warm spot! It was his now!

Except Katsuki knew in the back of his mind that attitude like that wasn't going to fly. Humans always got their damn way. Every. Fucking. Time.

"I know, I know. But the heater can't run all night. I wish I had a futon to give ya but a friend of mine scorched my last spare. Made a hole right through the middle." The man chuckled, "He now owes me three futons."

Katsuki grumbled back. He didn't care about the man's friend or what said friend did. He just wants to stay put! In his warm spot!

"Hello? You alseep?" Damn the fucker was annoying! Especially when he lifted the cover again! Katsuki just wanted to be left alone in his warm spot!

"I know it's warm but sleeping is for beds. You'll mess up your shoulder more. C'mon, I know it sucks we gotta share but my bed's pretty big." He continued to talk as he reached under the kotatsu and touched Katsuki's arm.

Katsuki barked out a rough growl and swiped at the red man. At the last second remembering to curl his fingers in so he didn't actually claw the man. He really hated being manhandled! It always led to chains, muzzles and whips! Though he had to admit it would be really stupid for the red man to have removed the chains and muzzle just to randomly put them on again later. It was a wasted effort and humans were lazy. They never wanted to put in the work, it was why Katsuki ran out of water so often.

"None of that." The man chastised. 

Katsuki would've bristled but he was too tired and the red man didn't have any true malice in his tone or scent. So Katsuki flopped over and crawled out from under the kotatsu. He didn't make it far before the dumbass grabbed him from around his waist he was hoisted up like a pup! Again! The fucking bastard! Katsuki growled. "I can walk m'self!"

"Shh~" The idiot hushed stroking one hand over Katsuki's clothed back as if THAT would calm him! Stupid!

"I'll fuckin' bite'tcha!" Katsuki snapped through bared fangs.

"Okay, okay."

Katsuki was swiftly put back on his feet. He immediately started huffing and grumbling about it but refusing to back away like a scared pup.

"Sorry, I won't do it again without permission."

Katsuki huffed loudly through his noes. "Better not!"

"Promise, but you'll move to bed right? I don't have to drag ya there?"

Katsuki contemplated ignoring him and diving back under the kotatsu, but he really loathed the possibility of being dragged out again. It didn't help that he also wanted the soft touches back. The man's hand on his back or in his own hand, being able to lean into him. Katsuki was abashed to admit he'd do anything not to lose those nice touches. He could hardly remember the last time he had them. It had to have been his parents, obviously. His mother was always smothering him in her lap. His father had always given him gentle head pats. Katsuki had always slept in the safety they made by walling him in on both sides. He used to think it was annoying when he was old enough to have an opinion, but he missed it desperately the first night he had been taken away.

It was those memories that had Katsuki latching back onto the red man's hand. Let the giant lead the way over to a different door. Let him guide him over to the HUGE bed. And allowed him to pull back the covers and usher Katsuki under. Only then did Katsuki realize he wasn't going to be on the floor. He was led into the bed! Even in his first home he slept on the floor, a futon like the man said he used to have before its untimely destruction. A futon was comfy, but he always wondered what a raised bed felt like!

For one, the mattress this man owned had a plush layer on top of a distinct firm base. Katsuki sank into it a little, the surface contouring to his body. The red man took the opportunity of Katsuki's bewildered state to tuck Katsuki in like a pup. Katsuki was too focused on the comfort he was cradled in to voice any complaints. When the covers were successfully tucked around him, Katsuki marveled at how pleasantly heavy it was, like the duvet was giving him a big hug!

"I hope you don't mind the duvet being weighted. I have trouble getting to sleep and it is the only thing that helps." The man explained as he started to climb in on the opposite side.

"S'fine." Katsuki slurred with a slow blink. He could already feel the pull of sleep trying to take him under. It was more than a little scary not having the willpower to keep himself up like he normally did. It did not help that he was more comfortable in the bed than he had in the bath. The smell of body wash mixed with the musky undertone of the sheets just made Katsuki bury his nose into the duvet more. Even when the opposite side of the bed dipped, Katsuki couldn't bring himself to even twitch. The man shifted a bit, taking a full few minutes to even get himself situated.

"Sorry if I move toward the middle while I sleep. That's just where I rest usually."

Katsuki turning his head on the fluffy pillow to glance over. The man had left as much room as physically possible between them. Weird. Katsuki thought normal humans loved smothering their pets. At least that's what he'd heard. Deku was always yammering about his previous home and how they cuddled him constantly. All he knew was his first humans never did that shit.

But what if this human expected cuddles?

If Katsuki didn't comply would he be gotten rid of again? Would he be put down?

Fuck it! Cuddles were not that big a deal. They kinda did it before while they were in the bath and it was... Nice-ish .

Katsuki shifted under the duvet. It was difficult moving under the weight but he made it to the man's side. Then, before he could change his mind, Katsuki slotted himself against the man's back. The man went a little stiff under Katsuki's arm but was quick to relax, giving Katsuki's brain no time to regret his action. Instead, Katsuki nuzzled into the man's hair, getting a nice wiff of soft shampoo and earthy oils from the man's scalp. Almost like aromatherapy.

Katsuki's muscles unknotted and he curled into the man until they were pressed as close as physically possible. It was a little awkward at first, trying to conform to a man larger than himself but when Katsuki was done he was satisfied with his roll of big spoon. It was only moments afterward that Katsuki heard the man release a deep exhale which almost immediately evened out to slow breaths.

Not being the first asleep was more of a relief than Katsuki was expecting, but he didn't keep his consciousness much longer. He let his eyes fall closed surrounded by weight, warmth and soothing scent Katsuki drifted off.

Light streaming through the curtain gap is what woke Eijirou in the early morning. It was unexpected only because he could not remember falling asleep the night prior. Last thing he recalled was Katsuki cuddling up to him then; nothing. 

Speaking of Katsuki, Eijirou still felt the hybrid's even breath against his neck. He'd never felt so rested before, never had he  awoke in the exact same position. Not even when he'd been utterly exhausted from working hard, he always tossed and turned in his spotty sleep sessions. Eijirou almost didn't want to move. The weight of his duvet and the warmth at his back that Katsuki granted was trying to lull him back into peaceful slumber. Unfortunately there was a fuck ton of shit Eijirou had to get done that day. Starting with breakfast then some much needed shopping for his new roommate! Followed by some less exciting legal stuff.

That was how Eijirou was eventually able to motivate himself into rolling out of bed. Ever so carefully because he didn't want to wake the hybrid, Eijirou freed himself from his comfort. Looking back at the bed yielded a Katsuki whose face scrunched up at the sudden lack of warmth. A blonde ear flicked twice in a more cat-like fashion than a wolf before Katsuki eventually settled again. The duvet shifted lazily accompanied by a few thumps. It took Eijirou a moment to realize the hybrid was trying to wag his tail under the weighted blanket. The action was less than successful but still cute.

Eijirou backed off and quietly left before he caved in and tried to slip back into the bedding and nap more. He really, really needed to start breakfast. Again Eijirou picked something easy to make because he wasn't all that masterful in the kitchen and Katsuki shouldn't be eating anything heavy. He ended up with some steamed rice, an egg to crack over the top, toast, and sausage. It had only taken twenty minutes for him to complete the task. Katsuki hadn't left the bedroom so Eijirou went back in to check on him.

Sleeping soundly, Katsuki had curled himself  around the pillow Eijirou had been using the night before. His face relaxed, void of the creased brow, pursed lips, and wrinkled nose that Eijirou was getting used to seeing. It was the most peaceful Eijirou had witnessed him yet. He couldn't bring himself to wake the slumbering hybrid. It felt like an absolute crime to disturb what was likely the best rest Katsuki's had in over a decade. Besides, they didn't get to bed until almost midnight the night before and it was only approaching seven. Katsuki definitely deserved a full nine hours! With his mind made up, Eijirou forced himself to leave the bedroom and wait. He could eat his own breakfast in the meantime, put the rest away to be heated when Katsuki woke on his own.

Yup. That was a good plan. Even though Eijirou still wanted to climb back into bed himself. But no, Eijirou couldn't do that! He still needed to make all his reports and fill out forms, get all the documents together and... His head was already throbbing from the impending headache. Sure Eijirou didn't completely suck at paperwork but there were certainly areas he was much more adept at.

Damn, his morning was going to be long and shitty. It really was. Because when the clock ticked over to eleven Eijirou was still slumped over the kotatsu, muted news playing on his TV as he scratched his head in complete confusion. Why? Why did all the information read confusingly in official documentation? It was filled with contradictions and seemed to explain itself in circles.

Eijirou was solely focused on the papers that he never heard the bedroom door open. Nor the feet padding down the hall. Not even the soft thump of an ass landing beside him at the kotatsu. It wasn't until Katsuki spoke that Eijirou was pulled from his spiraling.

"The fuck s'that?"

Eijirou went bug-eyed as he looked up to Katsuki's sudden appearance. The hybrid sat on the cushion this time. Having tucked his legs under the blanketed edge, he was still holding the pillow in his lap. His hair was even more wild than what Eijirou had found out was normal spiked mess. Katsuki's shoulders were hunched as he glared at the papers spread over the kotatsu's surface.

"Oh! Hey, you're up. Are you hungry? It'll just take a moment to heat up your breakfast." Eijirou floundered, flapping his arms around and moving to stand.

Katsuki rolled his neck until his head rested on his own shoulder. Crimson gaze blinking slowly up at Eijirou with furrowed brow and twisted lips. "Breakfast?"

Eijirou paused as a bit of dred sat heavy in his stomach. "Yeah man, Breakfast." He forced a smile. "Rice, egg, toast and sausage!! Kinda gave it a western spin but still good! You've gotta be hungry, right?"

It took a minute but Katsuki slowly nodded, his head dropped lower with the motion until he was staring at the pillow in his lap. Eijirou's nose burned with the effort of holding in his tears. He knew, or should have known, that Katsuki was not given three meals a day! Eijirou could count every rib on the hybrid, he might have been lucky to get one meal a day. Katsuki sure as hell would be getting properly fed now that Eijirou had him in his care!

Eijirou had to physically restrain himself from adding more than one scoop of rice, one sausage, one slice of bread and one egg to Katsuki's platter. Knowing it would not be a good thing if the hybrid tried to eat too much. But damn was he compelled to pile the food on.

When Eijirou finally made it back to the kotatsu, Katsuki looked to be staring holes into the papers arrayed on the surface. Why the hybrid was glaring at the papers, Eijirou had an inkling. The papers were mostly his report about what went down the day before. Mixed in were the adoption papers to make Katsuki legally his. In hindsight Eijirou probably should not have left all that out for the poor hybrid to read over. With haste Eijirou swept it all aside to place the platter in front of Katsuki instead.

"Here ya go bud."

Katsuki hummed, dragged the platter closer with one hand and picked up a paper with the other.

"Fuck's this?" He asked thrusting the page in Eijirou's face.

Eijirou blinked a few times to adjust before taking the sheet and moving it far enough away from his face so he could actually read its contents. The top of the page read Hybrid Adoption. Of course Katsuki would grab that one.

"Kinda thought it was obvious..." Eijirou said while rubbing the back of his neck.

Katsuki snarled back, "Is it?"

"Well, yeah. I mean if you're going to stay, it'd be sad to move you later so I thought adoption papers would be best, y'know?"

"Adoption papers..." Katsuki repeated in a soft almost breathless tone.

Eijirou's whole face frowned. "Yeah, that's what is says at the-- Oh shit! You, you can't actually read can you!?"

Katsuki bristled, his hair fluffing at the back of his neck, growl in his throat.

"I know hiragana an'most of katakana!" He hissed as an angry flush raised on his cheeks and flooded his collar. "Just haven't learnt fucking Kanji yet!"

Eijirou's cheeks also went ruddy and he thumbed the edges of the page. "Sorry, I just assumed... Ah!" Realization dawned on Eijirou as he thought back to when he handed the hybrid his hero license. A hero license that was not child friendly to read and had complicated Kanji on it! His name! Katsuki did not know Eijirou's name!

"I'm such an idiot! Katsuki, I'm sorry!" Eijirou exclaimed suddenly slamming his forehead down on the kotatsu in a failed attempt to bow. "Eijirou, Kirishima Eijirou! I hope you feel safe enough to stay here with me and let me adopt you into my family!"

Silence was thick between them. Eijirou's heart threatening to burst from his chest. Then it was broke by the ugliest laugh Eijirou ever witnessed. Katsuki threw his head back and cackled, open mouthed guffaws in loud volleys from the back of the Hybrid's raw throat.

Eijirou could only stare in slack jaw awe as somehow the ugliest thing he ever witnessed morphed into something so beautiful. Because Katsuki was laughing! Actually laughing complete with tears in the corners of his mirthful eyes. It felt like a millennia sitting there, one Eijirou wished would not end, but eventually Katsuki calmed himself. Then spoke in a soft voice, rough only from prolonged disuse yet still swimming in amusement.

"Kirishima Katsuki don't sound half bad I guess."

Eijirou's lower lip trembled as tears sprung to his eyes. "It sounds MANLY!" He exclaimed barely catching himself before lunging to cuddle the Hybrid. Instead Eijirou asked with open arms. "C-can I?"

The corners of Katsuki's lips remained curled in a smirk as he nodded slowly and snorted out a short, "Whatever Eijirou."

With permission granted Eijirou basically fell over himself to land in Katsuki's lap. His arms clinging around a scarily thin waist and face buried in the pillow still sitting over the hybrid's legs. He kinda felt like crying for real when one of Katsuki's hands landed on his head. Fingers sifting through the ungelled red locks. It was a tender action Eijirou coveted becauseof how little he was on the reseving end of such comfort. His paperwork headache melted away and Eijirou was left with the soft petting in his hair and soft chewing of Katsuki eating.

Eijirou was starting to realize what hybrid enthusiasts saw in their hybrid companions. He was skeptical at first, but laying there cuddling into Katsuki's belly Eijirou could not deny the comfort he was getting out of it. He just hoped Katsuki was not venturing out of his comfort zone to let Eijirou cling on him.

Eijirou hummed lazily as he turned so he could look up at Katsuki's face. "We need to go shopping today. You need clothes, toiletries, and some hybrid stuff too. You gonna be okay tagging along?"

Katsuki's eyes narrowed. "I'm no coward!"

"Course not bud. You're really brave!" Eijirou answered without pause. "That's why I know you're strong enough to let me know when its time for us to go home!" He kept his smile neutral but couldn't stop one of his hands from rubbing circles on Katsuki's back. "You can do that for me, right?"

Katsuki did hesitate, a glower on his face as he mulled over Eijirou's words. "Yeah, I can." He finally answered firmly even though he looked a little more than defeated.

"Good! Is there anywhere you want to go Katsuki? We have to go to the Hybrid Center to turn in the documents and I was thinking about running to a shopping mall that has a lot of hybrid friendly stores but after that..."

Katsuki's tail thumped on the ground. "Outside?"

"Yeah! The mall is an outdoor one! And I don't actually have a car so we gotta walk!"

"Kay." Katsuki answered then faced toward the balcony. His lips pressed together and dropped in a frowny pout.

A growl build in his chest making it rumble. "We see Deku?"

Eijirou blanked. "Deku? I'm sorry I don't know what you mean by that."

"Tch." Katsuki clicked followed by a rush of air snorted out of his nose, as if he was annoyed by his own words. "The dumb bunny."

"Oh, Izuku? The one you tried to maul dude? Honestly I don't think seeing him is all that great an idea, considering." Eijirou answered carefully as he moved to sit up. 

Katsuki's shoulders hunched and his lip jutted out. "I was fucking stressed, Deku likes to butt in where he don't belong. But if I don't go see him he'll find me first and that ain't happening!"

Eijirou mulled it over for a few moments before sighing in defeat. "If you promise to behave I can see what I can do."

Katsuki crossed his arms and gave Eijirou a gruff 'fine' but Eijirou could tell he was satisfied since his tail was once again thumping on the ground.

"I'll call a friend to see if she knows where he is. In the meantime, let's find you something decent to wear."

With that the pair of them moved back to the bedroom to they could rifle through Eijirou's closet and drawers. They eventually found something Katsuki was willing to wear and wasn't going to drown him in fabric. A pair of gray joggers Katsuki wore low enough on his hips they didn't need to cut a hole for his tail. Eijirou tried to point out that the pants were gonna end up around his ankles. But Katsuki told him to mind his own business, and for extra measure; tugged the waist down even lower. Eijirou swore the only thing keeping the pants in place was the hybrid's impressively massive dick. Which Eijirou totally did not check out back when Katsuki was flaunting it unabashedly at the sting, or again last night while in the bath! It was just extraordinarily hard to miss. The other clothing items they chose consisted of a rare black shirt Eijirou had long grown out of and his cloth skirt, which surprise, Katsuki actually attached to his waist this time so no one would see his ass falling out of the joggers.

For his own part Eijirou threw together his 'disguise' tailored by his good friend Kaminari Denki. "People expect you to go out in a tank, shorts and spiked hair like a good himbo. You gotta look ' not you' when goin' incognito man." Were Denki's words of wisdom while putting together the asamble.

So Eijirou dressed up. Hair down and out of his face with a low pony tail and slouchy beanie to keep his head warm. Thick rimmed glasses just for show and to obscure the telling scar over his eye, the lenses were even tinted in a blue fade to hide the carmine of his eyes. Eijirou threw on a checkered flannel folded to a ¾ sleeve over a simple white v-neck tee. To complete the look he squeezed himself into dark wash skinny jeans that honestly made his thick ass look perfect, even if it squished his front package almost uncomfortably. It was an outfit he would never choose to wear himself but he had a few different variations lined up in the corner of his closet for when he needed to go somewhere and didn't want to be stopped by Red Riot enthusiasts.

The wardrobe change really did work wonders, but he usually got stopped for another reason. Women wanted to get his contact info, or hang out just cause they were free and he was 'hot'. It was liberating to be able to tell them bluntly that he was a gay rainbow in physical form and therefore not interested. Though there was that one time it backfired big time because the woman asking him out was with her gay brother and did a complete one-eighty. Instead of pleading her own case she tried desperately to set Eijirou and her brother up which was just awkward and embarrassing for both parties involved.

Especially since he was unable to tell her he wanted a man who could toss him around. Her brother might have been pretty tall but he was also rail thin with no muscular structure at all. Eijirou could snap the poor guy between his thick thighs. It got him thinking that maybe he was still single because he was too picky? He knew in his head that there weren't many men both stronger than him and wanting to toss around a brick shithouse in the bedroom. Not to say Eijirou had not dated anyone before. He had. He wasn't a virgin either. However, though his confidence was much better than it was back in school, Eijirou still struggled with self worth and being a people pleaser just so people would like him. Therefore, when he dated and everytime sexual activities came into play his partners expected to get dicked down by him.

Eijirou never said no either, which led to him having a less than satisfactory sex life. After going through the motions one to many times he gave up on finding the one that would treat him like he wanted to be treated. Blaming most of it on his quirk and the rest of it on his huge build. A quirk that made him look intimidating and domineering, and a body built to take blows; which also translated to the bedroom apparently. Except it didn't, not for Eijirou. It led to Eijirou's partners being disappointed with his poor performance and resulted in him being dumped.

Rinse and repeat.

Until two years ago when Eijirou decided he was tired of getting his heart ripped out and quit the dating scene. Unexpectedly the decision was excellent for his career. Within the first year his hero rank skyrocketed from the low hundreds to a single number eight! It almost gave Eijirou a heart attack when he got the news. It was strange especially since he was still working under Fat Gum.

Eijirou's reminiscing was cut short when Katsuki and him got to the front door and he realized Katsuki needed shoes.

"I think Hanta left a pair of loafers here last visit. He's pretty tall but his feet are smaller than mine so they might fit you better."

Eijirou grabbed them from their borrowed place in his shoe rack and placed them in the genkan neatly in front of Katsuki. He slipped his own trainers on as Katsuki worked his feet into the loafers, tapping his toes on the floor to test their fit. Thankfully his feet were the same size as Hanta's making the shoes fit snug but not too tight by the looks of it. Eijirou grabbed a coat for Katsuki off the hanger, handed it over to the hybrid before checking his satchel for all his stuff. Keys, wallet, phone, folder with forms, tissues, handkerchief and compact reusable shopping bags.

He was set.

"Alright, let's go!" Eijirou cheered as he unmatched the front door and stepped out with Katsuki in tow.

Chapter Text

Being allowed outside was strange to say the least. Katsuki did not fully enjoy it the first time it had happened when he had been taken from the awful cell. He was too exhausted, having fought just hours earlier and only napping the bare minimum for months on end prior to. The second time was much different, Katsuki was wide awake and blessedly well rested. He had obtained the best sleep ever in his lifetime and was more alert than he ever was even in the ring. His tummy was full and he had plenty of water. He was CLEAN . Which was a luxury he hadn't had in a very, very long time.

Being outside again was also different because of the amount of people. It was late the night before. They didn't encounter many people in passing. During the day it was contrasting. There were so many people. Humans and Hybrids walking the streets. It set Katsuki's nerves alight and he would be a lier if he said he didn't press himself back to Red, Eijirou's , side. He grabbed the strap of Eijirou's satchel so there was no way the man could get lost unless he parted with his bag. Blessedly, Eijirou never commented on the action. Katsuki might have tried to blow another hole in his chest if he did, this time knowing the man would be fine unlike the day before when he really was trying to kill him for entering his space.

Even Katsuki's handlers knew they had to bring blast shields when entering his territory. It was a lesson that took an embarrassing number of exploded body parts to learn. Katsuki had never met someone who could stand up to his explosions point blank and walk away unscathed. Most died with little more than gore in their wake, the lucky ones only lost a limb. It was kinda badass that Eijirou's only inconvenience was the smoke he had inhaled and scorch marks on an uninjured chest.

"So we'll get the boring part out of the way first, cool?" Eijirou spoke up as they walked toward the train station. "That would be getting rid of this paperwork. I can call Uraraka to see about Izuku when we get to my agency."

Katsuki huffed instead of answering, mostly because it wasn't something he could really answer. Eijirou was the one taking him places. Katsuki didn't really have a choice but to follow along, despite how Eijirou seemed to think he did. It was either follow Eijirou's suggestions or what? Get left behind? Annoy the first human willing to listen to him and give him what he needs? Fuck that. Was it irritating that Katsuki had to do as he was told? Yeah, but Eijirou wasn't an asshole about it. In fact it was really hard not to be relaxed around the guy. He smelled really good and he had a pleasing aura. Bad humans smelled greasy and had disturbing or oppressing auras. Ones that slithered around you and stuck to your skin like a gooey slime. The fighting ring was caked in the shit.

Eijirou didn't feel that way. He felt fresh. Smelled it too. It reminded Katsuki of a better time, of his fondest memory. The one time his first owner took him and his parents hiking in the mountains. Eijirou felt like the fresh mountain air. Like the freedom of standing on the peak and looking down at the tiny world below. Smelled like the trodden mulch, the sappy bark, the evergreens and the mineral laced springs of water. Maybe that's why Katsuki trusted the man so readily. Maybe it was why Katsuki buried his face into the high collar of the jacket he'd been given to wear. Because Eijirou's scent was caked there, a soothing mask to cover the wall of unfamiliar and nauseating new smells of the city.

"Here you go Katsuki. I'll have to get you an IC card later, for now a ticket." Eijirou said as he handed over a small piece of paper. "All you gotta do is stick the ticket in, walk through the gate and take the ticket from the opposite side."

"I'll go first." Eijirou said. The process was quick. He passed his card over what must have been an inlaid sensor, the gate opened and he walked through before it closed again. 

Katsuki followed suit. Sticking the ticket where he was shown to. The gate opened and he quickly went through. He loathed to admit he didn't take another breath until his ticket was back and his hand was returned to its hold on Eijirou's satchel. Too many people. Too many eyes looking. It reminded him of the ring, even though he knew the people around were not actually paying him any mind. They were just bodies going about their own business, weaving through the masses in an attempt to get to their destination.

Katsuki pressed closer to Eijirou's side. Thankful that once more the man didn't say anything about it. No comment on his dismal clinging, no questions as to why. No degrading looks of pity. No, Eijirou was all sharp toothed smiles, with a bounce to his step not changing his pace to baby Katsuki. It felt normal. It had been a very long time since anything had a semblance of normal in Katsuki's life.

"Now we just wait behind the line until the train arrives." Eijirou informed Katsuki cheerfully.

Wait they did, not for too long until a train pulled into the station. A voice over the intercom speaking directions and people left the train and they entered. Eijirou moved them toward the windows. Seeing that the train wasn't packed but there were still no seats to sit in. So many people. Young, old. Human, hybrid. Families, couples. Katsuki couldn't stop his eyes from wandering. There was just so much to take in. The smells, the sounds, the colors. He could bury his nose into the coat, which he did, to get rid of the nauseating scents coming from too many people. But the others… An obnoxious buzz was lingering in the air. A cadence of too many sounds fighting for superiority.

The rattling of the train.

The murmuring of hushed voices.

The tap of fingers on hand rails or phone screens.

A whine of a pitiful hybrid child.

The coo of a love sick couple.

The the hum of indistinguishable music from someone's headphones.

Katsuki shut his eyes tight to the rush of light, sound and color. His hands flexed in an attempt to stave off the impending sparks of his quirk. He was in public. He couldn't get aggressive. They'd take him away. He couldn't be taken away. Not from Eijirou. Never from him. Please.

"Look! Katsuki, the ocean!" Eijirou's voice bubbled close to Katsuki's ear in a hushed but excited tone. The man had wrapped an arm around him, holding Katsuki flesh against his side. His carmine eyes seemed to sparkle like the blue sea out the window despite their contrasting color. The expanse of empty golden sand drew Katsuki's eye. Foam filled waves crashing the shore. While he'd never heard it in person, Katsuki could imagine what it sounded like. The ghost of it flooded his ears, drowning out the chaos from within the train. His body lost its tension. His corded muscles unknotted as he melted  into Eijirou's side. His hands stopped their rhythmic flex as he focused on the glistening water through the glass.

"When it gets a little warmer we can visit. Playing on the beach is great and the vendors during the summer sell delicious treats!"

Katsuki's lips curled into a sad excuse for a smile. "Yeah, okay."

Eijirou beamed. Katsuki could feel it in the way the man squeezed him closer. Katsuki let him. It was actually comforting not that he'd ever voice it. Besides, it didn't seem like a purposeful action. Just a natural one. As if Eijirou had moved without thought. Instinct. Katsuki was always following his own instinct. Eijirou must've acquired good instincts.

Eventually the train moved away from the ocean. City buildings blocking the view. And while they were nowhere near as beautiful or exciting as the sea, Katsuki still found them a good focus point. Studying them to keep his mind out of the train cab.

"Our stop is next." Eijirou informed Katsuki as the speakers were announcing  'Esuha Station'. 

Soon enough they were making their way out of the train, onto the platform and out of the station.

"FatGum's isn't too far from here." Eijirou spoke again once they were free.

It was easier to breathe in the open air. Walking down the street despite the fact that there were much more people on the streets then there had been in the train. It was much easier to ignore the masses when everyone was rushing around to get to their destinations. Eijirou grabbed Katsuki's hand when he turned down a street. Katsuki realized why when he saw the stylized building front for FatGum's Hero Agency just a few buildings away. Eijirou walked right through the doors without missing a step, tugging Katsuki in behind him.

Eijirou started to walk them to the front desk when the hair on Katsuki's neck stood up.

"Kirishima!" Boomed a deep voice from their right.

Charging toward them was a large silver man and Katsuki went on the defense immediately. His hackles raised as he ripped himself from Eijirou's firm grip. A low growl erupted from his throat vibrating in the lobby as he placed himself in a ready stance. A wall between the threat and his Eijirou. Katsuki's palms were already sparking as he lunged to meet the man halfway. Seeing the offensive answer had the man's eyes blowing wide as he tried to halt his advance, arms crossing in front of himself and turning a solid looking metal.

A feral grin made its way on Katsuki's lips. Metal could melt easily under the heat of Katsuki's nitroglycerin palms. This threat was so screwed. The first explosion that went off to propel Katsuki forward sent the receptionist diving under his desk with a cut off yelp of complete fear and distress. Katsuki had his other hand sparking in front of him, except he didn't go far like he expected to because he was SCRUFFED !

"Fuck! Katsuki!" Eijirou shouted, pulling him back to his side and shoving him under one arm to get both Katsuki's arms pinned down. There was a bit of a struggle and Eijirou didn't even glance toward the tin man when he yelled in his direction. "Tetsu! Get outta here!"

The tin man gawked and took one more step forward. Katsuki spat and growled trying to free himself. To get between the tin asshole and his target before anything could happen. But Eijirou's grip on him was too strong.

"But Kiri--"

"I said LEAVE! Please, Tetsu get the fuck out."

"Okay, fine. Call me later though." The metal man said while throwing his hands up and backing off. He didn't turn until he was out the front door.

"Watanabe please don't hit the emergency alarm." Eijirou said toward the desk where the receptionist had his hand hovering over a red button. "Everything's under control. Sorry for the noise everyone. Please go back to your business. We just got a little overzealous." Eijirou continued to address the room, bowing bashfully as much as he could with Katsuki still trying his best to squirm free.

"Is the conference room free?" Eijirou asked, dragging Katsuki with him toward a hall.

"Y-yes." The receptionist answered, Katsuki could hear the heartbeat thundering in the kid's chest but couldn't feel bad about it. He was still too riled up.

Eijirou nodded, "Thank you."

They were down the hall in an instant and Eijirou ushered them into an empty room with a large table and lots of chairs positioned in the middle.

"Hey bud, I'm alright." Eijirou said softly as soon as he had the door shut behind them.

Stilling, Katsuki's ears flicked around. Alert to anything that might come out of the woodwork to attack them again.

"Thanks for protecting me." Eijirou continued softly, his voice calm and low.

Katsuki couldn't help but puff his chest at the praise given. Though he still glared at the shut door. Just in case.

Eijirou dipped his face into Katsuki’s field of vision. "Tetsu is a friend though. He wasn't going to hurt me, or you. He was just excited to see me."

The ridges of Katsuki's nose bunched and jumped with a low snarl. "He fuckin' charged ya!"

Eijirou sighed. "Yeah, he did. He shouldn't've with you right there. That was his bad, but that's just how we greet each other, y'kno?"

"No." Katsuki scoffed blunt and short. "He CHALLENGED me! I would'a fuckin won!"

"I'm sure." Eijirou agreed readily. He even reached forward and Katsuki let him scratch just under his left ear. His head fell into Eijirou's hand, rolling with the movement.

"You're very strong Katsuki." Eijirou said with a very soft, almost adoring, look overtaking his features. "You have to remember that when reacting to everything around you. You can hurt people if you aren't careful. Tetsu is dumb but he doesn't deserve to get hurt for it."

Katsuki snorted. "Idiots don' deserve to be saved."

"Ouch." Eijirou gasped mockingly. "I'm pretty dumb too. You saying I can't be saved?"

"You're not!" Katsuki barked out, hair raising at the self-dig Eijirou made. His blood felt hotter as he scowled.

Eijirou pulled away to scratch at his own cheeks instead of Katsuki's, as if scratching would make the pink leave his face. "Thanks, but there's quite a few people who'd argue with evidence."

Katsuki rumbled low and angry. "I'll kill'em!"

Eijirou started laughing in earnest. "Defending my honor? Manly, I like it Katsuki. Just don't actually go around killing people, 'kay?"

"Tch, whatever..." Katsuki said, but his growls stopped short and he felt restless, like he had the fucking jitters or something.

"You're a good boy Katsuki." Eijirou hummed around another soft smile. He opened his arms, "C'mere."

Katsuki's ears perked and he nearly startled when his tail smacked against one of the chairs. He didn't look though, too busy moving himself into Eijirou's arms. He buried his face right between Eijirou's pecs as soon as their fronts made contact. It was a little hard to breathe, especially when Eijirou hugged him, but Katsuki was content being surrounded by the mountain scent. His arms went around Eijirou's middle and he latched on tight.

Eijirou's fingers dug into Katsuki's back as he rubbed along his spine. Katsuki had a fleeting thought that he'd be purring if he was a feline hybrid. Of course he wasn't so instead his stupid tail betrayed him as it hit back into the dumb chair. Whatever. Eijirou was the only one as witness so it was alright. He even allowed himself to sink as close as possible and closed his eyes while nuzzling. The bliss didn't last near long enough because some asshat extra decided to knock on the door.

"Kirishima-kun?"

"Ah!" Eijirou exclaimed, pulling back from the embrace. "That's FatGum, my boss. Can he enter?"

Katsuki huffed, pouting as he shrugged. He didn't want anyone in the room. But a boss was a boss. Unfortunately. It didn't mean Katsuki had to like or trust him though. Katsuki had never had the pleasure of riding himself of a boss, just his handlers. Still, if the ashole even looked at Eijirou funny he was going to lose his face. Maybe an arm. Or a leg, preferably his life.

Eijirou, likely clueless to Katsuki's murderous thoughts, just smiled brightly as he called his boss in. "You can enter, we're good."

Good was pushing it in Katsuki's opinion.

The biggest, round yellow man Katsuki had ever seen was who entered, already speaking as he hovered in the doorway.  "Hey, heard there was a issue in the lobby. Y'all okay?"

"Oh, yeah! Tetsu just startled us is all. Katsuki doesn't like people rushing us and Tetsu wasn't paying attention. It's better now though, right Katsuki?"

At his name, Katsuki was jolted out of staring blatantly at the larger hero. His nostrils flaring as he nodded to Eijirou.

Damn, the guy smelled like overly sweet takoyaki. It made Katsuki curious if his weight was due to his quirk or an unhealthy obsession with the treat.

"We're sorry for causing a scene. I wasn't thinking when I brought him in without explaining anything."

FatGum laughed boisterously. "Yes, well there isn't much we can do about TetsuTetsu's enthusiasm, nor your own. I've tried." The man paused, taking a good look at Katsuki then back to Eijirou. "I thought I told you to take the week off to adjust."

Eijirou chuckled. "Yeah, but I still got papers to submit and I don't have a fax machine."

Katsuki watched FatGum like a hawk while Eijirou turned attention to his satchel. He dug for a moment before producing the folder.

"I did email my report. This stuff has to be physical or something?" Eijirou explained as he pulled a packet out to hand over. "Hopefully it's done right."

"I'm sure it's fine." FatGum assured Eijirou as he relieved him of the packet. "Now run along. I don' want to see ya again until your vacation's up."

"Yeah, yeah. I know!" Eijirou said with a chuckle underlined in his tone. "Just let me make a phone call and we'll be outta here. We still need to go shopping."

FatGum left them to it with a nod. Only once the door was shut did Katsuki let loose the tension holding him.

Eijirou must have noticed the change in posture because he was quick to place a hand on Katsuki's back and stroke gently along his spine. "We good?"

Katsuki huffed, he still didn't believe good was the right word but... "Better," He muttered in answer. He might have also sunk back into Eijirou's side, but neither of them said anything. It was hard not to eavesdrop on the following phone call, even if Katsuki wasn't standing so close. He had a habit of it. Since humans were rarely ever truthful with him. He trained himself to listen to phone conversations just so he'd know what the fuck was actually going on.

So Katsuki heard crystal clear as the dial cut off and a vaguely familiar cheerful voice answered, 'Hey Kirishima-kun! What's up?'  

"Uraraka, hey! I was just wondering if you knew where that Rabbit Hybrid, Izuku, was placed? Katsuki wants to visit."

'𝘖𝘩, 𝘶𝘮𝘮. 𝘒𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘢 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘧--' The woman on the other end hesitated.

Eijirou made a face. "C'mon Uraraka, he just wants to let'em know he's doing okay."

Katsuki felt Eijirou's hand press harder into the base of his spine.

'𝘚𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘺. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘩𝘦'𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩.'

"He promises not to freak out. He had his reasons before, Uraraka. You trust me right?"

The woman sighed on the other end making the speaker crackle.

'𝘠𝘰𝘶? 𝘋𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺. 𝘏𝘪𝘮? 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘒𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘢, 𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘯'𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘦𝘵.'

Katsuki could see how Eijirou's eyes narrowed and the little slip of his quirk cracking down his temple. He also could smell the irritation. The irritation part confused Katsuki. Why would Eijirou be irritated at his friend? Although he hated to admit it, the woman was correct. Katsuki had proved just recently that he's still volatile. Yeah he promised Eijirou he'd be cool, but what reason did the man actually have to trust his word?

It wasn't like Eijirou could smell the honesty on him like Katsuki could on anyone else. He also didn't seem stupid enough to blindly trust someone. Maybe it was faith in the good of others? Katsuki thought it naive, but he wasn't conceited enough to ignore his own misanthropic outlook. It was... Admirable, Katsuki supposed. It just made it harder to find something to dislike about Eijirou. In fact, Eijirou's ire on Katsuki's behalf was kinda thrilling. No one had ever been angry for Katsuki before. Not even Deku, who he loathed to admit was the only person close enough to really 'care'. The thought ground his nerves, he never wanted the dumb rabbit to care about him.

"With all due respect, Uraraka. You haven't seen him after a good night's sleep and a full belly. He's a lot calmer even though he's still cautious, which all things concerned, 

should be expected. He just wants to let his--uh." Eijirou's eyes flickered down to Katsuki who was definitely going to snap if Eijirou called dumb Deku 'friend'. Just thinking about it made him shudder. "His brother, I guess? – Let him know he's okay and not to freak out with worry like he did yesterday."

Brother. Katsuki's nose wrinkled. An annoying as fuck baby brother, Katsuki decided was an accurate enough description. He was an only child as far as he knew, but if he had to think of a snotty, pushy, overly obsessed sibling the green bunny was whose face popped immediately in mind. Not to mention saying; 'I want to check on my dumb nosey brother' didn't sound overly concerned or sappy as shit. It was just something an older sibling did naturally. Check on their younger siblings' wellbeing, beat the snot out of their tormentors, bully the crap outta them. Normal shit.

"Is he with you?" Eijirou trudged on in an attempt to get the info.

Katsuki thought it a little comical how determined Eijirou was to fulfill Katsuki's request. It wasn't like he had to try so hard. Katsuki hated it, but if he couldn't get to Deku, the bun would find a way to find him instead.

'No, I wanted him to be but you know the law. I already have Tsuyu so I'd have to get special licenses to adopt another. He's being fostered by Iida for now. I'm in the process of filling the specified license though.'

"Thanks Uraraka. I'll talk to you later, and good luck! You are great for Tsuyu and Izuku would be great with you too."

Just as Eijirou pulled the phone away there was a gasp on the other end. The woman must have realized what she'd done, or otherwise been touched by Eijirou's words of support. But Eijirou already hung up on her and was dialing another number. "Found him bud. Just gotta see when Iida's free."

Thankfully the next phone call was shorter. Eijirou asked 'Iida' if he was free for a visit. The man didn't protest like the woman did, in fact he seemed rather excited to get a visit even though Eijirou had been working with him just the night before. They did have to wait until the next day though. Which was fine. Katsuki was already waning, wanting to make it back to Eijirou home sooner rather than later. Unfortunately, they still had tasks to complete and it didn't matter how much Eijirou assuaged. Katsuki wasn't a pansy and wasn't going to give up so soon. Katsuki wasn't going to stop their journey just because people made him mad, or because he was already tired. He worked while exhausted before, this was nothing!

"Alright, next stop the Hybrid Welfare Office. It's only a few blocks away so we'll walk." Eijirou urged.

Eijirou didn't ask that time as he reached for Katsuki's hand. He had half a mind to slap it away but he didn't. His body even betrayed him as he pressed as close as he could to Eijirou's side. Yeah, it hampered their steps. Katsuki could care less though. Except Eijirou apparently had a better idea. Because he shook his hand out of Katsuki's and before Katsuki could protest, his hand slid around to grip just below Katsuki's ribs. The entire line of their sides pressed close. Eijirou did a shuffle step to change his own gait in order for their steps to matched up.

Katsuki narrowed his eyes at their feet while he figured out where his own hand should go. He ended up gripping Eijirou's belt from the back since he couldn't reach all the way around the other man's hip. That's how they made their way back out of Fat's agency. Gaining a myraid of confused stares, but fuck'em! It wasn't their business if Katsuki felt better the closer Eijirou was plastered to him. 

It was irritating enough for Katsuki's grip on the man's belt to tighten as he practically dragged Eijirou out of the agency. Fucking extras needed to mind their own and stop gawking like dumbasses. Eijirou for his part only started to laugh. Giggling like a hyena as he waved to everyone while Katsuki pulled him out the doors.

"Holy crap, you're stronger than you look." Eijirou huffed between breathless chuckles. Katsuki felt the resistance, but it wasn't like Eijirou was trying to stop their pace. Just slow them.

"Woah, wait. Katsuki, we need that street!" Eijirou called as he tried and ultimately failed to tug them off the crosswalk Katsuki had dragged them to. Katsuki growled low but veered their course so they could maneuver down the correct street.

"Maybe I should lead bud?" Eijirou chuckled, pressing his cheek against Katsuki's hair. "Not that I wouldn't love to follow you around but we kinda got a destination in mind."

"Yeah..." Katsuki huffed back, relaxing into Eijirou's stride. He didn't like not being in control. Used to being forced into shit he never wanted to do. With Eijirou it felt different though. Probably because the man wasn't forcing Katsuki to do anything. Eijirou even asked Katsuki's opinion. Katsuki could believe if he really rejected Eijirou's plans the man really would follow Katsuki wherever he decided to drag them off to. A first for everything, Katsuki guessed.

"So, there's most likely to be a bunch of Humans and Hybrids at the office. Some of them might be skittish while others could be like Tetsu." Eijirou started to explain. "It was completely my fault before, but now I'm warning you. Hopefully no one will charge us in there but if they do--"

"No one'll touch you!" Katsuki barked with an underlying snarl.

Eijirou sighed, "Hey now, I don't know why it's bothering you so much but remember: you tried to blow me up yesterday, I'm not completely helpless Katsuki."

"So?" Katsuki snapped through his growls.

Eijirou choked on his inhale because he started to laugh at the same time.

"Wasn't like I knew you before ya tore through the fuckin' blast door." Katsuki huffed, pulling away from Eijirou's side a fraction. "An' just cause yer sturdy don't mean I can't keep fuckers from touching ya."

Eijirou tried to pull Katsuki back to his side but Katsuki was too solid. Irritation bubbling under his skin, hands hot. Even with what Eijirou said, he didn't want to set the man's clothes on fire which was why he pulled away.

"Katsuki, m'sorry." Eijirou deplored softly, trying again to guide Katsuki back.

"S'not you." Katsuki hissed in a way of explanation. "Fuck."

"I didn't mean to upset you." Eijirou said softly as he held out his palms, "It your hands? Here, you can take mine."

Katsuki was about to protest when he saw the ridged lines mapping Eijirou's hands. Never had Katsuki been able to touch when his hands were heated and sparking. But Eijirou's quirk was perfect to combat the reaction. Tentatively, Katsuki placed his hands over Eijirou's own who in turn closed his fingers around Katsuki's knuckles.

It gave Katsuki something else to focus on. The rough, almost callosed feel. The unexpected size of them. Smaller than he expected for a man larger than himself. Katsuki knew his hands were pretty big, but hadn't realized they were a whole knuckle longer than Eijirou's. Though he already  knew his hands were disproportionately large for his body, putting them in perspective against another pair was a new surprise. 

"Hmm, small hands." Katsuki hummed, a smirk curling on his lips.

Eijirou gasped, "What!? No they aren't! My hands are bigger than all my friends! You just have paws, and not just cause the pads on your palms but because they're excessively massive dude!"

Katsuki chuckled, the sound humming through his nose. "Yours're still smaller."

Eijirou's lips stuck out in a pout but he didn't comment further on the topic. "Feeling better now? We're real close and I'd like to get this over with. I'm not too fond of the hybrid welfare office."

The unease in Eijirou was contagious. Only putting Katsuki more on edge, likely the opposite of what the man wanted but there was no helping it.

"M'fine." Katsuki grunted instead. 'Pets' were supposed to comfort their owners. Hybrids were just upgrades from regular species, being able to talk'n all.

"If you're sure." Eijirou answered. Tugging Katsuki back to his side. Though his hold was different that time. His hand shook a bit where it was on Katsuki's hip. Katsuki placed his own hand on Eijirou's back. Rubbing slowly up and down in the simbance of comfort, emulating what Eijirou had done for him before.

Entering the office was odd, to say the least. Multiple pairs of eyes locked on them as they moved passed the threshold. Both from humans and hybrids sitting in the waiting chairs. Katsuki couldn't help but tighten down his hold on Eijirou.

Eijirou guided them both directly to the counter as Katsuki surveyed the occupants. Mostly to make sure no one made a move, but also in curiosity. Like Eijirou said, there were many different hybrids. A few sticking out more than others.

Like the elderly woman sitting with an equally old cat hybrid, one hand soothingly petting the cat's head while the other shook over papers clipped to a clipboard.

Or the woman juggling a human toddler on one knee, and a pup on the other while looking absolutely haggard from God only knew what.

The last that stood out had Katsuki's hair standing on end. An adult woman who must have been in her early thirties was with a young hybrid. A canine of some kind who couldn't have been older than twelve. She had one hand around the pup's shoulders while the other patted his knee.

Katsuki didn't know why it set him on edge so much, and he wouldn't find out until much later when Eijirou was more comfortable telling him about such things. Things like how, while perfectly legal, it was uncommon for humans to own hybrids not in their age range. It was seen as cruel to adopt a hybrid much younger than yourself, because humans and hybrids aged at the same rate and an adult human adopting a pup would pass on first. The result would be a displaced hybrid who had no one to care for them. They would be harder to adopt and likely put down shortly afterwards.

Then there was the other aspect to adopting a young hybrid. That it was a way for pedophiles to 'legally' indulge in their sick fantasies. Because hybrid's didn't have the same rights as humans did. It was a way for people to get around certain 'restrictions' they believed were a nuisance.

And most humans turned a cheek to it. Pretending it didn't exist because it meant human children were safe.

And while it confused Katsuki in the moment, Eijirou's reaction made sense upon reflection. The fact that he caught Katsuki's stare at the odd couple. The way the man's heartbeat increased, a disgusted curl appeared on his lips as his face turned red, but not in embarrassment like Katsuki was used to in rage. Even the way his scent soured as he spoke in the sharpest tone Katsuki had yet to hear from him.

"Katsuki!" Eijirou snapped, drawing his attention effectively away from the woman and pup. "Pay attention please."

He even moved Katsuki to his other side, blocking the view just in time for Katsuki to miss the way the woman leaned over the pup to whisper sultry in his ear.

"Good afternoon Sir, how may I help you today?" The woman behind the counter distracted Katsuki with her mock cheer.

"Afternoon." Eijirou answered, a slight grit to his tone as his jaw failed to unhinge properly. "I have some papers to file for a new adoption."

"I see, do you have the papers filled out or do you need a copy?"

"Filled 'em out already."

"Perfect! Do you know if the hybrid is registered?" She asked as she started typing away.

Eijirou stuttered, "Uh, actually I've no clue. Is there a way to check?"

"Certainly!" The receptionist cheered with fake vigor once again. It made Katsuki's head spin. "We just need to scan for a microchip. If he has one, then he's registered and all his information will be there with his ID. If not, I'll have to have you fill out a few different forms."

"How do we do that exactly?" Eijirou asked.

"I'll just sign you in here and as soon as the next representative is free they'll help you out. Can I get your name please?"

"Ah, it's Kirishima Eijirou."

The woman's brow twitched as she looked critically at Eijirou. Her eyes doing a full body sweep over him before pursing her lips. "Can I see an ID Mr. Kirishima?"

Eijirou nodded, hand dipping into his bag to retrieve his wallet. "Discretion is appreciated ma'am." Eijirou mentioned as he handed over his identification.

Her eyes went wider than saucers as she scanned the id. "Oh, um. Yes of course Sir!" A blush rose to her cheeks as she shyly handed the identification back. "Thank you for your service. We hope to get all your queries answered promptly!"

Eijirou made a decidedly uncomfortable noise. "Uh, yeah. Thanks."

The receptionist shifted in her chair as she thumbed her pen. Her eyelashes fluttered as she put on what Katsuki assumed was supposed to be a pleading and/or sultry look.

Eijirou smiled back at her convincingly even though Katsukicould still smell the sourness on him. "Would you like an autograph?"

Stars lit the woman's eyes. "Oh, yes! Please!" She cried in the softest tone trying her hardest not to alert anyone else in the lobby.

The exchange was quick. Her pulling out a small notebook with a red theme on it. Eijirou jotting down what was most definitely more than just his name on the inside cover. Handing the notebook back to the woman who looked like she may faint.

It made Katsuki's lip curl as he attempted to hold his growl.

The receptionist spoke in a breathless tone as her eyes kept glued to the notebook. "I'll get the next representative to cover your case as soon as possible. Thank you."

Eijirou chuckled quietly. "Um, thank you. C'mon Katsuki, let's sit."

They made their way to a quieter corner of the lobby. The closest occupants, a large man in a hoodie that completely obscured his face accompanied by a bird hybrid, seated three chairs away.

Eijirou's knee started bouncing almost as soon as they were seated. Katsuki could almost feel the nerves rippling across his skin. In an attempt to help, Katsuki placed a hand on Eijirou's shaking thigh and leaned against him as much as their stupid plastic chairs allowed. "Thanks." Eijirou murmured after stilling a bit and placing his hand over Katsuki's.

Katsuki and Eijirou hadn't been seated more than a few minutes before they were called into a free office.

The atmosphere inside was stiff, worse than the lobby, and the man at the computer was stuffy. His aura was taunt and he smelled sterile like rubbing alcohol and it made Katsuki's nose wrinkle at the burn. He already hated the man for it.

"If you'll be seated I can check for a microchip." The man instructed in the most monotonous tone.

Eijirou pulled up a chair next to the stool Katsuki was to sit in and they sat in unison.

There was an unsettling crack as the man put on a pair of nitrile gloves, letting the material snap against his wrist needlessly. He then pulled out a device that looked as if it was meant to torture someone. A handle with a screen and buttons attached to a strange circular piece. It looked like it could produce electricity which had Katsuki growling and scrambling to move out of the way.

Katsuki's ass left the stool and aimed for the triangle Eijirou's torso had made with his elbow resting on his knee. Which was idiotic because Katsuki knew he couldn't fit but he dived straight for it anyway. Eijirou squawked because the momentum of Katsuki's dive sent them both crashing to the floor.

"GET THA'FUCKER WAY'FROM ME!" Katsuki barked so loud the man covered the ear closest to them with his free hand.

Katsuki managed to, not cower, fit in Eijirou's lap. He was curled with hackles raised, tail tucked, ears back, teeth bore, and huffing out hot rumbling growls.

The man in question froze with a look of exasperation on his face.

"Katsuki, woah." Eijirou said after getting some air back in his lungs. "It's just a scanner bud. It doesn't hurt."

Katsuki shook his head violently. His whole frame was shaking like a lone leaf on a barren branch.

"S'what those fuckers said!" He snarled trying to bury himself closer without actually taking his eyes off the mad man with the weird shock-wand. Katsuki wanted to believe Eijirou but Eijirou didn't know what the fuck that thing was! Things like that HURT !

The sterile man's brow furrowed and his eyes narrowed. "If you are quite finished, please expose the skin on the scruff of his neck for me." He made a gesture to the area he wanted on the back of his own neck then opened a drawer and hid the shock-wand inside.

As if that would make Katsuki forget the fucker existed! Dumb motherfucking human! Katsuki wasn't stupid!

Eijirou's expression copied the sterile man's except for the narrowed eyes. Eijirou's carmine were instead downturned with concern.

Eijirou's hand sifted through Katsuki's hair. Leafing through the strands, rubbing the pads of his fingers into his skull. "Katsuki? Can I?" 

Katsuki's chest expanded with each labored breath. He desperately wanted to tell them both to fuck off, but he was... Scared. Pathetically terrified that if he refused he'd be taken away from Eijirou. He didn't want to be forced away from a comfortable place. Forced away from his Eijirou.

Katsuki locked his jaw. "You only. He's not fuckin' touchin' me."

"Hybrids don--" The sterile man had the audacity to open his haughty gob. 

Eijirou was swift to cut the asshole off though. With a sharp glare and contrastingly soft but firm tone. "Of course, Katsuki. He doesn't have to touch you, promise."

Katsuki's lip trembled, nose flaring as he swallowed harshly to wet his dry throat. "Only you?"

"Only me. He won't touch," Eijirou's voice dropped afterward, lowly as a tone that had Katsuki still came unexpectedly from the hero. "Will he?"

"Of-of course not." The man stuttered after clearing his throat. "Just need to take a look."

Eijirou's voice went eerily right back to the tone Katsuki was used to when he spoke his name in a question.

"Kay." Katsuki grunted for an answer before turning his face into Eijirou's shoulder.

Eijirou's hand slid down to find the patch of skin the man wanted to see. One hand pulled down the collar of Katsuki's shirt while the other moved the hair laying over his neck. The sterile smelling man only hummed when they saw, but Katsuki felt Eijirou stiffen and gasp at the mess of scaring.

Katsuki wasn't completely sure what it looked like but knew it was probably bad, since it hurt like nothing he'd ever experienced before when they did it to him.

"What happened!?" Eijirou asked, hand trembling against Katsuki.

"Looks as if someone tried to fry the chip instead of risking removal. Likely they didn't have the correct tools or they didn't know exactly where the chip was inserted so they instead used electricity. There's no point in scanning for one, I won't find anything." The man stated coldly.

He then moved around his desk, discarded the gloves and started typing on his computer.  "Is there a reason someone wouldn't want anyone to find out previous information?"

Eijirou took a silent moment to pick them both off the floor and cleared his own voice. "Yeah, probably."

"Mmm, can I inquire why?"

Eijirou paused again before answering just to situate them back in one of the chairs. "We recently cleared out a hybrid fighting ring. Katsuki was one of the victims, we are working on relocating everyone but I decided to take in Katsuki."

Katsuki felt like a damned lap dog, still curled in Eijirou's lap as he talked to the idiot associate who used too much hand sanitizer. But he'd also be damned if he was gonna move any time soon. Eijirou had become his safety net for some reason.

"I see, we've received a list of those hybrids. Some don't have pictures attached though, just descriptions. Let me see if I can find him in the list." The man then clicked around his computer, supposedly checking said list. "Alpha, Wolf Hybrid, blonde, red eyes..."

"Yes, it does look like he's added to the list. However, not a lot has been added besides that he's in your custody for the moment. That's unfortunate."

"Does it say who made the list? And what's 'unfortunate' about it?" Eijirou asked.

Katsuki had an idea about the unfortunate. Though he had no clue how these 'legal' chains of custody worked. Katsuki still knew he was a problem if he was listed as overly aggressive. He could be taken from Eijirou in the blink of an eye, especially if it was noted he'd killed some of those fuckers. Katsuki tightened his grip around Eijirou. They'd have to pry his cold dead body away!

"The list was compiled by... Hmm," The man paused as his brow wrinkled.

The next tone the man used was dripping in scorn, as if he was unsure of the credibility of what he read aloud. "Hybrid 'heroes' Chargebolt and Ear Jack, overseen by Heroes Uravity and Ingenium."

Katsuki nearly missed Eijirou's sign of relief because his mind stuck on 'Hybrid Heroes'. No matter how disbelieving the sterilized man sounded. He couldn't stop himself from voicing his thoughts. "Since when've there been hybrid heroes!?"

Katsuki could hear the gnash of Eijirou's molars, and the creak of his sharp teeth grinding against each other before the man spoke. "All because Chargebolt and Ear Jack wrote the list? Both of them are my good friends, not to mention reputable heroes."

Katsuki's ears swiveled as he inclined his head toward Eijirou's words. Not only were there actual hybrid heroes, but Eijirou was good friends with them too!? Katsuki loathed to admit it but he was excited. He could already feel his tail thumping against Eijirou's thigh. Eijirou must have felt it too because it didn't take long before his hand moved down to the base of Katsuki's spine. He dug his fingers through the fabric to scratch where his tail started. The reaction was immediate, a shiver wracking Katsuki from ears to toes. His foot even jerked awkwardly as if someone hit the soft spot on his kneecap. Eijirou only continued to stare the man down like Katsuki didn't have a weird string connecting the base of his tail to his left heel.

"Surely." The man scoffed. "Regardless of who listed the information, there is still nothing to go on. We have to build a profile from the ground up. Hence the required steps."

"Fine. How does this work exactly? When will I get to complete the adoption?"

The man cleared his throat, shifted uncomfortably and tapped away at his keyboard. "I'll make a home visit appointment, this office has to oversee it. I'll also print a list of approved Hybrid Doctors for the medical and mental evaluations. You will be responsible for creating the appointments for those. I'll hand you a card with all our office information so the doctor you choose can send their reports to us directly. If Katsuki passes the medical portion and you both pass the home visits then the adoption process will be completed at that time. However, you have thirty days to comply or the adoption is void. You forfeit Katsuki and he will be taken to a facility with an open slot for booking." He finished his speech just as the printer behind him beeped.

"I have to complete all this in thirty days!? Dude, I don't know if you realize but my job doesn't allow a bunch of free time. I work seven day weeks most of the time! How'm I supposed to get all these appointments set before then?"

The man ignored Eijirou's outburst, as he stapled together sets of pages, placed them neatly in a packet and slid them across the desk. "Comply and complete are two different things Mr. Kirishima. The thirty days will reset with every update, it's a grace period so that steps are taken."

"Okay." Eijirou answered with relief in his tone. He leaned forward, bracing Katsuki so he didn't fall out of his lap, and took the packet. "Follow the steps, got it. You said you were making a home visit appointment? Are you making that visit personally?"

The man sneered, his lip pulling in disgust. Katsuki's nose burned as he squirted more sanitizer on his hands and ripped a sterilized wipe out of a tube to rub down the surface of the desk no one had even touched. "Of course not. My job is to input paperwork, cross-check credentials and make appointments. A Hybrid social worker will be making home visits. Now, we have someone available for Wednesday or Friday anytime at noon or later. Which works better for you?"

Katsuki swore he heard Eijirou mutter 'thank the gods' before he spoke up. "Friday and sometime around two so we have a few more days to settle. Is that all? We have other things to do today and I'd like to get going."

"Yes. Let me fill you out an appointment card and you may be on your way." The man answered curtly, jotting down something on a tiny rectangular paper. He handed it to Eijirou as they both stood.

Eijirou didn't even move to help Katsuki down to the floor, just adjusted his hands to pull Katsuki up on his hip as if Katsuki were a small child instead of a full grown hybrid at over 178cm tall.

"Thanks." Eijirou said with a bow so shallow it might as well have been a head nod.

Katsuki had no choice but to cling to Eijirou because he all but charged out of the man's office. He only slowed to tip a chin out of respect to the fangirl receptionist before he was out the lobby door and down the street.

"Oi! Lemme down!" Katsuki barked a little too close to Eijirou's ear.

"Ah, sorry bud. I just--" Eijirou sighed as he placed Katsuki on his own two feet. "That guy really pissed me off, y'know. He-- Nevermind, he's not important. Let's get to shopping, yeah?"

Katsuki huffed an affirmative back.

Eijirou placed the packet he had been given in his satchel then reached for Katsuki's hand. "C'mon, shopping will be a lot more fun than that fiasco. I can't wait to get you some cool stuff!!"

The uplift in Eijirou's mood was soothing. Much better than what he showcased in the office. Katsuki obliged by taking his human's hand without hesitation and the pair continued down the increasingly busy street.

Chapter Text

Eijirou had been afraid the shopping strip would be over crowded. The last thing he wanted was to overwhelm Katsuki after how stressful the visit to the hybrid welfare office had been. His concerns were thankfully assuaged once they arrived. The shoppers were relatively low in number due to it being late afternoon on a Tuesday. With their late morning start they ended up arriving after lunch but before most people got off work. The hybrid themed shopping center was far from dead, but there were not as many people as Eijirou was dreading.

"Katsuki, what would you like first?" Eijirou asked the hybrid whose focus was glued to a full scene window display. Eijirou didn't find the mock 'bedroom' all that appealing. Especially with the human sized pet bed being the focal point but Katsuki seemed captivated by all the little details. "We can start with clothes? Get you an outfit to wear that actually fits?"

Katsuki tore his gaze from the display to glance at Eijirou. His lips were pursed and his brow drawn tightly on his forehead but he nodded okay.

"Cool. I think they have a decently priced place a few stores down the market street."

Katsuki followed when Eijirou moved away. His eyes were constantly changing focus though as new sights drew his attention. Widow displays, people, hybrids, specialty shops. It was a lot to take in, Eijirou knew.

"Don't worry about the size or amount of the items we get, alright? I can call a friend to pick us up if we grab too much to carry on our own." Eijirou warned as they crossed the clothing store threshold.

Immediately Katsuki's eyes bugged as he took in the sheer amount of clothing. His fingers flexed toward the first rack before pulling what had to be the smallest pair of pants Eijirou had ever seen. Cute, but obviously made for a pup. "I think the men's clothes are over on that side."

"M'kay." Katsuki mumbled, half distracted as he put the pants back and the pair of them moved together down the aisles.

"Pick out whatever catches your eye! If you aren't sure they fit we can try them on first."

Eijirou got a side-eye from a lady sifting through some shirts on an end-cap discountdisplay. Eijirou figured she was of the mind that hybrids didn't have preferences and should not be 'allowed' to pick their own clothes. It rubbed him the wrong way but there was not much he could do without starting an argument or changing the laws.

Katsuki was thankfully oblivious as he ran his hands through a few hung shirts and thumbed a few pants, then moved onto the next shelf. Eijirou followed quietly, not wanting to rush him.

"I can grab whatever?" Katsuki asked after fifteen minutes of leafing through different items.

"Yeah! Make sure you grab a minimum of 7 shirts, 5 pants, a weeks worth of underwear and socks, and two pairs of shoes! You can have more if you find more, but we gotta have that."

"Where do I put them?"

Eijirou floundered, "Oh, shit. Stay here and pick some stuff, I'll go grab a basket!" He turned in a hurry weaving back out of the racks to get to the front of the store, feeling stupid for having forgotten the simple task of grabbing a dumb basket.

On his way back Eijirou spotted the lady who eyed them earlier in a heated conversation with an employee. She was gesturing wildly in the direction on the menswear and when she caught sight of Eijirou headed back she jabbed a finger at him.

Eijirou hesitated in his step. Half worried about Katsuki, half wondering if he was meant to go over to them because the lady was obviously complaining about him and or Katsuki. Fortunately, the sales associate answered his question when they shook their head and made a discreet shooing motion behind the lady's back. When the lady turned back toward the employee they put on a pleasing business smile and escorted her right towards the exit.

Shrugging, Eijirou continued back to Katsuki. It took a moment, but eventually he found the wolf over in the undergarment section. He looked in the same fascinated mood as he'd been when Eijirou left, completely unaffected by whatever that lady was up to.

Getting closer, Eijirou announced his presence. "Hey, bud. How's the search going?"

Katsuki turned to reveal arms laden with a few items in the drab rainbow of blacks and grays. Eijirou was dumbstruck as Katsuki silently loaded his chosen clothes into the basket.

One by one Katsuki added two skull motif shirts, one solid black shirt, two sweat pants in black and gay, and one  set of black track pants with a white stripe down each leg.

"Uh..." Eijirou blanked. The last thing he wanted was to discourage Katsuki. But his choices were so depressing.

"All this looks like lounge clothes. What if we decide to go places?"

"Tch, I know that! Was waitin' on you, m'not gonna carry all this shit in my hands!" Katsuki barked as pink rose in his cheeks. He turned on his heel and swiped a few packages off the shelf, dumping trunks and socks into the basket.

Eijirou picked up the package of trunks to check the size before switching them out for one larger of the same style and colors. He knew despite Katsuki's tiny hips he'd be uncomfortable without more room for his package.

He was almost caught swaping sizes when Katsuki checked over his shoulder to be certain Eijirou followed him down the aisle.

Thankfully Eijirou's suggestion was followed as Katsuki started picking through 'nicer' shirts. Button downs and V necks, in more than just black.

By the time they were ready to check out Eijirou realized he was definitely going to need to call in a favor from a friend. It wasn't even that much, just necessities! A full weeks worth of clothes and a few addons Eijirou insisted they get. 

Like a coat, some house slippers and a awsome haori that looked really good on Katsuki. It shamefully made Eijirou want to dress him up in some nice clothes, something traditional or maybe a western suit? He'd look good with white roses.

When they left the clothes store they were laden with bags full of black, gray, and white linen accented by a few deep reds, army greens, and blood oranges. It was kinda exciting to find out Katsuki preferred colors! Maybe one of them was actually his favorite color!?

"I'm gonna make a call to a friend, we're gonna have way too much to carry after the next shop!" Eijirou said as they paused by a bench. They both carried three shopping bags and Eijirou had to set his down to fish out his phone.

Katsuki sat down while Eijirou dialed up said friend. Three rings later he got a "Sup, Ei?" From the line.

"Hey, Hanta are you off duty today?"

"Yup, considering what went down yesterday Mina and I are home with Denki and Kyouka."

"Oh, shit. I totally spaced, are they okay? I think Uraraka was the one to pull them out, I didn't see them yesterday."

Hanta let a dry chuckle crackle across the line. Not often did he let his easy-going mood waver and just the thought had Eijirou cringing as he pictured the look on his friend's face.

"You know how apposed Mina was to Kyouka and Denki going undercover to that ring. It was pretty bad but Denki bounces back fast and Kyouka's fine too."

"I'm so sorry Hanta. I should've checked in with them personally! I'm their friend too, shit."

"Hey, don't worry about it. Denki said you had your hands full with one of the hybrids."

Eijirou sighed, a sheepish smile appearing his lips even though Hanta couldn't see it. "Right, well that's kinda why I'm calling? You see, I kinda went overboard with shopping already and we still have some stuff to pick up so I was wondering if you'd come get us?"

Hanta laughed and Eijirou heard a squeal on the other end before static hummed over the receiver. "Wait! You still have Kacchan with you!? I wanna go too Hanta!"

Hanta's muffled voice answered Denki's sudden screech. " Denki, let go! You're gonna make me drop the phone! Sorry Ei, one sec." 

It was muffled but Eijiroucould still make out what Hanta's voice was saying. " My car's not big enough for a bunch of shit and four bodies Denki, you have to stay home."

While Denki whined on the other end and Hanta was shuffling around, likely trying to dislodge his hybrid from climbing all over him, Eijirou glanced over at Katsuki. He was sitting right where Eijirou left him, ears trainer toward the call and crimson gaze locked on the phone.

Eijirou swallowed down the lump building in his throat and whispered; "Katsuki?"

The hybrid's eyes flickered to Eijirou, shock melting into a softer expression. Katsuki's lips turned up in an almost smile as he spoke. "Tell Sparky to shut the fuck up."

The whining on Hant's end cut off abruptly. "I heard that! Dont lie Kacchan, you know you missed my beautiful face!"

Katsuki snorted, and Eijirou stared in wonder as his grin grew.  "In your dreams fucker!"

Hanta was back to laughing, Denki whining, but all Eijirou's focus was on Katsuki. The pleased tilt to his lips, the relaxed way he lounged back on the bench, the mirth dancing in his gaze. He was only broke from his blatant staring when Hanta's voice filtered through the call.

"Did you need me to leave now or...?"

"Oh! Uh, no. We arn't done yet. Maybe an hour? You're only thirty minutes out from the hybrid shopping strip right?"

"Depending on traffic."

"Right. If you leave in an hour we should be done by the time you get here. I really appreciate you're help."

"You're always there for us Ei, I'll see you soon."

The receiver clicked when Hanta hung up and Eijirou pocketed his phone. He turned back to face Katsuki. He was no longer smiling, his lips back in their downturned position. His eyes were focused far away, unfeeling.

"Katsuki? You okay?"

Katsuki hummed. "Sparky an Ears... Denki an Kyouka..? They're hybrid heroes, Chargebolt an Ear Jack?"

Eijirou moved to sit beside Katsuki. "Yup, they are relatively new and not as known yet so they were assigned to go undercover at the ring, so we could get you all outta there."

Katsuki was silent after that, contemplating before he finally spoke again. "You said they're your friends. Can they visit?"

"Of course! They visit all the time!" Eijirou cheered happily. "And it sounds like Denki will force his way over sometime soon so he can see you!"

There was a thump from Katsuki's tail against the bench once. Then warmth flooded Eijirou's core as Katsuki slid himself over to press into him. Tucking his head into the meat of Eijirou's peck. Digging his claws into the denim just above Eijirou's knee.

Maybe he was a little too attached to the wolf hybrid who suddenly invaded his life but Eijirou could care less as he basked in the intimacy. His arm automatically looping around Katsuki's middle to keep him close. His cheek pillowing on Katsuki's fluffy hair.

It had been so long since he was allowed to just cuddle a dude. Sure Denki like to cuddle, but usually with Kyouka or Hanta.

This felt more exclusive.

Eijirou couldn't really picture Katsuki cuddling with anyone else.

They were starting to draw attention from nosy shoppers. Public displays of affection were more accepted if you happened to be ‘doating’ on your hybrid instead of your human lover. Most people thought it was cute or something. the reasoning behind it made Eijirou cringe though, which effectively killed the mood to cuddle.

“Hey bud, how about we finish up our shopping? I don’t want Hanta to be waiting on us when he gets here.”

Katsuki grunted in a decidedly unhappy manner, nuzzled into Eijirou’s shirt, then pulled back. He muttered, “Whatever” as he stood.

Eijirou stood too and gathered the bags. “Sorry Katsuki, but we can relax when we get back home. Promise.”

Unfortunately, because of the items they needed were going to be in the first shop that garnered Katsuki’s attention. The one with the display Eijirou wasn’t fond of. However, the shop was going to have other specialty items hybrids required.

So they went inside.

“Welcome! Would your hybrid like a taste of samples!?” A cheerful woman called out as soon as they’d stepped in.

Katsuki jumped away a rumble starting in his throat. Eijirou put out a hand to steady him, an apology already forming on his lips but bless the woman, she didn’t even blink. Her smile still in place as she continued with her speel.

“Canine, right? Does he have any allergies?” She chirped, already placing a paper plate with seven labeled biscuits on them. “We had a little mix up so all these are on sale right now!”

“Uh, thanks.” Eijirou said, taking the plate she was pretty much forcing into his hand.

“If he fancies any of them, they are stacked on the display right behind me! Happy shopping!” The woman finished, immediately dismissing them for another poor customer that walked in with their hybrid.

Katsuki was still growling, eyes pinned to the woman, teeth bore as his lips rippled with the low sound.

“Katsuki, it’s okay. She’s just doing her job. I’m sure she’s just as enthused about it as you are.” Eijirou patted the wolf’s shoulder before steering him off. “Did you want to try these?”

His eyes slid from the woman and to the plate instead. “Safe?”

Eijirou only thought the question odd for a moment before kicking himself. Of course Katsuki didn’t know stores couldn’t possibly offer unsafe foods. 

“Yes, no doubt.”

Katsuki’s brow furrowed but he tentatively picked one of the biscuits off the plate. It was shaped like a pastry and when Katsuki grabbed it, it had some give as if it was fluffy. He pulled it close, glaring  at it before he sniffed it. Then, instead of taking a bite, Katsuki licked the thing. 

His face scrunched in disgust and Eijirou couldn’t help but laugh.

“Sweet.” Katsuki spat, dropping the biscuit back on the plate.

“Really?” Ejiirou juggled the bags so he could grab the biscuit himself. Hybrid’s were a little more sensitive to salt and sugars so they weren’t supposed to eat human snacks or they’d get sick. But hybrid treats were pretty healthy and harmless to humans so Eijirou didn't hesitate as he popped the biscuit in his mouth.

Katsuki was right, it was unnaturally sweet for a hybrid treat. Eijirou didn’t mind it, but Katsuki was obviously not a fan.

“I’m sure they arn’t all sweet. You can try another? This one looks like its a cracker, so maybe it’ll be savory?” Eijirou handed over a different sample. Again, Katsuki sniffed at it before actually biting a small bit off.

“S’okay.” He said as he put the rest of it in his mouth.

Two more of the treats were rejected because they smelled like the first. Eijirou tested them both and sure enough, they were also sweet, though not as much as the pastry treat. Two others were meaty treats which Katsuki approved of, while the last was alarmingly red and looked like a rolled up chip.

Eijirou tried to pull the plate out of Katsuki’s reach but the hybrid swiped the treat up too fast. Just like the others he smelled it first, unlike the others his eyes lit up and Eijirou swore he saw some drool before the treat disappeared with a happy hum to follow.

“Wasn’t that spicy!?” Eijirou asked in astonishment.

“Yes.” Katsuki answered as he moved over to the display the woman mentioned and grabbed four whole boxes of the spicy treat.

“Uh, bud…”

“They’re on sale.” Katsuki cut in confidently as he went back to Eijirou’s side.

Eijirou chuckled.

Katsuki won.

“Okay, let’s get a cart.”

With the treats in the cart, and their shopping bags hanging from the sides, Eijirou made Katsuki lead the way. He only prompted Katsuki with a few required items like he had with the clothes.

"We can start with hygiene. We need toiletries and stuff for grooming, but if anything catches your eye on the way we can get that too."

Katsuki was cautious when he led, not straying too far from the front of the cart. Once they were in the correct aisle he moved farther, inspecting all the different colored bottles and items filling the shelves.

"Need help?"

Katsuki's bottom lip stuck out as he intently started down two identical bottles. "I can read'em…"

Eijirou smiled softly. Thankfully not a lot of the products had complicated Kanji on them which was the only thing Katsuki said he couldn't read. He just was obviously slow at it which was understandable.

"You can smell them by popping the cap. You'll need shampoo, conditioner and body wash. It probably isn't good if you keep using mine."

Katsuki only hur-umphed back in answer. He continued to inspect some labels before eventually doing as Eijirou suggested. A few bottles were immediately rejected with disgust, but Katsuki eventually found some scentless soaps he deemed worthy.

As for a few other items, to Eijirou's surprise, Katsuki kept bounding over to him with two options and made Eijirou choose.

First with two types of brushes, then again with some claw care kits. While Katsuki was occupied, Eijirou added a few things to the cart as well. Like lotion, burn cream and some stuff that was supposed to be good on rough scars.

If Katsuki noticed the extra products he didn't make a comment.

"Sweet, now for the fun stuff!" Eijirou cheered as Katsuki placed the last item, a box of luxury bath bombs shaped like grenades, into the cart. He had been staring at them everything he passed and eventually Eijirou had to gesture at them and the basket before the hybrid took them off the shelf.

"What 'fun stuff'?"

Eijirou grinned wide, "Luxury stuff dude! Things you actually like instead of need! Things that'll make my home ours! Stuff that's yours, not mine."

Katsuki's face did that thing again. Where his brows pulled together, his lips pursed and the bridge of his nose wrinkled. Eijirou didn't like it. He looked one part confused, one part angry. As if Katsuki was angry that he was confused. No one shouldn't be confused about comfort items.

"What type'a shit is that?"

Eijirou tried very hard not to let his smile wane, but fuck was it hard with Katsuk's sad crimson gaze locking him in place. "Anything. We can browse around, no pressure Katsuki. If you see something interesting or that you think you want we add it to the basket!"

"Oh…" Katsuki tore away his gaze and started off down the aisle again. One hand clutched in a white knuckle grip on the end of the basket.

Eijirou grimaced when his back turned. He'd known Katsuki had to have spent most of his life in a cage, but it was really hitting him just how much the hybrid was deprived of. If he thought about it too hard he knew he'd start tearing up so instead he bit down on his lip and guided them toward the bedding aisle.

Katsuki was dragging his feet as they walked, his eyes trained on the floor. His mind likely turning over what Eijirou had said. It was the display sitting on the endcap of the aisle that drew Katsuki’s attention.

The sign claimed the “Pro Hero Themed Plush Toys” were durable enough to withstand the most avid chewers.

Katsuki’s hand pulled out one of the 30cm plushes from the tub. It was a little Red Riot. Its little face stitched in Eijirou’s likeness. Katsuki’s thumb brushed right over the pink stitched scar over the plush’s right eye. A soft look filtered over Katsuki’s face as he placed the plush in their basket with care, complete with a gentle pat to the plush’s spiky red head that made Eijirou’s cheeks go hot.

Then bloth Katsuki’s hands dived back into the tub, tossing aside many. Eijirou had to catch a flying Hawks after Katsuki tossed it over his shoulder once he was done observing the plush’s obvious Hybrid wings. Countless plushies were pushed aside before he finally pulled one free, glared at it, then tossed it into their basket. His hands immediately plunged back into the tub.

It was a Chargebolt, Eijirou noted. Which was sweet if not unexpected, Eijirou was going to have to let them come over some time soon.

The next to join was an Ear Jack plush in which Katsuki had treated with a bit more care as he placed it beside his Red Riot.

“What!?” Katsuki snapped when he caught Eijirou’s eye.

With a shake of his head and a toothy grin Eijirou replied. “Nothing, I'm just glad you picked something!”

The hybrid huffed, his chest puffing out and his eyes rolling to the ceiling. He even mutter something but Eijirou could only make out two words of it: 'simple human'.

Eijirou didn't take offense. It was hard when Katsuki's cheeks were pink and his ears flat with embarrassment.

Eijirou soldiered on instead, not drawing attention to Katsuki'shuffy attitude. "How's about some blankets or pillows? Anything that feels soft? I don't know if Alphas nest like I heard Omegas do but having comfort items to cuddle with can't be a bad thing."

The aisle was full of stuff. From pillows of all shapes and sizes to blankets in various colors and lengths. There were even comicly large pet beds that honestly made Eijirou's lip curl. Something about picturing an adult humanoid person curled in a glorified dog bed was wrong.

So ofcourse that was one of the first things Katsuki looked at. Eijirou had to bite his tongue before saying anything crass. He'd just told the wolf he could have whatever he wanted, Eijirou couldn't go back and tell him no now.

What's this?" Katsuki asked poking at the fluffy wall of one pet bed.

Eijirou chewed on his cheek before moving to explain when a strikingly monotone voice cut in instead. He hadn't even noticed one of the employees crouched on the ground,  stalking shelves.

"Its a hybrid sized pet bed." The teen droned out.

Katsuki's eyes cut to the employee, eyes narrowed and burning. "A. Bed..."

"Yeah, a bed. Y'kno t'sleep in?" The teen cut dryly eyes dragging from Katsuki feet to head. "Most owners choose futons. But some weirdos like these."

Katsuki turned, his heated gaze changing targets as he locked onto Eijirou. "Do I gotta have one?"

"I'd rather get you a nice futon, if you want your own bed. I don't mind the arrangement we had last night though. Whatever you want bud, we can make it happen."

"Don't want one." Katsuki decided firmly. Tension dropped from his shoulders as he moved passed the beds and over to some pillows instead. "You already got pillows n'stuff."

"Alphas usually like a fluffy space to themselves. Kinda like a nest." The employee cut in once more.

"You'll want your own pillows and blankets for your claimed space. All of these have materials that are easy to wash but hold sent well. It'll help with ruts, separation anxiety and whatnot." The employee stood, dusted off their knees and pointed down another aisle. "We got a good selection of informative walk through books for new owners. Some of 'em are made for Hybrids themselves like puberty books for kids."

Eijirou's eyes went wide at the mention. He hadn't even thought about that yet. Too busy working on making Katsuki comfortable.

He was definitely going to need those books! He was also going to need to have a few awkward conversations with Katsuki later. "Thank you. We'll be sure to check it out."

The teen dipped their head in a short bow before making their way out of the aisle.

Eijirou sighed as he glanced over to Katsuki hoping he'd be good to pick some stuff out. Instead he was hit with a question he would never have been prepared for.

"The fuck's a rut?"

Surely that was not what Eijirou heard, right? How did a full grown Alpha Hybrid not know what a rut was? As far as Eijirou was aware hybrids hit puberty around the same time humans did. Which mean baby ruts and heats at as early as 11 years. Katsuki was Eijirou's age which meant over a decade without knowing what a rut was!? Had he ever even had one before!?

That couldn't be healthy.

Just another reason to get him to the doctor as soon as possible for a proper check up.

Eijirou's hands flopped around useless as he racked his brain for any appropriate knowledge he could share in public that would explain. "A rut, uh, it's y'kno a instinctual urge I guess? To um, bree-- FIND A MATE! Yeah! We'll grab some books, definitely, they'll explain better."

"Sounds dumb." Katsuki snorted through a curled lip.

Eijirou laughed nervously. "Haha, so uh you've never...?" Glancing around to make sure they were alone Eijirou felt safe enough to make a lewd gesture by jerking a loose fist in front of himself.

Eijirou nearly screamed in horror when Katsuki copied the gesture.

His hand coming up to jerk the air, head tilted to the side and ears cocked one straight up and the other flipped flat. "Never...? What?"

Eijirou grabbed Katsuki's hand in both of his own to stop the motion. "Don't, just uh, don't do that in front of people okay?"

"Ha!? But you just did! Why? What's it mean?"

"Shhh! It's a dirty gesture, it means jerking off." Eijirou hissed, once again eyeing the aisle.

Katsuki's nose wrinkled. "And what's that supposed to fuckin' mean!? You're making no sense!"

"I'm sorry! I'll explain later, just not here okay!? Please!" Eijirou was almost sobbing he could feel the heat in his cheeks and ears, surely his face was the same color as his hair.

What a disaster. 

"Just, can you pick some blankets and pillows? Please, Katsuki."

"Fine!" Katsuki huffed, his arms crossing over his chest as he turned back to the shelves. "This ain't over though."

Eijirou sighed, burying his heated face into his hands.

Of course it wasn't.

The shopping trip was so long. Katsuki felt like they would be gone forever. But eventually Eijirou's phone rang and they had to wrap it up.

They had so much crap that it almost didn't fit in the little car the man, with weird-ass elbows and a just as strange smile, brought. Eijirou had even insisted they both sit in the back seat. While Katsuki complained at first, and elbow man said there was more room if someone sat up front with him, Katsuki was glad.

The car smelled too heavily of different scents. Scents from the man driving, and the different odors from all their new items. Katsuki even got a whiff of Denki and Kyouka trace sent along with an unknown female.

Having Eijirou close allowed Katsuki's nerves to settle since he was able to burrow under one of his new blankets, pillow his head on Eijirou's thigh and sneakily shoving his Red Riot plushie up the man's shirt.

Okay, so Eijirou definitely knew Katsuki put the plushie there, but he didn't say anything about it so it was a win in Katsuki's eyes.

The ride was quiet and the elbow man was, /alright/. At least he introduced himself to Katsuki and didn't treat him like a stupid dog. There was no baby talk or aggressive behavior. In fact the man was pretty mellow and calming despite the exaggerated smile.

Which had to be why, after Katsuki blocked out the other scents, he fell asleep during the ride home.

It was Eijirou's voice that woke him. It was a foggy wake up too, he never woke up so slow before.

"I'll carry him up." Eijirou whispered.

"Dude, you can just wake him. He'll be okay." That was the elbow guy, Katsuki's brain pieced together groggily. 

"No, man. You didn't see him when I first got him yesterday. He looked like he hadn't ever slept. I don't wanna wake him if I don't have to. Besides, he's scary light."

Katsuki begrudged that, but he also didn't want to move yet so he resigned himself to being carried. However, he must have moved unnaturally because Eijirou was speaking directly to him next.

"Oh, hey Katsuki. You awake?" Eijirou breathed the quiet question right over Katsuki's ear which involuntary flicked.

Katsuki huffed, pulling the blanket around himself more. "No. Sleeping."

There was a small chuckle before he was being bundled up more and dragged carefully out of the back seat. "I'm gonna carry you up then since you're asleep."

"M'kay." Katsuki grunted when Eijirou got him up out of the back seat. It took him a small amount of juggling but eventually Katsuki was firmly in Eijirou's arms with Katsuki's nose tucked under his chin and head hooded by the blanket.

"Here, this fell out." Elbows said. The man's fingers were lucky Katsuki was too tired to snap at him when he dared to stick his hand into the blankets, tucking something between Katsuki and Eijirou before pulling back.

Katsuki growled belatedly only settling when Eijirou hushed him.

Next thing Katsuki knew he was waking fully. His head cushioned on the new backed zabuton that sported a half circle hole for tails. His body was still burritoed inside his blanket and tucked under the kotatsu. Red was in his vision and it took him embarrassingly long to realize it was just his plushie.

"Ah, are you actually awake this time?" Eijirou asked from close by.

Katsuki pushed at the blanket until he was able to turn around.

Eijirou was folding baskets of clothes and blankets, of which Katsuki recognized as the stuff they just bought earlier.

"M'up." He croaked back as he shimmed up to sit properly in his seat. He brought Red Riot with him, finding his other two plushies nearby and lined them up on the table.

"I kept all your stuff in the bags except what I washed. I figured you would want to put everything where you wanted them to go, y'know."

Katsuki flopped forward, sprawling himself out on the table top. "M'kay."

Fuck, he was still groggy.

"I ordered some hybrid friendly take out for dinner. A little bit of everything since I'm not sure what you would want. I added some spicy dishes but go easy, I'm not sure how happy your tummy is gonna be about it."

"My tummy can fuck off then." He grumbled back.

There was no way he was gonna let his stupid stomach hold him back from eating his favorite flavor! He was being careful, not stuffing himself. 

He'd made that mistake once when he was younger and stupid. Looking back on the incident made it seem like they did it on purpose. Giving Katsuki a much larger portion than what he'd ever had. Making him think he had to scarf all of it down or lose it.

Well Katsuki did lose it. Right out of his tummy when forcing that much food into his unprepared stomach made him sick all over the floor.

Never again.

Which is why with Eijirou he'd been eating really slow. So he knew when his stomach was full. It was hard not to just inhale it, but Eijirou has, so far, been trustworthy. 

Not to mention feeding Katsuki multiple times a day which was really weird.

He was too afraid the food would stop if he complained though, so he wouldn't. Wouldn't eat too fast, and wouldn't eat too much, and wouldn't get sick on the floor, and definitely wouldn't complain about having food just as his tummy felt empty again or water when he asked for it.

Eijirou looked like he was going to say something but something off caught Katsuki's attention, his head snapping to look toward the front door. There was a weird smell and his hackles raised just before something knocked against the door. 

In a flash Katsuki was on his feet, growling low and moving to the door.

Whoever decided to threaten HIS home was dead meat!

Eijirou was hot on his heels calling after him. But the words made no sense through Katsuki's focus.

Just as Katsuki got the door ajar Eijirou's hand slammed it shut again.

He was spitting and growling, but Eijirou barred his way with a hardened forearm.

"My home! You can't enter!" Katsuki barked at the wood, pulling at Eijirou's arm.

"He's not coming inside Katsuki, he's just delivering our food!"

They shuffled in the genkan. Eijirou continued to bar the way, while Katsuki spat, growled and slobbered all over Eijirou's arm.

"Dude, chill! Sorry, he hasn't had visitors yet. Thank you for bringing the food."

"Make him gone!" Katsuki growled, attempting another swipe at the door jam.

"He's leaving! He is, just back up a sec!"

Eijirou shoved Katsuki back a little, then made an exchange, thrusting a handful of small papers out the door and getting a heavy looking paper sack back.

"Really, I'm sorry! I don't need change! Thank you!"

Then the door was shut and locked.

"Don't come back!" Katsuki shouted at the door.

"Okay. No more take out, got it." Eijirou sighed, and wiped his slobbered upon arm against his pant leg.

The genkan no longer smelled like a stranger. Instead it smelled like food! Which made Katsuki's mouth water, he could smell the spice in some of it!

"Food?"

Eijirou looked up from the brown bag with an amused smile. "Yeah, food. Let's go sit back down."

Eijirou led, going into the kitchen to grab a few things like sauce and shallow dishes to put them in. Then to the table to make a spread of all the different foods he had in the bag.

"Eat what you want. Those are spicy," Eijirou pointed to three separate cartons, "Just don't eat too much, okay? I don't want you to make yourself sick and we can have leftovers for breakfast."

"I know." Katsuki huffed.

They ate in silence. Eijirou was flipping through some papers, reading intently. Katsuki focused on his food, making sure he continued to eat slowly. It was pretty challenging when faced with the spicy dishes which were thus far the best thing he's ever eaten.

Katsuki was near to finishing when he remembered the conversation put on hold in the store.

"So what does it mean?" He said allowed after swallowing what was in his mouth.

"Eh?" Eijirou startled. He looked between his papers, his empty chopsticks, Katsuki, and back again. "What does that mean?"

Katsuki didn't pause, just with his left hand recreated the pumping action with his loose fist. "That thing, and the 'rut' thing."

A grin spread on Katsuki's lips as Eijirou's skin turned the same color his hair was. Just like it did back in the store. From Eijirou's collarbone to the tip of his ears, completely crimson. It was cute and Katsuki liked that he was the reason for the change.

"Oh, that." Eijirou cleared his throat. Set down his papers and chopsticks before leaning back. "I was kinda hoping the nap made you forget."

"Nope. So?" Katsuki prompted again. He wanted to learn, he liked learning because he absolutely abhorred looking like an idiot just because he didn't know some stupid stuff. Katsuki wasn't dumb, he was smart. Smarter than most humans even. Humans just hoarded their dumb knowledge.

"Uhg. Okay, um the gesture is a crude way of symbolizing jerking off." Eijirou answered after a halfhearted mimic of the gesture, eyes trained on the ceiling rather than Katsuki. "It's not what people talk about in public spaces so I was trying to insinuate, but that obviously didn't go so well."

Eijirou must have seen the look of utter confusion on Katsuki's face because he groaned loud before continuing.

"Jerking off? Fapping? Do you even know what masterbation is!?" Eijirou whined at the end, his voice full of defeat as he curled in on himself like he was trying to hide.

"Sounds like made up words to me." Katsuki growled.

Making Eijirou turn red was no longer fun when Katsuki could smell the frustration on him. Not the angry kind; thankfully, but frustration nonetheless.

"I don't even know where to start. I don't talk about sex stuff, like ever, especially since I've been single recently." Eijirou mumbled, "You'd be better off asking Denki honestly, he can probably explain it better."

Katsuki immediately glared at the little doll of 'Chargebolt'.

"Fuck no, he'd tease the fuck outta me for not knowing this shit."

"No he… Actually, yeah, he probably would. Shit." Eijirou groaned again and rubbed his palms into his eye sockets. "There's absolutely no way for me to get out of this, is there?"

Katsuki's nose wrinkled as he snarled a short, "No."

"Didn't think so, ah…" Eijirou grumbled, rubbing a hand up his cheek and pinching the bridge of his nose. "Books, I- I got some of those books!" He scrambled up, knees knocking into the table as he scurried away.

Katsuki slumped a little in his seat. Reading wasn't his strongest point, so he was hoping Eijirou would just tell him everything he wanted to know. 

"Really, we are going to need a doctor appointment, to make sure there's nothing seriously wrong. I can't imagine how unhealthy it is for you not to have had a rut yet. Honestly, it worries me a lot."

Eijirou made it back with a small stack of books. "So, I flipped through these and they seemed the least controversial. Not to sound condescending, but how much do you actually know about reproductive health and ruts?"

Katsuki's nose rippled with a near silent snarl. Again more words he's never heard, he was getting sick and fucking tired of repeating himself. "You gonna fucking teach me or continue t'spout words I've never fuckin' heard'a!? Ha!?"

There was a hiss from Eijirou inhaling sharp through clenched teeth. "Sorry, sorry. I just, I need to know man. Do you know where pups come from?"

Did he? Katsuki pressed his lips together and glared down at his hands. There was hot, beading sweat starting to spark in time with his ire.

Maybe vaguely, a distant memory from when he was really little and saw a very watermelon shaped belly. His mom explaining the omega wasn't fat, just pregnant with a pup inside. But as for how it got there… Not so much.

He wasn't naive enough to think the pup is spirited inside someone, because if that was possible then why not have cranes deliver them to a fucking doorstep. It would certainly be easier than figuring out how to get the pup out of a belly.

So no, he had no fucking clue where a pup originally came from.

"Hey," Eijirou leaned over the kotatsu to take Katsuki's dangerous hands in his own rigid ones. His thumbs pressing into Katsuki's wrist, fingers wrapping around the backs. Katsuki curled his own fingers over Eijirou's only to be surprised at how he was able to connect the tips of his thumb and middle finger without squeezing. "It's alright if you don't know bud. You know plenty of other stuff."

"I dunno…" Katsuki gritted back through clenched teeth.

"That's alright. So, um the process is the reproduction part. Where pups come from. For hybrids it has to do with rut and heat cycles. If an alpha hasn't had their rut, or an omega hasn't had their heat they can't reproduce, make pups. I think betas' have cycles closer to human reproduction."

Honestly the explanation had Katsuki picturing a 'build a pup' kit. Which he knew was wrong because you couldn't piece together a creature you tore to shreds and expect them to live again. So there was no way pricing together baby parts would create something alive. Besides, it still didn't explain how the fuck a pup ended up inside a person!

Eijirou slid his hands out of Katsuki's, making him tighten his grip on the smaller hands. Unwilling, because he really didn't want to let go, Katsuki released Eijirou so the man could grab a book.

"Forewarning, these books are made for a younger audience so it's gonna be talking to you like you're stupid." Eijirou said as he handed over one of the books, it was bright red with little cartoon hybrids on the cover. The title was simple enough Katsuki could read it and it was dumb: 'Your Rut and You'.

Katsuki's eyes made a journey to the ceiling and back but ultimately ended up opening the book.

The colors inside were atrocious, the caricatures way too happy, and Eijirou was right. Even as a slow reader Katsuki picked up fast on the dumbed down explanation in the sentences. He was already half a mind to blow the flimsy piece of shit up.

Eijirou's fidgeting caught Katsuki's eye as the man messed around with the other books. Stacking them, unstacking them and moving his food out of the way.

"The fuck's wrong with you?"

The man startled, looking up wide eyed and uncertain. "Nothing! No, its just, the whole reproduction thing." Eijirou made a face, his lips pulling into a twisted grimace. "I, uh, never payed much attention in those classes cause of my sexuality. I thought it wouldn't ever apply to me so, heh, I kinda zoned out. I know the basics and that's about it."

Katsuki pondered for a moment. Though he didn't know what the fuck a sexuality was the last bit made sense. He sure as hell never wanted to bring a pup into the fucked up world.

"I don't need to either then." He decided. Then tossed the book back at Eijirou who fumbled to catch it before their food went flying everywhere. "M'never gonna have pups so I don't need to know."

Eijirou squawked. "No, no! That's not what-- You need to know what a rut is. I still know how to have sex, even if the reproduction part doesn't apply, the p-pleasure part does!"

Katsuki's head dropped to the side unbidden with his sudden curiosity, "What d'you mean?"

Floundering, Eijirou turned an even deeper shade of red. "Th-the pleasure bit of it! The act of it feels good! Doing it with the person you love makes you feel closer! Besides, even if you aren't ever interested in sex, which is perfectly fine! You are still supposed to have had your rut, that's just puberty!"

"It feels good…" Katsuki repeated. "How?"

"You're killing me Katsuki, seriously. I- I don't know how to explain that to you, you just have to experience it yourself."

"Show me."

Eijirou gurgle out a sound liken to a dying cat. His palms covered his face, fingers twisted into his roots. A sobbing laugh even bubbled forth before he was able to breath a shaking sentence. "Its not something you just show someone!"

"Why the fuck not?" The myraid of emotions wafting from Eijirou was really starting to irritate Katsuki. 

"Well, other people might not care, might only need attraction, but I have to be in love with the person I'm intimate with, and they have to like me too. And even then, it hasn't really worked out so…"

Katsuki growled. "Who said I didn't like you!? Ha? And what the fuck d'you mean its never 'worked out'?"

The emotional slew coming from Eijirou dulled suddenly. Stale loathing left in its wake, so powerful Katsuki almost covered his nose against the reek.

"I said it was supposed to feel good, right? Well, I'm no good. I've never felt 'good' with the guys I've fucked, okay? And I know I wasn't able to perform properly for them either." Eijirou's eyes were glossy and he wiped his nose on the back of his hand with a sniff. "Can we be done? I'm sorry, but I can't talk about this anymore."

Katsuki shifted, but nodded his consent.

Eijirou stood, keeping his eyes locked on the floor. "Just, read the book, it doesn't have to be right now, and if you need help with some words you're free to ask, but I need a moment."

Katsuki watched Eijirou go all the way until he disappeared into the second room, shutting the door behind him. It was only a few seconds later that Katsuki heard a rhythmic thumping sound.

He never meant to upset Eijirou. In fact he was a bit terrified of what Eijirou's verdict was going to be when he came back.

He fucked up.

It made Katsuki nervous to just sit there and wait, so instead he decided to clean up. Anything to keep his mind off of the looming possibilities.

Katsuki closed all the leftovers back up and put them in the refrigerator. While in the kitchen he washed the used dishes. Then moved to finish folding the laundry. He even organized, to the best of his ability, the papers Eijirou had been messing with.

Eventually he ran out of things to keep him occupied which made him notice that the thumping had stopped. The house suddenly became eerily silent.

Maybe that meant Eijirou was done with his 'moment'?

Katsuki gathered his blanket and wrapped it around his shoulders. Then he cautiously slid down the hall, listening for any indication Eijirou was not done, or worse; pissed off.

There was nothing.

So Katsuki cracked the door open just enough to peer inside.

There was a lot to take in. The desk in one corner, a wall of floor to ceiling bookshelves filled mostly with manga or various hero merch, in another corner was a punching bag and a rack of dumbbells. However, the thing Katsuki was really interested in was Eijirou sat back to a wall, shirtless with his arms crossed over his knees and head buried within the crook of his elbow.

Breathing deep, Katsuki pushed the door wider, slipped through. He knew he was bad at comforting, but he had to try. There was no aggressive atmosphere which made him feel safe enough to pad over.

When Katsuki passed the desk he swiped the pad off the chair. He folded the pillow in half so that when he reached Eijirou he was able to tuck it behind the man, not for comfort but so when Katsuki got into the gap  as well he'd be sitting taller.

He had to push Eijirou's shoulders forward so he'd fit between the man and the wall. Eijirou grunted irritability at the handling, but settled when Katsuki dropped not only the blanket but himself over Eijirou's back.

Katsuki wasn't sitting as high as he would've liked, only able to drop his forehead onto the back of Eijirou's shoulder blade, but it was gonna have to do. The man was taller and annoyingly more bulky.

When he slid his arms under Eijirou's to hold him. He couldn't quite reach his own wrists to brace and had to purchase his hands on the man's bare chest instead.

Eijirou's skin was warm and tacky from dried sweat but not unpleasant. He also smelled more like a damp forest. Which made Katsuki upset that he wasn't tall enough to stick his nose closer to Eijirou's neck or hairline.

It wasn't long before Katsuki's wish was granted, because Eijirou leaned back and slipped further down in Katsuki's arms. He was more or less half laying on Katsuki before he stopped, and Katsuki wasn't going to complain as he took the small position change to stick his nose right where he wanted and inhale deeply. 

Eijirou huffed and twitched but didn't try to move away. Instead he let the tension roll out and brought his hands up to trace nonsensical patterns in Katsuki's forearms.

"Sorry for freaking out on you like that." Eijirou sighed softly and letting his head drop a bit to the side. Whether it was intentional or not, it gave Katsuki more room to nose around the spot behind Eijirou's ear.

"S'whatever." Katsuki rumbled back at him.

"No, it wasn't fair to you. And it isn't something I should've taken out on you."

"Shouldn't've pushed you." Katsuki huffed, "Sorry…"

"Curiosity is a good thing, I should've handled it better." Eijirou shifted to lay a bit more on his side, clinging to one of Katsuki's arm's, "This is really nice by the way, thanks."

Katsuki pouted when the movement caused him to lose contact with Eijirou's neck. He wanted it back and was tempted to chase.

Unfortunately Eijirou had other plans.

The man pulled completely away, sitting up and stretching out his back.

Eijirou popped up on his feet, cheer back in his tone as he spoke. "Okay, enough moping! There's still stuff to do and it's getting late, we should sleep soon."

Katsuki gave the man yet another noncommittal grunt before following him out of the room. Not that he wanted to leave, he wanted to go back to sitting with Eijirou in his arms. Obviously that wasn't gonna happen though.

"What? Katsuki, did you clean up?" Eijirou asked stupidity, because who else would've done that shit? "Wow! You didn't have to, but thanks bud!"

There, Katsuki's ears perked, Eijirou's wide smile was back where it should be. He even earned a head scratch right behind one ear. 

Katsuki wanted to hate the affection, he really did. Wanted to snap and growl but couldn't. Eijirou's touch was firm, but soft. Comforting in a way Katsuki thought he'd never get again.

"Tonight was supposed to be about you putting all your stuff where you wanted, not cleaning up my mess. All well, wanna take a bath and then sleep? We can rearrange tomorrow before we visit Izuku."

Fuck. Katsuki nearly forgot he'd asked to see the dumb rabbit. It was before he knew Denki and Kyouka were friends of Eijirou's. He'd much rather visit the pair of lynx then Deku.

Whatever, too late now.

Eijirou promised he could see them so Katsuki would just have to wait.

He hated waiting.

"Katsuki? Bath? Or do you just want to go to bed?"

Eijirou's voice pulled Katsuki from his thoughts and he nodded. "Bath…"

Even though Eijirou had to stick some strange tape over his wounds and he wasn't allowed to soak for too long because Eijirou was afraid the tape would start to peel, Katsuki was starting to really enjoy the bath.

Unfortunately, Eijirou refused to bathe with him the second time. It effectively shortened his time soaking. When he did get out Eijirou helped remove the tape shit and bandage him back up before tasking him with adding whatever he wanted to the bed.

Katsuki decided all three plushies deserved to join them, though he did banish Denki under a pillow. He added his new pillow to the bed along with a very soft blanket across the top part so Katsuki could tuck it around their shoulders.

Eijirou must have also taken a short soak because he was back in the room before Katsuki was finished rearranging the bedding.

"I know you didn't wake up from your nap too long ago, but hopefully you can get to sleep?"

Katsuki grunted, "M'sleepy still." 

Eijirou chuckled as he turned down one side of the bed. "That's not surprising, today was a lot. I'm pretty wiped out too."

Katsuki copied Eijirou and turned down the opposite side of the bed only to slide in past the middle. He clung to Eijirou's side when the man barely made it under the covers. 

"Woah, uh hi? Can I get all the way onto the mattress please?" Eijirou breathed through a wavering voice on the cusp of laughter.

Oops, Katsuki honestly did not mean to misjudge the space Eijirou needed to lay down. He just wanted to be close again.

With a forced huff of mock annoyance Katsuki backed off. Eijirou was able to slide his ass all the way on the bed and Katsuki attached himself again, clinging onto Eijirou's massive bicep.

Katsuki's fingers sunk into the healthy layer of fatty tissue over the muscles and he needed the flesh under his padded hands.

"Hey, Katsuki?" Eijirou whispered into the still darkness, "Can you maybe do the thing again?"

"What thing?" Katsuki asked back in confusion.

"Th-the spooning? Like last night?"

Fuck, seriously? Another goddamned word he had no idea the definition for.

Eijirou must have felt his irritation because he broke it down after a short pause. "The way we cuddled as we slept last night, it's called spooning. You were being the big spoon and I was the little spoon."

"You're bigger though." Katsuki stated back bluntly which drew a snorted laugh out of Eijirou.

"The big spoon doesn't have to be the physically bigger person Katsuki, its just the person in the back holding the person in the front. Like how spoons sit together, y'know."

"Oh," Katsuki huffed as he chewed on the thought. "I like being the big spoon then."

"I like being both, but I never really get to be the small spoon… It was nice, I slept like a log last night." Eijirou said back in a wistful tone of voice.

That was all Katsuki needed, "Turn the fuck over then."

Eijirou flashed a grin as he flipped over. Nearly tangling himself in the weighted blanket when he did. Katsuki adjusted the covers over their shoulders, pulled the soft blanked up to tuck under Eijirou's chin, then moved the man's wild mane off the pillow so he could snuggle in.

They both hummed a sigh while they settled in. Katsuki's arm reaching around the narrowest part of Eijirou's torso, which was still thick as fuck but not enough that Katsuki couldn't get his arm encircled. He even through a leg over Eijirou's hip, locking his ankle under Eijirou's knee.

Eijirou chuckled, squirming a bit with full body shudders as Katsuki breathed down his neck. The reaction just made Katsuki huff more in order to tickle the man further.

Wiggling increased along with bursts of giggles as Eijirou tried to get away without actually leaving Katsuki's arms.

"Ka-ha-," Eijirou gasped between gulping laighter, "-Tsuki st-ah-p! It tickles!"

"I know," Katsuki whispered under Eijirou's ear maliciously.

Eijirou snorted loud in a failed attempt to smoother his laughter. "Please! I- I thought we were gonna sleep!"

Katsuki pressed his lips firmly to the back of Eijirou's neck and hummed low.

It wasn't his fault Eijirou was cute to tease, but yeah, he was exhausted. No where near as bad as he had been for the past years, but enough he wanted to sleep more. Sleep in the safe space Eijirou opened up for him.

Katsuki tightened his grip of the man, pressing as close as physically possible and burying his face half in the pillow so he stopped breathing down Eijirou's neck.

Eijirou settled quickly afterwards, relaxing back into the curves of Katsuki's body. His breath evened out from all the excitement Katsuki had caused and if it wasn't for the occasional lengthy sigh, Katsuki would've thought he'd already fallen asleep.

Katsuki was sure about to drift off. The warmth from Eijirou's skin, and the comforting soap hinted forest fragrance lulling him to sleep.

Then there was a sniffle, and Eijirou's shoulders shook with a stifled sob.

Katsuki was up on an elbow in an instant. Leaning over Eijirou's shoulder and using his other hand to brush away the man's bangs. "What happened!? What's wrong!?"

Fear pricked at the base of Katsuki's skull. Irrational thought telling him he somehow hurt the man.

"No, nothing. It's, well it's stupid, really dumb. Sorry." Eijirou choked out between sniffles and swallowed cries.

Fuck that, he had to make sure, "I hurt you?"

"No! No, you didn't do anything. I'm just stuck in my own head. It's nothing."

Well, that wasn't doing anything to put Katsuki's mind to rest. "What're ya thinking about that hurts so fuckin' much?" He snarled while petting through Eijirou's hair.

Quiet sobs are all that filles the space for a few agonizing heartbeats. Then, blessedly, Eijirou chokes out another sentence.

"Just, this type of um… Intimacy, I've always craved I guess? I've done it for other people, but no ones ever done it for me, y'know? I'm too, /big/, to be coddled and stuff I guess. The last time someone did what you did just now was my mom when I was like seven."

Even in the dark room Katsuki could see how ruddy Eijirou's face was. Its why he wasn't surprised when Eijirou turned his face into the pillow in attempt at hiding. 

"I got older and thought it was 'lame to let my parents snuggle me. By the time I wanted to be coddled again I was bigger then everyone willing to engage. So I was the one to coddle them. Fuck. I just got overwhelmed because you indulged me."

Katsuki hummed. The sound was rough but the only thing he could produce in comfort. He had never been great at words, showing was much easier. Whether that was his anger, or the sudden soft spot for his human. Actions for Katsuki were his language.

So he dipped over Eijirou, nosing his hairline and kissing his temple. He threaded fingers through red strands of slightly damp tangles. He pressed into Eijirou despite it not being all that comfortable with the man's shoulder digging into his breastbone. 

Katsuki even let rumbling cooes roll from his chest, just like the sounds his mom used to make when he was upset.

It took awhile but Eijirou's sobs quelled, turning into tiny whimpers before stuffing completely. 

"Sorry." Eijirou whispered into the new silence.

"No need." Katsuki grunted just as soft. "Feel better?"

Eijirou nodded under Katsuki's palm. "Yes, thank you. I'm glad you're here Katsuki. Seems like you're doing more for me than I'm doing for you."

Katsuki didn't agree. Eijirou had done a fuck ton of things for him! He didn't get a chance to argue though because Eijirou was speaking again.

"Can I turn around?"

"Hm?" Katsuki questioned while backing off a bit.

Eijirou took it as an answer, shuffling until he was facing Katsuki. "This might be better." He mumbled while adjusting. Pulling his pillow down the bed until he was nearly covered by the blankets and could tuck himself under Katsuki's chin.

Katsuki relaxed, getting the arm he was laying on into a bit better position and replacing his other arm and leg over Eijirou. It was odd to see the large man curl himself as small as physically possible to fit against Katsuki's chest, but if it brought him comfort Katsuki would make sure nothing touched him through the night.

Chapter Text

Eijirou was expecting once again to wake first. Which was why he had been surprised when he woke to deft fingers sifting through his dyed crimson locks. He had no handle on the time, his face being buried into Katsuki's chest so deep and covered by blankets did nothing to help since he could not see any light. Let alone the clock sitting on his nightstand. He was tempted to just stay laying in the hybrid’s embrace and let Katsuki pet him. Especially since his face most likely looked awful due to how much he had been crying the night before without washing his face afterwards.

Unfortunately, there were things they still needed to complete. Even if Eijirou could technically cancel the meet up with Izuku and Iida. But no, Eijirou would not do that to Katsuki. He could never be that cruel. 

Which ultimately meant Eijirou had to get up out of his comfortable snoozing place. Damn.

Shifting was what made Katsuki pull back, much to Eijirou's displeasure. He immediately wanted the comforting hand back on his scalp. Getting an elbow under himself was a minor challenge but Eijirou eventually emerged from his bedding cave.

"Morning Katsuki." Eijirou said just before a huge yawn cracked his jaw and left his eyes watering.

Katsuki's nostrils flared as if breathing deep enough would stop his echoing yawn. Which it obviously did nothing of the sort since the hybrid yawned big and long, going as far as to shake it out in the end.

"I hope you weren't up long? You didn't have to stay in bed with me."

Katsuki shifted to back himself away. "Was still tired."

"Oh, that's okay then. Are you hungry? There are the leftovers, or I make pretty decent Omurice? Especially if I use the fried rice from last night."

The meal choice was a rather childish one but highly worth the suggestion. Katsuki's ears immediately perked up at the familiar name. His tail thumped once and his eyes lit up.

"Can you make it spicy?"

Eijirou smiled softly. Warmth built inside his chest as he nodded. "Yeah, no problem! I've got some peppers and seasoning!"

"Then Omurice… Please."

The way Katsuki's bottom lip jutted out ever so slightly had Eijirou leaning forward to plant a tender kiss on the hybrid's forehead. Eijirou didn't even register his own action until Katsuki was slapping a palm over the kissed spot while his eyes widened to saucers. Maybe that was too much. Eijirou was still trying so hard not to push Katsuki's boundaries, to let the hybrid act first if at all. It proved to be exceedingly difficult when Eijirou was faced with such adorable things and had a shameful craving for any sort of intimacy.

Just because Katsuki was giving some of said intimacy did not mean he was ready to take certain things from Eijirou. And Eijirou went ahead and KISSED him! The action may have been innocently bestowed on the forehead, but still! It was a push Katsuki obviously was not prepared for.

"Omurice! Coming right up!" Eijirou said in a panic as he slid backwards and nearly tumbled off the bed. "I'll look to see if I've got any hot sauce just in case I don't make it spicy enough. Join me when you're ready!"

Eijirou felt Katsuki's eyes track him all the way out the bedroom door. He was panicking a bit as shaking hands grabbed everything he needed from the fridge and cupboards. He even dropped the frying pan and oil bottle on the floor.

Eijirou about jumped out of his skin when hands grabbed the leftover container from him before that too could make a journey to the kitchen floor.

"M'not that hungry, calm the fuck down." Katsuki grunted.

The laugh that grated out of Eijirou's dry throat was pathetic. "Sorry, sorry. I uh, don't know what came over me dude. I just…"

Katsuki let out a low growl to stop Eijirou rambling, or at least that's what it had felt like. "It's whatever. 'M not that fragile, kisses are… Nice, I guess." He shrugged halfheartedly at the end which did little to assuage Eijirou's worries.

"I know you aren't fragile Katsuki, you're probably the strongest dude I know. But it's okay to not be okay, y'know." Eijirou waved a hand around as if it would snatch an example right out of the air, and his own breakdown the night prior was the first thing he thought of. "Like me, last night I was definitely hurting. It helped, you being there and comforting me. I really appreciate what you did, Katsuki. I'm known as the sturdy hero, but that doesn't mean I'm invulnerable, I need help too."

Katsuki stared at him, brows pulling tighter together the longer Eijirou spoke and when he was finished Katsuki only nodded slowly. Then stooped to pick the items Eijirou dropped off the tiles.

"Thanks."

"Yeah…" Katsuki shrugged, placed the oil and pan on the stove, and turned out of the kitchen.

Eijirou watched him go to the kotatsu and slide under one side. "The remote to the TV is right there, it's set up to a few different streaming services if you want to watch something. Oh! You can add your own profile to them too!"

Katsuki leaned back until his head tipped far enough he could glare at Eijirou upside-down. Oh, shit, communication barrier again? Did Katsuki know how to navigate streaming services? Did he know how to even work a TV!?

A few seconds ticked by while Katsuki glared and Eijirou gaped like a fish since his mouth didn't seem to want to form actual words. Then Katsuki snapped back to an upright position and snatched the remote from the corner. The TV flickered on.

"Just ask if you need assistance." Eijirou called weakly.

Katsuki grunted, Eijirou turned back to prepping breakfast.

Halfway through, Eijirou heard the preview sounds coming from a myriad of different movies and shows as Katsuki switched through his options.

By the time Eijirou had plated the Omurice, Katsuki was settled into the middle of what looked like the first episode of a western take on an anime.

Eijirou placed Katsuki's plate in front of him. "One spicy Omurice!"

Apparently food was much more important than what Katsuki had decided to watch. The show was all but forgotten as Katsuki turned his attention fully on his plate and dug into it vigorously. Eijirou swore the hybrid even had sparkles in his eyes because of how excited he was for the meal.

Not knowing how to bring up their plans for the rest of the day caused breakfast to lull in an unsettling silence. At least Eijirou thought it was unsettling, Katsuki seemed not to notice as he all but inhaled his Omurice.

Katsuki finished and lounged back in his seat. His attention quickly turned back to the show.

Eijirou was a little slower to finish up, still feeling a bit embarrassed about how he acted when Katsuki talked with him in the kitchen. He wasn't usually so jumpy, but it felt like forever ago that he had opened up to someone on such a personal level. Hell, Eijirou thought maybe he never had, which couldn't have helped any of his relationships.

Why did communication have to be so difficult?

Instead of groaning and burying his face in his arms like he wished to, Eijirou gathered the dishes off the table and brought them to the sink. 'Clean as you go' his mom always told him, it was a helpful habit when he struck out on his own keeping his apartment tidy instead of a disaster like some of his friends' places ended up.

Eijirou was focused on rinsing the plates when Katsuki made the smallest sound of distress Eijirou had ever heard. He turned to look so fast his entire spine cracked only to see Katsuki lounging in an obtuse angle against the back of his chair. His shirt was hiked up and he was poking at his stomach with his forefinger.

The sight would have been something to laugh over if not for the noise and the look of abject horror on Katsuki's face.

"Are you alright Katsuki? Are you feeling sick?" Eijirou asked as he scrambled to get to Katsuki's side in case the hybrid suddenly upchucked.

Katsuki's wide crimson gaze locked onto Eijirou as he neared. "I-I think I'm diseased!"

Eijirou skidded on his knees as he dropped beside Katsuki. "Why!? What's wrong?"

"My tummy is sticking out!" Katsuki said in the utmost serious tone Eijirou really did fall over at the let down.

Eijirou swallowed a few times before trying to usher in clarification. "Your… Tummy is sticking out?"

"Yes! Am I dying?"

"Wh-at!?" Eijirou barked out a half laugh. He honestly couldn't tell if Katsuki was fucking with him or not.

"Look at it!!" Katsuki growled as the look on his face started melting into ire.

Okay, no joke. Katsuki actually thought he was sick.

Eijirou took a deep breath and tried to put on a serious expression. Then he did look.

At first glance, nothing was different. However, as Eijirou watched Katsuki breathe he started to see what Katsuki was talking about.

The hybrid was still muscle and bone but there was a very miniscule bump that came after a filling meal.

"Does it hurt?" Eijirou asked softly.

"No, should it?"

"Definitely not. You aren't dying Katsuki, you are just well fed. People are supposed to have a healthy layer of fat, I sure as hell do."

Katsuki narrowed his eyes to that. He even gave Eijirou a critical once over.

Eijirou laughed at the skepticism. "Really, I have padding over my muscles, only insane bodybuilders have no cushion. It can become unhealthy, like you. You need more meat on your bones Katsu. See, look." Eijirou finished by pulling the hem of his own shirt up and poking his belly to show the amount of give it had.

Of course Katsuki took that as an invitation to sink his own fingers into Eijirou's waist. He unconsciously flexed and Katsuki's brows jumped. He kneaded at the flesh with all the seriousness of solving a complicated puzzle.

Eijirou was content to let him explore for Katsuki's peace of mind. At least he was until Katsuki's fingers dipped below his waistband which sent sparks down Eijirou's lower spine.

"Woah buddy!" Eijirou exclaimed while stilling Katsuki's wandering hands by the wrists.

"What? M'just checking."

"Yeah, I get that and it's okay to touch me…" Eijirou released one of Katsuki's wrists so he could gesture at his stomach and chest. "Lower is private, you can't just touch a guy there. Actually you shouldn't really touch anyone anywhere unless you ask first."

Katsuki's eyes narrowed as he studied Eijirou's face. "That's a practiced rule?"

Eijirou's heart sank as he remembered the illegal fighting ring had breeding rooms hidden in the bowels of their warehouse. "For the most part, yes, it is a practiced rule. Good people don't go touching others unless they are given consent prior to the contact." Eijirou paused briefly to gain courage. "Were– Did they touch you?"

"They fuckin' tried." Katsuki sneered. "After biting a couple dozen fingers off and exploding a few limbs they stopped trying."

Eijirou closed his eyes and took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. Even without Katsuki knowing the difference between bad sexually abusive touching and just plain physical violence but it sounded like they weren't able to do either. Other than forcing Katsuki and the rest of the Hybrids to fight for their lives.

"That's good. I just want you to know that it isn't okay for anyone to touch you if you don't want them to. I've been pretty physically affectionate with you but if anything makes you uncomfortable I want to know right away. That goes for everyone else too. Okay?"

Katsuki nodded slowly in agreement. "Kay, but…" the pause came with pink tinged cheeks. "I– like your 'affection' or whatever… You don't gotta ask or anything. You can touch me wherever."

Eijirou chuckled, the movement causing Katsuki's fingers to spasm where they were still pressed to Eijirou's warm flesh. "I think you mean 'whenever’.”

"Nope." Katsuki's feral grin spread maniacally on his lips. "I mean I don't care where you touch."

There was no way Katsuki had meant anything sexual. How could he? The hybrid didn't even know what a rut was. Still, the inuwindo was there regardless of intention. Eijirou's face felt like it was on fire and he was sure the blush was flushing all the way down to his collarbone.

Likely the turn of phrase just meant Katsuki trusted Eijirou enough to know he would not intentionally make the hybrid uncomfortable. Which was one hundred percent true. Eijirou would never do anything he knew would upset Katsuki. 

"That's, um, generous of you Katsuki." Eijirou stuttered out.

"M'not lying!" Katsuki stated haughty. His palms started to rapidly heat up where they remained on Eijirou's waist. 

Eijirou had to fight back a groan at the sensation, almost tempted to not harden. However, doing so would leave provocative handprints peeking out under his waistband fully visible in his hero suit. "I, I didn't think you were lying. Promise. I just don't think you fully understand the gravity of a statement like that."

"Words don't have mass." Katsuki rebutted.

Eijirou snorted, "That was not literal Katsuki. I just meant you don't know what else that statement can mean."

Confusion overtook Katsuki's features. "Haa!? What the fuck else could it mean!?"

"Well, if you read your Rut books I'm pretty sure you are intelligent enough to put two and two together." Eijirou teased, risking to release one of Katsuki's wrists so he could tousle the hybrid's blonde fluffy hair.

"Four." Katsuki answered. Then grinned like a maniac as he slid both trapped and untrapped hands up Eijirou's abs and around his middle so he could fall forward into an awkward hug. "Fine. I'll read the fuckin' stupid ass baby books."

"Good. Thank you Katsuki." Eijirou said as he released Katsuki's other wrist and hugged him back. He kind of hoped the Rut books would also touch on attraction so he didn't have to have a sexual attraction and/or romance conversation. He might really have to get someone else to explain it since Eijirou's experiences in that department were so full of failure. For the present moment Eijirou would just shift the topic. "So, did this realize your tummy worries?"

"M'eah, it's kinda cool or whatever that you can get so hard and indestructible but also be really soft to touch. It's … Nice." Katsuki murmured the last part into where his face was pressed.

Eijirou's blush doubled down. "Awe, thanks bud! Not to ruin the moment or anything but you did request to visit Izuku…"

Katsuki growled into Eijirou's shirt.

"Did you still want to? Or…?"

"No… but the dumb bunny will an' that other hero probably told him we were gonna visit today so he'll cry forever if I don' show."

"Sweet! I'll call Iida to tell him we are getting ready to go!"