Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

   Toshinori had been thinking a lot lately. Honestly, he had been thinking since his fight with All For One. To say he had gotten lucky would be an understatement. The great evil had been confirmed dead while he himself had been fighting for his life. Had it not been for an excellent team of surgeons, Shuzenji herself, and an honorable dying man, he might not be here. 

   Kowase Aiko had been fatally injured in the panic that had been a result of the battle. With his dying breath, he begged the doctors to not let his death be in vain. In addition to his left lung and stomach going to the hero, the rest of his internal organs had saved over a dozen other people.

   He was a true hero, but tragically, he had no family and had been alone in this world. Because of this, his resting place was a less than well maintained cemetery run by the local government for those who were poor or who had no family. So, Toshinori took it upon himself to visit him once a month on a Sunday to clean his grave, light an incense and leave flowers. He had also posted anonymously about his selfless actions.

   So even if it was by strangers, Aiko was loved and wouldn't be forgotten any time soon.

   This day though, was different. As he was going through the usual routine he noticed a rough looking child at a grave in the far corner. (He vaguely recalled the grave always being clean with freshly picked flowers.) When he looked closer as he got up to leave, he noticed exactly how bad of shape the child was in.

   Firstly, he was very, /very/ small and appeared rather malnourished. His dark hair looked very unkempt with little curls here and there. The cloths he was wearing, a school uniform from the looks, were oversized with several patches and burn marks. His arms, neck and face bore lacerations, bruises and burns as well. The poor child was pale, shivering, and drenched.

   Toshinori was no fool. He recognized fairly quickly that the child must have been an orphan and was in a very difficult situation. He decided to move closer to the boy, but before he could make himself known, he noticed he was talking and crying. He felt bad for eavesdropping, but part of a hero's job was to stick your nose in business that wasn't yours. 

   Every word he heard was breaking his heart. 

   “I'm sorry Mama, I'm so sorry. I've tried… you're all I had left… dad left us, everyone punished you, they hate me… I wish… I'd never been born… maybe you'd be alive and happy. You would've had money for doctor's. “

   The boy gasped out another sob. “ It's been 7 years Mama. I miss you so much… you're the only one who ever loved me… I'm sorry I never told you. I didn't want you to be sad that Kacchan had changed after… that day…the day they diagnosed me. He didn't want me as a friend. He… he said /no one/ could ever be a hero without a quirk… that I'm a stupid, worthless /null/… that a quirkless freak needs to know his place.” 

   He continued to sob, and the hero could feel his heart breaking more for this child. “I'm … I'm sorry… I gave up on my dream. I don't want to be a hero anymore… I don't know how I /can/. Kacchan… I told him I didn't want to be a hero anymore… that I'd just get into the support course or gen ed… but he said… he said I should just do everyone a favor and to… to take a swan dive off the roof and pray for a quirk in my next life.”

   Toshinori's body jerked back as if he'd been hit, his watery eyes widened in shock. The story had been horrifying already. An orphaned child who was bullied relentlessly for something just so stupid. A boy who's obviously had quirks just used on him and he's also being suicide baited? By a supposed friend no less?

   “I… I can't do it anymore Mama… orphanages won't take me, no one will foster me, and the social worker that pays for my apartment stopped bringing food… I've only been able to eat at school… and that's only if no one ruins it or it's stolen. I'm so hungry… everything hurts so bad Mama… I… I think… Kacchan was right…”

  The tears finally flowed and he had to resist just running and scooping the small child up. “Dear boy, please, don't give up.”

   The child spun around to face him, green emeralds meeting piercing blue. The boy's eyes widened in recognition before they were covered by his hair as he bowed low. “All might, sir! I am so sorry to be a burden. I didn't mean to bother you. Forgive me please… I”

   “You're not a burden, nor are you bothering me. I apologize for listening, but everything you've been told or believe about yourself is so, so wrong. All life is precious and deserves to be celebrated and cherished. It hurts me badly to hear what you have suffered.”

   The boy stood there in shock, still shivering from being drenched and cold. It was nearing fall now, and he began to worry in earnest that the child on top of everything could become severely ill. “Please, let me help you. Let me prove to you that you can have a good life. My partner and I are both heroes, and we'd gladly take you in.” He sent a mental apology to Shouta for not talking with him first, but he knew he would agree. For such a stern man, he could be a big softie.

   Still not looking up, he timidly spoke. “Do… do you really mean that? I… I'm quirkless…”

   Toshinori spoke without hesitation. “Yes. My partner is an underground hero who works with quirkless heros and analysts. He and I care nothing about something so trivial. I know you might not believe me, but I ask that you give us a chance. Please, allow us to give you the life and love you deserve.” 

   The boy broke down into sobs again, his head nodding in affirmation and soft words of pleas for help. When strong arms wrapped around him, he collapsed into the hero's hold. “Please… I… I'm scared… everything hurts so much … I'm so… so tired …”

   "There, there my boy. Everything will be alright now. Why? Because I am here."

Chapter Text

   Hours later, Toshinori was at U.A’s private hospital Nedzu had built when he took over. He was in a chair next to, who he now knows to be, Midoriya Izuku. He was watching the small boy, while holding one of his hands, with a grim face. His usual relaxed, almost cheerful expression, buried by the knowledge he and Nedzu uncovered.

   When he was on his way to the school, he texted the man (animal?) and asked him to alert Shuzenji. They were both at the front gates waiting with a couple of med bots and a stretcher. While Recovery Girl took the med bots and the child,who had fallen asleep, Toshinori went with the principal.

   What they discovered was, actually, rather confusing. Considering his quirkless status, they expected blatant discrimination, but none was found. At least, not easily. It was, however, obvious that the child was at least ignored. All the way from birth to age 4 his file was well filled out. After his diagnosis, it's like he disappeared. 

   “I fear my friend, we may not get any real answers until Izu-chan wakes up.” Nedzu said as he read through the files with the tall blonde. 

   “Unfortunately you may be right sir. I just don't want to put any more stress on the child. I'm honestly not looking forward to what granny has to say about his condition. I don't even think she'll be able to heal him properly because of how small he is.”

   “I completely agree. For a 14 year old, and someone who should be looking toward high school he is extremely small. I will be contacting Inui about therapy, as well as Rasshu to discuss dietary plans.”

   A knock at the door caught their attention and Nedzu pressed a button to open it. “Ah, Shuzenji, we were just discussing plans for helping Izu-chan. How is he faring?”

   The older heroine closed the door behind her and walked towards the desk with a file in hand. “All things considered, he's doing well enough. He is unfortunately far too underdeveloped and malnourished for me to use my quirk. So, he'll be staying in the infirmary for a little while. If at all possible Toshi, will you consider staying with the boy? I can have another bed put in his room with him for you.”

   “Consider it done. I already planned on enacting my emergency foster rights. I feel bad for not asking Shouta first, but I don't want to risk him going back.”

   Shuzenji snorted derisively. “Please. I will bet my entire paycheck this month, once he hears what happened and you do not tell him you already used your emergency foster license, he will do it himself. He may be scary to his students, but we all know how much of a softie he is.”

   The men smiled, but said nothing to the contrary. The old healer continued in a serious tone. “Nedzu, I don't care how much it costs, how many favors you need to call in, that boy has suffered horribly and I want to see justice served harsh and fast.” She placed the folder on the table. “ Those are photos and X-rays I had taken. He is covered in scars of varying ages and has several wrongly healed fractures. Blessedly, none of the injuries appear self-inflicted.”

   Toshinori barely looked through half before scrambling for the trash. Nedzu was eerily quiet, but the hard look in his eyes said everything. The blonde rinsed his mouth out with water before speaking. “Name a price Nedzu, and I'll donate it. I have more than I could spend in several lifetimes.”

   “We'll see. For now, go sit with the lil kit. I'm handling this personally. Please, if you'll excuse me you two.” 

   Taking the dismissal to heart, they both left. 

   Now he was intently watching his new ward, planning how to arrange the guest room into the perfect room for him. Shuzenji said he'd be asleep until the morning, but he secretly wished he'd wake up so he could talk with him. About hobbies, interests, favorite food, favorite anything really. He just wanted to know how to make his boy happy. 

   But, it was already nearing 7pm, so he sighed and pulled out his phone to text Shouta, who's alarm to wake up for patrol would be going off any time now. Normally, he'd turn it off himself and gently wake his partner with a kiss and whisper ‘time to get up darling’.

   |Hi love. I apologize for not being home. I am safe. I'm in the U.A. Infirmary. I saved a child today. It's a long story, and I apologize again because I know you'll be worried. Granny asked me to stay with him. He's an orphan and I've used my emergency foster licence to protect him. I love you.|

   While waiting for a response, he busied himself with gently running his hand through the, now green and clean, curls. Izuku keened in his sleep, nuzzling into the large hand that easily cradled his head. 

   “Don't worry little one. We'll protect you.”

Chapter Text

The ding of a text notification was the first thing that brought awareness to a certain sleepy ravenette. The second was his alarm clock blaring in his ear. He groaned, frustrated and somewhat worried as he hasn't had to get his own alarm for nearly the entire 4 years he and Toshinori had been together.

He blindly threw his hand out to smack at the table in an attempt to at least hit the snooze button, cursing loudly when he knocked his phone over before finally hitting the clock. Still barely awake, he slid to the floor and grabbed his phone from where it had fallen under their bed. He hoped nothing had happened to his love.

A contented hum left him when he read the message from his partner. He wasn't as worried anymore, but deeply frustrated at the lack of information on what was apparently their new child. It was too soon to really try conversing fully, he still needed coffee damnit. So he just sent a single question.

|How bad?|

Simple and to the point. Now to make coffee while he waits. He smiles as the pot brews his favorite coffee, remembering the first time Toshinori had bought it for him. They had grown close over the months that he helped him study for his teaching license. He was a little annoyed at first. The blonde oaf kept hounding him about eating better. He'd stock his fridge without permission, bring lunches every day, and to this day he has no clue how that man figured out how to get into his apartment when he wasn't home.

Strangely, he didn't mind too much. He felt better than he had in years. Being so focused on his work, he'd neglected himself badly. When Toshinori had presented him with an entire bag of extremely expensive coffee that he loved as a thank you when he passed his teaching exam, he realized he didn't want it to end. So, he asked him out.

Toshinori had blushed and sputtered a surprised yes, followed by an admittance that he had been attracted to him but thought it was one-sided. Oblivious buffoon is what he called him, which just earned him a nervous laugh. He didn't let him be nervous too much longer though. They shared their first kiss.

A new notification drew him from his thoughts.

|My sweet Shouta, you still have patrol. I may be a daylight hero, but I'm not ignorant to the dark things you see as an underground hero. I promise everything is alright, and we'll talk tomorrow before you go to class.|

Of course his overly protective and ridiculously sweet partner would prioritize his mental health over his own.

|Yes, it is true I see quite a bit in my work, but that's what makes me well equipped to handle it. I'm worried about you since you rarely see things such as hurt children. I'm sure you're having a hard time.|

|I won't lie, you're entirely correct. It is quite a difficult case and will most definitely get even more complicated. I'll give you a few details, but not too much. I know you, and I know you're good at research. It's one thing that makes you great as a hero and a teacher|

Shouta huffed out a laugh at how accurate his partner could really read him. ‘I'm going to marry this man for sure’

|You know me so well blonde oaf|

|Someone hasn't drunk their morning coffee yet. My frumpy grumpy kitty|

|See? You know me. Now, details about our son. And YES we're keeping him. I know you didn't ask, and it hasn't been even a week since the adoption and marriage talks started, but what are the odds a child in need of love just falls into our laps?|

|Careful Shou-chan, your soft side is showing. What will Zashi-kun and Nem-chan say?|

|Not a damn thing if they want my silence ৻( •̀ ᗜ •́ ৻)|

|(O _ O) I don't want to know. In any case, His name is Izuku (no you will not get a description or family name I know how smart you are) I was visiting Aiko and found him at a grave crying. His housing situation was less than ideal because of his quirk status (again, no I will not tell you.)|

Shouta let out a cackle worthy of the Rat God himself. He loved how sassy Toshi could be with him, and how the world would never know because it was just for him.

|Fine. But can I let Zashi and Nem know? They're our best friends and if we need help I want to be able to go to them.|

|Of course you can kitten! I'd never ask you not to reach out for help if you feel you need it. Now, make your breakfast, not just a jelly pouch and toast (I will know if that's all you eat -_-’’) and be careful on patrol. When you're done and you want a nap before your class starts, we're in the family section of the hospital, room 1 and there's already an extra bed in here so you don't need your sleeping bag. I love You Shou-chan.|

∧＿∧ 　+ —̳͟͞͞💗
( •‿• )つ —̳͟͞͞ 💗 —̳͟͞͞💗 +
(つ　 < —̳͟͞͞💗
｜　 _つ + —̳͟͞͞💗 —̳͟͞͞💗 ˚
`し´

He snorted at the cat love attack emoji art. ‘Yeah, I'm getting rings.’ He begins to screen shot the conversation to share with their friends with the caption of |here are mine and Toshi's ring sizes. I want his white and gold and mine black and gold. I'll pay you back I just need them to be a surprise.|

Afterwards, as per his overprotective boyfriends instructions, he begins cooking breakfast while waiting for what would surely be an overreacted response from their friends. He's know them since highschool, it should be hilarious.

He was not disappointed. Nemuri messaged with a picture of Hizashi 'passed out', very dramatically (arm over the eyes and everything) and saying |... What silence are we buying by not sharing all of this|

|Valentine's Day. You know which one. Do not test me|

|... Heard. It's nice to know you trust us though.|

|But I'm black mailing the two of you|

|Ah, what's a lil blackmail between old friends? Besides, we know you're a hard ass still. You're just and adorable frumpy grumpy kitty 😹|

|Christmas senior year of highschool.|

|😱 You wouldn't dare|

|I have more. Now, while I'm on patrol, if you have time, I need you to go to the 24hr superstore and get several things. Mainly pillows, blankets (weighted and regular) towels, extra toothbrushes, wash cloths and basic groceries like milk, eggs, bread, rice. Nothing too specific yet until I meet the kid and get details on things he may prefer. I just want to make sure we're prepared. Even if the kid doesn't come home this week, I plan on bringing in home cooked lunches and trying to slowly get him acclimated.|

|Understandable. Child abuse cases are the absolute worst. Zashi-kun doesn't have to do a show tonight so we'll grab our spare key and go together. I make no promises on stuffed animals. He is the first nephew and you know he's gonna be excited. I am too of course, but... you know him. 😅|

|Unfortunately.|

|Oh don't be that way kitten 😁|

|Halloween the year Toshi got his teaching license|

|Fburogbsgytbej!!!!! How the fuck do you know all of these?!|

|I'd be a terrible hero if I revealed all my secrets.|

|You scare me 😰|

|As I should. Thanks for your help. We'll talk more tomorrow after school in the teachers lounge. Goodnight.|

|Goodnight, you damn demon.|

Chapter Text

Of course Hizashi and Nemuri did the shopping that was asked. They'd have done it without the hypothetical black mail. He also wasn't surprised to see the picture of a bean bag seized teddy bear in the guest room that would be the kids room. 

He didn't have any objections though. 

After patrol, Shouta definitely took the offer of a bed to nap in. He absolutely loved his sleeping bag, Hizashi had bought it for him when they first started teaching and he kept finding him sleeping in strange places, but he had been known to crash in a guest bed in Shuzenji’s office with a few Advil and muscle cream.

Getting older sucked.

He quietly opened the door to possibly the most adorable sight. Both of the hospital beds had been put beside each other, the separating rails lowered, and locked together. (They've had to do this in the past for some of the larger students with mutation quirks) Toshinori was laid in his side with a arm outstretched to cradle the sleeping boys head. The boy was laying on his back with his face turned towards his palm.

He teared up slightly at the sight of the child, who looked like a miniature green version of his late friend Oboro. The bruising and cuts hit hard, reminding him of the day his friend died. 

But, he refused to dwell on it. Oboro wouldn't want that. So, he took a quick picture (or a few) and walked around to find that Toshinori had left a decent enough space for him. So, he put in an ear bud and set his phone alarm before curling up to be the ‘big’ spoon.

-🌻-

“Shou-chan, my love, time to get up. I went to see Rasshu and brought breakfast for us”

“Mmmm, that's a much better way to wake up.”

Toshinori had the audacity to chuckle. “I am sorry my grumpy kitty. I brought coffee made from the hidden stash in your office. Don't sit up too fast. It seems Izuku it a cuddle bug I've only been gone 20 minutes and he's glued to your side.”

Sure enough, he opened his eyes to see whisps of green curls in the edge of his vision and he could feel little puffs of breath against his neck. “I want whatever pictures you took sent to me. I have some from last night for you too.” 

“I figured as much.” He said teasingly as he helped him sit up. “You're lucky Granny has him on wireless monitors or things would be much more complicated.” 

Shouta just grunted in agreement and reached for his coffee. “I love you.”

“Me or the coffee?”

“Both. Now, too early for sass. Let's wake the lil bush up and get him fed.”

“I'll wake him. Here's your pork, eggs, and fried rice.” The older hero gently lifted the child away so Shouta could eat. “Izuku, sweetie, are you ready for some soup and rice?”

“Mmf…” 

He cooed softly at him. “I know you're tired my boy, but you need to eat. I have someone who wants to meet you too.”

Shouta watched intently as emerald green eyes slowly cracked open. “You got me food?”

“Well of course. I promised me and my partner would take good care of you. He's right next to us and would love to officially meet you.”

When those tired little orbs looked to him, they glittered with recognition. “You're underground pro hero Eraserhead! I remember getting lucky enough to see grainy security footage of your fight with that fog villain who was robbing that 24hr convenience store. I love analyzing quirks and I had been staying up late watching hero tube on my Mama's old computer! I have so many theories and questions!”

The tired man was stunned and a little bewildered. Again with the audacity of his partner who just laughed. Like full on All Might level laughed. 

“Oh Shou, your face is beautiful. I wish I had my phone in hand.” Said phone dinged with a notification. He stopped laughing for a moment as he dug it out and read it with the other two watching. Only, he went back to laughing even harder.

Izuku had sat on the bed eating during their interaction, after Shouta had grabbed his food for him. “What's so funny now?” He grumbled while watching the boy eat.

Toshinori just handed him his phone. It was a message from Nedzu with stills from the security camera in their room, zoomed in on his face. 

|I'm looking forward to saving /every/ precious moment with you and your new child.＼ʕ •ᴥ•ʔ／|

“Ah…”

“Are you okay Shouta-san? I'm sorry if I embarrassed you. I know I can be a little creepy…”

“No, no Izuku. You're not creepy at all 

 I don't know who said that but they're idiots. You're obviously very smart. No one has ever recognized me outside of other heroes. And even then, some of them don't recognize me.”

“... Do you really mean that?”

“Of course I do. Look, I know you must have had it pretty hard lately, but we're here to help whenever you need it. Right now, let's focus on getting you better and out of the hospital. The rest can come later.”

To the adults' utter horror, he started crying. They looked at each other, unsure what to do. Shouta settled for grabbing the boy's half eaten food and putting it to the side with his untouched tray while Toshinori set his own half eaten plate down and picked Izuku up.

“There now, my boy. It'll be okay.” Toshinori said as he rubbed the boy's back.

Shouta maneuvered himself to sit next to Toshinori in a way he could wrap his arms around them. “He's right, kid. We're not going anywhere. I hope you like stuffies too because our coworkers are like family and you're the first child. You're going to get sooooo many presents.”

They sighed in relief when he let out a wet laugh. “O-’hic’-okay. ‘hic’ So-’hic’-sorry.”

Shouta handed him a juice box Toshinori had brought with breakfast and helped him get his hiccups under control. “Don't apologize for something that isn't your fault.”

“... But… everyone always says it's my fault…”

Toshinori looks apologetically to Shouta before speaking. “Izuku… they're wrong. I know it doesn't seem like it, but they are. You being born quirkless doesn't mean you should bear the blame for everything. What /they/ did was /their/ choice and /not yours/. You didn't ask to be quirkless. And even so, hurting someone for something so trivial and non-issue as not having a quirk is absolute madness.”

The underground hero was speechless, but he could feel rage boiling in his gut. He knew the statistics. He'd even uncovered trafficking rings that sold people with mutations, weak quirks or no quirk's many times. No wonder this poor child was in the condition he was in. He finally found his voice though and spoke up. 

“Izuku… do you think I'm a villain?”

“Wha? No! You're the coolest.”

“I'm glad you think so. But growing up, no one said anything like that. My own parents threw me in an orphanage so quickly you could see dust clouds. I'm not the only one either. I know many with mutant, destructive, or what some call ‘villainous’ quirk's that had the same done to them. Do you think it's our fault?”

“No sir…”

“Then it's not your fault either. Can. You say that for me?”

“It's not my fault…”

“Good. Now we just need to help you believe that. Let's get you through middle school and we'll look into having you enrolled here so you can get the best education. I know we have an excellent support course with classes on analytics.”

“That sounds awesome! But… do I have to go back to Aldera?”

“Absolutely not. Nedzu is already working on shutting them down.” Toshinori said angrily. “Since you only have 10 months of school left before coming to U.A., and I'll be teaching next year, I'm putting in for my official retirement and homeschooling you. You'll come here and sit with Nedzu or another teacher for your official tests.”

Again, Shouta felt boiling rage build up. Izuku was 14 and that small. ‘Dear Kami if Nedzu doesn't destroy everyone that ever hurt this baby, I will.’

Outwardly, he spoke as calm as possible. “That sounds wonderful actually. Besides, we need to focus on getting you up to full meals and better health.”

“Well, we should set an example then love! Let's all finish breakfast together.”

Shoutas’ eye twitched at his blatant sass that he poorly disguised with his hero personified exuberance. He heard his partners phone ping again, which he still had, so he looked, only to see a new message from Nedzu. A picture of them holding each other, and one of his current expression. 

|Toshi-kun is correct Shou-kun. Please be kind to yourself as well. You know how I worry about your eating habits. ʕ´•ᴥ•`ʔ|

Wait a damn minute. “Is Nedzu how you figured out how to get into my apartment when I was tutoring you on your teacher's license?!”

“Huh? I thought you knew he gave me a spare key… oh dear, I'm so sorry Shouta…”

Well shit he made his soon to be husband sad. “It's fine, I swear love. I just… I seriously had no clue until now that the Rat God had given you a key …”

Another ding. |Remember, in a world where no one expects the Spanish Inquisition, always expect the Spanish Inquisition. ᕦʕ •ᴥ•ʔᕤ|

Shouta just gave Toshinori his phone back, gave a confused Izuku his food back, and started eating his breakfast. He smiled when his loving oaf of a partner just started laughing again before eating his own food. 

‘We can do this.’ He heard another ding, followed by an awe and Toshis’ phone held in front of his face. Nedzu sent a picture of them eating together, as well as a link to a very nice framing store.

“I think we should also look into getting a cat. I know you love them babe. Izuku, do you like cats?”

“Uh-huh! Can we really get get a cat? I've always loved pets and cats are so cool!”

‘yeah, we can /definitely/ do this.”

Chapter Text

“Okay my boy, Shouta will be back around 4. I have some business at my agency to finish up now that I'm retiring. Nedzu said he's coming to keep you company soon. Are those enough notebooks, pens, pencils, and color pencils?”

After Shouta left, Izuku had asked about supplies for writing analytical notes and drawing. Toshinori went straight to the staff room closet and got a box full. The sheer joy in those beautiful green eyes of his was worth it.

“Thank you so much Toshinori-san! Are you sure it isn't too much?”

“Not at all! I make sure to donate to the school, and have enough money to fund everything for U.A. for several lifetimes. I could literally give you hundreds of thousands of those boxes full and still have enough money to fund the school for at least a few lifetimes. Are you sure that's enough for you to keep you happy? I could stay and just go to Might Tower tomorrow.”

“Oh! No! I'll be fine, I promise! It just… seems like so much. This is nearly three times the amount I had before they were damaged beyond repair…” Izuku trailed off, looking sadly at the notebooks. 

“Izuku?” Toshinori knelt next to the bed and gently placed a hand on the boy's shoulder. “Do you wish to talk about it? I don't have to leave now.”

“I'm just disappointed… I worked hard on my notebooks. Even if it felt more like a hobby and the others called me creepy… I put a lot of time into them…”

“I see. I think I understand. I don't tell many people this, but I'm a rare late bloomer. I originally wanted to be a quirkless hero, but in my training, I had met a specific activation requirement. I was upset that my planning got completely thrown out the window, but I was happy because it meant I could save more people. So, while it's okay to be sad, look at it this way, now you have even better resources. I'll even see if we can get you a tablet to borrow.” He felt bad for lying about his quirk, but he wasn't sure how to approach it, and decided he'd go over it with Shouta. 

“I understand. Thank you… it means a lot to hear that from you. I wish I had met you before. It might not have changed anything, and I might still have given up on being a hero, but I think I would have felt much better about it.”

“That's a very thoughtful way of looking at it, Izu-chan. For whatever it's worth, I think you would still be a great hero, but only if you think it would really make you happy. There are other ways to help people. Analysts are extremely great for hero's! I have a whole team of them that helped me take down villains in the best possible way with as little collateral damage as possible. They've saved just as many, if not more people than I have.”

Izuku’s smile was one that could rival Toshinori himself. “Thank you, I really do appreciate your words. I'll be okay here Toshinori-san. See you tonight!”

Satisfied that Izuku was being honest, Toshinori gave him a hug and a peck on the top of his head before leaving. He grinned brightly at his guardian, then proceeded to dig out a notebook with the pencils and color pencils. Right now, he had the urge to draw. Despite his complicated feelings about his analysis notes, he /knew/ he loved to draw and wasn't half bad. Before his mother died, he'd even posted some pictures online anonymously.

He decided to start with Shouta. He really couldn't believe how fortunate he was to meet Eraserhead himself and had done his best to observe the man before he left for class. He had even shown him his goggles that he had hidden in his capture scarf! (He giggled when Toshinori had lightly scolded him for sleeping in his full hero costume, but they just playfully argued. They were grinning and sassing each other with no real heat to it.)

After making a basic pose (Shouta standing with his feet slightly spread, a small slouch he noticed he had, and wearing his usual jumpsuit with his capture scarf and yellow goggles on his head like a headband), he felt the usual urge to take notes. He had numbers next to his scarf, goggles, and a hair tuft with corresponding notes.

1. Hair. Why does it float? Does his quirk have a mental aspect that creates a psychic field or is it physical like a magnetic field that causes this?
2. Capture scarf. What is it made of? Is it just a high fiber fabric that is extra strong? Or, is it a flexible metal/fabric combination that is aided by his quirk? If the latter is so, does that mean his quirk does have a magnetic field?
3. Goggles. Seems rather straightforward. Most likely made to hide and protect his eyes, but is there another function? 

He was contemplating why Shouta needed the goggles specifically. The video he had seen all those years ago didn't show his face too well, he'd barely noticed the yellow goggles in the video. A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts and he got excited. Nedzu was here!

“Come in!”

“Hello there little one! Am I a bear, a mouse, a dog? It doesn't matter! I'm the principal of U.A.! And with me, I have the lovely head of the U.A. hospital, our school nurse, Recovery Girl!”

The older woman snorts and pats the man on the head as she walks to Izuku. “It's so good to finally meet you officially Izuku my dear. You can just call me Granny, everyone else does.”

Izuku begins to excitedly ramble about her years of hero service and how amazing she is while she looks over his readings on the medical tablet attached to the wall. “Awe, you're such a sweetie pie, you are. Thank you for your praise. Now, while your readings look good, I have some serious concerns about your weight and development. I'm not asking you to recount your trauma, you've been through enough and Hound Dog is our school counselor, so he'll be helping you on that front. I just have one serious question for you, do you have trouble eating?”

“Oh, no ma'am. I don't really, I just… didn't have food …”

“Well, that's hardly your fault baby boy. I've already told Lunch Rush what to serve you while you're here, as well as Shouta and Toshi. Shouta Expressed wanting to bring you home made food himself, so he'll most likely be going home in the evenings to cook and bring you food. We'll have you at a presentable weight by the time you apply for highschool then.”

“ But that sounds like so much trouble!”

“I agree but don't bother fussing. It's how Shouta shows love. The man barely manages to eat himself but everyone he cares about somehow ends up with either a homemade treat or a store bought one at some point if he's concerned about them. I can't tell you how happy I was when Toshi started being tutored by him, and then dating the man. Because of how much food his quirk requires him to intake, he's a stickler for proper diet.”

“Yeah, I noticed this morning.”

“Indeed! I'll have to show you all the videos I have saved of your new dad's! It's hilarious and adorable.” Nedzu pipes up from the end of the bed where he's climbed up to sit.

“oh yes, I've seen a few myself. They're quite hilarious.” She turns to the cart she wheeled in with her. “Now, here is a baggie of my special gummies. I want you to snack on those until lunch time, but no pressure to finish them. Also, I have an apple juice, a water bottle, and a protein shake for you. Drink these as you please, but I'd prefer if they were gone by lunch. Lunch today will be rice, soup, and small bits of lightly seasoned chicken with another bottle of water and shake. I must stress though, /do not/ push yourself to eat if you get full. Food can be set to the side and we will happily bring more if you want later. Any questions?”

“No ma'am.”

“Okay love. Now, I have students to attend to and a hospital to run. You and Nedzu have fun.”

Izuku waved goodbye as she left and turned to the principal. “It's nice to meet you, Nedzu sir.”

“Now, now little kit, Nedzu works just fine or a nickname you feel comfortable with. I prefer to treat my staff and their families as my own and have no real love for formalities and honorifics.”

“Oh, sorry si- uh, Nedzu.”

“That's quite alright kit, you didn't know. So tell me, what are you working on there?” he asked, eying the notebook curiously.

Chapter Text

Shouta knew his day had gone too easy. The kids were more behaved than normal, he was able to get his paperwork done in a decent amount of time, and going home to make dinner for him and his family was fast and easy. 

When he opened the door to Izuku's room, he was sorely tempted to turn around and leave. Nedzu was full on laughing, not cackling like normal, but laughing. Izuku was smiling at him, there were notebooks all over the bed, and a chess board. 

“We've barely even filled out the foster forms and you've already stolen our child.” He deadpanned as he started unpacking dinner.

“No need to be so dramatic, Shou-chan. I'm just pleased to be able to meet another person who understands us on a more basic level. You'll come to understand yourself, since you were once a personal student of mine as well.”

Shouta could feel his left eye twitching. While logically, he knew Nedzu would never intentionally do anything to put Izuku in danger or encourage bad behavior, he has the gut reaction to stomp out any possibility of anything bad happening to their child.

Internally, he deflated a bit seeing how happy Izuku looked. “Okay then. As long as Izuku is happy. No talks of taking over the world though.”

“Oh heavens no! Not until he's at least an adult!”

The twitching got worse.

“Hey Shouta-san, dinner smells good. What did you make?” Hopeful veridian eyes were practically boring into his soul as he asked.

“Oh, just some rice with veggies and a little bit of fried pork. Granny said to slowly work you back up to meat so it's not much, but I hope you like it.”

“That sounds amazing! Pork Katsudon is actually my favorite!”

“Good to know. I actually brought some pj's from myself and one of Toshis' shirts for you. It'll basically be a nightgown on you, but I figured it would be more comfortable than the hospital gown. We'll get changed after dinner.”

“Okay, thank you! Nedzu, can we spend time together tomorrow too? I want to make sure I've got the code down.”

“Of course kit! And, if you have questions tonight, Shou-chan knows this code as well. In time, we'll work on you making your own, but for now, practice makes perfect. Goodnight you two.” Nedzu packed up his chess board and left with a wave.

“Okay squirt, food, pj's, and then I'd like to know what you two did today. You both seemed rather excited”

“We had a lot of fun working on my analysis notes! He said they're really good, but that it's safer to have everything coded. “ 

Shouta helped him pack up the notebooks and supplies he had out. One caught his eye as he was closing it up. It wasn't in code yet, but it was him with little observations and questions.

He understood why Nedzu was so interested.

“This is really good, kid. I think our coworker Nemuri will love you. She teaches art and art history here. She will absolutely Insist you call her Aunt Nem though.”

“Yeah, Nedzu said the same. I'm looking forward to meeting all of the family… just not too soon …” He looked away shyly, curling in on himself a bit.

“That's okay lil one. Unless there's some sort of emergency, you don't have to meet anyone until you're ready.”

They ate together while watching a documentary on quirks that Izuku picked out. The ravenette was internally giddy at the choice, glad to not have to watch some cringe tv shows most of the teens in his class talk about.

Outwardly, he kept his usual bored expression while eating and watching Izuku eat. The boy was enthralled by the program and he'd have to gently nudge him as a reminder about dinner.

Once done, he bagged up the tupperware to take home for cleaning and put Toshinori's food in the microwave. “Okay Izu-chan, here's the shirt I brought. Do you want to change in here and I go in the bathroom, or the other way around?”

“That'll be fine, Shouta-san. I probably won't need the bathroom until later.” He explained awkwardly while rubbing his neck.

Shouta wisely chose not to comment or embarrass him. The usual teasing and banter can come later. He couldn't wait to see the kids personally once he finally started recovering and his true self could come through. He could see the spark behind those shy smiles. 

A few minutes later he came out in his sleepwear, a black T-shirt and fluffy cat print bottoms with cat slippers. The giggle that just burst out of the kid cemented that he made the right choice. 

“Toshinori-san was right. You really love cats. I love them too.” He looked up with a little smirk at the giggling child. He could get used to hearing that every day. 

He had to fight to keep the smirk in place though. The T-shirt hung off of the kids right shoulder, revealing pink mounds of scarred flesh. He knew burn scars when he saw them. ‘keep it cool. Don't scare the child. Toshi will cry… oh hell, I'll cry if the kid does, who am I kidding.’

“You more comfortable, green bean?”

“Much, thank you. How long until Toshinori-san gets here?” he asked as he settled onto the bed and moved the cover to where Shouta was obviously supposed to be. 

(He did not internally melt at the fact it was right next to Izuku with the obvious intention of them being shoulder to shoulder. Nope. Not at all)

“Well, I believe he said he should be back around 7 so another hour and a half or so?” He, of course, took his assigned spot and grabbed the TV remote. “It looks like the documentary is over. How do you feel about old cartoons from the pre-quirk era? We like to watch the ones based on Marvel and DC.”

“Cool! I love Batman and the Justice League! The Avengers are cool too!”

“Glad we can agree. I'm sorry if I fall asleep. You can wake me up if I do though.”

“That's okay Shouta-san. I know you're probably tired, being a hero and a teacher is probably a lot. I'll be okay.” The boy re adjusted the pillows so they would be laying out more. “A nap couldn't hurt. I haven't had this much fun in a long time.”

That actually broke his heart a little hearing that. Spending time with someone just playing a game and learning a skill should be the bare minimum, not a ‘best time ever’ goal.

“Well, hopefully we'll be able to do a lot of fun stuff. When Toshi was in America, he fell in love with amusement parks. There are a few here in Japan, so maybe we could go see them during summer break?”

“That sounds really fun.” The kid yawned, already half asleep. They both scooted down to get comfortable. “Uh … can I… I mean…”

“C’mere kid.” Shouta pulled Izuku close, placing his head on his chest and burying his hand in the curls to lightly scratch at his scalp. “Never be afraid to ask for what you want from me or Toshi lil bush. It's about time you get the love and care you deserve.”

Izuku couldn't really respond. There was just so much emotion trying to come out at once, so he just squeezed his guardian close to him before relaxing into the cuddle. He hadn't been held like this since he was 4… before his diagnosis. But, his guardians, his dad's, they didn't care about that. He could finally try to be a kid again.

Chapter Text

The rest of the week progressed the same thankfully. Shuzenji declared Izuku healthy enough to go home after he had quickly put on several pounds and was close to eating the recommended amount of food. He still had a few weeks to go, but she was confident in leaving him to the care of the pro hero couple. 

Unfortunately, this meant they finally had to discuss the legal issues. Nedzu and Toshinori got the ball rolling on the school and social worker, as well as the local hospital since a lot of his older injuries must have needed some sort of medical attention. However, without specifics, they couldn't legally demand video or written records. 

They were good friends with a detective, 

Naomasa Tsukauchi, AKA True Man. His quirk, lie detector, would easily help them in getting the warrants needed. He had helped Shouta and Toshinori on many cases, and he had played a role in getting Nedzu his rights. The government may not have trusted an ‘animal’, but they couldn't dispute a man who, not only could tell if you were lying, but could not lie.

So, they called him, and Toshinori sat down with Izuku to explain the above points.

“I understand it needs to be done… I may be safe, but other kids aren't…. Will you two stay with me?”

“Of course my boy! Shouta and I wouldn't dream of leaving you alone. We're all going to Nedzus' office for lunch, so he'll be with us as well. After the interview, we do whatever you want.”

“... Can we come back and work on my room together? Aunt Nem and Uncle Zashi got me a lot of stuff…” They both looked around the room at the dozens of stuffies, pillows, blankets, a desk with a large box of supplies on top of what Toshinori had already given him, figurines, a book shelf, and signed merchandise from his own agency. 

The older hero chuckled while rubbing his neck. “Yeah, we tried to stop them, but they're pretty stubborn. Hopefully they'll calm down when they finally get to meet you.”

“Yeah… maybe next week? Granny said she should be able to finally use her quirk on me this weekend so the marks won't be so visible…”

Toshinori held the boy close. He wanted to give him solid words of affirmation, but it felt like he'd be giving false bravado when he himself struggled with the idea of he or Shouta seeing his scar. “I understand.” Was all he could say.

They'd talk about body positivity later, maybe the three of them could have a family session with Hound Dog. For now, lunch was coming close, so they had to leave for U.A.. 

“Okay Izu-chan, let's get our coats and head out. Your old coat from your apartment was rather thread-bare, so how about you use the leather Present Mic one Zashi got you? It should be warm enough.”

“Yes please!”

-🌻-

“Ah, Toshi-kun! Izu-chan! You're early.” Nedzu cheered happily. “Shou-chan will be here soon as well, and Nao-san should be another 10 minutes. How about some nice tea?”

“That sounds lovely, Nedzu. Izuku, would you like tea?”

“Sure! Uncle Nedzu makes the best tea!”

Toshinori had to fight as hard as he could not chuckle at the sheer joy Nedzu began to exude when his kid said that. Sure, the staff has all manner of nicknames for him, but Izuku was the first to give him a family related one.

“Well, Izu-chan, I won't disappoint! How about a matcha chamomile tea blend? You seem to like those the best.”

“They're my favorite! Thank you!”

He made a mental note to add those flavors to the list of Izuku's favorites. He didn't call many things his favorite so he, Shouta, and Nedzu were always paying attention and comparing notes. 

Too soon, Shouta and Naomasa showed up for the interview.

“Good afternoon Midoriya-kun. I am Detective True Man. It's a pleasure to meet you.”

“It's nice to meet you too. Um… could you maybe call me Izuku? I actually don't like Midoriya… it's my father's name and he… he abandoned me and Mom after my diagnosis…”

The three heros knew all of this, but hearing the hurt in the childs voice made them bristle in anger.

“True. I'm sorry to hear that Izuku-kun. Please forgive me if I upset you. I do need to inform you that my quirk is called lie detector. This means that I cannot lie, I can tell if someone is lying, and it can not be turned off. Are you okay with speaking with me?”

“Yes sir! I'm not upset or anything at you. I actually think your quirk is so cool and one day, if everyone is okay with it, I want to ask questions about it.”

“True. I'm happy to hear that, and certainly don't mind answering some questions you have sometime in the future. Now, I do have to record the interview. Does everyone consent to being recorded?

They all verbally agreed.

“True. I will now start the audio recording and state the basics before beginning the official interview.” He pressed the red button on a handheld recorder and placed it on Nedzus' desk.

“This is Detective True Man, Naomasa Tsukauchi. I am in the principal's office at U.A. High to conduct an official interview with Midoriya Izuku. With us are his guardians and Principal Nedzu. For the record, could each of you state your names, date of births, current occupancy, and your relation to the case?”

“Pro Hero and, U.A. principal, Nedzu. Date of birth January 1st, year 2XXX. As for my relation to the case, I have started the investigation into Aldera Middle, and possibly elementary school. I called you in, as I need help getting proper warrants and Chiyo Shuzenji raised serious concerns over Izuku-kuns’ lack of medical information. We fear that there is rampant discrimination in Musutafu.”

“True.”

“Yagi Toshinori, retired Pro Hero All Might, soon to be teaching at U.A. under my civilian name. Date of birth June 10th 2XXX. I was the one to rescue Izuku. Me and my spouse Aizawa Shouta have started fostering Izuku for his protection, considering the state I found him in. I have filed charges against CPS and his caseworker who abandoned him. I brought my concerns regarding his statement of discrimination from teachers, students, and medical staff against him and his late mother to Nedzu and now you.”

“True”

“Aizawa Shouta, Pro Hero Eraserhead and 1A homeroom teacher of U.A.. Date of birth November 8th 2XXX. I am the spouse of Yagi Toshinori, and guardian to Izuku. I am here at Izuku's request for support.”

“True.”

“I'm Midoriya Izuku, just Izuku please. Date of birth July 15th 2XXX. I'm a student at Aldera Middle school. I, uh… I guess my relation to the case is… I'm…the victim…”

“True. I'm sorry Izuku-kun. I know that was hard to say. You're doing wonderful. Now, we already have official reports from the heros, I just need your statement regarding your experience. If I need anything clarified, I will ask.”

“Thank you. Uh… I guess um… it started after I was diagnosed as quirkless.”

“Quirklessness isn't an illness. Did the doctor specifically say diagnosed?”

“Yeah… Mama cried a lot and apologized to me and everything.”

“True. I want the record to show that Musutafu general has shown signs of discrimination early on. Izuku-kun, what happened after?”

“Well, uh… my teachers told everyone in class and said I was weak and had to be looked after … the kids all made fun of me for being un-evolved, and a… a null…”

“True. Izuku… did you or your mother give permission to the school to tell them your quirk status?”

“No sir. Mama said to never tell anyone. She only told her best friend, Aunti Mitsuki and her husband, Uncle Marasu. They told their son that it doesn't matter… but the teachers … “ 

Izuku trailed off, stuck in his memories. The hero's and detective could see him slipping. The detective paused the recording while Toshinori and Shouta worked to bring him back.

Izuku started hyperventilating and crying much to everyone's dismay. “I…I…I didn't do anything wrong! The teachers made… made me sound like.. like I was diseased!”

He was sobbing into Shoutas' chest as Toshinori held them both. 

“All True. I think we should stop for now. This is enough to open a more detailed investigation into everyone. Depending on what we find, we may have follow up questions, but I'm going to do my best to avoid it.”

“Thank you Nao-san. Toshi, Shou, take Izuku home. I'll take over the rest of the investigation with the detective.”

“... uncle Nedzu… I know.. I know what the kids did was wrong… but please… don't ruin their lives… I swear… I swear they didn't care until the teachers said something…”

“Izuku… I will take all of that into consideration… the kids will be given a chance to redeem themselves. However, should they refuse or not meet the requirements, they will have a black mark.”

“... I understand sir.”

“Thank you Izuku. And Shouta, don't worry about your classes for the next two days. You two just focus on him. The others can cover for you.”

-🌻-

The heros spent the afternoon helping Izuku with his room. It didn't take long, so Izuku asked if they could all lay down together. The day had drained him terribly, and until the investigations were officially closed, there could be more interviews. So, they retired to the couples room.

Everyone had all changed into tank tops and pj bottoms. Izuku's clothes were all old and oversized, obviously bought second hand since the case worker barely provided for him. Shouta had convinced Izuku to let him take him clothes shopping the next day. For now though, they were facing each other, cuddled together with Toshinori behind Izuku, his longer arms holding them both close.

Shoutas' arms were both around Izuku, one hand running through his curls, the other rubbing his shoulders. He had his eyes closed, tears running down his cheeks. He could feel every rough patch of flesh from the burn scars. Just knowing why they were there made his chest hurt. 

He couldn't believe how forgiving their child was. He certainly didn't feel so forgiving when the other children hurt him for having a ‘villanous quirk' during his time in the orphanage.

He's scared to think about what would have happened if Hizashis’ parents hadn't saved him. 

He hummed softly when he felt a kiss to his forehead and a large thumb wiped away his tears. “I'm gonna go start dinner love. Do you want a weighted blanket?”

Bless this man, he almost wanted to tell him to grab the paper bag from the closet with a certain set of boxes in it.

“Please. Thank you Toshi. I love you.”

“I love you too Shou.” He grabbed Shoutas' weighted blanket from their closet and covered them. “Take a nap kitten. I'll wake the two of you later.”

“That sounds wonderful. Could you bring a cup of water first?”

“Of course. It'll be on the side table.” 

He felt another kiss to his temple before being lulled to sleep by Izuku's little puffs of breath against his collar bone.

Chapter Text

The next morning found the three back to where they were the previous evening. Toshinori had made a simple soup for dinner, considering no one really had an appetite. After eating, they went to sleep. 

The blonde was the first to wake. At least, he thought he was. Something had woken him up. He blinked a few times, taking a moment to breathe, when he noticed an unusual sensation on his left side over his scar. Slowly as not to disturb the others, he turned his head and looked down, to see that his tank had ridden up and one of Izukus’ hands was on the scar.

The boy appeared to be only somewhat conscious, eyes still glazed over, and was quietly mumbling to himself. He was listing potential organ damage, treatment, calculating recovery time… but mostly just saying how thankful he was for Toshinori. He could make out little praises of how strong and brave he was to give so much for everyone. How much he must have gone through to protect Japan, possibly the world. Eventually, Izuku molded himself to the large man's side, arm now over his stomach, and fell back asleep with a soft ‘thank you dad.’.

He wasn't sure how coherent Izuku had been, or if he'd remember the moment, but he'd never forget. Not only did his son appreciate him and the sacrifices he made, but he called him ‘dad’. He couldn't stop smiling if he tried.

Shouta grumbled incoherently before turning to curl against Izuku's back, his free arm lining up next to the boys over Toshinoris’ middle. He just huffed lightly and wound his left arm behind them, rubbing Shoutas' back. The man hummed sleepily, almost sounding like a purr.

With his right hand, he grabbed his phone from the bedside table, noting that it was nearly 7 am. He knew his partner would be a little annoyed at him for letting him sleep in, but they were all free the next two days, and he wanted to enjoy this time with his family. 

He managed to open the camera and get a decent picture of the three of them. Unable to go back to sleep, he decided to check emails and try to get a little work done. He frowned at seeing an email from Sir Nighteye. They hadn't talked since he defeated All For One. 

Opening it, he saw that he certainly hadn't changed. The man kept on insisting that he passed down his quirk. Now he was saying he found the perfect U.A. student and was going to have them as an intern. He sighed softly and forwarded it to Nedzu. 

|Sir, I'm afraid he hasn't let up. I beg you, please take away his ability to do internships. He's become very unhinged. I have no desire to pass on my quirk. Even if All For One had not died, I refuse to put that pressure on a child. Or anyone else, for that matter.|

|Oh dear. I see. I'll take care of this. We certainly will not have our students being used as pawns for someone's agenda. How's Izu-chan?|

|(Picture attached) I took this a few minutes ago. Yesterday was rough, but he's comfortable now.|

|Absolutely beautiful. Thank you my friend. Hizashi and Nemuri were quite worried. I vaguely explained the issue. They understand what's going on. However, the others are now questioning things. I know you two haven't said anything to them yet.|

|Ah, yes. Go ahead and let them know we are fostering a child and will be adopting soon. If they press, we'll just explain that it's delicate and we'll go over it later when he's ready to meet everyone.|

|Done. I put it in the group chat so you may want to silence your phones.|

His phone and Shoutas' phone went off at the same time, immediately alerting the underground hero. 

|Well, Shouta is awake (^~^”). I'll switch over to the group chat.|

|Apologies. ʕ – ᴥ – ʔ|

|It's fine. You probably saved my life. You know how he hates sleeping in.|

“Mmf. Why is it past 7?”

“Izuku and I wanted cuddles.”

“...fair. Coffee please?”

“Of course love. You might want to mute your phone. The group chat will blow up soon. Nedzu had to say something because the others were asking questions. So he asked me what to say.”

“Mmmm let them suffer next time. But I understand. Phone's muted. Coffee please. I'll cuddle Izuku.”

Toshinori snickered before kissing Shoutas' forehead. “I love you, my grumpy kitty.”

“Love you, blonde buffoon.”

He just smiled as he left to make the coffee and watch chat explode. And he was not disappointed at all.

Snipe |Wait, Nem and Hizashi were actin weird all last week. Why are we just now hearing about this?|

NemNem |Hey, the kid is having a rough time! He isn't even ready to meet us and he knows we know about him.|

Snipe |Sorry. No offense was meant. I just get excited to have new family.|

LoudBoy |Trust me yo, I get the excitement, but lil listener needs time.|

CrimsonLife |I just need to know if he likes hugs. I love spoiling my nieces and nephews with hugs.|

SpaceCadet |I second this ^|

Phantom |Third ^. But I don't want to scare him.|

BossRat |Not possible Ecto-kun. The kit adores quirks and wants to be an analyst. I can guarantee you he will be excited to meet all of you, when he is ready.|

MightyOne |He expressed that starting next week, should he be recovered enough, he'll be ready to start meeting everyone. Since I retired, I'll be homeschooling him until he joins U.A.|

 LoudBoy |Yo! Congratulations on retirement! Does that mean you're finally gonna start here?|

MightyOne |Indeed. I'm concerned with my identity though. I'm teaching under my civilian name, and I'm changing my exercise plan so I'll be more cut than buff, but I'll still look too much like All Might. I can't slim my jaw bone (╥﹏╥)|

Shaman |I have an idea. During my college years in med school, I went to Europe. If you grew a beard, you could pass for Nordic descent. If you feel like you can tolerate a beard at least.|

Shaman|(sends pictures of modern day viking looks) You know, a couple of these look like you.|

MightyOne |Genuinely doesn't surprise me. My mother was Japanese, but my father was a foreigner. She wasn't sure from where though. Said it was either the US or Europe actually. I could grow a beard easily. I already have to shave daily to keep my look otherwise, after a week,  I'll have already grown a few centimeters of facial hair (⸝⸝๑﹏๑⸝⸝)|

TiredCat |Do it. Also, is coffee done? I'd like to be fully awake before participating.|

MightyOne |Shouta agreed. Be prepared for a beard. Even I don't know what I'll look like.|

Toshinori poured Shouta a cup and took it to him. The rest he planned to save for a coffee dessert he was going to surprise him with when he got back from shopping with Izuku.

“Here love. Did he wake up at all?” he said softly.

Shouta shook his head as he reached for the cup. “Nah. He just curled up against my legs and has had his head in my lap the whole time. What were you thinking for breakfast?”

“Well, since he's still asleep, how about I make those American style blueberry pancakes you like?”

“Full American breakfast? Like eggs, bacon, and sausage? Orange juice and milk too? He should be fine as long as he doesn't over eat.”

“Excellent. I'll get to work then. You just relax.”

“Hmmm. You spoil me.”

“Well, for the next ten months I'm not officially working so I plan to spoil you both rotten. I'll be the perfect house husband.”

Shoutas' heart skipped a beat. The idea of him wearing his new ring was looking better and better. Fuck it. “Hey Toshi, can you grab me something before you go?”

“Absolutely. Already taking advantage of being spoiled?” He joked as he wiggled his eyebrows.

He snorted at the blonde's antics and pointed to the closet. “On top of the rack, right side front corner. Grab the paper bag and bring it here.” He said as evenly as he could. His heart was beating wildly, but he kept his breathing calm.

“Here you are, love. What is it though?” Toshinori tilted his head, the blonde poofy mane of hair barely moving.

Shouta hummed instead of answering. “We'll have to figure out how to control your frizz a bit more. If we're going for Nordic, it either needs to start being braided or at least smoothed out and put in a loose ponytail or bun.”

“Agreed. As long as you don't make me do the hair gel thing I had to do as All Might. That stuff itched like hell after a day of work. Now, I didn't get an answer. What are you being so sneaky about?” He teased and booped Shouta on his nose.

The smaller man sighed and reached into the bag. “I'm shit at words, you know this. So I'm just gonna be blunt. The day you saved Izuku, my heart just ached. Good and bad. Bad for the fact that a child was hurt, good for you and how you handled everything. I didn't think I could love you anymore than that, but you really keep raising that bar. Hearing you say ‘house husband’ completely killed any resolve to try and wait for a super romantic moment because… because I /really/ want that… the husband part at least. You're not letting that damn license go to waste after all the work I put into you. So… marry me?”

He pulled the box out that had both of their rings in it. A stunned Toshinori took it and opened the little velvet square to see the rings set in front of each other. He stared so long Shouta was worried he'd messed up, but his partner just took the black one and grabbed his right hand to put it on before slipping his white one on his.

Two large hands cradled his face and brought him into a soft, chaste, kiss. He felt a tear from his now fiance's face touch his nose, and when he opened his eyes, he could see wet lines coming from the blue and black orbs that just stared at him with such reverence.

They broke apart after a few moments. “I know we tease each other a lot, it seems to be our perfect love language, but all teasing aside, I love you Shouta. Of course I'll marry you. And, if it's all the same, I'd like to take your last name. I want to let go of my past completely, and to top of the physical changes, I want this as well ”

“Whatever you want, love. I can't wait to see our family grow.”

“And you said you're bad with words. You know exactly what to say… When you've had coffee.” He chuckled at the look he received.

“Well, you're not wrong. In any case, dibs on telling the others. You need to go start on that amazing breakfast. After this…”

He took Toshinori's right hand into his and got a picture with their fingers threaded to show both rings, white on tan and black on pale.

“Mmmm, go cause chaos my caffeinated kitten. I'll be reading along when I can.” With one more kiss, he left for the kitchen.

Chapter Text

TiredCat |(adds photo of the rings) He said yes.|

BossRat |Congratulations! At this rate we'll have to throw a party!|

TiredCat |Just nothing public, and no official wedding. You know the drill.|

CrimsonLife |Ah yes. The tragic life of heros. Nothing too public or it can be used against you. It's why most of us are single or never show our faces.|

Snipe |Right? God forbid my family is ever targeted. Y'all are the only one's I know that have ever known anything about my life.|

SpaceCadet |And we appreciate your trust in us.|

Snipe |Well, y'all are family too now.|

Shaman |So this is why I have terrified students dragging an unconscious Hizashi and Nemuri into my office. Congratulations.|

TiredCat |... They helped me buy the rings…|

KissTheCook |Those drama queens belong together I swear. Congratulations you two. Just let me know how many people to prepare food for. I suggest a nice reception type dinner in the cafeteria one weekend?|

TiredCat |That works. You guys may be crazy, but you're our crazy family. So, maybe around fall break where there's no chance of kids? I patrol on weekend nights.|

BossRat |Seems like an acceptable compromise. We'll confirm how many and who can come later.|

GoodestBoy |So, congratulations. What do I tell these poor traumatized children?|

TiredCat |That their teachers are drama queens and they overreacted.|

GoodestBoy |Without destroying their reputation with kids they're supposed to be in charge of.|

Shaman |Just say they got excited over some news and that they were overwhelmed, that it's really personal regarding family and leave it at that.|

GoodestBoy |Excellent. Thank you Shuzenji. Keep me updated on the date. I'll gladly be there. I also look forward to meeting your child.|

TiredCat |Thank you Inui. I think breakfast is almost ready, Toshi makes the best American breakfast. I'm gonna wake kiddo up. We'll see you this weekend, Shuzenji.|

Shaman |I look forward to seeing the sweetie pie again.|

-🌻-

Izuku, ever observant, got excited when he saw the rings. “So, will we all have the same last name now?”

“If that's what you want my boy. When everything is settled we can put in adoption forms and have your name changed to Aizawa. Since I am retired, there will be other changes as well to help hide my old hero identity.”

“That's understandable. You're really noticeable.” He said giggling and poking Toshinoris' bicep.

“Haha, very true. I have altered my workout schedule so I won't be as muscular as I am now. Since I can't really do much about my face shape, I'll be growing a beard so I'll look less Japanese.”

“Oh cool! I can't wait to see your new look! So, are we all shopping together today?”

“Yes. I have medical face masks that we can all wear. As long as our clothes look normal, we shouldn't stand out. Zashi did get you that nice leather Present Mic jacket and shirt. We just need to pick out a decent pair of pants for you to wear out.”

“My school pants are okay for the most part. My shirt was the only thing that ever got truly ruined.”

The adults were thankful that he managed to say that without getting caught up in his thoughts again. After seeing Shuzenji for his final check up and healing, they planned to ask Inui to come over for a quick session. 

“That'll be fine. They did look a little big still, and I don't think we have a belt small enough for you. Would you be okay with one of us carrying you?”

“I'm alright with being carried. It sounds really nice.”

Shouta helped Toshinori comb his hair out to put into a poof ball ponytail, leaving his bangs to hang down. They both decided on grey sweats and their black Present Mic hoodies to match Izuku in his black pants, grey Present Mic shirt and leather jacket. 

If anyone they knew saw them and asked, it made Izuku happy. Which wasn't really a lie. 

It being early morning on a school day, the mall was fairly calm. They were easily able to get in and out of the clothing store with plenty of clothes for Izuku. Toshinori carried him the whole time, except for when he was trying on clothes. They did get him a belt so he could walk with them to the food court. 

After lunch, Shouta had spotted an arcade. “Hey lil bush, wanna go to the arcade?”

“Really!? I've never been to one before!” He was bouncing in place, hands clasped in front of him with wide hopeful eyes. 

“Of course. I wouldn't have suggested it to tease you. C’mon. I wanna see if I'm still any good at skeeball.”

“Oh, the arcades here have that too? I haven't been to one since living in America so I wasn't sure. Let's see who gets the highest score!”

Of course Shouta won. He had to operate his capture scarf all the time. The other two graciously accepted defeat and they all moved on to other games. They played some shooting games, DDR, basketball, little games where you try to time the arm to scoop items up for tickets, and even crane machines. (Shouta won a Miruku themed bunny plush for Izuku.)

At the ticket stand they all agreed to use what they won for a board game at home and said to pay the rest forward.

On their way out, Izuku got nervous, as School had let out and kids were showing up. He looked up to his guardians. “Um, can… can we leave please? “

“Of course we can. Do you want me or Toshi to carry you?” When Izuku nodded and stepped towards him, he easily lifted the small teen. His legs wound around his middle, arms around his neck, and he sighed as he buried his face into Shoutas' neck.

“Thank you papa. You and Dad are the best.” 

Everyone froze. Izuku, because he hadn't meant to say it out loud. He'd been thinking it for a few days, but he's been too scared to get rejected. Shouta and Toshinori because they were overjoyed.

“M’sorry… I shouldn't have said that…”

“Oh baby boy no … it's okay! We're happy you said that! I know it's fast, but we love you like our own. You are our own.” Shouta squeezed him close as he spoke.

“He’s right my boy. You're our son, and we love you very much. I'm happy to be your dad just as Shou is to be your papa.”

Izuku could only nod as he cried tears of joy. 

“How about a nice snack? We should head over to the cat Cafe. Maybe we'll even find a good match to adopt!" The blonde suggested happily.

His family enthusiastically agreed and they left the mall.

Chapter Text

The visit to the cat cafe was very productive. The three of them enjoyed a few pastries together and spent a few hours with the cats that were up for adoption. 

They did decide on one, a giant Norwegian forest cat. He was pure black with a white star shape on his forehead. According to the owners, he had a minor intelligence quirk. The family of three had been the first people he approached since being given up, usually growling or shying away.

But, he went right to Izuku, and began to purr loudly. Izuku was enthralled quickly and began petting him. Reading the tag, he giggled. “Hi Fluffy. I'm Izuku.”

“Muuurrrrrr oowww.” he trilled happily and licked the boys face.

The baristas went wild and begged the adults to take him. He was only a year or so old and would easily live another 20+ with the right care. But he'd literally been there over half of his life because of his careless original owners.

Toshinori was on board since it was obvious the cat loved their son. Shouta was on board in general before they even got there.

So now, they were at home, setting up the feeder and bed given to them when they adopted fluffy. “Well Fluffy, what do you think?” Izuku asked the cat, who was curiously sniffing the air. Said cat stopped sniffing and trotted to the boy to rub against him. 

“He looks rather happy. I did notice that they didn't provide a box though …” Toshinori said awkwardly, a bit confused.

“Oh! While you were signing the papers with papa, they explained that his intelligence quirk makes him as smart as a person completely, he just can't talk. He can use the bathroom like us!” The boy explained excitedly. “ Maybe we can set up something to communicate with! We could probably teach him to type on a tablet, or maybe have a bunch of letter blocks! Or, or..” Izuku was excitedly rambling about the possibilities, the adults and cat watching him fondly. 

A knock at the door silenced him while Shouta and Toshinori just looked confused. “Izuku sweetie, take Fluffy to your room while we see who's come by, ok?”

“Okay papa. I love you guys. C’mon Fluffy. I'll show you my awesome room. My aunt's and uncles got me some cool stuff. I haven't met them yet, but we can meet them together now and…” The boys voice faded as he closed his door, and the two heros went to see who was knocking.

“Miria, what the hell are you doing here?!” Toshinori asked angrily when he opened the door.

“Yagi, you know why I'm here. You got Nedzu involved, seriously?!” The younger man growled angrily.

“Yes, I did! I've had enough of you trying to control me! All For One is dead, confirmed dead. I will not be passing my quirk on, end of story. You were trying to use a child in your schemes! I've had it with you! Now you come here to harass me and my family?! Get out!”

“ Why can't you see sense?! We can't let your quirk die! What if another, even stronger villain comes along?!”

“Then the new generation of heroes will handle it! My quirk is hardly the end all be all Miria! I guarantee you there is someone out there who will be as strong, if not stronger, than me! I don't know what has gotten into you, but I strongly suggest you seek psychiatric help.”

During their argument, they hadn't noticed Izuku come back out. He had heard his dad's raised voice and became concerned. “Daddy, papa, is everything ok?”

The three adult all turned their attention to the fidgeting boy, who had changed into the all might colored cat pj's that he had picked out (red top, blue bottoms, and yellow cat paws and silhouettes on both with yellow slippers)

“Oh, my boy! It's okay. This man will be leaving soon and we can start on dinner okay? For now, go ahead and go back to your ….”

“Seriously?! And you said /I/ was using a child?! What do you call /that/?”

Izuku flinched hard when Mirai motioned to him. His eyes blowing wide in confusion.

“Wha…. What?” He asked quietly, voice starting to wobble

“Izuku, honey, ignore this man. He's having a disagreement with your Dad ok? We'll explain further, but go to your room where you're safe and ....”

“Don't any of you play dumb with me! I bet he's your successor! What the hell made you choose such a pathetic looking brat?! He looks like a strong wind would blow him over! Togata is a much better choice and certainly a better candidate than him!”

Toshinori was practically purple in the face with rage, his eyes nearly black with how wide his pupils had gone with adrenaline. Shoutas' eyes were glowing angry red as he growled loudly at the unwanted guest.

Izuku was sobbing now, Fluffy trilled while rubbing against him to try and calm him down.

“You… you get the hell out of our house and never return! How dare you speak that way about our son! You absolutely disgust me Mirai, and I never want to see you again. Expect a formal complaint to the HC and the school board.”

The green haired man was about to argue, but Shouta was already manhandling him out the door. He shoved him out, locked the door, and sent a quick message to Tsukauchi to send a unit in case he didn't leave.

Toshinori had scooped the boy into his arms and was sitting on the floor with him in his lap and rocking side to side.

“I'm so, so sorry my boy. We've been at odds over me choosing a successor, but I don't want to put that sort of pressure on anyone, let alone a child. I didn't realize how unhinged he'd really become. I'm sorry I didn't protect you better.” The blonde himself was crying tears of frustration.

“I -hic- it's -hic- okay -hic-. I -hic- I -hic- und -hic- understand -hic-” 

“Shhh it's okay my boy. Breathe.”

Shouta came over with a glass of water and helped Izuku drink. “Don't worry Izuku. We'll keep him far away. Please don't mind anything he said. We're adopting you because we love you.” 

“Shouta, let me take care of Izuku. Message Nedzu and let him know what's going on. He may try something else and I want to make sure the other boy, Togata I believe he said, is safe.”

“Yeah. I know the boy. Togata Miro. He's the one with the quirk that lets him phase through solid objects.”

“Wait… the blonde boy that literally phased through his own clothes in the sports festival last year?” He asked, looking rather ill. 

“Yes, he's the one. Permeation is what I believe his quirk is called.”

“We'll talk more later. Just message Nedzu please love. Izuku, let's order dinner tonight okay? I think I just want cuddles and movies for the rest of the night.”

“Okay Daddy. Can we have Ramen?”

“Sure sweetie. Whatever you want.”

Chapter Text

Thankfully, the rest of the week had gone by smoothly. Nedzu had Aldera shut down and uncovered a budding MLA like group that were actively brainwashing children. The records they found indicated that this had only been happening for a few years though, and so far none of the children they taught had successfully made it into any hero courses. They were close to getting one in though, Bakugou Katsuki. 

The school had no cameras, they were unfortunately smart enough to not have video proof of what they did, but his quirk was unmistakable to Nedzu. He and Tsukauchi immediately interviewed the boy. 

Surprisingly, the boy quickly confessed, stating that he knew something was wrong from the start and bullied Izuku on purpose to keep the others away. He said he knew he went too far, but that he feared backing off would lead to others targeting the small boy. 

Tsukauchis quirk rang true the whole time. 

“Well, given this information Katsuki-kun, I'd say we can work something out. You'll be in mandatory therapy and anger management, as it is required for the young heros reform courses that the HC provides for cases like these. You will also be required to write an apology to Izu-chan, and I recommend that letter includes your reasoning. But, I have to ask, why did you tell no one?”

“Tch, I fuckin did. At least, I tried. I went to the principal first. Damn extra was in on it, so I tried the stupid cops, and they were no better! The moment quirkless left my mouth, they said I should make better, more camera friendly, friends.”

Well, good thing the detective was already aware that they might have had to look into local law enforcement. 

“I see. We will be looking into everything. Thank you for being so straightforward! While I don't approve of your methods, I understand your reasoning, flawed as it was.”

“Yeah, I fuckin know this ya damn rat! I always planned to come forward once I had a chance. I just… I didn't fuckin know who to trust! I wasn't even sure if my parents could be trusted at that point!”

“That's a scary thing to face, young man. I can certainly see how that made it harder and made you feel like you had no choice. We will be discussing this with your parents as well. With the right questions, my quirk should allow me to determine their feelings. They will be here soon. I know you came to us willingly, but you will have to repeat everything in front of them, as they are your guardians. We've already bent the rules too much as it is.”

“Yeah, I understand. I ain't scared of my old man and the hag. If they're just as bad as these fucks, I want nuthin to do with them.”

Mercifully, his parents were appalled at the situation, and even expressed extreme remorse for not noticing anything. Apparently, Inko and Mitsuki were best friends, and they were confused as to why Izuku didn't come into their care.

“Ah, well, according to the records we have, no one was listed as a potential guardian for Izuku. He himself expressed that he was told no one seemed to want him. He was even placed into special housing paid for and monitored by CPS.”

“That's bullshit!” So his mom was where the attitude came from. “We're supposed to be listed as his godparents!”

“Oh dear. Well, it looks like the detective and I will be looking into the entire department and not just his social worker. I am somewhat remorseful to inform you that he has appointed guardians already and they've completely fallen in love with the boy. They plan to adopt him officially soon. If Izu-chan agrees, after your son has written his apology and explained himself, we can certainly set up visitations.”

“I… I understand sir. Thank you. I do want it to be known that we will press charges. We own our own fashion design company, and I plan to put the legal team to work.”

“Oh, that's splendid! I'll have our legal team get in contact with yours! Should this all work out well, would you be willing to consider helping with costume designs? I feel as though the company we use now is just too, shall we say, adult for child hero hopefuls? I keep getting complaints from teachers and their female students about being uncomfortable in their designed costumes.”

“Ew. Yeah, we'll work something out. In fact, I'll get you some rough designs if you send me a few examples tonight. Here's my business card.”

“Excellent! Thank you Mrs. Bakugou. While I'm sorry we're meeting under these unfortunate circumstances, I'm excited to explore this new endeavor.”

Everything after was even easier. The school nurse caved completely and even admitted that the hospital that assigned her was just like the school, so they too were investigated and shut down temporarily until new staff could be brought in. Thanks to the Bakugous information, they were able to also overhaul the local police station and CPS office. 

In the end, with help from the detective, Shuzenji, Ken, Majima, and additional funding from Toshinori, they had the ground work to expand UAs control. Aldera elementary and middle were now UA elementary and middle. The hospital was now under UA control and the detective was promoted to Chief and put in charge of the new station, which was now in control of the CPS office until new staff were found.

Nedzu sent out several offers to retired heros to get their teaching license, or to ask if they recommend anyone. Hopefully he'd hear back soon since they needed a lot of new staff. Shuzenji sent emails to her old friends in Europe to see if any would be interested in relocating to Japan to work on the hospital, as well as to see if they knew anyone who'd be interested in teaching. 

All in all, Nedzu himself was very satisfied with how everything was progressing. He kept the staff informed in the group chat, and privately messaged the hero couple about the situation with the Bakugous.

Shouta |Well, Izu-chan will be happy at least. I don't like how the kid handled it, but I guess I understand flawed teenage logic.|

Toshinori |I agree with Shouta, sir. Also, as long as our son accepts the apology letter, and he is comfortable, I believe I can agree to a public meeting with them.|

Shouta |Same here.|

Nedzu |Wonderful! I'm sure they'll be happy to hear that. I was actually thinking about inviting them here one weekend. We could all meet in the teachers lounge and watch the boys while talking. I rather like the designs Mitsuki and Marasu made so I'll be hiring them.|

Shouta |Oh thank Kami. I was seriously getting sick of those revealing costumes the current company kept sending. It's just plain gross.|

Toshinori |Do I even want to know?|

Shouta |it's not that bad I suppose, but some of them were just ridiculous and provided absolutely no protection. Even if the student expressed wanting to just be a rescued hero or underground, the costumes were just too flashy and obviously meant to draw attention. On an adult, I guess I can see how maybe they'd be okay with it, but on kids? No.|

Toshinori |Fair enough. Izuku said hi Uncle Nedzu and Papa.|

Nedzu | ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ hi lil kit. |

Shouta |Hi baby boy. Ok I need to go back to teaching. I think I'm scaring the kids more than usual. |

Nedzu |A little healthy fear is nothing to worry about.|

Toshinori |I'm sure they'll be fine.|

Shouta | /ᐠﹷ ‸ ﹷ ᐟ\ﾉ who are you and where is my fiance?|

Toshinori |Oh hush grumpy Kitty. I'm just saying that I'm sure you're just exaggerating.|

Shouta |Nevermind. /\^-_-^/\|

Chapter Text

Izuku was nervous. He and his parents were on their way home from his final visit to Granny. The boy was happy to not see any visible marks, but he wasn't sure how to feel about meeting Hound Dog. 

His parents both spoke highly of him, and it did help calm his nerves. Somewhat. This was still a new adult, and considering he only recently had met nice adults, he still wasn't sure what to expect. The bright side was that they'd be at home, where he was always safe.

As soon as they arrived, his Dad went straight to the kitchen to make lunch while Papa set him up on the couch with one of his weighted blankets and a Present Mic plushie that his Uncle Yamada got him ( wow that man loved Present Mic). Shouta himself, curled up next to him and put on a pre-quirk movie, Beauty And The Beast. 

“Inui will be here soon for lunch. This isn't going to be an official first therapy session. He wants to have a conversation with all of us as a family to see where we go from here, okay?”

“I understand Papa. I know you and Dad are trying your best. I'm sure this isn't easy…”

“It's not exactly a hardship either kiddo. We were already discussing marriage and adoption before meeting you. I think the universe was just trying to tell us to ‘get on with it’.” Shouta chuckled. “Truthfully, a family is something I've wanted for a very long time. I kind of got that when I joined UA, but it's not the same as having a family at home.”

“That makes sense. It's like being grown up with siblings. You see them, but then you're alone at home.”

“Basically, yeah. You're definitely one smart kid. I wish I had more students like you.”

Izuku blushed furiously and hid under his blanket. “Papa!”

“What are you teasing our boy about Shou?” Toshinori said as he walked into the living room with a tray of finger sandwiches.

“Just saying I wish my students were more like him. I actually ended up expelling my entire class this year. Such a shame honestly.”

“Oh yeah, Nedzu was saying something about you taking over the heroics course this year since you didn't have a homeroom class. That bad?”

“Wait, Papa, why would you do that?” Izuku asked as he uncovered one eye to look at him.

“Well, I wouldn't say it's as simple as one answer. I'm the homeroom teacher of 1A. I expect the best. But beyond that, I expect certain personality aspects. I refuse to pass a child that will be reckless, arrogant, a danger to themselves or anyone else. I refuse to put another Endeavor into the world. I also refuse to allow someone to be so reckless as to get themselves killed.”

He sighed and looked towards the entertainment center, and quickly retrieved an old photo book. Shouta opened it to a well known page. On it was a portrait of him, Hizashi, Nemuri, and Oboro. The last photo they had taken together before that mission. 

“The one with white hair, that was Oboro, his hero name was Loud Cloud. He died during our internships. He... he ran into an unstable building trying to save people and… never came out.”

Aizawa was crying now. Toshinori sat next to him, providing what comfort he could. “My job is not just to provide hero's for Japan. It is to make sure they're as safe as they can be. A hero's job isn't just to protect civilians, it's to protect themselves and each other. I will not willingly put another reckless hero out there to die.”

“I understand Papa. I'm sorry you lost your friend.” Izuku had un-cocooned himself and curled up next to him. Aizawa put the book down and pulled their son into his lap. 

“It's okay, little bit. I just miss him. I'm not completely heartless though. Next year, if they show improvement, they can try again for the hero course, or even go to another hero school if they want. I just want them to understand the reality of being a hero. “

“That makes sense.” The boy said as he reached up to dry his Papa's eyes. Aizawa smiled and kissed his forehead.

“Hound Dog should be here soon. Let's just relax and eat while we watch the movie.”

-🌻-

Soon after they finished eating, and the movie was nearly half over, there was a knock at the door. Toshinori got up to answer it and returned with Inui. The hero was dressed in a red flannel shirt and loose fitted jeans. No shoes, just his paws, and his muzzle nowhere to be seen. 

“Good to meet you pup. I'm Ryo Inui, AKA Hound Dog the hunting hero. You may call me what you're comfortable with though.” He said and he took a seat in the recliner near the couch. 

“It's nice to meet you Ryo-san” the boy said softly while bowing his head.

“Granny was right. You're certainly a polite young man. As I'm sure your father's have explained, we're just going to have a nice little talk to see where you're all at and what we think the best course of action is. Do you have any specific concerns before I ask any questions?”

Izuku thought for a moment and nodded, looking slightly ashamed. “Um… I uh… is it weird for me to be so clingy and childish?”

Toshinori and Aizawa looked stunned and sad at the question. They each grabbed one of his hands and gently squeezed them in comfort.

For his part, Inui looked as if he expected this concern. “Not at all. From what I understand, your childhood had essentially been put on hold once you lost your mother. You were 7. You lost out on quite a bit of children's activities, and family bonding activities. You're going to crave those connections. There are adults who go into regressive therapy sessions specifically to fix the same issue. So no, you are not weird for being ‘childish’, as you call it, because you are still a child.”

“Oh… okay.”

“Toshinori, Aizawa, do you want to address anything?”

They both nodded, and  quickly affirmed that they agreed with Hound Dog on his evaluation, which did make Izuku smile softly and squeeze their hands that he was still holding.

“Okay then! So, I just want to take a moment to discuss what the current plans are for your son. Education, social development, and overall recovery plan. Is everyone okay with this?” 

After agreeing, they all discussed everything that had gone over previously, Toshinori homeschooling him, slowly introducing him to the staff, the meal plan, and potential weekly therapy. Hound Dog agreed with everything and spent the day making sure Izuku understood the plan so far. 

By the time dinner had rolled around, they were done and Inui decided it was time to go. “ It's been a pleasure getting to know you better pup. For now, how about you and I see each other every Sunday? You can even choose whether or not you want one or both of your dad's with you.”

“That sounds great Ryo-san. Thank you for agreeing to help me.” The boy replied softly, feeling happy but drained by the discussions.

“Perfect. I'll see everyone in a week. Well, besides you Aizawa. I'm sure we'll run into each other at some point at U.A.” he teased.

The ravenette just rolled his eyes with a smirk. “Probably. Kami knows things can quickly escalate there. Good night Inui.”

-🌻-

After dinner, a simple meal of soup with rice and meat, they all found themselves back in the couples room. Toshinori was once again on his back with Izuku curled up to his side, Shouta behind him, and Toshinoris' arm pulling them close.

“You guys really don't mind me being so clingy? I mean, I do have my own room …”

“Silly prince of nonsense, of course we don't mind. Inui was right, you know. It's okay to want the things you missed out on. If it's okay for adults to have regression therapy to experience childhood again, it's certainly okay for you, an actual child, to want to be clingy and loving.”

“Mmhmm. Listen to Dad, baby boy. Besides, I love cuddles. The only thing that would make this better is Fluffy coming to join.”

Of course the cat heard and came in trilling curiously. Izuku just laughed and called him up to join them. Which he did, planting himself between Izukus' and Shoutas' legs, his head laid on the boys hip and purring loudly.

“And now it's absolutely perfect. The whole family is all together.”

“Agreed love. You know my boy, we don't have to rush anything. We have 10 months until entrance exams, and I'm confident with your mind, you'll finish all your work before then. How about tomorrow you and I spend the day planning out family trips, and for lunch we'll go to U.A. and eat with Papa?”

“I like that idea a lot. Ryo-san was super nice so, I think I wouldn't mind seeing someone else. Just, hopefully not too many people?”

“Not a problem at all Izu-chan. We'll be in my office for lunch. Unless it's an emergency, no one really goes In there during lunch. Now, I say we finally sleep.” Shouta emphasized this by pulling the cover up closer to his neck, much to Fluffys annoyance when he was pulled with it, and nuzzling closer to his family. 

Toshinori and Izuku both hummed in agreement, and they all fell into a comfortable sleep.

Chapter Text

Their plans seemed to go well the next day. Toshinori brought Izuku to U.A. and they had lunch in Aizawas’ private office. That is until two /somewhat/ unwanted guests barged in.

“SHOU! NEM-CHAN IS… oh… sorry guys. Didn't know you came by… ohhhhh myyyyyyyy KAMI! HE IS ADORABLE!”

Izuku just stared wide eyed at the loud blonde, sputtering in surprise, before bursting into his usual mumbles and analytical questions.

“Y-you’re Present Mic! I have so many questions about your quirk! Like, can you change frequencies? If so, does that mean you could break glass without destroying the frame or walls? How much directional control do you have with, and without, your speakers? You're always wearing headphones, so does that mean your body isn't naturally resistant to your own quirk? Oh! Does that mean you have hearing aids then, or special earplugs? Do… oh… you're staring at me… I went a little overboard… didn't I?”

Izuku got nervous and looked at the floor, while Yamada stared at him in shock. “It's alright lil listener. I'm just so gosh darn impressed! I have 3rd years who have to write down a list for their analysis classes. You just rapid fired off several important questions that bring up really good points. When you start your internships I'd love to have you at my agency with my team!”

The smile that graced the adults had them sagging in relief. The idea of Izuku being nervous or shutting down was still daunting to his father's, and the voice hero also knew how delicate the situation really was. “Anywho, I'm really sorry I barged in. Had no idea you guys would be dropping by.”

Shouta waved dismissively. “It could have been worse. I trust you and Nemuri the most, you're both basically my annoying siblings. Speaking of, what did your dear wife do this time?”

“Oh! Well, there's young ears here…” he said, scratching his neck and looking embarrassed.

“Ah, so Nem being Nem. Since it's lunch, I take it she's teasing you. As long as it's kept to the staff room away from children, it's not a big deal.”

“Obviously. I'm just being dramatic and bugging my favorite honorary brother. So, lil green bean, did you like all your gifts me and your auntie Nem got you? I know it's probably really weird it's mostly my merch, but it's easiest for me to get hehe.”

Izuku.exe has stopped working. Attempting to reboot.

“Oh dear. We didn't quite get around to telling him his uncle Zashi was you, ah, Present Mic that is.” Toshinori explained, slightly bemused by Izuku's wide eyes and vacant expression.

Shouta sighed, covering his face with hand and mumbling how in under five minutes, his precious baby boy was broken.

“Uh…. Th-thank you Uncle Zashi! I-I do like my presents!” 

“That's wonderful! But don't forget, my wife helped! She was right behi-ACK!”

“Oh my word he's adorable!” The purple haired hero exclaimed as she rushed in and pulled Izuku into a hug. “Hi precious baby boy! I'm your auntie Nem!”

“M-m-m-Midnight!?”

“Oh, you even know who I am!”

“Little listener is super smart for sure Nem-chan.” Hizashi said as he stood up and brushed himself off. “Maybe we should go though so they can enjoy their lunch?”

“I don't mind! I-if Daddy and Papa don't mind I mean.” Izuku said, looking at his parents hopefully.

“Haha, well my boy, I don't think it'll be an issue. I personally have a few questions for them regarding your homeschooling, and it'll be beneficial for you and Shouta to be here.”

“I'm alright with it, lil bush. Besides, I was thinking of a few questions myself. Mainly, how does everyone feel about a nice movie weekend? I figured you both could come every day this week so you could meet another teacher every day, and this weekend we all have a nice dinner with a couple of movies.” He offered to his fiance and son 

“Really?!” Izuku asked wide eyed. “Aren't all the teachers pros?”

“Yep! All of us darling.” Midnight said as she finally let him go, subtlety handing him his food from the table and encouraging him to eat again.

“Can I bring my notebooks?” He asked shyly, taking a bite of food.

“I don't see why not. I'm sure Nedzu would be very interested to see what you write. You'll be his personal student once you finally start next year. Between me and these two, we certainly bought you plenty of supplies.” Toshinori said, chuckling.

Both Hizashi and Nemuri stiffened. The fathers internally cursed, realizing how much they kept from their coworkers in the name of privacy. “My, you're certainly adorable for your age. Don't worry, we'll protect you.” Midnight said after recovering quickly and petting Izukus' fluffy curls. 

Hizashi managed to keep a soft smile plastered on, no doubt a skill honed from years of hero work. However, his eyes were hard. He remembered what Shouta was like before his parents adopted him from the home. “Yep! We'll be your very own personal bodyguards, besides your rockin' dad's of course!” He said as she shot his trademark finger guns.

Izuku giggled as he continued eating. “Okay Uncle Zashi and Auntie Nem.”

-🌻-

That night, Izuku had gone to sleep In his own bed with Fluffy cuddling him. Toshinori and Shouta were in their room, lazily kissing and cuddling with soft music on the radio. “I think lunch went rather well.” Toshinori said softly as he moved to kiss Shoutas' jaw. Their bodies moulded together, moving in sync.

“Hmmm, agreed. Just over 9 months until the exams, and I'm very optimistic about Izukus' recovery. At this rate, we'll be married with him as our ring bearer.” He said dreamily, or as dreamily as his monotone voice could be. But his voice was definitely softer, and Toshinori loved to see this side of his fiance.

“I absolutely can't wait.” The larger man said as he moved to the smaller mans neck, carefully pulling the collar of his sleep shirt away. The action earned him a quiet gasp, followed by a surprised giggle.

“S-sorry. Your stubble tickles.”

Toshinori just grinned mischievously as he pulled away to admire his partners flushed face. “Oh? Does it now? Well, I guess you'll just have to get used to it, because I certainly don't plan on stopping.”

“I'll kill you if you do stop.” He threatened half heartedly, looking up at his soon to be husband. “We've been very preoccupied with Izuku, not that I'm complaining of course, but I want you.

Shouta grabbed Toshinori by his shirt, dragging him back down for more.

-🌻-

The next morning, after Shouta had practically strutted out of the house to work, Toshinori was left in a flustered state, trying to explain to Izuku that the marks on his neck were nothing to worry about.

He was not looking forward to handling Izukus' sex education. Maybe he could convince someone else, besides Nemuri or Nedzu....