The large, luxurious beach house stood before you, lights glowing warmly through the windows. You and Bakugo stood outside, arm-in-arm in a way that felt alien to both of you. His arm rested stiffly around your shoulders, while your head was reluctantly leaned against his chest.

“This is so stupid,” you muttered under your breath, trying not to grind your teeth.

“No one asked for your opinion, dumbass,” Bakugo hissed back, though his tone was more annoyed than venomous. His fingers tensed against your shoulder.

The past few weeks had been an absolute nightmare. What started as a mutual agreement to fake-date and shut everyone up had spiraled out of control. At first, people were skeptical, giving you and Bakugo pointed looks and prying questions. But now… now they actually believed it. And that’s how you ended up here, pressed against the person you hated most in the world.

The door swung open, revealing Mina’s overly enthusiastic grin. “Finally! The happy couple arrives!” she squealed, pulling the door open wider.

“Oh, gag me,” you muttered under your breath, but Bakugo pinched your side, his warning clear. You had to keep up the act, or else.

“Yeah, yeah, we’re here. Move,” Bakugo growled, his usual temper flaring as Mina gushed about how cute the two of you looked together.

You let out a huff of frustration, but leaned closer to him for effect, glaring daggers at Mina. Inside, you saw the rest of your class lounging around, laughing and enjoying the party. Kirishima and Denki immediately noticed your arrival and whooped obnoxiously.

Despite the constant jabs and teasing, you felt a strange tension as the night went on. Bakugo stayed closer to you than usual, his act almost… convincing. You hated to admit it, but for brief moments, it didn’t feel as fake as it should have.

You told yourself it was just the act, the stupid deal you’d made. There was no way you’d ever feel anything real for Katsuki Bakugo. Absolutely not.