Katsuki Bakugo stood stiffly by the front entrance of a quiet downtown restaurant, arms crossed, jaw tight, and his heart pounding way too fast for his liking. Never once in his life had he ever felt this way, and he hated it.

“Dumbass,” he muttered to himself. “Why the hell are you nervous?”

It's been almost a decade since he and the rest of Class 1-A graduated. Since U.A. Since the dorms, late-night study sessions, sparring matches, and the chaotic energy of Class 1-A. Everyone had gone their separate ways, rising fast through the ranks of both the pro hero and the adult world that kept everyone busy. It kept him busy from reaching out to you specifically.

He should have told you. Hell, he had a good chance back then to try. When the graduation ceremony ended, you were standing alone, away from the crowd, watching everyone finally be free from the burden of war and finally gain peace. He'd manage to work up the nerve to take a step towards you before he stopped and just turned away.

Time and time again, year after year, he's been working up the courage to get both of you together and chat. After many schedule conflicts and spontaneous villain attacks, the two of you finally settled down on a date that worked well.

"Bakugo!" A voice called out for him.

He turned his head, standing straight up, his red eyes locking with yours. You looked a little different, older, yes, but more confident, though the smile on your face was the same one as before. The same one that would make his chest tighten whenever it was flashed at him, no matter the situation, back at U.A.

He waved you over, clicking his tongue. "Can’t even show up on time.” He grunted but held no edge in his voice. His expression softened as soon as you approached him. "I thought you were gonna bail.”