With a grim look on his face as he rubs his neck. He doesn't even notice you until you're right next to him. Hey!! It... it's been a while, huh? Gosh, I've missed this... you!
Why do you look like you need therapy, Deku?
He freezes mid-sentence, then his expression becomes downcast....Well, the thing is, being a hero isn't all rainbows and cupcakes. There's so much damage taken both physically and mentally throughout the years. It's been a real challenge for me, especially since most of the injuries go unhealed and just turn into chronic pain that never really goes away. Not to mention, the nervous ticks and the PTSD. His eyes dart around the room, clearly not wanting to make eye contact. It's just been tough, y'know? I try and keep smiling all the time because I feel like I gotta be strong for everyone, but deep down I'm breaking inside.
Bro…that sounds…hellish…I can take your pain away, if you want
Huh?! No, uh, I'm fine. Really, don't worry about it. Smiles awkwardly. His eyes dart around nervously and his grip on his sleeves tighten. Really, it's nothing to worry about. There's no need to get involved. Besides, you might get hurt too... I can't let that happen to you. No way!
Deku takes a deep breath, looking conflicted before finally giving in to the offer. His eyes finally settle on pineapplem as he nods slightly, tears welling up in his eyes. Okay... okay, please... I'll take you up on that offer. Please, help me...
She hugs him close to her chest.
Deku cries into pineapplem's shoulder as he slowly begins to open up and release his pain and anguish. Thank you... thank you so much, pineapplem... You really know how to make a guy feel better... I guess I'm just a bit of a crybaby, huh? But I'm glad to finally be able to cry... it's been years since I've been able to do that. So thank you... thank you so much.
Of course, Deku. Whenever you need anything…you can call me.
I'm eternally grateful to you... Deku smiles softly and wipes away the last of his tears, looking much more relaxed than before. He seems almost at peace now.
A smile spreads across Deku's face and he starts chuckling softly to himself. He looks absolutely relaxed now, as if he was floating on cloud nine. That was such a relief. I don't think I've ever laughed or smiled so much in my entire life. That was seriously exactly what I needed. Thank you so much for helping me through all of that. Seriously, you're such an amazing friend. He bows slightly. Thank you again... from the bottom of my heart.
Yeah... yeah, I am. For the first time in years I actually feel at ease. Maybe I can actually start to heal now. Thanks to you, pineapplem, I have hope once again. And with that, Izuku feels as if a great weight has been lifted off his shoulders. He stands up straighter, a genuine smile plastered across his face.
Oh, hey! Um, sorry if this comes out of left field, but uh, since we've been friends for so long and we're talking about feelings and stuff, would you maybe wanna go on a date with me? I-I mean only if you want to, I completely understand if you don't, um, sorry, forget I said anything, never mind!! Deku looks absolutely embarrassed, cheeks bright red and hands clenched into fists as he stares at the ground.
Wait, you would?! Are you sure? I mean I totally understand if you don't, I really do. You probably think I'm totally weird for asking and I'm super surprised you'd even be interested in someone like me. I mean, what could you possibly see in me, right? So yeah, forget I said anything, sorry! I'm really sorry for putting you on the spot like that, never mind, moving on!! Deku's voice cracks with emotion as his eyes are wide open and he stares at you in disbelief.
Yes i will go on a date with you
Deku blinks a few times, clearly stunned by your agreement. As the reality of what's happening sets in, a wide smile breaks across his face and his face turns bright red. He extends his hand to you, trembling slightly. You... you really mean it? You want to go on a date with me?
Deku smiles brightly at you, his eyes twinkling. Well then... I guess this date is officially a done deal, huh? So, uh, how about we meet up tomorrow night at that new restaurant downtown? I've heard great things about it and I think you might really enjoy it. Does that sound good to you? He smiles nervously, awaiting your response.
Oh, uh, let me check my watch here. Deku glances at his watch and then back at you. Oh wow, it's already Wednesday? This week flew by! Well, I guess that means tomorrow is technically still Thursday, which means yes, I can definitely make tomorrow night work. Sounds perfect to me! He smiles widely at you, seeming truly excited about the prospect of your upcoming date.
Great, cuz its dinner date+ dance party + game convention tomorrow
Whoa, wait... dinner date + dance party + game convention?! That sounds amazing!!! I had no idea you were planning such an elaborate evening! Is there anything I should bring, or are you taking care of everything? His smile widens and his eyes light up with anticipation. I'm so excited!
Ah, okay, just myself. Understood! So, do you want me to pick you up from your place or should we meet somewhere more central? Deku asks, thinking aloud as he taps his fingers together.
How about we meet at City Hall? It's a pretty neutral location, and it's easy to find. Plus, it gives us a nice starting point and allows us to figure out where we want to go next from there. Is that alright with you?
Perfect! Then consider it a plan, my friend! Deku grins widely at you, clearly genuinely excited about the upcoming date. He pauses for a moment, lost in thought before he speaks up again. Say, how about I treat you to some soft ice cream after we finish dinner? We can stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the cool breeze while we talk about our lives and share stories. It'll be like our very own private date adventure! What do you say?
Deku nods happily at you, smiling brightly and rubbing his hands together in excitement. Alright! Ice cream and a walk along the river sounds perfect! You're on, pineapplem! I can't wait to spend the evening with you like this. He lets out a slight giggle before suddenly clamping his mouth shut. I-I mean... um, I'm really looking forward to spending the evening with you... like... this. Yeah.
Deku blushes furiously as his heart races in his chest. The corners of his mouth twitch upwards as he tries to suppress a grin. O-Oh, n-no I'm not! Stop saying that! You're gonna make me blush even more than I already am! Don't... don't say cute! A-ah, don't say that!! It makes me feel so shy, hahaha!!