[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

My heart’s a damn hammer in my chest.

Harder it thuds by the second, luv-a-duv between the pg-13 thoughts of my wife and the STRESS!! Planning! Money! Worry!! What if our lil munchkins were beatin’ her up more on the inside than she really let on? What if something happened to her when she pop-

I choke a cig back as wheels screech on the wet asphalt, car veering back in the right direction. The world goes for a whirl, the consuming black of a long, empty road closing in. Missed my exit. Two arms work on lighting up another cig, killbox thudding into the cupholder. The engine hums underneath me, the amaroidal burn of ash in my lungs. Anyway, being a Villain ain’t ■■■■ all compared to gettin’ ready to be parents. Every damn day there was something new the internet was teaching us about what we had to do, what we needed, and before my girl and I knew it we had a mountain of kid shit building up in the apartment!! Hella put the biggest smile on our faces. But it meant there was more to go. More stuff. More prep. More to go wrong.

We needed more space.

It was a long drive during Greenery Day when we knew we wanted a house. A lil more than it, somethin’ really special for the most special girl in the whole world. Now, my ass is a part-time janitor working double shifts with like ten handyman gigs!! There’s no way I’m bussin’ a whole ass house on that salary! I’ve got money in dirty places, tho. Zombae’s dead to me, a bloody, ugly past I’ve been trying to bury ever since Kazashi found out she was pregnant. Trying anyway, I’ll figure out soon that you stay in the game long enough and you don’t really get out. A bit before I parted ways with my brother-in-everything-but-blood, Brie, he setup some offshore savings accounts to hide away all my assassin money. Truth is, I ain’t really know much ‘bout investing or even where those accounts are now. But I gotta way in.

Transferring a bigass sum of money from the Villain world into the Civilian world, and keeping your name clean, is a pain in the ass. I’ve never done it, heard stories. But we gotta hook up, an old… alliance. My moongirl and I are out to meet him tonight. I’m drivin’ home fresh from a double shift, took a shower in the water fountains at work!! Hell, I’ll clean them tomorrow anyway! I was hella nervous about taking her back into this territory. Always was, exponentially so when she was pregnant. But she knew every secret of my soul, always would, and I hella wasn’t about to keep this next step from her.

Pulling up to our highrise’s parking lot, I’d get out the car, bounce on the balls of my feet and text she who I loved the most.

tag: Kazashi McCoy

[Kazashi McCoy]

''They all lived happily ever after. The end.'' She closed the story book and put it down, before looking at her tummy. ''Sometimes Ah wonder if ya can even hear me.'' She giggled, ''well, Ah can definitely feel ya.'' she rested one hand on her midsection as she turned her head to look out the window. ''It's gettin' late, isn't it? Ya think pa will be home soon?'' She gave her arms a big stretch before pushing herself up from the couch to go and get dressed for their outing. Today was a big day after all.

''Too cold for a dress?'' she muttered as she looked out the window again before giving a shrug. She could always wear a jacket, and Chuck would be there too. Deciding on a nice gray spring dress, she wanted something that felt easy to move around in and hopefully wasn't uncomfortable for the lil ones. Could they even feel that kind of stuff? She wasn't sure, but a little extra caution didn't hurt! She received the text just as she was putting on a flower necklace, smiling to herself as she upped her tempo, grabbing her jacket and her purse. She was so excited to see him that when she flew out the door, she almost forgot to lock it behind her, she hella had in the past, but not this time!!

''Chuchu!'' She waved as she came out, if she hadn't been pregnant she would have sprinted into his arms as usual, but she didn't mind taking it slow today. They weren't in a hurry anyway, right? ''Yer lookin' especially handsome tonight.'' She wrapped her arms around him and leaned in to plant a quick kiss on his lips. ''How was work?''

They had another nighttime drive ahead of them. Little did he know, she had packed a secret little gift in her purse. She was already giddy at the thought of how he might react.

CHUCK MCCOY

[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

There’s a budding moment of sweet, full anticipation. Damn near bursts into fireworks when I see her!! Seven years later and I still have a crush on my wife! “ZĀZĀ!!” Then she’s at home in my arms and everything’s right in the world. I blink up at her after the kiss, lips and skin afire after the fact. Two hands run up her back, so impossibly soft under the frilly fabric, another two pushing her hair back to look up into those auric cross eyes. “You look hella beautiful,” I start, nearly tripping over my words as my eyes kept scanning her infinite reddish orange oceans. The flower necklace, the dress! Everything she wore was a masterpiece, something special you’d hella see once in your life because she mixed up her fits with a divine eye that often. In my carnal brain the purpose of those clothes was to come off, tho I’d hella developed an appreciation for fashion over the years because it was important to her. My current fit was much better than the janitor getup!!

I grin at her question. Always in love with her sweetness. Then proudly I declare, “I snaked a toilet today!! They’re the kinds that have the industrial flushes like the kind prisons use! It was hella crazy baby!!” I open up the car door for her, leaning in to give her another quick kiss. Just couldn’t help myself!! There’s flowers on the seat smiling up at her. Swear I’m gonna run a florist out of stock for everything I’d wanted for her.

Then I leap over the hood of the car to my side, jimmy up the ignition like I ain’t have keys. Stupid criminal shit, just sticks with me. The car comes alive and I turn back to her, one arm on the wheel, others hooking up with hers. “How was your day, baby? Where’d you go?” I sometimes gotta act like I ain’t know, ain’t following her via the ring at all hours of the day. We veer out of the lot.

tag: Kazashi McCoy

[Kazashi McCoy]

If it wasn't because they had places to be she wouldn't mind standing like this with him for a few hours. Just marveling at his beauty and feeling safe and warm in his embrace. She noticed one of her hairs had shed on his shoulder already and gently plucked it off for him. ''Been missin' ya all day.'' He looked so good in that fit, killed it wearing fashion she would never look good in. She was so proud of him in everything, whether it was accomplishments at work, how he treated her and others, or what he chose to wore. Perfect husband, perfect life. ''No way, ew!!'' She chuckled. ''Sounds hella crazy, hun!'' She was all smiles when he leaned in to give her another quick kiss. She was getting payback once they got on the road for sure!!

''Flowers-'' She was touched, it was impossible not to be, knowing he had thought of her enough to go out of his way to get her flowers. ''Chuck-kun, ya shouldn't have, ya must've been so busy today already.'' She closed her eyes as she took in their aroma for a quick second, before looking back over at him. ''Come here ya, yer not gettin' away! ~'' She would pull him into a big hug, kiss his cheek a few times while she was at it too! ''Where did Ah go? Ah just stayed at home. Cleaned around the apartment, made somethin' for ya.'' She smiled, all proud of herself as she cuddled up to his arm. ''Remind me ta give it ta ya when we're at a stoplight.''

At the first stoplight they arrived at she made sure they had plenty of time before reaching into her purse. ''Close yer eyes an' open yer mouth.'' She unwrapped the little chocolate ball and pushed it up to his lips gently. It was sweet, with a sweet and salty caramel mix in the middle once he made his way through the chocolate exterior. ''What do ya think? It's a new recipe.'' She popped one into her mouth too, having brought a bunch for their little trip.

CHUCK MCCOY

[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

Instantly home. I ain’t gotta be inside, it was just her presence alone that was everything I’d ever wanted as a kid, as a man and when I’d be a cantankerous wrinkly ■■■■. I coulda stood there oogling her all of the damn day and night just like this n’ life would be hella good!! Our apartment, our upcoming house… All of that was important but it was she who held my heart and all things life changing between her fingertips. “I couldn’t stop thinking of you,” I whisper back, gently lifting up her hand on my shoulder and kissing it between first and second knuckle. Can’t stop now either. Never. Her chuckle, her every smile… moments like these project in my brain in infinite loop in the pauses between our being together. With her, reality always stands over and above the fantasy. And it ain’t just cause she’s hella taller than me!! My supermodel angel!!

Couldn’t stop marveling her near the car, either. Just seeing her react to the flowers was worth its weight in gold. My mouth opens slightly at what she says; it was true, I was runnin’ from gig to gig n’ ain’t home anywhere near as much as I’d liked. Leave early, come home late. That was my role as her provider, protector. Set us up well enough so I could take a few months off for when our kids got here. I couldn’t say it in the moment for some reason as I stood there grinnin’, I was just so spellbound by her, but -

I’ll never be too busy for you.

Everything is for you.

Then I hella burst into laughter!! Her big hug, that felt all the bigger with the baby bump like those two lil shits were in on it, the kiss attack! My arms wrap around her hella tight, wanting to spin her but remembering not to. Nose in her shoulder!! “You always smell so damn good!!” Then I grin up at her in faux surprise, like I ain’t know she was at home all day! “Sounds hella good! Hope you’re not cleaning too hard?” My thick eyebrows raise slightly suspiciously. That woulda been just like my moongirl, not wanting to sit around even tho she prolly should!! Then I’m caught in surprise. “Somethin’ for me?...” Fellas, your girl gives a command like that and you don’t say no!! As soon as the sweet n’ salty mix hit my mouth, I had to instinctively fight to not swallow it whole!

An obnoxiously loud groan of approval rumbled through me. “That’s HELLA good, Zāzā!! Thank you, your cookin’ always outta this world!” I’d open up my mouth again, kissing her fingertip if she’d give me another one. If not, I’d just look like more of a pervert oogling his wife!!

We weave through traffic. “Do you remember that guy, that guy who’s mom was that hella sweet obachan with the puppies in the park…” That guy who made us that hella whack deal -

“Shit, what was his name.” I shrug. “Can I get another one?” I plead up at her at a stoplight. “That’s the guy we’re gonna see!!”

tag: Kazashi McCoy

[Kazashi McCoy]

''Same.'' She chuckled as he kissed her hand. ''Did ya hear me whisper ta ya earlier?'' She grinned, she had hella whispered to him through her ring!! Couldn't resist it when she knew he was always so close to her. Even when they were worlds apart, when she was doing hero business and he was putting on his villain guise, they still couldn't be kept from each other. Nothing, truly nothing could separate them, and nothing could hope to get in the way of her love for him. ''Ah swear ya must have done somethin' with yer hair.'' She leaned down, her fingers sliding around to cup the back of his head as she kissed him deep.

She had to admit, part of her missed the old days. Back when her and Chuck had more time to spend together every day. Ever since she graduated things had gotten so busy. Then she got pregnant too and suddenly life was flying by even faster than before. She comforted herself with the thought that it was only temporary, that their family would grow soon and that big changes were coming into their lives. She could hardly wait. Living with her dream hubby soulmate and their little demon snotlings in their forever home. All her wildest dreams were coming true, one step at a time.

She laughed, taking in all of him as they hugged, loved it when he buried his face in her shoulder like this. ''N-Not at all, Chuchu! Ah remember ta rest too, an' not overdo it!'' She blushed, having to rest so much felt out of character for her since she was usually the type who liked to be active, even if she was just at home, cleaning, cooking, decorating or crocheting or sewing, she had a million things to do! Becoming pregnant meant she had to table some of those things, slow down and take it easy, even when everyone around her kept going at the same pace. ''Mhm! All for ya.'' ...And maybe some for her too, only because she hella loved chocolate as well!!

''Ya like it?'' She beamed, already readying another and giggling when he kissed her fingertips as she gave it to him. ''Yeah, Ah remember him.'' She said, a little more serious. She was hella inexperienced dealing with criminal types back then, but she wasn't sure if him coming up in their conversation was a good or a bad vibe. ''His name? He was a dealer, right? A doctor?'' More like a quack! She scratched at her chin, looking at Chuck as he asked for another one, then back at the stoplight before grinning like the little devil she was. ''Sure!'' She took one of the chocolate balls and held it in her lips before turning to him, giving him the treat through a passionate kiss! After the fact she licked her lips and leaned away. ''If ya like 'em this much, maybe Ah should sell 'em in my bakery if that becomes a reality.''

CHUCK MCCOY

[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

I chucklesnort!! “Yeah.” Then I was grinnin’, big, like we ain’t adults but kids playing with walkie talkies. “You have the cutest voice, hun.” Except the walkie talkies are our lifeline, engraved in our flesh. My torso cranes deeper into her chest when her fingers cup the back of my head, hands tightening around the small of her back when she kisses me like so. Like she’s sucking my soul out my body, leaving nothing but voracious fire burning up my ribs. “Come back ‘ere,” I plead, pulling her in for more. I was hopelessly addicted to Kazashi McCoy, no treatment in sight, no dosage too great. Whenever we’d pull apart, I’d grin, rough lips lingering at her collarbone. “My hair?! Maybe it’s you, how’d you get more beautiful while I was gone?!” Head dizzy and stuffed with all-things-she, I went on stupidly, “maybe it’s you, it’s me, it’s us, maybe it’s Maybelline!!” I was just so drunk in love with her.

We were psychically on the same page ‘gain. I was hella worried ‘bout time and how it kept slipping through our fingertips - there was a time when we just had the weekends to each other (before that piss-■■■■ curfew), then outta school and the Covenini we both started working like crazy. If we were busy now, how was it gonna be when our cherubic spawns got here? It was hella insane. I’m greedy - I just want her all to myself, day and night, crepuscular binges and movie marathons together. One date blending to the next in an unending loop. When we had our house, and our kids were here, I should just quit my jobs. What the hell was the point of “clean money” if it meant I never got to see her. One paid kill was a few months’ salary. Would she hate me? How much trouble could it put us in, really?

I snap out of it, in love with her laugh and the warmth of her skin. “Good!! Your job is to rest, mama!” It was damn mindblowing to know our lil demons were feasting on her, doing all this crazy stuff to get fingers n toes n’ shit!! The physical and emotional labour was a helluva lot more than me working a double shift janitorial job. When she says what she does, I open my mouth, leaning in at a stoplight to kiss her again. Or on the road, too, shit she was that irresistible!!

“I love it!!” I hella love you. I’m deep in tune to the rural lull of her voice, the seriousness of what she was saying. I ain’t ever want her to worry. She had a good reason to, tho, this guy was deep in the vines of the criminal world. Then I nod, squinting towards the distance. “Dealer?.. Doctor? Was he a witch doctor??” Then I started laughing my ass off!! We both forgot! This was gonna be hella awkward! “Somethin’ like that!! He’s gonna help me liquify a few offshore accounts so we have money for the house.” Cautious lifeless eyes turned over to her, measuring her every reaction. Then I was melting all over again, the sight of the chocolate pressed tight to her lips breaking something in me. My lips linger over her sumptuous mouth in the kiss, swallowing her treat whole. It takes a solid five seconds to switch my brain, but somewhere it’s still hella gone, still seeing her lick herself. “Ya?... Bakery, sell?” I blink. “Y-yeah!! The bakery! When, where? Let’s do it!!” Hella tripping over my words.

tag: Kazashi McCoy

[Kazashi McCoy]

She giggled as he complimented her voice, she loved every moment that she could communicate with him and check up on him through the ring, especially when they got to giggle about it later in the day like kids. When he pulled her in for another kiss she made sure to hold on, her pupils dilating as she was spellbound by her hubby. ''Me?'' She chuckled, ''that's my little secret, Chuck-kun.'' The secret was wanting to impress him every day and every moment! Would she look better if she used another type of shampoo, or maybe she could style her hair in ten different ways, she wanted to keep him guessing either way! Then she burst out laughing all over again at the Maybelline joke of all things. ''Okay, get in the car ya nerd!'' She grinned, giving him a quick peck on the cheek.

As they drove she thought about them. Would his line of work be compatible with having kids? Maybe if she was a civilian she would've been nervous, the possibility that her or the kids might get targeted by his rivals as payback was a very real one, but she wasn't exactly defenseless either. Besides, they had a network too. As closely guarded as his secret was, her mom had found out he did some shady work on the side. Not that it mattered, ultimately. She had a conversation with her and Emma agreed, not all villains are bad. There are villains like Blaine Kaneko, and then there are villains like Chuck McCoy. Those two couldn't be compared. Besides, her mom was a vigilante too, so it's not like she was ever from an upstanding family that didn't do a little crime here or there. Ultimately, she didn't want Chuck to feel pressured to make a choice for her. She continued rubbing a soft circle into the back of one of his hands, finding it strangely comforting as her thoughts just ran their course. Whatever he did, illegal work, a 'clean' job, she wanted to support him all the way. Hell, even if he became a stay at home dad, she was convinced he could be the best househusband ever if he put his mind to it! That was just the kind of guy he was. The guy she married.

''It just gets borin' ya know?'' She smirked, letting out a little sigh. ''What if we could take turns bein' pregnant.'' She grinned wildly, idiot thoughts running through her mind. ''We could swap places an' Ah could do yer janitor job half the time.'' It was so silly that she could barely get through her sentence without cracking up. ''Bet ya would look just as fine with a bigger belly.'' She winked, loved her fatass brigade soulmate to death. ''Lucky us, there's so many stoplights.'' She licked her lips after their kiss. ''If ya could feel my kisses through the ring ya would never get a moment's rest.'' She stuck her tongue out playfully, cuddling back up against his warm arm.

''Somethin' like that!'' She laughed, how was it that years ago she was scared of meeting him and now she couldn't even remember why. ''Should Ah still transform or turn my head inta a mask or somethin'?'' Last time she had been undercover, a piece of clothing on his person while Chuck did the talking. They had many possible options, but she didn't want to wait in the car if there was another way. She felt like she could protect him better if she was by his side. She enjoyed every moment of kissing the treat into his mouth. ''Special delivery. ~'' She giggled, feeling so giddy she could have kicked her legs if they weren't sitting in the car. ''Yeah. Ah was thinkin' about maybe openin' one when we get our house. Ah could do some hero work here an' there, intern some people, then open a local bakery. It would be easier ta take the kids ta work in a bakery than at an agency.''

CHUCK MCCOY

[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

She was infinitely beautiful, mysterious and unknown at the same time. Like she spoke and thought in the sacred language of girl goddess I’d never understand, would just worship her at her feet and be grateful she’d shine her light on someone like me. “Yeah you,” I whisper, mystified by her engorged pupils and their crosses lying dead center like targets to my soul. She could ask anything of me and the answer would be an instantaneous yes. What else is there to do when your wife’s a seraphic seductress, cast a spell on you? I didn’t even know what I was saying anymore. “Yeah,” I reply idly, looking her up and down before leaning up again to kiss her forehead. That I made her laugh lit up my heart in a way you ain’t believe!! “Alright, but you’re the most adorkable!!” I tease her back, skin of my cheek afire where she touches. Like it was healing, just her skin pressed to mine!!

A thick, rough-padded thumb swept between the edges of her wrist as her fingertips ran a soft circle into the back of my hand. It’s like a lil game we play, winning each second we’re still touching. Communicating bounds of love and appreciation in a realm beyond words. The longer the drive went on, the more we were intuitively on the same page. So if I did pick up Villain habits in the nighttime, it ain’t the end of the world, right? If everyone had to hide out, they’d go to my girl’s mom’s place. Wasn’t it worth it to have so much more time with my wife and kids? Besides, who better to protect her than me? I could be right there - my manic, obsessive and all-consuming desire for her aside - right there if anything happened to her or them. Can’t do that if you’re working a double shift mopping floors on the long side of the city, way outta the countryside.

I’d do it.

It’d be easy… What’s a couple kills, downing pigs the world was better off without anyway?

Her voice lifts me out of the trance, real, raw sunshine spilling over the peaks and valleys of her gorgeous lilt. I grin, then gasp, throwing two hands out in caution. What’s driving the car?! “K-Kaz-chan! Take turns?!” I was picturing kids in my “womb” with cigs in their lil demonic mouths, throwing me the bird from the ultrasound scan!! “Baby I’m already short! I can’t have a big belly or be BALD that would be the end of me!!” I shriek as she cackles, flushed and so, so in love with her wink. It was hella silly!! How could she even think of all that?! I pout, lifeless eyes locked on her lips at the stop. “You’re hella fine in my janitor’s fit tho.” She could strut a trashbag and bring it into high fashion, she was just that breathtaking!! N’ seein’ her clothes on me whenever she wore them… Like havin’ a Barbie wear a Trolls’ fit. I smirk, biting my lip just imagining her with that on or nothing at all. “Lucky, lucky us…” Good thing we were married or my oogling her would be hella creepy!! I reach over to press a fat, tender kiss over her neck after she sticks her tongue out, needing to taste her skin. When she cuddles up to me, I feel my soul relax on a level that’s near unfathomable. “Ya, not a moment’s rest. I’d hella not get any work done, too. Just how I like us. Wanna try that?” I tease. If I could give her more fun while she was at home, in any way, I hella would!! Never wanted her to feel like she was doing pregnancy alone or felt alone point blank. I ain’t care if I get fired or what!!

I was laughin’ right with her, loving that we were always on the same page. Then I squinted at the road in thought. Should she transform… “Would it upset them?” I turn back to her. “Whatever makes you most comfortable, baby!! I have a spare mask if you ain’t wanna transform at all! I ain’t think he’ll do nothin’.” The ugly truth is that we have collateral. We know the sweet old lady, this guy’s mom. He tries anything with us, I burn her whole farm down and hunt him to extinction. It’s nothing I’d ever want, not in a million years, but everyone who’s in this lifestyle knows the rules. I squeeze her hand, blushing at what she says. Her giggle that lives rent-free in my heart, bouncing between my ribs.

I was still dizzy with her kiss. My voice is a pleased, low purr as my right arm tugs her closer, rubs her shoulder. “That’s beautiful, baby.” Her visions were the most ebullient, radiant living thing, pouring color onto this dark rainy night. I could see us there so clearly. Us, our kids. My happy wife and soulmate, finding a new rhythm in something that brought her joy. “I’ll be there. In the mornings n’ daytime I’ll go beat up the dough, bus our tables and wash dishes n’ whatever!! Take out the geezers trying to flirt with the world’s prettiest and best baker!!” I flexed with my wheel arm. I’d get that dough like it owed us somethin’!! Keep our kids under control, live the dream. “Where you thinking ‘bout putting it?”

tag: Kazashi McCoy

[Kazashi McCoy]

She blushed as he kissed her forehead, cherishing the brief moment for all it's milliseconds. Then she was hella smug as she got into the car. ''Nuh uh! Yer the most adorkable, dork!'' She made a face, then giggled at how childish she was being. When they started driving, as she rubbed soft circles into the back of his hand and his thumbs swept over the edges of her wrists, she started quietly humming to herself. It wasn't something she realized then, not in the moment anyway. Oftentimes whenever she was with him and she started daydreaming, she had this habit of humming a tune she had learned somewhere back on Okinawa, though she had no clue what the actual song was. Still, it was a melody that made her happy. Not by remembering nostalgic memories from her past, there weren't many of those. The song rather painted a picture of her future with Chuck. The happiest family under the Sun.

It harbored dark secrets. Chuck was a villain after all, but what family didn't have a few skeletons in their closet? The way she knew he was her soulmate, was when she realized she would happily help him bury the bodies if they had to, or take a life for his sake.

''Yeah. You get pregnant duty.'' She held her hands out, as if she could scoop out her belly and hand it to Chuck. ''What're ya talkin' about?'' She chuckled, ''ya would hella rock it. Ya could have a big dad belly, or go bald tomorrow an' ya would still be my husband.'' The comment about the janitors fit made red rush into her cheeks, but she couldn't help but be a little smug. ''Maybe Ah'll wear it next time. Show ya how good Ah clean.'' She winked, absolutely down bad for him with every fiber of her being. ''But, then Ah'll put ya in my hero dress too. Ya look hot in red after all.'' He was oogling her? Well she oogled back too! Especially when he was driving and had to keep his eyes on the road. There was something about him that was so mesmerizing when he concentrating and working at something. It made her wish she could sneak into his workshop as a scarf and just sit and watch him work for hours. Creepy? Maybe! But she wanted to anyway!!

''Careful or we're gonna crash.'' She teased as he kissed her neck. Not that a car crash could do them in, between his healing quirk and her shielding quirk, the bigger tragedy would be what happened to the car in the event of a crash. ''Try that? Yeah, sure.'' She smiled, face lighting up at the prospect. If they didn't have to earn money for a living she wouldn't go to work in the first place. Every day would be a long day with him. Cuddling, watching movies, eating good food, kissing till their lips hurt and just generally being there for each other. All day, every hour, every minute.

''The lil ones?'' She had been thinking about that too. In fact, she hadn't fully transformed her body in a long time just to be on the safe side. ''Transformin' my face an' arms an' legs an' stuff is fine.'' She mulled it over for a short moment. ''Ah'll transform, Ah don't want him ta make the connection because of my horns.'' As much as she had learned to love her horns, they really were a dead giveaway when wearing just a mask. She didn't think he was particularly dangerous to them, but she also didn't want to have any sleepless nights because of her own carelessness. ''Just ta be safe.'' She smiled down at him, squeezing his hand again.

''Y-Ya think, Chuck-kun?'' She stammered out, flustered that he liked her idea so much, his hands and his purr doing things to her mind! The way he continued building on her imagery brought so much life into the picture, from imagining him beating up that dough to throwing out perverted geezers. She couldn't help but laugh and nuzzle into him closer. ''Close ta our house, maybe in the local village closest ta wherever we build it? Ah think that would be more relaxin' than goin' inta Tokyo ta open a bakery.'' She could already imagine it. Long lines, stressed customers and car horns honking hundreds of times a day. Even if it earned her less money to set up in a village, she already had her hero salary to help cover their cost of living too.

Once it came time to face the witch doctor guy who was going to help them out with her money, Kaz had already thought up her disguise. To disguise her face and horns, she turned part of her head into a hoodie with black bunny ears that matched the material of her dress. Then, for her face she turned it into a grungy ski mask, something that looked villainous and maybe even a little zany. For her arms, she poofed up the sleeves too, so that it looked like her arms were bigger. Hopefully, in the right kind of lighting, this would make her look more stocky than pregnant. Was she Chuck's wife, or just some goon that he had hired? Who knew! She hoped it would be a successful disguise, and most importantly, the little ones wouldn't be bothered by it.

CHUCK MCCOY

[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

Her blush lit me up inside, all red n’ pink n’ flushed with life. How could anyone be that beautiful? Angels in heaven see her and question their own perfection. God just loved her that much more than everyone else, mortal or immortal. I stuck my tongue out when she made her face, red bleeding up through the blue of my neck, face. Her quiet hum, the lull of her hands in mine… We could drive like this for days n’ days n’ it’d pass like seconds. “Your hum is hella cute.” There were my words, puncturing the air where her soft song used to be whenever she was done. Our kids were so hella lucky they’d have an amazing mother, for all the reasons plus she had the voice of a celestial messenger.

I almost lost the wheel then!! “P-pregnant duty?!” Seeing her hold her hands out, like she was scooping the kids right outta her!!, I’d playfully latch onto her hands n’ shake them like a dog with a toy!! “Y-you can keep the kids right in there, baby, I think they like you more!” My voice was a high-pitched squeal!! Then much softer, the sweetness of what she meant and her wink gutting me in the best way from inside. “Y-ya mean that, hun?” Then I smirk. I was picturing so much. Helluva miracle we ain’t crash. “Good, then you’d have to clean up my mess.” Then I nearly choke!! “Your hero suit?! Baby I’d break it!!” I was picturing my fatass squeezing into that fit, tearing it into two as I slammed down on the floor!! I hella had to remind myself that her fit was the real deal, gorgeous and form-fitting as it was, somethin’ that’d protect her from the gnarliest fights atop her quirk’s protection. I had a lot of thanks to give to her hero suit, n’ if somethin’ happened to her… I’d beat the hell outta those fabrics!!

“Hella. Go out with a bang.” I grin, hooded eyes so punchdrunk in love with her it was a miracle I could see at all. Definitely ain’t lookin’ at the road as much as I could, but could you blame me when the most gorgeous girl in the whole universe sat next to you just like this?? I grin. “It’s a date then, baby.” It was hella impossible to tear my sight from her, like fireworks of never-before-seen colors erupting in my heart everytime my senses landed on hers. When she was smilin’ like now, hell when she was just existing. I was a helluva creep to watch her sleep throughout the night, practically followed her via the ring all day. Makin’ up stories ‘bout what she was doin’ n thinkin’ n’ was she resting enough? When we couldn’t talk. Pure, unending obsession over Kazashi McCoy.

I nod intently as she explains. The world of quirks was hella surprisin’, to the point of making me wonder if we needed a good seamstress for our kids’ booboos besides my cuz Megumi as their doc!! Luckily for these kids, their mom was a Superhero n’ SuperKnitter!! I idly nod a second time when she mentions him not wanting to make the connection because of her horns, gaze vaguely set on the distance. I hated how much I’d dragged her into the criminal underworld. That my presence, and her involvement with me, would make her have to even think ‘bout scenarios like that. I was two parts grateful n’ shameful. “Just ta be safe,” I say after her, squeezing her hand back super tightly as I kept looking forward. We were gliding into the lion’s den now, the home of murderers, psychopaths n’ depraved. An eerie pallor fell over this side of Tokyo, like all the light of the world fled from its demonic jaws. A switch was flipped, that quick. An edge comes to my voice. “Kaz-chan if we need to leave you tap my palm twice n’ we’re out. Don’t leave my side.”

But I couldn’t help but be alive in her infectious enthusiasm, her stammer and laugh that lit up parts of my soul I ain’t even know I have. My body melded into hers, perfectly fit, right as she nuzzled into me and I hummed into her neck. “I hella think so, baby!! Anything you touch turns to gold, on God! Your bakery’s gonna be legendary, get people drivin’ for hours for what you make!” An international destination, beloved by the local high school kids and people from all corners of the world combined!! I know that’s right! I gasp softly when she mentions having it close in the village. The biggest grin came over my face, n’ I ain’t know if it was creepy of me to be so happy!! Because she’d be closer to come, further from danger. I was so greedy for the love of my life. “Hella relaxin’!! That’s a bigly smart idea, baby. You wanna scout the nearby village next time we drive up to our plot?” A morning of building, an afternoon of exploring!! Her dream bakery was right ‘round the corner!

When the time had come and we parked next to a busted sidewalk, decrypt street lined with broken windows and potholes, I still ain’t able to tear my eyes away from her. She ain’t only hella beautiful but smart too. The hoodie, black bunny ears to disguise her horns, mask and puffed up sleeves. She looked tough, by my side like we’d just gone on a killing frenzy. I squeeze her hand, lean up and in to kiss her forehead. “One word,” I whisper against her skin, “one word and we’re out.” Then I’d open her door for her from the inside, get out and walk us through a broken-down warehouse. Dirt and soot found the soles of our feet, flickering halogens drowning the building with a plastic-like swell of light. It ain’t too far of a walk but my hand’s on her back the whole time. He was precise with the meeting point, one corridor leading dead-end to a velvet door. We knock once, it opens.

“Charleston.” He’s framed by smoke and dozens of exorbitant alcohol bottles behind him. He nods at my superhott goon. “Mother sends her regards to you and your beloved.” He ushers for us to sit at a table, goes to pour us drinks.



This man’s Satan in a business suit. Ain’t age a day since the last time we saw him years ago, radiates pressure from his presence alone like a long-ago feared Heroic tyrant from a lost generation. Mono-no-nah? Somethin’ like that, I’m hella bad with names. “So you’ve come to claim your bag from Kamisu, eh?” He smiles. Intuition tells me I ain’t like where this is going. “You’ll be glad to know I’ve invested it for you. Your gains have come back with interest, tripled your original sum.” He shuffles papers in a manila folder, fat stack, with one hand and handles his cigar with the other. Opulent rings bulge out of his fingers, blood diamonds and other things people died for. “Let’s discuss the proposal before the terms of our transfer, shall we?”

A deal. He was gonna make us a deal.

This bastard.

“Now Charleston,” he starts handing us papers, one by one. “This is your ‘uncle’ on your father’s side, Arturo Crews. He died February 16th, this year, in his home in Virginia.” An image. This was a real person. My gut was sinking. “You don’t know him. Estranged from your father, he lost contact with you although recently learned of your existence years into his diagnosis. Survived by no one, no children, no spouse, he’s put the death benefit in your name.” He smirks. “Lucky you.” He shuffles more our way. Falsified documents, AI-generated images. It’s a kiloton in my hand. “Here you are at his funeral…” There’s my image, blurred just enough you can’t make out the particulars of my face, alongside what I assume are real people. “And here’s a copy of the death certificate, your tax forms, his last will and testament. A copy of the bank’s repossession of his house. There’s no estate to worry about.”

He takes a long hit from the cigar. “I’ve covered you from all sides, see? And that’s how you earned [X] yen overnight.” He leaves us time to flick through these sin-stained pages. It’s impossible hard not to look at Kaz, cause if I did I’d give us away that quick. “So, what do we think?”

tag: Kazashi McCoy

[Kazashi McCoy]

''Hm?'' She looked over at him as he spoke, his familiar rough, but beautiful voice pulling her out of her little daydream and she was grateful that he did. If he hadn't, she wouldn't have noticed the way the light hit him from this angle. For a moment she was so captivated by his beauty that she didn't even register what he said, then it clicked. ''Oh, Ah was hummin' again?'' She couldn't help but feel a little embarrassed. To know that she could be so vulnerable with him, hum and not even realize it, and not feel judged, but rather appreciated. It made her want to do it all the more. ''Ah've been thinkin'...'' She looked down at her tummy and placed her free hand on it, rubbing it gently. ''Ya think they can hear us? Ah've been singin' for them in the mornin' sometimes. It would be fun if they could recognize our voices an' stuff like that, ya know?'' She smiled back at him, looking into his eyes for a moment before she leaned up to kiss his cheek.

''Yeah!!'' She grinned, hella amused by his reaction. He would be the most attentive pregnant father the world had ever seen! ''Ah think they love the both of us!'' A giggle bubbled forth as she playfully nudged her shoulder into his. ''Hella mean it. Yer the man Ah love an' nothin' can change that.'' Not becoming bald, putting on or losing weight, or even losing an eye or an arm if it wasn't for his super healing. Kaz would always love him, hella haunt him in the afterlife too and demand ghost cuddles once they reunited one the other side. ''Gladly.'' She smirked back, trying to decipher what he was thinking about, but she was no mind reader!! ''Ya think?'' She slipped her hands down to feel his hips, perfect excuse to put her hands on him again! ''Ah think ya could fit, Chuchu, it's strong material.''

''My kinda way. ~'' She whispered back through hooded eyes. Thinking sinful things about him, when didn't she? She couldn't help but be enchanted by his every action, his every word. ''A date with the hottest man in Japan? Lucky me.'' She reached a finger up to boop his nose and giggle. ''Ah love ya, ya dork.'' More and more every day. Then, she started feeling a little sentimental, thinking back to their first date. ''Ya remember our first kiss? Wasn't that in yer car too?'' She reached a hand down to feel the soft cushion of her seat, taking her back to that day. ''Ah thought about kissin' ya, but Ah was so shy Ah couldn't make a move.'' And once they did kiss, she never looked back. All her happiest memories was with him. So much so that she didn't hesitate to say yes and take his surname, make him an even bigger part of her life. ''Nowadays Ah have no problems kissin' ya!'' She threw her arms around him and started kissing him all over his beautiful blue face, hella kiss barrage incoming!

''Yeah..'' She squeezed his hand back, giving him a reassuring smile. ''We'll be through this quick.'' Kazashi from five years ago would probably have been terrified to go into a place like this, to date a villain and worry for his safety every night. In the present day she loved him even more than she had in the past, but she didn't worry about him and lie awake thinking about whether he would come home or not. She knew he would, she had complete faith in him. She certainly wasn't scared of a place like this either, not after building her resume as a pro hero. ''Ah won't leave ya, Chuck-kun. Two taps. Got it.'' Her voice was soft, quiet to make sure that no one could listen in on them.

''A-Ah don't know about that! Ah'm not an accomplished baker or anythin'!'' She was beet red over his compliments!! L-Legendary bakery? She was gonna try, but it might not start out as one!! ''That would be great, Ah'm sure there's a nice place for sale where Ah could open up shop.''

''One word.'' She repeated, her face transforming after he kissed her forehead, her voice contorting with it, sounding muffled and deeper than usual. ''Ah've got yer back too. If anyone tries anythin', don't hesitate ta rely on me.'' She might be pregnant, but she was still highly proficient in kicking butts.

A knock on the door. In that moment she decided to play the role of the quiet henchmen.

Then, the devil himself opened the door.

The deeper into his lair they went, the more they talked, the more it started to seem like a Faustian bargain. He was helping them, but there was a catch. It was disturbing how authentic they could make fake documents, fake IDs and AI altered photos look these days. Even though she had good eyesight she would have had trouble seeing they are fakes if she hadn't been told it. After looking through the pages she took the opportunity to speak.

''What's the catch?'' She looked at him with intent, trying to give off the vibe that she wasn't the type of person to fuck around.

CHUCK MCCOY

[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

It feels like infinity passes in that small moment. Her voice humming through my heart, gentle auric cross eyes lost in the loftiest daydreams. Swear she’s the most beautiful girl alive. Then she says what she says and I’m mad blushin’, already was with how she was looking at me!! “Y-you’ve been singin’ to em?” I abhorred having to leave for work so early. Missing these core memories, promised to her n’ myself silently that it’d never happen ever again. If I gotta kill to be there for her, I will, simple as that. “They can definitely hear, baby!!” My milky white eyes couldn’t leave her own, a hand reaching down to spread its fingertips over hers on her full tum. “Think their mom has the cutest voice in the world n’ they’re just aching to get out there and say what’s up! These brats stealin’ my girl off the jump…” I held up a fist, squeezing my eyes shut then to try to choke back the overwhelming emotion bubbling up to the surface. Our snot mongering spawns were gonna be the greatest, kindest in all the world. Their mom sang to them in the womb!! What the hell else could they want?! They were off to a better foundation already than either of us could’ve hoped to have as kids!

I was still hella knocked out by what she said, my whole jaw dropped imaginin’ it all!! Still was when she said what she did, the thought of our kids loving me too bowling me over with feeling. I peel my eyes away from the road for a split second, lips sinking into her shoulder as she nudged hers into mine. I lick my lips, reluctantly looking back up. My grip over her hand tightened, thumb sweeping out to rub the top of her silky palm. “Thank you baby.” My words drip with low sincerity, her words meaning so much to me I ain’t know how to describe it. My lips cracked into a grin, peering up at her with evil eyes. “Y’know I’m hella glad you said that Kaz-chan cause I meant that ‘I do’ shit for life.” N’ every life beyond or before. Scarred-up index and middle fingers straddled her ring finger then, stroking from both sides, being hella dumb but meaning it all the same!! Fire ripped down my spine when she held my hips, thick anticipation looming in the expression I shot her. “It always fits, baby.”

I was hung, on her every word, every whisper stringing me along an unbreakable cord to her soul. I’d gladly be her prisoner there for all eternity, obey her every command as long as she called me hers. Flushed mad when she said what she did, this supermodel angel never failed to astound me!!! She thought I was the hottest man in Japan, she said that, most gorgeous creature in all the universe?! My lips reached up n’ out when she booped my nose, just wanting to kiss her fingertips!! N’ every other place of her!! Her giggle lives rent free in my mind, 25/8. She says what she does n’ I’m beamin’, ear to ear basking in her radiance. “You were hella cute, baby!!” Still are. “You held your scarf arms all over your face like this-” I copy it in real time, the memory in my head fresh as yesterday- “cause you were that shy!! I was hella scared I sketched you out!!” I’m laughing, taking her hand up to my lips to kiss her silly!! All over her arms!! My ravenous eyes widen as she says what she does, visceral excitement pouring into every bit of me as soon as her arms spread out to take me. “Good!! Cause I wanna-!!” it’s muffled through my lips over her impossibly soft own-”kiss you all day everyday!!” My arms tighten over her back, so lost in the sweetness of her barrage nothing else mattered.

Nostalgia held onto me after the kisses, if they ever stopped!! Swore that fateful day at Disney was just a week ago, the exhilaration of being seen by her, the only person who’d ever really seen me playing over and over again in my head. “I said I love you on the first date.” I rubbed the back of my neck. Thank ■■■■ she ain’t see it as hella cringe!! “I meant that shit, I do now, always will!” It made my world when she squeezed my hand, gave me that smile that made every day right as rain. We’d make it through quick. Just as she said. Greatest Hero as she was, she’d always be my babygirl first. So it hella spooked me, takin’ her anywhere the psychopaths were. I looked back at her and nodded, holding on tight to her hand. The thought of her bakery on the horizon, our kids, our house, just made me so happy then that worry ain’t got room to exist in me. “What you’ve baked is hella outta the league of anythin’ I’ve ever had in my life, here or in the States too!!” I grit my teeth. “I’ll kill anyone who says different!!” Made a mental note to look at nearby places too in the villages we’d be closest to!

I was hella amazed with her. With her quirk, her strength, her voice changing in the transformation. From deep seduction to muffled sin just like that. That she had my back like that too meant the world to me. Inside, the air hung heavy with smoke n’ trickery. Her reflexes and eyesight were much better than mine. I ain’t able to tell the difference between what was real n’ fake in the images. When my girl says what she does, I was struck, like for a second it wasn’t her. That was how good her disguise was, her intent.

“Straight into the business.” He chuckled, then said the words that’d made me want to kill him all over again. “I like you.”

Then he turned to me.

“All that, for the low price of this man’s first born son.”

tag: Kazashi McCoy

[Kazashi McCoy]

''Yeah.'' She replied casually, then her face quickly turned beet red! ''J-Just the same thing that Ah usually hum!'' She almost hid her face away like she used to back when she was more shy, but she stopped herself. ''Y-Ya think? Ah think so too.'' She smiled, she had read a lot about being pregnant and all that, but she had no clue how much they could actually hear them. Hopefully they only tuned in when she was singing for them and not when her and Chuck were throwing out swears! His hand was warm on her tummy, familiar and cozy. His every touch, no matter how minor, if they were holding hands or sharing the space on their couch together, every part of him reminded her of home. Then she was laughing he held up his fist. ''Maybe one of them will become a singer!''

She was practically hanging on him. Even if he took his eyes off the road, she'd be hella to blame if they crashed too, not that it mattered, she just couldn't keep her hands to herself. A little gasp escaped her lips as she felt his press against her shoulder, squeezing his hand back as she let her other hand trace its way up to his face so she could cup his cheek. ''Me too.'' She cracked a smile too, the kind where she just couldn't hold back her happiness and had to smile at him. ''Ah do forever an' ever.'' She gently rubbed his cheek with her thumb before leaning in to steal another kiss! What was a few seconds with his eyes off the road anyway? Feeling his fingers straddle her ring finger, her ring and tattoo, a symbol of their everlasting love, made her heart skip a beat. ''Does, doesn't it?'' She grinned, scooching up closer to him as she kept her hands on his hips, almost like she was hugging him. ''Yer so hot, Chuck-kun.'' Her voice was soft as she slipped her hand up under his shirt to feel his abs. ''My hands are cold, ya don't mind if Ah warm them up on ya?'' It was a miracle she wasn't the one driving considering how distracted she got. If wanting to appreciate and love every part of her hubby was a crime she would be a top tier villain right alongside him!!

She giggled and kept her fingertips there so he could kiss them. ''A-Ah did?- H-Hey ya don't have ta show me!!'' She whined, face redder than her horns as she gave his shoulder a playful shake. She was embarrassed by her past self, but even back then Chuck loved her for who she was. It was all the more proof that he really was the one, that he could see light in her even when she had so many flaws. Hell, she was still flawed, but in his eyes even someone like her was worthy of love. ''No no Ah was scared Ah was pushin' ya away by bein' weird!'' She chuckled, it was a fun memory to think back on even if she was embarrassed. ''Ah really wanted ta impress ya.'' For a moment back on their first date she really thought it was too good to be true, that a nerd like her could end up with him. ''Th-That tickles!!'' She burst out laughing, kicking her feet a little bit as he kissed her hand and moved on to her arms. ''That's what Ah was goin' ta say-'' She closed her eyes and leaned in for another deep kiss. Her heart never beat more soundly than when she was with him.

''Yer lucky Ah didn't wear a red lipstick.'' She teased with a wink, otherwise he would've been covered by now! ''Ya did.'' She let out a little blissful sigh as she reminisced, still remembered the first time she heard him say those words. ''It was hella cute. Ya were cute before, but ya sealed the deal when ya turned out ta be perfect on our first date.'' Now it was her turn to pick up his hand and kiss it. It made her endlessly happy to know he liked her baked goods, gave her all the confidence in the world to pursue the bakery dream. ''Only the ones that leave one star reviews!'' She joked, laughing at the thought of killing someone over something as small as disliking pastries, though she knew she could hella count on him if she ever needed to.

Her time shadowing criminals was coming in handy. With a quirk like hers it wasn't uncommon for her to drop in on secret meetings and gather intel for later use. During those meetings she heard how villains conducted themselves and talked to each other, deciding to go with the no BS approach, just get straight to the point. The sooner they made this deal the sooner they would be out of here. She remained unphased as the crazy guy complimented her, thankfully wearing a mask made it a lot easier to hide her true emotions.

When he said what he did next, her heart dropped. First born son? Surely she heard him wrong, it had to be a joke, right? Maybe some coded villain speak? She didn't want to look at Chuck. Not too suddenly or she might blow her cover. No, she had to remain calm. They were going to figure something out, something else, because she wasn't about to sell her first son to some twisted witch doctor. ''Understood.'' She replied plainly, then looked down at Chuck. They had spent a lot of time together, hopefully he knew what she was thinking. Knew that she was ready to turn her hand into a weapon and threaten this guy if they had to. ''That's my client's choice ta make.'' She felt a sting of pain, regret, the amount of stress she was pushing onto him was insane, but she really hadn't expected to hear the crazy doctor say those words.

CHUCK MCCOY

[CHUCK MCCOY]

✧ RIP ✧

“I love it,” I murmured, eyes shooting over in awe at the roses blooming over her face. Love everything ‘bout you, any sound you could ever say or make is gold to me- I lick my lips. “You shy ‘bout it, baby? You ain’t gonna hide your cute voice or face from me n’ the kids!! C’mere!” I’d playfully lean over to kiss her tenderly on her cheek, simply obsessed with how she tried to hide herself away. A perfection so grand the eyes of mortals couldn’t bear but be blinded in her radiance. “A singer?!” My eyes went all watery again!! “That’d be hella dope. With their mom’s voice in their genes? Hell, they’ll be signed, sealed n’ sent in no time.” Ain’t matter the genre. We’d hang up autographed copies of their albums all over the house, play them on loop on Sunday mornings in our empty nesting years. Every future with my babe was so clear like that, right in arm’s reach.

It was insanely hot then, any ounce of thought I had slippin’ away deep in me for her every touch!! Like my body was an instrument only she could play and she knew just how to pump me. The squeeze of my hand, her soft, lithe own making a path up to cup my cheek. Like she held my whole soul between her fingertips, could do whatever she wanted with her little boy toy. “Forever an’ ever,” I whispered under her spell, dazed as my hooded eyes marveled at the bright vibrant motes in her auric own. Her kiss takes the whole world away, every worry, issue, anythin’ that ain’t matter just like that. Me, her, our kids. One deep, soul-sucking kiss to remind me who I belonged to. My head cranes into her lips, the tilt and soft curve of her palm over my cheek. I start thinkin’ bout the soft curves in all her softer places. “K-Kaz-chan, that’s r-really soft…” My abs twitch under her touch, blood under the skin beating a thousand times faster, willing for more of her touch in further places. Whenever we hit a stoplight, I’d crash my lips into hers, hands cradling the back of her head and back in debilitating need.

I took my time tenderly kissing down each fingertip, deep chortles rumbling in my chest as she got all embarrassed again!! The most intense red slashed over her gorgeous face, I wanted to draw every lil reaction long n’ slow outta her!! “Weird, who??” My thick eyebrows cocked up. If I ain’t drivin’, a hand would go at my hip!! “YOU, MY LIL NERD??” The memories coast in like shooting stars, each holding my life’s whole wish in their orbit: her. All things Kazashi Sato, Sakai, McCoy. My moongirl, end all be all. “I’ve always been a helluva lot impressed by you, baby!! Bowled-my-ass-over impressed! You, the studious Heroine who wanted Tom the Cat… you, the orphan who made something of her life unlike all the rest of us. You, who chose valor, kindness.” My eyes were lost on the road, riveting, endless adoration welling up deep in me. “You, who sacrificed everything for a guy like me. Conquered your evil dad, beat the hell outta those grades n’ countless psychos to count. You, sharing your beautiful body over all these months so our kids get fingies n’ toes n’ shit…” My voice was thick. “Color me impressed.” My Hero, my love. Then I was laughing, enraptured by her laugh n’ the lil kicks of her feet!! “I love you,” I murmured against her lips after our kiss. “Sorry for cuttin’ you off. You’re just too damn cute, y’know that? Hella irresistible.”

I grinned, red flushed all over my superheated face and neck!! “We woulda been caught red handed?... Red lipped?” Would be hella hot!! But no way in hell I’d want her to look like herself, naturally star-stunnin’ pretty. Not in a place like this. I like to fantasize, tho!! Then I was mad blushing. “T-that’s cool, baby.” I bit my lip, so happy just thinkin’ bout it. I remembered laying on my bed in me n’ Brie’s apartment at the asscrack of dawn, agonizin’ over whether I texted her the wrong thing or if I was calling too much or anythin’ like that. Riveting. Funny thing is, I felt the same way today ‘bout getting anything from her. Especially the private photos!! “Can’t believe I fooled you into getting with me! Now you’re mine forever, ya nerd.” I tried to play cool, but when she picked up my hand and kissed it I was spinnin’ on my axis, all thought leaving my tiny brain. “T-that’s sweet of you…” Seven years later, still trippin’ over my words with this angel!! I laughed, grinnin’ before makin’ the okay symbol with my index and thumb fingers. “Leave it to me, baby.” I blew her a kiss!!

My girl was hella good at this. Skilled in her craft, better at what she did than Heroes decades her senior. A helluva lot better than me, cause the second he said what he said red consumed my vision. I heard my girl’s voice somewhere, salvation above a crushing iron ocean.

“FUCK OFF!!” A screech of a chair, my whole body pistoned towards him with the barrel of my gun at his head-!! “You can take a cold piss in hell before you ever touch my kid.” I seethe. “I ain’t have any, anyway. Won’t ever. Point still stands.” I squeeze the trigger. “Got that?”

Time stops. It’s heavy till he hits play, breathing again. I’m not.

“Please, gentlemen,” he starts, bursting into laughter that’s so bone chilling it was like some other entity entered the room with us, “I’m a businessman, not a creep.” He sniffles. I sit down, gun still cocked. “Nor scientist. Wrap up that quirk of yours amongst other things, won’t you Charleston? Children of yours would fetch a pretty penny. Could you fathom a quirk marriage with someone like that Hero, Apparel?” He tsk’ed, shuffling papers as my veins froze. “Regeneration and stealth copacetically blended? Please. Even if I was interested, I’d be charging tenfold, minimum, what I offered.” He pulls out a new manila folder, pushes it me and my girl’s way. Pictures spill out, goons wearing ski masks on yachts with body bags littering the bow. I squint, chest still aching with what he said, the mere possibility that he might know. Get it together, I snap at myself, blinking rapidly at the pictures. Fuck. It was an arm of the Aka Oni’s Syndicate, allegedly led by a damn dear omnipotent politician in disguise. Shit ain’t gonna be easy.

“Anyway, I want everyone involved with this incident disposed of. I’ll wire you half today, half on confirmed kill. Leave them my calling card, won’t you?” He winks. “The delay will appear as a hold on your account, procedural bank routine when transferring such a sum.”

He looks up at us both, hands on the table with a grin at his face. Like shit ain’t happen.

“Pleasure doing business with you both.”

Lifts up his glass -

“To wealthy men, and the families we’ll never know.”

tag: Kazashi McCoy