~Drifting into Desire~ PART IV
>Warnings: Profanity. Smoking.
>Word Count: 8.8k
>Tags: 18+ future smut + MDNI + all characters over age 21 + 1990s themed + no quirks + reader insert
>A/N: heyyyyyyy! we finally got us some Bakugo action in this chappy. if you're interested, I highly encourage listening to the initial d soundtrack during the race scenes. also, if you have any feedback on anything, I would love to hear (: I hope you enjoy!
p.s. Get a look at Y/N's car with an official piece of artwork for the story! -> Parked.
>taglist: @simp-plague
part III masterlist
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The sun had dipped below the jagged horizon, painting the sky in a breathtaking palette of amber and crimson that bathed the mountain pass in an ethereal golden glow. You eased your car to a halt at the starting line, the engine's low purr reverberating through the valley. The crisp evening air crackled with electric anticipation, sending shivers down your spine. Bakugo leaned against his gleaming orange RX-7, its polished surface reflecting the fading light like liquid fire. His piercing crimson eyes locked onto you, burning with an intensity that could melt steel, his lips curled into a predatory smirk that promised no mercy on the winding road ahead.
"You ready, Rookie?" His deep voice carried a note of mockery, a challenge in his steady gaze.
You smirked, the engine of your Mazda purring in response. Your fingers drummed against the steering wheel, adrenaline already coursing through your veins.
"Born ready," you drawled, a cocky grin spreading across your face. "This baby and I have been itching for a challenge. You sure you can keep up?" The playful taunt in your voice masked the undercurrent of excitement and nerves. This was more than just a race; it was a chance to prove yourself, to feel truly alive. Bakugo chuckled, the sound low and dangerous, like the rumble of an approaching storm.
"You think I’m afraid of some little girl in a Miata? You know who I am, right?" He pushed off from his car, swaggering towards you, his every step confident and deliberate.
“Yeah, the self-proclaimed King of Musutafu Pass.” You leaned back in your seat, crossing your arms with a casual air that belied the determination simmering within. “Let’s see if your throne survives the night.”
Bakugo’s eyes gleamed, a wicked satisfaction flickering across his features. “You talk a big game for someone who barely scraped by against Kirishima. Did you really think that was enough to impress me?”
“That was a warm-up,” you shot back, uncaging a smirk that felt like a flame ignited between you. “Kirishima's a good driver, but he doesn’t have what it takes to match me. Let's see if you're different, huh?"
He glared, fists clenching at his sides. “You’ll regret saying that when I blow past you on the uphill and leave you eating my dust."
"Once we hit the downhill, we'll see who's the one left behind." You leaned forward, eyes narrowing in challenge, thrill dancing on the edge of your words.
With a scoff, he pushed off of his car and paced toward the starting line, the ground trembling slightly beneath his steps. “Enough talk. Let’s settle this on the track.”
The crowd buzzed with anticipation, a cacophony of voices mingling with the distant thump of bass from nearby cars. You glanced behind you, seeing Momo and Shinso among the gathering of eager spectators, their faces filled with uneasiness. Momo stood with her hands on her hips, while Shinso shrugged, a smirk creeping onto his face.
You focused ahead, your mind a turbulent sea of conflicting emotions. The growing hum of the crowd soon faded, replaced by the rhythmic thump of your heart, each beat a reminder of the weight of expectations pressing down on you. Just you, the road, and your car—a trinity that both comforted and terrified. You took a deep breath, trying to quell the doubt that gnawed at your insides. Visualizing each corner and stretch of asphalt, you saw not just a race course, but a metaphor for your life's journey—full of sharp hairpin turns that tested your resolve and straightaways that begged for the speed you both craved and feared. It all beckoned, promising glory and threatening disaster in equal measure, leaving you torn between the thrill of the challenge and the paralyzing fear of failure.
“You ready?” Bakugo’s voice snapped you back to the moment, his impatient tone cutting through the crowd's roar.
“Let’s do this,” you replied, fire igniting in your chest as the world fell away.
The countdown began, echoing like a gunshot in your mind.
“Three!”
You slid your hands firmly onto the wheel, feeling the familiar texture of the leather grip anchor you.
“Two!"
Your foot hovered above the gas pedal, heart racing at the approach of the finish line. You glanced at Bakugo, his fierce expression promising a fight to the bitter end.
“One!” A deep breath filled your lungs, having just enough time to release before the call of destiny rang out like a thunderclap.
“GO!”
The crowd erupted as you both slammed down on your gas pedals, launching your cars forward like two bullets released from a chamber.
In an instant, the world blurred; the roar of engines and the shouts of the crowd faded into a singular roar in your ears. You felt the familiar rush as you pressed the accelerator down, feeling the force of the engine as your Mazda surged through the shifting landscape. The asphalt stretched out ahead, a ribbon of black winding through the mountains like a serpent ready to strike.
Ding!
The sound came from the dash, the indicator for the RPM climbing ever higher. You shifted into second gear, unleashing the MX-5's power as the car hugged the first curve. You gripped the wheel tighter, feeling the tires bite into the asphalt as you leaned into the turn.
Bakugo shot ahead of you, his RX-7 cutting through the mountains like a bullet. The spin of his tires kicked up gravel, shooting it back like cannon fire. You gritted your teeth, not letting his head start intimidate you. As the road twisted into a series of sharp corners, you remembered Shota's words: "Control the car, don’t let it control you."
You downshifted, your Mazda responding with an eager growl, ready for the challenge. With the tires gripping the asphalt, you navigated the second turn, feeling the familiar kiss of the tires against the road. You focused on the apex, keeping your vision sharp and your instincts honed. The world outside the windshield swirled into a blur of green and gray, but within your car, everything felt clear, controlled.
Ding!
Bakugo’s car pitched into the next corner, the RX-7's rear tires skidding slightly as he deftly maneuvered around the curve. The thrill of speed blended with the rush of adrenaline, and you continued to press on, determined to keep him within reach. Each turn presented its own set of challenges, but you wove through them with practiced grace, a silent dance with the mountain that felt as natural as breathing. The sky darkened, and the headlights cast beams of illumination that sliced through the gloom, illuminating the lane ahead.
As you surged into the next straightaway, you caught a glimpse of Bakugo ahead, the orange glow of his taillights flickering like a beacon of challenge. You pressed harder on the accelerator, feeling the rush of speed as you closed the distance between you. The roar of your engine matched the pounding in your chest—the thrill both intoxicating and consuming. Yet, the uphill loomed ahead, and in that moment, you knew focus was paramount . Your heart raced, echoing the rhythm of the winding road, and you dug deep, drawing on the lessons Shota drilled into you during those relentless training sessions.
"Stay steady... keep your focus," you muttered under your breath, as Bakugo’s car continued to pull ahead on the incline. Your heart pounded in your chest, racing alongside the revving engine of the Mazda. The incline steepened; the road tightened its grip around the mountainside, each twist demanding unwavering control. You felt the pressure of Bakugo’s looming lead—a smirk had settled on his face as he glanced back at you, his confidence radiating like heat waves. The taunting glimmer in his eyes only fueled the fire within you.
“Not so cocky now, are ya?” Bakugo shot you a challenging glance, his face twisted into a smirk that dared you to concede. You watched as he slowly created more distance between the two of you , the gap widening under the weight of your racing hearts.
Internal thoughts clashed within you, a battle of self-doubt and raw determination. Was this it? Had the thrill of victory against Kirishima been nothing more than a fluke? No. You refused to admit defeat. The mountain whispered its secrets, and you were determined to unlock them.
With a skin-tight grip on the wheel, you recalled the advice from your uncle that pulled you back from the brink of doubt. "Be a ghost on the road," he'd once said, his voice echoing in your mind. "Let the car vanish into the wind."
As you focused on his words , a sense of calm washed over you, grounding your racing heart. You summoned every ounce of skill and confidence accumulated from countless hours on the road. The world around you faded, leaving only the climb and the rhythmic roar of the engine.
You angled your car as you approached the final steep ascent, each muscle in your body tensed with resolve. The RX-7’s taillights had disappeared, starting the downhill with a huge lead. You bit down hard on your lower lip, a wellspring of determination bubbling up inside. There wasn’t time to second-guess your capabilities. You unleashed the full power of your engine, feeling the Mazda respond, a wild spirit finally tapped. With every bump and rise in the pavement, awareness sharp as a blade, you maneuvered with unwavering precision, carving through every corner.
"That's what I thought," Bakugo snarled, a twisted grin spreading across his face as he watched your headlights fade into the inky darkness behind him. The thrill of victory coursed through his veins, his heart pounding with savage satisfaction as he left you in his dust.
Now it was your turn to shine. As you approached the cusp of the downhill, the world shifted into sharp focus. Your heartbeat synced with the pulsating roar of your engine, the rush surging through your veins like a current. The taillights of Bakugo's RX-7 glowed dimly in the distance, but they flickered with a melting glow that seemed to beckon you forward.
You had to come up with a way to catch up, at this rate you were going to lose. As you crested the uphill and began the exhilarating descent, the air shifted. The corners came alive, and so did you. Shadows danced in the light of your headlights, drawing you into the rhythm of the road.
Ding!
Just then, a distant memory invaded your thoughts. The echo of Shota’s voice replayed in your mind, each word igniting a spark of clarity. “Use the curves, Y/N. Let the road guide you. Slip into it like water to a riverbed."
With renewed focus, you positioned your car for the first downhill turn, envisioning yourself as fluid, confident. The first corner beckoned like an invitation, its curves promising freedom. You turned the wheel, steering into the arch, grateful for the years of practice smoothing your technique until it felt almost instinctual.
Giving the steering wheel an extra push, you felt your tire fall off of the asphault. Your tires grabbed onto the edge, keeping you tight on the inside. The momentum of this change caused you to fly around the curve like a bullet. The centrifugal force pressed you into the seat as you navigated the turn, the sharp edge of the asphalt kissing your tires. The thrill surged through you like electricity as you whipped around the curve, the car responding beautifully to your movements with a satisfying hum. You felt invincible. With every corner you mastered, your confidence grew. You pulled the steering wheel back, transitioning smoothly into the next curve, as the shrill sound of Bakugo’s engine became more clear with each graceful bend. He took the downhill with brute force, but you wielded finesse.
The jagged outline of Bakugo's taillights grew closer, flickering like a candle desperately trying to stay alight in a storm. The exhilarating rush of adrenaline surged through your veins, fueling your determination as you mirrored his movements, but with precision and finesse.
As you maneuvered through the next curve, the RX-7's taillights pulsed and danced, a rhythmic challenge that mocked your efforts. You knew the downhill was coming to an end, with only the consecutive hairpins standing in your way of the finish line. You had caught up with Bakugo, the nose of your car trailing behind him closely.
Bakugou's eyes widened in disbelief as he caught sight of your sleek, cherry-red Miata in his rearview mirror. The compact sports car roared up behind him, its polished chrome gleaming in the moonlight, closing the distance at an alarming rate.
"What the fuck?" he spat, his voice a mixture of panic and incredulity, as the Miata's aggressive approach sent a shiver down his spine. Your heart raced as you rounded another hairpin, the world outside the windshield blurring into a haze of darkness and light. Bakugo’s car was mere feet ahead, and his agitated body language seeped into his driving. With each attempt you made to pass him, he would agressively whip his car in front of you.
You flicked the steering wheel, adjusting your trajectory as Bakugo cut you off once more, a furious scowl set on his face. This race had turned into a brutal game of cat and mouse as you both danced on the edge of speed and control.
“Why won’t you just stay behind?” Bakugo shouted, his voice laced with frustration as he threw his car into the next turn, the tires squealing under the pressure of his aggressive maneuver.
"C'mon girl. Just a little faster!" You spoke to your car, the familiar warmth of confidence filling your chest. You hugged the next turn tighter, anticipating Bakugo's movements with a precision born from countless hours of practice. The taillights of his RX-7 sliced through the darkness, two angry embers flickering against the black canvas of the mountain. As he veered left, you did the same, but with a different intent—where he sought to block your path, you focused on slipping past him like a shadow. The hairpin loomed ahead, a perfect potential for an inside maneuver.
"Why so tense, Bakugo?" you challenged, your voice cutting through the rush of wind and engine roar.
Bakugo scowled, muscles taut as he gripped the steering wheel, his focus ignited by your taunting maneuvers behind him. He slammed the accelerator, the RX-7 lurching forward as he attempted to shake you off his tail , the engine roaring defiantly against the night air. The RX-7 surged ahead, but you refused to yield.
With every ounce of skill coursing through your veins, you steadied your grip, eyes locking onto the line ahead. As the final corner loomed, the road opened up, urging you onward with an inviting space that felt like a portal leading to victory. Your heart thundered against your chest as you braced for the last corner, the final opportunity to seize the lead. The air around you thickened with tension, but the mesmerizing pull of the asphalt felt like a siren's call, urging you to bend the rules of physics itself.
You inched closer to Bakugo, his aggressive demeanor only spurring you on. “You think you can keep me in your shadow?”
He shot you a fierce glare, the intensity of his focus unwavering as he tightened his grip on the steering wheel. “I’ll eat you alive, Rookie! Just watch me.”
The final turn loomed ahead, a sharp left that would determine everything. You couldn’t allow yourself to falter now, couldn’t give Bakugo the satisfaction of knowing he intimidated you . You pushed the accelerator to the metal, feeling the shudder of the engine beneath you. The sound of the roaring RX-7 faded into the background, overtaken by the surge of adrenaline course through your veins. The final turn loomed, your wheels screaming in protest.
Ding!
You remembered Shota's words:
"Be a ghost on the road."
In that fleeting moment, clarity washed over you, as if the world had zoomed in on just one spot—the curve that would decide your fate. You were not merely a driver; you were a master of the elements hurtling toward you. You shifted your weight, lowered your profile, and with a final burst of determination, you flicked off the headlights, plunging into darkness as you approached the tight corner. The silhouette of Bakugo's RX-7 loomed just ahead, illuminated solely by the faint glow of its taillights, a beacon guiding you forward in a world of shadows.
You were invisible.
Bakugo lifted his gaze, curious about how you had navigated that challenging turn. Only darkness greeted him in the rearview mirror. Scanning each reflection, he found no trace of your pursuing vehicle.
Huh, must've lost her. Hmph. A slight chuckle escaped Bakugo’s lips, laced with the heady thrill of victory brewing in his chest. He leaned back in his seat, confidence swelling.
Suddenly, the slightest flicker of movement caught his eye. A shadow darted past him, an apparition gliding through the corner where his headlights failed to reach. The realization struck him like a bolt of lightning.
“Shit!” Bakugo hissed, a wave of disbelief crashing over him as you whispered past his side, the Miata's sleek frame barely breaking the plane of vision. Your headlights popped back up, illuminating the road ahead just as you surged into the lead. The momentum from your turn sent a shockwave of adrenaline coursing through your veins, propelling you forward with a reckless abandon. The moment the headlights flickered back to life, you felt the exhilaration seep into every fiber of your being. You’d done it—you gained the lead. As you rocketed down the final stretch, you could see a large group of people waiting.
Panic rose in Bakugo's chest, watching as your small car lurched in front of his. He didn't let this drive away his aggression, instead letting it fuel him.
"Get back here!" he howled, slamming down on the gas as he bore down on the compact frame of your Mazda. The RX-7’s engine roared with newfound ferocity, the sound slicing through the night like a serrated knife. He was determined to reclaim his lead, to show you that your moment of triumph was nothing but a fleeting apparition.
The RX-7’s roar grew louder, drowning out the sound of your own heartbeat as Bakugo launched his car forward in a desperate attempt to overtake you. You couldn’t look back now; the streak of headlights behind you pulsed like a heartbeat, an ominous reminder that he was right on your tail. Every nerve in your body tingled with focus, laser-like as you navigated the final stretch of road, feeling the ready adrenaline surge through you. The double yellow lines blurred by in a frantic rush, a reminder of the stakes that sat heavy on your shoulders.
“C’mon! Almost there!” you muttered, pushing the Mazda to its limits as the finish line loomed ahead, the crowds of people rushing out of the way when neither you nor Bakugo were slowing down. The crowd erupted into a frenzy, faces twisting in shock as your Mazda surged forward, leaving a trail of burning rubber in your wake.
You crossed over the imaginary line. A split second later, Bakugo’s RX-7 thundered across the line just behind you, barely a heartbeat behind, his frustrated roar echoing through the mountain pass like a thunderclap.
You fucking did it, Y/N.
The moment you crossed that imaginary line, a wash of exhilaration flooded through you, an electric current igniting your every nerve ending. You fought to contain your grin, knowing that behind you lay a pissed-off Katsuki Bakugo, his frustration palpable even from the distance that separated you. You drove ahead, whipping the car around to face the direction of your competitor. He was climbing out of his car, eyes lit like a roaring inferno.
“I can’t believe she pulled that shit on me!” Bakugo shouted, storming towards you with tension crackling in the air like static electricity. Without waiting on him to catch up, you lit a cigarette and took a slow drag, letting the smoke curl into the night. He approached quickly, and you couldn't help the shit eating grin that spread across your face, the thrill of victory still coursing through your veins. You put the car into first, letting the engine sputter with playful defiance, almost as if it shared your smug satisfaction. You could feel the victorious energy pulsing in your bones as Bakugo halted just in front of your Mazda's path, trying to keep you from leaving the Pass.
You didn't want to bother with the temper tantrum that was incoming. “You little—” Bakugo thrust an accusatory finger toward you, the flames of anger flickering dangerously in his eyes. “You think you can just—”
You leaned back against your seat, taking a long drag from your cigarette, letting the smoke curl into the night air.
"—cheat your way to a win?" He took a step closer, nostrils flaring in indignation as he glared down at you, his expression as blazing as ever.
“Cheating?” You laughed lightly, inhaling the smoke before letting it drift lazily from your lips. “You must not have watched closely enough.” You leaned casually against the interior of your Mazda, exuding a confidence that belied the adrenaline still thrumming in your veins. The crowd gathered behind you, buzzing with energy, their excitement crackling as they awaited the aftermath of your fierce showdown.
Bakugo's eyes narrowed dangerously, his jaw clenched so tightly that you could practically see the tension radiating off of him like heat from an unforgiving flame.
"What's wrong, Bakugo? Didn't expect a Miata to give your precious RX-7 a run for its money?" Your voice dripped with playful arrogance, the adrenaline still buzzing wildly in your veins as you leaned back in your seat, watching him struggle to contain his rage and disbelief. Bakugo's jaw worked silently, clenched muscles taut with frustration. “You know that wasn’t racing! You just—”
“I just what?” you interrupted, feigning innocence as you exhal ed a cloud of smoke toward him, a defiant smirk playing on your lips. “Used the tricks I’ve learned from the best. Isn’t that what racing is all about, Bakugo ?” He scowled, the heat of his anger bubbling beneath a facade of cool confidence.
"Fuck you. I want a rematch. No tricky shit." You chuckled, the sound mocking in the cool night air.
“Oh, so now you want to make the rules? How convenient.” You leaned forward, looking him straight in the eyes, the taunting gleam in your gaze unyielding as you locked onto his fiery stare.
“Quit whining and admit it, you lost fair and square,” you shot back, letting the smoke filter between your lips like a swirling ghost of rebellion, taunting his frustration further. The crowd behind you murmured in approval, the thick tension weaving through the air like a live wire.
"Now, if you don't mind, I have other shit to do. Plus my feet are fucking killing me." Your nonchalance only fanned the flames of Bakugo's fury. He stepped closer, fists clenched at his sides as if he could physically restrain the words not yet spoken.
“Don't think you can just walk away after that. You’re on my turf now, and I want a rematch. Right here, right now,” Bakugo demanded, his voice a low growl that echoed through the silence.
You rolled your eyes dramatically, your foot pressing down on the accelerator. The engine roared to life, matching the intensity in your chest. Turning to Bakugo, you gave him a mischievous wink and pulled the cigarette from your lips, smoke curling around your words.
"Goodnight, Bakugo," you purred, your voice a mix of amusement and challenge.
With that, you were off, tires screeching against the pavement. The world became a blur as you sped through the streets, the crowds on either side erupting into wild cheers as you passed. Their excitement fueled your own, a grin spreading across your face as you embraced the thrill of the moment and the open road ahead.
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The next morning greeted you with a sharp chill that hung in the air, almost as if the mountains were still buzzing with the lingering energy of last night's race. You rolled out of bed, the soft glow of dawn filtering through the window, illuminating your room with a warm embrace that contrasted sharply with the coolness outside. You made your way to the kitchen, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee beckoning you like a siren’s call. Momo stood by the counter, her back turned as she stirred a steaming mug, the faint clattering of ceramic echoing softly in the quiet kitchen.
"Morning, sleepyhead," she chimed, glancing over her shoulder with a bright smile. "You were quite the spectacle last night." You smirked, pouring a cup of coffee with a practiced ease that felt almost instinctive. The rich, dark liquid swirled within the mug, releasing its inviting aroma.
“Spectacle or troublemaker?” you replied, taking a long sip from the steaming cup, the warmth spreading through you like magic. A hint of playful mischief danced in your gaze as you leaned against the counter.
The race last night had you riding on a high. Momo raised an eyebrow, her lips twisting into a teasing smile.
“A bit of both, I’d say. Did you see Bakugo’s face? I've never seen anyone look so... enraged."You laughed, recalling the fiery glare Bakugo had thrown your way as you sped off into the night.
“You know, I didn’t think you had that in you," Momo leaned against the counter, her dark hair cascading over one shoulder as she watched you with a mix of admiration and concern. “You really surprised everyone last night.”
You shrugged, a sly grin tugging at the corner of your lips.
“Just doing what I had to do,” you replied, your heart still humming with the excitement from the previous night. Momo set her mug down, crossing her arms with a knowing look.
“It was more than that, Y/N. You took on Bakugo. He’s not just any racer; he’s a legend around here. You’ve stirred up the whole community, whether you realize it or not. People are talking, and you’re suddenly the talk of the town.”
You smirked, taking another sip of coffee, the warmth igniting your confidence even more.
“Let them talk,” you replied, leaning back against the counter with casual defiance. “I’m not here to please anyone but myself. This is my path, and I’m just getting started.”
Momo tilted her head, amusement playing on her lips. "And where does that path lead? Right into Bakugo’s fiery glare? Because he sure doesn’t take losing lightly.”
Your smile faded, the reality of last night settling into your bones. “I know,” you admitted, glancing down at your coffee as if the warm liquid could ground you.
Momo laughed, her warm eyes gleaming with delight. “It was like watching a lion try to catch a clever little fox,” she continued, crossing her arms as if the mere thought gave her glee. You chuckled, imagining the scene as you took another sip of your coffee.
"More like a lion with anger management issues," you replied, shaking your head. You snorted, stirring the coffee for a moment before taking a sip, letting the bold flavor dance on your tongue. “But still, you’ve got to admit, he puts on quite a show.”
Momo’s laughter rang out, brightening the morning gloom. “He does, and I’m sure he’ll be looking for a rematch sooner rather than later.” Her expression turned serious, eyebrows knitting together.
“Just be careful, Y/N. He’s fierce, and he doesn’t like losing.”
“Trust me , I know.” You took another sip of your coffee, letting the heat seep into your bones as you glanced out the window, watching the first rays of sunlight spill over the mountain. “But I’m not backing down. This is my race now.”
Despite the lightheartedness of your exchange, a knot of excitement twisted within you. You knew the real challenge awaited you—the rivalry with Bakugo was far from over. Your mind danced with the possibilities of what could unfold in the coming days—a relentless pursuit of victory, each encounter bound to sting just a little more, and push you further into the heart of the racing world.
“You’ve always been good at staying level-headed,” Momo continued, her voice gentle yet firm. “But this is different. Bakugo won’t just challenge your skills; he’ll attack your confidence.”
You took another sip of coffee, appreciating the bold flavor that settled deep in your chest, steeling your resolve against her words.
“I appreciate the concern,” you replied, placing the cup down on the counter with a determined clink. "But worry isn't going to help me win races. I’ve fought through worse. I can handle him.”
And with that sentence, the absent dark thoughts came crawling back to the forefront of your mind. They hadn't pestered your mind since before the races last night, but now they were clawing their way back, relentless and suffocating. Deep down, the memories of your past threatened to bubble up, a tide of grief and loss barely contained beneath the surface of your resolve. You could feel it, just waiting for that moment of weakness, hoping to pull you under.
You inhaled sharply, forcing the memories to recede, but Momo’s watchful gaze caught the slight tremor in your hand as you placed your coffee mug down. The comforting warmth of the ceramic cup turned heavy, the weight of unspoken feelings pressing down on your chest like a stone. Momo's eyes softened, her expression shifting as if she could sense the shadows creeping in.
"You sure you’re alright?" she asked gently, her tone laced with concern. You locked eyes with her and gave a nonchalant shrug.
"Yes mom. But I think I'm gonna go for a drive." It was the only solution for driving away the thoughts. Momo studied you for a moment, concern flickering across her features, but she nodded slowly as if understanding the weight you needed to shed.
“Just don’t push yourself too hard today. And if you run into Bakugo again...”
“I’ll keep my distance,” you promised, waving a dismissive hand. But deep down, you both knew that wouldn’t happen. The tension between you and Bakugo felt electric, as if the universe itself demanded a collision of the two forces. A part of you craved the thrill—not just the speed, but the challenge he posed.
Momo watched you with a knowing smile, your determination radiating off you like an aura. “Alright, just... be careful. And call me if things get out of hand,” she said, her concern evident in her voice.
"Yeah, yeah, I will." You pushed away from the counter and strolled toward the your bedroom to get changed. Once you found suitable clothes, you made your way out. You made sure to layer up, the autumn chill biting at exposed skin as you pulled on a black leather jacket over your fitted long-sleeve shirt. With high-waisted cargo pants hugging your legs, you felt a renewed sense of confidence rise within you.
You decided to take it slow up the mountain this morning, watching as the leaves danced around you in shades of crimson and gold, rustling gently in the wind like whispers of encouragement. With each curve of the mountain pass, you let the serenity of the morning sink into your bones, each bend inviting you to embrace the thrill of the road. The Mazda purred beneath you, a soft hum that melded seamlessly with the harmony of nature.
As you passed a small lot, your gaze was drawn to a parked car. Unexpectedly, you found yourself locking eyes with a pair of furious vermillion orbs. There, leaning against his RX-7 with arms crossed over his broad chest, stood Bakugo, radiating anger.
The moment your eyes met, a thick tension crackled in the air between you, a charged atmosphere woven from rivalry and adrenaline. Bakugo pushed himself off the car, a predatory smile creeping across his lips, sharp and dangerous.
You immediately amped it up, not having the energy to deal with him so soon. You slammed the gas pedal, the purr of your Mazda morphing into a defiant roar as you prepared to leave him in the dust.
You darted away excitedly, enticing Bakugo to chase after you like a predator stalking its prey. His car roared to life, screeching as his pulled out of the lot.
Has he been waiting on you? What the fuck??
It didn't take long for Bakugo to catch up as you sped along the winding mountain road. The rev of his RX-7 echoed like a thunderclap behind you, each roar igniting the thrill deep within your chest. You navigated the uphill as best you could, but he was undeniably better and more suited to take it on. The incline steepened, and you pressed harder on the accelerator, the engine's growl matching the intensity simmering beneath your skin. Reds, browns, and greens blurred together like a rushing watercolor, but it wasn't enough to distract you from the impending doom of Bakugo's furious pace.
Pulling up next to you, he rolled his window down. He had a mischievous look on his face, pointing to the side of the road.
"Pull over," Bakugo shouted over the roar of the engines, his voice cutting through the wind like a blade.
You shot him a glare, your fingers tightening around the wheel.
“Not a chance,” you shouted back, adrenaline fueling your defiance. You leaned into the next curve, your car hugging the asphalt tightly as you pushed the Mazda to its limits. Bakugo wasn’t going to give up so easily. He surged ahead, pulling in front of you just enough to cut off your path. He twisted his car to come to a hard stop, leaving you no choice but to decelerate. You slammed your brakes, the tires screeching in protest as you managed to bring the Mazda to a halt mere inches from his rear bumper. The moment your car came to a stop, you glared at Bakugo, heart racing, chest heaving as you fought to contain
You ripped your car door open, stepping out and giving him a glare.
"Are you fucking crazy?!" Your eyes met his, and the fury in them burned as fiercely as the colors of the setting sun around you.
Bakugo smirked, leaning back against his car with a casual confidence that only fueled your indignation.
"You haven't seen half of the crazy I got in me." His smug grin widened, a flash of teeth that dared you to challenge him further.
“Is that supposed to intimidate me?” you shot back, crossing your arms defiantly. “You’re just playing games, Bakugo. I've got better things to do than chase after you.”
His eyes narrowed, and the smirk transformed into a scowl. “Playing games? You think I ’m here to play? I want a rematch, and I want it now.” His voice was low and intense, a storm brewing just beneath the surface.
You resisted the urge to roll your eyes but couldn't suppress a slight smirk. "So just because you lost one race, you think you can force me into another? Cute."
Bakugo’s expression morphed into a blend of anger and determination, his lips curling into a fierce snarl. “You think this is a joke, Y/N? I don’t lose to anyone, especially not some rookie in a piece of junk."
"Is that so?" You tilted your head, a challenge glimmering in your eyes. "Maybe you just weren’t prepared for an actual race, Bakugo. You might want to watch your mouth next time." Bakugo's expression darkened, his fists clenching at his sides, but you could see the flicker of respect beneath the anger—the undeniable recognition of your growing prowess.
"You really think you can just brush me off like that?" His gaze bore into you, fierce and unwavering. “You think this is over?”
You studied him, the tension crackling in the air between you like a live wire, pulsing with anticipation.
“Look, it wasn’t just luck that got me through last night,” you shot back, your heart racing with both defiance and resolve. “ I’ve put in the work, and if you think I’m going to let you waltz in here and intimidate me, you've got another thing coming.”
Bakugo's eyes glinted with intensity, a smoldering fire that challenged you to rise to his level. “Is that right? Then show me. Prove it wasn’t just some one-time fluke.”
Without breaking your composure, you took a step closer, the crisp mountain air thick with tension. The words hung in the silence, a dare wrapped in defiance.
"Alright, you want to race?" Bakugo’s smirk returned, sharp and predatory as he stepped forward, his eyes gleaming in the sunlight that spilled over the mountains.
"Thought you'd never ask."
He slid back into his RX-7 with a confident flourish, the door slamming shut as he revved the engine, the low growl echoing ominously off the mountainside.
"You ready to lose?" Bakugo taunted. You chuckled, the sound laced with a fearless challenge as you slid back into your Mazda.
“You really think you can take me down twice?” Your fingers danced across the steering wheel, excitement coursing through your veins like wildfire.
"Just watch me," Bakugo fired back, the growl of his RX-7 revving in protest. The tension in the air hung thick, a taut string waiting for that one decisive cut.
You shifted your gear into position, feeling the familiar hum of your Mazda beneath you. Bakugo counted down, intensity etched into his features.
“Three! Two! One! GO!”
His RX-7 shot forward, not realizing that you hadn't moved. Quickly as he tore ahead, you smirked, letting him believe he held the lead. As the roar of the RX-7 faded into the background, you revved your engine, a low growl as you whipped your car around and took off in the opposite direction. The sound of your Mazda’s engine echoed off the mountains, a triumphant roar that blended with the gentle rustle of the leaves in the wind. Bakugo’s confident smirk faltered slightly as he realized his mistake. He whipped his head around, eyes wide with disbelief as he registered your sudden maneuver. “You think you can just—”
Before he could finish, you floored the pedal, your car surging forward with a ferocity that sent the adrenaline racing through your veins. The Mazda MX-5 responded instantly, the engine’s roars echoing against the mountainsides, as you forced the gears through the sweet spot, the engine screaming as you carved your own path through the winding road.
Bakugo’s RX-7 thundered to life behind you, but you had already embraced the thrill of the chase.
Behind you, Bakugo was feeling the same. An excited growl ripped through his chest. The RX-7’s engine snarled as he pushed the gas pedal, determined to reclaim control. He surged forward, tires squealing as he barreled around the corner, his car following closely behind like a predator in hot pursuit.
He pursued you down the mountainside, finally catching up as you reached the bottom. Both of you parked your vehicles, and he strode towards you.
“Did you really think you could just trick me like that?” Bakugo barked, irritation etched into his features as he closed the distance, his glinting eyes narrowed into slits of fury. “Why are you treating this like a game?”
You lit up a cigarette, taking your time with responding. You leaned against the cool metal of your Mazda, the haze of cigarette smoke swirling around you like a shield against his ire. Taking a slow drag, you let the tension build, enjoying the furious gl are of his eyes as you exhaled a plume of smoke into the air, feeling the burn of the nicotine rush through your veins alongside the high of the chase.
“Game? No,” you said, leveling your gaze at him as the smoke curled and vanished into the cool air. “This isn’t a game, Bakugo. It’s a challenge.”
His nostrils flared with indignation, the fire in his eyes intensifying. “You think you can outsmart me just by playing dirty? You won’t get away with that trash.”
You took another drag from your cigarette, the ember glowing fiercely against the darkening sky.
“Outsmart you? No, I just knew you'd underestimate me. That’s your problem, Bakugo. You always think you can bulldoze your way to victory, while I prefer to slip through the cracks."
Bakugo’s jaw clenched, frustration simmering just beneath the surface. He stepped closer, his presence towering over you, his fierce intensity palpable.
“You think because you pulled that stunt, you’ve won something special? You can’t rely on tricks forever, Rookie.”
You inhaled sharply, staring him down, the challenge hanging thick in the air between you like a thundercloud ready to burst.
“Maybe not,” you replied, your tone steady, the smoke curling away from your lips as you held his gaze, unyielding under the weight of his intensity. “But relying on pure skill isn’t the only way to win. It’s about knowing your opponent, playing to their weaknesses.”
You were starting to sound more and more like your uncle. Bakugo’s intensity flickered for a brief moment, the fire in his eyes wavering as he processed your words. A flicker of respect gleamed behind that ever-present irritation; you recognized it as a testament to your growing prowess in this cutthroat world of racing.
For a heartbeat, the tension hung between you, a delicate balance of fierce rivalry and unexpected respect. Bakugo's eyes narrowed, his expression fluctuating between indignation and a grudging recognition of your skill. He stepped back slightly, crossing his arms over his chest as he studied you, the intensity of his gaze piercing.
You both paused as you heard an interesting sounding engine approaching. The throaty growl of another car echoed around the bend, slicing through the charged atmosphere hanging between you and Bakugo. You both turned, instinctively shifting your focus from one another to the approaching vehicle. The sound of tires crunching against gravel filled the air, heralding the arrival of another competitor. As the sleek silhouette of the car came into view, you recognized the unmistakable profile of a modified Nissan Skyline GTR, its metallic black paint glimmering under the fading sun. The engine roared as it approached, and you could hear the turbo spooling up. The driver, a tall figure dressed in a black racing jacket with a striking logo emblazoned across the back, eased the Nissan to a stop beside you and Bakugo. He swung the door open, stepping out with an air of confidence that radiated from him like an aura. Dark sunglasses perched on his nose, his hair tousled and rebellious as he surveyed the scene.
“Did I miss the party ?” he called, a lazy smirk spreading across his face as he casually leaned against his car. His voice was booming around you. The sunglasses masked his eyes, but you could sense the energy radiating from him, a charged drawl that suggested he thrived on the excitement of competition.
“Just an impromptu showdown,” you shot back, chuckling as you waved the smoke from your cigarette into the air, watching as it mingled with the crisp mountain breeze.
Bakugo scowled, narrowing his eyes at the newcomer.
“Great, just what I need: another clown to distract me from what actually matters,” he retorted, his voice dripping with irritation as he crossed his arms tighter over his chest, muscles tense with barely contained frustration.
The newcomer chuckled, not fazed by Bakugo's hostility.
“Well, it looks like I stumbled into a territory dispute.” He pushed his sunglasses up, revealing a pair of sharp, beaty eyes that sparkled with mischief.
"Hope I didn't ruin your little rendezvous, but a rumor swirling around has kind of piqued my interest," he continued, tilting his head with an amused glint in his eyes.
“Rumor?” Bakugo growled, irritation still clinging to his voice as he glanced between you and the new arrival with a level of contempt that could only be likened to a smoldering fire.
"Yeah, the one that says that you, Bakugo, were beat by a newbie in a Miata," the newcomer laughed, tilting his head back as if the very notion of a 'newbie' outpacing Bakugo was the most amusing thing he'd heard all week.
Bakugo's scowl deepened, his fists clenched at his sides, barely containing the anger that surged beneath the surface.
“Who the hell are you?” he spat, eyes blazing.
“Name’s Inasa Yoarashi. Leader of the Shiketsu Suns.” He leaned back against his Nissan, a relaxed grin spreading across his face as if he hadn’t just provoked a shark. Bakugo glared at Inasa, his irritation palpable, as if he were trying to will the other racer into submission with sheer force.
“Great, another hotshot,” Bakugo muttered, his voice dripping with disdain. The tension thickened, a palpable current curling around the three of you like a tempest, each characteristic pulled taut by pride and the fiery competition that bound you in this silent standoff.
Inasa chuckled, unabashed by Bakugo's hostility.
"Aren't you just a ball of sunshine?" He shot a playful grin your way and nodded his head towards your car. “I'm gonna take a very educated guess and say you're the newbie, huh?"
You raised an eyebrow, the corner of your mouth twitching up in bemusement.
“Is that supposed to be an insult? I’m pretty sure I just outpaced the self-proclaimed King of Musutafu Pass,” you replied, crossing your arms with a grin that challenged his playful tease.
Inasa’s eyes sparkled with intrigue.
“Looks like I’m in good company, then. You’ve certainly stirred things up, haven’t you?” Inasa said, his tone casual, like they were discussing the weather rather than racing egos. “You don’t mind if I take a good look at your driving skills, do you?”
You raised an eyebrow, the sudden challenge sparking a flicker of excitement within you. “You want to race me? Here and now?”
In Inasa’s grin widened, enthusiasm radiating off him like a beacon. "Yes, but unfortunately not today, I only had enough time to come to check out the competition. My crew's got a race coming up, and I was curious if you’d be interested in challenging a couple of us,” he offered casually, shooting a glance at Bakugo. “You know, if you’re brave enough to take on a real team.”
Bakugo’s eyes narrowed further, his jaw tightening at Inasa’s words.
“What makes them real? Their flashy shirts and tricked -out cars?” Bakugo scoffed, his voice dripping with disdain. The corner of Inasa's mouth quirked up, unbothered by the jibe.
“Flashy colors and big mouths will only take you so far, but at the end of the day, it's skill behind the wheel that truly counts,” he shot back, unwavering as he leaned casually against his Nissan , the sleek car gleaming under the fading sunlight. The tension thickened as Bakugo opened his mouth to retort, but you interrupted, sensing an opportunity to escalate the rivalry in the air.
“Why don’t we settle this then?” You stepped forward, a determined glint in your eye as you looked between Bakugo and Inasa. “If you think your crew’s got what it takes, let’s race them. Two against two, just like the last time."
Inasa’s grin widened, his enthusiasm bubbling over as he nodded, unfazed by the intensity brewing around you .
“Sounds like a plan!” Inasa replied, his voice laced with excitement. He stepped away from his Nissan, extending a hand toward you with an infectious grin. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”
You eyed his outstretched hand for a brief moment, weighing the challenge and the consequences. You could feel Bakugo’s searing gaze boring into you, a silent demand for dominance beneath the surface. Ignoring the tension simmering in the air, you clasped Inasa’s hand, the gesture sending a thrill of excitement through you.
“Let’s do this,” you declared, releasing his grip and stepping back, heart racing with the prospect of a new challenge. Bakugo’s fiery gaze smoldered beside you, the tension between the three of you still palpable as if the air itself pulsed with anticipation. Inasa's easy smile contrasted starkly with Bakugo’s barely contained frustration, the temperature dropping several degrees in the wake of silent competition.
"How about this Saturday? We’ll set up here, on Musutafu Pass," Inasa suggested, his demeanor unyieldingly confident as he turned his head slightly, gauging your response to the proposition.
“Saturday it is,” you replied, adrenaline surging within you at the thought of a race against Inasa and his crew. You couldn’t shake the feeling that this would be a turning point. This wasn't just about racing anymore; it was about proving who you were in this cutthroat world. Thrilling anticipation bubbled within your chest, igniting a fire that propelled you forward. Bakugo stood beside you, his tension palpable as if he were a coiled spring ready to snap at any moment.
Inasa's grin widened further, his enthusiasm infectious.
"I expect to see you there as well, former King Bakugo." His teasing tone cut through the tension, the words ringing like church bells in an empty square. Bakugo’s expression twisted, a storm brewing behind his fiery eyes.
“Cut the games, Inasa,” Bakugo snapped, his jaw tense, frustration spilling over in a rush.
Inasa held his hands up in mock surrender, his smirk refusing to waver under Bakugo’s fiery glare.
“Hey, just here to have some fun. Racing is all about pushing the limits, after all, right?” He chuckled, looking between you and Bakugo, seemingly unfazed by the brewing storm.
"Well it's been lovely, but I really must go now. See the two of you on Saturday!" Inasa turned on his heel with a confident swagger, the corners of his mouth still lifting in that infuriatingly charming smile. He slid into his Nissan, revving the engine as he glanced over at you and Bakugo one last time.
"Don't keep me waiting!" With that, Inasa pulled away, the roar of his Nissan echoing down the mountainside like thunder, leaving you and Bakugo standing on the asphalt, tension thick enough to slice. The sound of the Nissan faded into the distance, leaving a haunting silence in its wake.
Bakugo’s expression morphed into a scowl as the silence settled between you two, heavy with unmet expectations and unspoken challenges. He pivoted to face you, annoyance radiating off him like heat waves rising from scorched asphalt. Your heart raced as you met his eyes, the air thick with unresolved tension.
"Nice going, Rookie," he snapped, stepping closer. "You think you can just run around proving yourself against anyone that walks in? You’re gonna get buried under all the hype.” His voice dripped with irritation, and you could see the frustration simmering in his eyes, a storm threatening to break loose.
“Maybe I’ll get buried,” you shot back, your voice steady as you squared your shoulders, refusing to let him intimidate you. “But I’m not backing down. You have no idea how much I’ve worked to get here.”
Bakugo’s expression hardened, something between annoyance and begrudging respect flashing in his eyes.
"Tch. Whatever. I'm gone." He turned, fists still clenched, and headed toward his RX-7, the tension in his shoulders radiating like a heatwave. You watched him for a moment, heart racing with a mix of admiration and irritation spiraling within you. There was an undeniable thrill in facing him, a fierce intensity that drew you closer, yet pushed you away all at once. You took a breath, steeling your resolve, feeling the embers from last night reignite within you.
“Bakugo!” you called after him, the words escaping before you could think them through. He paused, turning to face you, his expression a tense mixture of surprise and annoyance.
"What?" He crossed his arms, leaning against his RX-7 with an impatient scowl.
You approached cautiously, adrenaline thumping in rhythm with your heartbeat. The air between you felt charged, electric, as if the very mountains surrounding you buzzed with anticipation. You locked eyes, willing the vulnerability to stay hidden behind the armor of confidence you carefully crafted.
“Just... remember what I said,” you ventured, voice steady despite the rush of emotions swirling inside. “This rivalry, it’s only the beginning.”
Bakugo’s expression flickered, something beneath his hardened exterior shifting as he studied you, a flash of consideration sparkling in the depths of his fiery gaze. He narrowed his eyes, the tension momentarily easing as curiosity mixed with bitterness.
Without a word, he got into his rumbling car and took off. You watched as the RX-7 rocketed down the mountain pass, the vibrant glow of its taillights fading into the distance until they vanished altogether. Once it was gone, you had a moment to catch your breath, the sharp chill of the mountain air filling your lungs. The adrenaline began to ebb, leaving behind a lingering exhilaration that left you buzzing.
You exhaled slowly, the events that just transpired playing on repeat in your head.
Momo is gonna kill you.
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