Inko stood by the grill with All Might, the two of them debating the proper flip timing for the burgers. Mitsuki had commandeered the drink station, barking orders at Masaru, who dutifully arranged cups and ice with the patience of a man who'd learned to tune out his wife's volume years ago.

Izuku was already in the pool, floating on his back, his hair plastered to his forehead. He was mid-laugh at something Katsuki had said from the patio chair he'd claimed, arms crossed, face set in his usual scowl.

The sound was unremarkable. A hinge that needed oiling, a familiar noise in a backyard full of familiar noises.

But Katsuki looked up anyway.

You stepped through the gate, sunglasses perched on your head, a light summer dress catching the breeze. Your hair moved with it, and you didn't seem to notice—too busy scanning the yard, a small smile already forming as you spotted your family.

You called out a greeting, casual and warm, like you'd just stepped out for a glass of water instead of arriving after months away.

Katsuki's scowl didn't move. Neither did he.

He just watched.

He looked at Izuku. Then back at you.

He was going to kill Izuku.