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Midoriya noticed it a few days ago after class. It was so small at first he just thought it was another freckle on his hand, at least until it started to get bigger and change color. The moment he realized what it meant his stomach twisted with anxiety, embarrassment, and oddly enough, excitement. At this point, he wasn’t sure how he’d handle anyone else finding out just yet. The plan was to keep it to himself, at least for a little while; but of course with his luck, he barely made it a day before someone found out. “Holy crap, you have a soulmark!” Blood splattered from Toshinori’s mouth the moment he caught sight of it, the shock sending him into a coughing fit. He doubled over, pain shooting shooting up his bandaged abdomen. Midoriya quickly pulled his hand away from Recovery Girl as if he’d been shocked by lightning and screamed, hiding his face as he turned bright red. “As eloquent as ever, All Might.” Chiyo turned to the coughing man with a stern look before pulling Midoriya’s hand free to get back to her work. It did little to stop the boy from wrapping his other arm around his face in an attempt to hide. “Please find some restraint. You’re going to reopen your wounds and you startled this poor boy when I haven’t even finished patching him up.”“Ah, I’m sorry, I got a little too excited…” Toshinori breathed between coughs, wiping blood from his mouth and glanced at the boy sympathetically. In the time he’s gotten to know Midoriya, he really shouldn’t have expected anything less than this kind of reaction. “All Might, really that is no excuse. You don’t just go blurting out about something this personal,” Chiyo huffed, shaking her head, “I did my best to respect Midoriya’s privacy when I first noticed his mark.” “You knew?!” Midoriya squaked, daring to peek out from behind the safety of his arm. “It’s not difficult to notice the change when you’ve been coming here everyday since classes began.” She gave him a displeased look before she patted his bandaged hand tenderly. “Maybe this will give you incentive to take better care of that hand of yours.”Midoriya bite his lip, knowing he hasn’t been doing a very good job and his gaze dropped to his hand. The soulmark sat just below his knuckles, but strangely, it was like he could still sense it was there even though it was covered. It was a simple design; a few lines formed what looked like greenish-blue crystals. That...wasn’t a lot to go on for who it could possibly be. “I don’t know...it’s just, I was hoping I could keep it to myself for a while...To think it through.” Midoriya sighed and found himself staring at the ceiling. “There hasn’t been much time for that, has there?” Toshinori sighed, glancing out the window of the infirmary. All the excitement had made him forget for a moment what they had just had to endure not even an hour ago. It’d all been a close call, too close for comfort, the villains breaching their security and infiltrating the USJ. His mind was still reeling after everything, but he found some comfort they were safe and even having this conversation at all. “My mom doesn’t even know yet,” Midoriya gasped, as if it’s the first time it’s really occurred to him, "Oh god, when she finds out I’m never going to hear the end of it...” He tugs at his hair and could practically hear her shrieking already.  “Don’t worry about it, dear.” Chiyo said with a sympathetic smile. “You can count on us to be discreet from now on. Isn’t that right, All Might?” She turned to give him a pointed look. “Ah, right! My lips are sealed,” Toshinori rubbed his head nervously and glanced back down at her. She jerked her head slightly towards Midoriya, gesturing him to say something. Right. Words of encouragement. “Everything’s going to be okay.” “Thanks,” He let out a soft sigh, but the worry wouldn’t leave his face. “So, um, any thoughts on who it could be?” Toshinori couldn’t for the life of him hide his grin,  “If you don’t mind sharing that is," he added quickly.“Um, well, I've given it a little thought,” Midoriya's face heated up and he traced a finger over his bandages absently. “Since it’s still pretty small, I think it has to be someone I met after coming to UA.”“Makes sense, a new environment also means meeting a lot of new people.” Toshinori hummed, “Could it be one of your friends?” Midoriya squeaked and turned bright red. “No, no! I mean, I only have a couple and they're just friends! I’m sure of it, I think...”Toshinori laughed and leaned over to give the boy a pat on the head. “Well, I guess your best shot at finding out is waiting for your mark to change again. Just keep an eye on it and who you’re talking to. You’ll figure it out sooner or later.”“That’s what I’m worried about,” Midoriya whined, running his hand through his hair, “Ah, this is so frustrating! Knowing that I have a--” he stopped short. Finding it difficult to actually say it. “I don’t even know who it is yet and even if I do find out, then what?”“You have your entire life ahead of you to find out, dear.” Chiyo shook her head. “It won’t kill you not knowing for a little while longer. You don’t need to decide anything right now if you aren’t ready.” “I guess you’re right...” Midoriya sighed, though he didn’t seem convinced.“Alright then, I’ll give you two some space.” Chiyo hummed, heading out and stopping by the door. “I’ll be back in a little while to check in on you two. Get some rest. ” She added sternly.  “Yes ma’am,” They spoke up, sitting up a little straighter.“The two of you are too alike for your own good,” She sighed, but a small smile curled on her lips as she turned to leave. A silence fell between the two of them. Neither of them really sure what to do or say. Eventually, Midoriya found himself glancing over at All Might. Well, maybe more like staring, but Midoriya couldn’t help but scan for any bit of exposed skin and wonder...The public had almost no information about All Might’s personal life. It was one of his most well-kept secrets along with One for All. Every time he was asked about it no one really got the answers they were really looking for. 
“So, All Might, you’ve gotta tell us.” An older news clip came to mind. “Anyone special out there?”

“Why, I really shouldn’t say it,” All Might chuckled, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

“Oh, come on, not even a little hint?” The host insisted. “There must be someone out there made just for you.”

“Well, okay, I’ll let you in on the secret.” All Might chuckled and leaned in closer. Everyone waiting with bated breaths. “Justice is my soulmate! But she is not a kind mistress, and yet, I still love her.”

While it may have not been what they wanted, the audience still roared with laughter.
If All Might made a habit of keeping One for All a secret with humor, did that mean he did the same about his soulmate? Midoriya’s eyes widen. Wait, was he onto something or...?For all he knew, his soulmark could be covered by his bandages, or somewhere people wouldn’t see it. During their training at the beach, Midoriya remembered All Might had a one piece swimsuit. That couldn’t be a coincidence, right? So maybe it could be on his chest or back maybe? Looking back, Midoriya couldn’t think of a time All Might’s never worn anything or his hero costume tearing to reveal anything. “Uh, kid? You’re starting to creep me out...” Toshinori raised an eyebrow. The staring was already weird enough, but now he was starting to mutter. “Knock it off!” “Sorry! Sorry!” Midoriya waved his hands frantically and turned away embarrassed. “It’s just...I was just wondering…” He should just say it, it was only fair with how All Might had pointed his out earlier right? “Do you have a soulmark, All Might?” Toshinori stared at him, his expression unreadable before he turned away wordlessly. A shadow cast over his face and he brought his hand up to cradle his side. “I guess it was natural for you to be curious…but there isn’t really anything left of it to see.” Midoriya stared at his side and his breath hitched.  It was hard to forget, seeing his scar for the first time. The skin was so damaged and discolored, he couldn’t even remember seeing anything that remotely resembled a soulmark. If one had been there before, it must have been completely destroyed when he'd been injured all those years ago. “I-I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have…”“Hey, it’s okay. You didn’t know,” Toshinori closed his eyes and let out a sigh. “It’s just, some villains are sick enough to use these marks against heroes to hit where it hurts...For your safety, I suggest keeping yours covered in the field...” Midoriya nodded without a word; he could see the logic. Their line of work was dangerous and villains would use any means to get the upper hand. When he had the courage to look up again, he was surprised to see All Might had a far away look in his eyes. There was a pain and loneliness in his gaze. Something Midoriya hasn’t seen since the first time they met on that roof. “What about your...did something happen to your soulmate?” Midoriya asked, resting his hand over his own mark. “What? Oh, he...We’re not on speaking terms anymore,” Toshinori closed his eyes and struggled to find the right words. Instead, all he could hear in his mind were those last harsh words that couldn’t be taken back. “Ah, sometimes this soulmate stuff doesn't work out.” “Oh.” Midoriya looked away again, unsure of what else to say. “Don’t worry about me, kid. It happened a long time ago.” Soulmarks were known to fade. Toshinori wasn’t sure what would have happened to his, but maybe it was easier not knowing. “I’m sorry for bringing this stuff up now. You’ve got enough going on as it is.” “No no, it’s fine,” Midoriya tried to argue. “Still...It couldn’t have been an easy thing to deal with.” Toshinori took a chance to look over at the young boy and winced. He looked lost, like Midoriya was unsure what to say or do, not that he blamed him. Toshinori hadn’t intended to derail things like this. He had to think of something; he couldn’t just leave things like this. Before he could think of anything inspiring or helpful, Midoriya quickly stood up from his bed, but almost immediately lost his balance. “Hey, what are you doing?!” Toshinori shot his arm up, quick enough to catch him. “Ahhh, underestimating how much my legs feel like jelly.” Midoriya looked at him apologetically. “If you need me to come over to you, you could have asked.” Toshinori sighed and helped him to his side. “Sorry, sorry, you’re right.” Midoriya grimaced as he sat down. “If Recovery Girl saw you, we wouldn’t hear the end of it,” Toshinori shook his head, unsure what he was going to do with this boy. “So, what is it?” Midoriya stared at him like he was looking for something. Toshinori wasn’t sure what to make of his behavior until the boy reached up and rested his hand on the older man’s head. Toshinori was taken aback at first and unsure of what to do. “Uh, sorry if this is weird,” Midoriya said as he pulled his hand away. “It’s just, you do this for me when I need cheering up and you always do so much for me. I just wanted to let you know I’m here for you too, like you’re always here for me--” Toshinori suddenly pulls Midoriya into a tight embrace, or as tightly as their injuries would allow it. “It’s not weird, kid...” A soft laugh echoed in his ear while that same hand ran his fingers through his hair again. Midoriya was at a loss for words, but did his best to return the hug. It was a little awkward with their arms pressed uncomfortably into bruises and aching muscles, but neither of them seemed to mind too much. “Thank you, for everything...” Toshinori finally said, holding him a little tighter. His side ached painfully, but he ignored it. “You’ve done so much more for me than you’ll ever know.“
You can’t tell him. 
“You’re welcome?” Midoriya turned his head to try to look at him, but his bangs kept his face hidden. “Is...everything okay?” I’m running out of time.  “I’m sorry, it’s just been one of those days I guess. Another close call.” There were too many. It was only a matter of time now. He took a breath and pulled away and offered a small smile. “Let’s not make it a habit of getting into too many, alright?" “Agreed,” Midoriya laughed nervously. Though, now that he could see his face, he couldn’t shake the feeling that tugged at his heart. All Might was smiling, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “What are the two of you doing up?” Chiyo yelled as the door smacked open. Detective Naosama stood behind her unsure what to do as the older woman stormed inside to scold the two. Naomasa watched Toshinori and Midoriya  scrambled to find an excuse, but there was little they could do against Recovery Girl’s wrath. Once the storm had calmed and the two were back in their proper places, Naosama dared to enter the room and offered his friend a sympathetic look. “Hi, Toshinori. Been a while.” He gave him a sheepish wave. Blood sputtered out of Toshinori’s mouth at the sight of his old friend. Once he recovered from his initial shock, the two began to talk about the recent events at the USJ. Naosama hadn’t stayed for long, only long enough to ask a few questions and answer a few of Toshinori’s. Midoriya couldn’t help but watch them while they talked. All Might mentioned something about Naomasa being someone he trusted and a friend. Then, while they two were speaking, Midoriya couldn’t help but notice how relaxed All Might was around Naomasa. Well, it was more All Might had his guard down around him and just looked...tired and he wasn’t trying to hide it.It reminded Midoriya of All Might’s smile from before Naomasa arrived. All Might may have been smiling, but there was a deep sadness and pain in his eyes. It must have been something only a handful of people were able to get this close to ever see. And three of them were in this room. It still surprised Midoriya sometimes that he was one of those people now. How many people did that leave that were allowed to see this side of him?When Naomasa left, the two were ordered to get some rest, but Midoriya’s thoughts still wandered. He found himself glancing over at All Might. The hero’s eyes were closed and his chest moved with each breath as he drifted off in no time. The day’s events were finally catching up to him. It was these quiet moments, Midoriya thinks, where he saw a completely different side of his hero. It wasn’t an act, or a mask, or a brave face. Just him. Even so, back when they’d first met, All Might had told him he smiled to hide his fear. Was that still true? Before he could find an answer, Midoriya’s own eyes felt heavy. He decided not to fight the sleep his body desperately needed anymore. The next thing Midoriya knew, he was being stirred awake by a hand gently stroking his hair. He mumbled under his breath about giving him 5 more minutes or something like that, but was met with a laugh instead. “Sorry to wake you, kid,” Toshinori ruffled Midoriya’s green curls. “I have some things I need to take care of before I head out. Make sure to get some rest and get home safely.” “You too...” Midoriya mumbled tiredly, leaning into his hand. Toshinori’s expression softened, the small gesture pulled at his heartstrings. Chiyo chuckled as she watched the two. “Now, now, don’t fall back asleep. It’s getting late. You should be fine now to make your way home.” Midoriya whined before he forced himself to sit up and yawned. Toshinori watched him fondly, before he started making his way to the door, but Chiyo stopped him gestured for him to lean in closer. “You need to take better care of yourself, Toshinori. For your sake and for Midoriya.” “I...I know,” Toshinori sighed softly and glanced back at the boy while he got ready, only to notice when the boy had stopped to stare at his bandaged hand again.Toshinori could tell, despite everything that’s happened, all this soulmate stuff still weighed heavily in Midoriya’s mind. There was never a moment where a million things weren’t going through his head. Whether it be his training or studies, something was always on his mind. Regardless, he knew Midoriya always had been quick to make plans to overcome any obstacle in his path. However, emotions like this...complicated things. It was definitely a new challenge he’d have to face. Midoriya might never fully be prepared, but that didn’t mean Toshinori couldn’t try to help him. “Midoriya, I know you have a lot on your plate right now...” Toshinori spoke up softly. “That’s an understatement...” Midoriya gave him a sheepish smile as he looked up from his hand. “Let an old man give you some advice, my boy,” Toshinori said with a small smile, afraid of what could happen if he didn’t say anything here and now. “Your soulmark, it’s good you’ve found out you have someone out there. Don’t let a sad story like mine cloud your judgement. In the end, whatever decision you make is up to you.” It made Toshinori feel a little guilty that he couldn’t exactly encourage Midoriya with his own story, given he didn’t have a happy ending. That didn’t mean Midoriya couldn’t have his own. “Oh, um, right.” Midoriya looked away a little embarrassed, his face turning red. “Don’t let something like this pass you by. This time of your life -- when you find your soulmate -- it’s always hectic. Emotions going haywire.” Toshinori chuckled softly while Chiyo nodded beside him. “You’re going to be feeling a lot of new things. You might even think you’re going crazy, but that’s part of the experience.” Midoriya only got redder and Toshinori suddenly felt a little embarrassed himself. Toshinori quickly cleared his throat and brushed back his hair to distract himself. He wanted to get to his point before he accidentally said anything that would make things even more embarrassing for both of them. “Uh, whatever the case, you’ll just have to roll with it and see where it takes you.” Toshinori may have many regrets about what happened to him and Mirai, but there were still things he was glad he experienced in their time together. “You never know what will happen until you take that leap forward. For what it’s worth, I hope everything works out for you in the end, Midoriya.” “I...Thank you, All Might,” Midoriya gave him a weak smile before taking a deep breath, “for telling me your story and everything else. It makes me feel a little better, oddly enough.” Toshinori nodded with a smile before turning to head out and Midoriya watched him go with a sigh. All Might was right; there was so much he hadn’t experienced yet. He couldn’t stand back and let something like this slip past him. It wouldn’t help him if he got worked up by what could or couldn’t happen. “Thank you for all your help.” Midoriya turned back to Recovery Girl once he was ready to go. “Take care, deary. Be safe on your way home.” She smiled. “And good luck.” Midoriya smiled and nodded before he made his way down the hall, but he felt a burst of energy and found himself running the rest of the way to the school’s entrance. He was surprised, but happy to see Iida and Uraraka had waited for him to head home. After the day they had, filled with emotional turmoil and near death experiences, he was glad they were okay and appreciated the company. Though, Midoriya found himself unable to make much conversation on the way back. Instead his thoughts went back to his soulmark. Should he just tell them now? They were his closest friends and he could trust them, right? Midoriya’s face burned up and he turned to face the window. Would it be weird to ask them if either of them could be his soulmate? No, yes, definitely weird. What was he thinking? But, he could always ask to be sure and ignore how mortifying asking outright would be. Though, if neither of them were his soulmate, he’d be back at square one. His thoughts began to swirl and he felt like he was going to explode. “Ugh, school’s been so crazy.” Uraraka sighed. “I was hoping there was more to talk about and deal with than almost getting expelled or getting attacked by villains.”  Don’t you dare-- Midoriya told himself, but the words left his lips before he could stop himself.   “I have a soulmark!” He blurted out, burying his face in his hands. 
Why, why did he just say that. Well, this was definitely happening now. 
Iida and Uraraka stared at him stunned. In his defense, Uraraka did want something to talk about, but why did he have to say that . A few seconds ticked by and Midoriya wondered if there was any way to open the doors of this moving train and leap out to escape this torment. “Deku! I can’t believe it! I’m so happy for you!!” Uraraka finally shrieked and hugged him tightly. Midoriya sighed in relief and felt some of the tension leave him. “Uraraka, calm down, you’re making a scene,” Iida scolded her. “Oh, relax, Iida. There’s, like no one in this train cart,” She argued before she grinned at Midoriya. “Let me see it! Let me see it!” “Um, I can’t. It’s on my hand...” Midoriya replied once he got back some brain function and raised his bandaged hand for her to see. “It’s pretty small right now...It kinda looks like crystals.” “Ooooh, well show it to us when you can take those off.” Uraraka smiled as she pulled away, ruffling his hair teasingly. “Do you know who it is yet?” Iida asked curiously, cupping his chin. “No, not yet...” Midoriya looked away, his blush grew darker. “If I’m being honest, I’m super nervous about this whole thing and didn’t really think it through, but I was...kind of hoping I checked with you two first...” Smooth, getting right to it then.  “Oh! Of course. I’ll let you know once I know anything.” Iida chuckled at Midoriya’s bashfulness, though his cheeks turned a little pink. He glanced over at Uraraka. He was puzzled when he noticed how quiet she’d gotten. “Is something wrong, Uraraka?” “Umm...I wasn’t sure how to tell you guys, but I already know who my soulmate is...” Uraraka cupped the sides of her face, turning bright red and avoided looking at them. “I kinda just found out recently too...It wasn’t really anyone I expected either...” “Congratulations, Uraraka!” Iida exclaimed, clasping his hand on her shoulder while Midoriya stared at her in surprise. “Uh, yeah!” Midoriya added quickly. “Congrats, but who is it?” “I think it’d just be easier to show you...” Uraraka sighed and raised her hand. On her palm was a small triangle with fire coming out from the middle. The way it spread out past the edges of the shape made it look very much like an explosion. Iida and Midoriya stared at it and their minds went blank. 
No, it couldn’t be...

Earlier that Week 
“Round face?” Bakugou gawked, staring down at her with wide eyes, “The hell are you doing! Put me down!”“You don’t need to shout! Besides, you almost walked into traffic!” Uraraka yelled back at him, pulling him down to the ground before releasing her quirk. “A thank you would be nice!”“Damn, you have a death grip,” Bakugou scowled, rubbing his arm when he froze and quickly covered his arm. “Show me your hand.”“Eh?” Uraraka looked at him confused before she looked down at her palm. There was a simple triangle she did not remember having this morning with fire practically exploded from the middle.There was a moment of silence between them until they finally dared to look up at each other again. “No, this isn’t right!” Bakugou spat out while he clutched his arm as if to keep it away from her. “If anyone, you must be Deku’s soulmate. You nerds are perfect for each other!” “It looks like a firecracker!” Uraraka yelled back. “It literally just changed in front of us!” They both looked at it again, but it was still changing. Moments later the mark settled so that there was smoke on the edges. Bakugou gripped his arm tighter, and Uraraka stared at him. “Let me see it.” “Not here!” Bakugou snapped before cursing to himself. “We need to find a place to talk. Now.” Bakugou kept his pace ahead of her, not bothering to make sure if she could keep up. Uraraka had to jogged a bit to catch up with him a few times. They weren’t really walking together, but not exactly apart either. The silence only seemed to make things even more awkward. They somehow found themselves in a small cafe not to far from the campus. Luckily, no one they knew was there, so they took a corner table and hoped to be left alone. They sat there and waited for their drinks, unsure of what to do or say. Uraraka opened her mouth to say something, but stopped short when their drinks arrived. “Here you are, you two. Is this your first time here?” A cheerful man with skin made of bark and vine hair offered them a warm smile as he set down their drinks. Then turned his attention to Bakugou, “Can I get anything else for you and your girlfriend?” “SHE’S NOT MY--” Bakugou snapped before abruptly glancing at Uraraka with a light blush, then glared at his drink. The whole cafe became silent and Uraraka could feel a few people were staring. “Uh, no thank you. Sorry about that...” Uraraka said quietly to the stunned man. Bakugou's outburst startled the poor guy enough that a few flower buds sprouted in his hair. The man backed away, excusing himself, more than happy to leave them be. Uraraka glanced up at Bakugou, who was still glaring at his drink. That was new. She expected him to go completely off on that plant guy, but instead Bakugou just looked really flustered. Neither of them relaxed until conversations picked up in the cafe again. Uraraka was sure she could hear a few people muttering about them, though. “What the hell is this,” Bakugou asked flatly and gestured to his drink. “Oh, they were out of what you wanted so I got two orders of bubble tea,” Uraraka replied as she took a sip of her drink. “Try it. See if you like it.” Bakugou stared at it skeptically and picked up the drink. He took a big gulp and nearly choked on the tapioca balls. “What the fuck?! What’s in this?” “Don’t drink it so fast! They’re jelly pearls. It’s supposed to be there.” Uraraka winced, noticing more people gave them dirty looks. “Sorry, I should have warned you...” Bakugou muttered under his breath once he managed to clear his throat. He glared out the window and slowly started to sip his drink, much to Uraraka’s surprise. She figured he must have been more startled at first than anything else, so he must have liked it if he was still drinking it. She doubted he’d admit it though. “Um...Do you hate me?” Uraraka couldn’t help but ask. Things still felt really awkward. She was sure they both had the same thought: Why you?  “Eh? I hardly know you.” Bakugou set his drink down. He looked around to make sure no one was around and pulled up his sleeve to show her his soulmark. “That’s the problem with all this .” Uraraka peered over and saw a small jagged triangle on his forearm. Inside was what looked like a galaxy with purples, pinks and blue. She could only assume it was supposed to represent her gravity quirk. When she looked back up at him, she noticed he was glaring at the mark. “This is all fairytale bullshit,” Bakugou spat, pulling his sleeve down and crossed his arms. “I don’t really believe in all this soulmate stuff. Take it with a grain of salt for what this means for us.” “Oh.” Uraraka couldn’t help but feel dejected, and she stirred her drink to distract herself. This was going well. “But you believe it, don’t you?” Bakugou asked. He didn’t plan to say anything else. If anything he wanted to get up and leave, but the look on her face kept him in his seat. Damn fate. “Your parents are soulmates right?” “Uh, yeah, they are...” Uraraka replied, not sure where he was going with this. “Figured. So, are they happy together?” He asked, taking a sip of his drink. “Yeah, of course they are.” Uraraka couldn’t think of a time when they were ever apart for long. They were both very happy and supportive of each other and have had a long marriage. “My parents aren’t soulmates, no soulmarks, nothing, but that doesn’t stop them from being pretty happy together to the point it’s annoying.” Bakugou found himself staring out at the window. “I just hate the thought of being told what to do, who to love, by anyone. Especially fate, destiny, whatever you want to call it. That’s a decision I want to be able to make on my own.” Uraraka looked at him in surprise. She hadn’t expected this to be the direction the conversation would take although not wanting his life to be predestined felt very much like Bakugou. She wasn’t sure how to explain it since they barely knew each other. “I understand. Still, it’s not something you get to just decide on your own,” Uraraka replied firmly. “I still have a say in this, and it’s still going to be a decision we both have to make in the end.” Bakugou started to glare harshly at a speck on the window, then glanced back at her with a smirk. “You don't want to fucking date me. I'm a handful.” “I've got two hands,” Uraraka said without thinking. She froze when she realized what she said and Bakugou stared back just as shocked, his cheeks turning red. “I mean! What I'm trying to say is that it doesn't mean I don't want to try to get to know you first!” “Fine.” Bakugou leaned on his elbow, resting his chin on his palm, as he turned to look at anywhere but her. “Don’t push it, it’s not like we’re getting married tomorrow or anything.” “Eeep! I know, I know!” Uraraka felt her face heat up, and she covered her face. When she looked back up at him again, she noticed he looked lost in thought. She was about to ask him what was wrong when he got up and spoke. “Some normal relationships work out just fine without destiny telling them who to love.” Bakugou said, looking down at her and Uraraka suddenly felt a lot smaller. “How different is it really from an existence where no one had their soulmates assigned? It's effort and commitment that leads to things turning out okay.” With that, Bakugou was gone, and Uraraka was left alone to think about his words. She stared at his empty seat and noticed he’d taken his bubble tea with him. So he did like it. 
Present
“I didn’t expect Bakugou of all people to be mature about all this,” Iida finally spoke up after hearing what had happened, his hand on chin as he considered everything. “Though I’m not surprised he didn’t take well to be bound by fate.” “Sure sounds like him...” Midoriya sighed, still trying to wrap his head around what happened. “Okay, now that you two know, just, uh keep it quiet for now?” Uraraka waved her arms around frantically. “I’m still figuring it all out and would appreciate if the class didn’t start teasing us.” Iida rested his hand on her shoulder and smiled. “You have my word.” “Uh, yeah, don’t worry about it. I understand what you’re feeling.” Deku smiled weakly. All this soulmate stuff was nerve wracking and a lot to handle on top of everything else. “Thanks, guys.” Uraraka sighed and turned to Midoriya to give him a reassuring smile “Still, I hope this doesn’t make things awkward between us, Deku. I really appreciate you. You’re one of my closest friends.” “Well...Whatever happens, I hope everything turns out okay for you two. Kaachan and I need to settle this thing between us, sooner or later. I just hope it doesn’t get in the way of anything,” Midoriya said firmly; he didn’t want to go back on his word. There was some good in Bakugou, deep down, and Uraraka was the most positive person he’s ever met, so maybe this was a good thing. “Heh, thanks Deku. It’s not fair the way Bakugou treats you, whatever that’s all about, but I hope things work out for you too,” Uraraka replied and smiled warmly. “Thanks, but still...For you and Bakugou at least, things might be a little rough around the edges, but...you’ll just have to roll with it and see where it takes you. You never know what will happen until you take that leap forward,” Midoriya said before he noticed Uraraka and Iida staring at him. He started to sweat. Did he say something weird? “Such wisdom, Midoriya...” Iida nodded in approval. “And to think you’ve only just gotten your soulmark as well. I commend you.” “Yeah, Deku.” Uraraka smiled. “It actually makes me feel a little better.” “This must not be an easy situation to be in, considering your rivalry with Bakugou. However, despite it, you are a kind friend,” Iida added. “Oh, um, no problem!” Midoriya couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed. “It’s just, someone I really trust just gave me that advice...” “Hey, you told someone before us?” Uraraka pouted. “That’s not fair, who is it?” “Ah! No one! I mean!” Midoriya panicked as the train came to a stop at the next station. “Well this is my spot, see you guys later!” He bolted out before either of them could stop him and sighed in relief at his luck. “Hey, don’t run! You’ll strain yourself!” Iida called after him, sticking halfway out the door. “I’ll inform you if I find a soulmark!” “Oh, right, thanks Iida!” Midoriya blushed, slowing down at the top of the stairs to the station and turned back to look at them with a smile. “Bye, Deku! Take care!” Uraraka popped up beside Iida to wave. “See ya...” Midoriya said quietly and managed a small wave of goodbye before the doors closed. He watched the train leave until they were out of sight before he headed down the stairs. “Midoriya is a good friend.” Iida took his seat again. “So, you wouldn’t mind it if you end up as soulmates?” Uraraka teased as she sat down beside him. “I mean! I don’t think I’d mind if it were the case.” Iida looked away flustered. “I haven’t really given something like this thought. I haven’t really felt like that towards anyone before...but if it’s Midoriya I don’t think I’d mind.” “Heh, I guess that’s fair,” Uraraka admitted and rested her chin on her hand. “Hmm...If things do work out somehow between me and Bakugou, I won’t stand for him treating Deku like dirt.” “I have no doubt.” Iida smiled at her fondly. “I’m not a fan of Bakugou’s hostility towards Midoriya. I can’t imagine the cause for it.” “Maybe Deku stole his mochi when they were little,” Uraraka joked, “And he’s never let it go since.” “Perhaps, though it must have happened more than once to build Bakugou’s endless rage.” Iida couldn’t help but tease back, and the two shared a laugh. “You know, if platonic soulmates were a thing, I think you and Deku would be mine.” Uraraka smiled sweetly. Iida returned the smile. “The three of us have become very close in a short amount of time,” Iida replied. It was very easy to feel at ease around the two of them. “I’m going to have to agree with you.” Uraraka let out a content sigh, and the two fell into a comfortable silence. She let herself look out the window and watched the city pass her while her thoughts drifted back to Bakugou. She was already so close to Iida and Deku, and she wasn’t even sure if Bakugou even liked her. When she thought back, she remembered feeling so relieved the moment she saw that Bakugou was alright after USJ attack. On the other hand, he just sort of glared at her when they made eye contact. She wondered if he really hated her and all this soulmate stuff, especially since he seemed to make it very clear at the cafe. Bakugou absently poked at his dinner while his parents chatted. He occasionally glanced over at them, their hands resting over one another’s on the table. His parents had already given up asking him about what had happened during the USJ attack and if he was alright. He was fine, it happened and it was over. It wasn’t something he wanted to talk about, not when he had something else on his mind. 
Bakugou hated that his first instinct after the attack was to look for Uraraka. There had been a tightness in his chest the moment the class had been separated that didn’t go away until he saw her standing with the rest of the class. It made him angry how relieved he felt in that moment.

“At least she’s okay...” Bakugou muttered, looking away when he noticed she looked back at him. She didn’t even look injured. Good.

“What was that, Bakugou?” Kirishima asked curiously.

“Nothing! Mind your own damn business!” Bakugou snapped.

“Okay, okay, geez, calm down, buddy.” Kirishima said, wanting Bakugou to take it down a few notches.

“I am not your buddy!” Bakugou snapped again.

“Sure.” Kirishima glanced up in the direction Bakugou had been looking and his smirk grew to a toothy grin. “Like you totally didn’t just make sure Uraraka was okay. What’s that about?”

“Nothing! Just drop it!” 
Bakugou forced the memory away and looked away from his parents’ intertwined hands to glare at his dinner. He hated that this damn soulmark was making him feel things. Damn fate, making him feel worried for a girl he hardly knew. He tried to force back that feeling in the pit of his stomach that he needed to protect her or anything. Uraraka made it out alive, didn’t she? She was fine on her own without him. Midoriya sat in his room, leaning over his desk while he absently doodled in his notes. He found himself redrawing his soulmark in the margins. It was strange that he could remember the details even when it was covered. At a glance, it looked like some sort of crystal. If Iida was his soulmate, what was it supposed to represent? Maybe his rigid and strict personality, like the structure of a crystal? He let out a long sigh and leaned back in his chair. Maybe he was overthinking things. He wouldn’t know anything for sure until he heard the verdict from Iida. His phone began to vibrate, and Midoriya fumbled to grab it when he recognized Iida’s name as the caller ID. “Hello, Iida?” Midoriya answered tentatively. This was the moment of truth. “So...” “Good evening, Midoriya.” Iida paused and took a deep breath. Midoriya gripped his phone tighter. The suspense was killing him. “I checked, and I don’t appear to have a soulmark. I’m sorry.” “Oh,” Midoriya replied, his mind going blank for a moment. “I mean! It’s nothing you have to apologize for. Looks like I’m back to square one again...” Midoriya sighed tiredly and slouched over his desk to stare at the soulmark doodle in his notes. “Still, I know you were eager to find out who it could be. I don’t blame you for being disappointed.” Iida said . “If it means anything, I wouldn’t have minded being your soulmate.” “Um, thank you.” Midoriya’s voice cracked, and he could feel his face heat up. “Um, right back at you?” “Sorry, was that strange to say?” Iida chuckled when he noticed how flustered Midoriya was. “No, no, thanks, you’re a good friend...” Midoriya said, and he felt himself relax a little. “We’ve come a long way since the entrance exams,” Iida added thoughtfully. “I’m sorry about back then. I realize now I may have been too stern with you.” “Maybe just a little bit.” Midoriya smiled weakly. “Regardless, I’m glad we both passed and have found a friendship out of this.” Iida continued. “Yeah, I feel the same,” Midoriya agreed. It was much easier to talk to Iida now that they had started to get to know each other. “To tell you the truth, this soulmate business has got me thinking...” Iida let out a sigh. “I’m not even entirely sure that I want someone in my life like that -- romantically, I mean.” “Oh? Why’s that?” Midoriya asked and sat up. “I’m not sure really. I’ve been teased in the past for not having any crushes or not feeling any kind of attraction to anyone,” Iida replied. He was often called too serious as well by his peers. “I suppose that’s part of the reason why it’s been difficult to connect with people outside of family. It’s odd, I know.” “It’s not,” Midoriya said, relaxing back into his chair. “I mean, I get it’s hard to connect with people when they expect you to be a certain way.” “Yes, with you and Uraraka it feels different...” Iida replied. “Earlier, after you left, Uraraka called the three of us platonic soulmates, and it made me feel happy, like I had somewhere I belonged.” Ever since he began at UA, Iida had felt he could be more himself. He honestly felt just fine forming close bonds with others, and he was quite fond of his classmates. Perhaps the attack had made it clearer to him. “I like the thought of us being platonic soulmates...” Midoriya chuckled softly. “I think it fits the three of us pretty well.” “I’m glad.” Iida said fondly as he took off his glasses. “I think I’m going to turn in for the night soon. Don’t stay up too late and get some rest.” “Thanks, mom.” Midoriya snickered when Iida made a noise in protest. “One more thing, Midoriya,” Iida spoke up a little nervously. “I’m not sure where I was going with all this. This is something I still want to figure out about myself, but I just wanted you to know. I’m sorry if I brought it up on you all of a sudden.” “No worries. Thank you for telling me, Iida.” He was glad Iida felt comfortable enough to confide in him for something like this. “Thank you for listening.” Iida smiled and appreciated Midoriya’s understanding. “Oh, and good luck in your search for your soulmate. Whoever it is will be lucky to have you in their lives.” “Thanks...” Midoriya chuckled softly. He made a vow to himself that when he figured out who his soulmate was, he wouldn’t abandon Iida or make him feel ignored. He didn’t deserve that kind of treatment. “Goodnight and take care.” “Goodnight.” Midoriya let out an annoyed sigh and tossed his phone on his desk. He ran his hands through his hair in frustration as he stared at the ceiling. Back to square one in his search, and now he didn’t even have any leads. He raised his bandaged hand over his head and visualized the soulmark. He thought it was some sort of crystal, but if it kept leading him to dead ends, he’d have to rethink the symbol. If it wasn’t a crystal, what was it? “You’d think fate would make it easier...” Midoriya groaned at the vagueness of his mark. These marks usually represented the soulmate’s quirk, but the mark didn’t hint at a distinct quirk. So, if it wasn’t a quirk, it could be symbolic...“Who are you supposed to be...?” “Shouto, will you be okay tomorrow?” Fuyumi asked as she offered her younger brother a cup of tea. “I overheard you and dad talk earlier. He said he wanted to go over what happened today during your training.” “I’ll be fine.” Shouto took his cup and let his hand frost over to cool it enough to drink. “Thank you, Fuyumi.” “Still, are you okay with reliving all that so soon? I’m sure you must have felt really scared,” She said, sitting beside him at the table. “Not really.” He shrugged and took another sip of his drink. “What? Shouto, you can’t be serious.” She looked at him surprised. “Not even a little?”“If anything, the attack felt more like a nuisance,” He admitted and rested his chin on his palm. Once he had gotten a grasp of the situation, he didn't feel a need to be scared. Fear would have only distracted him. “I didn’t let my guard down though, but most of the people I fought barely had any real combat experience.” “Sometimes it’s hard to remember you’re 15...” Fuyumi looked at him, concerned. “You know it’s okay to feel scared, right?” “Don’t worry about me, Fuyumi. I’m fine.” He averted his eyes. There were few things that scared him; he didn’t want any of that to affect him. “I’m glad it’s over. I had to get home to my sister after all.” “Alright, alright, but if you need to talk I’m here. Okay?” She gave him a small smile and rested a hand over his. “I know. Thank you.” Shouto returned the smile before he finished his tea. “I’m going to bed. It’s been a long day.” “Alright, sweet dreams.” Fuyumi sighed and watched him put his cup in the sink. Shouto nodded, then headed down the hall to his room. He didn’t want to scare Fuyumi, but there were a few times that he truly did feel scared during the attack.

USJ Attack

Shouto stared in shock as Nomu broke free from his ice, losing an arm and a leg in the process. It should have been incapacitated it, but then his limbs regenerated in an instant and he stood up without a scratch. Before anyone registered what had happened, Nomu had lunged straight for Bakugou. He would have killed him had All Might not acted and thrown Bakugou to safety. It was in that moment that Shouto felt like he was looking at a real monster -- something that seemed as if it couldn’t be stopped and would kill anyone, even a child, if they were in its way. However, Shouto’s fear had faded once All Might had taken Nomu out. It’d been a relief to see that the monster was not as invincible as it made itself out to be. After that, all that was left for the rest of them was to deal with a few of the lesser villains who were coming back to their senses while All Might took out the last two real threats. “Change of plans, looks like we’re fighting after all,” Kirishima called out and activated his quirk as the lesser villains started to regain their senses. “Will you be joining us?” Shouto turned back to look at Midoriya. Shouto tensed when he saw the absolute fear in Midoriya’s eyes. He followed his gaze and saw his eyes were glued on All Might. Why was Midoriya so scared? By all means, it should have been an easy battle with Nomu out of the picture. It wasn’t anything the Symbol of Peace couldn’t handle, but when Shigaraki and Kurogiri lunged for him, All Might didn’t move. Shouto felt the fear in him deepen, and he looked back at Midoriya. He couldn’t help but wonder if there was something the rest of them couldn’t see, but Midoriya could. “Midoriya--?” Shouto tried to reach out for him, but a gust of wind blew fast them and he was gone. “Stay away from All Might!” Midoriya screamed, and Shouto eyes widen when he saw him jumping straight for the villains. But just before Midoriya was about to strike the mist villain, a wormhole opened, giving the villain beside him an opening to strike back. “Midoriya!” Shouto cried out, paralyzed with fear -- one touch from his quirk and he’d be dead. What was he doing? Shouto had to do something, but he was too far, even for his quirk to reach. He wouldn’t be fast enough to intervene. Why wasn’t All Might moving? Why wasn’t he helping Midoriya, who had been so ready to jump in to help him? A sudden hail of bullets shot from somewhere above them, and all hell broke loose. A shot struck the younger villain’s hand, and Midoriya fell to the ground, injured, but alive. Shouto couldn’t find it in himself to move or think clearly while the USJ filled with reinforcements, taking out the rest of the villains. Relief crashed through him like a truck, but his heart was raced like it would burst out of his chest. At least it was over now... The next thing Shouto knew, Kirishima was running to inform them they were supposed to head for the entrance. But what about... When Shouto looked back in the direction Kirishima had come from, he noticed a wall of cement where Midoriya and All Might had been. Without much of a choice he followed the others. Once he was at the top of the stairs, he looked back down to the cement wall, but no one was there. It made him feel on edge for some reason. Shouto hadn’t relaxed until Detective Naomasa had informed them that Midoriya and All Might were fine and would make a full recovery. Shouto let out a sigh when he closed the door to his room. There was so much that had happened that he was still trying to wrap his head around. He wasn’t sure why he had froze like that. Was it the thought of almost seeing a classmate die and not being able to do anything to stop it? When he thought about it, that was probably the first time he’d spoken to Midoriya, but he’d still prefer if he didn’t die.  Midoriya.  He wasn’t sure what to make of him, really. His power was dangerous, both to himself and to others if he didn’t control it. Though, Shouto had been impressed when he saw it on the first day of class. He’d heard about the entrance exam, but it was different experiencing it in person. There was that, but it was also that rush of air pressure when Midoriya had jumped forward. He had a very powerful quirk, but when it came down to it, what he did was stupid and reckless. He would have died had the other teachers not arrived in time. Though, Shouto didn’t believe Midoriya was reckless without a good reason. Was All Might too injured to keep fighting? Shouto vaguely remembered seeing blood on his shirt. Perhaps it was a weak spot prone to damage? Whatever the case was, Midoriya saw he needed help and jumped, despite what it meant for himself. In an odd way, there was something inspiring about the way he’d gone out to assist someone without any hesitation. “You’re something else, Midoriya. I’ll give you that,” Shouto muttered before he pulled off his shirt, revealing a series of branching black jagged lines with accents of red and pink on his upper left arm.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“Sure is a nice night.” Toshinori sighed deeply as he made his way home. It was a pleasant evening; it was hard to tell something so terrible had happened just hours earlier. He stopped to stare at the stars with a weary expression as the weight of the day really began to set in.  “It’s been a hell of a day...”

There were too many close calls. It was just a matter of time now, wasn’t it? He closed his eyes, shaking the thought from his head. For now, there were still a lot of people who looked up to him and needed him to stay strong. He owed it to them to keep moving forward and to make the most of the time he had left.

Toshinori’s gaze dropped to the building he’d stop in front of labeled Musutafu Orphanage.

He knew he shouldn’t.

That nagging voice in his head told him. He really ought to just go home and get some rest. Doctor’s orders after all, but, like he said, there were people who needed him.

“Oh, Mr. Yagi, we didn’t expect to see you so late,” An elderly woman greeted him as he entered. “You were scheduled to come in this afternoon. The children kept asking about you”

“Director Suzuki, I’m sorry. I know I should have called, but something came up...” Toshinori rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. “I was on my way home and wanted to drop by and check on the kids--”

“Toshi! Toshi! Toshi! Mr. Scarecrow!” Toshinori barely had time to brace himself when a half a dozen kids barreled into his legs. Ms. Suzuki couldn’t hold back a laugh as the poor man flail his arms in an attempt to keep his balance.

“Hey kids, sorry I’m so late...” Toshinori laughed softly and patted a few of their heads.

Mr. Scarecrow.

Of all the things he’s been called, it was that one that stuck. Back when he first started helping around the orphanage, the kids thought he was a scarecrow due to his appearance. At first it was because a few of them were afraid of him, but now...

“Where were you today, Mr. Scarecrow?” Daisuke clung to his leg and tugged at the bottom of his shirt with a pout on his lip.

“I told you he was okay!” Ikuta lightly swatted Daisuke’s arm with his sentient hair. Her hair tended to be more active when stressed, floating a few inches off her head as if she were underwater.

“What happened to your face?” Shay, a girl with mint green hair, pointed to the bandages on his face.

“Did you get into trouble?” Fuji floated up inches from his face, a pair of radiating wings fluttered behind her.

“Uh, well, I was at my other job today, but things got a little hectic. There was a little trouble, but nothing Mr. Scarecrow couldn’t handle.” Toshinori replied, reaching out to pick up the girl. Fuji made a face, resting tiny hands on his face as she looked at his scrapes and bruises.

“Mr. Scarecrow, did you hear what happened to All Might? Is he alright?” Daisuke tugged at his shirt again to get his attention.

“Yeah, he’s fine, just came from seeing him.” Toshinori shifted Fuji in his arms so he could look down at the boy and gave him a thumbs up. “He wanted me to tell you guys he’s going to be just fine.”

“Were you helping him deal with those villains?” Ryotaro asked, eyeing the other bandages peeking out from beneath his shirt.

“Uh, yeah, these villains were a little tougher. Sometimes even heroes like All Might need help.” Toshinori replied.

At the orphanage, “Mr. Scarecrow” was a friend of All Might and had occasionally gotten him to visit the kids when he could. Though, some of the kids had started to notice that “Toshinori” was never there when All Might visited. At the time, he had to think of something quickly and said that Mr. Scarecrow was off fighting evil so All Might could have a chance to come visit them. Very heroic of Mr. Scarecrow actually. Meanwhile, the kids were a bit skeptical that “Mr. Scarecrow” could fight hulking villains given how frail looked.

“Why didn’t the news mention you?” Ikuta asked.

“Because Mr. Scarecrow works in the shadows,” Toshinori teased, waving his hands around onimously.

“What is your quirk anyway?” Ryotaro asked, crossing his arms.

“Yeah, you never tell us!” A few more children chimed in.

“I’m very strong.” Toshinori grinned, but kids stared at him, his noodle arms in particular, very skeptically. “Oh, you don’t believe me?” his grin grew wider before he scooped them into his arms with ease. “I’m stronger than I look!”

The children screeched in delight as Toshinori spun them around with ease. He laughed along with them until pain shot through his side and blood shot out of his mouth. He felt light headed and quickly had to set them back down. The children hovered around him worried, while Ms. Suzuki shook her head as she tried to offer him help as he lapsed into a small coughing fit.

“Please try not to strain yourself, Mr. Yagi.” Ms. Suzuki sighed as she patted his back lightly.

“I’m fine, I’m fine.” Toshinori spoke between coughs. It wasn’t the first time they’d seen him like this, but he still tried to offer them a smile to let them know he was okay. Blood suddenly began to seep through his teeth.

Crap.

He might have overdid it.

Toshinori found himself being ushered to the nurse’s office with a stern look from the director to be looked over to make sure he didn’t reopened any of his injuries.

“What have you been doing? ” Nurse Kiyoko asked when Toshinori had pulled up his shirt and revealed his midsection and chest were covered in bandages, blood was seeping through.

“Fighting bad guys.” Toshinori shrugged sheepishly and Kiyoko gave him a look.

“Is that what you’re up to when you’re not here?” Ms. Suzuki asked as Kiyoko started to unwrap the bandages at his side. Once the bandages were gone, both were very surprised to see how much scar tissue was on his side.

Toshinori said nothing and looked away hoped they wouldn’t ask about it. Thankfully Kiyoko worked silently to clean the injury and redress the wound. Sighing, Toshinori found himself glancing towards the door only to notice the kids huddled, watching him. He instinctively raised a hand to cover the scar from their view and looked away flustered.

“Is that a battle scar?” Ryotaro couldn’t help but point.

“How’d you get that? It looks like it really hurt.” Daisuke added.

“It looks like a flower,” Shay tilted her head. Toshinori looked at the young girl surprised by her comment. He found himself looking at his scar. In a way it sort of did look like a flower and he grimaced. A sunflower of all things.

“Did a villain get you?” Another child asked.

“A long time ago, but a hero saved me.” Toshinori closed his eyes.

“Children, you’re supposed to be getting ready for dinner. Go on,” Ms. Suzuki motioned them with her hand. The children grumbled and pouted, looking between the director and Toshinori.

“Are you staying for dinner?” Ikuta looked up at him hopefully.

Toshinori chuckled. “Well, if no one minds.”

“Of course, you’re always welcome here,” Ms. Suzuki sighed, giving him a worried look. “But please, don’t strain yourself.”

“I promise,” He gave her a tired smile. He wasn’t even sure he even had the energy left in him anyways. He turned his attention back to the children. “Don’t worry about me. Go get ready for dinner. I’ll stay for a little while.” Toshinori waved them off, glad to see their faces light up. “Though, I’ll need to go home and rest after fighting those bad guys. They were pretty strong.”

“Mr. Scarecrow’s so cool.” He heard a few of the kids exclaim as they headed out. Toshinori watched them go with a fond smile.

“You aren’t very discreet, are you, All Might?” Ms. Suzuki sighed once and Toshinori spat out blood in shock. He looked up at her, stunned, while Kiyoko also gave him a knowing look. “Oh, don’t look so surprised. I helped raise you after all. Don’t worry, your secret's safe with us.”

“It wasn’t that hard to figure out.” Kiyoko added as she wrapped his side with fresh bandages. “Never here when All Might was, showing up injured after villain attacks. The coincidences were starting to pile up.”

“Usually my looks are enough to keep people from making the connections...” Toshinori sighed as he wiped the blood from his mouth.

“What

happened

to you?” Kiyoko looked at him concerned.

Toshinori was silent and gave the two a pained smile, “I was...hurt very badly, but I couldn’t just stop being All Might. I had to go back and this...” He gestures at himself, “The consequences I have to deal with now.” In the end it was like he did this to himself.

“I appreciated you came all this way to check on the kids, despite the day you’ve had, Toshinori.” Ms. Suzuki rested a hand on his shoulder and smiled weakly. “They kept asking about Mr. Scarecrow before any of us heard about the attack. You’re important to them, just as much as All Might, if not more. I want you to remember that.”

“You bring smiles to their faces each time you drop by,” Kiyoko added as she began to put away her supplies. “So, take care of yourself.”

“I will…” He lowered his head. Recovery Girl had said the same thing. He needed to do better. Be better. “Thank You.”

By the time Toshinori arrived to the dining hall the children and caretakers were well underway setting up the room for dinner. He got to work setting out a few plates, skillfully moving around the children as they came and went. The first time he tried to help out he nearly fell on his ass and tripped over them more than once and broke a few plates here and there. Now he moved and adjusted to the flow.

Once they all settled down to sit for their meal, Toshinori found himself by several children as they all crowded in chairs around him. A few of the younger ones sat on his lap and ate with him. He listened to some of the kid’s stories, mostly about how they’ve been or their favorite TV shows or heroes. Moments like this helped him forget his worries and reminded him what he was fighting to protect. It was nice.

Toshinori reached over to pick up his drink, but knocked his fork off the table. Daisuke reached out, using his magnetism to catch the fork before it could hit the ground and returned it to it’s spot beside Toshinori’s plate.

“My hero,” Toshinori chuckled, ruffling the boy’s hair.

A gust of wind blew into his face as a little paper crane landed on top of Toshinori’s head. He reached up to get a better look at it and Shay tugged his sleeve.

“It’s for you,”

“Oh, thank you! I’ll treasure it.” He grinned and she returned the smile as she used her quirk to float more paper cranes to the other caretakers.

Toshinori watched fondly and looked over the group of children. He made a note to himself to bring Midoriya here. Yes, he’d already taught him service through cleaning the beach and it also worked well with his physical training. This however, could help him on a more emotional and personal level. He’d learn a lot here, getting a new perspective, responsibility--

One of the younger children sitting on his lap yanked at his bangs a little too hard and two others beside him started to bicker which quickly escalated to screaming.

And patience. So much patience.

“Come back any time, Toshinori.” Ms. Suzuki said as she walked with him to the door.

“Yes of course.” He smiled in return before turning to look back at the building, “It’s been years, but this place has always felt a little bit like home.”

“And it was, for a short while,” Ms. Suzuki gave him a gentle smile. “Is that why you decided to come back?”

“A little bit.” Toshinori chuckled, “I wanted to return the kindness you and this place gave to me during a dark time in my life with the time I have left.”

“The time you have left? You talk like an old man. If you take care of yourself, you have your whole life ahead of you.” Toshinori forced himself not to grimace at her comment. Instead Ms. Suzuki laughed and shook her head. “A part of me still sees you as the boy who came here all those years ago. Doing everything he could to help others smile. I suppose some things never change.”

“I suppose they don’t,” he breathed out a laugh. “Have a good evening, Ms. Suzuki.”

Toshinori was exhausted by the time he finally got to his apartment. It wasn’t fancy or anything. The only thing it had going for it was the view and the ceiling was high enough to keep him from hitting his head on every door frame. Other than that, it was really just like any other apartment.

Still, it’s not like he had guests often, and he enjoyed being able to blend in. It gave him a much needed break from all the hero stuff. Though, Toshinori was sure he was starting to concern his neighbors each time he came home in bandages. It’s not like they suspected anything about his identity, at least not like Ms. Suyuki and Kiyoko had. To his neighbors and the world, he was an unassuming frail man.

Toshinori fumbled for his keys to the door. He was grateful his home wasn’t a long walk from UA. His only problem was that he kept stopping on his commute to help those in need; if he hadn’t, then maybe things would have been resolved faster at the USJ.

Everything was just a big mess now. He sighed softly and tried to open his door, wanting nothing more than to end the day. He groaned as he felt resistance from behind the door and forced it open.

Speaking of messes...

This place was modest, but it didn’t mean it was clean. He shoved aside some boxes that had fallen in front of the door and another sigh escaped him as he scanned the room. The room was filled with boxes of his things, along with merchandise and some gifts from over the years, most of which still needed unpacking.

Toshinori rubbed the back of his head. He’d been here for nearly a year, and things looked almost the same as when he moved in. He tried to clean before, but the mess only seemed to grow even when he wasn’t there. It was unsettling, like it had evolved and grown a mind of its own, and it was planning to take him out when his guard was down. A small shudder went down his spine as he spooked himself.

Back when he first moved in, he remembered trying to clean on his days off. He had opened the balcony to try to air out the place, but while he worked, he heard a cry for help from down below.

The next thing he knew, he had morphed into his hero form and jumped off the balcony. It was a little funny how shocked that villain was when All Might of all people had descended from the sky, yelling, ‘I AM HERE!’ Crime rates had really dropped in his neighborhood since he moved in, but the mess remained. The only place he really managed to keep clean was a small shelf with a photo of his parents and another of Nana.

“Hey mom, dad, Nana...” Toshinori sighed heavily while he addressed the photos while he took off his shoes. He nodded at Nana’s photo, before his attentioned lingered on the photo of his parents. “I’m home”

It was an old family photo, taken when he was around 12 or so. His mother, Akemi, had a warm smile on her face as she stood behind him, her arms wrapped around him while his father, Hikaru, stood beside them with an arm wrapped around her. A gentle smile spread across his face with a small scar peeking from the edge of his lip and his eyes were almost hidden from the light reflecting off his glasses.

Toshinori had always been told he’d gotten his smile from his mother, but that’s where their physical similarities ended. She had long, curly green hair that reached below her shoulders. Most of his looks actually came from his father, from the blonde hair and blue eyes. If anything, his father’s hairstyle wasn’t too different from his All Might form, excluding the bunny ear bangs. Toshinori’s hair only ever got close to being messy like his mother when he was young, but it somehow got neater with time. That is, until it decided to just turned into a bird’s nest and Toshinori realized it was a losing battle to try to tame it.

Still, he may not look very much like his mother, but they had very similar personalities. They were both cheerful, optimistic, kind and outgoing. In contrast, his father quiet, reserved at times and was much more mellow. When Toshinori thought about it, he felt he’s adopted a bit of both their personalities these days.

“It’s been a day, but I made it back in one piece...” Toshinori brushed some dust off the frame with his hand. “Um, I almost died today, but don’t worry, I’m okay.” He patted his side as if to assure them.

Toshinori knew he was an adult now, but he doubted his parents’ reactions to him getting hurt would have changed all that much. He could imagine his mom giving him a stern talk about being reckless again. It’s what happened more or less when he was a kid and broke his leg after trying to fly by jumping off the roof.

Back then, he had wanted more than anything to have a quirk, but he was a kid and not a lot was known about quirks quite yet. His mother would lectured him, and he and his father shared a look, knowing it was best to listen to what she had to say. It was unspoken, but Toshi knew his father was just as worried as his mother. Toshinori let the imaginary lecture play out in his mind. He knew that despite her stern words, his mother would end up hugging him and start to dote on him, glad he was okay.

He really couldn’t fly now, even with a quirk, but he could jump very high at least.

“I guess I should plan to visit you guys soon. It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” Toshinori smiled weakly. “Things have been a bit too hectic for me to make the trip. There’s no class tomorrow, so I can come visit then.”

It was better to go visit them in person to clean up their gravestones, and to let them know he’s alright. Since he couldn’t visit all the time, Toshinori had made a habit to always greet them when he got home. He usually found himself telling them about his day and found it therapeutic. It really helped him, especially after Nana died.

“I made it another day, Nana.” Toshinori smiled fondly at the photo of his grinning predecessor.

He took a step forward and nearly tripped over a stray magazine on the floor. He flailed his arms to keep his balance and winced, glancing over at his mother and knew she would not approve of the mess. She used to get on his case if there was even a single stray sock on the floor.

Toshinori took another look around and groaned, his shoulders sagging. He really shouldn’t try to clean up with his injuries. He only aggravated them more after he’d picked up the kids, something he really shouldn’t have done,  but now that the day was winding down he felt on edge.

Quiet moments like this made him dwell on the ‘what ifs’. What if he hadn’t gotten to the USJ in time? What if something had happened to the students? What if Aizawa and Thirteen wouldn’t be able to fully recover? What if Midoriya hadn’t jumped to help him? He needed something to do to keep those thoughts from overwhelming him.

Doing some light cleaning wouldn’t do much harm, right? It’s not like he was going to do anything crazy like pick up a couch. An old song found itself on his lips, and he hummed it lightly while he picked up a few things. He didn’t remember many of the lyrics, but he vaguely remembered his father singing it to his mother while doing chores.

A lot of his memories from that time felt distant, as if part of an old dream. It seemed like another life altogether and so much has happened to Toshinori since then. It was a lot to process day in and day out, but he did what he could to keep moving forward. He knew he was having a very bad day if he chose not to talk to the photos at all. So, that made today a good day, right?

Though, if he couldn’t talk to his parents, he tried to at least talk to Nana. He owed her his life in so many ways, starting with the day they met. When he was 14 his entire hometown had been leveled in a villain attack. The day had started like any other, he said goodbye to his parents before heading to school. He never imagined that would be the last time he’d step outside of his childhood home. After that day, there was nothing left and that part of his life was over, practically wiped from existence in an instant. He closed his eyes, the smell smoke and the heat of fire returned to him so easily.

Toshi stumbled around, surrounded by demolished and burning buildings. There was a ringing in his ears and his head felt like it was filled with fog. He barely even knew where he was or where he was going. Something just told him he had to keep moving, but it felt like he was walking through a nightmare. His foot snagged on a piece of debris, and he stumbled to the ground.

He tried to get up again, but fell back and found himself staring at the sky as a mix of snow and soot fell onto his face. Wanting to rest, he closed his eyes when he heard someone call out to him. He didn’t resist when they picked him up to check if he was okay. He opened his eyes slowly and thought he was looking at his mother. She was crying, but her voice didn’t sound right. When his vision finally focused on her, he saw an injured woman he didn’t recognize. She was covered in scrapes and cuts and looked to be some sort of hero—at least she had a cape.

“I’m so glad you’re okay...” She tried to smile through tears, but something in her broke, and she lowered her head.

The ringing in his ears got louder, and it was hard to hear what she was saying—something about not being sure if she’d find anyone alive after all this. She kept apologizing, saying it was her fault that she couldn’t stop it. Toshinori didn’t know what to do or say, so he did the only thing he could think of and smiled, hoping it would make her feel better.

“You’re a strange kid smiling like that...I like your spirit.” Her voice broke, but she smiled back and held him tighter. “What’s your name...?”

“Toshi...” It was all he could manage to say.

“I’m Nana, it’s nice to meet you, Toshi...” She smiled through the tears and wrapped her cape around him like a blanket. “Let’s get you somewhere safe...”

After that, he ended up in an orphanage with other displaced kids, waiting to hear any word of his parents. In the meantime, Toshi did what he could to help the rest of the kids.

“You’re always smiling whenever I come to see you, Toshinori.” Nana ran her hand gently through his hair when she managed to come by to check in on him. “It’s admirable, the way you try to help others cope after what’s happened, but are you alright?”

“Yeah, I’m okay...” Toshi closed his eyes and offered her a sincere smile. “I think right now, most of us, especially the ones who have no idea what’s going on or why this happened, need hope right now. That things are going to be okay again…”

“You’re definitely a strange kid, but I think that’s what I like about you.”

Back when he’d been at the orphanage, Nana always found time to check up on him now and then. He’d been a complete wreck the day information had been released concerning who had died in the attack. By then, Toshinori had been smiling so long for others, to keep hope up, that he had felt himself break the moment he found out his parents were among the casualties. Deep down, he knew they were gone, but that didn’t stop him from hoping until the very end.

At least, meeting Nana gave him hope: a dream to become a hero who could save people with just a smile. He held on firmly to that dream, to make her proud and to be able to tell the world he was there. Even as he stood in front of Nana’s grave, Torino, his adopted father, at his side, Toshinori smiled for her through the tears, determined to keep her legacy alive.

As the years passed, he felt his resolve start to weaken, and the smile felt more and more like a mask. He felt alone, but had to keep enduring for the sake of the world. It became difficult for him to talk to his parents, Nana; even Torino tried to call and send letters, but Toshinori let them pile up, unsure of what he could possibly say.

He felt at a loss, and it was eating up at him—until Midoriya came into his life. During those long months of training, he found himself talking to the photos about Midoriya for hours. He’d talk to his parents about how much they’d like the boy and would have loved to meet him and he would tell Nana everyday how much Midoriya was improving.

The day Toshinori found out Midoriya had passed the practical exam, he barged into the house and screamed, “He passed!!” He was sure the neighbors could hear him, but it didn’t matter. He even got a bit choked up and raised a glass for the occasion.

Despite everything that happened, he felt at peace, something he hadn’t felt for a long time. Everything was starting to feel okay. It was like he could breathe easier now. He didn’t think that would be possible after losing a lung, but he wasn’t complaining.

Toshinori busied himself with his task again, noting he was making some progress. He could see the top of the table, now. He looked around for anything else he could do before he turned in for the night. He tried to gauge the size and weight of a stack of boxes that he swears warped its way to the door to his room. Or were they always there, and he just sort of shoved past them every morning? He sighed, not willing to admit how much of a mess he was in his personal life.

Even on his days off he never really had a moment to himself, given he usually spent it out of the house. He liked to use his time to volunteer at the orphanage and occasionally at hospitals to make All Might appearances when he could. Most of what he did at home was sleep and eat, which he supposed was why he could never keep the place organized.

Shaking his head, he picked up the first box. He winced, realizing it was heavier than he’d expect it. He was just about to set it back down again when the bottom of the box ripped open and a bunch of All Might merchandise tumbled out and hit his foot.

Toshinori groaned loudly. Whenever he tried to clean the mess just kept growing. He bent down to pick up a few things, but the motion suddenly shot pain through his injury, sending him to the ground with a thud. He writhed and waited for the pain to subside. He wasn’t sure how long he waited, staring at the ceiling.

He found one of the bobble heads by his hand and picked it up, displeased. He was met with his painted face on the toy and a beaming smile. It was mocking him.

“You’ve got no one to blame but yourself for this one, Toshinori...” He muttered, tapping the bobble head’s face, and it nodded in agreement. “Literally...”

He sighed and absently rubbed his side in an attempt to soothe the pain. It still stung from when Nomu had grabbed him. He wondered if it’d been a coincidence or not that villians were somehow always drawn to this spot, even when his soulmark wasn’t even there anymore.

Toshinori would never forget the hourglass with sand the color of a red and blue nebula. The hourglass was sophisticated, yet the edges of it were jagged with wisps of smoke coming off it. Most of the smoke came from the top and base of the hourglass.

Before, he had figured it was supposed to symbolize Mirai’s ability to view the future and their time together. Sometimes these marks were more metaphorical than anything. Neither of them noticed when the hourglass had begun losing its grains of sand over the years. It was as if it was counting down to Mirai’s premonition, long before either of them even knew what it was.

“If you go on like this you’ll fight a villian and meet a death...too gruesome to describe!”

Toshinori grimaced as Mirai’s words echoed in his mind. Now that the hourglass was gone, he had no sure way of telling how much time he had left, but Mirai had put it 6 or 7 years from that day in the hospital.

At first, he wasn’t very afraid he knew his death was coming. Now, he couldn’t stop thinking of everyone he’d leave behind. Toshinori had known long before coming to this city that he’d have to find a successor, but he hadn’t given much thought to how attached he’d become.

Midoriya...He was in his life now. The thought of his mortality and his time slipping away with each minute made it so hard for him to let go of that hug. He was scared Midoriya would live a life without him, just as he had to when Nana died. He missed her everyday and never wanted Midoriya to experience that loss. It…wasn’t fair.

When they hugged, Midoriya had told him he wanted to be there for him, just like he has for him. In that moment,it hit Toshinori how close they’d come to losing each other. It wasn’t only that he’d nearly been killed, it was his declining health and that damn premonition. No matter how he looked at it, his time was limited. He closed his eyes, no longer able to hold the doubts and fear at bay. He took a deep breath and pulled out his phone from his pocket.

Shaky hands fumbled and brought up an image of a boy with messy hair crying at the beach. Toshinori let a small smile formed on his lips. He found himself looking at this image often to encourage himself and to see how much Midoriya had grown.

“He’ll be fine...” Toshinori said to himself quietly, desperately wanting to believe his own words.

Pain jabbed into his side, and he groaned again. He was too exhausted to even move an inch. This was pathetic. He was literally just outside of his room, but it might as well have been a mile to his bed. Toshinori huffed softly, slowly accepting the floor as his new bed. At least Midoriya would definitely turn out much better than himself. At least he hoped.

Toshinori stared at his phone and began to scroll through his photos absently. He didn’t have very many, mostly for safety in case he ever lost it in public. He felt a tug on his heart and realized he was looking for something he knew he should have deleted a long time ago. It was stupid, but that didn’t stop him from going to his list of contacts just to make sure if it was still there. His eyes widened when he saw Mirai’s profile was still there.

Had he really forgotten to delete it or...?

Of course he does this when he’s too tired to stop himself Yes, it’s not weird, looking for a photo of the man fate bound to you, only to cut him from your life. Toshinori couldn’t shake the feeling anymore, he had to see him, even if it was like this. Without giving it a second thought, he clicked Mirai’s name to expand the image. His breath caught in his throat when he saw him and realized that in a way, Mirai was staring back at him for the first time in years.

Though, smiling was a more accurate word, and seeing it again made his heart ache. Most people didn’t think Sir Nighteye was one to smile, but Toshinori knew different. Toshinori absently ran his finger along the image. It used to be so easy for him get Mirai to make that dumb smile just by smiling back. He could still remember the exact moment he took this photo.

“Have you seen my glasses--?” Mirai looked up, surprised to see Toshinori lounging on their bed and wearing his glasses with a playful grin on his face.

Toshinori took the photo the moment Mirai started to laugh. His expression softened. Nighteye’s laugh felt like music to his ears. He’d taken several photos, determined to capture this moment no matter how many photos it took. A blush formed on Mirai’s face, and he started to look rather flustered.

“Give them back,” he asked curtly, hand opened towards him.

“Kiss first.” Toshinori tilted his head and puckered his lips.

Mirai sighed and pretended to be annoyed as he sat on the bed beside him. He rested a thumb on his, parting his lips as he leaned forward. Toshinori jumped back when he suddenly felt a cool spray of mint hit his mouth rather than the warmth of Mirai’s lips.

“You haven’t brushed your teeth yet, heathen.” Mirai stared at him with a blank expression, holding a mouth spray in one hand, while taking his glasses back on with the other. Toshinori could only stare at him, baffled, before he burst out laughing.

“Well since you helped me freshen up~” Mischief shined in his eyes.

Mirai’s eyes widen and he had no time to defend himself as he was tackled onto the bed. He turned his head quickly, making Toshinori miss his mark as he planted a kiss on his cheek. That didn’t deter Toshinori as he pecked several kisses across along Mirai’s cheek, jaw and nose; anywhere he could reach while his beloved squirmed beneath him.

“Brush your teeth!” Mirai yelled, curling his fingers around his, but was now trying and failing to stop himself from laughing.

Toshinori rested his head against his and laughed heartedly. Mirai leaned up to finally kiss him, but failed as they came to realize it was almost impossible to kiss while laughing. The realization only caused them to laugh even more. Toshinori gave up and buried his face in Mirai’s neck and waited to calm down.

“I can’t believe I fall for your charm every time,” Mirai finally breathed, his laughter subsiding, running his fingers through his golden locks.

Toshinori turned to look up at him with a grin. Toshinori rolled back onto the bed, pulling Mirai over him.

“You know you love it.”

“Unfortunately.” Mirai settled against him, tracing a knuckle against his cheek. His expression held no amusement. Toshinori’s grin only grew and Mirai cracked, returning the fond look as he leaned down to place a proper kiss on his lips.

Toshinori blushed, surprised by how much something so curt felt like an “I love you,” and accepted the kiss eagerly. He slipped a hand beneath Mirai’s shirt along his back until he found what he’d been searching for. He traced his fingers along his soulmark, earning a soft sigh from Mirai.

“We’re going to be late for work, Toshinori.” Mirai hummed, though his eyes remained closed.

“Ten more minutes.”

“Five.”

As far as Toshnori remembered, it’d been much longer than five minutes.

Toshinori just stared at the photo, willing the memory away and he closed his eyes. What happened between them was a lifetime ago. It didn’t matter though. After difficult days like this, he always found himself missing those moments.

He...felt alone and there was nothing he could really do now to rid himself of this feeling. He missed having someone by his side, to hold, to tease, to love and to be loved in return. There...really wasn’t anyone else he held as close to his heart as Mirai. That part of his life was over now. What could he do, with the little time he had left?

“What the hell am I doing...” Toshinori groaned softly.

Stop being so sentimental.

He clicked out of the screen, but to his horror, it lit up and the phone began to ring.

“Shit, shit, shit!” He quickly fumbled to end the call before it was too late.

Curse his square thumbs!

“Sir Nighteye speaking.”

Toshinori froze the moment he heard Mirai’s voice. He covered his mouth to keep himself from spitting up any blood, and his mind went completely blank. He wasn’t sure what to do. What could he even say?

Do something!

“Hello? Is anyone there? Are you alright--”

Toshinori let out an undignified squawk and hurled the phone across the room. His mind was racing too fast to think straight. Did he even hang up? Shit, what if he could still hear him. Toshinori was too scared to even move and laid there completely still, not daring to move. This was not one of his proudest moments, he had to admit. He curled up tightly on the floor hoping if he ignored it, none of this had happened.

Why did he have to be so weak and make a stupid mistake like that.

In the end, this was just about all his heart and sleep deprived body could take for a night. He felt himself lose consciousness, and for once he welcomed it. Though, just before he passed out, he thought he heard his ringtone screaming from across the room.

“FOR A PHONE CALL...IS HERE!”

As the days began to pass by at the orphanage, Toshi would see other kids come and go. Despite the destruction and chaos, they’d been reunited with family again and he kept waiting for his turn. At the very least, he wanted to hear something, anything to calm the doubt that sunk in his stomach. He just wanted this nightmare to be over, so they could go home, wherever that would be now. It would be over soon; it had to be.

“Quit spacing out, Toshi!” One of the other kids brushed past him, carrying juice boxes to set out for lunch.

“Sorry!” He grimaced, stepping out of the way and of course straight into Ms. Suzuki.

“Are you okay, my dear?” She skillfully balanced the plates in her hands while steadying him on his feet.

“Uh, yeah, I’m sorry about that.” Toshi smiled sheepishly.

“It’s alright, how about you help me set these out?” She asked, offering him a few plates.

Toshi nodded and got to work, finding himself humming a song while he set everything out. When he set down the last plate, he noticed one of the caretakers walk in with a boy he hadn’t seen before. The boy was small, he couldn’t have been older than 7 or 8. He had short messy green hair and glasses that looked a little too big for his face.

Though, the thing that stood out the most to Toshinori was how empty the boy looked. It was as if there was no emotion on his face. The sight tugged at something in his heart.

“Toshinori, do you think you could speak to our new arrival?” Ms. Suzuki rested a hand on his shoulder.

“Oh! Sure. What’s his name?” He asked, not taking his eyes off the boy.

“That’s the thing. We haven’t been able to figure that out.” She sighed, setting down and arranging the plates on the table. “He hasn’t said a word since the attack. You’ve gotten some of the other kids to open up. Do you think you could give it a try?”

“I’ll do my best,” He offered her a smile. “Leave it to me!”

Toshi approached the boy, determined to help however he could. He was already seated at the end of the table by himself. That wouldn’t do. He opened his mouth to speak and gently rested a hand on the boy’s back to get his attention. Whatever words he was about to say left him the moment he felt a jolt and the boy looked up, just as surprised. Toshi gasped when he saw his eyes; they were completely black and his irises were bright purple.  He stood there, mouth hanging open in awe, until he noticed the fear in the boy’s eyes.

“Hey, are you okay--?”

“Get away from me!”

The boy screamed and Toshi was sent tumbling back as he was pushed out of the way. He managed to catch himself on the table and watched the kid leave shocked. The kid who wouldn’t say a word to anyone finally spoke and it was that...ouch. It was better than nothing?

Toshi found himself moving his food on his plate absently during the rest of lunch. The caretakers managed to find the boy hiding under his bed, but no one could get him to come out. Each attempt was met with more screaming to get away and to be left alone.

When lunch time finally ended, Toshi stood, knowing what he had to do. He couldn’t just give up now. He grabbed a plate of food and a juice box. Ms. Suzuki gave him a sympathetic look from across the room as he headed out of the lunch hall and to the bedrooms.

Once he was there, he scanned the room and noticed a blanket was pulled over the edge of one of the beds. He took a deep breath and walked over. Toshi had been thinking over and over what he could have done wrong to spook the poor kid. Whatever it was, he had to be patient with this one. Time to start with a peace offering.

“Hey, so I’m sorry about earlier.” Toshi sat down beside the bed and set the plate and juice down, “I brought you some food.”

To his surprise, the blanket curtain moved a bit and a small hand reached out to pick up the juice box, only to disappear back under the bed. Toshi grinned and laid down beside the bed. Okay, small progress. He could work with that. At least he wasn’t being yelled at to leave this time.

“Thank you...” A small voice spoke up.

“Toshinori,” He propped his hand on his chin, “What’s your name, Nighteye?”

“What...what did you just call me?” The curtain opened again and Toshi was surprised to see a pair of golden eyes instead of the dark ones he’d seen before.

“Nighteye.” Toshi hummed, “Your eyes, when they changed before. They’re really pretty. I like your eyes now too. They’re really bright, like the sun. It’s like you have day and night eyes! That’s pretty cool.”

The boy stared at him surprised and turned bright red and he quickly hid his face behind his hands. “You look more like the sun,” He muttered, peeking through his fingers to look at Toshi as if it was hard to look at him directly.

“I’ll take that as a compliment!” Toshi laughed and the boy seemed to relax a little, “Is it alright if I call you Nighteye? Wait, is just Nighteye too rude? Should it be something fancier? Sir Nighteye. How's that?”

The boy looked at him bewildered and for a moment Toshi thought he said something wrong again. His expression was unreadable until a smile spread across his face and he started to laugh. Toshi’s heart leaped at the sound.

“I like that name...” Nighteye looked at him fondly.

“It’d make a great hero name!”

“Hero name?”

“Yeah! I’d love to have a cool hero name like that to be honest.”

Nighteye snorted, his smile growing, “I...never thought about being a hero. At least, not with a quirk like mine...”

“Oh? What’s your quirk?” Toshi tilted his head.

Nighteye tensed and looked away, “My mom thinks I can see people’s future, kind of like her, but it’s different...I can see more than her, but none of it makes any sense,” he said, rubbing his eyes, “It’s like I’m watching a bad dream and it’s hard for me to remember once it stops.”

“Whoa, really?” Toshi stared at him in awe before he noticed tears prick at the edges of the boy’s eyes. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“For a while, when I saw people’s future, I kept seeing fire and smoke.” Nighteye’s breath hitched, unable to meet Toshi’s gaze as tears began to fall. “I could see the attack was coming, but I didn’t know when or what to do to stop it. If I knew how to use it, I could have helped, then maybe none of this would have happened.”

“Hey, that doesn’t matter. What happened wasn’t your fault,” Toshi reached out instinctively to rest a hand on his cheek. “It was a villain, someone who wanted to hurt people. I think it makes you a good person that you want to use your quirk to help people.”

Nighteye looked at him surprised and found himself staring at the ground. “I want to stop bad things from happening before they happen...”

“Train to use your quirk!” Toshi smiled brightly, “You could go to a hero school and then become a hero!”

“I…” Nighteye looked back up at Toshi as if trying to search for something. Toshi watched him, puzzled, but he waited for him, “I think...we’re going to become really strong heroes together.”

“What! Really? Wait, did you see our future--?” Before he could ask anything else, Nighteye reached over to grab his bangs and held them up above his face to stick them out like rabbit ears. Toshi looked up at his bangs surprised before returning his attention to Nighteye. “You know, you’re a strange kid.”

“You were always smiling,” Nighteye laughed, “And your hair was up like this.”

“Don’t tell me anything else! I’ll find out!” Toshi covered his ears, “Wait, no, just one more thing. What’s my hero name?”

“Uh, I don’t know...” He shrugged helplessly, “I didn’t hear it. Sorry.”

“Come on, don’t leave me hanging! What do you think it would be then, partner?” Toshi laughed and Nighteye stared at him for a few moments while he looked him over.

“Sunflower Hair”

“What? No! That doesn't sound cool at all!” Toshi whined, grabbing Nighteye’s wrists gently which made him let go of his bangs.

“Sir Sunflower Hair.” Nighteye said without missing a beat.

Toshi stared at him, pretending to be offended while Nighteye stared right back. It was obvious he was holding back the urge to laugh. In the end, they both caved and burst out laughing.

“Mirai,” Nighteye finally said between laughs, “My name is Mirai Sasaki.”

It wasn’t long after that Mirai was able to be reunited with his family. His mother had come the moment she found out where he was. For a brief moment when Toshi saw her green hair he thought it was his own mother. That is, until Mirai left his side, calling out for his mother and the two embrace tightly. Toshi stood there and smiled despite the ache in his heart. He should be happy for his friend. What else would he feel? He thought as his vision began to blur. He quickly wiped his eyes and smiled when Mirai turned back to look at him.

He was happy.

Present

Toshinori woke up with one of the bobble heads sticking into his side. He let out a soft groan as he sat up and tried to work the kinks out of his back and neck. He was vaguely aware that his morning alarm was screaming somewhere. He was too tired to make out any of the words and slowly got up to search for his phone. It was too early to deal with this right now. He just wanted to get some proper sleep, but he also knew the damn thing wouldn’t turn off until he put it on snooze.

“Why did I think recording my voice screaming would be a good alarm,” Toshinori muttered, rubbing his eye as he picked up his phone near the far wall. He grimaced when he noticed a large crack on the screen. He remembered throwing it for some reason, but his head was too groggy to remember clearly.

“YOU’RE GOING TO BE LATE FOR CLASS!”

The alarm went off again, each word suddenly becoming crystal clear.

“I don’t go to school anymore...” Toshinori glared at the phone and shut off the alarm before he noticed the time. Wait... “I’M THE TEACHER.”

It didn’t hit Toshinori until he was in the middle of a quick shower that school was closed for the day because of the attack. He wasn’t sure whether he should feel relieved or annoyed. Maybe both. Regardless, he made a note to himself to change his damn alarm to something that won’t give him a heart attack. While he was getting dressed, Toshinori noticed his phone was nearly dead and plugged it in to charge. Just as he was about to set it down, he noticed some notifications.

1 Missed Call -- Sir Nighteye

1 New Voicemail -- Sir Nighteye

Toshinori froze as it all came rushing back to him. Last night was real. He actually did that and Mirai called him back. His heart began to pound as he felt a knot form in his throat. He started to mutter, trying to reason why Mirai would call him back. Anything he thought of made him feel too hopeful, so he shoved those feelings aside. Should he listen to it? What would it matter if he did? The voicemail was only about a minute long, what could he say in a minute? He should just delete it. Before he knew it, he’d press it and the message began play.

“Toshinori...”

There was a beat of silence and he wasn’t sure if Mirai would say anything else.

“I assume by your panicked squawk that this call was a mistake.”

The Night Before

Mirai’s eyes lingered over the reports scattered across his desk of each individual involved in the attack on UA. The news report of the event played again on the background. He’d already studied it over and over, but there was little more information he could pull from it.

“Despite the massive attack, there was only one student who’d been badly injured, but expected to make a full recovery.”

“I suppose that was you, troublemaker.” Mirai glanced at the TV for a moment before his gaze dropped to a photo of Izuku Midoriya that sat on his desk.

“Two teachers were hospitalized, having taken the brunt of the attack. We’ve been informed they are in recovery.”

The News Reporter continued.

“We were unable to get a word with All Might, but his people ensure us he is recovering well.”

“Reckless. Both of you.”  Mirai sighed, shutting off the TV and removed his glasses, pinching the bridge of his nose to relieve the tension.

Being on this side of the camera these past years made difficult to see just how much was kept from the spotlight in order to keep the public at ease. He needed to thank Nedzu the next time he spoke to him that he called to tell him anything at all. Toshinori certainly wouldn’t do it himself.

He set back Midoriya’s photo back with his file and closed his eyes. He let the noise from the TV become background noise when his phone began to ring. Despite the odd hour, he decided to answer it.

“Sir Nighteye speaking.” He hoped his voice didn’t sound as drained as he felt. He hadn’t even bothered to look who’d been calling. He gave whoever it was on the other end of the line a moment to answer before he realized no one was responding. “Hello? Is anyone there? Are you alright--?”

Mirai was surprised when he heard a panicked cry, followed by a loud thud before the the call seemingly cut off. Perhaps it was because he was on edge and exhausted that he tried to call back. When he got no answer, he decided to just let it go, but just as he was about to hang up, the voicemail message began to play.

"You've reached Toshinori Yagi, sorry I missed your call blah blah blah. Please leave your message after the beep, um, beeeeepppp."

Mirai tensed and nearly dropped the phone when he heard his voice. Under different circumstances he would have laughed at Toshinori’s voicemail message. One of the reasons he had enjoyed being around him was his sense of humor. Toshinori had gotten him to smile since the day they met. Even seeing him joke on interviews these past few years still managed to get a chuckle out of him despite everything.

Mirai took a deep breath and realized the voicemail was still recording. Given how they left things off when they’d last spoken, he didn’t expect Toshinori to call again.

“Toshinori...” Mirai spoke barely above a whisper. Perhaps the reason Toshinori called was that something happened? Could it be urgent? He paused and considered what he knew, then he let out a deep sigh.

No...

“I assume by your panicked squawk that this call was a mistake.”

He should just hang up. It was obviously a mistake. What else could he do? They made their decision a long time ago. There wasn’t anything they could do to change it. Still, Mirai closed his eyes and let himself believe Toshinori was listening on the other end of the line.

“It’s been over six years, and you still haven’t changed your voicemail message.” He couldn’t stop a small smile from forming on his lips as he ran his fingers through his hair, mindful of the gold streaks. Toshinori certainly hadn’t changed a bit; he wondered if he could say the same for himself.

Hanging up would be easier than whatever this was.

“You made it another day...”

Tell him you’re glad he’s okay.

“Good night, Toshi...”

Mirai set the phone down, deciding he’d had enough of a headache for one night and tried to get some rest. Much to his dismay, he found it difficult to sleep that night, because of a certain messy haired man who had broken his heart.

“You’ve moved past this, Mirai.” He said to himself, even while he found himself standing in front of a mirror, already removing his shirt. “So, remind yourself why are you doing this?”

Mirai considered it a small blessing that his soulmark was somewhere he couldn’t see it easily. It’s kept it out of sight and out of mind for the most part these past years. Still, there were times when he felt weak and needed to see it for himself.

He took a deep breath and paused; he couldn’t even remember the last time he looked at it. Finally, he glanced back behind him and his breath hitched. He reached back as far as he could to brush his fingers along the delicate golden petals and green curving stems resting along his left shoulder blade.

Mirai would never forget the jolt he felt when his mark had formed at Toshi’s touch. He’d been so surprised that precisely at that moment, his quirk had activated when he looked into those big blue eyes. There was very little he could remember from the vision he saw that day.  Only that he’d seen two heroes standing side by side. It was like a dream, he could not make out their faces, but something in him told him it was them.

“Toshi!” Mirai yelled, running back to the entrance of the orphanage. He couldn’t leave, not yet, “We’ll meet again, in the future as heroes.”

“I look forward to it, partner.” Toshi raised his arm up to him with a grin on his face. Mirai looks at him surprised for a moment, but raised his arm to his and returned the smile.

They parted ways that day without realizing their soulmarks had formed. Mirai’s mark had been nothing more than a flower bud. For years it remained like that and he hadn’t been entirely sure what he’d been looking at. Not until it started to bloom, when fate finally decided to have their paths cross again years later.

“You're him! The boy with night eyes!” Before Mirai knew it, Toshnori had picked him up and twirled him around in a hug, laughing in pure delight.

“Wait... No, Sunflower Hair??”

“That’s Sir Sunflower Hair to you!”

All those years ago, two lost souls had found each other in the darkness, giving each other hope and a reason to smile. Then to reunite once more and their connection to deepen and grow into something more.

For a long time, Mirai thought they’d be inseparable, remaining by each other's side despite the obstacles or hardships. He grimaced, remembering that fateful day in the hospital. Tubes and machinery all hooked up to that gaping hole in Toshinori’s stomach.

Fear overwhelmed Mirai, that the man he loved wouldn’t make it. He reached out to him, needing to see it for himself. He shouldn’t have, it was a mistake. If he hadn’t seen it, would things have gone differently then in that hallway?

“I understand your theory on the Symbol. But...Look...You can’t smile at all, can you?” Mirai gripped his sleeve tightly, afraid if he let go Toshinori would collapse then and there.

It pained Mirai to see Toshinori’s lip tremble, he couldn’t even force himself to smile.

Why was he doing this to himself? Why won’t he listen to reason.

“If you continue like this, I will not support you. I can’t. I don’t want to!” Mirai’s grip loosened as Toshinori stepped out of his grasp. He was going where he couldn’t follow and Mirai couldn’t keep watching him destroy himself.

“Did you see it?” Black, accusing eyes stared back at him. “Didn’t I tell you that you didn’t have to use your Foresight on me?”

“Even if you retire, the next number one will appear!” Mirai wanted to look away ashamed, but he couldn’t, not after what he knew now. There was no going back now, after what he saw, but there must be something they could still do.  “Things might get rough for a while, but we might be able to avoid that!”

Please. Anything.

“In that short time...how many people will have to be afraid?” Toshinori shot back and it was his turn to look away, “Besides, your Foresight has never been wrong, has it?”

“There has just been no precedent!” It was just a theory, based on what Mirai knew of his quirk. He couldn’t just accept it as fact that there was absolutely nothing he could do. “I will change the future!”

But Toshinori kept moving forward.

“At this rate, it’ll all go according to my Foresight! That can’t happen!”

Another step further.

“I...I’m here because I want to help you!”

Why was it so hard for Toshinori to see that?

“For the sake of the world... I shouldn’t be here, Mirai,” Was all he could say in return.

“Toshinori!”

Stop. Please stop.

Mirai clenched his fist, shaking. “If you go on like this you’ll fight a villian and meet a death...too gruesome to describe!”

The thought of seeing Toshinori dead on the ground, in a pool of his own blood scared Mirai. However, seeing Toshinori continue to push and destroy himself, even with the knowledge of his fate, absolutely terrified him. It was as if Toshinori had no desire to fight for himself, but Mirai did.

And so, with each hurtful word, each time he was pushed away, and every step Toshinori took pulled a petal off Mirai’s soulmark. Mirai couldn’t bear to lose him, even if it meant he had to walk out of his life, as long as Toshinori lived it didn’t matter. While the mark remained, pieces of him were being taken from him, damaged, irreparable. The petals on his back scattered to match that, all along his back as if being blown by the wind.

Even now, all these years later, it hurt Mirai to think about how much he still missed Toshinori; but their final words cut through him like a knife in his back. And if he took out that blade, he felt he’d bleed out.

Mirai closed his eyes, unable to bare looking at the mark a moment longer. After what Toshinori had said to him, it should have faded and yet...It was damaged, but it was still here. The only logical conclusion he could come to only made his heart ache more. A hopeful part of him wondered after everything, had Toshinori’s mark not been destroyed, would it have faded?

Present

“Good night, Toshi...”

Toshinori was motionless, curled around himself as the voicemail ended. He clutched his phone, while he gripped his scar tightly. His heart was beating like it was going to explode. He felt numb, but at the same time everything ached.

“YOU’RE REALLY GOING TO BE LATE NOW IF YOU DON’T HURRY! HURRY! HURRY!!”

Another alarm he forgot to turn off echoed in the room. He turned it off without a word and waited for the whirlwind of emotions to pass, but felt overwhelmed it was sending everything crashing back. He found his thoughts returning to that fateful day six years ago.

Anger and hatred consumed Toshinori’s mind as those around prepared for the raid. Anyone he would walk past would quickly jump out of the way, as if afraid to be trampled on, but Toshinori kept moving forward. This was finally it, he’d finally tracked down the man that had taken his master, his family and his life from him. He was finally going to pay for what he’d done.

To his surprise, a hand suddenly grabbed his wrist and he was dragged down another hall before he could even think to protest. Mirai made no attempt to explain himself until they were finally alone.

“Come back alive.” He whispered, cupping his face between his hands.

Toshinori felt his anger drain out of him for the moment and his expression softened. He rested his hands over Mirai’s and leaned his head against his. He would allow himself this quiet moment before the storm, if anything, for Mirai’s sake. They’d been through so much, hours of research, investigating, everything leading to this moment, together.

“I will return to your side, right where I belong.”

The worry didn’t leave Mirai’s eyes, but for now, his words seemed to be enough. Without warning, Mirai grabbed Toshinori’s collar and pulled him down to his level, filling the space between them. Toshinori’s arms hung out at his sides, unsure what to do as Mirai captured his mouth with his and wrapped his arms around his neck.

Toshinori watched him for a moment, taken aback that Mirai was shaking and the worried look on his face remained. No, that wouldn’t do. A small yelp escaped Mirai as Toshinori picked him off his feet, resting a hand on his back and another at his hip and he parted his lips to deepen their kiss.

Neither of them knew what the outcome of this battle would be and Toshinori wasn’t about to let Mirai carry that burden if he were to look and see something they were unable to prevent. But right now wasn’t the time to think about that. Right now, in this moment, as far as they were concerned, there was no one else in the world but them.

They were breathless when they finally pulled away and rested their heads against the other. Toshinori breathed heavily and nuzzles his nose against Mirai’s and the gesture was returned wordlessly. In their silence, he focused on the taste of mint that still lingered in his mouth from Mirai. He couldn’t help but cracked a small smile.

Mirai would always lecture how important it was to have fresh breath. They needed to be professional after all, especially how they were always held at a high standard. As a result, their kisses would always have a coolness to it with a hint of mint.

It was all Toshinori could think of to keep himself sane the moment pain exploded through his side and the taste of bitter iron overwhelmed him as his mouth filled with his own blood. Breathing felt like a thousand knives stabbing into his chest and he nearly blacked out from the pain. It was like nothing he’d ever experienced.

Was...he dying?

His vision clouded, but he forced himself to stay conscious as he looked up to meet AFO’s eyes. The man watched him as a predator would look upon their prey they’d been toying with, but had finally gotten bored with. AFO dug his clawed hands deeper into Toshinori’s side and he screamed, only to choke on his own blood.

What happened next, Toshinori couldn’t explain. All he could remember were fragments, but even then he couldn’t truly understand what had lead to him kneeling on the ground in front of something that hardly looked human and more like a pile of raw meat. There was so much blood, it pooled around them.

His blood, their blood.

Mirai was at his side in an instant, slipping in is haste, but seemed unphased as he got back up and cupped his face in his hands. Shaking, terrified, but alive. Mirai was trying to tell him something, but Toshinori could no longer hear him. He couldn’t hear anything, he couldn’t move, he couldn’t feel

anything

as everything slipped away into nothingness.

His first memory after he awoke in the hospital feeling of someone’s hand around his own. He couldn’t open his eyes at first, but his first instinct was to tighten his grip. It took a few tries, but when he finally got his hand to move.

“Toshinori,” Mirai breathed out as if he’d been holding his breath until this very moment. He pressed his hand to his lips as quiet sobs filled the room. Toshinori let out a pained breath, wanting nothing more than to be able to comfort his beloved, but all he could do was squeeze his hand.

As the days passed and the medication wore off, Toshinori felt like death. He was in and out of it for the beginning of it. Every time he awoke, there were fewer cables connected to his to his stomach. When his memory began to clear, he noticed there was something off about Mirai.

At first, he wasn’t sure what it was. It was as if it'd become difficult to read him. There were so many times Toshinori wanted to ask what was wrong, but couldn’t find the right words. Though, one day, Mirai seemed to understand Toshinori’s frustrations before he could voice them, but ended the discussion by saying he was fine. Toshinori didn’t believe him.

During one of his visits, Mirai had stepped out for a moment to speak with Recovery Girl. Through his own boredom, Toshinori made a mistake of turning on the news. What he saw were reports after reports of unrest, attacks and so many asking where was the symbol of peace.

Where was he?

“I understand the importance of the Symbol, but look at yourself. You can’t even smile!” Mirai grimaced as he kept Toshinori on his feet after finding him in the middle of the hall trying to leave. “If you continue like this, I will not support you. I can’t. I don’t want to!”

Toshinori gritted his teeth at the ache he felt in his heart at his words.

Can’t? Don’t want to?

What was scaring him this badly?

“Did you see it?” Toshinori gasped, the realization sat heavily in what remained of his stomach. It all clicked together now, why Mirai had become so distant, so quiet. What else could it have been? Mirai didn’t even need to say it and instead chose to insist he should retire; as if that could prevent what he’d seen with his own eyes.

The pain in Toshinori’s side worsened, the only thing he could cling to keep himself from blacking out was Mirai’s voice.

“I’m here because I want to help you, Toshinori!”

Then stay by my side.

Toshinori gritted his teeth and took another step forward.

“Toshinori!” He couldn’t bare to look back at Mirai or he felt he’d become undone, “If you go on like this you’ll fight a villian and meet a death...too gruesome to describe!”

So this is his fate then.

“If that’s to be my future. I will keep running forward to the finish line.” He breathed out painfully, “And save as many as I can before…”

“You can’t save everyone!” Mirai pleaded, gripping his sleeve tightly, “Please, don’t go.”

“You can’t save me, Mirai, no one can now…And you can’t stop me from going.” Toshinori knew he hit a nerve when Mirai’s grip lessened.

His words had come out with more venom than he intended, but he meant every word. He tried to take another step, but pain shot through his injury and Mirai was by his side before Toshinori could hit the ground. All Toshinori could do was let out a ragged breath and wait for the pain to subside as he leaned into Mirai.

“Please, I don’t understand…” Mirai begged, keeping him on his feet while he cupped his cheek with a hand, searching his eyes, “You wish to fight to save everyone, why can’t you do the same for yourself?”

“It would be selfish of me to put myself before others,” Toshi closed his eyes, resting a hand over his.

“Then be selfish, Toshinori!” His voice was barely above a whisper.

“I...can’t do that anymore, Mirai.” He finally opened his eyes and slowly pulled Mirai’s hand from his cheek.

Confusion flickered in Mirai’s eyes as Toshinori let go of his hand and stepped away, distancing himself from him. He leaned back against the wall to support himself and rested a hand against his stomach. “Perhaps, it was a sign that my mark was destroyed. To mark an end to our--”

“Don’t you dare finish that sentence,” Realization was sinking in and Mirai was shaking now. Tears pricked at the corners of his eyes, but he refused to let them fall.

“If things remain as they are, with our ideals so different, we can no longer continue forward...together.” Toshinori closed his eyes.

“Stop,” Mirai clenched his fists, “You are going somewhere I can’t follow.”

“If you want to stay, then stay.” Toshinori said quietly, “If you want to go, then--"

“I’ll go.”

Toshinori’s eyes widened and he immediately regretted his words when he saw the tears were streaming down Mirai face. But what unsettled him most the the vacant look in his eyes that bore into his soul.

No, this isn’t what he wanted.

“I will keep fighting for the life you wish to give up so easily.” Mirai continued, his voice almost emotionless, it scared him. “Goodbye, Toshinori.”

The moment Mirai was gone and Toshinori collapsed, his physical and emotional pain had become too much for him to bear. When he finally awoke, he was in a daze and instinctively reach for a hand that was no longer there to take his. He closed his fist slowly, gripping the bed sheets tightly.

“You’re a stubborn fool.” Torino called out when he noticed he’d finally woken up.

Toshinori said nothing and didn’t have the strength anymore to keep the tears from falling. Torino couldn’t find it in himself to say anything else and moved to sit beside the boy he’d taken in as his own. Toshinori tensed when Torino rested a hand on his head and he looked up at him surprised with tear filled eyes.

“That’s it, let yourself grieve for once, Toshinori.” Torino sighed softly, running his fingers lightly through his hair. “If you keep trying to smile all the time that smile will only become a mask you hide behind.”

Toshinori said nothing and only clung onto him tightly. Torino sighed weakly and returned the embrace. Tears pricked at the edge of his eyes. It was difficult to see such a ray of hope lose so much and hit rock bottom.

After that day, neither Toshinori or Mirai had attempted to contact one another. Days slowly turned to months, then eventually years. There were times where Toshinori had moments of weakness, where he wanted to call, just to hear his voice again, but fell short.

And now that he’d finally crossed the barrier, even by mistake, he had no idea what to do. Toshinori couldn’t help but wonder what any of what Mirai said in the voicemail meant. It could have been nothing, but nothing would have been not bothering to call back and leave a message at all. He gripped his side tighter before he replayed the voicemail, if only to hear his voice.

I’m pathetic.

Toshinori thought bitterly. Why couldn’t he just let him go? He was the one to push him away, he had no one but himself to blame. Mirai deserved happiness and love he could no longer give him. After how things were left off between them, Toshinori felt couldn’t be that person for him, not anymore. Now, all Toshinori could hope for was Midoriya’s story would end happier than his.

“I’m sorry...”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Shouto noticed the strange mark on his left arm after the first day of class. At first it’d been a small diamond shape, then a web pattern began to branch out as the days passed. He didn’t know what to make of it, but what he did know was his father would not be pleased to see a blemish on his “investment”. Shouto did not want to deal with that fallout, so he kept it covered for the time being.Shouto would have been more concerned about the mark, but at this point it was the least of his problems. He’d been too busy since classes began to do anything about it. Instead, all he focused on was his studies and training. Right now, were too many things for him to worry about.“Enough.” Endeavor called. “You have 10 minutes to compose yourself and rehydrate.”Shouto took deep breaths and nodded. He felt worn out and his father was testing him much harder in this training session. He stole a glance at Endeavor when he wasn’t looking and narrowed his eyes when he noticed he hadn’t broken a sweat.Shouto picked up his water bottle and glanced at the large tree at the end of their courtyard. The shade looked tempting, but he knew he couldn’t show any weakness in front of his father, even if they were taking a short break. They’d been going through drills most of the morning, after he had reported the events of the USJ attack the day prior.“You survived the attack relatively unharmed, but that does not mean you did not make crucial mistakes.” Endeavor narrowed his eyes. “You were arrogant to believe you could subdue all your targets with your ice alone. You need to use the full extent of your abilities.”“I had it under control.” Shouto shot back bitterly.“Yet, you said the villain called Nomu broke free from your grasp.” Endeavor retorted and Shouto winced. “You let your guard down and could not react timely when Nomu charged one of your classmates. He would have died had All Might not been there to intervene.” His voice was venomous when he spoke All Might’s name.    You weren’t there. I did everything I could. Shouto wanted to speak up, but held his tongue. This would end sooner the less he argued. Shouto knew Endeavor didn’t care for Bakugou’s safety. A fellow student almost died because he couldn’t react fast enough.“Shouto, you must remain observant and not let unexpected changes on the battlefield slow your reaction time. Nothing will ever go as you expect it to.” Endeavor crossed his arms and watched him sternly. “Keep moving and stay flexible. Do not allow fear to make you hesitate. You will not always have someone there to save you, or to make up for your mistakes.”Shouto downed the rest of his drink, “What’s next?”“We will resume your training,” Endeavor gruffed. “Use your quirk. We will battle within courtyard, without causing damage to the house. You need to learn to control over your quirk while minimizing an opponent's damage to the area.”Shouto looked across the courtyard—they had a good amount of space to work with—but it was limited. A stray attack could either burn or freeze sections of the house. Of course his father wanted to give him higher stakes.“Let us begin.” Endeavor smirked.…Fuyumi had been walking down the hall when she noticed her father and brother in the middle of another training session. As far as she knew, the two had been at it all day. Fire and ice flew in all directions, but never close enough reach the house. Shouto remained on the move, skating across the courtyard with his ice while their father continued to send bursts of fire to knock him off his feet.It was a mesmerizing to watch. Fuyumi never had the same intensive training as her brothers, but it didn’t mean she didn’t know how to use her quirk. There was a time, years ago, where her mother had helped her train her. Meanwhile, Shouto’s training was on a completely different level. Fuyumi was well aware of how hard Endeavor pushed him. She curled her hands into fists and hoped Shouto could hold out a little longer.Fuyumi continued walking and took a notepad from her pocket and went through a shopping list. She’d been in the middle of putting on her coat when she heard Endeavor’s voice boom from the courtyard, startling her. She jumped again when his voice grew louder, followed by Shouto’s voice.She looked down the hall and began to make her way towards them when Shouto suddenly ran into her. Shouto looked distraught and scared, clutching his right arm. The sleeve of his t-shirt had been burned off.“Shouto!” Endeavor’s voice echoed throughout the house.Fuyumi winced and knew she had to do something.“Dad, Shouto and I are going shopping, okay bye!” Fuyumi called out as she grabbed Shouto’s coat from the closet and his shoes before pushing him quickly towards the door.Endeavor and Fuyumi made eye contact just as she was closing the door. She felt very small under his gaze, but she shut the door and didn’t look back. Shouto said nothing as she led them to the car. Neither could relax until they were outside the neighborhood. Fuyumi kept stealing worried glances at Shouto while she drove, waiting for him to talk to her.Fuyumi tightened her grip on the steering wheel and shook her head. She’d planned to go to their usual grocery store down the street, but decided to head to another a little more out of the ways. Whenever their father got like this, it was best for Shouto to get some space.“Do you want to talk about it?” Fuyumi finally asked once they parked.“I don’t even know what happened…,” Shouto spoke softly, staring at his coat and shoes that were still on his lap. “He just got so angry…”Fuyumi tentatively reached out to rest her hand over his. Shouto usually got angry or distant after dealing with their father. It was rare to see him withdraw, at least like this, like he was lost and a little scared. The only time Fuyumi ever saw him like this was after the incident with their mother. It hurt. “Did he hurt you?” Fuyumi tried again when she noticed him holding his arm.“I...No…We were sparring, I wasn’t fast enough to dodge and it burned my shirt…” Shouto closed his eyes. “He saw it...I knew he’d get angry...”“What are you talking about?” Fuyumi asked gently.Shouto tensed and held his arm tighter, much to her surprise. “When he saw it, he grabbed my arm so tight it scared me...I don’t understand why he got so angry…It was different than...”Fuyumi looked at him sadly and tightened her grip around his hand. Shouto took a deep breath and slowly turned to show her the mark on his arm. She tilted her head to take a closer look before she gasped. Shouto flinched and turned away, unsure how she would react next.“I’m sorry, did I startle you? It’s just,” Fuyumi couldn’t stop herself from grinning ear to ear. “Can I please give you a hug?”“What..?” Shouto replied tentatively, unsure what just happened. “Uh...sure?”“Shouto, I can’t believe it! I’m so happy for you!” Fuyumi squealed once she could embrace him. “My baby brother has a soulmark!”Shouto sat there, dumbfounded while Fuyumi started to dote him. This was definitely not the reaction he was expecting. Then again, it was Fuyumi after all.“Soul...mark?” Shouto asked, his voice muffled against her shoulder.“Oh, I’m sorry, Shouto! You must be so confused. A soulmark only appears when you meet your soulmate.” Fuyumi explained as she pulled away and she couldn’t stop smiling. She felt happy for him. Although, she didn’t blame him for not knowing what it was. “It’s like the red strings of fate, if that helps. How long ago did you notice you had it?”“I noticed it after the first day of school, but it was smaller,” Shouto replied honestly, his mind still reeling.“That must mean your soulmate is someone from your class then,” Fuyumi suggested as she took another look. “These marks usually represents your soulmate’s personality or their quirk. Let’s see...It sort of looks a little like branches inside a diamond, maybe it could be electricity trapped inside? Does that help you think of anyone?” Kaminari? Shouto’s thoughts immediately went to that dumb look on Kaminari’s face whenever he’d overused his quirk. No, it can’t be him. “No, I don’t think so…” Shouto admitted. Something about him didn’t feel right. “I don’t talk to my classmates that much...”“Well, I’m sure you’ll find out who it is soon.” Fuyumi squeezed his hand gently. “Do you want to come inside with me to shop, or do you want some time to yourself? I know you have a lot to think about.”“I think some fresh air would be nice,” Shouto sighed, draping his coat over his shoulders.“I won’t be long. I’m sure you’ll find out.” Fuyumi gave him a fond smile while Shouto touched his arm tenderly. “Don’t let dad get to you. This is something to be happy about.”“Do you have one?” Shouto couldn’t help but ask.“No!” Fuyumi scoffed and suddenly got very red. She looked away and tapped her fingers nervously. “I mean, not yet at least. I’m still hoping. Anyway, just call if you need me.”She left the car with a huff and marched toward the store without another word. Shouto watched her go before he stepped out of the car and let out a deep breath. The air was crisp; it was colder than it should have been for spring, but he didn’t mind. He made his way to a bench not too far from where they parked and sat down. Don’t let dad get to you. This is something to be happy about. Shouto considered his sister’s words and figured she was right. If anything, this was one thing their father couldn’t control in his life. It explained why he got so angry when he saw it and demanded to know who it was. At least that was starting to make sense now.Shouto rested a hand over his arm again; something didn’t feel quite right. He felt a weight in his chest, like he was lost and longing for something.He needed to find his soulmate.The very thought terrified and excited him all at once. What were they like? Could it really be someone from Class 1A? Were they looking for him right now? Did they feel as terrified and excited as he did?It was strange to think he felt something so strongly over someone he’d never met. He didn’t even know they existed until a few minutes ago. Still, whoever it was, his father would be the last person he wanted finding out. That’s for sure. That only left the question, who was his soulmate?“Hey, Todoroki!” A voice called out, startling him. Shouto looked up and was met with an all too familiar head of messy green curls. “Funny running into you here. Uh, do you live around here?”“Midoriya…” Shouto said softly, feeling out of sorts. “Oh, no I don’t…”“Um, you alright?” Midoriya looked at him concerned.“I’m fine,” Shouto replied, a little surprised to have run into him.“Is this a friend from school, Izuku?” A short plump woman who resembled Midoriya quite a bit approached them. She looked between the two before offering Shouto a warm smile. “Hello, I’m Inko, Izuku’s mother. You’re not here by yourself, are you?”“No, I’m here with my sister. I just needed some air...I’ve...have a lot on my mind,” Shouto explained while Midoriya and Inko exchanged worried looks.“Do you need any company?” Midoriya offered while he absently rested a hand over his bandaged hand. “I know yesterday was pretty intense.”“Sure.” Shouto said, surprised how quickly he accepted the offer.“Okay, um, I’ll catch up in a bit, mom.” Midoriya looked to his mother before taking a seat beside Todoroki.“Don’t worry about it, sweetheart.” Inko waved him off. “Don’t stay out here too long you two, or you’ll catch a cold.”Shouto found Inko’s words amusingly ironic as Midoriya waved her goodbye. He glanced at Midoriya and wondered why he agreed to his company. He didn’t really have the energy to be around anyone, much less someone he hardly knew. It was like something in the back of his head wanted him to say yes.Still, it’d be a lie to say he wasn’t curious about Midoriya and wished to get to know him. Ever since he first saw Midoriya he’d been...surprised by him. On the first day of class, their classmates had chatted nonstop about the student who had taken down the colossal robot during the entrance exam.Shouto’s breath had escaped him the moment he saw Midoriya and all he could do was stare. He was not what Shouto had expected so he’d kept an eye on him. There was more to him than Shouto had originally thought and Midoriya continued proving that again and again with each challenge he faced. Perhaps this was his chance to get to know him better.“Soooo…” Midoriya looked back at Shouto before he noticed his breath fogging in the cold air. “Wow, I know mom was teasing about catching a cold, but it’s pretty chilly...”Shouto watched Midoriya shiver and allowed his quirk to warm the air around them. The air between them became pleasantly warm, surprising Midoriya.“Wow, that’s amazing, Todoroki!” Midoriya closed his eyes and sighed contently.“My quirk helps regulate my temperature, so the cold and heat don’t really affect me too much,” Shouto replied, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips.“So waaarrmmm...” Midoriya muttered and couldn’t help but lean in closer until their shoulders touched.Shouto flushed and stared at him in surprise. Midoriya didn’t seem to notice, but he looked comfortable and relaxed beside him. Shouto’s heart raced and his face went red the same time his left side heated up quickly. Midoriya’s eyes shot open when he realized what he was doing.“Sorry! Sorry!” Midoriya yelped and moved away quickly while Shouto tried to calm down.The two sat there awkwardly, unsure what to say. Midoriya was petrified, to say the least. The warmth was just so inviting, he wasn’t sure what happened, he just wanted to get closer. Midoriya covered his face with his arms, knowing he must have annoyed Todoroki.Meanwhile, Shouto wasn’t annoyed. Caught off guard was more accurate. Right? How did Midoriya have this affect on him? Everything Midoriya did ended up surprising Shouto, and he wasn’t sure what to make of it. Did it mean he was unpredictable? Should he be worried?Shouto glanced at Midoriya,who looked mortified, hiding behind his arms before Shouto looked away in frustration. He wanted to know Midoriya better. That’s why he wanted his company, right? This wasn’t going well. Why was dealing with people so difficult?While Shouto tried to sort his thoughts, he felt something brush against his leg. He looked down and noticed a small orange and white cat nuzzling his left leg. He reached down slowly to pet the cat, not wanting to scare it. The cat welcomed his affection and pressed its face into his hand. Shouto smiled fondly, finding it easier to relax. He always liked when cats did that.“Hey, I’ve been wondering where you’ve been.” Midoriya smiled and kneeled down to pet the cat.“Is this your cat?” Shouto couldn’t help but ask.“Huh? No, she used to live in the same apartment building as us, but she got left behind when the owners left. Sometimes we leave food out for her.” Midoriya explained before he pulled a bag of jerky from his pocket. “Hungry?” The cat immediately perked with interest and Midoriya offered her a piece.“You carry that around with you all the time?” Shouto raised an eyebrow.“Protein.” Midoriya nibbled on a piece before he offered some to him. “Want one?”“I’m good.” Shouto declined.“If you say so. More for us.” Midoriya shrugged as he offered the piece to the cat who was more than eager to take it. “I’m surprised cats don’t follow you home. You’re a practically a walking heater.”“They sometimes do when it’s really cold,” Shouto admitted, starting to relax.“I’ve kinda always wanted a pet. I don’t think I’d mind if she followed me home. I might be able to convince my mom too. Just look at her!” Midoriya grinned, holding up the cat while it purred and stuck its tongue out.“Quite the charmer, wouldn’t you say?” Shouto looked away and chuckled.“Oh, um, you know, she looks kinda like you, Todoroki. It’s half and half just like you.” Midoriya pointed out half the cat’s face was orange while the other half was white. “So...that makes you charming too?”Midoriya felt the heat rise around them almost instantly as Shouto stared at him. The cat hopped over to Shouto and began to purr very loudly as it curled onto his lap.“I’m sorry! I keep startling you!” Midoriya buried his face in his hands.“No, uh, it’s fine, really,” Shouto tried to reassure him as he lowered the heat. “It’s...Been a strange day for me...My quirk tends to be sensitive to my emotions. I’ve had a lot on my mind and have just gotten caught off guard a lot today…” Shouto sighed as he ran his fingers through the cat’s fur gently to calm himself down.“Huh, interesting.” Midoriya peered at him curiously. “A lot of quirks tend to get amplified by emotions or mental states. So I assume you keep a calm and cool—no pun intended—demeanor to keep your quirk in check?”“More or less,” Shouto replied.“You have a really amazing quirk, Todoroki.” Midoriya added. “Even though I’ve only ever seen you use your ice.”“This is about all the good my fire half can do anyway…” Shouto smiled weakly. “Keeping warm and attracting cats...”“What do you mean?” Midoriya tilted his head, confused and moved back to sit beside him.“It’s...Painful for me to use my fire half. It’s not physical, like in your case,” Shouto added.“So it’s emotional?” Midoriya guessed.“And personal.” Shouto nodded before staring up at the sky. “I’ve gone through a lot to get to where I am. It’s been a difficult path and not all the decisions were mine to make. I refuse to use something that caused me so much pain and anger.”Midoriya looked at him and was at a bit of a loss. He didn’t want to pry into whatever Todoroki was talking about if he didn’t want him to. This had been an odd conversation. It was the most the two of them have ever talked since school began, but in an odd way it felt like they’d known each other for a long time.“Tell me something, Midoriya,” Shouto asked quietly. “How can you deal with a quirk that causes you so much pain to use?”“Oh, well, I’m still trying to do what I can to control it and make it my own,” Midoriya admitted. “I have a goal that keeps me moving forward, something that’s going to make everything worth it in the end. That’s to become the greatest hero so I can put people at ease with just a smile,” he added, offering a smile of his own.“I see…” Shouto felt at a loss. Midoriya’s smile was timid, yet, there was something about it that made him feel like things were going to be okay. He wondered if Midoriya just had this kind of effect on people. “I believe we share similar goals.”“Really? Well, actually, I shouldn’t be surprised,” Midoriya said as he shook his head. It was a competitive dream to be the number one hero. “So, I guess that makes us rivals, huh?”“I suppose it does...” Shouto replied before he steeled himself. “I have one more question, if you don’t mind.”“Sure, what is it?” Midoriya asked, taking another bit of jerky.“Do you train with someone to help you with your quirk?” Shouto asked. It’d been something he’d been curious about since he first saw him use it. Midoriya’s quirk was powerful, but very unstable. Perhaps he’d been cautious to use it, given how badly it could hurt him.   “Yeah...I wanted to be a hero for so long, but I was practically a nobody until the day I met someone who gave me hope...” Midoriya stared at his bandaged arm and curled his hand into a fist. He let out a dry laugh and shook his head. “At first, he told me the same thing everyone else did: be realistic, aim for something that’s attainable. You can’t be a hero the way you are...but I took a leap forward, despite the odds and surprised everyone, even him.”“So, the odds have been against you since the beginning…” Shouto noted, stroking the cat’s head absently. “I take it you don’t regret it?”“It’s difficult, but no, I have no regrets,” Midoriya replied, looking up at the sky. “I’m grateful to have someone like my mentor in my life to guide me to my dream.”  “You must care for him a lot, I take it?”“Yeah. In a way, he’s a little bit like a dad to me,” Midoriya laughed sheepishly. “But I think I’d be too embarrassed to actually tell him.”Shouto couldn’t help but chuckle softly. “And why’s that?”“Just because!” Midoriya’s face went red and he quickly wrapped his arms around his face to hide. “I mean...He’s the closest thing I’ve had to a dad, I guess...It’s been just me and my mom really for a long time. My mom’s also been really supportive, even though this is all new to her too. I don’t want to let either of them down.”“I understand….It’s good to have someone like them in your life,” Shouto replied honestly. The love Midoriya felt for this mentor as well as his mother clear in his eyes.“Do you have someone like that, Todoroki?” Midoriya asked curiously. “Someone who encourages you and gives you strength?”“I do, my sister Fuyumi. She’s someone who’s always been there for me and understood me,” Shouto replied without hesitation. He may not have his parents by his side, but he always had Fuyumi. Though, maybe that wasn’t always entirely true. “I suppose I also have Natsuo.”“Who’s that?”“My older brother. He’s off at university,” Shouto explained.“Oh, I see. I didn’t know you had siblings,” Midoriya replied. “What are they like?”“Fuyumi’s soft spoken and a little nervous at times, but also kind and patient.” Shouto closed his eyes. “Natsuo has always been a bit of the opposite. Outgoing, cheerful, playful, always wanting to make sure you had a smile on your face. I miss him when he’s away, but we keep in touch.”“I’m a little jealous. I’ve never had siblings. Having some must be nice,” Midoriya replied warmly.Shouto couldn’t help but nod. It had its ups and downs, but he wouldn’t give them up for the world.“Do you have any other siblings or it is just them?”“I…” Shouto flinched, a sharp pain piercing his head as the images the courtyard covered in fire filled his mind. A boy, about his age with red hair and blue eyes, the same color as the flames stood in the middle of the chaos. The boy’s image flickered and disappeared and Endeavor took his spot. The same red hair and blue eyes, filled with so much anger.Shouto gripped his sleeve tightly, over his soulmark. He wasn’t fast enough to dodge his father’s attack. Shouto could still feel the heat of Endeavor’s flames as his sleeve caught on fire. Shouto was going to put it out with his ice, but the shock had slowed him down and Endeavor reacted faster. He’d put out the flames almost immediately and had a firm grip on his arm to check for burns when he noticed the mark.Shouto could see the moment Endeavor’s expression changed. His eyes had widened in shock, before quickly morphing to anger. He tightened and yanked him closer, demanding an explanation. Shouto was caught off guard by his reaction. So much so, it scared him. Something inside just told him to get away, to run. So he broke free, used his ice to create a barrier between them and ran without looking back.  “Hey, Todoroki, are you okay...?” Midoriya’s voice pulled him out of his thoughts, grounding him. “Are you hurt?”“I’m...I’m fine…” Shouto shook his head and took a deep breath. He glanced at him and noticed Midoriya staring at his arm.“You sure? You look pretty out of it…,” Midoriya replied, his hand reaching out, but not close enough to touch him.“I was just remembering something…unpleasant.” A small part of Shouto wanted to take his hand, to put Midoriya at ease so he wouldn’t be concerned. But he was fine, wasn’t he? “ I had another brother, but I haven’t seen him in...He’s long gone, no thanks to our father.”“Did...something happen?” Midoriya asked, lowering his hand.“I was too young to remember much, just that our father’s training drove him to the edge and he had enough.” Shouto tightened his grip on his arm and his anger flared, “There are times where I feel like I’m being pushed to that same edge…”The air around them grew colder as frost formed on Shouto’s right side. The cat suddenly whined in protest, seeming to snap Shouto out of it. He said nothing as he let his left side heat up again and he absently petted the cat once it got comfortable by his side again.“Todoroki,” Midoriya spoke up after a while, “When I saw you earlier...You looked very lonely.”“That’s one way to put it.” Shouto smiled grimly, rubbing the cat’s ear gently.“I didn’t know what you were going through, but I couldn’t find myself walking away.”“I’m glad you didn’t walk away...” Shouto muttered softly.Midoriya looked at him, surprised by his words.“Earlier, Fuyumi helped me deal with something I didn’t understand.” Shouto went on. “She wanted to make sure I was okay and really wanted to hug me, but she made sure to ask me first. It’s something she’s always done for me...I know it may seem small, but…When you asked me first if I wanted company...I...Thank you…I appreciate the gesture.”“Oh, I didn’t realize...Um, yeah, no problem.” Midoriya said a little fluttered. “You like personal space.”Shouto looked away, unsure if he said the right thing or explained himself how he wanted to. Before he could dwell on it, the cat meowed at him again for attention. Shouto let out a deep breath and rubbed the back of her ears.“You don’t seem to mind Shoko being close,” Midoriya laughed softly.“Shoko?” Shouto raised an eyebrow.“It’s a cute name,” Midoriya snickered and looked down at the cat. “I still stand by that she kinda looks like you. So I think Shoko fits her just fine.”“You’re something else, Midoriya,” Shouto rolled his eyes, shaking his head. “Cats are less complicated than people.”“Heh, you’re not wrong,” Midoriya chuckled softly.Midoriya reached behind the bench and picked up a piece of grass to play with the cat. Shoko perked up and watched as Midoriya swayed the piece of grass back and forth in front of her. She reached up, swatting for it when it got close and Shouto watched the two with amusement.“I think I’m going to head inside to see if Fuyumi needs any help,” Shouto spoke up as he stood up. “Thank you for being honest with me, Midoriya. I’m sorry if any of this was odd, or seemed out of the blue.”“Oh, sure! No problem,” Midoriya replied. “It was...actually really nice talking to you. This is probably the most I’ve heard you talk since we met.”Shouto glanced away and felt himself warm up again. Although, this time the heat wasn’t uncomfortable. If anything, it felt pleasant and it made him feel at ease. “Well, I wouldn’t mind talking again then…”“I wouldn’t mind either,” Midoriya replied before Shouto suddenly snapped his gaze back to him. “What is it?”“I just have this feeling…” Shouto spoke softly, “I can see you being someone who gives me strength as well. It isn’t difficult for you to inspire people.”Midoriya stared at Shouto for a moment as if processing what he’d just said. Then, his face went beet red and he buried his face in his hands. “I think you’re exaggerating a little…”“What? I’m being honest,” Shouto chuckled, much to Midoriya’s surprise.  Midoriya peeked out between his hands to look at Todoroki. The sun was starting to set, making everything around them glow a hazy orange. The light bounded off Todoroki’s white hair and seemed to make his red hair more fiery. It felt like heart was going to explode and he wasn’t completely sure why. Todoroki wasn’t what Midoriya had expected at all.“Well...if that’s the case, can I count on you to give me strength too?” Midoriya asked, offering his pinky to Todoroki to seal the deal.Shouto looked at him a little surprised by the gesture, especially since Midoriya was offering him his bandaged hand. Shouto wasn’t sure what to do at first. At the very least, he felt he could trust him, so why not? He hesitantly curled his pinky around Midoriya’s.  “Deal,” Shouto replied.Midoriya didn’t expect the quiet and serious boy who sat at the back of class to have this sort of effect on him. He wasn’t sure how to explain it, but being around Todoroki put him at ease. At the very least, Midoriya felt like he understood Todoroki a little better now.“So, is this our thing now?” Midoriya laughed while he looked at their intertwined pinkies.Shouto was about to answer when Shoko started meowing. They looked down to see she was pawing at his leg, wanting attention.“Now, what are we going to do about you?” Midoriya laughed, leaning down to pet her. “We’re heading inside. I guess I’ll see you at home.”Shoko nudged at Midoriya’s pocket for more food, only for his phone to fall out.“Hey, careful.” Midoriya picked up his phone before a sudden realization hit him and he looked up at Todoroki. “Oh! We should exchange numbers!”“Alright,” Shouto replied, digging into his pocket for his phone.“Do you mind?” Midoriya asked, holding up his phone to take a photo of the two of them together. Shouto humored him and leaned closer to get in the frame of the photo. Shoko started to meow again, so Midoriya picked her up for the photo. “Smile!”Shouto looked at Midoriya and Shoko and chuckled right as the photo was taken.“This is a good one,” Midoriya smiled, looking at the image fondly, “Okay, maybe one or two more. ”Midoriya took a few photos of Shoko and Todoroki for good measure. He scrolled through the photos and decided the first one was the best to set as Shouto’s contact image. Once he got Todoroki’s number, he texted him the photo. Then, they bidded Shoko farewell and headed inside.  Midoriya wasn’t too surprised when they found his mom with Fuyumi near the front of the store. The two looked about done with their shopping.  “Izuku, look who I found! I noticed the family resemblance.” Inko smiled cheerfully. “I couldn’t help but stop and say hi.”“I enjoyed the company,” Fuyumi chuckled and looked to Midoriya. “You must be Izuku. It’s nice to meet you.”“Nice to meet you too.” Midoriya replied.“It’s nice to see my little brother making some friends.” Fuyumi smiled and nudged Shouto playfully. Shouto scoffed, annoyed by her teasing, but that only made Fuyumi laugh. “Come on, why didn’t you tell me about him?”“This is the first time we’ve really talked,” Shouto said.“That’s explains it,” Inko chuckled softly. “Izuku has told me all about his new friends, but he hasn’t told me about you. Still, it’s a nice surprise he’s making friends so easily. Please look out for each other.”“Of course,” Shouto replied, glancing at Midoriya.“Uh, right!” Midoriya added.“Well then, the two of you are free to visit anytime you like,” Inko smiled.“Oh! Thank you very much,” Fuyumi replied. “I’m sure it’ll be fun.”“I’d like that…” Shouto added.Midoriya nodded, his eyes lingering on Todoroki’s smile. It’d be nice to spend more time with him too.“Well, we should get going, Shouto. I’m almost done shopping,”  Fuyumi replied, looking over her list once more. “But I need help looking for stuff to make zaru soba, mind helping me out?”“Oh, sure.” Shouto blinked, his mood lifting.“There’s that smile. I figured making your favorite for dinner would cheer you up.” Fuyumi said before she turned back to Inko and Midoriya. “It was nice running into you two, we’ll see you around.”“Don’t be strangers, you two,” Inko chuckled.“Of course not.” Fuyumi waved.“I’ll see you at school, Todoroki.” Midoriya added and Shouto nodded, the smile still on his face before he walked off with Fuyumi. Midoriya couldn’t help but watch him go.“What was that about?” Inko asked teasingly. “You kept smiling at him.”“What? Nothing! I have no idea what you’re talking about!” Midoriya said, flustered, grabbing his phone to distract himself.Midoriya found himself looking at the photo he took of himself, Todoroki and Shoko. His gaze lingered on the way Todoroki was caught looking at him mid-laugh in the photo. There was a fondness in his eyes that made Midoriya feel happy. Todoroki really did have a nice smile and he hoped to see it more.“What are you smiling at?” Inko teased.“IT’S NOTHING, JUST A CAT.” Midoriya panicked, nearly dropping his phone. Well, it wasn't a complete lie. Shoko was in the photo....While Shouto and Fuyumi finished up their shopping, Fuyumi started to notice a lot of couples out and about. “You know, that could be you with your soulmate one day.”Shouto followed her gaze, noticing most of the couples were just doing everyday things like shopping or walking around. Before today, he might have not thought much of it, now it made him feel something else...Hopeful?“You know, it’s nice to see you like this.” Fuyumi chuckled when Shouto looked a little hopeful. “I thought I’d lost you these days. I know dad’s training has been getting pretty rough.”“I’m fine now really,” Shout replied, looking away from the couples. “Learning about all this made me feel a little better actually. Thank you for being there for me, Fuyumi.”“You can thank me by letting me know who your soulmate is first once you find out.” Fuyumi quipped. “Whoever it is must have their heart on their sleeve to have this kind of affect on you.”“So...how do I figure out who it is?” Shouto asked, burying his hands in his pockets.“Well, your mark will become more intricate the more you interact with them,” Fuyumi explained, tapping her arm. “If you see it change, just try to remember who you’ve talked to.”“Sounds like a lot of work…” Shouto sighed, he didn’t want to admit how impatient he felt.“I’m sure you’ll know when you see them,” Fuyumi added as she walked with him to the checkout line.“How do you know that? You don’t even have one yet.”“Don’t be rude!” Fuyumi swatted him lightly. “It’s just a feeling I have.”  “If you say so.” Shouto snorted.Fuyumi gave him a look and without a word she reached up to ruffle his hair, blending his hair in the middle to pink. Shouto scoffed and tried to fix his hair while Fuyumi laugh. It wasn’t often the two of them got to spend time quiet time like this, it was nice. She just wished they could have been there under better circumstances.Once the groceries were packed into the car, it was clear they only had so much time before the got home. Shouto would still have to deal with their father when they get home. He couldn’t avoid him forever.“Hey, Shouto.” Fuyumi asked.“Hm?” He glanced over and noticed she had the key in the ignition, but hadn’t started the car yet.“Whatever dad tells you when we get home, remember, this is your life and your decision, not his.” Fuyumi replied, looking at him seriously. “I’ve been worried about you for a while now. Worried you’d end up focusing only on your hero career and neglect connecting with others, but I’m glad to see you seem to be doing just fine in your own way.”“I know and I’m sorry for making you worry…” Shouto looked away, a little ashamed.“It’s okay, really. It makes me happy seeing you interested in finding out about your soulmate and making friends.” Fuyumi sighed and tightened her grip on the wheel. “There’s one more thing you should know...”“What is it?”“There’s this idea that soulmarks form on people fate nudges to be together. As if it’s saying, there’s something special there and the two of you need to be together to see if you can find out what it is.” Fuyumi explained.“Okay…” Shouto replied, feeling a tension in the air. This wasn’t everything Fuyumi wanted to tell him.“You need to know, things...don’t always end happily. Some people aren’t meant for each other. It’s just...you need to be prepared for that…” Fuyumi continued, tapping the steering wheel anxiously. “You could fail or succeed. It’s really up to you and your soulmate’s actions. Just, remember, it’s your choice whether or not you take that step to find out.”  “You make it sound like it’s happened to you.” Shouto glanced at her worried.“Not me…” Fuyumi closed her eyes, tightened her grip on the wheel to keep her hands from shaking. Shouto was going to find out one way or another. It was better to prepare him before they got home. He had a right to know.  “Fuyumi?”“Mom and dad. They were soulmates.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“Mom and Dad. They were soulmates.”
The words echoed again and again in Shouto’s head since they’d left Fuyumi’s lips. Shouto couldn’t wrap his head around the idea that their parents could soulmates. He couldn’t remember his parents ever being particularly affectionate to each other, much less in love.“Hey, you okay Shouto?” Fuyumi glanced over at him while she drove. “You’ve been quiet for a while. I’m worried…”“What happens to the marks when soulmates don’t love each other?” Shouto suddenly asked.“Shouto…” Fuyumi said quietly, hesitating as if she wasn’t sure what to say.“What happens to the marks?” Shouto insisted, his voice stern and almost desperate. He couldn’t believe that his parents soulmarks formed out of love, it just wasn’t possible.  “They usually fade, or disappear all together…” Fuyumi replied with a sigh. “To be honest, I haven’t seen either of their marks in years…Things are...very complicated now.”“That’s an understatement.” Shouto added.“Shouto, I know it’s hard to believe, but some things weren’t always like they were now.”“Are you trying to tell me Mom and Dad loved each other?” Shouto snapped and Fuyumi winced, at a loss for words.“I don’t know how to explain it.” Fuyumi spoke up after a moment. “Things were different back then.”“Yeah, I wasn’t around...” Shouto muttered bitterly.“You know that’s not what I meant.” Fuyumi took a deep breath. “Things didn’t get worse because you were born...Look, I’m sorry for bringing this up all of sudden, but you needed to know…”Shouto looked at Fuyumi; she kept her eyes on the road and her hands were gripping the wheel too tightly. Talking about their parents was never an easy subject to get into, and Shouto was only making things more difficult.“I’m sorry, Fuyumi...It’s...Just a lot to process right now…” Shouto spoke quietly.  “I know, I don’t blame you for being upset…” Fuyumi took another deep breath. “I wanted you to know before we got home. In case Dad said something and blindsided you.”Shouto nodded and stared at his hands. Why did he have a habit of taking things out on one of the few people who actually cared about him?There was so much he didn’t understand. He may not have liked to discuss their parents, but Fuyumi was the only person he could learn something from. Should he ask? Their parents had a quirk marriage, but what did they mean to each other in the past?“What...What did their soulmarks look like?” Shouto couldn’t stop himself from asking. Fuyumi paused and scrunched her face while she tried to think.“The last time I ever saw them, Mom’s was a bird and Dad’s was a frozen rose on his chest.” Fuyumi tapped her fingers over her heart, “By the time I was old enough to understand what soulmarks were, I was too afraid to ask what the marks meant for them...”“Where was mom’s soulmark?” Shouto asked, wondering if the placement of the marks meant anything. His father’s mark over his heart was more of a cruel joke if anything now. If the placements really meant anything, what did it mean for his mother?“Right here.”Shouto watched Fuyumi tap her stomach and his vision shifted as Fuyumi’s face changed to his mother’s as he was swept to an old memory. He’d seen that bird soulmark once, a long time ago, when he was 4 or 5.He had  gotten up before his mother had that day, but didn’t want to wake her when he realized how relaxed she looked.
Mom was sprawled out on the bed, twisted in the blankets and her hair spread across her pillow. Shouto giggled when he noticed she was even snoring a little, but covered his mouth when she started to move. Mom mumbled something in her sleep before rolling to hug her pillow. Shouto relaxed when he realized he hadn’t woken her up.

These days it seemed she could only get this kind of sleep when his father had left on a business trip. He got up, determined to make sure his mother was comfortable for these moments of peace she could get and he went to fetch another blanket from the stack in the corner.

Shouto grabbed a few, along with a few pillows to put around her before climbing up and joining her. He was just about to relax when a splash of red and white caught his eyes on his mother’s stomach. He kneeled over to get a closer look. From what he could see, it looked like a white wing and some red and white feathers beneath it. Shouto glanced up cautiously at his mother, making sure she was still asleep and tried to tug her shirt a little more to get a better look.

There were two birds, accented in reds and light blues in front of a bird cage. One of the birds was more red, while the other was a light blue. Beside the birds and cage, there were 4 other smaller birds silhouette within the splashes of color. Shouto stared at it in awe and reached out to touch the light blue bird.

“That tickles…” Mom mumbled as she stirred awake. Shouto yelped and jumped back as if he’d been caught doing something he shouldn’t. Mom laughed, sitting up to scoop him up. “Oh, if you’re going to try to tickle me, I’m not going down without a fight!”

“Nooooo!” Shouto shrieked in delight as his mother tickled his sides and smothered him with kisses.

“You’re up early, sweetheart.” She giggled and kissed his forehead.

“Nuh uh, you slept in!” Shouto whined and tried to wiggle out of her grasp.

“I did?” Mom smiled, rubbing the rest of sleep from her eyes before noticing the pillow fort, “And you made a nest?”

“I did!” Shouto grinned as she set him down beside her.

“It’s very comfortable, I don’t think I want to leave it, my little bird.” She chuckled and plopped down on the bedroll.

“Like the birds on your tummy!” Shouto giggled.

She tensed, “Oh...You saw that?”
“They’re so pretty!” He beamed, but his smile dropped when he noticed the sadness in his mother’s eyes. “What’s wrong?”
“It’s...It’s nothing, Shouto. Don’t worry about it.” She tried to smile.

“Did I do something wrong?” Shouto asked in confusion. He felt a little dejected, feeling it must have been his fault for putting his mother in a bad mood. “Why are you sad?”

“I’m not…” Mom hesitated and closed her eyes and rested a hand over her stomach. “This mark, it is beautiful isn’t it?”

“Does...Does it make you sad?” Shouto asked.

“A little bit…” She replied honestly, opening her eyes to give him a faint smile.

“Why do you have it then?” Shouto asked curiously.

“A part of me doesn’t want to let it go, I suppose.” Mom kissed his head before running her fingers through his hair. “How about we make a deal. We talk about it when you’re a little older, hmm?”
Looking back, Shouto realized his mother never got the chance to tell him about it before she was sent to the hospital. After he had seen the mark for the first time, his mother made sure to keep it more well hidden. But...Had that been the only time he had seen it? Suddenly, his heart sank and he realized there was one more time he might have seen the mark.“Mom...she…” Shouto lowered his head when it hit him.“Shouto?” Fuyumi asked concern.Shouto closed his eyes and covered his scar with a hand. He had seen his mother’s soulmark once more after that. The sound of water boiling and his own screams echoed in his head. The pain was so excruciating he could barely tell what was going on around him, but he remembered hearing his mother’s screams. Through his tears, he had opened his eye to see her lying on the floor, curled up, clutching her stomach. The kettle was lying beside her, empty.“She didn’t just hurt me that day, did she…?” Shouto could barely speak.Fuyumi didn’t say anything, but she didn’t have to. They both knew. Neither of them spoke as Fuyumi parked in front of the house. They both sat in silence, not eager to leave the car and confront what waited for them inside.“Fuyumi...If you knew about Mom and Dad…” Shouto started, turning to face her. “Why do soulmates excite you? Why were you happy for me after what happened to them?”If anything, finding out made Shouto feel unsure about everything, maybe even a little scared. Fuyumi said nothing and rested her hand over his, giving him a gentle squeeze.“I’m sorry...I didn’t want to scare you off from finding your soulmate.” Fuyumi said softly and looked down at their hands. “I wanted to stay hopeful and to give you some of that hope.”“Hope?” He asked bewildered.“Love is never easy; it takes work from both sides. So, I hoped if you, or any of us ever got our soulmarks, that we’d have a better chance than Mom and Dad…” Fuyumi added, squeezing his hand a little tighter as she glanced at the house. “We shouldn’t feel like we are doomed to fail because of what happened to our parents and we shouldn’t be afraid to find love.”Shouto’s heart ached at her words. He looked at her and could see the tears welling up in her eyes. Despite how painful this all was, Fuyumi was so strong, staying so hopeful. Though Shouto wasn’t sure if he had the same strength as her. Hope felt like something so far from his grasp; he wasn’t sure if he’d be able to reach it.“We should head inside…” Fuyumi breathed, rubbing the tears away. “We can’t avoid Dad anymore. I promise to stay by your side.”“Yeah...” Shouto whispered and squeezed her hand in return. “Thank you…”Fuyumi turned to him and noticed the tears glistening in his eyes that refused to fall. Their gazes returned to the house and Fuyumi took a deep breath. They both knew the calm was long over. They had to face the storm and there was no escaping it.  ...Shouto and Fuyumi stood just outside the door, holding the bag of groceries while Endeavor stood inside, waiting for them. He stepped aside to let them past and they both hesitated for a moment before stepping inside. Fuyumi ducked her head as she closed the door. She could feel the rising tension; it was going to erupt at any moment.“Shouto,” Endeavor said with a stern look on his face. “We need to talk.”“Can it wait until after I set these bags down?” Shouto muttered curtly, not waiting for his answer as he walked past him, Fuyumi close behind. That was all Shouto dared to say, lest he let his anger boil out of control.“Shouto, this is a serious matter.” Endeavor insisted, a coolness in his voice. “Your future is at stake.”“Funny, it’s not like you gave mom a future.” Shouto muttered without looking back.Fuyumi cringed at Shouto’s words and the air behind them suddenly grew hot. She turned to look back at their father; his expression had darkened, embers flying off his skin. A wave of cold air came from behind her and Fuyumi looked back to see the intensity in Shouto’s eyes as he stared at their father.Caught between them, Fuyumi could see the similarities between them. It was the small things, the way their lips pressed into thin lines as their noses crinkled with anger and indigity. How their fists clenched tightly and the intensity of narrowed eyes as if they’d been set ablaze. She’d never say it aloud, especially not to Shouto, but the two were mirrored images of one another.“What else did you tell him?” Endeavor directed at her without dropping his gaze from Shouto.“Does it really matter? After everything you’ve done?” Shouto snapped. “Leave Fuyumi out of this. Unlike you, she’s done nothing, but try to help me.”“Enough of this, you insolent child.” Endeavor hissed, moving past Fuyumi, “Show me the mark.”Endeavor reached to grab for Shouto’s arm. Startled, Shouto pulled backwards and dropped the bags he’d been carrying. Although he wasn’t fast enough and his father managed to catch his sleeve.   “Dad, stop--!” Fuyumi called, but stopped short when Shouto pulled his arm from his sleeve.At first Shouto didn’t understand why it suddenly got very quiet. Not until he noticed his father and sister were both staring at him, or rather at his arm. Looking down, Shouto’s eyes widened when he noticed the once coin sized soulmark had grown in size, the dark lines now creeped from his upper arm to his shoulder and onto his chest. Not only that, but brilliant colors, mostly reds and purple now covered the soulmark.  “You saw them.” Endeavor narrowed his eyes.Shouto felt everything stop and he was suddenly taken back to the grocery store when he’d been talking to Fuyumi.
“So...how do I figure out who my soulmate is?” Shouto asked curiously.

“Well, your mark will become more intricate the more you interact with them.” Fuyumi explained, tapping her arm. “If you see it change, just try to remember who you’ve talked to.”
Midoriya.There was no one else there, no one else he’d spoken to. Suddenly, his mind was filled with images of Midoriya, his smile, the way he looked when he got flustered, the softness in his face when he played with the cat earlier. Just the way Shouto was able to talk to him and make him feel at ease as if it was effortless…“Who did you see?” Endeavor snapped him out of his thoughts.Shouto’s stomach dropped and he remained silent. No, he couldn’t tell him; he couldn’t drag Midoriya into this.“Shouto.” Endeavor said sternly, but Shouto refused to speak. “Fuyumi, who did he see?” Endeavor turned his attention to his daughter, no longer having any patience for Shouto’s silence.Fuyumi’s hands were shaking as she looked between her father and brother. Shouto looked at her with fear. They both knew. There could have only been one person who could have changed his soulmark, but this wasn’t the time or place for their father to find out.“I don’t know.” Fuyumi said firmly, clenching her fists. “There were a lot of people there.”  “You may not know,” Endeavor replied before looking down at Shouto. “But you do.”“Get the hell away from me.” Shouto snatched his arm away, slipping out of his jacket before he stormed down the hall.“You can’t walk away from this, Shouto.” Endeavor followed him.Shouto stopped in front of the door that led to the courtyard and clenched his hands tightly.
“Todoroki,” Midoriya spoke, “When I saw you earlier...You looked very lonely. I didn’t know what you were going through, but I couldn’t find myself walking away.”

“I’m glad you didn’t walk away…”
“Do you believe having a soulmate will guarantee you happiness?” Endeavor asked.“No, I don’t.” Shouto answered honestly, his thoughts on his parents. It was like cracks had formed all over him. Each word his father spoke chipped away at the hope he had left. Every last bit was being used against him. He wanted to stay hopeful, but how could he?“I know who my soulmate is.” Shouto firmly said as he turned to face his father. “But you won’t have to worry about them. I refuse to drag them into this hell!”Shouto meant every word, though he  refused to betray his true feelings. He was scared. Scared at the thought of bringing Midoriya into any of this. The only thing he knew for sure was he had to protect Midoriya at all costs.“Do you think it will just be that easy to forget?” Endeavor scoffed. Behind him, Fuyumi was speechless.  “At least I have the courage to let of them go, rather than hurt them!” Shouto shouted, his anger beginning to rise. Shouto glared as embers flared in the air around his father once more.“If your resolve is so strong on the matter, then this is something less to get in the way of your future.” Endeavor responded cooly. “Your lack of resolve and stubbornness has been keeping you back.” “What future? To fulfill something you were never able to do yourself?” Shouto snapped, his anger swelling. His father had hurt them trying to make that dream a reality, but how could all this pain be worth it? “How dare you hurt the person you were supposed to love and keep safe! And for what?”  Shouto lashed out his left arm and embers suddenly came off it, much to their surprise. Shouto drew his arm back and frost formed over it to snuff out the flames. No, he had to calm down. He would not let his father win. “Stop holding back your true power, Shouto!” Endeavor suddenly stepped towards Shouto and he quickly stepped back.“Dad, just give him some space--!” Fuyumi quickly stepped between them.“Fuyumi, know your place!” Endeavor roared and Fuyumi winced. She dropped her gaze and turned it towards Shouto, only to tensed when she saw his expression.  “Know her place…? Are you joking? You have no right to talk to her like that!” Shouto screamed, and the room suddenly turned hot and cold as Shouto struggled against the flame raging within him, “You ruined our lives, and for what? To try surpass a man you knew you would never be able to because you were too weak to know your own goddamn place!”In the whirlwind of his emotions, Shouto felt his flames rising and wanted them gone. Endeavor and Fuyumi both stepped back as the temperature suddenly dropped and frost started to form on the floor and walls. Yet Shouto could still feel the heat. He turned away and looked towards the courtyard as his vision started to blur.There were so many painful memories in this courtyard; watching his siblings play together while he was separated from them. The long summers of training day in and day out until his bones ached. Blue flames consuming the tree in the back of the courtyard. The memory was so blurry he couldn’t remember what had happened, but everything, all of it, led back to Endeavor.   “Everything you touch, you destroy, like your quirk and I want nothing to do with it!” Shouto screamed, losing control of his power.Shouto unleashed spires of ice that broke through the doorway, branching out as it covered the length of the courtyard. The spires reached high above the house, engulfing the tree and damaging the other end of the building. Both Endeavor and Fuyumi stood in stunned silence and Shouto turned around to stare at Endeavor coldly; frost covering his body.“I will surpass you how I see fit, without your hell flames…” Shouto breathed heavily before he stormed off. He didn’t bother looking back, even when Fuyumi called after him.Instead, his mind went to the ice spires he had just created. He’d never created something that powerful, at least not in the spur of the moment. Shouto was shaking by the time he slid open the door to his room. He stumbled, barely able to fall onto his bedroll before his knees buckled.From there, Shouto went in and out of consciousness while his body tried to return to a stable temperature. He was in a cold sweat and no doubt had overworked himself too quickly. Eventually, he opened his eyes and found himself lying sprawled out on his bed. There was a blanket draped over him he never remember putting on. It was a lot darker now than when he first came in.Shouto sat up slowly, tugging the blanket around his shoulders. By the door, he noticed there was a tray of food and he quietly made his way towards it, taking the blanket with him. Soba noodles; Shouto remembered Fuyumi had promised to make it as a celebration. Shouto wasn’t in the mood to celebrate anymore. Though, before he turned back to bed, he noticed a small note beside the plate of noodles. He picked it up and read the small message Fuyumi had left.
Please eat something. If you need someone to talk to I’m always here. Hang in there.

-Fuyumi

Hang in there.
“Yeah, for how much longer…?” Shouto muttered softly, his voice hoarse.Shouto closed his eyes and set the note back down before he picked up the plate. He felt numb while he ate, as if he was eating on autopilot for Fuyumi’s sake so he wouldn’t worry her. Now that things were quiet and he had time to think, this thoughts kept going back to one person.
Midoriya.
Shouto stared at his meal and wondered what Midoriya’s favorite food was. Stop. He couldn’t think about that, not when his thoughts and emotions felt so tangled. He’d already made up his mind, right? He wasn’t going to accept him. He couldn’t, for both their sakes.It was childish to have hoped he could be happy with Midoriya, someone he’d just met. But that someone was his soulmate. How could he expect things to work out though. It was like some sick joke fate was playing, but Shouto wasn’t laughing.There was still a weight in his chest that hadn’t faded since the moment he realized it was Midoriya. It was funny to think a few hours ago he once felt so hopeful about finding his soulmate. Turns out he’d been in front of him the entire time and it filled him with nothing but dread. Was this the same feeling his mother had once felt? The loneliness, isolation, feeling as if there was no escape from all this pain?Shouto’s thoughts went to the bird soulmark his mother once had. Had things been different,would she have been able to help him understand all these mixed feelings? What would she think if she found out he had a soulmate? Would she be supportive, but tell him to be cautious like Fuyumi had? Would seeing it cause her the same grief his left side had caused her…?Shouto pushed his thoughts away. He wasn’t ready to face them yet; face her yet. He still hadn’t seen her since the day of the incident. It was moments like this were Shouto wondered if his pain could cause him to slip into the same madness as she had. The thought terrified him; he didn’t want to hurt anyone he cared about, or himself...Shouto absently ran his hand along his own soulmark, and for some reason touching it made him feel at ease. He took a deep breath before daring to look at his mark. Even in the low light, he could make out the splashes of red and purple along the jagged lines. He traced the lines with his finger. In a word, it was chaotic. Yet, he couldn’t shake the feeling he’d seen something like this before.Shouto wondered what could have triggered his mark to form. They hardly interacted before the USJ attack--or maybe that’s all that it took? When Midoriya had entered the classroom on the first day of school, Shouto had felt intrigued. At first, he’d thought it stemmed from the rumors about him taking down the colossal robot during the general entrance exam.He’d kept an eye on him since then:, during the first exercise Aizawa had put them through, the heroes vs villain exercises, and even at the USJ attack. When he thought about it, the USJ had been the first time he’d actually spoken to him. Moments before Midoriya had activated his quirk and launched himself between the villains and All Might…
Red...Purple...Veins appearing on his skin.
Shouto’s eyes widened when it dawned on him those same marks were the ones that now covered his upper arm. To Midoriya, those veins appeared like a precursor to the pain his own power caused him. Shouto wondered if it somehow was supposed to mean he was going to cause Midoriya pain as well.In the brief time he gotten to know Midoriya, it was easy to tell he was a good and kind person. He didn’t deserve anymore grief. At the very least, Shouto wanted to do everything in his power to keep any harm from coming to Midoriya.Just the memory of Midoriya, with his messy hair and freckles, playing with a cat made Shouto feel at ease, and a little overwhelmed. Tears pricked at the edges of his eyes, but he forced them away. Why did he feel so upset?Shouto closed his eyes again, suddenly feeling very alone. He wasn’t sure how to deal with these new feelings; he felt angry  and had no idea what to do with any of this. The one time he let down his walls and thought he’d made a friend, he turned out to be his soulmate of all people. Is that why he had let his guard down? Because they were soulmates? The very thought made Shouto feel uneasy. How could this boy he’d just met have that big of an affect on him?Across the room, Shouto could see his phone had buzzed and lit up. Setting aside his plate, Shouto tentatively reached for it. It must have been Fuyumi checking in on him. He unlocked the phone and saw there were a few messages sent from her a few hours ago, but nothing recent. His eyes widened when he saw an unread message from Midoriya.M: /hey, you awake?/ Shouto set the phone down in a panic. Did he know? That he'd been thinking about him? That he wasn’t okay? Was that how being soulmates worked? Unsure, Shouto tentatively looked at the message. It was so simple; it could mean nothing.M: /Todoroki help im so borreeddd/ Shouto sighed in relief. Midoriya wasn't reading his mind. Of course, he'd just been likely overthinking things from all the stress. Shaking his head, Shouto stared at the messages, suddenly very unsure whether to respond.M: /Todorooookkkiii/ Don’t. Don’t respond . What’s there to debate? Shouto had already decided he wouldn’t accept Midoriya as his soulmate. He might as well cut him from his life now. It was childish to think that someone bound to him by fate would fix anything; would make him happy and make his pain go away.  What would accepting Midoriya do other than cause them grief in the long run?S: /Yeah, I'm awake./   Shouto stared at his phone. Why did he send that? He didn't even think about it, he just sent it. Why the hell did he send it? M: /oh good! I was about to give up haha/ M: /can’t sleep either?/ Shouto cursed himself; he should have just waited then they wouldn't be having this conversation. What was he supposed to do now? What was he supposed to say? How could he talk to Midoriya now that he knows he's his soulmate?S: /Not really. I don’t think I’ll be sleeping for a while./ M: /if that’s the case wanna see something funny?/ Stop. Shouto set the phone down beside him and stared at the ceiling. Why was he doing this? His phone suddenly buzzed and he clenched his jaw. No, he wasn’t going to answer that.His phone buzzed a few more times, one after the other. Shouto’s hand twitched and he glanced at it. Despite every part of him telling him no, he picked up his phone. What he saw surprised him.M: /it you/ Shouto stared, dumbfounded at a doodle in the margins of Midoriya’s notebook of a cat with his two toned hairstyle.S: /It does look like me./ Shouto wasn't sure what else to say; it even had his scar. He felt his face heat.S: /I think I like it/ M: /haha I'm glad. I made more. Wanna see?/ S: /Sure./ There was no harm in it, right? Shouto found himself relaxing a little as Midoriya sent him a few more doodles. The first was a very scruffy looking cat, asleep in a sleeping bag.S: /Is that Mr. Aizawa?/ M: /haha yeah/ After that, Midoriya sent a doodle of a cat that looked like it was floating and surrounded by stars. The cat was looking down at another cat wearing a pair of glasses.M: /Uraraka and Iida/ S: /It suits them./ Shouto closed his eyes, feeling off about all this. He didn’t understand why he was texting Midoriya. It didn't seem like Midoriya wanted anything. He just wanted to talk and show him these doodles. Was this normal? Was he replying right?S: /why are you sending these?/ M: /idk, I figured since you like cats you’d like them/ M: /cats are less complicated than people, right?/ M: /maybe if you imagine everyone as cats they’d seem less complicated/ Shouto couldn’t help but laugh. A feeling of ease washed over him when he realized Midoriya had remembered him saying that when they had spoken at the grocery store. Maybe this was something friends did?S: /I guess you're right/ M: /Hey, I know this is gonna sound a little strange. I just have this weird feeling…/ M: /Are you okay?/ There is was. Shouto felt a pit in his stomach and took a deep breath. He wondered if Midoriya could somehow sense his pain. Was that how soulmarks works? Like a gut feeling that something was wrong? Shouto wasn’t sure and at this point he was too exhausted to care.S: /No. I’m not okay./ M: /oh...do you want to talk about it?/ S: /I’d rather not/ M: /is there anything you need?/ Shouto breath hitched and his visioned hazed. Midoriya was so kind, more than he realized. Each time Midoriya had spoken to him, Shouto felt at peace. It made Shouto realized he didn’t want to be alone anymore. He wanted someone to talk to. He wanted to talk to Midoriya, like they had before when things were okay. Before everything became complicated. Before Shouto knew he was his soulmate, he just...S: /I need a friend/ M: /okay, I can do that/ M: /if that’s the case, do you want more cat doodles then?/ S: /I’d like that/ Shouto allowed himself to smile when Midoriya proceeded to send him more doodles of their other classmates. He couldn’t stop himself from laughing when Midoriya had sent him a cat All Might, with his trademark hair, wearing his yellow striped suit. It was so strange, how could something so simple make him feel better?It made the argument with his father feel distant, and Shouto allowed himself to enjoy these quiet moments. Did...Did he really mean it when he told his father he wasn’t going to accept his soulmate? He’d said he wouldn’t accept his soulmate, but did that mean he had to keep Midoriya out of his life?S: /I’m glad you’re my friend, Midoriya./ M: /I’m glad you’re my friend too. I like you. ^__^ / Shouto set down his phone quickly, his face turning red and his heart racing when he read those three words. Why was he feeling like this? At the very least he was glad they weren’t speaking face to face. He didn’t want Midoriya to see him like this.While Shouto waited to calm down, his mind briefly played with the idea of having a secret relationship, but he stomped that thought immediately. No, he couldn’t risk being selfish; it wasn’t fair to Midoriya. He didn’t want to risk Midoriya falling into the madness his family was trapped in or to hurt him.  There was still a lot he didn’t understand about soulmarks and soulmates and how it affected his own emotions, but that didn’t matter. Shouto had made his decision. They would remain friends, nothing more. That would be as far as he took it. If he wanted to keep Midoriya in his life this was just how it was going to be. If it included hiding his deeper feelings, then so be it.Shouto took a deep breath and picked up his phone. He had to say something, but there was a lot he wanted to say and things he couldn’t say. Instead, he wrote the only words that really mattered. As long as he didn’t cross any lines it should be fine.S: /I like you too./

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Midoriya woke up groggy, his phone still in his hand from texting Todoroki. He absently clicked the home button, but nothing happened.

Great. Dead.

He sighed, reaching over and patting the floor to try and find his charger with minimum effort. The two of them ended up talking for hours that night, about nothing and everything. It was the first time he had ever stayed up talking to a friend for so long.

“Izuku! What are you still doing in bed? You're going to be late if you don't hurry up!” Inko yelled as she opened the door.

“Ack!” Midoriya scrambled out bed, fighting his sheets before grabbing a towel and his uniform and darting to the bathroom.

Okay, maybe staying up wasn't the best idea…

No, it was still worth it. Sometimes. Maybe.

“Izuku, breakfast is ready and lunch is packed,” Inko shook her head. “If you don't hurry, you won't have time to eat before the train.”

“Ah, mom!” Midoriya stuck his head out of the bathroom, toothbrush still in mouth. “Could you do me a favor?”

…

Naomasa was glad when Toshinori agreed to have coffee that morning. The USJ investigation had been keeping him busy, but that didn’t mean he didn’t have time to check in on a friend. Although, the moment Naomasa saw him, he knew something was off.

Toshinori seemed...distracted. Naomasa didn’t say anything at first, choosing to watch instead as they made their way to a small cafe near UA. They’d just approached the door when a familiar face nearly walked into Toshinori.

“Oh, young Bakugou! I didn’t see you there...Good morning.” Toshinori cleared his throat.

“Am I supposed to know who you are?” Bakugou raised an eyebrow, sipping from his cup of bubble tea.

Naomasa winced when he saw the realization hit Toshinori like a train. Toshinori stepped back quickly, scrambling to figure out what to say, but Bakugou merely walked past them without another word.

“You alright, Toshinori?” Naomasa gave him a concerned look.

“Uh…well, you’d know if I was lying, wouldn’t you?” Toshinori gave him a weary smile.

“Alright, let’s just get in there and we can talk.”

Once they got their drinks, Naomasa found them a table by the window and they chatted while he waited for Toshinori to open up. It took a few minutes of small talk and watching the traffic and people passing by for Toshinori to finally crack.

“I did something dumb.” Toshinori rested his head on the table, still staring at his phone.

Naomasa glanced at his phone, then back to Toshi, “Expecting a call...?”

Toshinori let out a disgruntled groan and Naomasa gave him a patient look.

“Mid-- I mean, someone I’m close with just found out they have a soulmate and I’m happy for him, really!” Toshinori fumbled over his words. “I want to offer him support, but at the same time…”

“You didn’t realize it would bring back old feelings?” Naomasa raised an eyebrow as he drank his coffee.

“Are you sure your quirk isn’t mind reading.” Toshinori gave him look.

“No, I just know you well enough by now,” Naomasa chuckled before pointing at Toshinori’s phone. “So...About the phone and Nighteye. How are those connected exactly?”

“I was tired and stupid and accidentally called him,” Toshinori whined. “And threw my phone into the wall.”

“Ah, there it is.” Naomasa nodded before picking up his phone.  “I’m surprised that’s all the damage you caused it. Still, I figured it’d take more to get you this frazzled.”

“He called me back, when I was asleep,” Toshinori explained. “He left a voicemail...”

Naomasa studied Toshinori’s face, “And you’ve listened to it?”

“Yeah,” Toshinori said softly and although he hadn’t admitted how many times exactly, Naomasa had the impression it'd already been well more than once.

“No doubt he heard what happened and was worried about you,” he offered him a gentle smile.

“It’s just...Hearing him like that…” Toshinori traced a finger around the rim of his coffee. “It brought back a lot of things I wasn’t ready to deal with.”

“Any idea when you will be?” Naomasa asked, followed by more of Toshinori’s disgruntled groaning. “You know, Sir Nighteye has your All Might posters in his office.”

Toshinori’s head shot up and he looked at him, stunned. “

Excuse me?

”

“I’ve collaborated with him a few times for work.” Naomasa grinned, endlessly amused by his reaction. “And despite whatever happened between the two of you, he still thinks very highly of you.”

Toshinori looked away before shaking his head. “He respects All Might...The Symbol of Peace. But, Toshinori? That’s more complicated.”

“Are you seriously feeling jealous about yourself?” Naomasa laughed.

“Oh, shut up,” Toshinori snorted and couldn’t help but smile.

“All Might and Toshinori are two sides of the same coin,” Naomasa noted, glad he at least managed to get a smile out of him today.

“You’d be surprised how much of a lousy soulmate Toshinori was,” Toshinori sighed, his gaze lingering out the window.

“You’re a little bit of a disaster, yes, but I don’t think you give yourself enough credit.” Naomasa bumped his shoulder. “If you really want something to change between you two, why don’t you try talking again?”

“Tried that, didn’t like it much,” Toshinori muttered, leaning back in his chair. “Nighteye didn’t approve of Midoriya as my successor. Went all high and mighty saying ‘I’ll find a proper successor’ as if that would change my decision.”

“Hmm, so it’s complicated then.”

Toshinori let out one last sigh before downing the rest of his drink and grabbing his suit jacket. “I should get going soon, thanks for the coffee and...everything else.”

“No problem, don’t become a stranger just because you’re a teacher now.” Naomasa smiled and offered him pastry for the road. “Take care, Toshinori.”

Toshinori looked at the pastry before taking it with a small smile, “Thank you, I’ll try not to be.”

In that moment, a blur of green and grey ran past the window. Naomasa couldn’t forget those messy green curls. “Wasn’t that your boy who just ran by?”

“Uh huh,” Toshinori replied, looking surprised. “I figured he’d already gotten to class by now, it’s getting late.”

“Slept in maybe?” Naomasa offered.

“He’s usually pretty good about getting to class early.” Toshinori looked at the direction Midoriya had gone. “Wonder what held him up. ”

...

Midoriya was a little out of breath by the time he’d reached the school with only minutes to spare before the first bell. The favor he asked his mother for took him a little longer than he thought, so he ended up missing the first train. He stepped into class and noticed it was pretty lively even though it was still early in the day.

Midoriya quickly scanned the room for Todoroki; he wasn't sure where he sat until he spotted him in the back of the class. Their eyes met and Midoriya smiled when Todoroki’s demeanor brightened. He gave him a small wave before making his way to him.

“Hey, Midoriya!” Kirishima called and Midoriya looked over, surprised by how the cheerful redhead was sitting in his seat. “Just keeping it warm for ya and keeping Bakugou company.”

“I didn't know you and Kacchan were friends.” Midoriya couldn't help but smile.

“You could say that,” Kirishima grinned and glanced over at Bakugou who shot him an annoyed glare before turning his attention to Midoriya.

“Look what the cat dragged in,” Bakugou muttered and Midoriya cringed at the jab.

“Wasn't sure if you were gonna make it today. You were pretty banged up after all after the USJ,” Kirishima added as he stood.

“Oh, I’m fine, just had something I needed to do before school.” Midoriya looked away, frazzled before noticing a drink in Bakugou's hand. “Um, is that bubble tea, Kacchan?”

“And what of it?” Bakugou snapped.

“See! Even Midoriya is surprised to see you drinking that!” Kirishima yelled. “You don’t seem the type to drink something like that.”

“WHAT'S THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN, WHY WOULDN'T I LIKE IT?”

“No, I mean-!” Kirishima raised his hands in defense. “Is it good?”

Midoriya looked between them as they bickered. He looked around a little helplessly, searching for a way to get around them. In his search, he suddenly noticed Uraraka watching Bakugou and Kirishima with a small smile. Midoriya looked back to see Bakugou shoving the drink in Kirishima’s hand. Kirishima was taken aback, but accepted the drink.

“Oh wow, this is a little weird, but pretty good.”

“What did I tell you!” Bakugou snapped, irritated.

“You gotta tell me where you got this!” Kirishima insisted.

Midoriya glanced back at Uraraka, noticing her smile had grown. He was a little surprised and wondered what that was about, but now he kind of wanted his own bubble tea.

Shaking his head, Midoriya tried to squeeze past Kirishima when Iida suddenly appeared.

“Bakugou, Kirishima, stop making a commotion!”

“Hey, it's good, who wouldn't make a fuss about it?” Kirishima replied, offering Iida the drink.

“I didn't say you could share that with the entire class, you ass!” Bakugou huffed and snatched back his drink.

“Oh right, sorry about that, man!”

“What did I say about causing a commotion you two!”

“So noisy,” Aizawa muttered as he entered the classroom, covered from head to toe in bandages. “Everyone take your seats.”

“Mr. Aizawa!” The class erupted into chaos as everyone quickly returned to their seats, asking if he should even be out of the hospital yet. Midoriya quickly glanced at Todoroki, giving him a helpless look before taking a seat.

Todoroki watched Midoriya and let out a breath. He thought he’d be fine when he saw Midoriya. Though, he didn’t expect to feel so antsy when Midoriya hadn’t arrived to class sooner. Midoriya was usually one of the first to get to class; his nose in a slightly burned notebook.

But why had he been late today? Had something happened? They had just had a villain attack, there was no telling if villains would go after them out of school. His thoughts twisted and swirled until Midoriya had finally stepped through the door, a little out of breath but otherwise fine.

From there, all Todoroki could do was watch as Midoriya tried and failed to approach him. At the very least, Todoroki was relieved Midoriya was fine, but it didn’t help he couldn’t speak to him until the end of the lecture. Todoroki wanted to thank him for helping him.

Sighing softly, Todoroki resigned himself to paying attention to Aizawa’s lecture on the Sports Festival. Normally, anything about the festival would fill him with a sense of dread; longer, difficult training sessions with his father. Instead, Todoroki found his thoughts unexpectedly drifting to Midoriya.

His soulmate.

“Hey, Todoroki! Excited about the Sports Festival?” Midoriya cheerfully asked him once homeroom had finally been dismissed.

No.

“Are you?” Todoroki asked instead.

“Uh, I think I’m a little more nervous than excited, but yeah, excited!” Midoriya rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. “Oh, by the way, are you okay?”

“I’m not sure what you mean.”

“I don’t know. I just seems like something is still bothering you.” Midoriya shrugged.

“I’m fine. Talking with you yesterday helped a lot,” Todoroki assured him. At least, that wasn’t a complete lie.

“Been imagining everyone as cats?” Midoriya poked his shoulder teasingly.

“No, I haven’t given it a shot yet.” Todoroki couldn’t help but laugh and he found himself glancing away before he noticed Midoriya’s hand was still bandaged. “Your hand…”

“Oh! Uh, it still aches, but I’m fine!” Midoriya jerked his hand behind his back. “...If that’s what you’re wondering...” He trailed off and looked away a little nervously.

“I see.” Todoroki stared at him warily.

Could that be where his mark is?

“Anyway! I got you something!” Midoriya pulled his other hand from behind his back and placed a boxed lunch on his desk, much to Todoroki’s surprise. “Since things have been pretty hectic, I wanted to give you this to cheer you up!”

“What is…” Todoroki’s expression softened as he rested a hand on the gift.

What did he do to deserve this?

“Ah, it’s kinda why I was almost late,” Midoriya rubbed his neck. “I asked my mom to help pack me an extra lunch.”

Todoroki took a deep breath, ignoring the odd feeling in his stomach. “Thank you, I don’t really know what else to say.”

“You don’t have to say anything. I just hope you enjoy it!” Midoriya laughed before Present Mic made his entrance to begin class. Midoriya returned to his desk before glancing back at Todoroki. “See you at lunch!”

Todoroki watched him go with a smile before tucking away the lunch. He supposed having lunch with Midoriya was a good way as any to start to getting to know him better. It felt...nice receiving a gift, especially from a friend. Todoroki didn’t want to admit how eager he was to see what Midoriya got for him.

Class seemed to go on for eternity, but Todoroki did what he could to focus. He was already ahead on most of the material and ended up doodling Present Mic as a cat out of boredom. It became a habit as the school day wore on, for Todoroki to draw their teachers as cats alongside his notes.

When lunch finally rolled around, Midoriya approached his desk, ready to go with Uraraka and Iida by his side.

“Since when did the two of you get so friendly?” Uraraka teased while they made their way to the cafeteria.

“Oh, well, we were there helping All Might during the USJ attack,” Midoriya explained, sharing a look with Todoroki and offered him a smile. “Then we kinda ran into each other the day and got to talking.”

“Midoriya brought me a box lunch,” Todoroki added, holding up his lunch.

“That’s so cute!” Uraraka laughed. The way Todoroki was holding it, plus the sparkle in his eyes made it seem it was a great honor. “Hey, Deku, I’ve been your friend longer. Where’s my box lunch?”

“Eh?” Midoriya looked flustered.

“Uraraka, stop pestering Midoriya.” Iida shook his head before adjusting his glasses and looking at Midoriya seriously. “However, I would love to get a box lunch from a friend too.”

“Oh, come on, you too?” Midoriya’s face went red. “At this rate I’d have to pack a picnic basket of food. I’d have to wake up early to help my mom, then there’s the matter of carrying it on my own. That shouldn’t be a problem, but if the train is crowded…”

Todoroki watched, amused as Midoriya went on to mutter how he would go about bringing his friend’s lunch. Iida and Uraraka stared at their muttering friend as it dawned on them he was being serious. The two quickly took back what they said, and Midoriya snapped out of his muttering trance with a soft, “Oh.”

Todoroki watched Midoriya fondly, amused by how the three teased each other.

So, this was how friends were like?

In that moment, Midoriya looked back at Todoroki with a smile of his own.

"YOUNG MIDORIYA IS HERE!" A familiar booming voice startled Todoroki and the group turned to look down the hall to see see All Might, of all people.

"Whoa, All Might!” Midoriya looked at him, surprised. “What are you doing here?"

"Lunch!” All Might declared before holding up a box lunch. “Ya wanna eat with me?"

"That's adorable!" Uraraka laughed, unable to handle all the cute box lunches.

"Whadda say?" All Might looked at Midoriya expectantly.

Todoroki glanced at Midoriya, seeing how he looked frazzled before he turned to look at the group, a little helpless. Iida and Uraraka looked at Midoriya encouragingly. Todoroki stared at his box lunch.  Unsure what else to do, he gave Midoriya a small nod.

“Um, sure thing!” Midoriya finally replied, “Uh, I’ll see you guys later?”

“See you later,” Todoroki replied and felt a little disappointed as he watched Midoriya go.

He’d been hoping to get this chance to spend time with Midoriya, but if he’d been in Midoriya’s place, he’d jump at the chance as well. Still, why did he feel upset? Was it because he now knew what they were supposed to be to each other?

“Hey, what are you doing just standing there?” Uraraka called. Todoroki blinked and noticed Uraraka and Iida looking at him expectantly from the stairs. “Aren’t you coming?”

“Huh?” Todoroki looked puzzled.

“Won’t you be joining us for lunch?” Iida clarified, with a warm smile.

“Oh…” Todoroki hesitated. “Are you sure you want me to join you?”

“It’s not a bother at all,” Iida assured him.

“The more the merrier!” Uraraka added cheerfully. “Let’s go! I’m starving!”

Uraraka turned on her heels and continued down the steps. Todoroki followed behind them quietly. He normally ate lunch on his own, but if he was going to become Midoriya’s friend, he might has well get to know Midoriya’s friends, right?

“So, why do you think All Might wanted to have lunch with Deku?” Uraraka asked curiously as they made their way to the cafeteria.

“He could be giving him advice for the sports festival, ” Iida suggested.

“Their quirks are very similar,” Todoroki added and couldn’t help but think back to that rush of air he felt when Midoriya had jumped to help All Might.

“Huh, I guess you’re right,” Uraraka hummed. “What are the odds.”

“Whatever they are, they seem to be in Midoriya’s favor,” Iida laughed as they walked into the cafeteria.

“Geez, the lines are so long,” Uraraka whined. Iida and she glanced at Todoroki, particularly the boxed lunch he was carrying.

“I’ll find us a table,” Todoroki offered, without missing a beat.

“Thanks! You’re the best!” Uraraka grinned before dragging Iida to the end of the line before it got any longer.

Todoroki flushed and watched them go. He wasn’t used to hearing someone say things like that to him. Shaking his head, he pressed on and found an empty booth. Todoroki took a seat and set down his lunch with a small smile.

For a moment he considered if he should wait for Uraraka and Iida before starting to eat. Well, it wouldn’t be too much if he just got a peek, right? Todoroki began to untie the cloth around the box lunch when he noticed a small piece of paper resting on top with his name on it.

Hello, Shouto, I was a little surprised when Izuku asked me to help make this lunch last minute. It’s the first time’s he’s wanted to make something on his own. I’m glad he wanted to cheer you up. Izu’s been happier since the two of you became friends. Thank you for that. I hope you enjoy the lunch, it’s Izu’s favorite!

-Inko

“His favorite…” Todoroki muttered as a small smile tugged at his lips. He tucked the note away and opened the box to find stripes of fried pork sitting on a bed of white rice. The pork was sprinkled with seasonings and pieces of green onion. It didn’t look like anything he was used to eating, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t willing to try it.

“Whoa, that looks good!” Uraraka gawked as she sat down beside Todoroki with her lunch.

“You haven’t started eating?” Iida noted curiously.

“Figured I’d wait.” Todoroki shrugged, scooting over to give Uraraka room.

“Well, that’s courteous of you.” Iida smiled, sitting across from the two.

“Did Deku make all that?” Uraraka looked between Todoroki and his lunch.

“He did.” A small smile tugged at the edge of his lips.

“I suppose that explains why he was almost late,” Iida commented before taking a sip of his drink. “So? What’s the verdict?”

Todoroki picked up one of the strips of pork and took a bite. A wave of ease suddenly washed over him as he took in the flavors. It was certainly different from the tamer foods he was used to, but the taste was savory and mouth watering. The more he thought about it, the more he realized this food brought him the same comfort it had when he had spent time with Midoriya on that cold evening.

“It’s very good,” Todoroki replied with a small smile, allowing himself to enjoy the feeling. “Midoriya’s a good cook.”

“Oh, let me try!” Uraraka looked at him with stars in her eyes.

“Uraraka, it was a gift.” Iida gave her a stern look.

“Relax, I was gonna share mine too if he said it was okay,” she added, looking at Todoroki expectantly.

Todoroki looked between the two, a little flustered. “No, I don’t mind sharing...Do you want to try too, Iida?”

“Oh, I suppose if you don’t mind...”

“Are these your favorite foods?” Todoroki asked curiously while the three swapped bits of their meals.

“It is.” Iida smiled, gesturing to his bowl of beef stew.

“Well, I like japanese food and sweet things like mochi,” Uraraka replied with a sheepish look. “This was just the cheapest thing on the menu.”

“Was sharing meals your idea to get more variety?” Iida teased at Uraraka’s plate of fried rice. It had a mix of vegetables, eggs and some chicken. Nothing too fancy.

“Hey! Don’t call me out,” Uraraka muttered before purposefully eating her share of beef stew. “Oh, this is actually pretty good. It’s so warm and cozy.”

“If you want, I could get you your own beef bowl next time,” Iida offered. “I wouldn’t mind. It’s important for aspiring heroes to get balanced meals. Your lunch isn’t too bad though.”

“I might just take you up on that.” Uraraka grinned before clapping her hands together. “Okay, last, but not least, Deku’s lunch!”

“Why do you call him Deku?” Todoroki asked as he finished his share of Iida’s lunch. When he thought about it, the only other person who called him that was Bakugou, usually while screaming and threatening him.

“It’s a nickname Bakugou gave Deku to tease him when they were little,” Uraraka pouted and rested a hand on her chin, annoyed, “But then Deku liked it when I said it’d make a cool hero name,” she added with a warm smile. “He’s liked it ever since.”

“Deku...” Todoroki muttered softly, as if to test the name. A part of him didn’t like that it was used to tease Midoriya, but he was glad to hear he didn’t seem to mind it now.

“Wasn’t that only three days ago?” Iida looked to Uraraka. “You make it sound like it happened a long time ago.”

“Yeah, well it might as well been. You know a lots happened since then.” Uraraka waved him off before picking up the piece of pork cutlet to take a bite. “Wow, Deku made this right? It’s pretty good.”

“Huh, you’re right, this is pretty good,” Iida chuckled as he tried it himself. “Midoriya’s a little scattered at times, but once he sets his mind on something, he’s puts his all into it.”

“That sounds about right,” Todoroki noted and relaxed as he took another bite from the meal.

“What’s your favorite food, Todoroki?” Iida asked.

“I can show you tomorrow at lunch.”

“You aren’t going to give us a hint at what it is?” Uraraka raised an eyebrow.

“It’s soba.”

“Oh, you’re no fun! I wanted to guess!” Uraraka pouted. “You’re so blunt.”

Todoroki shrugged and went back to his meal. It was strange, he didn’t have a chance to have lunch with Midoriya today, but spending time with Uraraka and Iida today made him feel good. It was another thing Todoroki hadn’t been expecting to do, but he found it amusing nonetheless.

“Hey, Todoroki, you have a nice smile!” Uraraka pointed out.

Todoroki looked up and felt the tip of his ears go red. “I...uh...”

He was smiling?

“Haven’t you teased Todoroki enough?” Iida laughed.

“Hmm, no.” Uraraka gave Todoroki a playful look. “You should smile more! It’s cute!”

“Now I’m not going to do it.” Todoroki looked away.

“You’re cute when you’re embarrassed too!” Uraraka giggled while Todoroki covered his ears when they turned redder and Iida laughed along with her. Despite his annoyance, Todoroki felt the edge of his lip raise a little.

Today was a day of so many firsts, wasn’t it?

…

The private teacher’s lounge was quiet while Toshinori and Midoriya ate their lunch together. They’d just finished their discussion about the Sports Festival. Midoriya had been muttering nonstop about strategy until Toshinori insisted he’d had to stop to eat something.

Toshinori knew he was expecting a lot from his successor, but the world wasn’t going to give him any breaks. He needed to ensure that Midoriya would be fine on his own, if necessary. From here on out, they’d need to focus on getting Midoriya to gain more control over his quirk. A little push like the deadline to the Sports Festival might be what he needed.

Then again…

Toshinori took a sip of tea, watching Midoriya absently pick at his food. Muttering was one thing, but Midoriya was just

quiet

, all the while those gears kept turning in his head. It was one of the things Toshinori admired about his successor. His mind was always active, but at times it could be a curse. It would really do him some good if he remembered to relax. Then again, Toshinori figured he wasn’t one to talk.

Midoriya sighed and pushed aside his boxed lunch, his nerves finally getting the better of him as he sipped his tea. Toshinori set down his own lunch and gave the boy a sympathetic look. It seemed all his time now was being taken with his duties as a teacher, and he hadn’t been balancing enough time to check in with Midoriya.

“So...tell me, my boy, how have you been? I know things have been pretty hectic,” Toshinori asked, attempting to break the silence. He glanced down absently and gestured to Midoriya’s bandage hand. “Any updates on your soulmate?”

Toshinori jumped when Midoriya choked on his tea and it suddenly came out his nose.

“You...You can’t just follow up the whole ‘You need to say For I am here!’ thing and then suddenly ask me that!” Midoriya spluttered between coughs, rubbing his nose.

“Er...You’re right, I’m sorry!” Toshinori looked away. It wasn’t really fair for him to hit him with so many fast balls at once.

Well done, Toshinori.

“It’s just, I figured some of your uncertainty may also be contributing to not being able to get a handle on controlling your quirk!”

“You’re saying my love life is keeping me from not breaking my bones?” Midoriya looked at him, panicked.

“That’s not…” Toshinori trailed off. They sat there in awkward silence, one occasionally glancing at the other before looking away, unsure what to do or say, “Okay, let’s get you some air.”

…

“Usually, the roof’s off limits to anyone who isn’t authorized, but I like to come up here sometimes,” Toshinori explained as he opened the door to the roof. “Think of it as our little secret. If you ever need somewhere to clear your head and enjoy a view with a nice breeze, this is a good place.”

“The Symbol of Peace is breaking the rules?” Midoriya gave him a small smile, leaning his arms on the rails.

“Bending them,” Toshinori corrected, glad to see he was starting to relax.

The two fell into a comfortable silence and Toshinori realized how reminiscent to be on this roof felt to when they had first met. He glanced at Midoriya and saw a softness to his face as he looked out to the city below. Perhaps he was remembering as well.

“Do you want to know why I said no when you asked me if you could be a hero?” Toshinori asked.

“Is it something I want to know?”

“I saw myself in you. The passion, the fear, I saw a younger me where you stood,” Toshinori offered with a patient look. “I could see you taking the same steps I had taken, each eventually leading you to get hurt like I did or worse.”

“Well, you were right to worry.” Midoriya stared at his hands with a weak smile. “I ended up breaking my bones all on my own.”

“I suppose you were going to get hurt one way or another,” Toshinori snorted. “Let’s try to keep the self bone breaking to a minimum.”

“Right.”

“We’ll meet again soon to help you figure out how to get a better grasp at your quirk.” Toshinori had already been brainstorming a few ideas: extra training after school, non-combat exercises and training, with a focus on Midoriya finding control over his quirk. “I think what’s best is for you to find some focus.”

Toshinori looked over at Midoriya and raised an eyebrow, noticing the boy spacing out.

“Hey, kid, were you listening?”

“Huh?” Midoriya jumped. “Oh! I’m sorry, All Might!”

“See what I mean? You’re distracted.” Toshinori poked the middle of the boy’s forehead. “Not that I can really blame you.”

“Were you nervous? For your first Sports Festival?” Midoriya asked timidly.

“I was, believe it or not. I didn’t start out as the Symbol of Peace after all; I had to work for it. I also didn’t want to let anyone down. There were so many people who got me to where I am today,” Toshinori replied, resting a hand on Midoriya’s head as a light brightened in his eyes. “Just know, if things ever get too much for you to handle, don’t be afraid to step back and take a breath. Otherwise, you’ll burn yourself out.”

Surprisingly, Midoriya took a literal step back, letting out a deep breath.

“I’m worried and afraid of so many things...Well, maybe afraid isn’t the only word I’d use...Nervous? Unsure? Uh, anyway,” Midoriya admitted, closing his eyes and gripping his arm tightly. For a moment, Toshinori could see the same scared, quirkless boy asking him if he could be a hero, until he opened his eyes. “I’m just glad that despite everything, I have you with me. I don’t want to let you down either.”

“I promise to remain by your side then,” Toshinori reassured him.

For as long as I can...

“Thank you, All Might.” Midoriya whispered.

They quickly fell into a much more comfortable silence and they allowed themselves to take in the view. Although Toshinori found himself casually glancing at Midoriya’s hand again. He noticed the boy was tracing his finger over the bandages in a little pattern, tracing the soulmark beneath it. “I’m sorry about earlier.”

“Hmm?”

“Asking you about your soulmate, on top of piling everything else on top of you,” Toshinori explained.

“Oh that, uh, it’s fine really,” Midoriya replied. “I guess I’m not ready to think about that stuff yet....”

“I understand. I won’t pry, unless you ask.”

“Thanks...Can I ask you something?” Midoriya asked nervously and Toshinori looked at him in confusion. “What was it like when you first met your soulmate?”

Toshinori rubbed the back of his head and turned to lean against the railing. “Ah...we didn’t meet under the best of circumstances...I didn’t know it was him, at least not at first. I wasn’t completely sure, not until we’d met again years later.”

“Okay, but what did it

feel

like? Just seeing him?”

“Kid…” Toshinori wasn’t sure what to say while Midoriya just stared at him with those big eyes. “These things feel different for everyone.”

Midoriya kept staring at him expectantly and Toshinori knew he wasn’t going to drop it.

“...The first time I got him to smile, it made my heart soar,” Toshinori sighed, caving in. “We found happiness in each other in those few moments.” Even when everything they’d ever known was taken from them, they still found some light in the dark.

Midoriya looked at him, intrigued. “And what about when you saw him again?”

“It...It felt like coming home after being away for so long…” Toshinori’s voice grew softer. “The warmth, the peace, the familiarity...and it was like I didn’t even know I’d been away to begin with until that moment, but I felt like this was where I belonged.”

“Your soulmate, former soulmate, uh, I mean --” Midoriya struggled to find the right words. “You feel homesick, don’t you?”

Toshinori gave him a weak smile, but couldn’t respond. How could he when he had been the one to tear down that home he and Nighteye made together?

“So, do you think it’s gonna take me awhile to feel like I’m home?” Midoriya asked when Toshinori didn’t say anything.

“We can drop the sappy metaphor, but yeah, it might,” Toshinori chuckled and pat his head affectionately. “I’m sure you’ll know when it’s time.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Midoriya glanced away. “So, are you ever going to tell me who your soulmate was?”

“Maybe someday.”

“You’re not even going to give me a hint?”

“If I do I have no doubt you’ll try to figure out who it is on your own.” Toshinori could already see the strings and thumb tacks all over the conspiracy boards Midoriya would no doubt make. “Can’t blame you for being curious…”

“So, you are going to give me a hint?”

“...One hint and that’s it for now. At least until I feel ready to actually talk about him.” Toshinori squinted, he was already starting to regret it a little when he saw how Midoriya’s eyes lit up, “He’s another pro hero.”

“You two worked together?!” Midoriya yelled, but before Toshinori could say anything else, the school bell rang. “Ah! I’m going to be late for class! This conversation isn’t over, All Might!”

Literally saved by the bell, Toshinori.

“Yes, yes, but worry about your studies for now, I believe in you, young Midoriya!” Toshinori called as Midoriya scrambled to the door.

“I’m going to find out who it is!” Midoriya called back, just before the door shut behind him.

“I don’t doubt it…” Toshinori shook his head. He let out a deep sigh and turned back to the view to take in a few moments of silence before he returned inside. Midoriya was going to find out one way or another. Toshinori took a deep breath and found himself wishing he could have been a better role model when it came to soulmates.

Toshinori pulled his phone from his pocket and opened it to a single voicemail still sitting in his mailbox. After the initial emotional turmoil he’d endure the day before, he didn’t expect to find himself listening to it again so soon. Yet, hearing Nighteye’s voice like this, with no bitterness or anger brought him a little comfort.

“Toshinori…I assume by your panicked squawk that this call was a mistake.”

The voicemail began.

“Maybe it wasn’t,” Toshinori answered honestly. He’d been giving it some thought since it happened. The call itself may have been an accident, but did he really want it to only be that?

“It’s been over six years, and you still haven’t changed your voicemail message.”

“I still think it’s funny, so why change it?” Toshinori muttered with a sheepish grin. “You thought it was funny back then.”

Do you still think it’s funny now?

“You made it another day...” Nighteye’s voice grew softer.

“Another day, but how many more do I actually have left?” Toshinori covered his face with his hand. It was only a matter of time until his fate would catch up to him.

“Good night, Toshi...”

There was a moment at the USJ that Toshinori was

scared

fate actually had.  A part of him hated the only person he could confide in with his fate was the person who foresaw it and who he couldn’t speak with. At least, not anymore, not after everything he’s done, but…

“Maybe they were right...I’m homesick.” Toshinori muttered, thinking back what Naomasa and Midoriya had said to him. His gaze dropped to his phone and the call button.

So, why didn’t he try to find his way home?

...

Midoriya wasn’t exactly late to class, but he wasn’t on time either. As the final bell went off, the class looked up to see him rush back into the classroom. Aizawa gave him a pointed look between those slits in his bandages and told him:

“Take a seat, problem child.”

Aizawa ended up being hard on him for the rest of the day. Midoriya didn’t doubt that if he’d been late that morning, he would have gotten detention or expelled on the spot. He let out a tired breath before noticing Todoroki set down his boxed lunch on his desk.

“Thank you for the lunch,” Todoroki offered him a fond smile. “It was very good.”

“Oh! I’m glad you liked it!” Midoriya lit up, Aizawa forgotten. “Wish I could have been there to see for myself.”

“You were missed,” Iida chuckled as he approached with Uraraka.

“Yeah, it was a lot of fun!” Uraraka added with a grin. “We each got to try our lunches. Yours was soooo good.”

“Sorry I missed out then,” Midoriya laughed and was about to put away the box lunch when he noticed a piece of paper sitting on the top.

When he opened it, there was a little doodle of himself as a cat with the words ‘Thank you’ beside it. He looked up at Todoroki and they briefly exchanged a knowing look. Midoriya smiled.

“Well, I’m glad you guys enjoyed your lunch, I didn’t really get a chance to enjoy mine.”

“Why’s that?” Todoroki looked at him with concern.

“Uh, nerves mostly? All Might was talking to me about the sports festival!” Midoriya replied and put away the doodle in his hero notebook. “It’s kinda important I don’t break my bones in the first challenge.”

“Right,” Todoroki replied, noticing his name on the header before Midoriya closed the notebook and put it away.

“Well, time to cheer you up then!” Uraraka declared and turned to the door. “Ready to go?”

“Sure, but uh, for what?” Midoriya looked at her puzzled.

Uraraka turned to Todoroki and crossed her arms. “I thought you told him already.”

“I was getting to that,” Todoroki only shrugged and Uraraka just shook her head.

“I wanted to take you guys to this cafe I found. It’s nice and cozy and really close by too, you’ll love it!”

“Oh, okay, sounds fun.” Midoriya chuckled as he got up and slung on his backpack to follow Uraraka and Iida out. “Ah, Todoroki! Before I forget!”

Midoriya turned back to face Todoroki and jumped when he nearly walked into him.

“What is it?” Todoroki asked.

“My mom wanted to invite you and Fuyumi over this weekend. Do you think you guys can make it?”

“Huh?” Todoroki was caught off guard, “I uh...I can check with her.”

“I hope you can make it. My mom really likes you two. I mean, I do too.” Midoriya chuckled, wondering if this was the first time Todoroki’s ever gone over to a friend’s house. It’d explain why he was acting so strange.

“Hurry up you two, I want mochi!” Uraraka called out from the hall.

“Coming!” Midoriya called back and headed out.

Todoroki stood there for a moment while he felt his heart racing, but chose to ignore it as he followed close behind.