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Chapter Text

Chapter 1: Midoriya’s American Friend is Dead to Him

Today

December 1 11:42AM

V: So... Tani… I need you to help a girl out

Tani: wassup?

V: I need to interview people for my studies class

V: guess what you just got volunteered for?

Tani: wtf V

V: pls, 4 me?

Tani: …

Tani: fine. But like hell I'm suffering alone

V: ???

Tani: 1 sec

Midoriya Izuku was frowning, and Uraraka Ochako was confused. To be honest, she was worried, too, since he kept looking at his phone and typing. Was he texting someone? Everyone in Class 1-A was actually paying attention to Present Mic, though. Uraraka furrowed her eyebrows and tried her best to return her attention to the teacher.

Present Mic was emphatically waving his arms as he reviewed the words on the board.

Throughout class, he recounted stories about his experiences speaking English abroad. Some of them were incredibly amusing. He even got Todoroki to break a smile and huff in a way that might be mistaken for a chuckle. Both were almost unnoticeable, but they happened. And Midoriya was missing it!

“So in short, listeners, where you are matters when you are speaking English. A water fountain in the USA is a bubble fountain in Britain. And you should use caution when using pretty, quite, or rather as an intensifier if you don’t know where someone is from. Don’t make my same mistake! Sarcasm, my dear listeners, is not always universal!”

Everyone nodded which is when Present Mic noticed Midoriya’s stationary head.

“Let’s see what else you know!” Present Mic began strolling through the aisles between the students’ desks, still talking. “Someone use a word that describes how you are that has different connotations depending on the country.” The pro made a show about who to pick once he stood right next to Midoriya’s desk, even spinning around with his hand extended.

“You!” Present Mic pointed at Midoriya. “How are you?”

“I’m pissed,” Midoriya grunted without even lifting his head from his hidden phone. Present Mic was surprised but rolled with it.

“Oh? Are you drunk or angry?”

Midoriya finally lifted his head and started flushing. His face was trying to imitate a piece of paper, it seemed. Midoriya started stuttering.

“U-u-u-u-uh...angry, sir? I’m not old enough to drink...”

Present Mic started laughing, his booming voice echoing from the walls.

“That you are! Good answer! I hope you deal with that anger responsibly!”

Returning to the front of the class, Present Mic wrote “pissed” on the board. “If you are in America, pissed means to be angry.” After writing “USA=angry” he drew a mad face next to it with hair that looks suspiciously like Bakugou. Most of the students laughed while Bakugou grumbled an angry “Is that supposed to me? What the fuck?”

“Most people might say ‘I’m pissed off,’ but saying ‘I’m pissed’ does the job as well,” Present Mic continued. “If you were in the UK, Midoriya or any of you listeners would be breaking the law! Pissed means drunk over there, and I don’t mean only a little drunk. Thankfully Midoriya put my worries to rest!” Present Mic made a dramatic sigh of relief.

“Anyway, that’s all of class. Stay sober!”

The students of Class A-1 packed up and slowly started walking out of the classroom. Uraraka stole glances at Midoriya as she finished up. Eventually Midoriya came over to her desk with a beaming smile and asked her if she was ready for lunch.

Relieved that he seemed to be acting more normal, Uraraka, Iida, and Todoroki made their way to the cafeteria.

Today 13:10

V: this is a long second

Midoriya knew what he wanted to do, but like always, he was worried about it. And like always, he was also overthinking it. All through lunch, he muttered to himself. He tried to keep up appearances and join in the conversation, but everything kept bringing him back to the same worry.

Should he introduce them to V? Midoriya was apprehensive about introducing his only true childhood friend, one with far too much blackmail, to his current high school friends. Plus, she knew, and Midoriya had no doubt she would meddle. Giving her direct contact was just asking for trouble. Then again, maybe that was a good thing?

Thankfully, his not so internal monologue was low enough that no one else heard. There were a moment or two where Todoroki looked like maybe he heard something. On more than one occasion the duel quirked boy asked Midoriya if he was alright. Each time Midoriya shrugged off the concern, Todoroki looked less and less convinced.  

This was one of the few times he regretted always sitting next to Todoroki.

He’s going to do this. It’ll be fine. They’ll all get along and he won’t regret anything. No problem. He’s got this.

Today 13:15

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Deku: Hey guys! I know we don’t use this a lot but a friend of mine needs to interview some people for her heroic studies class. Is it okay if I add her?

Chargebolt: wat?

Pinky: wait? this exists?

Red Riot: i forget we even had this thing!

Ingenium: Who is this person? Do you trust them? How did you meet them? What class are they in?

Deku: V is someone I’ve been friends with since middle school. Of course, I trust her! She currently goes to school in America.

Invisible Girl: life makes so much more sense now…

Deku: What do you mean?

Cellophane: you knowing english slang was pretty...unexpected

Grape Juice: ARE WE ALL MISSING THE PART WHERE MIDORIYA KNOWS A COLLEGE GIRL????!!!!

Uravity: …

Deku: Are you okay Uraraka-san?

Uravity: I’m okay :) I think that any friend of Deku is okay to be added to the chat!

Froppy: I agree with Uraraka, Midoriya-chan

Ingenium: I suppose if she is a friend of yours Midoriya…

Deku: Thank you! One second…

Lord Explosion Murder: What the fuck! Why the fuck should we add an outsider to this chat? Let alone a friend of fucking Deku!

Today 13:24

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: you good

Tani: come on

V: took you long enough

Today 13:25

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Deku: Everyone, this is my friend V.

V: Sup :)

V: One sec…

V has changed name to Insomnia Inc.

Insomnia Inc: Better

Lord Explosion Murder: Get the fuck out.

Insomnia Inc: No thanks Kacchan

Lord Explosion Murder: How the fuck do you know that fucking name?!

Insomnia Inc: I’m friends with Tani, I've heard a lot about you, Kaachan. I knew he was exaggerating about the language, though, You are way more eloquent.

Shouto: I like her.

Lord Explosion Murder: No one asked for your opinion Half n half

Uravity: Tani??????

Insomnia Inc: It’s my nickname for Izuku

Deku: She misread my last name as Midoritani instead of Midoriya.

Deku: Thus, Tani was born.

Creati: Does Midoriya-san talk about all of us?

Insomnia Inc: Yep! Though, I will need everyone to introduce themselves for me…

Insomnia Inc: I don’t know you guys by your hero names...

Today 13:30

Tani: don’t you fucking dare

V: : P

Earphone Jack: this is gonna be interesting...

Ingenium: I shall start then. My name is Iida Tenya.

Insomnia Inc: class pres right?

Ingenium: That is correct.

Uravity: Me next!

Insomnia Inc: No need for that. I already know your name Uraraka :)

Uravity: really?!

Insomnia Inc: Yea, you come up a lot when I’m talking to Tani

Uravity: Awww Deku…

Deku: Of course I talk about you Uraraka-san, you’re one of my best friends!

Uravity: Thx!

Red Riot: What about me dude!? Kirishima Eijirou.

Insomnia Inc: Oh! You’re the dude with the hardening quirk

Can’t Stop Twinkling: What about moi? The famous Aoyama Yuuga?

Insomnia Inc: ...shiny…

Chargebolt: Oh! Oh! Me next! Kaminari Denki!

Insomnia Inc: You’re the one with the lightning quirk right?

Chargebolt: got it in one

Insomnia Inc: try not to permanently fry your brain dude

Earphone Jack: I tell him that all the time

Earphone Jack: He doesn’t listen

Earphone Jack: Jirou Kyouka btw

Insomnia Inc: you’re the girl with the sick sense of style

Earphone Jack: sick?

Insomnia Inc: you have good style

Earphone Jack: gotcha

Lord Explosion Murder: This is taking way too fucking long. Hurry the fuck up so I can move on with my life.

Insomnia Inc: You have a life?

Pinky: nice burn! I’m Ashido Mina!

Insomnia Inc: Alien Girl

Creati: Yaoyorozu Momo

Insomnia Inc: class mom that makes a lot of stuff

Invisible Girl: Hagakure Tooru!

Insomnia Inc: what do you actually look like?

Invisible Girl: the world will never know…

Tentacole: Mezou Shouji

Insomnia Inc: do your...extra mouths...have their own personality

Tentacole: yes, yes they do

Froppy: Asui Tsuyu

Insomnia Inc: but you like to be called Tsu-chan right?

Froppy: right

Sugar Man: I'm Satou Rikidou and Anima is Kouda Kouji

Insomnia Inc: sweet maker and animal talker, got it

Tail Man: Ojiro Mashirao

Insomnia Inc: your the guy with the tail and the karate moves right??????

Tail Man: Yep

Cellophane: Sero Hanta. Sup?

Insomnia Inc: scotch tape dude right? I'm good thx

Tsukuyomi: Tokoyami Fumikage

Insomnia Inc: and Dark Shadow is the name of your shadow???

Tsukuyomi: Yes

Grape Juice: And for the most important person in the class...me!

Insomnia Inc: and who are you?

Grape Juice: Mineta Minoru!

Insomnia Inc: who?

Grape Juice: you don't know me???!!!

Insomnia Inc: obviously you're not that important

Insomnia Inc: moving on…

Insomnia Inc: anyone else?

Deku: Ah! Todoroki-kun, you haven't introduced yourself yet!

Shouto: Apologizes. I'm Todoroki Shouto.

Insomnia Inc: Todoroki...Kokoo??? Wat???

Shouto: Kokoo? Where is that coming from?

Insomnia Inc: I'm really sorry.

Insomnia Inc: My kanji reading skills aren't all that good.

Insomnia Inc: I've been practicing for years but I sometimes forget some of the readings for some characters.

Insomnia Inc: This is really embarrassing.

Insomnia Inc:  Shit.

Insomnia Inc: Tani honestly tries to help, so I should know this by now. He’s a good teacher.

Insomnia Inc: I just suck as a student I guess.

Insomnia Inc: I really need to study more but I don't really have a lot of time between work and school.

Insomnia Inc: Ah!  Fuck! I’m making excuses now.

Insomnia Inc: And cursing. Dang it!

Insomnia Inc: I suppose there are some nights where I could stay up to study but I would have to schedule it in.

Insomnia Inc: But there are only so many hours a day.

Insomnia Inc: But this is important!

Deku: V, you're rambling.

Uravity: I can see why you and Deku are friends V!

Lord Explosion Murder: yeah, they both mumble like fucking idiots

Shouto: No one asked for your opinion Bakugou.

Insomnia Inc: You are now my favorite person after Tani, Todoroki

Shouto: Thank you and to correct you, my first name is the same as my username on the chat: Shou-to

Insomnia Inc: OH! YOU’RE TANI’S SHOU-CHAN!!!

Today 14:00

Tani: CONTINUE AND YOU ARE DEAD TO ME

V: >:)

Uravity: WHAT!?

Chapter Text

Chapter 2: Midoriya’s American Friend Sharpens Her Knives

Today

December 1, 14:00

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Uravity: WHAT?!

Insomnia Inc: ???

Insomnia Inc: Tani doesn’t call him that???

Today 14:02

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: FLSJFNWODSNFONSSD DON’T PLAY INNOCENT!

V: ????

Tani: YOU ARE DEAD TO ME!!!!

Today 14:04

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Uravity: No?????

Insomnia Inc: huh,,,

Pinky: oooooh! Drama!

Deku: V…

Insomnia Inc: he does with me like all the time

Today 14:06

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: STFU V!!!!!

V: NEVER!!!!!

Tani: …

Tani: you will regret

Today 14:07

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Insomnia Inc. has gone idil

Chargebolt: ??? wat happened???

Deku: …

Headphone Jack: Midoriya...where’s V???

Deku: Nothing

Deku: I mean, I'm sure her internet connection just cut out. She’ll be back in a moment!

Froppy: Why don’t I believe you Midoriya-chan?

Today 14:15

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: Now, would you like to try that again :)))))))))))

V: You are a terrifying enemy…

Tani: ik

Today 14:20

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Insomnia Inc: sry about that

Insomnia Inc: Now as I was saying

Insomnia Inc: I need to interview some ppl for school

Insomnia Inc: help?

Shouto: that is not what you were saying at all…

Insomnia Inc: shhhhhhh

Insomnia Inc: I value my life

Shouto: Okay…

Creati: I wouldn't worry about it Todoroki-san

Lord Explosion Murder: We’re not helping you with your stupid fucking project bitch

Insomnia Inc: wow so creative Kacchan

Ingenium: For once I agree with Bakugou.

Pinky: Gasp!

Red Riot: tbh never thought I'd live to see the day

Ingenium: It’s not that I don't trust Midoriya’s opinion on people, it’s just that I don't know how I feel about talking to someone NOT from UA.

Insomnia Inc: I'm not asking anything sensitive

Insomnia Inc: My report is on the everyday life of heroes in training

Deku: Which is why I volunteered the class to be interviewed! What better way to learn about heroes in training than from students of the number one hero school in the world!

Ingenium: I suppose you have a point. And you promise you will not be asking any sensitive questions V-san, correct.

Insomnia Inc: yep!

Ingenium: Then I have no problem with being interviewed!

Uravity: Me too! Anything for a friend of Deku’s!

Froppy: You can count me in too Midoriya-chan

14:30

Chat: Tani and V

V: >:)

Tani: ...regret...I feel nothing but regret…

V: >:)

Today 14:31

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Lord Explosion Murder: I don't fucking volunteer as tribute! Count me the fuck out!

Insomnia Inc: thx for agreeing to help Kacchan!

Shouto: I should have time for an Interview V. I have no problem helping a friend of Midoriya’s.

Today 14:32

Chat: Tani and V

V: Awww

V: Cute.

Tani: Die.

V: ily 2

Today 14:34

Group chat: Class 1-A Class News

Insomnia Inc: thx guys!

Chargebolt: yeh, just tell us what ya need!

Sugar Man: I'm good with being interviewed and Kouda said he could answer your questions in writing.

Insomnia Inc: cool cool

Insomnia Inc: I'll just get #’s from Tani?

Deku: If everyone else is okay with it?

Grape Juice: I'm perfectly okay with her having my number!!!

Insomnia Inc: who are you again?

Insomnia Inc: wait, I don't actually care

Invisible Girl: your my new bff

Earphone Jack: a hero to us all

Insomnia Inc: aww shucks guys

Insomnia Inc: now, who wants to hear about the time Tani lip synced to “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor dressed as All Might to win a figurine?

Today 14:40

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: pls, stop

Tani: I'm beggin you pls

V: u wish brah

Midoriya never skipped class, but today, he was truly tempted. He had broken away from the group leaving math, and he sped walked into an abandoned hallway. It led to a virtually unused staircase so it was unlikely anyone would find him.

Skipping sounded like a great plan, but then again, he’d need to ask for notes if he skipped. And he couldn’t just ask anyone for notes since some students’ notes were… not exactly plus ultra. Which means, Midoriya would have to ask one of the students he’s trying to avoid most. So he wouldn’t really be avoiding them for long. So that means he’s really only delaying the inevitable. Ceasing his muttering, he groaned.

He has regretted many a decision in his life, but introducing Veronica to Class 1-A  opened up an entirely new category of regret. The green haired boy knew she meant the best. He knew that, and yet there are moments he doesn’t believe that ie. the entire chat earlier. She never could resist the temptation to meddle and cause trouble on the way (harmless trouble, but trouble nonetheless).

This was a bad idea.

As a class, they almost received detention during math for their not so subtle texting in class. Uraraka barely bailed them out with a promise to help clean their dorm common room later that day.  He missed most of the lesson though, more preoccupied reeling V in during the chat rather than figuring out how derivatives would be relevant in his hero career. He’s definitely going to have to ask Todoroki for his notes.

He groaned again and slid down the dusty wall that felt surprising unsupportive.

She didn’t outright say it, but it wouldn’t take much for anyone to figure out what Veronica was implying about Midoriya’s feelings for Todoroki, ie. that he has non-platonic feelings for Todoroki. And although Todoroki quickly dropped the topic of his nickname, Midoriya knew it wasn’t over.

Did Midoriya mention that he was contemplating skipping? It seemed like a really appealing option.

Then again…

His anxiety about skipping eventually won early enough to get him to Weapons Support on time, but late enough for him to arrive right before class started. He’s thankful for small miracles.

It would take a blind man to miss the stares his classmates were giving him. There was not a single doubt in his mind that Midoriya would fail to leave this classroom without facing some in-person questioning.

At least the chat was quiet, so he could actually take some notes, and even though Midnight’s borderline inappropriate comments on the advantages of using her whip as a weapon made him flustered, it didn’t hold a candle to the nerves building inside him. Midoriya’s entire body was shaking, unnoticeable if you just glance at him, but his Kanji suffered for it. He had notes, but they’re sloppy. Hopefully he could still read the handwriting or this would have been all for not.

And far too soon Midnight was announcing the end of class. Midoriya tried to pack up as quickly as possible. Escape would be nearly impossible, but their was still a small chance that gave him hope… until Uraraka trapped him at his desk.

Standing in front of the only opening to Midoriya’s desk, she leaned into Midoriya’s personal space with a fake smile on her face he’d never seen before. It was unsettling to say the least.

“So, Deku-kun,” she elongated the U, and leaned close enough that Midoriya was nearly hanging out of his seat, “V is interesting.”

Uraraka propped her elbow on Midoriya’s desk, and it took a moment for Midoriya to process her comment. Of course, he couldn’t avoid stuttering and mumbling to boot.

“Oh, uh, ye-yeah. She’s an experience for sure. Some might even say she’s an acquired taste.” Realizing how that came out, Midoriya’s eyes went wide and he covered them with his right hand. “But that makes her sound bad.”

Uraraka moved away from Midoriya, leaving her hand propped on the desk, barely trapping him anymore. Midoriya, oblivious of the escape opened up to him, continued rambling and even added flailing arms to the mix, staring at his shoes and only briefly glancing up momentarily.

“That’s not what I meant! Not what I meant at all! She’s really awesome! I just mean she’s a lot to handle sometimes, especially if someone hasn’t warned you about her. Ugh, that still sounds bad.”

At this point, Uraraka removed her arm from Midoriya’s desk in favor of covering her mouth so that she could try to not laugh. He now had a clear path to the exit which he would have taken if he wasn’t too busy getting flustered again. His face was turning that adorable shade of pink again. Even though she knew she should stop him, Uraraka was tempted to let him run his course. It’s been a while since Midoriya got this flustered around her. She oddly missed it.

“She’s never boring!” Midoriya continued, “In a good way! And she means well… well most of the time anyway. Um--”

Todoroki appeared on Uraraka’s right and placed a hand on Midoriya’s shoulder, essentially cutting him off.

“We don’t need you to promote her to us. She’s your friend,” Todoroki calmly assured Midoriya, not removing his hand from Midoriya’s shoulder. The shorter boy’s face turning a darker shade of red. “That’s enough reason for us to give her a chance.”

“While that is true,” Uraraka interrupted, feeling oddly annoyed, “I was just curious why you never mentioned her. I know you don’t like to talk about your middle school years, but we sort of assumed Bakugou was your only…uh” Uraraka hesitated and then grimaced, ”friend.”

Iida suddenly appeared on Uraraka’s left, pushing his glasses up his nose and then crossing his arms. “It does seem odd, Midoriya,” he began, “that you never mentioned another childhood friend other than Bakugou. Yet, this V is clearly very close to you. It is also concerning that you are friends with an older woman!”

Midoriya does look at Iida after that comment, obviously confused. “Older woman?”

“Yes!” Iida exclaimed while making his signature Iida hand gestures. “I expected better of you, Midoriya! How did you even meet her?” Before Midoriya could answer, Iida was already continuing. “What is your age difference anyway?” Again, before the green haired boy could answer, Iida was already moving on, now more upset. “Are you together romantically?” Midoriya sighed heavily, which Uraraka unhappily noticed. Iida nearly yelled his next comment. “I’m disappointed in you!”

Feeling attacked and surrounded, Midoriya began to stand and wave his hands. “Wow, wait, Iida-kun! That’s not what--”

Midoriya was interrupted by Bakugou kicking him in the back, officially pushing him out of the desk he never left. Todoroki and Iida tried to catch him as Uraraka floated the desks behind her out of the way so Midoriya wouldn’t hit his head.

“Fucking Deku never had friends nor should he!”

“Bakugou,” Todoroki warned, offering his hands to Midoriya who hadn’t bothered trying to get up.

“And this V chick is not only annoying as hell, but she has to be stupid to think you are worth anyone’s time.”

“Bakugou!” Uraraka, Iida, and Tsu-chan exclaimed.

“Oh shut the hell up! If she’s anything like you, fucking Deku, she’s a fucking waste of space who only gets in people’s way.” After every few words Bakugou yelled, another explosion escaped his hands leaving scorch marks on the floor. Midoriya scrambled off the floor after a few explosions, completely ignoring the hands offered to him and almost hitting into the floating desks behind him despite Uraraka’s efforts.

“Bakugou, stop--” Uraraka started, reaching for Bakugou who slapped her hand away and continued his tirade.

“You both should have jumped off that school’s fucking roof together so we could be rid of you both. Fu--”

Bakugou couldn’t finish because he was sent flying into the chairs behind him, papers fluttering in the air and pencils falling out of the desks, some breaking and some rolling on the floor.

Midoriya had punched him.

One For All clearly wasn’t activated but the entire room was silent as Bakugou struggled to push the chairs off himself, slipping on a pencil, and falling again. The chairs toppled on top of him again. Midoriya had punched Bakugou, and the pile couldn’t hide the explosive teen’s bleeding lip.

“You never know when to fucking stop, Kaachan!” Scrapes on Midoriya’s knuckles were bleeding, blood dripping onto the floor as tears threatened to fall from his eyes. “You never -- I didn’t -- she was -- I wouldn’t have --” Tears began to escape as Midoriya squeezed his eyes, balled his fists, and yelled, “You don’t know anything!”

The green haired boy immediately ran out of the classroom after his outburst, using the unobstructed exit he longed for when the class ended. Midoriya tried his best to cover his mouth with his arm so his classmates wouldn’t hear his sobs as he left.

They did anyway.

Today 15:50

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: i sent the #’s

Tani: murder is not allowed

V: k

Tani: no blackmail either

V: meh

Tani: V!!!!

Tani: whatever have fun

V: ttyl :)

Today 16:13

Chat: Gravity Girl and V for Vixen

V for Vixen: Hi it’s Izuku’s friend V

Gravity Girl: Hi V!

V for Vixen: Ready to start?

Gravity Girl: Actually, would it be okay for us to do it tomorrow night?

Gravity Girl: I want to make sure Deku’s okay

V for Vixen: “okay”?

V for Vixen: what happened?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!

Today 16:26

Chat: Tani and V

V: IMMA CUT A BITCH!!!!!!!!!

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: Midoriya’s American Friend is Aided by a Frog

Today 16:26

Chat: Tani and V

V: IMMA CUT A BITCH!!!!!!!!

Tani: pls don’t

Tani: ...pls don’t get on a plane either…

V: JUST TRY AND STOP ME

V: IM CALLIN IN ONE OF MY FAVORS

Tani: don’t do that V

Tani: it’s not worth it

V: HE TOLD YOU TO KILL YOURSELF IZUKU

V: IM NOT JUST GOING TO SIT HERE AND LET YOU GO THROUGH THAT AGAIN

Tani: I SAID ITS NOT WORTH IT VERONICA

V: …it’s been a while since you’ve called me that

Tani: ….

Tani: srry V but I’m srsly ok

V: U better not be lying to me Midoritani Izuku

Tani: lol im not

V: Good :))))))

Tani: whatever you’re planning

Tani: don’t do it

V: pfff

V: I have no idea what u r talking about

V: :))))))))))))))))

Today 16:57

Chat: Class 1-A News

Deku: goddamn it V…

Deku: Oops! Sorry! Wrong chat!

Ingenium: Midoriya-kun! Please refrain from using such language!

Deku: I’m so sorry Iida-kun!

Deku: It won’t happen again :)

Red Riot: nvr mind that

Red Riot: u ok dude?

Pinky: Yeah! U ok Midori?!

Deku: …

Deku: Sorry guys, but I need to do some homework.

Deku: I’ll talk to you all later.

Uravity: Wait! Deku-kun!

Urakaka didn’t wait for a response from Midoriya. He was ignoring her texts, and now he sent an out of character text to the group chat by accident. She was going to reply right away, but decided to start her plan instead. Midoriya probably wouldn’t answer anyway.

Pocketing her phone, Uraraka placed two spoons into the All Might mug Midoriya left in her room last week and hot chocolate packets in the pink mug the green haired boy gifted her for her last birthday. Her mug was decorated with yellow stars and in a font surprisingly similar to the UA logo, it read in silver holographic ink “PRO HERO MATERIAL” as well. She touched both mugs, making them float next to her, before grabbing her keys. Deciding that the multiple text notifications deserved her attention, she pulled out her phone to check the rest of the chat.

Uraraka rolled her eyes when she read Iida’s response (even though she did fight against a slight smirk), and then she scoffed after reading Midoriya’s obvious evasion. She sent out one last text to the group chat without a response. With stronger resolve, she headed toward the kitchen.

If the strength enhancing boy was going to hide in his room, Uraraka would barge in with hot chocolate and a clear goal: get the truth and a sincere smile from Deku-kun.

Midoriya wasn’t completely lying. He did have homework to do, but he wasn’t making much progress. Between V’s appreciated but also concerning text messages, Iida’s sudden avalanche of texts after his chat mix-up, Uraraka’s suspiciously silent one-sided chat, and his own residual emotions from earlier in the day, Midoriya couldn’t keep focused enough to get through a question much less read through a paragraph. Despite working on a bed, he felt incredibly restless. He made more progress once Iida realized he wouldn’t be getting more out of his friend, but that progress was still pitiful in size.

Sighing again, the green-haired boy dropped his head into his hands. He took a deep breath, but ended up groaning during the exhale when his phone’s text notification went off again.

With every intention of just silencing his phone for good, Midoriya only glanced at Iida’s new text. But after seeing Uraraka’s name, Midoriya tensed up. Her texts suddenly stopped in the middle of her consistent well-meaning pestering, and Midoriya would be lying if he claimed he wasn’t worried about her. Expecting the worst, Midoriya unlocked his phone to read the text message.

Iida-kun: IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ! Uraraka-kun is heading toward your room. If you are not decent, I suggest you remedy that situation. She does not look like she will knock.

Midoriya’s relief in knowing his gravity controlling friend was okay was short lived when the situation dawned on him. He could brush off most people’s concern, but Uraraka had a way of squeezing the truth out of him whether he was ready for it or not. He closed his books, set them aside, and jumped off his bed.

Before he could truly contemplate his options, he heard Uraraka’s voice from the other side of the door announce, “Hope you’re decent ‘cuz I’m coming in!”

True to her word, Uraraka came in immediately after with a familiar All Might mug in her left hand and her holographic mug floating behind her. “Figured it was a good time to return this,” she cheerfully stated while lifting the mug in her hand, “and I made us hot chocolate because I’m awesome like that. There weren’t any marshmallows in the kitchen, but I figured you would have some stashed in here somewhere.”

She winked, and despite himself, Midoriya felt his spirits lift a little, a smirk tugging at his lips. Uraraka’s face looked tense for a moment before she moved closer to Midoriya, making sure his mug was in perfect smelling range. The boy barely noticed the behavior, though, but he definitely noticed the aroma of hot chocolate. He hadn’t realize he was craving hot chocolate until that moment.

“Are you sure you didn’t just come here for my marshmallows?”

“I’d be lying if I said that didn’t factor into my reasoning.” Uraraka chuckled briefly as she handed Deku his mug. “So where is it, Deku-kun? Where did you hide them? Are they still in the same place?”

“Under my bed in the big yellow bin instead of the blue one,” Midoriya replied before taking a sip of his marshmallow-less hot chocolate. “The blue one broke, so I had to transfer my food items to the yellow one. And, I don’t hide or hoard marshmallows!” While he halfheartedly defended himself and Uraraka searched for the marshmallows, Midoriya poked her mug that was still floating near his head. He hit the P in PRO, and the mug spun for a few seconds before stopping. “I just buy them and forget to use them.”

“You are still hiding them away even if you forgot about them.” Midoriya poked the mug again, this time in the A of MATERIAL, and it tilted slightly to the left before returning to the same position. The green haired boy was amused.

“I give my marshmallows to whoever wants them for free!”

“Yeah, if they know you have them! Which I am not complaining about, mind you, since that means it’s a rare day that I miss out on marshmallows in my hot chocolate. Plus there are a few students who should forever lack marshmallows in their hot chocolate.” She huffed. “Unless we can’t find them. We’ll have to navigate the torturous curriculum at UA without marshmallows in our hot chocolate for all eternity. We will eventually die, unsatisfied!” She tilted back with her hand on your forehead in a dramatic gesture, paused again, and then looked at Midoriya. “But seriously, where are your marshmallows, Deku-kun? Are you sure they’re in this bin?”

“Yep,” Midoriya replied, popping the p. Uraraka sighed and continued her search. As Uraraka was reaching the bottom of the bin, Midoriya poked her floating mug again, this time on the H in HERO. It barely moved this time. He asked, “Do you feel where these things are?”

Uraraka paused for a moment. “What things?”

“The things you make float.”

There was only a moment more of rustling and then Uraraka exclaimed, “A-hah!” Having found an opened bag of mini marshmallows closed with an All Might bag clip, she jumped in the air with the bag before unclipping it. She dropped a few marshmallows in her mug and Midoriya’s before replying. “Depends.”

She jumped on Midoriya’s bed and pushed the rest of his homework to the side before patting the spot next to her. Midoriya joined her with curiosity in his eyes.

“If I’m actually trying to keep the object contained somewhere or at the same altitude, I do. For example, I felt you poking my mug a few times.” She gave him a playful ‘look,’ “But that was because I was actively trying to keep it in the same spot despite multiple forces wanting otherwise. I didn’t want it to spill, so I needed to make sure it wouldn’t tilt either, which is something I don’t often have to worry about. But anything I only removed or altered the gravity for, I don’t feel after. That’s more of a one and done deal.”

“Huh, I guess that makes sense.” Midoriya sighed in contentment when he sipped from his marshmallow filled hot chocolate before continuing. “Would you be able to affect the gravity of those same objects even if you did not contain them? I’m assuming you were containing the debris during the Sports Festival.”

“I did, but it’s a little more complicated than that.” A strange look Midoriya could not place crossed Uraraka’s face. ”Well, actually I have a decent hypothetical situation…” Nevermind. Midoriya did recognize that look. She calls it her salty look, and the young boy could only cringe imagining what she was probably going to say.

“If I remove gravity on your phone outside, there will be a moment it is too far out of my reach to bring it back down. However,” She gave Midoriya a pointed look, “since you seem to like ignoring your friend’s texts and ignoring your problems, a lost phone shouldn’t be a big deal.” Midoriya laughed nervously, scratching his head and lowered his gaze to the side. “But I would be able to bring it down easily if we were inside a building and the ceiling was stopping it from floating out of reach.”

“I’m sorry, Urakaka-chan.”

“I know,” she sighed and took a sip of her hot chocolate. “The marshmallows are part one of your apology.”

A smile creeped onto Midoriya’s face and he finally moved his gaze from the floor to Urakaka. “And what about part two?”

Now it was Urakaka’s turn to smile. “That smile,” Midoriya chuckled and she stared straight into Midoriya’s eyes, “and the truth.” Midoriya sighed. “You definitely weren’t okay when you left that classroom, Midoriya-kun. You were crying!”

Midoriya winced. “I was hoping none of you saw that.”

“We did, and it’s unlikely that you are actually okay right now. Be honest with me. How are you?”

“Any chance you’ll believe me if I say I’m fine?”

“No.”

Midoriya sighed for what felt like the hundredth time that day, and placed his nearly empty mug on the desk next to his bed. He took a deep breathe before shifting so he was facing Uraraka. “Honestly, I’m doing better.” Uraraka leaned forward, trying to chastise Midoriya for what seemed to be a lie, but he cut her off, “Not great! I’m not saying everything is fine. I’m still a little shaken up and honestly hurt, but I’m better .”

The gravity controlling girl leaned back, satisfied, and settled in her seat on the bed again, sipping slowly from the mug. Midoriya scratched his head and brought his gaze toward the wall. “I’m assuming you were the one to tell V-chan about what happened, right?” Uraraka nodded her head in confusion. “She texted me. We had a brief chat, but it was helpful. It helped calm me down a little, too.”

“But not entirely.”

“No.” Midoriya mumbled before continuing. “Ka-chan and I have a lot of history together, and if I was being completely honest, not very good history. This is not the first time he told me to kill myself.” Uraraka bristled. “But V helped me through that. V helped me through a lot, actually. She’s always been there even when I thought I didn’t need her.”

Midoriya paused and exhaled. He missed the conflicted facial expression Uraraka sported on her face. “She’s my best friend, and for a really long time,” Midoriya’s voice was trembling, “she was my only friend.” A few tears rolled down Midoriya’s cheek. “S-so she’s important to me, and I-I’m protective of her. And if Kacchan just told me to kill myself, it would have hurt, but I probably could have ignored it, like I do with most things he says. But him saying V should die,” despite a few more tears escaping, Midoriya glared at the wall and clenched his hands into fist, “I couldn’t ignore that. Just the idea that V wouldn’t be around is painful, and the idea that she’d want to be dead was-- is-- just--...” Midoriya took a deep breath before continuing. “I didn’t like it. So I punched Kacchan before he could say anymore. I wasn’t even thinking about the consequences I just wanted him to stop and leave as quickly as possible.”

A look of surprise appeared on the green haired boy’s face. “Oh no.” Midoriya moaned, and he curled up with his face in his hands. Grumbling from behind his fingers and knees, he muttered “I punched Kacchan. Fuck.”

Uraraka couldn’t help but laugh. “Deku-kun! Did you honestly just realize you punched Bakugou?”

“I knew!” he whined, “but I am just realizing what that means for the next time I see him!”

Grabbing both of Midoriya’s hands, she gently moved them away from his face while replying. “Don’t worry about that for now. I have your back, and I’m sure Iida and Todoroki do, too. Right now, we are worrying about this moment. Bakugou isn’t here. You have confirmation that V is very much alive. How are you feeling?”

“Guilty,” he murmured while staring at his still fisted hands in Uraraka’s.

Uraraka furrowed her eyebrows, “Guilty? Why?”

Midoriya unfurled his hands. “I’ve always felt like I am a burden to the people I care about--”

“Deku-ku--” Midoriya talked over his friend’s interruption.

“-- and I know that’s not true. That doesn’t stop me from feeling it. And like I said before, V helped me through so much. I was able to open up to her in a way I still struggle to do with people in person. Out of everyone here, you are the one who is the best at squeezing the truth out of me,” Uraraka had a small smile, “but V was there for the worst. I owe her so much, and she always says that I am there for her, too-- that I was there for her worst, too, but I always feel like I’m an inferior friend, like I could be trying more, doing more, being better.” Midoriya sniffled and removed one of his hands from Uraraka’s to wipe his still wet face.

“Deku-kun. I’m sure V is telling the truth about you being there for her. You are a good person and a great friend! But,” she furrowed her eyebrows again, “I still don’t understand why you are feeling guilty right now.”

“I didn’t punch Kacchan for V. I punched Kacchan because I wanted him to stop.” Uraraka was even more confused. “V couldn’t hear him. V wasn’t there to hear him, and I wasn’t planning on telling her.” Uraraka barely concealed an “oops” underneath her breathe. “I still feel like I should have defended her. I still feel like I should have said all the comebacks V and I rehearsed on the worst days. But instead, I punched him, stumbled through my words, and ran away.”

“Deku-kun, V doesn’t sound like a person who wants you to defend her.”

“She isn’t.”

“Then you don’t need to feel guilty about defending yourself. That doesn’t mean you won’t feel bad. Because that’s not how emotions work, like you said, but you don’t have to, Deku-kun. You are a good friend. You did what you needed to do for yourself. Actually, wait, has V ever told you to defend yourself against Bakugou?”

Now Midoriya looked confused, “Um...yes?”

“Then you did what she wanted! I’m sure she’s proud of you. Angry for you, I’m sure, but proud, too.”

Midoriya came to a realization. “You didn’t tell her I punched him, did you…”

“Nope. It didn’t come up. I was vague until she pressed for details. What Bakugou said was told in detail and you leaving in tears was mentioned. I said you made him stop, but I never specified how.”

Midoriya laughed. “I was wondering why V didn’t say anything about Kacchan deserving a worse beating or suggesting a different contact area.”

“Contact area?” Uraraka asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Like kicking him in his…” Midoriya vaguely gestured to his lower torso and hip area.

“Oh!” She smirked. “That’s not a bad idea actually.”

“Uraraka-chan!” They both laughed this time.

“How are you feeling now, Deku-kun?” She was smiling.

“Would you believe me this time if I said a lot better? Maybe even okay?” Midoriya face wore a playful smirk.

“Yeah. I probably would.” Finishing her mug, Uraraka held out her hand, “I will take my spoon back, sir!”

“Damn!” he joked before handing Uraraka the spoon from the All Might mug. “And here I was planning on keeping it!”

“It’s still really weird to hear you curse. You’re supposed to be the pure one, Deku-kun! Iida is the proper one, but you’re supposed to be the one that’s too pure for this world.”

A full body laugh overcame Midoriya’s body. “I have no idea why you’d think that, but I’m sure V has plenty of stories to disprove it! And she’ll probably tell you even if I beg her not to.” Midoriya took a deep breathe. “Why did I introduce you all to her again?”

“Because you are a good friend!” Uraraka laughed even harder when Midoriya groaned.      

Uraraka’s visit was actually very nice and productive. His mood significantly improved, and after some light hearted banter, she actually helped him finish the homework he was struggling with. Everything due tomorrow was finished now, but there were still a few large projects he needed to start working on.

Rather than overworking himself, which Uraraka demanded he avoid, Midoriya decided to take a break. After changing into his comfier All Might pajamas, he decided to head out of his rooms and toward the kitchen. Midoriya needed to clean his All Might mug, and he kept smelling something really tasty from his room, so this was the best excuse to investigate. Remembering to roll up his too long fuzzy pants with All Mights smiling face plastered all over them, he exited his room.

Today 19:32

Chat: DekuSquad

Froppy: Have any of you checked in on Midoriya-chan yet?

Shouto: Unfortunately, no.

Ingenium: Last I checked Uraraka-kun went to go see him.

Uravity: Just saw him

Uravity: He is doing better than he was before :D

Shouto: “Better” does not imply that he is okay.

Froppy: Considering, he left the classroom crying, I do not think that he will be okay in only a couple of hours.

Ingenium: Very true Asui-san!

Ingenium: Were you about to find out why he was so upset Uraraka-kun?

Uravity: Well…

Uravity: You know how Bakugou and Deku-kun have a bit of a past?

Froppy: I think that “a bit” is an understatement Ochako-chan.

Uravity: I’m trying to figure out how to word this!

Shouto: I have a feeling I’m not going to like what I’m about to hear…

Uravity: None of you will

Uravity: Imma just do this bluntly

Uravity: This isn’t the first time that Bakugou has told Deku-kun to go kill himself and all the other times, V has been the one to talk him down

Uravity: V was his only friend at one point

Uravity: so he didn’t take to well to Bakugou telling him that V should die too....

Shouto: Excuse me for a moment, while I go teach Bakugou what it feels like to be on fire.

Froppy: I would not suggest doing that Todoroki-chan

Ingenium: We do not harm our fellow students Todoroki! No matter how misguided they may be!

Froppy: A better idea would be to go talk to Midoriya-chan

Uravity: That is a great idea Tsu-chan!

Uravity: After all, Deku-kun considers Todoroki-kun a good friend :D

Shouto: That’s a good idea. I’ll do that now.

Shouto has left the chat

Froppy: …”friend”...

Uravity: ?????????

Todoroki was finishing his last rep of push-ups in his room when his phone announced Asui’s first text message. He huffed in annoyance when he realized the time.

Midoriya was on his mind ever since the confrontation with Bakugou… well, more on his mind, anyway. Todoroki was worried about him, and even though Todoroki knew they were friends, he hadn’t visited Midoriya’s room.

He stopped Bakugou from following Midoriya once the explosive teen came out of shock, and Todoroki spent more time in the common room and kitchen than normal hoping Midoriya would walk in, but he felt odd walking down the hall and knocking on his door. Todoroki felt like he would be intruding. He felt like he’d make it worse.

Honestly, he was scared that he would fail Midoriya. The shorter boy helped Todoroki heal from recent and past trauma, fought by his side countless times, and, if he was honest, taught him how to trust again. Todoroki had returned the favor however-- and whenever-- he could, but the dual-quirked boy knew his social skills were awkward at best, and the situation needed a more subtle approach.

It was clear to Todoroki that the incident with Bakugou earlier that day was fraught with history. Midoriya confided in Todoroki about many problems and situations he was currently facing, but it was rare for Midoriya to confide in Todoroki about his past. Todoroki wanted to help, but he didn’t know how to get Midoriya to open up about this, and he didn’t want to push him.

The current situation seemed more suited for someone like Uraraka, even though that admission gave him pain in his chest. If Midoriya came to Todoroki, the green haired boy would be more willing to open up, and there would be less ways for Todoroki to mess up. Plus, it would mean that he trusted Todoroki with this. So he waited, and he hoped.

His classmates came in and out at random moments, but Todoroki paid attention when he heard “Deku-kun” mentioned. Looking up, he saw Uraraka with two steaming mugs speaking to Iida. She was going to Midoriya’s room, apparently. He sighed in both relief and disappointment. At least someone was going to talk to him. He hoped she’d get to the bottom of this.

When Todoroki finished his homework, Asui stopped him to confirm Midoriya’s favorite cookies which seemed like a silly question to Todoroki. It was obviously chocolate chip cookies. Before leaving, he asked her to save some for Todoroki if she got the chance and grabbed two bottles of water. Then he went back to his room so he could start burning off some of his worry through training exercises.

He read and wrote in the “Dekusquad” chat with his right hand as he tried to drink from one of the bottled water that he grabbed from the kitchen earlier. That water bottle began to melt and fell to the floor once Uraraka finished explaining the situation. He had every intention of confronting Bakugou at that very moment, even had the water evaporated and the bottle chucked, when Asui suggested visiting Midoriya instead.

Armed with vague knowledge of Midoriya’s past, and a grave need to do something about this, he grabbed his keys and left his room. He briefly thought about changing his clothes, but decided against it. It would take up time, and Midoriya had seen him in worse. Plus, Todoroki doubted a little sweat would bother his friend.

Cookies. Asui made cookies. The green haired boy’s stomach growled in longing.

“Ah, Midoriya-chan! I made some chocolate chip cookies, and I have a lot of extras. They’re your favorite, right?”

Midoriya couldn’t help but sniff the air and smile before giving a noise of affirmation. Asui smiled.

“Great! I hope you enjoy them, Midoriya-chan. I know someone else likes chocolate chip cookies, but I couldn’t remember who. Do you know?”

“Todoroki-kun!” exclaimed Midoriya, immediately blushing a rosy pink. “He ate that entire tray during the movie night last year! He likes his cookies cold, though. I’ll put some in the fridge right now.”

Asui’s smile grew before stating, “I didn’t actually know that about Todoroki-chan! You know so much about him!” She collected her cooking supplies and her separate plate of cookies as she continued, “I need to finish my homework, so I’m going to my room. Tell Todoroki-chan I say hi!”

“Sure! Good luck!” Midoriya didn’t fully process Asui’s comment until she was out of the room, and Midoriya already put half of the cookies in the fridge. “Wait, what? When--”

“Oh, Midoriya! I was just looking for you!”

Midoriya’s face was burning up when he turned around, but his face turned a deeper shade of red when he saw what Todoroki was wearing.

If the sweat was anything to go by, Todoroki recently worked out. The white shirt he was wearing was soaked in it, almost making the shirt translucent, inadvertently displaying his well defined chest. On top of that, his grey heathered exercise pants with the black lining were better described as leggings than pants. They hugged his rear very nicely, and the piping highlighted his nice legs. Midoriya choked on his own spit.

“To-todoroki-kun! Hi! There-- cookies-- fridge-- in-- uh. Yeah.” Throughout Midoriya’s stuttering, Todoroki’s face broke out into a sideway smile, and when Midoriya noticed, he started coughing.

“Are you okay, Midoriya?”

“Ye-yeah! Of course, Todoroki-kun! There are cookies in the fridge!”

Asui caught him leaving his room, and she informed him that Midoriya was in the kitchen and that the cookies were done. Todoroki had arrived at the entryway more than a few seconds ago, but he was having trouble announcing his presence or entering the kitchen.

There was Midoriya. In fluffy All Might pajama pants. And a slightly baggy yellow shirt with “It’s fine now. Why?” on the front and “BECAUSE I AM HERE!” on the back, both with red and black lettering. He had a cookie hanging from his mouth. His hair was in a little disarray. He was just...cute. So cute. And Todoroki kept staring, trying his best to get himself together enough to talk. Midoriya swallowed the last of the cookie, and Todoroki still hadn’t moved a muscle.

Todoroki’s brain seemed to get back online when Midoriya unexpectedly jerked back before saying “Wait, what? When--” and then Todoroki stepped into the room and finally spoke.

His brain was working, but still lagging behind, slowed down in the face of Midoriya’s cute outfit, his adorable stuttering, and his general aura. Todoroki could tell there was a smile on his face, but he couldn’t care less. He was still processing both the image before him and the words trying to come out of his friend, when Midoriya’s coughing fit startled Todoroki back into the moment.

“Are you okay, Midoriya?”

“Ye-yeah! Of course, Todoroki-kun! There are cookies in the fridge!”

“Oh,” Todoroki said while approaching Midoriya and the fridge, “are they the ones Asui was making earlier?”

“Y-yes!” Midoriya nodded his head quickly, moving aside. “They’re chocolate chip!”

Todoroki smirked. It was a small smirk, but a smirk nonetheless. “I figured. She asked me which was your favorite.”

“She did!?” Midoriya exclaimed, eyes wide and blush intensifying. He scratched his head while whining “Asui-san...”

“She wanted to do something nice for you, I’m sure,” Todoroki explained, grabbing one cookie for himself. “She was worried about you, too.”

“I guess that makes sense,” Midoriya muttered to himself. “She still didn’t have to.”

“But she wanted to.” Todoroki bit into his cookie while waiting for Midoriya to stop staring at the floor and/or reply. A few bites later, Todoroki broke the ice, “How are you, by the way?”

Midoriya groaned, which immediately put Todoroki on edge, but once the sound became more dramatic than strictly necessary (hands waving and Midoriya’s body “falling” into the kitchen counter), Todoroki realized he didn’t do anything wrong. “Todoroki-kun,” Midoriya whined, “not you, too!”

Todoroki scrunched his eyebrows together in confusion. “I can’t be concerned about someone I care about?” Midoriya was blushing again which confused Todoroki even more.

“O-of course you can! It’s just that I figured Uraraka would tell everyone the news: I’m okay!” Midoriya made an unenthusiastic waving gesture in the air. “Hooray.”

“Midoriya,” Todoroki’s tone was serious, “Uraraka did mention that you were better, but we all know you weren’t fine. She also mentioned vaguely why you were so upset.” Todoroki paused when Midoriya cringed at the mention. Todoroki sighed, finished the rest of his cookie, and grabbed Midoriya’s shoulders. “What Bakugou did-- both today and before-- was not okay. It was never okay. Do you understand?”

“Todoroki-kun--”

“I understand that V is important to you, and I’m glad she was there for you-- not only for your sake, but also so that we could meet.” Midoriya tried to start a sentence but it kept coming out as random stuttering sounds. Todoroki squeezed his shoulder. “You are a good person, Midoriya. You always deserved friends. You had V and now you have all of us.” Todoroki made sure to look straight into Midoriya’s eyes for his next sentence, “We all care about you deeply, and we want to help you whenever you need it, okay? You just need to let us in every once in a while.”

Wide-eyed, red, and slightly shaking, Midoriya answered with a stuttering, “O-okay.”

“Good.” Todoroki let go of Midoriya shoulders, the latter sighing in either relief or disappointment. Todoroki couldn’t tell, but he was hoping the second. Todoroki still didn’t touch people often, and he certainly didn’t like people touching him-- Midoriya being the exception. It would be heartbreaking if he lost those moments of physical affection.

Midoriya grabbed another cookie off of the plate on the counter, and he opened the fridge to give Todoroki a cookie as well. They stood side by side for a few moments of awkward silence while they both engaged with their own thoughts. Todoroki was almost convinced he said something wrong and messed everything up when Midoriya broke the tension this time.

“Thank you, Todoroki-kun.” Looking at Midoriya who was looking at his cookie with a smile, Todoroki briefly smiled himself.

“For what?”

"Everything. But especially for understanding about Kacchan, and saying the things you said.”

Todoroki hummed. “Of course.” Thinking about how Midoriya still used the childhood nickname for Bakugou, Todoroki tensed. But then he remembered what V said before.

“By the way,” Todoroki started and waited until Midoriya was looking at him before continuing, wanting to make sure Midoriya understood what he was saying and hoping he would understand the meaning behind it, “You can call me Shou-chan. I’d actually like that, especially if I can call you Izuku, too.”

Todoroki found it unfair how cute Midoriya was even when spluttering.

Today 21:45

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: V!!!!!!!!

Tani: EMERGENCY!!!!!!!!

V: DO I NEED TO KILL ANYONE

Tani: no...just..no…

Tani: BUT HOLY SHIT!!!!!!

Tani: SHOU-CHAN SAID I CAN CALL HIM SHOU-CHAN

Tani: HE ALSO WANTS TO CALL ME IZUKU

Tani: HELP!!!!!

Tani: I CAN’T FUNCTION RN!!!!!!

V: DID MY SUNSHINE CHILD FINALLY CONFESS????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tani: JSDFHDIUHFDNCHSDIFH

Tani: OF COURSE NOT V

Today 21:59

Chat: Class 1-A News

Insomnia Inc: SUCK IT UP AND CONFESS ALREADY DAMNIT

Uravity: WHAT???!!!

Deku: V!!!!!!!!

Insomnia Inc: ...whoops?

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Midoriya’s American Friend Gains An Ally

Today 21:59

Chat: Class 1-A News

Insomnia Inc: SUCK IT UP AND CONFESS ALREADY DAMNIT

Uravity: WHAT???!!!

Deku: V!!!!!!!!

Insomnia Inc: ...whoops?

Uravity: WHOOPS?!

Today 22:07

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: pls dont say it!!!!!!!

V: …

Tani: V!!!!!!!

Today 22:13

Chat: Class 1-A News

Uravity: WHY WHOOPS?!!?!

Insomnia Inc: I was texting Tani about this cop show I was watching and accidently sent it to this chat

Insomnia Inc: srry

Uravity: Oh!

Uravity: gotcha :)

Lord Explosion Murder: NOBODY ACTUALLY GIVES A FUCK

Lord Explosion Murder: I CANT FIGURE OUT HOW TO MUTE THIS DAMN CHAT

Lord Explosion Murder: ITS LATE

Lord Explosion Murder: GO THE FUCK TO SLEEP

Deku: Don’t do it V….

Insomnia Inc: ...u embrace your inner Fury….

Deku: Why am I friends with you?

Lord Explosion Murder: WTF GO AWAY SO I CAN SLEEP!!!!!!!!!

Today 22:45

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: PLS HAVE MERCY V!!!!

Tani: i will do watevr you want for a month

Tani: IF YOU DONT SAY ANYTHING EMBARRASSING TO SHOU-CHAN

Tani: I will even send a vid of me begging in dougeza!!!!!!!

Tani: JUST HAVE MERCY!!!!!!!!!

Today 23:32

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: V….

Today 23:43

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: where u b?

Today

December 2 00:12

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: ….fine….

Today 1:01

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: night

Today

December 2 06:00

Chat: Class 1-A News

Ingenium: Good morning my fellow heroes! Please do not forget that we have a test today!

Chargebolt: y r u awake?????

Ingenium: A good hero is always awake with the sun!

Deku: I am too tired for 6am messages.

Pinky: even Midori!

Insomnia Inc: u should see how he is when he pulls an all nighter

Insomnia: most savage

Deku: V! Stop!

Insomnia Inc: fine

Insomnia Inc: I got stuff to do for class tomorrow anyway ttyl

Today 7:43

Chat: V for Vixen and Gravity Girl

V for Vixen: Are you still good to do the interview tonight?

Gravity Girl: Yep!

Gravity Girl: I’ll be sure to message you as soon as I get done with school!

Midoriya’s emotions were all over the place. The only ones that made sense were his confusion and exhaustion. Everything else was a hot mess. His thoughts, wants, and needs were giving him feelings whiplash.

He wanted to never speak to anyone again, especially V— just curl up in his blankets and surf through the Hero Analysis Forums. But Midoriya also wanted to call Todoroki Shou-chan in front of everyone in person, especially during lunch where he would be able to see the dual-quirked boy’s reaction up close. But that would require being near everyone. And talk to them. And leave his room.

He needed to never speak to V about Todoroki again so she’d have less blackmail, but he also might explode if he didn’t gush to her about Todoroki and his unfairly attractive everything. He definitely needed to beg her to stop dropping hints, though. That was a given.

He also wanted to call Todoroki Shou-chan until he stopped breathing, but he also wanted to avoid him so he could actually function as a human being rather than a blubbering mess. But also, he’d miss him too much. But also, blubbering mess.

This bittersweet frustration was becoming a pattern, and it was all V’s fault. And honestly, what was her excuse for the convenient radio silence anyway?

Today 7:45

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: answer your ever lovin phone V!!!!!!!

Tani: I WILL call your ass!

V: wat?

V: I’m ZZZZ

Tani: thats BS and you know it

Tani: u dont need to f-in sleep

Tani: im a pile of mush on the floor cuz Shou-chan *exists*

Tani: and cuz you let him FIND OUT I CALL HIM SHOU-CHAN

Tani: AND U R “SLEEPING”????!!!!!!

V: ...yes?

Tani: HFOHSDFHDKBCKJNSOHFEIUH

Todoroki was frustrated and honestly disappointed.

Before Midoriya got to class, what Asui had officially nicknamed the Dekusquad-- Iida, Uraraka, Todoroki, and herself-- had confronted Bakugou. The interaction was, at the time, surprisingly uneventful. (Apparently Kirishima finished talking with Bakugou barely a few minutes prior. He was the only one that can ever calm the explosive teen. Kirishima may not always be successful, but he at least had a chance which was more than any of his other classmates had.)

Bakugou agreed to leave Midoriya alone-- “but only for today. That little shit is bound to piss me off tomorrow.” Even after he agreed, Todoroki still wanted to set Bakugou on fire. But Asui stopped him with a hand on his arm and a shake of her head. The touch startled him. Bakugou returned to his seat unburned, but that didn’t mean Todoroki didn’t imagine the blonde screaming in pain, skin melting off, and eyes filled with remorse.

And with the main source of tension temporarily subdued, Todoroki expected the morning class to be pleasant. He expected Midoriya to call him Shou-chan in person, and Todoroki hoped to chat with him before class. Todoroki expected to frequently glance-- (Todoroki does not stare) at a smiling Midoriya.

He did not expect this.

Todoroki tried to get his attention all morning. The boy didn’t react when Todoroki called him Izuku when he came in or in between classes. And all of the boy’s responses were short, and not Shou-chan, or non-existent, and not Shou-chan. To be fair, Midoriya hadn’t called him Todoroki, either, but Todoroki felt let down. Half of the school day was already gone, and Todoroki could count on two hands the number of words Midoriya spoke to him, and none of the words were Todoroki-kun or Shou-chan . Todoroki was not happy.

Plus as a friend, he was also worried. Midoriya seemed to be preoccupied all day. Todoroki was not the only person trying to get his attention throughout the day either. Iida barely got a single reply, and even the teachers heard little or no response from Midoriya. Unfortunately, that meant the green haired boy received some chastising as well.

More concerning was the jittery boy’s escalation from an occasional tapping foot to a full on bouncing leg and tapping pen minutes before lunch. Plus, the strength enhancing boy kept glancing at his phone-- not typing-- just staring-- more frequently than he did all morning.

Something was going on. Todoroki could tell Midoriya was trying to hide something, and normally he would let Midoriya alone until Midoriya came to him. But after what seemed like a successful talk the night before, and Todoroki’s increasing irritation, Todoroki decided to change his approach. As soon as they were dismissed from class, Todoroki quickly packed up and rushed to Midoriya’s desk.

“Izuku?” Todoroki ignored the shocked looks some of his classmates gave him. Unfortunately, Midoriya was also muttering to himself and to his locked phone, meaning he was ignoring their classmates and Todoroki.

Iida and Uraraka saw the exchange. Uraraka caught Todoroki’s gaze, the frowning gravity controlling girl gesturing between Midoriya and the door. Todoroki shrugged and glanced at Midoriya again.  “Izuku,” Todoroki called a little louder and closer to Midoriya. Still no response from the boy. The muttering seemed to get more intense, though. Todoroki huffed again, and then he waved his hand at Iida and Uraraka in a dismissive manner, indicating they could leave without them. Neither Iida or Uraraka seemed sure, but they left shortly after.

Only moments after the two left, Midoriya’s phone lit up, and Midoriya started texting. Todoroki moved straight in front of Midoriya’s desk before asking “Izuku, is that Uraraka-san you’re texting?”

Today 12:14

Chat: V for Vixen and Gravity Girl

V for Vixen: Thanks for doing this again

Gravity Girl: like I said before

Gravity Girl: anything for a friend of Deku’s

V for Vixen: yeah... “deku”....

V for Vixen: lets talk about that shall we….

Gravity Girl: ?????

Today 12:15

Chat: Tani and V

V: boi u know what u need to do?

V: tell him you want to marry him already!!!!!

Tani: YEAH, NO!!!!

V: if he doesnt luv u already then i will eat my left shoe

V: tell him already damn it!

Tani: ITS NOT THAT EASY!!!!!

Again, Todoroki received no reply from the other boy, but Midoriya typed faster, and his face was scrunched up in frustration.

Todoroki observed the boy still mumbling even after he stopped typing. Sighing, Todoroki decided to take the risk. The dual-quirked boy squeezed Midoriya’s shoulder, and exclaimed a little louder than before, “Midoriya! It’s time for lunch.”

Startled, Midoriya squeaked and flailed, dropping his phone onto the floor. Midoriya tried bending down to pick up his phone, now dark, but before Midoriya could grab it, Todoroki was picking it up and repeating himself. “Midoriya. It’s--”

“Oh! To-” Todoroki must have cringed because the green haired boy went wide-eyed and restarted. “Sh-shou-chan.” Finally . Todoroki sighed in relief. He felt his lips rising up as he handed the phone back to the other boy. Midoriya took the phone and clutched it to his chest. “I-I’m sorry. What were you saying?”

“It’s time for lunch.”

“O-oh!” Midoriya looked around the room. “Oh,” the shorter boy groaned. “Everyone left already.”

“Yeah.” There was an awkward silence for a few moments. “Are you okay?”

“Wha-what?!” Midoriya squealed, almost dropping his phone again. “Yes, To-- Shou-chan. I’m just preoccupied.”

Todoroki scrunched up his face in concern and a little confusion. “About what?”

Midoriya laughed nervously. “Nothing.” Todoroki was not convinced, and after seeing Todoroki’s expression, Midoriya continued, “Nothing you need to worry about, anyway.”

Todoroki was about to respond when Midoriya suddenly stood up and started packing up. “You must be hungry.” Midoriya looked everywhere except at Todoroki. “I just realized I’m starving.” He laughed nervously again, scratching his head. “Weird how you can get so hungry just sitting down in class. I know Yaoyorozu-chan explained it to me once, but I keep forgetting what she said.”

“Izuku--” Midoriya muttered right over Todoroki’s interruption and started speed walking out of the classroom.

“I think it was something about involuntary functions using energy? Or was it about caloric intake? Or something else entirely?” Once again, Todoroki tried to get his attention with an “Izuku” only to be talked over again, seemingly talking faster. Midoriya’s prior walking pace was one Todoroki could easily match, but his new quicker pace wasn’t as easily maintained. Todoroki frowned. “I guess I’ll just have to ask her again. We really should learn more about that in biology, though-- especially since I assume some quirks burn up more calories than others. And--” Midoriya’s next sentences were muttered too low and too quickly to be intelligible.

Todoroki’s frown deepened, stopping before calling out loudly, “Midoriya.”

The green haired boy stopped, already a few feet ahead of Todoroki, and jerked his head to see his friend behind him. His face was turning red, and he started scratching his head again before fulling turning toward the red and white haired boy. “Ah, sorry. I was mumbling again wasn’t I?” Midoriya’s fake smile disappeared when he noticed Todoroki’s face. “Todo--”

“I don’t have to call you Izuku if you don’t want me to.”

“What?” Midoriya asked, dumbfounded, staring at the red and white haired boy who was avoiding his gaze.

“You seem uncomfortable.” “What do you--” Todoroki interrupted Midoriya before he could finish his question, his frown reaching his eyes this time. He looked to the side rather than at Midoriya. “I’ve tried to talk to you all day, but you never answered when I called you Izuku. You’ve only answered me when I called you Midoriya. And every time I called you Izuku, you seemed to get more uncomfortable.”

“I don’t know wha--”

“I know your tells, Midoriya. You were visibly more frustrated when you were typing on the phone, and you started muttering faster and lower when you were talking moments ago. You can’t honestly tell me you’re comfortable right now.”

“You’re right. I’m not.” Todoroki visibly deflated, his slumped shoulders barely able to keep his backpack on. “But not because of you!” Todoroki glanced back up at the bright red boy waving his hands back and forth. Small hope returned to Todoroki’s eyes. “Not because of the name thing! Like I said, I was worrying about something else, and since I rarely hear my first name nowadays, it probably just sounded like white noise to me.” Midoriya flinched. “That sounded bad. What I meant to say is--”

“I think I get the idea,” Todoroki paused, “Izuku.” Midoriya and Todoroki wore matching smiles and blushes. “So, just to be clear, you are actually okay with me calling you Izuku.” Todoroki tried to make a very serious facial expression. “I’m not pressuring you or something.”

“Nope! No way!” Midoriya confirmed, shaking his head and his hands. He tried to make a very serious face, but the upturn of his lips ruined the image. “No coercion. Complete consent.” Midoriya tried to salute Todoroki but one of his fingers got caught in Midoriya’s heavily disheveled hair. Apparently all of the hair scratching he did today created a few more knots than usual in his curly hair.

Before they even attempted to remove his finger, the two boys burst out laughing. Todoroki untangled some of the curls while both the boys were calming down, occasionally chuckling again.

“Done.” Todoroki glanced down at Midoriya, startled by how close they now were. Apparently the space between them dwindled as Midoriya’s finger and hair were freed. Todoroki’s face felt like it was on fire, and his thoughts were cycling through different ways to complain about how cute Midoriya was. In particular, his mind kept returning to the splatter of freckles on Midoriya’s face and how they looked like flecks of glitter, or scattered stars, or holes for Midoriya’s sunshine to leak through. Afterall, he is made of sunshine, rainbows, and everything good. And Todoroki’s felt like he suddenly had a serious risk of heatstroke due to long exposure to Midoriya’s cuteness up close.

“Sho-shou-chan.” Midoriya’s face was red again, highlighting the freckles Todoroki was just admiring. “Ah, yes, Mido-Izuku?”

A playful smirk took over Midoriya’s face, and Todoroki felt his heart leap. “I’m not pressuring you or something, either, right?”

Todoroki’s throat stopped working, so he just nodded. Midoriya laughed which made Todoroki’s heart beat like crazy. “Food,” stumbled out of Todoroki’s mouth before stepping away from Midoriya, “we need to get food.” Stepping away from Midoriya allowed Todoroki to regain his thinking and speaking functions, but he immediately felt a sense of loss.

Despite that feeling, Todoroki couldn’t help but smile.

“Would you like to lead the way, Shou-chan?” Todoroki’s heart protested against it’s unexpected work-out.

“I’d be honored to, Izuku,” Todoroki jokingly said while bowing as if to royalty.

Midoriya hit Todoroki’s shoulder with no force behind it, laughing as he exclaimed, ‘“Shou-chan!”

They exchanged easy conversation on their way to the cafeteria with Midoriya supplying most of the dialogue and Todoroki listening with full attention.

Todoroki laughed, and smiled, and told his heart to suck it up. It’ll need to work overtime around Midoriya, but time with the green-haired boy was worth it. Midoriya was always worth it.

Midoriya’s text notification didn’t sound again until they got to the cafeteria.

Today 12:28

Chat: Tani and V

V: it is easy

Tani: ITS NOT

V: yea it is

V: “i love u”

V: “and i would have your babies if i could”

V: c? easy?

Tani: HDJFHKDDHEWIFHKJDNKCJBU

Today 12: 27

Chat: V for Vixen and Gravity Girl

V for Vixen: Don’t call him that.

Gravity Girl: wat?

V for Vixen: Don’t call Tani “deku”

Today 12:31

Chat: Tani and V

V: but seriously Tani

V: just tell him

V: the worst he can say is “no”

Midoriya lifted his gaze from his phone to glance at Todoroki.

Todoroki hadn’t tried to pry further into the shorter boy’s text conversations after getting their food. The dual-quirked boy simply sat next to him, his chair close enough to Midoriya’s that their shoulders were touching. He was in the middle of starting a conversation when Midoriya’s phone lit up for the first time since exiting the classroom.

Todoroki stared at it for a moment before nodding and getting settled into his seat again. “You should probably answer that.”

Midoriya slowly nodded back, taken aback at Todoroki’s response. The shorter boy expected Todoroki to ask who was texting Midoriya or at least try to interrupt in some small way. Looking back, Midoriya realized he was silly. It’s not like Todoroki to meddle in other people’s business, the taller boy being a private person himself. It still caught Midoriya off guard, especially when the strength-augmenting teen heard Todoroki humming sporadically throughout lunch.

It was almost peaceful. The only thing ruining the moment was V and Midoriya’s subject matter and, although not unpleasant, Todoroki accidently rubbing Midoriya’s arm and shoulder whenever he lifted his chopsticks to his mouth. Again, that last one wasn’t unpleasant, it just made the teen hyper aware of Todoroki’s proximity and Midoriya’s rapidly darkening blush.

For a moment, Midoriya considered acting on V’s advice. Todoroki was a kind person despite the cold persona he still defaulted to in front of strangers. He wouldn’t laugh at Midoriya’s feelings, unlike his fellow classmates in middle school, nor would he take advantage of his feelings to advance his academic career. Midoriya opened his mouth.

As if he sensed Midoriya’s intentions, Todoroki stopped eating his cold soba and turned to Midoriya. A very small, but still noticeable to Midoriya, smile came across Todoroki’s face. His heterochromia eyes seemed to sparkle.

“Ah, Izuku!” Midoriya’s heart did a cartwheel. “Are you finished with your conversation?”

Midoriya blinked, and dozens of more likely possibilities flashed before his eyes-- Todoroki dating him out of pity. Todoroki dating him because he was confusing friendship with romantic feelings. Todoroki and Midoriya drifting apart because Todoroki didn’t know how to properly express his discomfort with Midoriya’s feelings. That last situation sprouted many more outcomes where he loses Todoroki, and Midoriya felt all of the color leaving his face. “A-ah. No. Not quite.”

Todoroki scrunched his nose up in confusion. “You’re pale. Is something wrong?” He tilted his head to the side in confusion which didn’t help Midoriya’s heart one bit, although it did return some color to his face for different reasons. Todoroki reached out his hand as if to touch Midoriya’s face. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

“N-no!” Midoriya started waving his hands, forgetting his phone was still in his hand. He barely caught it before the phone could hit the corner of the table. Todoroki’s hand paused. “I’m okay. Tha-thank you for asking, though!”

“Okay.” Todoroki didn’t seem convinced, but his hand returned to the chopsticks in his hand. “I’m here if you need me, though, okay?”

The blushing boy nodded his head before returning his attention to his phone. Midoriya’s gaze rapidly changed from Todoroki’s face to his phone for a few more seconds before answering the text.

Today 12:37

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: can u just let it go for now?

V: …

Today 12:32

Chat: V for Vixen and Gravity Girl

Gravity Girl: y?

Gravity Girl: Deku said he was cool with it?????

V for Vixen: that’s cuz that idiot won’t tell people when he’s not comfortable with something

V for Vixen: Deku told me why he is “okay” with you calling him “deku”

V for Vixen: but now it’s time for “Storytime with V”

Gravity Girl: ...okay…

Today 12:38

Chat: Tani and V

V: fine…

V: ill let it go

V: (for now)

Tani: ...ill take what i can get…

V: BUT

Tani: oh no

Today 12:37

Chat: V for Vixen and Gravity Girl

V for Vixen: as you know, “deku” comes from the fact that the “Izu” in Izuku can be read as “De”

V for Vixen: with different kanji it can mean “wooden figure”

V for Vixen: Which is also used as a way to call someone useless

V for Vixen: u follow so far?

Gravity Girl: yes…

V for Vixen: he’s been called that since elementary school

V for Vixen: and let’s make one thing very clear Uraraka Ochako

Gravity Girl: the full name thing scares me

V for Vixen: I’m only telling you this cuz Tani has made it pretty clear that he trusts you

Today 12:40

Chat: Tani and V

V: That will not stop me from finding out if he likes you

Tani: Pls to god no

Tani: Shou-chan is not stupid

Tani: he’ll figure out why ur asking weird q’s

Tani: and then he'd feel uncomfortable

Tani: then we won't spar together

Tani: then we won't do homework together

Tani: then we won't text

Tani: then we won't hang out at all

Tani: then he’ll never talk to me again

Tani: then I'll completely lose him

Tani: and then I'll have to transfer

Tani: idk if I could handle that

Tani: don't do that to me V!

Tani: Plz plz plz

Tani: I won't survive

V: calm down Tani

Today 12:41

Chat: V for Vixen and Gravity Girl

V for Vixen: do you know how much it hurts to be called useless from a young age?

V for Vixen: it hurts like a bitch

V for Vixen: and after a while you start to believe it

V for Vixen: especially if everyone

V for Vixen: and I mean everyone

V for Vixen: calls you that

Gravity Girl: ...I had no idea…

V for Vixen: I know you didn’t. That’s why I told you

Gravity Girl: ...I won’t call him that anymore

Gravity Girl: but wat should I call him?

Today 12:42

Chat: Tani and V

V: your shou-chan doesn’t seem like that kind of person

Tani: ur probably right

Tani: Shou-chan is too sweet to do that

Tani: I know he seems so cold but he’s actually just doesn’t know how to interact with people

Tani: he tries so hard to understand people

Tani: he really does

Tani: oh

Tani: he also does this other thing when he gets flustered

Tani: he starts messing with the hem of his shirt

Tani: he doesn’t think that anyone notices

Tani: but I do

Tani: and I am so glad I do

Tani: it's the cutest thing

V: OMG

V: I TAKE IT BACK

V: IMMA TELL HIM

V: I CANT TAKE THE CAVITIES

Today 12:42

Chat: V for Vixen and Gravity Girl

V for Vixen: idk something cutesy

V for Vixen: seems like something u’d do

Gravity Girl: do u think he’d be okay with me using his first name?

V for Vixen: that’s a question for Tani but I would recommend going with the last name

Gravity Girl: so...Mido-kun?

V for Vixen: cute. I’d go for it

Asui has always been observant. Not everyone noticed the budding feelings between Todoroki and Midoriya, but she saw it years ago.

That said, she was not sure what was going on right now.

The two would be lovebirds entered the cafeteria in high spirits despite Midoriya’s out of character behavior this morning. Everything seemed to be resolved until Midoriya received the first of many texts. To Asui’s surprise, Todoroki didn’t appear to have any issues with Midoriya’s distraction, but now she was confused.

At first she thought the shorter boy was texting Uraraka. After all, the gravity controlling teen was also engaged with her phone, and their facial expressions often matched while writing out their responses. If Kirishima and Kaminari’s murmured comments about “texting when he’s right there” were anything to go by, the rest of the table still believed Uraraka and Midoriya were chatting with each other.

Asui was no longer sure.

Their facial expressions were no longer in sync-- Midoriya shifting between smitten and panicked while Uraraka was shifting between concern, guilt, and confusion. Asui knew Midoriya was probably texting about Todoroki now with the lovestruck expressions he was making, but Asui knew Uraraka had not realized Midoriya’s heart was already spoken for. He couldn’t be texting her without her looking sad and heartbroken, too.

Todoroki’s text notification suddenly sounded, startling the table, and tearing Asui out of her thoughts. Midoriya’s head whipped around fast enough that it looked like it may have hurt. “Oh,” Todoroki mumbled. “It’s V.”

Midoriya paled before slamming his head on the table with some force. Todoroki nearly jumped out of his seat, exclaiming in surprise. “Izuku! Are you alright?!”

Midoriya groaned.

“Mido-kun?” Asui raised her eyebrow in response to the Uraraka’s new nickname for Midoriya as the boy in question groaned again, attempting to cover his head with his arms.

The new names suited him. And although the events were unexpected, Asui couldn’t help but be glad Todoroki and Uraraka were slowly putting their hearts on display for Midoriya. That boy needed more love and affection in his life.

However, Asui refused to watch these boys dance around each other for much longer. Although she appreciated the cavity inducing crushes, the heartache underneath was ruining it. That same sadness and hurt was what stopped her from confessing for them. Neither would believe her, but she’d force them to believe the other when the time came.

That said, there was nothing saying she couldn’t speed that process along, either, and she knew exactly who could help.

Asui smiled and searched for the number in her phone. The sounds of Todoroki and Uraraka fretting over Midoriya barely registering as she composed the first text.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: Midoriya’s American Friend Waits “Calmly” In The Shadows

Today 12:53

Chat: Superfrog and V-chan

Superfrog: hello

V-chan: Hi Tsu-chan!

Superfrog: I need some help

V-chan: does it have anything to do with Tani and a certain half n half?

Superfrog: of course

V-chan: I’m listening…

Today 12:50

Chat: V and Freezer Burn

V: Hello, it’s V.

Midoriya knew he was not handling this well, and despite his best efforts, he wasn’t fooling anyone anymore.

In hindsight, smacking one’s head on a table probably wasn’t the best way to appear calm and collected. Only responding with groans and an occasional “Fine. I’m fine” didn’t help the illusion, either.

He survived lunch at least. He eventually sat up and thanked Uraraka and Todoroki for their concern. He was fine, though, he assured them, so they didn’t have to worry about him.

He fooled absolutely no one.

Uraraka and Todoroki moved closer to Midoriya after that-- the dual quirked boy basically plastered to his side and the gravity controller nearly knocking his knees. Midoriya would admit that despite the uneasiness still percolating in his body, feeling the close proximity between two of his best friends was nice. The three teens eventually finished their food with neither Uraraka or Midoriya lifting their phones for the rest of lunch. Uraraka did sometimes try to lighten the mood up with random stories and comments about their classmates.

Todoroki texted V. And whenever Midoriya caught sight of it, he would immediately feel panic and/or uneasiness take over his body. Somehow, Todoroki’s shoulder would always cool down his rapidly escalating body temperature almost as if he knew. But Todoroki knowing his other romantic feelings was the main worry. V had Todoroki’s phone number, and their chat during lunch was plenty of time for V to ruin everything. She could have already confessed for Midoriya despite his protests.

Todoroki put away his phone close to the end of lunch, shortly before the three students walked out together. Midoriya tried to collect himself, but the boy’s mind kept returning to the same worst case scenarios. Midoriya barely suppressed another groan, and he tried to stop the oncoming panic before someone noticed… again.

Today 12:55

Chat: V and Freezer Burn

Freezer Burn: Hello V. How are you?

V: I’m good. I’m just messaging you in order to set up an interview time.

V: I’m interviewing Uraraka right after school, so will anytime later this evening work for you?

Freezer Burn: Since it’s the start of the weekend, I should be okay to do it later.

Freezer Burn: Will 8 work?

V: That’s perfect!

“Izuku?” Startled by the cold hand on his shoulder and the sudden address, Midoriya froze before turning to Todoroki. “You were mumbling again.”

“O-oh,” Midoriya stuttered before walking again.

“I would usually wait for a little longer to drag it out of you...” Uraraka slowly mentioned as Midoriya turned to her. Her eyebrows were scrunched and she looked concerned. Midoriya began to frown again when she continued, “but we are about to go to class, and All Might mentioned that we would be working on quirkless fighting.”

“I’m--”

“Distracted,” Todoroki interrupted Midoriya’s half hearted denial. His hand on Midoriya’s shoulder became cooler and moved in small comforting circles. “We don’t want to pry. You don’t even have to tell us what’s wrong, but we are worried. You’re in no condition to be fighting now with or without your quirk.”

A loud nervous laugh escaped Midoriya’s mouth, startling both of his friends. “Sorry--it’s just-- nothing. It’s nothing, really!”

Uraraka appeared almost angry. “We have eyes, Mido-kun. You are obviously lying.”

Midoriya tensed again, relaxing a little as Todoroki’s hand started moving again. “We just want to help. Tell us how we can help you, Izuku.”

Midoriya sighed, too exhausted to even blush about Todoroki using his first name. He braced himself before mumbling, “What were you and V talking about?”

All three of them stopped in the middle of the hallway. “What?” Todoroki asked, tilting his head to the side in confusion.  

“What does that have to do with--” Uraraka began before Todoroki interrupted her. “We were setting up a time for her to interview me today.”

Wide eyed, Uraraka glanced between Todoroki and Midoriya after the shorter boy let out a sincere sigh of relief.

“Really?”

“Yes?” Todoroki responded, making the answer sound more like a question. “Were we supposed to be talking about something else?”

“No!” Midoriya exclaimed, flailing his hands in front of his face. “That’s good!” Midoriya turned to both of his friends and, noticing the matching confused expressions, he added, “I’m good enough to go to class now. Promise.”

Todoroki and Uraraka both started to protest when Midoriya added, “I won’t get hurt. Promise!”

Todoroki briefly looked at Midoriya’s mangled hand and then back up to the red mark on his face where Midoriya’s face made contact with the table. He raised an eyebrow. “Can you honestly make that promise?” Uraraka snorted.

Midoriya laughed nervously, scratching his head. “I guess you’re right. I promise I’ll,” Midoriya’s paused, voice rising a little, “try not to get hurt?” He shrugged and gave a hesitant smile.

Both Todoroki and Uraraka sighed.  

“That’ll have to do,” Uraraka muttered, linking her arm with Midoriya’s before continuing their walk to class.

“Pair with one of us if we get to choose teams,” Todoroki looked straight into Midoriya's eyes, “okay?”

Midoriya was too busy staring at Todoroki’s pretty mismatched eyes to form words, so he just nodded. Todoroki hummed, and Uraraka made a strange face.

Asui walked up to Todoroki, Midoriya, and Urakaka as soon as they arrived to class.

“All Might hasn’t arrived yet, ribbit,” Asui said, further ingraining herself into the space between Todoroki and Midoriya. Both boys instinctively made room for her, but exchanged questioning looks. Uraraka raised her eyebrow.

“That’s odd,” Midoriya noted, fingers scratching his chin while continuing, “We’re a little late. I was honestly expecting to get in trouble. I wonder if something happened...”

“I’m sure everything’s fine. All Might has been late before. He does like to make an entrance after all,” Todoroki assured Midoriya over Asui’s head.

“I guess…” Midoriya sighed, looking down. After a pause he shifted his gaze between his friends. “So, does anyone know what we are actually doing today?” Looking at Uraraka next to him, Midoriya asked, “You mentioned something about quirkless fighting?”

Uraraka nodded. “Yep. I overheard Aizawa-sensei complaining to All Might about how we’re relying on our quirks too much during combat. I didn’t hear much, but it sounded like Aizawa-sensei might be joining us today.” Uraraka smiled, suddenly realizing something. “All Might is probably late because he had to wake up Aizawa-sensei! Even All Might stands no chance against Aizawa-sensei and his sleep!”

All four students began laughing. “I guess you’re right!” Midoriya choked out between laughs.

Shortly after Midoriya, Todoroki, Asui, and Uraraka stopped laughing, Class 1-A heard Aizawa grumbling from the entrance to the arena, “Don’t even think about--”

“No need to fear!” All Might yelled, interrupting Aizawa. “For we are--” All Might could not finish because Aizawa’s scarf was wrapped around his mouth.

“--not finishing that sentence. I’m too tired for this, and I don’t even have to be here.”

All Might’s boisterous laughter could still be heard underneath the scarf. Aizawa’s eye twitched.

“We’re doing quirkless training. Apparently, All Might thinks he can’t enforce a no quirks rule without me.” Aizawa removed his scarf from All Might’s mouth and shuffled to the wall furthest from the two battle stages. “Don’t prove him right.” Aizawa laid against the wall. “I will be resting here. No quirks. Pair up. Blah blah blah. You get the idea.”

The students began to chatter about partners as All Might began to speak again, smiling at the students’ enthusiasm. “Yes, young heros! Aizawa is correct! You each will be fighting another student without any assistance from your quirk. Any quirk usage will disqualify you. Remember, you are not choosing teams, but rather your opponent! Once you have chosen your partner, please line up to my left or right.”    

“Izuku--” Todoroki began before Asui grabbed his arm and began leading him to All Might. “Midoriya-chan will be fine with Uraraka. I want to speak with you anyway.” Todoroki, stunned, let her drag him to All Might. He did glance back at Midoriya once or twice.

“What just happened?” Midoriya asked, staring at the place Todoroki once was.

“Not sure,” Uraraka said, staring at Asui and Todoroki’s backs. There was a pause before Uraraka looked at Midoriya again and asked, “But will you be my partner, Mido-kun?”

Still staring at the empty space beside him, Midoriya nodded. His gaze momentarily moved to Todoroki’s retreating back before settling on Uraraka. “Of course! Sparring with you will be fun!”

Finally split into ten groups, All Might instructed each pair to go to the bleachers lining the walls next to the concrete stages. Todoroki and Asui’s team and Uraraka and Midoriya’s team were not delegated to the same bleachers. Unfortunately, Kirishima and Bakugou were already sitting at the top bleacher when Uraraka and Midoriya were told to join them. Despite Kirishima’s efforts, Bakugou’s displeasure about being near Midoriya was very audible.   

Thankfully, Bakugou and Kirishima were the first pair fighting on the left stage. Kaminari and Ashido were the first pair simultaneously fighting on the right stage.

Before either pair began, Midoriya already had his notebook and pencil out, ready to take notes. Uraraka sighed, but a small sigh grazed her lips as well.

“You really are amazing, Mido-kun.”

“Huh?” Midoriya stopped tapping his pencil to his lips and looked at Uraraka. “What do you mean? I haven’t done anything.”

Uraraka softly laughed. “You’re always writing in those notebooks, and from the little you’ve shown me, those notes are amazing. I have no idea how you have any more room in our profiles anymore.”

“Oh, I don’t.” That startled a laugh out of Uraraka. Midoriya smiled and shifted his attention to the stages after All Might yelled to begin fighting.

It wasn’t long before the mumbling started, only stopping when both Uraraka and Midoriya cringed or hissed after witnessing a nasty hit. Uraraka tried to start a conversation with Midoriya a few times, but after being ignored or having the answer suddenly cut off, she decided to just watch the fight and enjoy Midoriya’s presence.  

Ashido was the first to win, having locked Kaminari in an armlock. Kaminari tried to claim he went easy on Ashido, but quickly backpedaled when she elbowed him in the stomach after getting up. “Okay, okay. I lost fair and square. That really hurt, Ashido-chan.” Ashido just shrugged and high-fived Asui at their set of bleachers.

That’s when Uraraka noticed. Todoroki was blushing. A lot. And there seemed to be some smoke coming off of his left side. Uraraka hummed at the same time Midoriya uttered a surprised, “Oh.” Startled, Uraraka glanced back at Midoriya whose jaw might as well have been on the floor.

“Midoriya?”

“Ka-chan is going to lose,” Midoriya noted, eyes wide and hands still.

“What?” Uraraka looked at Bakugou and Kirishima’s fight. They seemed evenly matched. Uraraka’s face scrunched up.

“What do you mean? They seem evenly matched. I don’t--” And that’s when Bakugou went down. Kirishima had him in an anaconda hold, and Bakugou struggled to get the other boy’s arms off his neck. It looked like he was about to blast his way out when Aizawa yelled, “Enough.”

Since Aisawa activated his quirk, Bakugou explosions did not detonate. Kirishima immediately released Bakugou from the hold, and stood up. Extending his hand to Bakugou, he cheerfully said, “Good match, Bakugou! Very manly!”

Bakugou ignored the hand and grumbled the entire time he stood up. “Whatever.”

“Bakugou throws the match since he tried to use his quirk.” Having stood up when he used his quirk, Aizawa returned to his sleeping position, mumbling about “brats,” “lazy teachers,” and “getting some damn sleep.”

While All Might described the good and bad strategies each student used during the fights, Uraraka stared at Midoriya. Not much time passed before she leaned over Midoriya’s notebook and asked, “How did you know?”

“You’ve probably noticed Ka-chan has a temper.” Uraraka snorted. “Since Ka-chan couldn’t use his quirk, he was left without his favorite dodging maneuvers and sparring strategies.”

“The ones on his profile page?”

Midoriya nodded. “Yeah, the ones on the main profile page. Since the fight was going on for a while, he was getting tired. Of course, Kirishima was tired, too, but Ka-chan gets annoyed when he’s tired. Plus, he was probably pissed that he hadn’t beaten Kirishima already, too.”

Uraraka snorted again. “Sounds like Bakugou.”

“I figured he’d instinctively try to use his quirk in his irritation. And of course, since that’s against the rules, he’d lose.”

“Huh,” Uraraka muttered.

“Wait, I can show you what I mean.” Midoriya flipped the pages back. After ten or so pages, he showed Uraraka his notes titled Temper, Moods, and Patience . An angry Bakugou was drawn on the left of the page. “See? I wrote it here a while ago.”

“Oh! You really do write everything, Mido-kun!”

Midoriya laughed, and scratched his head. “I guess. I did have to fill out a few more notebooks and sections.” While Midoriya was scratching his head, he happened to glance at the other set of bleachers. “Oh.” He blushed.

Uraraka looked at the bleachers but didn’t see anything of note. Everyone was chatting away, and Todoroki’s shoulder wasn’t smoking anymore. Apparently Asui said something funny, because he was laughing. Weirdly enough, Asui didn’t look happy. Honestly, she looked a little angry.

Uraraka tilted her head and turned to the boy next to her. “Midoriya?”

“Ah,” Midoriya gasped. “Nothing. I got distracted is all. Who do you think is going to win the next round?”    

Uraraka just shrugged, and they continued talking about their predictions. She noticed that Midoriya blushed and stuttered every once in a while whenever his eyes fell on the other bleachers. She could ignore the odd behavior if that meant she could actually talk to Midoriya rather than watch him scribble his extensive and frankly impressive notes.

The students barely sat down when Asui told Todoroki, “You are in love with Midoriya-chan.”

Todoroki understandably gaped at her like a fish before blushing. When his brain went back on line, he started stumbling over his reply. “I don’t-- what do you-- how did you-- I guess, but… Um. Probably. Maybe. I don’t know.”

“It wasn’t a question, Todoroki-chan. I wanted to tell you that I’ve noticed.” Having noticed all of the color draining from Todoroki’s face, Asui clarified, “I noticed, but I don’t think anyone else has. Certainly not Midoriya. That boy is dense as a brick.”

Todoroki’s face scrunched up in an odd expression suggesting he agreed with her but was also insulted on Midoriya’s behalf. Asui couldn’t help but laugh.

“Don’t worry. You’re pretty dense yourself.” Todoroki’s head jerked back in surprise.

“Excuse me?”

Asui smiled, “You just said you didn’t know if you are in love with Midoriya-chan. You are. That-- among other things-- is why you are dense.”

Todoroki raised his eyebrow and leaned closer to Asui before asking, “What ‘other things’ are you talking about?”

“Things.”

Asui smiled, and Todoroki sighed. “Fine.” They sat in silence watching the fights. After Ashido punched Kaminari in the face particularly hard, both students flinched.

“Poor Kaminari. That looked like it hurt,” Todoroki mumbled under his breath.

“Good for Ashido, though. She’s been getting a lot stronger!” Todoroki hummed. There’s a pause before the curiosity got to Todoroki again.

“Do these ‘things’ have to do with Izuku?” Todoroki could see in the corner of his eye Asui’s smile widening.

“Yes. Yes they do.” Todoroki started messing with the hem of his gym uniform. His gaze moved to the down and right.  

“Are they… good things that have to do with Izuku?” Todoroki’s face colored.

“If you stopped being oblivious, yes. Right now, it’s not working for either of you. It pains me to see you two throw away something good.”

“My friendship with Izuku is a good thing. He makes me happy, and I hope I make him happy, too.”

“But you could be happier, couldn’t you?” Todoroki’s face reddened more. “You want to date Midoriya-chan, right? Don’t you want to hold his hand without needing a reason? Cuddle with him? Maybe even kiss him?”

Smoke started pouring from Todoroki’s left side while Todoroki tried to formulate words. “I--It’s--That’s not-- Izuku doesn’t--” Todoroki dropped his head into his hands and whined.

“You should ask him out on a date.”

“No,” Todoroki murmured from behind his hands.

Asui groaned. “Why not?” Todoroki didn’t reply. Asui huffed and returned her attention to the battles. It took a while for Todoroki to lift his head from his hands.

Still staring forward, Todoroki admitted, “I don’t want to lose him.”

Asui hummed to show she was listening. There was still a lengthy pause before he elaborated.

“I know he always denies it, but Izuku saved me. He taught me to accept my left side as mine, and encouraged me to follow my own path rather than one based on my father. He was my first friend, and he is my best friend. To lose that-- To lose him would--” Todoroki cut himself off, choking up. He looked away with some tears threatening to fall. “I don’t want to lose him over something so stupid .” Todoroki almost looked angry.

Asui grimaced. Before she could reply with anything, Aizawa was announcing Bakugou’s loss.

“Todoroki-kun, I didn’t mean to make you upset.”

Todoroki still wasn’t looking at Asui. Asui considered the situation for a moment. Midoriya and Uraraka bent over talking caught Asui’s eye, and her eyes lit up with an idea. “How would you feel if Midoriya-chan dated someone else?”

Todoroki tensed. Todoroki didn’t turn, but he shifted his gaze to All Might talking to their fellow students. He asked with no emotion, “What?”

“How would you feel if Midoriya-chan dated, let’s say, Uraraka-chan? What would you do?”

As Asui posed her questions, Todoroki noticed that Uraraka and Midoriya were chatting together, both leaning over Midoriya’s notebook. Midoriya was smiling. There was another pause before Todoroki answered again emotionless, “I wouldn’t do anything.”

“Really? Nothing?”

“Yes. If Izuku was happy… I wouldn’t ruin that.”

Asui huffed again. “And what if you could make him happier than Uraraka-chan?” Todoroki burst out laughing.

Now it was Asui’s turn to look angry. There was clearly no amusement in Todoroki’s laughter, fueled more by self-loathing than happiness.

“Even if that were true-- which it’s not-- Uraraka-chan would be the better choice.”  

Asui blurted out in frustration, “And if she isn’t?”

Todoroki glared at Asui point blank now. “But she is.” Asui scoffed. Asui knew a dismissal when she saw one. She wasn’t done yet, but for now, she just let Todoroki stare longingly at the ray of sunshine across the way.

In the meantime, she formulated a plan as the second round of students fought. Uraraka and Midoriya were scheduled to fight as the same time as Asui and Todoroki. Asui smiled. She had an idea. It wasn’t long until All Might announced their turn to fight.

“Your frustration is showing,” Asui mentioned as she dodged another poorly planned right hook from Todoroki.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Todoroki denied, narrowly dodging a low kick from Asui.

“Mido-kun! You’re distracted. You almost didn’t block that or my last punch. Those should have been easy!”

Midoriya nervously laughed as he rolled out of the way. “Sorry. Sorry. You’re right.”

“Is this about before? You said you were okay to fight!” Midoriya’s breathe was knocked out of him when he failed to block Uraraka’s elbow to his side. “Ah! Sorry!”

“I am!” Midoriya whined, countering Uraraka’s latest punch with one of his own. This time it was Uraraka who stumbled back rubbing her cheek. “But Shou-chan seems off, doesn’t he?”

"Shou-chan?” Uraraka muttered in confusion before recognizing the nickname just in time to block a jab from Midoriya. “Oh, you mean Todoroki-kun. Maybe, but you should be paying attention to your own fight!”

Midoriya laughed a little louder. “You’re right. You’re right. Sorry.” Uraraka pouted, but she decided it was okay when Midoriya feinted another punch and instead swiping her feet out from under her. By now, Midoriya was known for fighting dirty. It was also well known that Midoriya couldn’t fight dirty for the life of him if he was distracted.

“You should ask Midoriya-chan out on a date.” Asui jabbed, and Todoroki blocked.

“No.” Todoroki cross punched, and Asui blocked.

“You should ask Midoriya-chan out on a date, Todoroki-chan.” Asui’s punch grazed Todoroki’s shoulder as he side stepped in time.

“Stop, Asui.”

“Just ask him to get ice cream or something,” Asui suggested, throwing another punch. Todoroki attempted a counterpunch. It landed. Asui tried to knee Todoroki in response. Her knee barely made contact before he jumped out of the way.

“I said no.”

Circling around each other, Asui continued their conversation. “There’s a new ice cream parlor that opened up nearby. I know you like ice cream and so does Midoriya-chan. You could always claim it was a friendly get together if it doesn’t pan out.”

Finally finding an opening, Asui pounced Todoroki. Todoroki stumbled back, rubbing his jaw. Asui had landed her punch. “Of course, I am 99+1 percent sure it will work out, though.” Asui kept side-stepping closer to Todoroki. “Uraraka-chan and Midoriya-chan would never work out, by the way. I said that to make you jealous. You two would work out. You’re just too scared to see things clearly.”

“I’m not scared,” Todoroki mumbled, stepping closer to Asui, looking for an opening of his own.

“Yes you are.” With that, both Todoroki and Asui lunged at each other. They caught each other in an odd hold of some sort, each trying to get in position to flip their opponent. “Plus,” Asui continued, a little out of breathe, “Midoriya-chan has been glancing at you during the whole fight.” Todoroki tensed, but held his ground. “How odd that someone who would supposedly be happier with Uraraka-chan is definitely paying more attention to you then her right now.”

Todoroki almost got the upper-hand during Asui’s observation, but she stole it back, turning them so Todoroki was facing away from the other fight.

“Tsuyu-chan, why do you even care?” They both paused for a moment.

“Because I want you both to be happy, and you are both being idiots instead.” Asui kneed Todoroki in the side, but before she could land another kick, he tackled her. They wrestled on the ground for a little longer before Asui started laughing.

“What,” Todoroki breathlessly asked, “are you laughing at?”

“At Midoriya-chan,” Asui replied, escaping from his hold. Todoroki’s hold had loosened but was still too strong for Asui to overthrow. Asui and Todoroki shuffled around each other for a moment before Asui continued. “He keeps smiling every time you successfully do something. It’s cute. He’s frowning now, though.”

Todoroki didn’t even realize he was turning to look at Midoriya when Asui tackled him again. This time, his head slammed into the ground.

Dazed and in pain, Asui was easily able to overpower Todoroki, straddling his back and putting Todoroki in a painful armlock.

“Fuck,” Todoroki cursed, head throbbing.

“Mido-kun!” Uraraka yelled. Despite his position, Todoroki jerked his head to the side just in time to see Midoriya on the ground with his nose bleeding.   

“At least I wasn’t the only one knocked off my feet by the ladies!” Kaminari yelled from the bleachers. Everyone around him groaned.

“Asui and Uraraka win. Whoop-di-do. Good job and all that,” Aizawa announced from the wall. “Uraraka, bring Midoriya to Recovery Girl.”

“Young Todoroki, you should go with them as well. It looked like you hit your head,” All Might instructed, walking toward the two boys on the floor.

Asui released Todoroki, whispering in his ears, “Seriously, ask him out already. You won’t regret it.”

Todoroki looked at All Might and then stared at Midoriya, whose nose definitely looked crooked. “Yeah, okay.”

Asui wasn’t sure if that was meant for her or for All Might.

Uraraka kept apologizing to Midoriya the entire walk to Recovery Girl’s office. Todoroki stayed mostly silent, walking behind the two, while Uraraka babbled about how she thought Midoriya would try to tackle her or fall to his knees or something other than just faceplanting.

Todoroki kept staring at them as Midoriya tried to assure Uraraka that his nose wasn’t her fault. He was distracted. Midoriya should have noticed her plan beforehand, but he didn’t, so the elbow in the back caught him off guard. His fault, Uraraka. Really.

Asui was told to stay with the others, and for that, Todoroki was grateful. His conversation with Asui, if you could call it a conversation, left Todoroki with a sense of unease. It didn’t help that every time he caught Uraraka placing her hand on Midoriya’s shoulder or grabbing his hand, something rolled unpleasantly in Todoroki’s stomach.

Todoroki’s felt sluggish, too, which was irritating. He partly was walking behind the other two to give them space, but he was also just walking slower than usual. His long legs typically propelled him past his shorter friends, but now they felt almost like weights.

It’s when his ears starting ringing that Todoroki realized he probably had a problem. “Fuck,” Todoroki groaned for the second time in the last hour. Midoriya, having turned to glance at Todoroki for the third or fourth time, stopped in his tracks, concern evident on his face.

“Shou-chan? Are you okay? Is there anything we could do to help?”

It took a while for Todoroki to reply, momentarily giddy about the nickname. “Recovery Girl,” Todoroki blurted, blinking slowly before continuing. “We should get to Recovery Girl. I think I have a concussion.”

“Oh!” Uraraka exclaimed. “Definitely! Come here then.” She dragged him until he was in the middle of her and Midoriya. “Walk in the middle of us until we get to Recover Girl. Then we can catch you if you fall!”

Uraraka was smiling at him. Midoriya was smiling at him. They both linked their arms with his, and all Todoroki could do was mutter an “Uh. Okay.” The ringing got louder as they walked, but at least he felt safe in between his friends.    

Todoroki with a concussion and Midoriya with a fractured nose, Recovery Girl was, as one can imagine, not pleased.

Todoroki and Midoriya were scolded for their inattentiveness during their fights. Thankfully, a lot of her muttering was directed at “that miserable excuse of a teacher” who keeps thinking she’s “a miracle worker or something.” Midoriya cringed, imagining the lecture in All Might’s future.

“Uraraka, please go back to class now. I can handle these two troublemakers,” Recovery Girl said, staring at the two boys who were sharing the same bed.

“Are you sure?” Uraraka asked.

“Yes. Positive. Please tell All Might that these boys won’t be returning to class.”

Uraraka eyes widened in worry. “All day?”

“I’m not sure about that. They definitely won’t be going back to Foundational Hero Studies today. We’ll play it by ear when it comes to history class.”

“Okay.” Uraraka hesitantly started walking out of the office. “I’ll see you two later.” She paused until the boys waved goodbye. “Feel better!” And with that, she left.

“Todoroki, I hope this doesn’t become a habit. I expect this from Midoriya at this point.” Midoriya attempted to protest, but a glare from Recovery Girl stopped him. “But not you.”

“I’ll try my best, Recovery Girl-san.”

“Good. The least you boys could do is look out for each other if you refuse to look out for yourselves. Honestly, I’m fine if you have to force each other to be more attentive and less self-sacrificial. And you!” Recovery Girl pointed at Midoriya. “Stop being a bad influence on Todoroki!”

Midoriya spluttered and he was shut down by another glare before he could respond. “I can’t heal everything--” Recovery Girl shifted her gaze between Todoroki to Midoriya before landing on Midoriya, “and your body certainly can’t handle being healed this often, Midoriya.”

“Yes, Recovery Girl-san,” Midoriya mumbled, head hanging low. Recovery Girl sighed heavily, but kissed both boys.

“Both of you will have to rest here for the rest of Foundational Hero Studies,” Recovery Girl informed the two boys who already looked like there were about to pass out. “Do you two want to lay down in separate beds?” Todoroki and Midoriya slowly shook their heads no, leaning on each other.

Recovery hummed knowingly. “I’m asking because I have to leave to get more supplies before the other students arrive with their injuries. I don’t want either of you getting out of bed without me around. Are you sure you want to lay down in the same bed?”

At this point, Midoriya’s head was nestled underneath Todoroki’s, both boys’ arms intertwined. Both of their eyes were drooping, but that didn’t stop them from making noises of agreement. Recovery Girl smiled to herself.

“Okay then. But let me help you before I go.” She guided Midoriya to lay down on the bed. Since Todoroki was already entangled with Midoriya, he followed. As Recovery Girl moved aside, the two boys got settled over the sheets. “I don’t know the extent of your concussion, Todoroki, so you might have to rest for a little longer.” There were noises of acknowledgement. The two of them got comfortable in a seemingly awkward mix between hugging and spooning. Recovery Girl shook her head in amusement. “I’ll be right back. Please don’t get up, and definitely don’t get injured again before I return.”

With that, she left the room.

The first thing Todoroki noticed when he started to wake up was that his arm was asleep and there was a weight on his chest. Although slightly uncomfortable, he still felt… happy?

The second thing Todoroki noticed was that his headache and the ringing were gone. Slowly opening his eyes, Todoroki tried to shift his sleeping arm with little success. He glanced at his arm and found it pinned under a still sleeping Midoriya. Todoroki had to concentrate on not bursting into flames.

A sleeping Midoriya was in a different league of cuteness. Todoroki wanted to run his hands through his even messier green hair. He wanted to caress Midoriya’s face and trace the mouth that was still mumbling even in his sleep.

Midoriya snuggled further into Todoroki’s chest, his hand grabbing onto Todoroki’s. Todoroki instinctively squeezed their hands and embraced him tighter. Todoroki’s heart hurt from the cuddling. And that’s when Todoroki remembered his conversation with Asui. D on’t you want to hold his hand without needing a reason? Todoroki stared at their hands. Cuddle with him? Todoroki considered their positions. Maybe even kiss him? Todoroki stared at Midoriya’s lips, blushing up a storm.

“Shit,” Todoroki whispered.  

Midoriya took that moment to start waking up, and every groan and snuggle into Todoroki’s chest left him with more pain in his heart. It took a while, but Midoriya eventually figured out Todoroki wasn’t a pillow or a bed.

“Sho-Shou-chan!” Midoriya jerked up too fast, trying to regain his balance when he got dizzy.

“Whoa. Be careful, Izuku!” Todoroki warned, grabbing Midoriya’s arm to steady him. Midoriya laughed nervously.

“I’m fine. I’m fine. I’m fine!” Midoriya repeated. Once he was steady he continued, “Sorry about--” Midoriya gestured at the bed, “that.”

Todoroki raised his eyebrow. “That?” Midoriya just nodded, and Todoroki resisted the urge to snort.

“It’s fine.” Midoriya appeared to want to interrupt, but Todoroki kept talking. “We were both tired. And--” Todoroki hesitated. “It was nice.” Todoroki sighed. “You felt nice.” Todoroki’s eyes widened and blushed, realizing his mistake.

“That’s not what I-- I meant that--” Todoroki dropped his face into his hand and whined. Midoriya burst out laughing. After both of them seemed to regain their composure, Todoroki lifted his head and gestured at the bed like Midoriya did. “That… felt nice with you. I enjoyed it.”

“Me, too,” Midoriya blurted out, his face matching half of Todoroki’s hair. “I-- Um. I enjoyed it, too… With you.”

Both boys hummed, looking away from each other. There was another pause before Midoriya started chuckling. Todoroki looked at him, head tilting in confusion.

“I think Recovery Girl was right.”

“About what?”

“About me being a bad influence on you?” Todoroki raised his eyebrow in skepticism. “Not only are you getting hurt, which is my thing by the way--” Todoroki scoffed. “-- but you are starting to stutter and ramble like me, too. Stop stealing my things, Todoroki. What will I be known for if you take that away from me?” Midoriya’s eyes were crinkled, playfulness clear in his gaze.

Todoroki laughed, making Midoriya don a wider smile. “Other than stumbling over sentences and getting hurt?” Midoriya nodded, his smile looking like it might break his face. Todoroki shuffled closer to Midoriya until their sides were pressing again each other again. “Having a big heart and making great strategies spring to mind.” Midoriya blushed and looked away. “I’m sure I can think of others.”

Midoriya scratched his head in embarrassment. “Hah. I guess.” He tried to compose himself before looking back at Todoroki. “Thank you.”

Todoroki shrugged. Feeling Midoriya’s body heat, Todoroki was reminded of Asui’s pestering.

“Midoriya,” Todoroki started waiting for Midoriya to look at him. “I want ice cream.”

Midoriya smiled and raised an eyebrow himself. “Ice cream?”

“Yep. Ice cream sounds amazing right now. I feel like we deserve it, don’t you?”

“I mean, I guess. I’m not sure when or where we’d be able to get it, though.”   

“Asui mentioned that there is a new ice parlor that opened nearby. Would you-- would you want to go with me?”

Midoriya’s eyes lit up, but before he could reply Recovery Girl barged in. “Not today you’re not.”

“What--” Midoriya started before Recovery Girl started talking again. “Ice cream does sound nice, but you definitely aren’t going anywhere off campus. I refuse to treat you again today, and you two have a habit of attracting trouble.” Recovery Girl started putting away her supplies in the boxes and drawers around the office. “Go another day. A day where you aren’t so tired and your senses are more alert. Okay?”

“Yes, Recovery Girl-san,” they both replied.

“Good. Now go back to your rooms.”

“Wait, what?” Todoroki asked.

“Do you mean class?” Midoriya suggested.   

“Nope. You both slept through history as well. I just came back from stocking up on my supplies for minor wounds again. Thankfully, you two were the only ones that needed more than an adhesive bandage or an ice pack.”

There was silence as the boys wondered if Recovery Girl was serious.

“If you don’t believe me, look at your phones. Uraraka and Asui brought your bags, so I’m assuming your phones must be in there somewhere.”

Recovery Girl wasn’t lying, and she gave them a knowing look as they left her office in a rush.   

“Todoroki-kun! Mido-kun! I’m so glad you are okay!” Uraraka all but screamed at them when they entered the common room. They were quickly trapped in a very strong embrace.

“You gave us a scare. We were worried,” Iida noted from behind Uraraka.

“How are you both doing?” Asui asked, walking up to Todoroki’s side. “I didn’t mean to hit you that hard, Todoroki-chan.”

Todoroki gave Asui a look as Midoriya answered, “We’re doing much better now! Recovery Girl-san patched us all up! I’m really in the mood for ice cream, though...:”

“Ice cream?” Asui asked, raising her eyebrow at Todoroki.

“Yeah, Shou-chan mentioned ice cream when we were in the office. Now I’m in the mood for it.”

“There’ a new ice cream parlor that just opened up nearby…” Asui slowly mentioned before Todoroki interrupted her with a slightly irritated, “We know.”

Midoriya’s looked confused about Todoroki’s tone for a moment before he responded, “Uh… yeah. Shou-chan mentioned the parlor, too. We actually had plans to go, but unfortunately we can’t.” Midoriya pouted, and Todoroki’s heart might have beaten a little quicker when Todoroki saw.

“Oh? Why’s that?”

This time Midoriya huffed before he pouted. Todoroki looked away, blushing but trying to appear indifferent. Asui stifled a laugh. “Recovery Girl-san said we are too tired to be alert right now, so going out in public isn’t a great idea. Especially since she said she won’t heal us a second time today.”

“Yeah,” Todoroki interjected before sighing himself. “In other words, no ice cream. Doctor’s orders.”

Asui gave Todoroki a sympathetic glance. “Ah.” Todoroki’s face fell a little, and he nodded.

“Ice cream does sound amazing, though!” Uraraka exclaimed, bouncing a little in place. “When you’re both better, we should all go!”

Before Todoroki, Midoriya, or Asui could answer, Iida interjected. “If Uraraka-chan is joining you, I would also like to join.”

“Actually…” Asui mumbled, but Todoroki was the only one to hear her, her voice drowned out by Iida’s passionate outburst. Todoroki muttered an “um” which was easily lost in the chaos as well.

“It sounds like a pleasant outing with plenty of opportunities for bonding! Additionally, I can discover your tastes which would be helpful in planning future events that feature food.”

“I don’t think that’s what they--” Asui tried again before Uraraka interrupted her. “Now I’m so excited!”

Asui huffed. She was about to interject again when she saw Todoroki’s face. He appeared resigned, and Asui’s face fell.

“Me as well! But we must be certain to do it on a weekend. We need sufficient studying and sleep on school nights. We musn’t interrupt our school schedules for ice cream no matter how tempting.”

“Iida-kun! It’s just ice cream!”

“Uraraka-chan--”

“Okay! Okay! We’ll do it on the weekend. I think I’m going to get something with chocolate. What flavor are you going to get, Mido-kun?”

“Maybe vanilla? Though cookie dough sounds good, too. Oh! But strawberry!” Midoriya laughed, scratching his head. “I guess I’ll have to decide when I get there.”

“I will get vanilla.”

“Boo! That’s boring, Iida! Be more adventurous!” Uraraka teased. Her comment startled a laugh out of Midoriya. Todoroki’s sad smile in response hurt Asui’s heart.

“I’m sorry, Todoroki-chan,” Asui whispered.

“It’s okay, Tsuyu-chan, “ Todoroki mumbled, his eyes following Midoriya’s expressive hands.

“You should try again.”

Todoroki hummed at her. His eyes finally brightened when Midoriya let out a full-belly laugh.

Asui sighed. They tried. They’ll do better next time. V’s Plan B might need some tweaking, but they were going to try it. And if that didn’t work, they’d go to Plan C and then Plan D and then Plan E.

Eventually these dense boys will figure it out.  After all, everyone knows if at first you don’t succeed, try try again.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6: Midoriya’s American Friend Recruits An Oblivious Friend

Despite the drama that started after introducing V to Class A-1, Midoriya felt oddly calm and happy. Although feeling both calm and happy was unusual for Midoriya, the reasons were clearly laid before him.

He liked waking up to Todoroki. A lot. Midoriya would be lying if he said he didn’t often daydream of waking up with Todoroki in the morning, preferably in one of their rooms instead of Recovery Girl’s office, though. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t often pretend that the pillow he was hugging was Todoroki or that Midoriya’s arms wrapped around his own torso were Todoroki spooning him whenever Midoriya was trying to fall asleep. Midoriya would be lying if he said he didn’t just long to be a domestic couple with Todoroki.

So despite Midoriya’s initial panic when trying to apologize for cuddling him while asleep, his initial happiness returned when Todoroki told him that “it felt nice,” and that he “enjoyed it.” “Enjoyed it” would be a huge understatement for Midoriya, but those comments still gave him butterflies in his stomach.

His heart felt like it was running a marathon when Todoroki mentioned going out for ice cream together. Midoriya’s little gay heart immediate assumed Todoroki was asking Midoriya on a date. Unfortunately, Midoriya’s logic decided to open it’s annoying mouth and noted that Todoroki didn’t use the word “date,” and that Todoroki was his best friend. Best friends go out to eat together and hang out alone all of the time. Still, Midoriya’s little gay heart stubbornly clutched onto that glimmer of hope.

However, that plan seemed ruined now. Midoriya was still happy to go with his friends, but he was disappointed that it won’t just be Todoroki and him. That does bring us to the next obvious reason that Midoriya was calm and happy: his friends’ shenanigans.

Somehow, Iida and Uraraka lighthearted arguing about ice cream flavors in the common room turned into an arm wrestling match. Many of the other students of Class 1-A apparently heard the commotion while the two were arguing, so now the match had a sizable audience. Despite Iida’s protests on the legality of making bets as minors, Midoriya spotted Kaminari and Ashida helping students make bets, accepting various junk foods as currency.

Midoriya didn’t place any formal bet (mostly because he already ate all of his junk food except his precious marshmallows), but he would have bet on Uraraka. And if he had, Midoriya would have won by a landslide.

“I did not use my quirk in this match because I believed it would give me an unfair advantage. I see you did not offer me the same kindness,” Iida argued, still staring at his arm laying on the table.

Uraraka, having stood up to celebrate, turned to Iida. “We never mentioned whether we could use quirks or not. And you tried to use your quirk, you liar! No one moves there body like that during an arm wrestling match unless they are trying to do something sneaky with their legs.”

“But I did not use it to its full extent! If I did, you would be hurt. Making your hand heavier and mine lighter is basically cheating!”

“Uh-uh! You can’t pull that one on me, mister! Using our quirks during arm wrestling matches is fair and square! The only reason you are upset is because you couldn’t figure out a good way to use your quirk, and you lost. That’s not my problem. Deal’s a deal. You have to choose a more exciting ice cream flavor now.”

“But I call foul play!” Iida argued, finally getting out of his chair. “One does not have to adhere to the rules of a deal where the other party used a loophole!”

Iida’s accusation, and his unconvincing argument about the ethics of using quirks during arm wrestling matches left Iida stuck to the ceiling. Midoriya’s stomach couldn’t handle how much he was laughing.

In the midst of all the chaos, Todoroki moved closer to Midoriya. By the time Asui was offering her tongue as a rope to Iida, Midoriya was hanging off of Todoroki’s arm trying not to fall onto the floor guffawing. Midoriya laughed so hard when he saw Uraraka lounging on the coach with a self satisfied smirk that he did fall onto the floor like a sack of potatoes. He just happened to drag Todoroki down with him. Midoriya couldn’t help but smile when he heard Todoroki’s very quiet but obvious chuckle.

Midoriya might not be calm anymore, but he was definitely happy. Todoroki’s laughter was a treasure, and that little smile he was showing Midoriya was a thing of true beauty. Midoriya’s smile was stuck on his face, becoming brighter as he leaned his forehead onto Todoroki’s.

Today 15:27

Chat: Superfrog and V-chan

Superfrog: Plan A failed. We need to start tweaking Plan B.

V-chan: Was it Tani’s fault?

Superfrog: Actually, it was Uraraka-chan.

V-chan: Uravity? Really? Not the dumb dense lovebirds?

Superfrog: Unfortunately, yes. How much detail will you need for Plan B?

V-chan: Tell me everything

Today 15:27

Chat: Gravity Girl and V for Vixen

Gravity Girl: Sorry about the delay! We had some drama while we were sparring today. Everyone seems fine now, so I can do the interview.

V for Vixen: Froppy mentioned both Todoroki and Tani got hurt. Is that normal?

Gravity Girl: yes

Gravity Girl: sadly Deku gets hurt all the time

Gravity Girl: Todoroki less often

Gravity Girl: I mean Mido-kun

Gravity Girl: not deku

V for Vixen: have you called Tani that yet?

Gravity Girl: yep

Gravity Girl: he didn’t say anything so I think it’s okay?

V for Vixen: it’s cute

V for Vixen: I wouldn’t worry about it

V for Vixen: my project on the other hand

V for Vixen: let’s worry about that

Gravity Girl: oh yeah!

Gravity Girl: The interview! ask away! :)

Today 15: 57

Chat: V and Todoroki

Todoroki: I apologize, but I won’t be available for our scheduled interview today. I was hurt during class today, and I need to rest. I can be available later tonight once I wake up, but I am not sure whether that would be a bad time for you.

Todoroki: I just looked up the time difference. Were you texting at 3am your time?

V for Vixen: Hah. Yeah.

V for Vixen: I don’t exactly sleep. I assure you that I’ll be awake whenever you are available for our interview. I hope you feel better soon!

Todoroki: Interesting, and thank you. I’ll text you when I wake up.

Today 15:59

Chat: Gravity Girl and V for Vixen

V for Vixen: I heard that Todoroki and Tani were hurt during sparring

V for Vixen: how often do you guys spar?

V for Vixen: how much of a focus does your program have on fighting?

Gravity Girl: we spar pretty often

Gravity Girl: knowing how to fight and strategize is very important for heros, so besides our normal classes

Gravity Girl: like english, history, math, stuff like that

Gravity Girl: all of our classes have to do with fighting villains, saving citizens, or finding the right marketing

Gravity Girl: honestly

Gravity Girl: now that I think about it

Gravity Girl: even our normal classes have a fighting, saving, or marketing slant a lot of the time

Gravity Girl: huh

V for Vixen: is sparring outside of class a thing?

Gravity Girl: definitely, but that’s up to each individual student

Gravity Girl: some fight more often than others and some just work out

V for Vixen: do Todoroki and Tani spar often?

Gravity Girl: uh

Gravity Girl: i guess? I know they spar but I’m not sure how often

Gravity Girl: Mido-kun and I spar too so it’s definitely not all the time

Gravity Girl: why?

V for Vixen: before I answer that, I have a question for you

V for Vixen: it would be in your best interest to be honest when you answer

Gravity Girl: uh okay

V for Vixen: do you have a crush on Tani?

In his room, Midoriya was trying to process what happened in the common room. It’s true that Midoriya was a little worried about Todoroki’s silence during most of the silliness.

Don’t get him wrong, out of the entire class, Todoroki was definitely shier than most. But at this point, Todoroki engaged with the other students more often and with a little more ease. That said, he previously confided in Midoriya that he sometimes gets overwhelmed with all of the students when their energy is particularly high, and Todoroki sometimes get frustrated with himself and his upbringing when the students all speak of something he never experienced before. So when Todoroki appeared at Midoriya’s side during all of the chaos, Midoriya was unsure if he was seeking comfort.

So, yes, Midoriya was indulging a little bit when he was hanging onto Todoroki while laughing, but he was also trying to make sure Todoroki was feeling included. And yes, Midoriya was reluctant to let go of Todoroki which is why he accidently dragged him onto the floor with him, but clearly it helped Todoroki to join the fun. He was chuckling, too, after all. (And smiling with that smile that gives Midoriya heart palpitations every time, but that was not here nor there.)

And maybe Midoriya did get a little too into the moment. Of course, he wanted to show Todoroki that he belonged with their wild friends. He obviously wanted to show Todoroki that he was allowed to have fun with them, and somewhere in Midoriya’s very gay brain, he thought physical intimacy was the way to go. So Midoriya pressed their foreheads together, grinning from ear to ear. And Todoroki might have wrapped his arm around Midoriya’s waist. Midoriya might admit that he pressed himself into Todoroki a little more than would be acceptable among most friends, and he might admit that a not so innocent sound escaped him when they made contact.

Midoriya had almost panicked then, but Todoroki had just looked at him. And they just stayed like that, with a few giggles escaping them every once in awhile, grinning and content.

Then something caught Todoroki’s eye. That’s when he tensed up and detangled himself from Midoriya. He left Midoriya with a tense smile and claiming he needed to rest.

Midoriya immediately felt lonely, but, hoping Todoroki was telling the truth, he returned to his attention to his friends’ shenanigans. It had distracted him well enough.

But now, having returned to his room to rest as well, his mind had other plans. One of those plans was to spiral into panic.

Midoriya needed his phone.

Today 15:59

Chat: Tani and V

Tani: i’m dying 

V: is this dramatic Tani or injured Tani

V: i heard you were beat up today

V: so you could actually be dying 

Tani: I’m fine. Tired but fine

V: i heard you got hurt because you were staring at your Shou-chan 

V: were you staring at his ass?

Tani: V! 

Tani: no!

Tani: he was acting weird and I was worried about him

V: aw

V: does he not have a nice ass?

Tani: i am not going to answer that and you know it

V: so this sounds like dramatic Tani

V: so why are you dying?

Tani: Shou-chan and i may or may not have shared a bed at Recovery Girl’s office

Tani: and we may or may not have cuddled while asleep 

Tani: and Shou-chan might have mentioned that he liked it!!!!!

V: So scandalous!

V: did you confess?

Tani: lol no 

V: Tani, this is getting ridiculous

Tani: just let me pine in peace ok?

Tani: either way we have a ice cream date later

Tani: maybe

Tani: though Uraraka and Iida will be there so I am not sure if that counts

V: it will count

Tani: and he never really said it was a date so I might just be reading into things

Tani: but a boy can dream

Today 16:13

Chat: Gravity Girl and V for Vixen:

Gravity Girl: …

Gravity Girl: why do you ask

V for Vixen: there’s no shame in saying yes

V for Vixen: Tani is a wonderful person

V for Vixen: it’s very easy to have a crush on him

V for Vixen: I would know

Gravity Girl: are you two together?

Gravity Girl: romantically?

V for Vixen: lol no

V for Vixen: but not from lack of trying

Today 16:15

Chat: Tani and V

V: or you could just confess and not have to dream 

Tani: we already went over this

Tani: I’d rather dream than lose Shou-chan forever

V: you won’t lose him forever drama queen

Tani: you don’t know that

Midoriya was getting very sick of this emotional whiplash. He was happy not too long ago, and now he’s sad. Again. Because V kept pushing Midoriya to confess, and he kept dwelling on the negative outcomes. The risk was just too high. 

Far too high.

And Midoriya was far too tired and too drained for this. Despite the energy he felt after waking up with Todoroki, the exhaustion caused by Recovery Girl’s healing was catching up to him. Sleep. Midoriya should sleep. With that in mind, he silenced his phone and grabbed his pillow. Yes, okay, he imagined it was Todoroki he was holding, but no one needed to know that.

Today 16:35

Chat: Gravity Girl and V for Vixen

V for Vixen: an unrequited crush became an incredibly close friendship so I can’t really complain 

V for Vixen: plus then I got a OTP out of it. An OTP that hopefully will become a reality very very soon, and I get to see Tani happy and boy does that boy need to be happy

Gravity Girl: wait

Gravity Girl: are you trying to imply that Mido-kun has a crush on me?

V for Vixen: sorry no

V for Vixen: Tani doesn’t have a crush on you

Gravity Girl: oh

V for Vixen: he still thinks of you as a close friend

V for Vixen: best friend even

Gravity Girl: then who are you talking about?

Gravity Girl: this OTP?

V for Vixen: I’ll give you a hint

V for Vixen: I once dyed my hair in their honor

V for Vixen: I’m sure Tani has photos of it for blackmail purposes because he said I looked like a Christmas fanatic

V for Vixen: my hair was green

V for Vixen: red

Vi for Vixen: and white

Gravity Girl: are any of those colors your natural hair

V for Vixen: nope

Gravity Girl: …

V for Vixen: and from one Tani lover to another, we don’t have a chance

Gravity Girl: wat

Gravity Girl: wat do you mean?

V for Vixen: we don’t stand a chance

V for Vixen: at this point smitten is an understatement

V for Vixen: and one might even say Tani is in love

V for Vixen: and a certain frog confirmed that it’s requited

Gravity: wait

Gravity Girl: I thought Mido-kun was the green hair dye

V for Vixen: ...it is

Gravity Girl: then what does Asui have to do with your OTP?

V for Vixen: lol

V for Vixen: she’s my spy

V for Vixen: she convinced the other half to ask Tani out, although I heard you hijacked that future date

Gravity Girl: wait

Gravity Girl: red and white hair

Gravity Girl: who i made plans with today!!!!????

Gravity Girl:... IS THE OTHER HALF TODOROKI-KUN???!!?!?

V for Vixen: you got it

V for Vixen: since we have no chance...

V for Vixen: Uraraka Ochako 

V for Vixen: will you help me matchmake these dense lovesick idiots?

Today 17:25

Chat: Superfrog and V-chan

V-chan: Plan B has begun.

Todoroki sat in the middle of his room for at least 20 minutes before he could calm himself down enough to text V. It took a lot more breathing exercises and a few doused shoulder fires to process the events from the day. 

Todoroki slept in the same bed with Midoriya. Todoroki cuddled with Midoriya. Midoriya admitted to liking it (and didn’t that admission do something to Todoroki’s poor gay heart).Todoroki asked Midoriya out (sort of). Uraraka hijacked that (sort of) date. Midoriya held onto his arm and then dragged him onto the ground laughing, and they had a moment. And it was a really pleasant moment. Feeling Midoriya pressed so closely to him was almost overwhelming, especially with Midoriya beaming. That sound he made certainly left an impression in his mind, and the way Midoriya’s giggles felt with their chests pressed together was divine. Overcome with so much emotion, Todoroki almost said something.

If Todoroki was being honest, he didn’t even know what he would have said.

“Will you go on a real date with me?” “How are you so pretty?” “Can you sleep over my room for reasons?” “I love you.” That last one sent a shiver down Todoroki’s spin. Although very true, the terminology was still new for him.

Asui had caught him off guard when she told him he loved Midoriya, but it was something he suspected for a long time. In the past, he would have mistaken his feeling for Midoriya for friendship simply because he had no real experience having friends. But now, Todoroki can recognize how different his relationship with Midoriya feels and looks compared to his other friendships. It’s not just that they are best friends. It’s more than that. 

He’s not sure if he should be frustrated with Asui, too, though, since she ruined that moment in the common room. He was about to open his mouth when he caught sight of Asui staring at the two of them. Tongue still being used as rope, she was grinning at Todoroki embracing Midoriya with nearly no room between the two of them. She raised an eyebrow. And just like that, the moment was ruined and Todoroki felt stifled. He needed to leave. So he did.   

Almost a full hour later, Todoroki finally attempted to sleep. He couldn’t help but imagine Midoriya next to him. He managed to fall asleep despite the bed feeling too cold.

Midoriya groaned, rolling over to check the time. He groaned again when he read 2:43am on his phone’s screen and noticed unread messages from V. 

“I should be asleep,” he mumbled before closing his eyes and rolling over. After a few moments, he rolled over again. Then he laid on his back. Then his stomach. Then squeezed his eyes tighter. He checked the time and saw that it was 3am, now. With a loader groan, he got out of bed, too wide awake to even try to nap.

He almost left before deciding to indulge his curiosity and read V’s texts:

Today 16:15

Chat: Tani and V

V: I do know

V: and you do, too

V: you are just scared to try because of the shit you’ve gone through

V: you deserve to be loved, Tani

V: confess

Midoriya choked up, and he successfully stopped some tears from escaping. 

Midoriya left his room, still clad in his All Might pajamas, and headed to the kitchen.

He might as well get some water. Maybe tea. Something to get rid of the lump in his throat.

Sleeping was a mistake. That is the first thought Todoroki had when he stared at his phone.

3am.

What in the world was he supposed to do at 3am when he couldn’t fall back to sleep? He felt jittery, and it was obvious he wouldn’t be able to sleep again for a good long while.

Sighing, Todoroki decided to put on a plain grey shirt and go to his desk. He briefly saw his reflection in the window when he was bending over to pick a book. 

He couldn’t see his scar at that angle, and he felt a pang of sadness. Even with his hair mixed together and in a grey t-shirt and baggy black sweatpants, Scarless Todoroki looked a little attractive. Tired? Sure. Comfortable? Yep. But definitely not ugly.

People would probably have crushes on Scarless Todoroki. Scarless Todoroki didn’t have to walk around with a permanent reminder that even his mother once thought he was a monster. He had less baggage, so maybe he was even a little more outgoing and sociable. Though maybe not. Even if he wasn’t, Scarred Todoroki could see Scarless Todoroki asking Midoriya out. He could even imagine Midoriya saying yes. He could imagine Scarless Todoroki and Midoriya being a disgustingly happy and affectionate couple unlike Scarred Todoroki and Midoriya right now.

Todoroki had trouble breathing. 

Moving just right, Todoroki’s scar came into view and the illusion was over. He quickly turned around, tried to get his breathing under control, and left the room. 

He headed to the kitchen without his book. It would still be quiet there. He could get some water if he felt inclined. Maybe tea, and the kitchen had no windows.

Win, win, win, really, compared to his room.

A quiet but startled “oh,” came from behind Midoriya. Turning around, he saw Todoroki. His hair was all messed up, not quite pink, but mixed enough that you couldn’t tell which side each color belonged to. The little knots in his hair were adorable, Midoriya thought, and he suddenly had a strong urge to either blend Todoroki’s hair further or slowly separate the red and white hairs back to their respective sides. Realizing his train of thought, Midoriya started turning red. 

“To-- Shou-chan!” Midoriya greeted, voice a little too loud to be a whisper but quiet enough not to wake anyone. “What are you doing up?”

Staring at Midoriya’s hands holding a glass of water in one hand, Todoroki replied with a “I would ask you the same thing, but it looks like you were thirsty.” Noticing the mug and the box of tea bags next to Midoriya, he added, “Were you making tea?” 

Midoriya laughed nervously. “I was thinking about it.”

Todoroki scrunched his eyes in a way that Midoriya felt was completely unfair. “Isn’t it 3am? Why do you want caffeine at this ungodly hour?” 

Midoriya snorted this time. “Ungodly hour?” Midoriya quietly released a genuine chuckle when Todoroki stared at him seriously and just replied with a “yes.”

“I couldn’t sleep,” Midoriya confessed. “I think my body decided to protest about sleeping most of the school day yesterday and my early bedtime last night.” 

Todoroki hummed in agreement. “Me, too.” There was a moment of silence while Midoriya took a sip of water, and they both stared in different directions.

“Wait,” Todoroki said in confusion, “You went to bed early last night?” Midoriya blinked a few times before nodding. “I thought you stayed with everyone in the common room.”

“I did,” Midoriya admitted, “well, sort of.” Seeing Todoroki’s confused expression, he elaborated. “I stayed probably for about thirty minutes after you left. I left when Iida was finally rescued from the ceiling,” Todoroki softly snorted, bringing a smile to Midoriya’s face, “and then I decided I should try to do some homework. V sort of hijacked that time, though.”

Todoroki raised an eyebrow. “It’s fine. It was good hijacking? Sort of?” Remembering V’s last texts, Midoriya could feel his face burning up. Before Todoroki could ask anything, Midoriya continued with, “Either way, I was too exhausted after my talk with her to attempt anymore homework and went to bed early. And here I am.” Midoriya gestured around him. “Thirsty and debating whether I should prepare my body to stay awake with ridiculous amounts of caffeine.”

“Although I was also debating having tea,” Todoroki gave Midoriya a look when Midoriya smirked, “I would suggest against it. It’s the weekend now, so we could at least try to nap at some point in the day.”

“I guess that’s true.” There was more silence as Todoroki grabbed his own glass and started filling it with water.

“Has V interviewed you yet?” The question left Midoriya’s mouth before he could even think about. He started turning red again, regretting it immediately. Todoroki didn’t seem to expect it either, pausing in pouring water from the pitcher.

“Not really? I asked her to postpone it until I woke up.”

“Ah,” Midoriya replied, slightly relieved.

Todoroki finished pouring his water and returning the pitcher to the refrigerator before he turned to Midoriya. Curiosity glittered in his eyes when he asked, “Does V’s quirk have to do with sleep?”

Midoriya was in the middle of sipping his water when Todoroki asked, and he did a mini spit take. “I-- wha--  Yes. How did you figure that out?”

Seemingly satisfied, Todoroki leaned against the counter next to Midoriya. “I looked up the time difference between here and the United States when I was suggesting a new time for our interview. When I asked V if she was really texting us at 3am, she mentioned that she ‘doesn’t exactly sleep.’ At first, I thought she was exaggerating about not sleeping like Kaminari does, but then I remembered her name on the group chat. She never mentioned her quirk, so I thought I should ask.”

“That’s really impressive, Shou-chan,” Midoriya mentioned, face filled with admiration. “She hasn’t given it a name yet because, and I quote this,” Midoriya explained before making air quotes, “‘My quirk name needs to be badass. Most of these names just sound like I need some sleep.’ End quote.”

Todoroki hummed again. “So what does her quirk do?”

“She doesn’t have to sleep. Period. Try not to mention it to the others unless she brings it up, though. It’s not exactly a secret, but...”  Midoriya paused again. “Just try not to, okay?”

Todoroki looked confused, but he nodded and said okay.

Midoriya hummed. “Knowing V, she’ll bring it up eventually, probably to brag about her current streak. Last time I asked her, she hadn’t slept for over five months.”

“Five months!” Todoroki exclaimed. Midoriya shushed him. “Sorry,” Todoroki whispered. “Five months? When was that?”

“About four months ago. She naps only when she gets bored. Napping is literally a way for her to pass the time. She has a lot of projects going on right now, so that doesn’t happen as often as it did when we were younger.”

“I meant to ask,” Todoroki started, “how long have you two known each other?”

“We met on an All Might online forum when we were six years old. We basically became pen pals with my mom monitoring us.”

“Wait, ‘we?’”

“Well, I guess since I was six and she was seven. We met each other online a week after her birthday. She just posted about a limited edition All Might figure she was gifted.” Midoriya chuckles before continuing, “I should probably be specific about our age difference since she likes to pull the ‘when I was your age’ joke on me all the time.”

“Oh.” Todoroki looked a little shocked.

“Are you...” Midoriya paused before continuing, “surprised?”

“I think a lot of folks are under the impression that V is in college.”  Midoriya bursted out laughing.

“No,” he said between fits, “she’s definitely not in college. She’s in high school like us, just in the US.”

“Oh.”

“Is that why Iida was so angry with me in class? I should probably clear up that misunderstanding. Why did you all think that anyway? She’s not exactly bursting with maturity. Oh, shit. That sounded bad. I just mean she’s not super serious? Oh no, that sounds worst. What I meant to say--”

“I think I understand, Midoriya. It’s fine.” Midoriya’s facial expression seemed to be a mix between a pout and a grimace. Todoroki was grinning. “No, she doesn’t act like she’s in college which isn’t a bad thing. I honestly can’t even point out what specifically made me think she was older than us.”

Midoriya sighed. “I should probably let everyone know anyway.”

“Yeah, you probably should.” Midoriya snorted. “Why did you just snort?”

“V would get a kick out of this whole situation. I should probably clear up the misunderstanding in the group chat so everyone can see her reaction. Plus, then she can tease all of you, too, instead of just me.”   

This time, Todoroki snorted, too. They both looked at each other and started laughing. Like in the common room before, they slowly stopped laughing with an occasional giggle escaping. And like in the common room earlier, they stared at each other with an intensity Midoriya couldn’t name afterwards.

“I’m really awake right now,” Midoriya admitted wiping away tears. Todoroki nodded in agreement. “But I really don’t want to go back to my room.”

“Yeah,” Todoroki agreed. They stared at each other for a few more moments before Midoriya got an idea. “Let’s watch something!”

Todoroki blinked a few times before responding. “Sure.” After a few more blinks, he continued, “Do you want me to get my laptop and headphones? My laptop has a bigger screen, and we won’t have to worry about waking anyone up with my headphones.”

“Great idea!” Midoriya exclaimed a little too loudly, jumping in enthusiasm. When he realized how loud he just was, he grimaced. “Whoops.” Todoroki’s grin was now a full out smile.

“Let’s meet in the common room in a few minutes. I’ll be right back.” And with that, Todoroki left the kitchen. Midoriya put away the mug and tea bags before grabbing both his glass of water and Todoroki’s. He hummed as he walked to the common room coach.