Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

     Sitting in the office, Hakaori kept her hands politely laid in her lap as the man before her reviewed her documentation. Her demeanour was calm and composed, but internally, she could hardly contain her nervousness. Separated only by a desk was the man (well, more of a human-mouse-cat-bear hybrid) who was going to make the judgement on whether or not she would find employment at this school. Of course, this wasn’t just any school, but rather one of the most esteemed hero schools in all of Japan, so gaining acceptance to work there, let alone teach, wasn’t likely.

     The small man hummed softly, laying down the final paper on his desk. The action was completely casual and benign, but as he reached for the steaming cup of tea to take a sip, Hakaori swore that he was moving in slow motion. Laying the cup down on its saucer again, he gazed up at her tentatively, a small smile creasing his lips.

     “ Well, after evaluating your efforts and accomplishments as a pro hero, even from another jurisdiction, I must say that your feats are quite impressive, Wasurenagusa-san,” he said with a gentle voice suiting his appearance. Hakaori quickly nodded and bowed her head slightly.

     “ Thank you, principal Nezu. It means a lot to receive such a compliment from you,” she replied. Did that sound too desperate? She mentally chided herself, responding to the self-scolding by smiling sweetly at the man before her. He returned the smile with his own.

     “ Admittedly, I am interested in what you could provide to this school, however, I would also like to evaluate your abilities to teach our students. May I ask you a question?” Principal Nezu asked, keeping his calm and approachable disposition.

     “ Of course!” Hakaori chirped, her eyes widening slightly.

     “ Splendid! Now… U.A. is a renowned school for heroes, as you know. We’ve raised many successful heroes, the likes of which you’ve most definitely heard of. Why do you think it’s important, as pro heroes, to teach at schools like our own U.A.?” He asked, leaning forward in his seat, his chin resting on his intertwined paws.

     A test. This question was definitely a test, and Nezu was looking for a particular answer. Hakaori paused as she tipped her head pensively. A few moments passed as she compiled her answer, finally breaking the silence once she felt it was complete.

     “ Well, simply put, so long as people have Quirks, there will be a need for heroes. But as such, we can’t be so narcissistic as to think that our generation of heroes can stop all crime. With that in mind, we must continue to train future generations of heroes-to-be, and pass down the fundamentals of what it takes to be a hero, as well as our own experiences in the field. Eventually, all of us current pros will retire or perish, so we have to do what we can to make sure we’re leaving the safety of our people in good hands,” she explained, shifting just slightly in her seat. Did that sound long-winded? The woman scanned the principal for some indication of his opinion, but Nezu only tapped his chin thoughtfully.

     “ Hm, that’s very true, Wasurenagusa-san. Very well put. But as a teacher to our students, it’s also important to remember that they can teach us just as much as we teach them,” he nodded again, pausing before continuing. “ That being said, I believe your core values coincide quite well with the ambition of our school. So, I have a proposition for you. For three months, I would like for you to work alongside one of our current teachers as an assistant. During this time, you’ll learn how our school functions and have a chance to direct some classes yourself. I will have the teacher you’re assigned to report to me about your strengths and weaknesses as an educator, and in three months time, we will re-evaluate you and your progress and make a more concrete decision then. How does that sound?”

     Hakaori nodded her head eagerly, though not too much so. “ That sounds fine to me.”

     Nezu lightly clapped his paws together in response. “ Wonderful! In that case, please report back to my office this coming Monday. Seven A.M. would be best. In that time, I will inform the teacher that you will be assisting of the situation. Oh! And make sure to wear your hero costume!” the small man replied, grinning widely. He seemed to sense her excitement, or perhaps he was equally excited about the opportunity. Regardless, she nodded, rising to her feet. Reflexively, she started to lift up her hand to shake his, only to catch herself and firmly place her hand back in her lap, instead bowing at the hips. Still adjusting to those cultural differences.

     “ Thank you very much, principal Nezu. I’ll see you on Monday at seven,” she replied as she straightened out of the bow. 

     “ In costume, don’t forget!” Nezu added.

     The two shared a brief chuckle before Hakaori departed.

     Monday would be her first day at U.A. But who would she be assisting?

**********

     Monday arrived so much earlier than expected.

     And of course she’d be running late.

     The start of the morning had gone fine. As per Nezu’s request, she slipped into her hero costume, putting her regular clothes on overtop of the suit. She slipped her mask and matching gloves into her bag; neither article was particularly hard to put on, so she thought it fit to put them on later. Examining herself in the mirror, she straightened out her hair and preened herself for a moment before heading downstairs.

     Fumiko, Hakaori’s younger sister, sat at the small dinner table in the kitchen, munching on a bowl of cereal as she stared blankly at the dim light of her phone screen. Hakaori grinned at her sister as she went over to the coffee machine, filling up her nearby travel mug.

     “ Good morning, Fumi-chan,” she piped, her voice betraying the anxiety and excitement in her voice. Her little sister rolled her eyes slightly in response. The two sisters looked like twins with their periwinkle hair and green-blue eyes, with only the apparent age difference separating them. And the fact that Hakaori wore her hair long and her sister preferred shorter styles. Oh, and their starkly contrasting personalities.

     “ Most people don’t get so excited about going to work,” Fumiko mumbled with signature pre-teen disinterest. Hakaori scoffed as she mixed her drink to her liking and closed it off with the lid.

     “ Yeah? Well I’m a crotchety old grown up who likes getting socks for Christmas and going to work,” Hakaori retorted, walking over to the door where she slipped on her boots. Fumiko spared her sister a passing glance before looking back to her phone.

     “ In case you get home before me, there’s some leftovers in the fridge that you can heat up,” Hakaori added as she collected her bag and coffee. “ Don’t be late for school!” The elder sibling finished as she stepped out the door and headed on her trek to U.A. It was a largely uneventful walk until Hakaori noticed a commotion nearby and, in true heroic fashion, rushed to assess the situation.

     And this is where her morning got messed up.

     As she approached the crowd, it became evident that a pro hero would be needed. Swiftly, the female hero discarded her civilian clothing and donned her mask and gloves from her bag. Within seconds, she went from being the regular old Wasurenagusa Hakaori to the Faithful Hero, Forget-Me-Not!

     Scanning the area, she spotted a tree close-by, which she promptly scaled to peer over the crowd. In front of everyone stood a large, unkempt man clutching a small boy. Sparks radiated from the man’s free hand, dangerously close to the boy's face. Meters away was an older woman being restrained by several of the bystanders. She was crying and screaming frantically; most likely the boy’s mother.

     “ Don’t any of yas come closer or I’ll fry this kid like a fish stick!” The man cried, amplifying his electricity in front of the boy, who screamed in response.

     “ Pl-please! Don’t hurt him! I’ll give you whatever you want! J-just- please! Don’t hurt my baby!” The woman shrieked, her voice in a hysteric timbre. The man backed up, squeezing the boy harder, making the poor child cough and sputter.

     There was no time to waste. Forget-Me-Not leaped from the tree, using the branch as a spring board. People quickly took notice and the crowd erupted into a loud ensemble of gasps and shouting, pointing at the costume-clad woman soaring through the air. Landing firmly and gracefully between the crowd and the man, Forget-Me-Not stood tall, her hands placed firmly on her hips.

     “ How dare you take an innocent child captive!” She shouted, using a boisterous and exaggerated tone, uncharacteristic of her normal speaking voice. “ Let him go this instant, or else!” She hated this campy superhero act, but the crowd soaked it up, shouting and cheering their support.

     “ Heh, whatever, girly. Do whatever you want. Come any closer and I’ll pop this kid’s head like a bloody balloon!” The man yelled, threatening the child with the electricity once again.

     Unphased, Forget-Me-Not began a strong and confident stride towards the criminal, ignoring the threat before her. Taking a step back, the man faltered, ceasing his electricity and instead grabbing the child’s face.

     “ I’m serious, lady! I-I’ll kill this kid!” He cried, his tone becoming panicked.

     “ Really? I’d like to see you try,” Forget-Me-Not responded, her voice radiating the composure and confidence of a hero. She was close enough now to lock eyes with the villain, staring him down unrelentingly. She had won.

     “ Psycho hero bitch! I warned you!” The man shouted again, tensing up his arm. The crowd collectively gasped and the mother cried out in helpless agony, seconds stretching to infinite proportions. As if time itself stopped, everyone waited.

     But nothing happened.

     “ Wh-what the Hell!?” The man cried, finding himself unable to use his electric Quirk. He didn’t even have time to compose as Forget-Me-Not was already upon him, using the prior seconds of suspense to close the distance between them. In a brisk and fluid movement, Forget-Me-Not kicked straight upward, her heel connecting hard with the man’s jaw. His teeth smashed together in a distinct crack as he staggered back, his grip on the boy slackening. Swooping in, the hero grabbed the boy and kicked again, outward this time, slamming her foot into the villain’s gut. This put some distance between the hero and her opponent, so she set the boy down on his feet.

     “ Quickly! Go to your mother!” She commanded. The boy simply sniffled and bolted for the crying woman. Seemingly neither had noticed the man had recovered enough to dive at the boy again, his entire body sparking like a taser.

     “ Fucking bitch! I’ll kill you BO-“ He began to yell before being caught by the outstretched arm and back of the neck. Electric currents surged through the heroine’s body, but in a perseverance characteristic of a true professional, she pushed through the electrocution, instead swinging the man clear over her head and pile driving him, head first, into the ground. The electricity quickly subsided, leaving the hero smoking, but standing. Police immediately poured in, quickly apprehending the unconscious criminal. Media crews swarmed in as well, surrounding the hero as they plundered her with questions.

     Laughing merrily and waving to the bystanders, Forget-Me-Not answered the barrage of questions, nonchalantly pulling out her phone to check the time.

     6:57 A.M.

     Eyes nearly bulging out of her head, Forget-Me-Not began pushing through the crowd of paparazzi, ignoring their questions as she zeroed in on an opening to escape. Taking off in a mad dash, she clumsily obtained her bag and now-spilled coffee, rushing towards U.A.

**********

     “ Well, that was quite the spectacle!” Nezu piped as he took a sip of tea. Across his desk sat the number one hero, All Might, who nodded in agreement, wearing his usual heroic grin. The two of them had been watching a live stream of the event, observing Forget-Me-Not’s efforts.

     “ Indeed! And you said she’s the one who will be assisting me for the next three months? It doesn’t look like she has too much to learn!” All Might bellowed in his usual heroic grandeur, laughing boisterously.

     “ No, she doesn’t, as far as being a hero goes. But she doesn’t have much experience in teaching. Hmm… not that you have much, either!” Nezu chuckled. All Might grunted softly at the low blow to his ego.

     “ Harsh words, my friend!... But true,” All Might responded thoughtfully, his grin never once wavering.

     “ This is just as much as test for you as it is for her. You’re the newest teacher here, and we’ve all had our chance to take on and teach an assistant. Now it’s your turn! Try not to teach her too many bad habits,” Nezu teased, taking a sip of tea. All Might opened his mouth to playfully retort the teasing, only to be cut short by the office door swinging open. Both men perked up to see who the intruder was.

     Forget-Me-Not stood in the doorway, her face flushed with exertion, her bag clutched in one hand and her spilled coffee in the other. Now, her hair was very much in a state of disarray, despite her earlier attempt to look presentable. Her chest heaved as she panted, bowing deeply to the men before her.

     “ Sorry I’m late! I got caught up on my way here-“ she began, only to be interjected by Nezu.

     “ No need for apologies or explanations! All Might and I saw everything on T.V. You were busy saving a little boy. I think I can excuse your tardiness for that.”

     “ Thank You very much! Er- did I interrupt you?” She asked, looking between the tiny principal and the imposing figure of All Might. He was much too large for the arm chair, looking cartoonishly big in comparison. She might’ve laughed if the situation were different.

     “ Not at all! Actually, All Might is the hero whom you’ll be assisting for the next three months,” Nezu explained, noting the obvious surprise on the woman’s face.

     “ It’s a pleasure to meet you!” The number one hero bellowed. Forget-Me-Not just stared blankly at him for a few moments, her brain still trying to process exactly what was happening.

     “ I’m going to be assisting All Might?...” was all she could murmur.

     “ Why, yes!” Nezu chirped, secretly indulging in the obvious shock on her face. All Might noticed it as well, letting out another hearty, guttural laugh.

     This would be interesting.

Chapter Text

     Flitting her gaze between the two men, her brain slowly digested the new information.

     She’d be assisting All Might, the number one hero in Japan. Probably the world. She’d be assisting him. What. Did she mention she’ll be assisting him?

     Snapping out of her fangirlish trance, she gave All Might a sweet smile, wadding up her anxiousness until it was but a small flicker in the back of her mind.

     “ You can call me Forget-Me-Not. The pleasure is all mine. I look forward to working with you,” she spoke calmly, professionally. Her professionalism shocked her; any nervousness previously apparent was stamped out now. 

     “ Good, then! All Might will show you where the staff room is and you can put your belongings there. Then he’ll briefly show you around the school and take you to class. You’ll be starting your actual work today, if you were curious,” Nezu explained, looking between All Might and Forget-Me-Not.

     Rising to his feet, All Might stepped forward, stopping once he was before the woman. She wasn’t that small of a lady, but now that All Might was standing right before her, she got a full appreciation of just how large of a man he was. Even standing perfectly straight, she barely came up past his ribs. Stepping to the side, she attempted to allow him through, only to have him gesture for her to pass first.

     “ Ladies first,” he said, making even such a simple phrase sound booming and heroic. She chuckled softly as she thanked him, walking through the threshold and meeting him in stride as he lead her to the staff room. Opening the door, she stepped in, flanked by the large hero.

     “ Behold! This is the staff room!” He bellowed, gesturing to the room before him like it was particularly grandiose. Forget-Me-Not stifled a snicker, looking up at him with a strange smile. The room itself was pretty standard as far as staff rooms go, but she appreciated his enthusiasm, even if a bit misplaced.

     “ Oh, erm, you can put your belongings in one of the lockers over there,” he added, his voice losing some of its grandeur as he pointed to the lockers nestled in the corner of the room.

     Had her smile been that scrutinizing? Looking at his body language, she could tell he was tense; standing a bit too rigidly, shoulders a bit too squared. Surely her presence didn’t make him nervous? Then again, she didn’t know much about him beyond his work as a hero and the persona he used for the public. Maybe he was timid? The thought of a timid All Might made her snicker softly as she approached a locker, choosing one that was higher up. Placing her items into the lockers (and hastily cleaning up her coffee mug), she returned to All Might, looking up at him expectantly. Casting a quick glance at his phone, All Might lead her back out the door, giving her a brief tour of the main areas of the school.

     “ … And if you look out there,” he motioned out the large window next to them, “ those are some of the training areas that the school uses for testing and improving Quirks!”

     “ Huh,” She murmured, looking out at the training grounds.

     “ Well, we’d best be heading to class soon. Right this way!” His voice bellowed as he lead her down another set of corridors. She trailed behind him, trying not to grin too widely at his exaggerated stride. He certainly was enigmatic, if not a bit eccentric.

     “ So, Forget-Me-Not, might I be so bold as to ask you something?” The larger hero asked, looking down at his smaller assistant.

     “ Oh! Um, yes, of course,” she replied, looking up at him with wide eyes.

     “ As Nezu mentioned, we observed your encounter today with that criminal. You came in direct contact with his electric Quirk- how did you withstand that? Is it something to do with your own Quirk?” His usual grin took a more inquisitive form as he looked down at her. She wasn’t really sure how a grin could look inquisitive, but he managed it.

     “ Oh, no- my Quirk doesn’t augment any of my physical abilities. It’s not very impressive in reality. My gloves and boots are heavily insulated with rubber, so a lot of that electrical current couldn’t fully ground,” the heroine explained. “ Though, it did sting quite a bit. I’m a bit worried that the pattern of my suit’s going to be burned into my skin!” She added with a chuckle. All Might joined in with his own boisterous laugh.

     “ Well, if you ever need it, there’s a nurse’s office with the school’s own Recovery Girl! Her rejuvenating abilities are a force to be reckoned with!”

     “ Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind,” Forget-Me-Not said, her voice returning to its calm and professional state. A few moments of awkward silence passed between the two as they rounded a corner.

     “ Hm, you said that your Quirk doesn’t enhance your physical abilities. With how well you handled yourself against that criminal, your strength is quite impressive! Though I noticed that he was unable to use his Quirk at one point; is your Quirk an erasure type?” All Might asked, looking down at Forget-Me-Not again.

     She shook her head as she replied, “ not exactly. My Quirk can be used like an erasure type in certain situations, but that’s not what it does specifically. It can be used more broadly than that.”

     “ I see,” All Might tapped his chin pensively, “ and I suppose that, from your vague response, you aren’t keen on telling me what your Quirk is?”

     “ Well, it does give you a distinct advantage when your opponent doesn’t know what your Quirk is,” she answered cryptically. “ But I’m sure you’ll figure it out.”

     A bit unsure of how to respond, All Might stared down at the littler hero. She met his stare squarely, giving him a small coy smile. He maintained their gaze for a moment before snapping out of it, laughing boisterously to stanch his awkwardness.

     “ I’m afraid I’ve lost my train of thought! How unusual for me,” he admitted, laughing again. “ Regardless, here we are! The first class of the day! One-A. Oh-“ He leaned in closer, lowering his voice, “ I teach Foundational Hero Studies, by the way. Well! Let us enter!” He bellowed before entering the door abruptly, proudly announcing that he was here! Forget-Me-Not followed behind him, keeping her composure and exuding as much confidence as possible.

     All at once, a full classroom of eyes was staring at her. There wasn’t much that was more nerve-racking than standing in front of a class of judgmental first-year students, but she stood fast, taking her place next to All Might at the front center of the room.

     “ Good morning, students!” All Might boomed, only to be greeted by a fairly dull chorus of young voices- except for one boy with disheveled dark hair and freckles. That boy seemed to nearly explode with suppressed excitement.

     “ This lovely hero here is Forget-Me-Not! She will be assisting my classes for the next few months,” the great hero explained, grinning his usual, wide grin. The students kept their attention on her, waiting for some sort of response. She indulged them, giving a wide smile of her own.

     “ That’s right! Now, I don’t have much experience in teaching, but I do have quite a bit of experience in hero work and disciplining children, so don’t make me too mad, okay?” She said with saccharine voice that was just slightly too much so. She gave the class a quick wink, hoping to help create an atmosphere of playfulness… and maybe a bit of intimidation so she didn’t immediately get hazed by the students.

     Most of the students gazed at her with wide eyes, others were calmer- or completely disinterested, as in one blonde-haired boy’s case.

     Letting out a bellowing laugh (which Forget-Me-Not quickly learned was a great attention-grabbing tactic), All Might pulled the class from their unrelenting stares and began the lesson. It was surprisingly tame, save for All Might’s eccentric behaviour. The heroine mostly resigned herself to an observation role, only speaking when All Might requested an answer from her or occasionally answering a question or two when the class was stumped. Soon, it was over, and the two heroes migrated around the school to teach a few more classes. There was an unexpected amount of theory, but, as with most things, theory must come before application.

     The end of the classroom hopping yielded a total of three classes. They were all clustered together, which left the remainder of the school day to do other teacherly things. Like paperwork. 

     Sitting down on the couch in the staff room, Forget-Me-Not peered up at All Might as he brought a large stack of papers in one hand, a smaller stack in the other. His grin was more sinister than usual…

     “ Since we’re done for the day, as far as classes go, I’ve decided what you can do in the mean time!” He announced, slapping the stacks of papers down before her. Pointing a large finger at the smaller stack, he continued, “ these are your answer keys,” he then pointed to the larger stack. “ And these are the assignments!”

     “ You… want me to grade assignments?” The smaller hero asked, unable to fully hide the surprised exasperation in her voice.

     “ Of course! How better to learn about your students? It’ll also refresh your mind on Foundational Studies!” He elaborated, letting out his guttural laugh for the umpteenth time today.

     There was a brief pause while All Might continued his laughter.

     “ … You just don’t like doing paperwork, do you?” Forget-Me-Not said, making no attempt to hide her bluntness. That stopped the laughing pretty quickly.

     Another pause.

     “ No, not terribly,” was all he mustered. Despite his huge presence, he seemed to shrink and deflate. The sight was enough to make the woman laugh. A genuine, real laugh.

     “ You remind me of a kid who got caught taking an extra candy from the jar!” She cried merrily. Composing herself again, she cleared her throat. “ Sorry.” But it was evident that she wasn’t really sorry.

     “ No worries! It’s good to see you’re relaxing!” All Might responded with all his heroic pomp.

     “ Do you have a pen?”

**********

     Well, it took nearly the rest of the day, but she managed to finish marking every last assignment. Carefully gathering up the sheets, she rose to her feet and retrieved her personal belongings. Heading out into the corridor, she realized she had no clue where his office was… so she hunted for it. To no avail. Heading down another corridor, she noticed a man in black exiting one of the rooms.

     “ Excuse me!” She called, trotting toward the man. He turned around slowly, and the expression he wore stopped her in her tracks. His face was largely obscured by long black hair, but she could see his bloodshot eyes staring at her from behind it. If a bad day was a person, it was this guy.

     “ U-um, I’m new All’s Might- er, no, wait- I’m All Might’s new teacher’s assistant! But I don’t know where his office is. Could you, er, tell me where it is, please?” She stammered, completely discombobulated by this guy.

     He just sized her up briefly, staring at her for an uncomfortable amount of time. Finally, he raised his hand and pointed to the door just across the hallway from where they were standing.

     “ Right there,” he muttered. Well, it was more of a grunt, really.

     “ O-oh. Er. Whoops…” she murmured, bowing slightly. “ Thank you,” she added, her face boiling from embarrassment. Quickly, she disappeared through the door, so desperate to get away from Bad-Day-Guy that it never occurred to her to knock first. Taking a deep breath, she looked ahead at the desk and the person seated there.

     Who was definitely not All Might. What.

     “ Oh, Sorry! Um, I was told that this is All Might’s office. Did I get the wrong room?” She asked, her voice straining slightly with nervousness. She inhaled, pulling herself together.

     The man eyed her curiously. He was a tiny man; long and extremely thin. His blond hair was disheveled and looked pretty fried. He needs a better conditioner she thought. His eyes were deeply sunken in; she could only see blue irises from the depths of those sockets. He coughed and lightly wiped his mouth.

     “ No, you have the right room,” he said. His voice sounded a bit familiar, but she couldn’t place exactly where she’d heard it before. She continued her blank stare, which told him that she still wasn’t understanding the situation.

     “ My name is Toshinori, I’m All Might’s secretary. You must be Forget-Me-Not, his new assistant?” Toshinori asked.

     “ Oh! That makes more sense. Yes, I’m his new assistant. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Toshinori-san,” she replied, giving him a kind smile and bow before she walked over to the desk. She place both stacks of paper before him, looking up at him with a bit of uncertainty.

    “ He had asked me to mark these assignments for him. I just wanted to return them since I’m finished with them. Perhaps he could go over them to make sure I marked them adequately-“

     “ You finished them that quickly!?” Toshinori blurted, a bit of blood spurting from his mouth. Reflexively, Forget-Me-Not leaned in to help, but he put his hand up to back her away. “ I’m fine. It happens from time to time.”

     “ Oh… er… well, okay… but yes, I’m finished with them. Would you be able to give them to him for me?” She asked, studying the man warily. Coughing up blood was never a good thing, let alone normal…

     “ Yes, of course. I’ll get these to him as soon as I see him next. Thanks for bringing them to me,” he replied, his composure seemingly returning.

     “ Thank you, Toshinori-san. Have a good night,” she said, her voice falling to a lower, gentler tone. The heroine gave him another smile as she walked to the door, giving a brisk wave while mouthing “bye” as she left.

     Silence filled the room after her departure.

     “ Damn, she’s good,” he nodded, regarding the stacks of paper before him thoughtfully.

**********

     “ How was your first day at grown up school?” Fumiko asked as she stuffed some leftover dinner into her mouth. Hakaori sat on the couch next to her (they weren’t really dining room people), also munching on her own supper.

     “ It was good. Surprisingly normal for hero school. Guess I forgot how normal it actually is. Oh- the teacher I’m working with made me do all his grading for him,” the elder sister explained. Fumiko crinkled her nose.

     “ What a dee-ouche,” Fumiko observed. Hakaori couldn’t help snicker, nearly choking on her dinner.

     “ Language!” She chided between chuckles, “ he’s not a douche, he’s just really busy.”

     “ Who is it? It’s all heroes there, isn’t it? Oo- is it Eraser Head!? He’s so hot,” Fumiko pried, suddenly staring at her sister with large, dilated pupils. Hakaori turned her gaze away.

     “ You wouldn’t believe me if I told you,” Hakaori responded.

     “ Then look at me and I will!” The younger sibling cried. Hakaori sighed in defeat.

     “ I’m the T.A. for All Might,” Hakaori said simply. Fumiko perked upright.

     “ No waaaaaaay! Don’t you have, like, the monster hots for him!?” She cried again. Hakaori actually did choke on her food this time.

     “ NO! Oh my goodness, Fumiko! You are three decades too young to be talking about ‘hots’ for anyone!” Hakaori reprimanded, shooting a look at her sister. Fumiko only grinned widely when their eyes connected.

     “ I totally have the hots for him- ACK-“ Hakaori blurted, temporarily having no control over her mouth. “ What did I tell you about Quirking me!?” The flustered older siblings yelled, giving her sister a shove. The little menace only cackled maniacally, finally deciding to relent, leaving her sister to stew in her flustered panic.

     “ I saw you online today; saving that little boy.”

     “ Oh yeah?” Hakaori inquired, looking at her sister again.

     “ Yeah! You were super lame,” the younger added, relishing in the obvious disgruntlement she caused her sibling.

     “ Why are you such a SNOT!?” Hakaori cried again.

     Yelling and laughing filled the night air.

Chapter Text

     The next couple weeks played out quite similarly to the first day. Hakaori, as Forget-Me-Not, assisted All Might during the classes, though she was starting to take on a more active role in teaching. He had even let her lead some of them, which she found herself more and more comfortable with.

     Now, as she stood outside with All Might, the heroine was going to lead her first major exercise. The number one hero had given her plenty of time to come up with an exercise and what she would be testing them on. This was going to be lead purely by her, and she was about to make the big reveal. The students, clad in their hero costumes, regarded her curiously as they waited for her to explain.

     “ Good morning, everyone!” She called in a friendly but projected voice. There wasn’t much of a response from the crowd, so she continued, “ As you know, today, we’re going to be doing an exercise. Now, this particular exercise is going to be quite similar to one that you did previously, however, I’m going to be factoring in and considering different variables. So! Let’s start by breaking you down into groups. Iida-san, Todoroki-san, Bakugo-san, and Yaoyorozu-san, please step forward and join me up here.”

     The students looked at each other before the four chosen stepped forward, taking their places next to Forget-Me-Not.

     “ Good! Now, as we’ve been studying in class, this exercise is going to focus a lot more on the responsibilities of being a pro hero. So, you four,” she turned her head towards her selected students, “ are going to be villains. Behind us is a city replica,” she gestured to the large mock city behind them, “ in which the villains are going to destroy as much as possible. On the streets and in every building are mannequins. These mannequins represent civilians. Why would I make a point of mentioning this? Mineta-san?” The assistant teacher asked, turning her attention to a small student who’s costume resembled a bunch of grapes.

     “ O-oh! Uh… w-well, ‘cause we’re heroes, so we’re, uh, supposed to save…people…?” The grape child stuttered, looking at her uncertainly. Honestly, he really just wanted to see her butt since her boobs weren't all that impressive.

     “ Exxxxxxactly! As heroes, we want three things: protect civilians, minimize collateral damage, and ultimately catch the villains! But remember,” her smile faded as her voice grew somber, “ buildings can be rebuilt, there will always be another chance to catch a villain, but once a life is taken, it can never be restored. As a hero, I always prioritize the safety of bystanders. That would be my biggest piece of advice to you all, as up and coming heroes yourselves. Now!” Forget-Me-Not’s voice shot back up in joviality, “ enough of the heavy stuff. As you might have guessed, the rest of you are going to be the heroes, so I want you to break off into four groups of four. Aaaaaaaand go!” She yelled.

     The remaining students began dispersing, arranging themselves into groups of four. After a few minutes, four distinct clusters had emerged, looking at their teacher’s assistant expectantly.

     “ The city has been broken down into four quadrants. Each quadrant will have four heroes and one villain. Heroes! I want you to prioritize rescuing our civilians. Each quadrant has one-hundred mannequins to be saved over the span of ten buildings and corresponding streets,” she produced four maps, walking over and handing one map to each group before returning to her previous position at the front of the class.

     “ On each map is a designated Safe Zone for each quadrant. These areas are where you must bring the rescued mannequins to. And do be mindful of the condition of the mannequins- a civilian in multiple pieces isn’t going to be doing very well. Does everyone understand?”

     There was a pause before the students gave their clearance.

     “ Good! Now, you’ll be marked together as a group and your score will be out of one-hundred- one mannequin, one point. Make sure you work together and strategize to maximize your chances at saving as many civilians as possible. You must all be tired of listening to me at this point, so onward to your quadrants! You’ll have ten minutes to prepare a strategy and get into position. Good luck!” The woman bellowed as the heroes-to-be dispersed, heading off to their designated areas. Turning to the villains, she gave a wide grin.

     “ Excuse me, Forget-Me-Not, but how are we going to be graded?” Iida asked, his voice carrying its usual rigid uniformity.

     “ Wonderful question, Iida-san! Now, to be frank, breaking and destroying things is a lot easier than protecting and preserving. As such, your grades will be individual, with destroyed mannequins being worth half a point each. Buuuut, taking down an entire building will be worth ten points each. So really, you have the potential to get one-hundred-fifty percent on this test if you destroy every building and every mannequin. That’s not likely, though,” she explained with a smile as she handed each ‘villain’ a map detailing each quadrant. “ Oh, and no attacking the Safe Zones.”

     Iida and Yaoyarozu both looked a bit unnerved- their Quirks weren’t well oriented for destruction, whereas Bakugo was a literal walking grenade and Todoroki’s ice and fire could wreak havoc. Neither boy looked particularly concerned.

     “ Alright, go get ready! Good luck and have fun breaking stuff!” She chimed as the last four students made their way to their areas.

     Exhaling deeply, she looked up at the large hero, giving him a small smile.

     “ You’ve been awfully quiet,” she remarked.

     “ Well, it was your time to shine! I must say, you’ve definitely put a lot of thought into this exercise,” All Might bellowed. Forget-Me-Not simply blushed slightly and scratched her cheek.

     “ Er… thanks,” the smaller hero murmured.

     “ Well, let us go to the observation area and watch this unfold!” He boomed. With a nod, they both headed up to watch the students in action.

*********

     It was like a bad action movie.

     Buildings were exploding and collapsing left, right, and center. Students were scurrying around, hefting as many mannequins as they could carry to the Safe Zones. Forget-Me-Not could only watch as the chaos ensued.

     “ I must say, I feel bad for the heroes who’re up against Bakugo-san and Todoroki-san. Their Quirks have such destructive power,” the heroine admitted as she watched the various displays. All Might only laughed at her worries.

     “ Worry not! You’ll find that these students are quite resourceful!” He boasted, pride emanating from him as he continued, “ besides, I’m sure you’ve structured this exercise as you have for a reason!”

     She couldn’t help but chuckle at his response. It was like watching a proud father brag about his kids.

     “ Well, you’re not wrong. I did structure this exercise intentionally,” she acknowledged without delving too much further into detail. All Might eyed her curiously.

     “ You don’t seem to like elaborating much, do you?” The number one hero pointed out.

     Forget-Me-Not snickered before responding, “ it’s not that. I’ve just spoken so much today! I’m getting tired of hearing myself, but I can explain if you really want me to,” she teased, using a pleasant by coy tone.

     “ If I’m honest, I’m just trying to understand you better!” All Might boomed before breaking out into laughter.

     “ If there’s anyone to understand, it’s you,” she retorted playfully, looking back up at the screens. He returned his attention to them as well. Superficially, at least. He was having a bit of trouble focusing while another thought lingered in his mind.

     “ Well… then perhaps we can get to know each other better,” he finally suggested, eyeing her from the corner of his gaze.

     She snorted. “ How so?”

     All Might tapped his chin thoughtfully. He already knew what he wanted to say, but didn’t want to seem too eager, so he feigned thinking.

     “ Perhaps over dinner?” The mighty hero offered. Forget-Me-Not cast a sideways glance at him before turning her attention back to the screens.

     “ How about we discuss this later?” She asked. That was just formality, though. Her tone made it clear that she was done with the topic, but it was just kind enough to imply that perhaps she wasn’t completely uninterested? Then again, it wasn’t like the number one hero was used to being refused.

     “ Later, then!” He bellowed, letting out his hearty laughter. It was more tense than usual- had she unnerved him? The thought made her snicker.

**********

     After just over half an hour, the exercise was complete and the class was over. The heroine ventured out to analyse the practice grounds alone- All Might had apologized for being unable to help, but he had “places to be.” He hadn’t brought up the dinner invitation again.

     Clutching a clip board, she investigated all of the Safe Zones for the retrieved mannequins. Marking down numbers and brief notes, she quickly discovered that the four groups of students had done remarkably well. She smiled approvingly- most of the mannequins were present and in good condition.

     Wandering through the debris of the four quadrants, she began marking all of the destruction and havoc that villains had wreaked. There was virtually nothing left of Bakugo’s and Todoroki’s quadrants. Even Iida and Yaoyorozu had done a huge amount of damage to the buildings. All in all, the class had performed well. Grinning to herself, Forget-Me-Not returned inside, collecting the recorded footage of the students in action and headed to the staff room. Propping up her tablet on the table and plugging in some headphones, she flipped to a new page on her clip board and began the painstakingly slow process of analyzing the performance of each student. More than that, she began writing responses to them: what they did well, what they could improve on... they weren’t huge responses, but she was careful to fill them with as much useful information as she could.

     She had been so enraptured in her work that she hadn’t noticed the new presence entering the room.

     Toshinori eyed her curiously, smiling slightly at how intent and focused she was. He walked over to her, leaning slightly to peer at her screen.

     “ Working hard?” He asked. Apparently, she still hadn’t noticed him as the poor woman nearly jumped out of her skin and decked him. He threw his hands up and backed away a bit, stammering an apology. Popping the headphones out of her ears and pausing the video, Forget-Me-Not smiled apologetically to him.

     “ I’m sorry, Toshinori-san! You surprised me,” she explained, looking up at him. He just waved his hand dismissively.

     “ Mind if I sit next to you?”

     She responded by scooting over on the couch for him. Taking a seat next to her, he looked at the screen and notes more thoroughly.

     “ What’re you doing?” He eyed the notes- they were pretty messy but there was a lot written in them.

     “ I’m reviewing an exercise the students did today and giving feedback to them. It looks chaotic right now, but it’s all a part of my thinking process,” she explained, lightly tapping her head with her pen for emphasis.

     “ For each student in the class?” He asked, his brow raising slightly in disbelief.

     “ Yep. It’s one thing to point out someone’s mistakes, but I like to take it a step further and tell them how they could correct themselves. Feedback is a powerful tool,” she explained, her voice sounding fond as she smiled.

     She’s much more open with me in this form, Toshinori noted as he nodded his head. Silence passed between them before either spoke again. The frail man shifted slightly, garnering the attention of the hero next to him.

     “ Not… that it’s any of my business, but…” he started. He knew he shouldn’t be using his forms like this, but he just had to know why. “ All Might told me that you rejected dinner with him.”

     She snickered- not the reaction he was expecting.

     “ You must be his secretary and confidant,” she said between snickers. He couldn’t fight the warmth in his cheeks and he coughed softly.

     “ So, he took it as rejection, huh?” She asked. He looked at her inquisitively.

     “ Are you saying it wasn’t?”

     More snickers.

     “ No. People tell me I give the cold shoulder, but that’s not it. I just say what I mean and mean what I say.” Her tone was so simple and matter-of-fact. It made him embarrassed to think he’d nearly shot himself in the foot at the chance to get closer to her.

     “ You can tell him that, if he’s really so inclined to have dinner with me,” she added as she put her tablet into sleep mode and gathered her things. The excited look he gave her was so misplaced, she almost couldn’t fight back her laughter. “ You’re a good friend to him, Toshinori-san. Tell him that I said you deserve a raise, too.”

     “ A-alright, I will. Oh- um…” he stuttered, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. “ He, er, he asked me to ask you something else. Er, if all went well.”

     “ And that is…?” She probed. He fidgeted awkwardly; whatever it was was making him nervous.

     “ He wanted me to get your phone number, too,” he admitted, his cheeks flushing even redder. She noticed his blush and laughed.

     “ Goodness, he makes you do a lot of the heavy lifting, huh?” She continued to laugh as she tore a scrap from her clipboard and wrote something on it. She handed it to him as she spoke again, “ you can have it, too. Anything else before I go?”

     He actually paused to think about it.

     “ No, that’s it,” he answered, his tone definite. She laughed again and smiled at him- that lovely, sweet smile… he had to look away and cough.

     “ Alright. Have a good night, Toshinori-san. And give All Might a kick in the pants for me. He’s a grown man, he can do these things himself!” She reprimanded jokingly. He only nodded rigidly.

     “ Okay,” he said.

     Heading to the door, she stopped and turned, staring at him for longer than what was probably socially acceptable before finally leaving. Hadn’t All Might been wearing a similar suit before…?

**********

     Sitting on her couch in her own home, Hakaori had opted for some comfy sweatpants and a camisole for the night. She had her tablet in her lap, resuming her work from before. Fumiko was laying on the floor in front of the couch, engrossed in a video game she was playing.

     “ So, All Might asked me out on a date,” the elder sibling said nonchalantly.

     The controller clattered loudly on the floor. Fumiko shot upright onto her knees, staring at her sister with saucer plates for eyes.

     “ Like, date-date or, like, benign-probably-work-related-but-you’ve-blown-it-out-of-proportion date?” The little sibling pried, leaning closer to her sister.

     “ He asked me to dinner,” Hakaori clarified, staring at Fumiko.

     “ Awwwwwwwwwe shiiiit sis!” The little menace cried, grinning widely.

     “ Language!” Hakaori barked. “ I didn’t accept right away. Apparently he took my lack of immediate acceptance as refusal and sent his secretary in to pry about why I said no.”

     Fumiko thought this was hilarious. She was literally rolling on the floor, laughing.

     “ That’s- that’s so fifth grade! What!?” She bellowed, tears collecting in the younger girl’s eyes. Hakaori rolled her eyes and felt a vibration, looking to her phone. She had a text from an unknown number. She opened it, reading the contents inside:

>>Good evening! It is I, All Might!

     “ Huh. He actually gave him my number,” Hakaori muttered as she typed her response:

>Hello. How do I know you’re actually All Might?

>>That’s a reasonable concern! Allow me to prove myself!

>>Toshinori told me that you were, in fact, interested in going out to dinner with me!

>How do you know this is the right number?

     A pause.

>>Well, Forget-Me-Not doesn’t strike me as the type of woman to give the wrong number!

     Flattery. Ugh, Flattery works so well, she thought.

>Haha, okay. I’ll stop teasing you now.

>>Much appreciated! So, would you be available to go out to dinner on Sunday evening?

>That sounds fine. What time? I’ll be free for the entire evening.

>>Hm… how about 6:30?

>Sounds good.

>>Is there anything you prefer to eat?

>Italian.

>>Lovely choice! I’ll see you then!

     Toshinori sat on the edge of his bed, looking down at the shaking little screen, one hand rubbing his left side. 

     Why did it have to be Italian?

Chapter Text

     The next few days were surprisingly lacking in awkwardness. As a matter of fact, every time Hakaori, as Forget-Me-Not, saw All Might or spoke with him, her stomach would flutter with butterflies. She couldn’t help but mentally scold herself in these moments; she’s supposed to be a grown woman and an established hero- not some sort of lovesick schoolgirl. Though, at the same time, it was refreshing to feel so excited about someone again; it wasn’t a feeling she was accustomed to, nor had she felt in recent times.

     Adding to her mood was the reaction she got from the students when she gave them their grades. Everyone was satisfied with their marks, and they all appreciated the feedback she has given them. Sure, she’d lost some sleep over the extra work, but seeing their responses to her hard work made her heart swell. It was definitely worth it.

     Finishing class for the day, Forget-Me-Not met in stride with All Might before he could do his usual disappearing act. 

     “ Hello, Forget-Me-Not! Did you need something?” The number one hero boomed, grinning down at her. She responded by bringing her finger to her lips and shushing softly.

     “ It’s about tomorrow,” she whispered harshly. Clueing into what she was trying to do, All Might looked around furtively before rounding a corner with her, stooping somewhat so he was closer to her.

     “ What is it?” He whispered back. It struck the woman as strangely funny to hear All Might whisper. But she couldn’t focus on that now!

     The small hero regarded him seriously as she spoke, “ I think we should meet at the restaurant, and not together, either.”

     He gave her that silly inquisitive grin he always makes when she confuses him.

     “ I think it would be safer so someone doesn’t snap a picture of us and sends it circulating through the media,” she explained, giving him an expectant expression. “ Especially since we work together and you’re technically my superior. Oh, and I’m not particular on getting ripped to shreds by angry internet fangirls.”

    “ That… is a splendid idea!” He boomed… in whisper form. “ But you don’t need to worry once we’re actually inside; I’ve already dealt with that!”

     Forget-Me-Not nodded, straightening up.

     “ That’s all I wanted to talk about. See you later,” she said in her usual tone, giving him a fond smile. Maybe his ears were playing tricks on him, but her voice sounded especially sweet lately…

     No, Toshinori! It’s because you’re a love-struck puppy, his brain chided.

     “ Don’t work too hard!” He responded before they went their separate ways, giving no hint to the mental punishment he just gave himself.

**********

     It was now Sunday afternoon.

     Hakaori stood in front of her closet, peering at all of the things hanging inside.

     What are clothes?

     She started the long, arduous process of picking out an outfit. And soon gave up. Fashion was just not her forté…

     “ Fumi-chaaaaaaaaaaan!” She called out the door. After a few minutes, Fumiko poked her head into her sister’s room.

     “ What? Can’t you see I’m busy staring blankly at my phone?” The teenager muttered, staring at Hakaori with blatant disinterest.

     “ I need help picking out an outfit…” Hakaori whined, looking at Fumiko with her best pout.

     “ Ugh, fine. I’ll help if you stop making that ugly-ass face,” the little sibling muttered, stepping into the bedroom. She was amazed when her older sister didn’t chastise her for swearing.

     “I want to look eye-catching and attractive. But not, er, provocative. I like modesty,” Hakaori elaborated, sitting down on the edge of the bed.

     “ I think I have a nun costume,” Fumiko teased as she began sifting through the closet. She cackled when her sister huffed incredulously.

     After going through the closet a few times, Fumiko finally settled on a dress. Plucking it out, it was a navy blue, form-fitted dress that fell just below the knees. There was a slit on the right side of the skirt, and the top was held up by two satin straps that fastened around the neck.

     “ This is a nice dress. Didn’t think you’d own something like this. It’s a little riské for a prude like you- have you even worn it before?” Fumiko jeered, turning towards her sister.

     “ Only once, back in high school. I was a little more adventurous then,” Hakaori replied, rolling her eyes.

     “ Aha! That explains the size. Well, try this one and see if your fat ass still fits. I think I got some heels that’ll go nicely with it,” Fumiko said as she moseyed out of the room, tossing the dress on top of the elder sister.

     Hakaori pulled the garment off her head and looked at it, feeling a surge of nervousness. Maybe she really had gotten too big for it… only one way to find out. Rising to her feet and stripping down to only her panties, she slipped into the dress. It took a bit of effort and adjusting, but she managed, stepping in front of her mirror to examine herself. The dress hugged her snuggly and she couldn’t help the self conscious flutters in her stomach. Really, it wasn’t any tighter than her hero costume, but as she lifted her leg and it peaked out of the slit, she couldn’t help but feel she was selling herself out. A catcall from behind snapped her out of her trance before she could wreak much more havoc on her self confidence.

     “ Hey, who knew you could actually look hot?” Fumiko teased, though the smile on her face suggested that she meant it as a compliment.

     “ Careful. You’re looking at yourself in ten years,” Hakaori responded playfully, returning her gaze to the mirror. “ Do you really think it looks okay…? You don’t find I look… hootchy?”

     “ Oh yeah. Those convents are seriously not gonna take you now. Such a whore,” Fumiko said, voice dripping with sarcasm, as she walked over, holding up a pair of elegant black heels. Stiletto heels.

     “ Those… look like death traps,” Hakaori observed, scrutinizing the shoes.

     “ Well yeah, but they’ll make your legs look hella good!” Fumiko reiterated, grinning widely. “ Just humour me, will you?” She asked.

     Mumbling to herself, Hakaori obliged and put on the heels. They fit fine, and she could even walk in them!... and they really did make her legs look good.

     “ See!? Now I just gotta do your hair and you’re gonna be a bombshell!” Fumiko exclaimed, admiring her handiwork thus far. She hopped onto Hakaori’s bed, pointing at the spot before her. “ Sit!” She commanded.

     Rolling her eyes playfully, the elder sister seated herself before the younger, soon finding her hair being lightly tugged as Fumiko began to style it.

     “ I’m gonna do, like, a bun, but it’s going to be a really cool bun. Not like a mom-bun, but a professional, I’m-a-sexy-prude bun,” Fumiko explained as she tugged and twisted her sister’s hair. Hakaori winced a few times- even her heroic training couldn’t brace her against her sister’s torturous hairstyling.

     “ Can you leave my curl out?” Hakaori requested, pointing to the loose ringlet framing the right side of her face. It was the signature curl of the women in their family; every single one had the same little ringlet on the right side of their face.

     “ Yeah… Yeah! That’ll look cute!” Fumiko agreed, leaving her sister’s precious curl untouched. After a few moments of tweaking and hair-pulling, Fumiko relented, nodding in satisfaction.

     “Are you done?” Hakaori asked, looking over her shoulder at her sister.

     “ Yup! Go look at yourself!” Fumiko chirped, beaming at her.

     Standing up, Hakaori walked over to the mirror to peer at herself again. Taking in the full sight, she actually blushed. She had to admit- she looked good. Turning to her sister again, she gave her a sheepish smile.

     “ I… I look really good. Thank you, Fumi-chan…” Hakaori murmured, her embarrassment leaking into her voice.

     “ Yeah you do! Like, I surprised myself. You better bring some condoms ‘cause damn, he might not be able to hold back,” Fumiko chimed, cackling after when her sister exploded into redness.

     “ Where do you learn all these crass things!?” Hakaori cried, making Fumiko laugh harder.

     “ You better get on your way there. It’s already six,” Fumiko said simply, dodging her sister’s question.

     “ Already!?” Hakaori squeaked before grabbing her purse and dashing out the door.

     Walking down the street, listening idly to the clacking of her heels on the cement, Hakaori made her way to the agreed upon restaurant. Each step brought more anxiety and butterflies to her stomach. She was only now realizing what exactly was happening- she was going on a date with All Might. The number one hero. The Symbol of Peace. Catching a glimpse of herself in a store window, she really did look attractive. But was she too dressed up? Not dressed up enough? What if she was reading the situation wrong? Was this actually a date? Self consciousness began creeping up on her again. Sure, she was a pro hero, but she couldn’t even dream of being in the same league as him.

     No, she scolded herself. He might be an amazing hero, but he’s human, too. He’s not something greater; something beyond mortal. Stop psyching yourself out.

     Nearby shrieking brought her back to reality. Without thinking twice, she dashed towards the noise, her balance and speed heavily compromised by her cumbersome heels.

     A huge wolf-man burst out of a store, carrying a large bag full of what appeared to be money. The store owner flew out after him, yelling obscenities to the thief.

     “ I’ll stop him!” Hakaori yelled as she dashed past the owner, still much faster than the man, even in her heeled state. She made a mental note that she wasn’t wearing her costume and would need to be more careful than usual.

     The wolf-man glanced at her and snarled, stopping abruptly and turning on his haunches.

     “ Hey! You’re that bitch who put my friend in jail!” He roared, his voice barely human. Hakaori just gave him her best pompous smirk.

     “ Oh? He was your friend, huh? Well, scum begets scum, I suppose,” she jeered, staring the man down. Her Quirk wouldn’t be useful in nullifying his, but she could still use it to her advantage.

     “ Oh, this is gonna be satisfying… I’m gonna tear you to shreds and bring your head when I bust him out!” The thief shouted as he lunged at her, teeth bared. Hakaori repositioned, lifting her fists, steadying herself on her feet. She kept her eyes firmly locked on his, and just as he was about to come down on her…

     Hesitation. His eyes widened, blanking. What was happening-

     Crack.

     Hakaori’s fist shot upward, smashing the criminal squarely under his jaw. His head snapped backwards and he stumbled back a few steps, only to recover much more quickly than expected. Within a mere second, he was back, his awful muzzle sneering as drool leaked from his mouth.

     Fucking heels…! I can’t ground myself properly! She thought, gritting her teeth as she shifted her feet, feeling her entire center of gravity being affected by the impractical footwear.

     “ Not bad… not sure what your Quirk did to me… but it’s not good enough!” The wolf-man roared, lunging at her again. She sidestepped out of it and lashed out with her knee, catching him hard in the ribs. It wasn’t enough to stun him, though, and a huge fist shot out, only missing her face when she blocked it with her right forearm. Dull pain raced through her nerves, but she ignored it, adrenaline coursing through her veins.

     She went on the defensive, avoiding his attacks until she could connect her sight with his. In these moments, the villain would hesitate and she would strike, landing hits successfully, only to pull back and avoid him again. She could see he was getting tired from his reckless approach, whereas she hadn’t expended much energy at all. At this rate, he would get too tired, and would either collapse or her blows would finally knock him out. Grinning slyly, she knew she just had to keep evading. She shifted back…

     Her ankle wrenched. The heel had caught a crack in the pavement and surrendered part of her weight to gravity.

     Staggering slightly, she tried to rebalance, pain echoing in her ankle. A flicker in her vision, she saw it: a huge leg coming in to smash her skull. Bringing up her right forearm again, she deflected the blow, but not without cost.

     A pop. Something giving way. A searing, sharp burn in her arm.

     Broken…!

     “ Texas SMASH!” A booming, familiar voice bellowed.

     Suddenly, there was a torrent of wind with force enough to knock the villain and Hakaori both airborne, though she admittedly didn’t move very far before hitting something solid- All Might’s arm. He caught her by the back, the two of them still billowing from the force of his punch, the sound of the villain crashing into something in the distance.

     “ Oh… Hi!” She squeaked, staring at him with a dazed grin and wide eyes.

     He cocked an eyebrow at her. “ ‘ Hi’?” He parroted as he straightened her out and onto her feet.

     Now, many bystanders had accumulated and officials were buzzing about; police apprehending the culprit and returning the stole money to the poor store owner, paparazzi swooping in and surrounding All Might. Hakaori was shoved out of the crowd, wincing when her injured arm got bumped or nudged. Peeking briefly over the crowd, she caught the hero’s gaze and he gave her an apologetic grin. She just smiled reassuringly and made her way to the restaurant.

**********

     “ Ugh, my arm…” Hakaori muttered to herself in the restaurant’s bathroom mirror. Her right forearm was bruised almost to the colour of her dress and it was swelling profusely. There was a small lump pushing from underneath her skin- probably her bone. Scoffing at her fragility, she rummaged around in her bag and pulled out a small roll of gauze. With a struggle, she began wrapping it around her arm, clenching her jaw as tears stung her eyes. She pulled the gauze taut, just enough to reinforce and splint the break before tucking the end in. Examining her botched first aid in the mirror, she nodded satisfactorily. It was covering both the bruising and the swelling and would suffice until the date was done.

     You should go to the hospital! Her mind chided, but she ignored her conscience. She would go. Just… later.

     Walking out, she went back to their reserved seat on the balcony. Well, technically, any seat there was theirs- All Might had reserved the entire balcony area to help ensure their privacy while they ate.

     She occupied herself by ordering a glass of water and browsing the menu. She tried to use her injured arm to flip through the pages, but the pain was such that she just left her arm rested in her lap. She carefully read through each item, deciding what she would like best, ultimately settling on spaghetti bolognese.

     One glass of water soon turned to two, and All Might still hadn’t arrived. An uncomfortable hollowness settled itself in the pit of her stomach. Maybe he ditched me… she shook her head. She had seen what happened; he’s just stuck with the media. He’s probably trying to talk his way out of it and get to the restaurant right now!

     Then there was a gust of wind, drawing Hakaori’s attention to the source: All Might touched down on the balcony, seemingly having fallen from the sky.

     “ All Might!” She cried, perhaps a little too elatedly. He let out his bellowing laugh as he walked over to the table.

     “ I am here!” He announced his catchphrase as he seated himself across from her. “ And I’m a bit late,” he added sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck.

     “ Technically speaking, I was, too,” Hakaori said coolly, waving her hand nonchalantly. “ I’m just glad you could make it.”

     Picking up a menu, All Might began browsing through it as he spoke, “ have you already decided on what you want?”

     You, her brain interjected. The intruding thought made her blush as she stammered her response, “ Er, just spaghetti. I-I’m not really that fancy.”

     “ Then it’s decided!” All Might boomed as he closed the menu, his grin broadening. “ I’ll get the same as you. What kind of wine do you like?”

     “ Hm… nothing really bitter. I like fruit wines,” she said, feeling her stomach flutter.

     “ Good choice!” He praised, looking up to the waiter who approached. Even when seated, All Might was huge- almost as tall as the poor waiter. The imagery made her cheeks puff slightly with suppressed laughter.

     “ Are you two ready to order?” The waiter asked in a kind and professional tone. He listened intently when All Might nodded.

     “ Two spaghetti bolgnese and whatever you would recommend for fruit wine- something more sweet than bitter,” All Might instructed, procuring a nod from the waiter before he walked away. There was just something so surreal about All Might ordering dinner.

     “ So! To the original reason I invited you to dinner: tell me about yourself, Forget-Me-Not,” All Might boomed jovially. Hearing her hero name in such a normal context made her crinkle her nose.

     “ Er… Wasurenagusa, if you would. Wasure is fine,” she said, blushing slightly again. “ My hero name just sounds weird when I’m not in uniform.”

     “ I see! Wasure-san, tell me about yourself,” he reiterated, grinning at her.

     “ What would you like to know?” She asked, giving him a coy smile.

     “ Well… how about your Quirk! You were reluctant to share it before,” he offered. Hakaori hummed softly.

     “ You don’t know?” She dodged the question.

     “ I do not!” He replied simply, but enthusiastically. The mighty hero was a bit caught off guard when she leaned forward slightly, gently laying her cheek in her left palm as she stared into his eyes. Her eyes were intense, almost mesmerizing, and he couldn’t help but stare back, heat rising in his cheeks. Suddenly, his mind went blank as he lost his train of thought.

     “ Er… sorry, what were we talking about? I’ve forgotten,” he admitted, a blush visibly dusting his cheeks now. Hakaori only chuckled before holding up her index finger.

     “ Wait a few seconds,” she instructed, so he did. And sure enough, his train of thought returned.

     “ Ah, right! Your Quirk- oh!” He snapped his fingers, a figurative lightbulb going off in his head, “ you did that, didn’t you?”

    “ I did. My Quirk- it’s the ability to make people forget conscious thoughts through eye contact. It even works on Quirks that have to be consciously activated,” she explained, breaking their eye contact. She seemed a bit uncomfortable with admitting this to him.

     “ What an amazing Quirk!” He exclaimed, laughing heartily. “ That must be why I lost my train of thought in the hallway when we first met!”

     “ Heh… well… I’m not a pro because of my physical abilities. I rely heavily on my Quirk,” she said, her voice uncharacteristically small and insecure.

     “ There’s nothing wrong with that! Why, it’s the very reason that heroes can exist as they do- our Quirks!” All Might bellowed, giving her his best reassuring grin. His enthusiasm, his encouragement… it made her heart swell. She couldn’t help but gaze at him. Not with the malicious intent of making him forget anything, but just to fondly admire the man sitting across from her. How could someone be so perfect?

     The rest of the dinner played out swell. The food was delicious, though All Might ate less than half of what Hakaori did (she finished both their plates) and he absolutely refused to let her see the bill. Nearing the end of the meal, Hakaori couldn’t shake the impending disappointment of parting ways. The girlish butterflies flitted around in her stomach, reminding her of just how much she came to like this man. All Might, too, seemed to fidget, like he was toying with something mentally. Moments of silence past before he finally spoke, giving voice to the thought that he entertained.

     “ The night is still quite young… would you like to take a walk on the beach with me, perhaps…?” He asked, his voice lacking its usual confident vigor. He was twiddling his fingers slightly.

     Hakaori snorted.

     This reaction seemed to visibly distress him- he began stammering excuses about her not needing to, that she could go home if she wanted-

     “ You’re so cheesy!” She exclaimed, laughing merrily. Her cheeks were flushed and she was smiling so broadly- it was beautiful, but… was she laughing at him?

     “ Oh, oh my goodness,” she stuttered, her laughing subsiding. She cleared her throat, giving him a small, embarrassed smile. “ Sorry. I couldn’t help myself… that was just so cute.”

     Cute. It wasn’t really a word All Might ever used to describe himself, nor had others used. Strong, handsome, hot… not cute. But here Hakaori was, calling him cute.

     “ I’d love to take a walk with you, All Might” she finally answered, before adding, “ and for the record, I like cheesy.”

     He perked up at this, his grin retrieving its usual zeal.

     “ Splendid! Let us not waste time. Oh-” He paused, looking a bit unsure as he weighed something in his mind before speaking again, “ when we’re in private like this, you can call me Yagi.”

     “ Alright then, Yagi-san. Let us go to the beach,” she said, playfully imitating his speech. They both laughed at this as they rose to their feet. Stepping closer to her, she looked up at him curiously.

     “ May I?” He asked, giving no clear indication of what it was he may or may not do. Hakaori simply nodded.

     Scooping her up into his arms, All Might held her close to his chest.

     And jumped into the air.

Chapter Text

     Within seconds, they were soaring high above the city. Hakaori clung desperately to All Might with her left arm, her right one cradled against her chest. The beach wasn’t far from where they were- it could be seen from their current vantage, and his trajectory had them closing the distance quickly.

     Glancing down at her, All Might took in her expression. Her eyes flitted around, wide with dilated pupils, indicating that she was definitely alert- probably experiencing a small adrenaline rush. Most people couldn’t jump hundreds of meters in just a few seconds, so it was a pretty reasonable response. Catching his attention from the corner of his eye, he noticed the gauze wrapped around her arm. It hadn’t been there before, had it?... His mind drew back to the dinner and he couldn’t recall seeing it, but then again, he couldn’t recall her using that arm at all. Did it happen during the encounter with the villain, then?

     It took a grand total of two mighty leaps to cover the entire distance. He landed in the sand with surprising smoothness, blowing a perfect circle around them at his impact point. Hakaori finally released her death grip on his shoulders as he lightly set her down on her feet, her broken arm throbbing with pain. Her increased blood pressure gave the nerves a new voice to scream once again, making her curse the fact that it had detracted so sharply from the experience. All Might had leapt over the entire city with her in his arms. It should have been intimate and close and invigorating, but all she could think about was how much her arm hurt.

     “ I hope I didn’t startle you too much!” He boomed, giving his usual guttural laugh.

     “ It surprised me at first, but I figured out what you were doing pretty quickly,” she said, giving him a tight smile. Her voice sounded tense, too.

     “ Is your arm alright? I noticed you have it wrapped,” he asked, his grin wavering slightly.

     “ Oh, this? It’s nothing too bad. When that villain punched me, he got me just right and now it hurts a bit. I wrapped it since it was starting to swell a little,” she laughed nervously, her cheeks flushing red. She wasn’t really lying, just… under exaggerating.

     All Might regarded her warily before speaking. “ Can you still flex your fingers?”

     “ It hurts to, but I can. I was going to have Recovery Girl look at it tomorrow to make sure it’s okay,” she explained, giving him a more reassuring grin. “ Don’t worry, I’m fine. I’m a capable hero too, you know!” She playfully scolded.

     It was obvious that he still wasn’t entirely convinced, but he let it go, nonetheless. His grin returned to normal and he began walking along the sanded shore with her. They didn’t make it very far before Hakaori encountered another issue: sand and stiletto heels don’t mix.

     Every step she took was deliberate and slow, and she finally tipped towards him, her balance lost. He put his hand up to catch her, but her right arm shot out first to brace herself against him. The second she put weight on it, though, her arm gave out and she couldn’t stifle the yelp that escaped. The pain, grinding and stabbing, shot through her arm and into her brain, making her see stars. She was thankful that only a yelp escaped her lips- a full on scream had hitched itself in her throat before she managed to stanch it.

     She felt warmth on her shoulders. His large hands curled around her, holding her steady while she sorted herself out. She waited a few moments before moving, trying to let the pain settle.

     “ I’m never letting my sister talk me into wearing heels again,” she muttered while she stooped, leaning against All Might for support as she pulled off the god-forsaken footwear. She stepped into the sand with her bare feet, the shoes dangling loosely in her left hand as she sighed contentedly.

     “ Okay. I can do basic things like walking again,” she chuckled, looking up at him. His hands were on her shoulders again and he was standing much closer than she’d realized. Heat radiated off of him like a living furnace, and her mind involuntarily entertained the thought of cuddling with him.

     “ Your arm couldn’t support your weight,” he observed, staring down at her. His tone was stern, and his grin was tight. They both knew that she was injured worse than she let on, but she just stared back at him, giving him a small smile. And just like that, the thought was gone.

     “ Ah… you used your Quirk again, didn’t you? I can’t remember-“ He started before she interjected.

     “ You worry too much!” She giggled, skipping a few steps ahead of him. “ Weren’t we going to take a walk?” 

     He just scratched the back of his neck and followed her. Something in the distant corners of his mind nagged at him, but he couldn’t recall what.

**********

     Staring at herself in the mirror, Hakaori pulled the gauze off, examining her injury. The bruise was now black, but the gauze splint seemed to have settled the bone back into place. She sighed as she opened the medicine cabinet, looking for something that would ease the pain until morning.

     “ That looks nasty,” Fumiko blurted, making her older sister jump. At some point, she had come in and was now leaning on the threshold.

     “ Don’t sneak up on me like that!” She cried, glaring at the younger woman.

     “ I saw you on the news again. Did that villain do that to you?” Fumiko asked, eyeing her sister’s injury.

     “ Yeah. I didn’t have my gloves so I wasn’t able to brace against his attacks like I normally could. He kneed my arm and broke it. Pretty lame, huh?” Hakaori joked weakly as she pulled out a bottle. Extra strength acetaminophen. That’d probably work.

     “ … Nah. It’s kinda cool when you come home injured. It’s like you’re an actual hero!” Fumiko jeered, grinning widely. “ So, did you go on your date like that?”

     “ … I am a terrible role model. But yes, I did go. And no, I shouldn’t have,” Hakaori answered as she dumped two pills into her palm and filled a tumbler with water.

     Fumiko waved her hand dismissively as she replied, “ I don’t blame you. Even an old lady like you must get lonely and crave male attention sometimes.” Her tone made it clear that her goal was to annoy her older sister as much as possible. And it was working.

     “ Listen, Fumi-chan… I know it’s your birth right, as my little sister, to antagonize me. But I’ve had a long night and would really appreciate it if you would lay off and leave me alone,” the older sibling groaned, her tone sharp and lacking in patience. Fumiko scoffed indignantly.

     “ Fine, fine. Be a cranky bitch by yourself, then!” The younger woman announced exasperatedly, throwing her hands up before leaving the bathroom in a huff.

     Hakaori sighed and ignored her sister’s dramatic display, instead downing the two pills with a large gulp of water. She stared at her haggard expression in the mirror as she prepared her toothbrush and brushed her teeth. It had been a long day. A good one, but pretending like your arm wasn’t broken so you could spend time with your crush was just foolish and exhausting. Rinsing her mouth out with water, she wandered back to her bedroom, untying her hair and peeling off her dress. She didn’t even bother to put on clothes before flopping on her bed- an action she immediately regretted as her arm sang out its song of pain.

     That was an incredibly stupid thing to do, she chided herself. It’s not like he’s interested in a relationship with you, anyway. She squeezed her eyes shut. She knew the thought were a result of her being tired, but her brain wasn’t relenting.

     You try so hard to be a good example for your sister, but you grasp at the slightest chance to be with someone and do such reckless things! He could be with anyone, so why would you think it’d be you? Are you really so pitiful? Yes, she was. But she had a lovely night and the injury would heal. Life goes on.

     Silencing the incessant voice in her mind, she stared blankly at the ceiling, fantasizing about cuddling All Might until her eyelids became heavy and she dozed off.

     She was standing in and endless field. The sky was a beautiful, vibrant blue, the occasional cloud peppering it. The grass was long and lush, swaying in a gentle breeze. Hakaori stood, staring at the sight before her in awe. It was gorgeous.

     A nudge on her arm made her turn her head. Next to her was a brown and white horse, staring at the woman intently.

     “ Duchess…” she breathed, staring at the animal in bewilderment. The horse called Duchess perked her ears at her name, raising her head in interest.

     “ … You wanna run, girl?” Hakaori asked, affectionately stroking the horse’s cheek. Duchess nickered softly, turning her attention to the infinite mass of field ahead of them. The horse’s nostrils flared and her body tensed up like a coil prepared to spring. Oh, she wanted to run all right.

     Grinning widely, Hakaori clambered up onto the mare’s back, barely able to situate herself before the horse was off and trotting. Perhaps this would have scared some, but Hakaori welcomed the awkward jaunt, even if she wasn’t entirely ready. Grabbing a handful of mane, Hakaori clamped her thighs and calves onto the animal, pressing in her heels as she gave a sharp kiss. In an instant, Duchess broke into a canter, then a gallop. Meter upon meter of field raced past them, the breeze now a billowing gale against her skin and hair. It peeled past the woman, even through her, and she could physically feel the stress and tension being ripped from her body and lost to the winds.

     Leaning forward, Hakaori wrapped her arms around the mare’s neck, hugging her tightly. Feeling the drastic change in her rider’s balance, Duchess slowed to a halt, mane and tail blowing softly, watching for any potential danger in the distance.

     “ I miss you…” the woman whispered, squeezing the horse tightly again.

     As if understanding the sentiment, Duchess turned her head towards Hakaori and nickered softly.

     And then it all began to fade away.

     Slowly first, evaporating at barely perceptible edges of existence before advancing inwards. Everything was disappearing into whiteness. Hakaori’s eyes widened at the sight, and she frantically kicked the horse’s sides.

     “ Duchess! Move! We’re going to be-“ the word hitched in her throat. What was going to happen to them? Did she really know?

     Duchess stood fast, continuing to stare into the evaporating distance with unwavering resolution. It was approaching quickly now, reminiscent of an avalanche consuming everything in its path. Hakaori could only watch in silent horror as the whiteness devoured everything, disintegrating Duchess into nothingness. Without something substantial beneath her, the woman plummeted into the void, falling endlessly. She opened her mouth and screamed, but the noise was blurred out by a deafening blaring.

     She was falling, falling, falling…

     Thump.

     Softness. The blaring receded, transitioning into something familiar.

     An alarm…?

     Hakaori’s eyes shot open. Her alarm clock beeped persistently next to her, beckoning her to shut it off. Swinging her legs over the side of the bed and sitting upright, she lifted her right hand to rub the sleep from her face. Instead, she was jerked to alertness by the searing pain in her arm. Laying the limb down in her lap, she used the other hand to rub her eyes and shut off the alarm.

     She did her best to get ready like normal, but between being one-handed and in immense pain, she found it nearly impossible to get herself dressed in her hero costume. Somehow she struggled through the ordeal, opting to leave off her right glove since Recovery Girl was going to heal it, anyway. She hoped.

     Wandering out of her room and into the hallway, a warm, lightly spiced scent touched her nose- bagels. She smiled at the smell, her stomach grumbling eagerly. She stepped into the kitchen, surprised to find Fumiko preparing breakfast for the both of them.

     “ Oh, uh… morning. I made you a bagel,” Fumiko said, her voice cracking slightly with early morning grogginess. She gestured to a plate with a lightly toasted, lightly buttered bagel. It was even cut into halves.

     “ Awwwww, thanks, little sister!” Hakaori chimed in a high, exaggeratedly sugary voice as she squeezed her sister’s shoulders with her left arm. Fumiko blushed and quickly shrugged her sister’s affection off. The elder sibling only chuckled and collected a half of the bagel, taking a large bite.

     “ How’s your arm?” Fumiko asked as she buttered her own bagel and bit into it.

     Hakaori swallowed her bite before speaking. “ It hurts even worse. That was a stupid stunt I pulled yesterday. I really should’ve went to the hospital,” she stated plainly, looking at her injured arm.

     “ What’s done is done. Like I said last night, I don’t really blame you; guys don’t take you out very often. Especially not a rich, hot guy that you’re totally into,” Fumiko teased with a wink. She cackled when her sister’s face lit up.

     “ … I don’t disagree with that last sentence,” was the older sister’s reply. It was so factual and honest that it surprised Fumiko. There was no fight at all!

     “ … Man. You have it bad! You didn’t even argue!” The little sister gasped, staring at Hakaori. The latter just stuffed the last of her bagel in her mouth and finished it off.

     “ I really like him, I guess,” she said nonchalantly, raising her shoulders slightly in surrender. “ Say… would you like to take a trip out to a local barn? I had a dream about the horses back home and now I’m kind of itching to go riding.” 

    “ Are you gonna invite All Might?” Fumiko asked, eyeing her sister. Hakaori considered the question and envisioned All Might riding a horse. The longer she held the image in her mind, the larger her smile got before she finally snerked.

     “ To be perfectly honest, I don’t think he could; he’s too big and heavy,” Hakaori admittedly. She would like for him to go, but…

    “ Ask him anyway! If he likes you, he’ll probably want the opportunity to win brownie points. Just tell him you really like horses first,” Fumiko suggested, looking at her sister.

     “ Okay. I will. But you still need to go even if he turns me down,” Hakaori commanded, looking at her sister with hopeful eyes that clashed with the previous statement.

     “ Yeah, yeah. Don’t worry about it.” The younger sibling waved her hand dismissively.

     Hakaori grinned at her sister as she grabbed her bag and headed out to work. She kept her right arm tucked closely to her body.

     Entering the U.A. grounds, she immediately headed to the nurse’s office. Knocking lightly on the door, she heard an elderly voice beckon her in. Awkwardly slipping inside, she slowly approached the tiny woman seated in a chair.

     “ Um, my name is Forget-Me-Not, I’m the new-“ Forget-Me-Not began.

     “ Yes yes, you’re the new assistant that they stuck with All Might. Poor thing,” the old lady said. Forget-Me-Not wasn’t sure if she was sympathizing with the number one hero or the female hero before her.

     “ Since you’re here, I’m assuming you must’ve hurt yourself, dear?” The old lady asked, her voice taking a much more friendly tone than before.

     “ Oh, er, yes. I did. I was hoping you could take a look…?” Forget-Me-Not admitted, looking at the older woman sheepishly.

     “ Well, I wouldn’t be the school nurse if I didn’t help the students and faculty. Let me see,” Recovery Girl commanded. Forget-Me-Not drew up her right sleeve, wincing as she did so, which didn’t go unnoticed by the nurse before her. She presented the darkly bruised area to the older lady, who scoffed at the injury.

     “ You broke your arm! What on earth were you doing?” The nurse scolded harshly, shooting a look of disapproval at the hero.

     “ Um… hero work...?” Forget-Me-Not offered weakly. The nurse just scoffed again in response.

     “ You heroes need to be less reckless! What are you going to do when I die? Honestly. Here,” Recovery Girl pointed to her table, “ lay your arm on there. I have to check the break to make sure your bone is aligned properly. And it’s really going to hurt.”

     Forget-Me-Not nodded and did just that, laying her forearm lightly across the table. Without hesitation, Recovery Girl began prodding the injury, checking the bone for any misplacement.

     The younger heroine cried out shamelessly. Yup. It hurt. A lot.

     Toshinori lifted his hand to knock on the door, though his hand froze when he heard the cry. Maybe now was a bad time…

     “ Oh, quit your screaming, deary. You’ll be fine in a few minutes. Keep yourself together,” the older lady chastised. Forget-Me-Not clamped her jaw, fighting back the whimpers in her throat.

     Recovery Girl’s lips puckered, stretching unnaturally until they touched the younger heroine’s arm. Within a few moments, the pain in her arm ceased and the bruise cleared up almost entirely. Forget-Me-Not stared at her arm in bewilderment.

     “ Wow… it doesn’t even hurt a bit…!” She breathed, flexing her fingers experimentally. “ Thank you! Er- Oof- my head hurts a bit, though…” she murmured, lightly pressing her temple with her fingertips.

     “ That’s a side effect. My Quirk speeds up the healing process of your body, but it’s still your body doing all the work. Healing takes a lot of stamina, especially when it’s a broken bone, so your body is fatigued now. Take this and be on your way, then,” Recovery Girl dismissed the woman, dropping an ibuprofen tablet and some gummies into her hand.

     “ Er… thanks again…” Forget-Me-Not murmured before bowing and heading out the door. She nearly ran over Toshinori, whom stood just outside.

     “ Ah! Sorry!” He apologized, quickly stepping aside. “ Are you okay?...”

     “ Oh, I’m fine! No worries,” Forget-Me-Not said with a grin.

     “ I heard you yell in there,” Toshinori admitted, looking at the woman with a concern that was probably too intense for their relationship. He noted when she rubbed her right arm nervously.

     “ Oh, uh… heh, I hurt it pretty bad last night. Turns out I slept on a broken arm all night,” she laughed nervously. “ But it’s fine now! Recovery Girl sure has an amazing Quirk.” Her voice sounded terribly awkward.

     “ Well, I’m glad you’re alright now,” the frail man responded with a smile. He watched as she visibly relaxed, returning his smile with one of her own.

     Wasure-san had said she was fine on their date, but there was no way that she couldn’t have known that her arm was broken. He decided not to berate her; it wasn’t like Toshinori hadn’t been doing his own share of irrational things, so he really wasn’t in a position to criticise her.

     “ Um… kind of a random question, but…” the heroine started, her cheeks flushing pink as she continued, “ does All Might like horses?”

     He stared at her blankly. It certainly was a random question.

     “ It’s not really something he’s ever mentioned. Why?”

     He watched as she fidgeted awkwardly, looking down at her feet. Seeing her so nervous and timid was so out of character… and cute.

     “ Ah, well, I’ve been planning a day trip with my sister to go horseback riding, and I was debating on asking him to come with us,” Forget-Me-Not finally said. “ I’m really not sure if he could even ride a horse, though.”

     So. She was inviting him on a day trip. Toshinori’s immediate response was to agree, but he knew he couldn’t- not as the number one hero. An entire day just wasn’t possible with his injury…

     “ Er… he’d definitely want to, but an entire day… with how busy his schedule is…” Toshinori trailed off, rubbing the back of his head. He was surprised at how calm and indifferent she seemed when she nodded understandingly. Maybe she wasn’t as in to All Might as he thought… or she was perceiving it in the exact opposite way.

     “ B-but perhaps-“ he started, trying to salvage the situation. No, All Might couldn’t go- not directly, but Toshinori, on the other hand... he could survive a day on horseback. Probably.

     “ Then, do you want to come?” She piped up, looking up at him expectantly with her glistening green eyes. It was like she read his mind. He couldn’t hold back a cough, clamping a hand over his mouth and sputtering blood in surprise. She quickly produced a tissue from her purse, holding it to him.

     “ Thanks…” he murmured as he tidied himself up. “ I really didn’t expect you to invite me.” 

     He said the last word with such distaste. Forget-Me-Not felt her heart clench- why would she not invite him?

     “ Why not? You’re a sweet guy,” she stated simply, her voice sounding more flirty than she intended. His cheeks flushed red and she knew he had picked up on it. “ B-besides, I want to pay you back for being so kind to me while I was so new,” she added in a much more normal, albeit hasty, tone.

     “ I’d love to go,” he finally answered, meeting her eyes timidly. He blushed even harder at the eager grin she gave him.

     “ Okay! I haven’t decided on a date yet, but it’ll probably be next weekend. Does that work for you?”

     “ Yeah.” He nodded.

     “ Alright then. What’s your phone number? I’ll text you the specifics later,” the woman said as she fished out her phone. Toshinori went to do the same, though he froze when he realized it: All Might had already texted her from this phone. Patting his pockets frantically, he played it off as if he’d forgotten his phone.

     “ Shoot, I forgot my phone,” He muttered, giving her a nervous smile. She just stared at him before smiling again.

     “ That’s okay; I can just text you now and you can reply later,” she responded, waiting for him to tell her his number.

     “ Er, I actually just got a new phone number recently, and I haven’t actually memorized it yet,” he offered, rubbing the back of his head. Panic surged through him when he saw the frown she gave him.

     “ Toshinori-san, if you don’t want to go, just say so. It’s really not a big deal.”

     Oh no. Oh no oh no oh no.

     “ N-no! It’s really not that! I just genuinely don’t know my number!” He cried. She sucked in her lips as she tried not to laugh. His flustered state definitely made it clear that he was being honest.

     “ You still have my number from when I gave it to you, right? Just text me later, then!” She suggested with a grin. She turned her back and waved when he nodded. “ Talk to you later.”

     “ See you, Wasure-san,” he replied. And froze. He watched as she also stopped, mid-step, catching his words. But she didn’t turn to face him. Swallowing tightly, he felt cold sweat collecting in his palms. It had slipped out so easily…

     She hadn’t introduced herself personally to Toshinori. He should only know her hero name.

     Yet he called her by her last name.

Chapter Text

     Breath hitched in his throat, Toshinori stared at Forget-Me-Not. Neither made a move for what seemed like an eternity. His mind began whirring, trying to create an excuse as to how he knew her last name. He could only blame All Might so many times before she’d catch on, but was the only shot he had.

     “ Strange… I could’ve swore I only told All Might to call me that,” she said, loud enough so that Toshinori could hear. She still hadn’t turned to face him, instead, she was humming and hawing over her previous statement. She concluded the thought with a shrug and kept walking.

     “ Did she really not realize?” Toshinori breathed, releasing a breath he didn’t know he was holding as she disappeared from sight. Or had that been a warning to him? He didn’t know why he tried to keep it such a secret, anyway. If she became a teacher at the school, which was looking likely, she’d find out about his true form eventually. All of the staff knew, and she’d be no exception. Sighing deeply, he admitted it to himself. It was pathetic, but it was why he couldn't find it in himself to tell her.

     She liked All Might, not Toshinori.

**********

     “ All right, let’s begin class,” Forget-Me-Not announced, drawing the attention of the students. She directed them to the topic in the textbook and began asking various students to read excerpts and reflect on them.

     All Might was still not present.

     “ Uraraka-san, would you please read the next paragraph?” Forget-Me-Not asked, giving the girl a confident smile when she rose, textbook in hand.

     “ Integrity is one of the vital essences of heroism. Without honesty to oneself and to others, a hero’s resolve is questionable. All heroes must know exactly what it is that they strive to achieve, and must admit their shortcomings to themselves in order to clear their minds of doubt and better bear the burden of being a hero,” Uraraka read aloud, looking up at Forget-Me-Not sheepishly.

     “ Very good!” The hero teacher praised, giving the girl a thumbs up. “ Now, what exactly does that mean, and why is it important?”

     “ Well, I think it means that-“ the student began before being loudly interrupted.

     “ I am here!” All Might bellowed as he burst through the sliding door, stealing the attention of all in the room. “ And about ten minutes late,” he added in a smaller voice. He shrunk further at Forget-Me-Not’s huff of disapproval.

     “ Must you?” She chided, putting her hand on her hip. The students snickered as the hulking hero nervously skittered over to his place next to the heroine. It wasn’t every day that you got to see the Symbol of Peace get scolded for being late, especially when the woman doing it was a good two heads shorter than him.

     “ Er, resume where you were!” He boomed loudly as he quickly recovered, grinning widely. Forget-Me-Not just shook her head and smiled, calling on Uraraka to finish her previous thought.

     It was a fairly mundane day, but time passed quickly. The two heroes departed their last class of the day, briefly meeting in stride down the hall.

     “ See you tomorrow. And try not to be late again,” she playfully reprimanded, smirking at All Might. His grin took a nervous turn as he rubbed the back of his head in mild embarrassment.

     “ My apologies,” he offered, making her laugh. He looked at her curiously as she seemed to toy with something mentally, but the words never came before they went their separate ways. 

     Settling in the staff room, Forget-Me-Not started her usual job of marking and grading for the day. She was completely enraptured in the task until her phone vibrated, momentarily grabbing her attention. Finishing the page she was on, she lifted the device to check the notification.

>>Hello, it’s Toshinori. Sorry if I’m interrupting anything. 

     She smiled at the text and promptly saved his contact information. She was technically working, but he expressed understanding that she was probably busy, so she didn’t respond. Setting her phone aside, she resumed her marking, though she didn’t get very far before a slender arm wrapped itself around her shoulders.

     “ My, who texted you for you to have that kind of expression?” A sultry voice asked. Forget-Me-Not jerked her head up to see a curvaceous woman with long black hair regarding her intently. She was also very, very close to Forget-Me-Not’s face.

     “ U-um, can I help you?” Was all the assistant could stammer, leaning away from the other woman as she blushed furiously.

     “ You must be the new assistant,” the black-haired woman remarked, looking Forget-Me-Not up and down. “ I’m Midnight, one of the other teachers at U.A. I must say, you’re quite a pretty one, and your skin looks so soft,” Midnight cooed, lightly brushing Forget-Me-Not’s cheek with her knuckles.

     “ Uh… thanks? You’re pretty too,” the lighter-haired woman replied, face ablaze as she awkwardly returned the compliment.

     “ Awe, aren’t you so sweet?” Midnight cooed again, resting her hand on Forget-Me-Not’s shoulder. Forget-Me-Not promptly leaned out of the contact.

     “ You’re very pretty, but please stop touching me,” the assistant politely commanded, scooting away from Midnight.

     “ Ah, so you’re the more prudent type, hm? How boring,” Midnight teased playfully, lightening the mood. Forget-Me-Not chuckled.

     “ I mean, I might be more receptive if you at least took me out to dinner first,” Forget-Me-Not taunted back. Midnight snickered at this and leaned towards the other woman again.

     “ Maybe I’ll do just that. Provided that the person you were texting doesn’t mind,” Midnight purred, glancing down at the other woman’s phone.

     “ I don’t know if he’d mind, but…” Forget-Me-Not murmured, blushing again as her thoughts drifted to the man of her affections.

     “ Hah, you’re definitely his type,” Midnight chortled merrily. Forget-Me-Not stared at her with genuine confusion, spurring her to elaborate, “ All Might. You’re the type of woman he’s attracted to. Do you like him?” Midnight prodded, looking at the heroine eagerly.

     “ Why? Do you?” Forget-Me-Not retorted. What on earth was this curvy woman doing?

     “ Ugh. I mean, that body is to die for, but he’s too much of a goody-goody for me,” Midnight evaluated, nodding her head in affirmation. Forget-Me-Not just stared at the other woman for the umpteenth time. At least she was nice on the eyes.

     “ You’ll get him, honey, don’t you worry,” the dark-haired woman confirmed, giving the other a comforting pat on the head before leaving.

     “ ... What the hell?” The frazzled woman muttered once she was alone. Even if that was the most unusual conversation she’d had in a while, the other heroine’s kind words resonated inside her brain. It gave Forget-Me-Not another bout of confidence, though she had no idea how well Midnight knew All Might. But… She was his type… the thought made her so giddy, she made herself embarrassed. Shaking her head, she focused, continuing her work until she was done for the day.

**********

     “ So, is All Might coming with us?” Fumiko asked, looking up at Hakaori curiously. Both women were seated on the couch, watching T.V. while eating their bowls of mac and cheese.

     “ Nah, he’s too busy,” Hakaori responded, shoving an unladylike amount of food into her mouth.

     “ So much for brownie points,” Fumiko scoffed, rolling her eyes. “ So it’s just us, then?”

     “ I invited his secretary instead,” Hakaori elaborated, garnering a strange look from her sister.

     “ His secretary? Why?” 

     “ He’s a really nice guy and I’d like to get to know him more,” the older sister said with a shrug. “ He also has this weird air about him, like he’s hiding something. Annnnnd he’s actually small enough to ride a horse.”

     “ Do you like him, too? Or is he your backup?” Fumiko pried, looking up at her sister. Hakaori shot her a disapproving glare.

     “ I don’t do ‘backups’. He’s a person with feelings, too. That would be far too shallow and selfish for me. But…” she trailed off, contemplating before continuing, “ y’know how some Quirks give you transformative powers?”

     “ Yeah, why? You think he has one?” Fumiko stuffed another bite in her mouth.

     “ He must. He wears these clothes that are like, five or six sizes too big. At first, I thought he was trying to hide how skinny he is, but I definitely think it’s something to do with his Quirk,” Hakaori explained, temporarily forgetting about her dinner.

     “ I could easily find out what it is with my Quirk,” Fumiko offered, giving her sister a sinister grin. This won her another disapproving glare.

     “ Let him have his privacy. He might be really embarrassed by it. He strikes me as really self-conscious, so please don’t tease him too much, okay?” Hakaori requested, getting a reluctant nod in response.

     “ I’ll just tease you extra, instead,” the younger girl concluded, sneering at her mac and cheese. 

     “ How about next Saturday?” Hakaori asked, ignoring her sister’s previous comment.

     “ Sounds fine to me.”

     Hakaori grabbed her phone and found the new contact: Toshinori. She typed out her message:

>Sorry for the late reply. I’m finally at home eating dinner. How does next Saturday at 10am sound? I’ll come pick you up.

     He didn’t reply right away, so Hakaori put her phone aside and continued eating with her sister.

**********

     The following Saturday rolled by so quickly. Hakaori was dressed up fittingly, wearing a lightly contoured, red plaid shirt and a pair of form fitting jeans with some dirty brown boots, her hair tied in a low braid. Fumiko, on the other hand, wore a large t-shirt and sweatpants, though she did opt for some boots. The two gobbled down their breakfast in a hurry and dashed out to the car. Hakaori fired a text to Toshinori, telling him of their impending arrival.

     Navigating the metropolis by car was a lot more tedious than either sister anticipated, but through GPS and a bit of guesswork, they soon arrived at the complex in which Toshinori resided. It was in a richer part of town, and despite the large building, their didn’t appear to be many apartments in the building itself. 

     “ Guess All Might pays pretty well,” Fumiko observed, looking out at the buildings. Hakaori ignored her in favour of sending another text, but a form moving in the corner of her eye caught her attention. Toshinori eyed the car carefully, clearly unsure if it was her vehicle or not, but smiled and walked over when she waved to him. Hopping into the passenger seat, he fastened his seat belt.

     “ Good morning,” Hakaori chimed as she pulled out of the parking lot, setting them on their way.

     “ Morning,” he replied, giving her a quick smile.

     “ Hey! You’re All Might’s secretary, right!?” Fumiko squealed, poking her head up between the seats. Toshinori looked at her and nodded, before doing a double take when he actually registered her face.

     “ You look exactly like your sister,” he stated, leaning forward slightly so he could compare them. He didn’t get much time to do so before Hakaori interjected.

     “ Sit down,” Hakaori demanded as she pressed her palm to her sister’s forehead and pushed her back into her seat. “ And keep your seat belt on!”

     Amazingly, she never once took her eyes off the road.

     “ Nothing’s gonna happen,” Fumiko complained, sitting back behind her sister but still not fastening her belt.

     Awkward silence passed between the three of them, only the dull drawl of the radio filling the air. Toshinori shifted slightly in his seat, stealing a glance over at Hakaori. Her eyes connected briefly with his, and she gave him a mischievous smile as she focused back on the road. A few more moments passed…

     And she stepped on the brakes. Hard enough to decelerate rapidly, but not enough to significantly jerk anyone... who was wearing their seat belt. 

     There was a thump against the back of the driver’s seat and a grunt. Fumiko righted herself, scowling at her sister as she finally fastened herself in.

     “ Asshole! You did that on purpose! I smashed my face on the seat!” The young woman cried, rubbing her nose indignantly.

     “ I had to! A little squirrel ran across the road and I wasn’t about to squish him,” Hakaori replied, hamming up her innocence.

     “ She’s telling the truth. I saw him too. That’s why you always need to wear your seat belt- you never know when there will be kamikaze squirrels,” Toshinori added, grinning at Hakaori. The elder sibling snerked, trying to fight back her laughter.

     “ Heyyyy! You don’t even know my name, so don’t take my sister’s side,” Fumiko whined.

     “ Fair. My name is Toshinori,” he offered, looking over his shoulder at her. 

     “ Fumiko! But call me Fumi-chan. Can I call you Toshi-kun?” The little sister asked, her eyes wide with eagerness; the same expression Hakaori had given him countless times. He couldn’t help but chuckle at their similarities.

     “ It’s a pleasure to meet you, Fumi-chan. And you may call me Toshi-kun,” he replied. He chuckled again at the girl’s excited response.

     “ Yes! So, Toshi-kun, what’s it like, working for All Might?” She inquired, looking at him with the most curious of expressions.

     “ Er… it’s not bad. A lot of paperwork, though,” he answered, turning his attention to the road again.

     “ Is he actually as nice as he is on T.V.? Or is it just a persona?” She pried. He could feel her eyes boring into him.

     “ Hmmm… he’s pretty nice, though I guess he does kind of over exaggerate on T.V.,” he explained. 

     “ Does he have a girlfriend?”

     “ Fumiko!” Hakaori barked. He heard the younger sibling huff in annoyance.

     “ What!? I’m just asking!” Fumiko barked back.

     “ Not to my knowledge,” Toshinori answered.

     “ Don’t encourage her. It’s a rude question, and it’s really not your place to answer, either,” Hakaori scolded. Toshinori swallowed stiffly, blushing slightly in embarrassment.

     “ See!? She’s scolding you now, too! She’s such a bitch,” Fumiko sulked. 

     “ Woof, woof,” Hakaori replied dryly.

     “ You shouldn’t call your sister names. She was absolutely right to scold us,” Toshinori agreed, smiling when he noticed the satisfied smirk on Hakaori’s lips.

     It was a long drive, but eventually they pulled into a lengthy driveway, lined with acre upon acre of land. Horses were strewn about behind enclosed fences, some checking out the new vehicle while others grazed indifferently.

     Toshinori stole a quick look at Hakaori. She looked reasonably calm, though subtle hints in her body language- the tension in her shoulders, the set of her jaw- suggested that she was really excited. And it was infectious. He felt excitement creeping over him, too, and he smiled as they all exited the car.

     “ Have you decided what you would be most comfortable with, Toshinori-san?” The older sister asked as she rounded the car, meeting him in stride as they walked towards the main building, Fumiko trailing alongside them. His quizzical expression suggested he hadn’t quite grasped what she was referring to.

     “ You’ve never ridden a horse before, right? Do you want to ride one by yourself, or would you prefer to ride with me?” She clarified, looking at him.

     “ Er, well…” he hesitated, considering the options. Riding with her sounded safest, and it would allow him to be close to her without it being too weird... “ I-I think riding with you would be best,” he suggested in a small voice, feeling heat rise to his cheeks.

     “ That’s what I was thinking, too, but I wanted to give you the option,” she nodded with a grin. Fortunately, she didn’t seem to notice the blush in his cheeks. But another did. Fumiko pursed her lips, eyeing Toshinori intently.

     “ Let’s go pick out some horses, Toshi-kun! Sis can handle renting them,” Fumiko chimed, lightly tugging on his sleeve.

     “ That’s actually not a bad idea. Go familiarize yourself with the horses. You might not mind them now, but they can be really intimidating when you get up close to them,” Hakaori explained, giving Fumiko indirect permission to burgle Toshinori. The young woman squealed as she dragged the waiflike man over to one of the pastures, Hakaori instead walking into the main building.

     “ Haka-chan and I grew up on a ranch,” Fumiko said as they walked up to the fence. A few horses wandered over, curious of the new visitors. “ I don’t compliment her much, but she really does know her way around horses, so you can trust what she says.”

     Toshinori regarded the animals, unsure of how to interact with them. Fortunately Fumiko set an example when she extended her hand to them, letting them sniff and lick at her palm. He did the same, and they sniffed and licked his hand, too.

     “ I didn’t realize she likes horses so much,” he admitted, gently petting the muzzle of one horse. It didn’t seem to mind.

     “ Oh, she adores horses. She must like you a fair bit to invite you to come here,” Fumiko added, scratching one horse’s neck. She noticed his cheeks flush again, and the horse he was petting jerked its head away.

     “ Try to keep yourself calm around horses. They can pick up your mood just by your body language, and they’ll respond in the same way, usually,” she warned.

     “ Are you sure you aren’t the expert?” He teased, eliciting a wide grin from the girl.

     “ This’s all stuff that sis taught me. The basics of the basics,” she admitted, sounding uncharacteristically proud of her elder sibling.

     “ She really does know a lot, doesn’t she?” He murmured fondly, more so to himself than Fumiko. Fumiko watched him carefully,

     “ Toshi-kun?” She asked, using a softer voice than she normally would. He looked up at her inquisitively, and she held his gaze.

     “ … Do you have… romantic feelings for my sister?” She asked bluntly, keeping her eyes locked on his. He felt a flustering surge of panic, but before he could compose an answer, words were tumbling out of his mouth.

     “ Yes I do- er-“ He blurted, clamping his hand over his mouth as blood spurted from it. Why had he said that!?

     “ Huh,” she said casually, looking at the horses briefly before turning back to him. “ Does All Might have similar feelings, too?”

     He gazed nervously at her eyes. She looked so innocent… and again, words poured from his mouth without his consent.

     “ Yes, he does-“ He admitted, eyes widening again. Her eyes widened too.

     “ Wait- What!? Seriously!?” She blurted, her tone genuinely exasperated. He quickly turned his eyes away, hastily wiping his mouth. Why had he said so much? It was like he couldn’t control his mouth-

     And then it donned on him.

     “ Do… do you have a Quirk?” He stammered, keeping himself fixated on a horse.

     “ Well, yeah. It’s almost opposite to Haka-chan’s. She can make people forget stuff; I can make people say whatever it is they’re thinking. Why?” She asked, tipping her head. When he didn’t answer, she grinned, making a far too sinister expression for such a cute girl.

     “ Are you hiding something, Toshi-kun?” She hissed, her voice dripping with maliciousness.

    Shit.

Chapter Text

     Staring at one of the horses, Toshinori actively avoided looking at the young girl.

     Her Quirk is dangerous. I’m going to need to be especially careful around her so I don’t say anything more, he noted, his thoughts flickering to his two forms and One for All.

     “ Toshi-kun? Are you ignoring me?” Fumiko sulked, sticking out her lower lip in a pout. He brought his attention back to her indirectly, keeping his gaze away from her.

     “ You have an amazing Quirk. Why use it to make people uncomfortable?” He asked, acknowledging her. She hummed softly as she considered this.

     “ Becaaaaaause… blackmail is a good motivator!” She chirped, grinning widely. Toshinori sputtered blood at this sentiment, instinctually turning to stare at her in shock. He caught himself, though, and quickly peeled his eyes away before she could make him say anything else.

     “ Kidding, kidding! I’m just very nosy and it’s a good way to judge someone’s character. You won’t look at me now, so I know you’re hiding something,” she elaborated, climbing up to sit on the fence. Balancing herself, she swung one of her legs idly.

     “ Are you going to tell your sister about what I said?” He changed the subject.

     “ Probably just what you said about All Might. No offense, but she’s not interested in you like that, so I don’t see a point to telling her that you like her. No sense in making things awkward on both ends,” she offered, grinning at him even though he wasn’t looking. Her grin wavered when she saw just how downcast the statement had made him.

     “ Uh… I did say no offense,” she added weakly, feeling the situation grow awkward between them instead.

     “ Do you think I might’ve had a chance if the situation was different?” He whispered, watching the horses in the distance as they grazed and frolicked.

     “ Um…” she stuttered, scratching her cheek, “ I guess? She said you were nice, and that’s what she really likes in a person, so…” Fumiko finished with a shrug.

     The sound of rustling grass in the breeze was the only noise between the two as they settled with their own thoughts. They were both snapped out of it when Hakaori approached them, grinning widely, completely unaware of the awkwardness between the two. In one hand was some papers and a pen, a helmet dangled from the other. She presented one paper to Toshinori, and the helmet and another sheet to Fumiko, who scoffed at the piece of safety equipment.

     “ Why do I have to wear a helmet?” The younger sibling sulked, reluctantly taking the objects presented to her.

     “ Because you’re a minor,” Hakaori explained as she shook her head, turning her attention to Toshinori. “ That form is a hold harmless agreement. Basically, by signing it, you’re saying you and anyone associated with you won’t hold the stable liable if the horse hurts you.” 

     Toshinori nodded, taking the pen as he read over the agreement in more detail. Dismemberment and death? Just how dangerous was horseback riding!? He cast a sidelong glance at the animals in the field. It made sense; they were giant animals who could easily hurt without meaning to. Steeling his nerves, he signed the line and passed the pen to Fumiko. He wouldn’t die. Probably.

     “ I also requested a mellow and bombproof horse for us, so your first ride is as comfortable as possible,” the older sister added, smiling sheepishly as she blushed. The frail-looking man blushed as well, rubbing the back of his head as he handed the signed sheet back to Hakaori. Fumiko signed her sheet and returned it as well, letting Hakaori sign her own agreement, as well as cosigning for her sister as her legal guardian.

     “ There! I’ll go bring these inside while you go pick your horse,” The older sibling looked at her sister before pointing to a smaller pasture containing a few horses, “ He said any horse from that pasture is fine. Just grab a lead rope, loosely wrap it around whatever horse’s neck and bring it to the barn. Our horse,” she turned to Toshinori, “ is getting tacked up in the barn as we speak, so I’ll meet you over there.” She grinned again, eyes brimming with excitement.

     Everyone nodded and dispersed, heading to their respective destinations. Feeling extremely out of place, the tall, thin man wandered into the barn, immediately noticing the light grey horse in the middle of the aisle. It was held in place by two straps on either side of its face, connected to the harness it wore loosely around its head. It seemed quite relaxed, only perking its ears in mild interest when the new visitor entered, otherwise completely unmoved. A small old man bustled around the horse, tightening various straps and clasping various things.

     Approaching the horse cautiously, Toshinori lifted a hand to its muzzle. It sniffed him curiously and tested a lick, but found there was no treats to be had and quickly lost interest. Relaxing slightly, he stroked along the horse’s muzzle, up to its forehead, and back down. It didn’t mind.

     “ So, you must be the one who’s not used to horses,” the old man stated, his voice gruff and indifferent. Toshinori removed his hand, unsure if the old man was just trying to be friendly or warn him that he was doing something wrong. Fortunately he wasn’t left alone to bumble for too long before Hakaori returned, her face lighting up as she sauntered up to the horse.

     “ Aren’t you a pretty boy!” She cooed, lifting her hands to stroke the horse’s head with much more vigor than the thin man had given. The horse seemed to be equally interested, perking its ears and sniffing her face. Hakaori reciprocated the horse’s sniffing, moving her nose closer to one of the horse’s nostrils and exhaling deeply and deliberately into it. The horse mimicked the same behaviour, blowing air back into Hakaori’s nose. Toshinori cupped his mouth and stifled a chuckle. She definitely looked a bit ridiculous, which she must have realized since she quickly righted herself as her face lit up.

     “It’s, er, how horses greet each other…” she elaborated in a small voice, giving him an embarrassed smile. Toshinori waved his hand in a dismissive gesture, smiling in return.

     “ No, no. I just didn’t expect... that,” he answered.

     The old man moseyed over to Hakaori, handing her a bridle and reins before unclipping the straps that held the horse in place. Toshinori wondered idly if they were even necessary when the horse didn’t budge upon freedom.

     “ Greigh here is as calm as they come. I trust you can get his bridle on?” The old man croaked, looking up to the woman.

     “ Of course! Thank you very much for letting us ride him,” Hakaori chirped, grinning before turning to the horse. The old man observed briefly as she lined herself up at the horse’s left shoulder and slid the bridle over the horse’s face with ease. Nodding satisfactorily, he meandered outside, regarding Fumiko as she decided on a horse.

     “ I had him tack up our horse first so you can practice in the barnyard while Fumi-chan gets her horse ready,” Hakaori said to Toshinori as she took the reins and lead Greigh out into the barn yard. Following closely, Toshinori looked at the horse, feeling a bit of anxiety nestle itself in the pit of his stomach.

     She suddenly held the reins out to Toshinori before speaking, “ here, hold these.”

     The tall man obliged, taking them as Hakaori abandoned him and the horse for a moment, returning with a step stool.

      “ We’re going to need this since we’re both going to get on. Now, the first thing you should always do before getting on a horse is check the saddle fit. If it’s too loose, you’ll end up under the horse,” she explained, laying the step stool down as she checked the girth belt that held the saddle on. Giving a few testing tugs, she nodded. “ It’s good! Now, once you’re on the step stool,” she pulled the step stool into place, “ hook your left foot in this stirrup and swing your other leg over, putting your right foot in the stirrup on the other side,” she finished, taking the reins again as she stepped in front of the horse.

      Swallowing tightly, Toshinori did as she instructed, swinging his leg over the horse’s back, seating himself in the saddle. With a bit of a struggle, he managed to wiggle his foot into the other stirrup, sitting up straighter.

     “ Alright. Now, when you’re actually sitting on the horse, make sure you cock your hips so you’re sitting on your tailbone. Sitting with your hips too far forward compromises your balance,” she instructed, making him blush when she reached up and gripped his hip, gently pushing it in the direction he should be riding.

     “ There, that’s pretty good. Now just hold onto the horn or saddle or even the horse’s mane, if you’re so inclined, and try to relax,” she added, waiting until he settled himself before starting to walk. The horse followed her knowingly, walking at a slow and leisurely pace. The thin man swayed slightly in the saddle, though it wasn’t terribly hard to adjust to the horse’s movements. They did a few laps before stopping by the step stool again, where Hakaori knotted the reins and looped them over the horn of the saddle.

     “ Feeling pretty comfortable? We aren’t going to go faster than a walk today, so that’s about all you’ll be doing,” Hakaori asked, looking up at him. Toshinori nodded, looking down at her.

     “ It’s not so bad. But how are we going to ride together?” He asked instead, looking at her curiously.

     “ Okay, so. Unhook your feet from the stirrups and slide yourself back so you’re seated behind the saddle,” she said in a simple tone, and he did as such, immediately noting the significantly less security that came with not having stirrups to balance on. He gripped the back of the saddle uncertainly, watching as she checked the saddle and took his previous spot. She stood in the stirrups a few times before actually seating herself.

     “ We’re going to do a few more laps like this, since you’re essentially riding bareback now. Try to hang on with your thighs, but don’t be afraid to hold onto the saddle, just like you are. I personally find it more comfortable on the wrists to hang on to the person in the saddle. You can do that, too,” she finished, smiling at him over her shoulder. She had the reins in one hand, her other hanging freely at her side.

     Now what? She was right; holding onto the back of the saddle was kind of awkward, but… holding onto her? Where should he put his hands? What was the proper way to hang onto someone when riding together? Was there a proper way? Shaking his head slightly, he hesitantly put a hand on her hip. She didn’t seem to mind; in fact, she actually took his hand and wrapped it further around her so his grip was more secure. She then reached around, switching which hand held the reins, and pulled his other arm around her, into an awkwardly intimate embrace. At least, that’s how he perceived it. He couldn’t fight the intense blush that consumed his face, silently thanking no one in particular that she couldn’t see him easily from her current vantage.

     “ Ready?” She chimed, which he responded with a soft hum in agreement. Hakaori gave the horse a gentle squeeze with her legs, and they were in motion. Involuntarily, Toshinori tightened his grip on her as he felt the horse’s movements much more distinctly, and without the stirrups for support, he felt much more insecure. Remembering to grip with his thighs, he tightened them, noticing that he actually moved less and did feel more secure this way… but oh boy, his legs would be sore if he had to hold on like this the whole time.

     “ How you feeling back there?” The woman asked, moving so naturally with the horse, it was kind of hypnotic. He watched the way her hips moved and shifted with such ease, though her shoulders hardly moved at all from their relaxed position. Horses were supposed to be an image of majesty, but right now, he could only focus on the majesty of the woman in front of him. Snapping himself out of it, he swallowed tightly, trying to compose himself enough to answer.

     “ I-it feels a bit more… it feels like I’m moving more. And I don’t have as much to balance myself with,” he admitted, trying not to hold onto her too tightly. His thighs didn’t appreciate this much, and they were already starting to protest the unusual workout.

     “ That’s about what I expected. If your legs get too tired, hang onto me for stability and relax your thighs for a bit. There’s no reason why you can’t alternate,” she offered, and he quickly shifted to hanging onto her. His thighs weren’t going to forgive him if he kept squeezing.

     The duo circled around the barn yard several times before Fumiko finally emerged, leading a short palomino pony, tacked up in all his gear. As per her sister’s demand, she was even wearing the helmet. 

     “ You chose a pony?” Hakaori laughed, shamelessly letting out a snort.

     “ They’re easier to mount!” Fumiko retorted indignantly, tightening her saddle before hoisting herself onto the pony’s back. She steered her steed to meet in stride with Hakaori and Toshinori’s horse.

     “ Fair enough,” Hakaori concluded before moving on, “ the owner told me where the trails are and gave me a small map, so I’ll lead the way,” she finished, noting the way her horse sauntered leisurely along, contrasting sharply with the bounding and prancing of Fumiko’s pony.

     “ You sure did choose an energetic one,” the elder sibling observed, noting how taut her little sister held the reins.

     “ I’m… fine!” Fumiko responded, obviously having a bit more trouble with the spirited animal then she would like to admit. 

     “ If you say so,” Hakaori replied, dropping the subject.

     “ So… how long have you been riding? Fumiko-san- er, Fumi-chan mentioned that you two grew up on a farm,” Toshinori asked once he was sure the sisters were done talking.

     “ We did. Hmmm… I was probablyyyyyyy… five or so, when I first rode. He was this godawful little pony named Snickerdoodle. That menace did everything in his will and power to knock me out of that saddle as often as he could,” Hakaori explained, her voice fond as she smiled, reminiscing about the old memories.

     “ I thought you never fell off,” Fumiko remarked, still struggling with the prancing equine beneath her.

     “ Oh, I’ve fallen off plenty of times, but riding an ornery little pony like him- I learned how to stay on pretty quickly. His favourite tactic was to rear,” the older sister gestured to the front of the horse and moved her arm upward, “ and throw my balance backwards. Then, once I was good and compromised, he’d immediately buck,” she gestured to the back end of their horse, “ and catapult me over his head. Or, sometimes, he’d mix it up a bit and buck, then rear and fling me over his butt.” 

     Toshinori imagined this in his head: a little Hakaori, likely all dressed up in her fancy horseback riding attire, getting launched off a small pony’s back. Perhaps it was the way he pictured it, but he couldn’t help but snicker at the mental image.

     “ I think I have some old tapes of it; I’ll have to show you sometime. It’s actually pretty funny! I sort of just rag doll all over the place,” Hakaori laughed, playfully flopping from side to side for added effect. Greigh looked back at her curiously, which garnered him an affectionate pat.

     “ Sorry, buddy. You’re probably wondering what your crazy rider is doing,” Hakaori cooed, scratching the horse’s neck. He seemed placated once learning that his rider was okay and turned his head back towards the trail. There was a brief pause before Toshinori spoke up again, changing the subject.

     “ Maybe I’m just reading into it wrong, but… are you originally from Japan?” He asked, watching the back of Hakaori’s head intently. His mind wandered back to the car trip earlier, where Hakaori had scolded Fumiko for asking him too many questions. Yet, here he was, bombarding her with questions in a similar fashion.

     “ Nah. We were born in Canada,” Fumiko answered instead, her voice a bit strained as she still struggled with the pony, who was now so worked up that he was sweating.

     “ Huh. I honestly wouldn’t have guessed. You both speak Japanese so fluently,” he noted, making Hakaori chuckle.

     “ Well, both of our parents are Japanese, so it was what we usually spoke at home,” the elder sibling elaborated.

     “ What brought you to Japan, then? Getting back to your roots?” The thin man joked, though he was a bit surprised when the woman before him shook her head, actually answering his question.

     “ No; I mean, it’s nice to see the culture of my heritage in person, but it’s because I wanted to become a hero, and couldn’t do so in Canada,” she explained, piquing his interest.

     “ Why not?” He practically blurted, biting his tongue when she turned to look at him over her shoulder with a strange smile.

     “ Well, aren’t you curious?” She teased, making him blush profusely. His face got even hotter when he caught the smirk that Fumiko wore. She knew why he was so inquisitive.

     “ Er- sorry. You were even scolding Fumi-chan for the same thing,” the blond admitted, taking a hand off her waist to rub his neck nervously, avoiding her gaze.

     “ Don’t worry about it too much, Toshinori-san. But since you asked, I’m guessing that you don’t know much about the current standing of North America in regards to Quirk regulation?” Hakaori asked, instead turning Toshinori’s question back onto him.

     “ Not really. I heard it’s pretty messy there,” he said.

     “ Pretty messy? Try totally insane,” the younger sibling piped up, snatching the attention of the adults.

     “ Is it really that bad…?” Toshinori breathed, looking from Fumiko to Hakaori.

     “ It really is. North America is actually pretty scary now. The government makes you register your Quirk, similar to Japan, but they don’t really do extensive testing to validate your claim. The real issue, though, comes from actual employed pro heroes,” Hakaori started.

     “ Basically, there’s, like, none,” Fumiko added.

     “ Not none, but it’s true that heroes are very sparse. The government doesn’t want to invest in the payment and insurance that heroes generally incur. As such, their workaround is to let vigilantes use their Quirks so the government doesn’t have to pay for any damage caused and they aren’t responsible for it,” the older sibling finished, stealing a quick glance at Toshinori.

     “ I see… but there are still heroes, right? So why couldn’t you apply?” He pried, looking at Hakaori.

     “ I could, and did, apply. I spent a lot of money on it, too. But North America has taken to extremely standardized and nearly impossible tests that benefit only physically augmenting Quirks. There are very few emitter-type heroes in North America. And frankly, being an emitter-type myself, I wasn’t good enough to be a hero there,” she explained, tightening her grip, just slightly, on the reins. “ So… I came to Japan since the testing for applicants is completely different.”

     Toshinori nodded slowly, reflecting on the information she gave him. They weren’t kidding when they said North America was in a bad way. If it was vigilantism that governed primarily, the citizens must be terrified and villains must be abundant. It seemed that his presence as the Symbol of Peace didn’t reach as deeply as he once thought.

     “ And I came along with her… just because!” Fumiko declared with far more pride than one would think appropriate for such a statement. The adults just stared at her blankly.

     “ … Well,” Hakaori shrugged, “ that’s my origin story, I guess.”

     “ I had no idea it was so bad,” Toshinori admitted, feeling his stomach turn uncomfortably, but he cast aside the feeling. There was no sense in letting it affect him; it wasn’t something that he could change at present.

     Everyone fell silent, save for the horses who occasionally snorted and clopped down the path. Fumiko’s pony finally seemed to calm down, walking in pace with the larger horse next to it.

     “ Tell me about yourself, Toshinori-san. I think I’ve done enough talking,” Hakaori finally said, taking her feet out of the stirrups to stretch her legs.

     “ U-um…” he stammered, warmth creeping back into his cheeks. It was hard enough to talk about himself, but in this form… “ Well, I… I’m pretty bland, honestly.” He mentally cringed at how small and self-conscious he sounded. It only worsened when Hakaori chuckled.

     “ You say that like it’s something to be embarrassed about! Bread is bland, too, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad! I love bread,” she giggled.

     Was… that a compliment? It was awkward, but… was she trying to tell him something indirectly? No, she said she wasn’t the type to be cryptic. She probably just actually likes bread.

     “ W-well, when I’m not working, I usually watch movies,” he said, trying to suppress the self-consciousness in his voice. He watched the back of Hakaori’s head bob as she nodded.

     “ I like movies, too! What kind’s your favourite? Mine’s horror,” Hakaori cackled, turning to look at him with a wide grin.

     “ I like action- b-but horror’s good, too,” he added, pausing as he toyed with an idea, finally getting gall enough to give it voice, “ maybe we could get together and-“

     Crashing in the bushes cut him off, drawing the attention of any humans and horses present. All watched as several deer bounded out of the woods and across the trail, flighty, quick, and sudden. Hakaori shushed their horse as he began to spook and reverse, trying to get away from the momentary newcomers. Instinctively, her free hand snapped back and gently gripped Toshinori’s hip, bracing him until the horse settled again, returning to his previous relaxed state. Hakaori breathed out a relaxed sigh, only for her breath to hitch again at another problem.

     A squeal from the pony grabbed her attention. Jerking her head to the side, she only caught a glimpse of a yellow blur as the pony used the deer as an excuse to bolt, completely unphased by Fumiko’s attempts to slow it down by yanking back on the reins.

     Galloping full tilt down the trail, the pony left just a plume of dust and the echoes of screaming from its rider in its wake.

     Great.

Chapter Text

     “ Pull back on your reins!” Hakaori shouted, watching as the pony pulled further and further away. It was surprisingly fast for such a small horse. She sighed deeply when an indignant “ I fucking am!“ resonated back to them.

     “ Saw the bit!” She shouted again, getting a “ the fuck is that!?” in response. The woman groaned as she pinched the bridge of her nose, giving her leisurely horse a gently nudge to resume walking.

     “ Um… shouldn’t we chase her?” Toshinori piped up, looking at Hakaori with obvious concern. He only grew more so when Hakaori shook her head.

     “ No. I’m not going to gallop this horse with two people on him. Despite her obvious terror, she’ll stay on, she just doesn’t like going fast. But I’ve galloped with her before,” she said, looking out into the distance. The pony had disappeared from view, obscured behind hills and trees.

     “ Admittedly… she’s never galloped by herself before…” Hakaori murmured, hoping to catch a glimpse of the pony.

     The two rode further down the trail for another forty minutes or so, without a sign of her sister or the pony being nearby. Hakaori began feeling more and more uneasy as time continued to pass with her sister still missing. She looked around warily, scouting the densely wooded area surrounding them, though what she scouted for, she wasn’t entirely sure. Obviously she was looking for her sister, but she felt like there was something else she should be watching for.

     Why did deer run out into our path? It’s broad daylight… her mind echoed, turning over the idea again and again in her head. Perhaps the deer had merely been startled by the horses' presence, but even so, the woman couldn’t shake this ominous feeling that lingered over her.

     “ How far can horses run? It seems like it’s been a while since they took off,” Toshinori remarked, noticing Hakaori’s discomfort, which added even more to his concern.

     “ It’s hard to say. Depending on how far ahead they got, we might not catch up with them. Though… it doesn’t make sense that Fumi-chan hasn't turned around yet… so honestly, I’m wondering if they might've veered off into the woods,” she said, gripping the reins tighter.

     “ Would… a horse do that?” He asked. It didn’t seem like a sensible thing for an animal to do, but then again, he wasn’t really familiar with horse behaviour.

     “ Horses aren’t always the smartest animals,” she replied, her voice clipped. It probably would have been a joke if the situation were different, but given the circumstance and the tension in her voice, it was obvious that she was being serious.

     “ … I’m starting to worry that she might’ve gotten knocked off. Horses only care if they can get under or around something, but, well, I’ve been clotheslined by branches and sent flying backwards, so…” Hakaori admitted, struggling to swallow against her drying throat.

     Toshinori hummed softly with consideration, rubbing her side gently with his thumb in an attempt to comfort her. He quickly caught himself and stopped, his cheeks heating with embarrassment when he felt her physically tense up under his hand. Way too far ahead for our relationship.

     He perked up when he heard something, peeking around the woman to see a figure- a horse and rider, trotting back towards them. Hakaori also seemed boosted, watching Fumiko approach them.

     “ Why didn’t you turn around sooner?” The elder sibling reprimanded as Fumiko rode up to them.

     “ Fucking sorry I couldn’t get this thing to stop,” the younger woman scoffed indignantly, shooting a glare at the now-tired pony beneath her.

     “ Why didn’t you saw the bit?” Hakaori asked as she turned her horse to walk back alongside her sister.

     “ ‘Cause I don’t know what the fuck that is,” the young woman said, mustering the most impressive of exasperated tones. Hakaori snorted, which made Toshinori chuckle as well. Of course her sister was fine! She was just being paranoid.

     “ It’s when you alternate pressure on each rein and pull their head back and forth. If a horse takes off, you force them to zigzag when you do this, and they literally can’t gallop. It hurts their mouth though, so don’t do it unless you absolutely have to,” the elder explained.

     “ And you didn’t tell me this beforehand becaaaause?” Fumiko chastised, glaring at her sister.

     “ I’ve explained it to you before so I figured you’d remember. Guess not! Whoops,” Hakaori replied with a giggle. This only made the little sibling huff in even more annoyance.

     “ You’re a terrible sister!” Fumiko cried, turning her head away and sticking her nose up.

     Hakaori responded by completely ignoring the insult with a question, “ how did you manage to stop him?”

     “ Oh, um…” the teenager started, her voice turning uncharacteristically low. This grabbed her sister’s attention as the ominous feeling from before settled itself in the pit of her stomach. She looked expectantly at the younger one, waiting for her answer.

     “ There was a guy who happened to be taking a walk in the woods and heard my horse running. He came out into the pathway and cut my horse off,” she explained, her voice wavering slightly. She noted the distrusting stare from Hakaori and immediately tried to alleviate it. “ I don’t know either! But he was there and he helped me, so.” The young woman shrugged.

     “ You’re telling me that a random stranger, who just so happened to be walking in the woods, jumped out in front of a galloping horse and stopped it?” Hakaori clarified, staring at Fumiko.

     There was a long pause before she answered.

     “ Well, he more just kinda was there and put his arms out to stop it. But yeah, basically,” Fumiko said, looking away from her sister’s scrutinizing gaze.

     “ Okay. Just checking,” Hakaori spoke, her tone making it clear that she wasn’t even the least bit convinced as she stared at her little sister. She called bullshit and Fumiko knew it.

     “ It doesn’t matter anyway! I’m fine!” she snapped before calming herself and continuing, “sooooo… did you guys, like, make out while I was gone?” Fumiko asked, quickly derailing the subject and sending the adults into a frenzy. Toshinori exploded into redness and clamped a hand over his mouth as he coughed, turning his head away while Hakaori gasped and also blushed heavily, whipping out a tissue from practically nowhere and handing it back to the half-choked man behind her.

     “ Can’t you just ask normal questions!?” It was Hakaori’s turn to cry out.

     Fumiko cackled maniacally, internally sighing with relief that her sister dropped the subject. It wasn’t that her story was untrue… it was just missing some details. Possibly important ones.

     “ Slow down!” The young woman cried, yanking back on her reins. She knew she was pulling way too hard, but the pony wasn’t listening at all and one of her feet clamped itself hard against the animal’s side, having slipped out of the stirrup completely. She could hardly keep herself balanced on the sprinting equine, opting to cling to the horn with one hand as she watched the whirring scenery pass her by. Tears stung her eyes; salty, scared, angry, frustrated tears. Why hadn’t Hakaori even tried to get the pony under control!? A spiteful part of her mind hoped that she’d get herself hurt, just so her sister would feel bad for letting her pony take off. That idea was tossed to the wind when she realized it was actually a distinct possibility: the pony was veering, gradually, towards the trees surrounding the trail, and of course it was the most densely wooded section.

     Eyes flicking between the woods and the back of the pony’s head, she pulled on the rein opposite of the direction they were going. The pony fought her, so she pulled harder, desperately and gradually steering her ornery steed away from the trees. She felt relief start to wash over her before noticing her next issue: a man had placed himself directly in their path. His hands were raised out to the sides, standing firm, even with a galloping horse thundering towards him. He lunged at the animal, causing the pony to jerk to a stop and rear, sending Fumiko into a screaming fit as her sister’s instruction coming to mind: she leaned forward into the rear, countering her balance and shifting back when the horse came down onto all fours again.

     The man stepped forward, grabbing the reins, acting as an anchor as the pony side stepped and struggled against the new restraint, briefly, before eventually relaxing. Fumiko gasped sharply, releasing a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. She began to give the man a grateful smile, but something about his demeanour stopped her. His face was largely obscured by his hoodie, but what she could see unnerved her for reasons she couldn’t quite place.

     “ Er, thanks for catching my horse,” she said awkwardly, shifting in her saddle. She should really head back…

     “ Of course. You looked like you needed a bit of help, Fumi-chan,” the man replied, grinning at her. His voice was low and unsettling, making the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. It was so familiar…

     “ H-how do you know my name?” She stammered, trying her best to sound intimidating. He merely cackled at her attempted display.

     “ Awwww, I’m hurt! You don’t recognize me? We’ve been talking a while,” he hissed, lifting up his phone, wagging it towards her. Her eyes widened with realization.

     “ I didn’t think you’d come find me…” she murmured, staring at the stranger warily. He just chuckled lowly.

     “ What a rotten sister she is, isn’t she? Leaving you to fend for yourself while she fools around with that guy,” he said, casually, like a person would discuss the weather.

     “ Yeah… she’s a bitch sometimes,” the girl huffed, her breath immediately hitching at the unhinged tone to his laugh.

     “ Sometimes, huh? Guess you don’t realize it yet…” he trailed off cryptically. His mouth twitched into a lunatical sneer when she took the bait, eyes widening slightly in curiosity.

     “ Um… thanks for helping me out. I’m gonna go back,” she concluded, steering her horse around. Nope. Too crazy. Got to get out of here. The man didn’t pursue. She tried not to think about what he said.

     “ She’ll replace you, you know. She’s just looking for an opportunity. She did it to me, and she’ll do it to you. But you’ll figure it out for yourself. I’ve made you aware, so you’ll begin to realize it. Eventually,” he warned, grinning when the girl nudged her pony, forcing the animal to trot.

     “ Run, little girl. Little Fumi-chan.”

     She was breathing too fast.

**********

     Life went back to its usual drawl. Hakaori resumed her teaching internship with a new sense of rejuvenation, though she’d become a bit closer with Toshinori, and she appreciated the occasional hint he’d drop about All Might-this or All Might-that. It was a bit juvenile, but she just chalked it up to karma for the times All Might gave her the roundabout before. Unfortunately, Toshinori was always the mediator in these childish antics, and that’s what really bothered her. She never asked the information, only accepting it because Toshinori seemed adamant that she should know. He was really a good friend to his boss; his secretary and own personal cupid.

     More like he is his own cupid, her mind intruded in the middle of class, making her stop talking mid sentence. Whoosh. Just like that, her train of thought was gone. She stood, mouth agape like she was going to say something, all eyes on her as she drew a blank. A few moments passed before she finally cleared her throat, looking at the board. No hints there. She turned to face the class directly, her face stern and set.

     “ I… have completely forgot what I was talking about!” Forget-Me-Not announced, stunning the whole class. She just grinned and chuckled as she spoke again, “ anyone care to get me back on track?”

     “ We were going over the legality of Quirk usage,” Midoriya reminded her, jogging her memory. She immediately resumed her spiel, much go the chagrin of the students.

     Class ended with no more crashed trains of thought, though she was beckoned by All Might to come to his office. Following him into the room, she gently closed the door and turned to face him, her eyes regarding him curiously.

     “ How are you feeling?” He boomed, grinning his perfect, toothy grin.

     “ Oh, um, I feel fine, why?” She asked, her curiosity only growing.

     “ Well, I should tell you that I’m soon going to report to Mr. Principal about your progress! Your final evaluation is approaching!” He declared, putting his hands on his hips for emphasis. She looked distinctly less fine.

     “ That’s… much sooner than I realized…” she murmured, smiling blankly as she internally combusted with panic. Her future as a teacher was now in the hands of this hulking man. She had been confident in her abilities up until this point, but with an impending evaluation so near, doubt immediately instilled itself into her mind. That same hulking man took note of the fear she now harbored and let out his signature boisterous laugh.

     “ Worry not, dear Forget-Me-Not! I haven’t anything too cruel to report about you. In fact, I daresay your teaching is better than mine in many ways! I strongly suspect that your evaluation will go splendidly!” He bellowed, trying to alleviate her nervousness. He couldn’t really tell if it worked, but his comment seemed to stroke her ego since she blushed.

     “ Thank you,” the heroine said, bowing slightly. He gave her a casual dismissive wave and she stood up straight again.

     “ No thanks needed! I only speak the truth!” He replied, his grin somehow getting wider. She rubbed her neck bashfully, her cheeks still flushed. Argh! She was so cute when she was embarrassed!

     “ Was there anything else?” She mustered, looking at him nervously. Why was she so nervous? Was it about the evaluation? She was a little nervous about that, but… this nervousness. She wanted there to be something else.

     “ Hmmm…" he wondered aloud, pretending like there wasn't something else he wanted to say. " Well… are you doing anything this Sunday?” He asked, his voice lowering slightly. She didn’t know if he was just being conscientious of any potential listeners or if he was just sheepish about asking her out, but it was cute.

     “ I have this sneaking suspicion that I might be spending some time with you,” she alleged, giving him a reassuring grin. His own grin faltered and his cheeks flushed now. She was also so damned forward sometimes…!

     “ Nothing terribly fancy. I was thinking we could watch a movie,” he proposed, watching as she playfully tapped her lip in thought.

     “ At home?” She inquired, looking at him. He regarded her as well, looking for some indication on whether that’s what she’d prefer. Or maybe she’d like to go to the theatre?

     “ Whatever you’d like!” He bellowed, regaining his grin. He could always just let her pick. That way he’s guaranteed to win some points!

     “ Okay then. At home. My home,” she replied, giving him a coy, almost teasing smile.

     “ Very well! Your house it is!” He agreed, his grin unwavering but his cheeks still betraying his nervousness. He’d be going to her house. Most likely in the evening. Will Fumiko be present? A selfish part of him hoped not; the alone time would be nice. Wait- this isn’t going to be a Netflix and chill sort of thing, is it!? No- she’s too classy for that. Should I dress up? Or is this super casual? The torrent of thoughts was finally interrupted by the vibration of his phone.

     “ I just texted you my address. Does after dinner work for you?” She asked, slipping her phone back into its hiding place. He nodded.

     “ Do you have a balcony?”

     She stared at him blankly, taken aback by the question.

     “ Er, yes, why?” She inquired, her voice distinctly wary.

     “ What does it look like?” Was his answer. She squinted at him.

     “ … it has a small rectangular potted plant and a little blue table and chair set on it,” she elaborated, still eyeing him suspiciously.

     He was going to come through the balcony, wasn’t he?

**********

     “ Sis, can I go out with my friends tonight? A new movie just came out and they’re all going-“

     Hakaori practically slam-dunked fifty-thousand yen into Fumiko’s palm. The younger sister just stared at the large sum of money that she now apparently possessed.

     “ Will this be enough?” The elder woman asked, looking at her sister. Her heart was hammering in her chest. The apartment would be all hers… and All Might’s. Yagi’s. The thought made her so giddy, she almost burst out into a fit of giggles in front of Fumiko.

     “ And why exactly are you being so generous all of a sudden? You never give me this much money,” Fumiko remarked, staring at her sister now. She smirked when their eyes connected, though she was pretty sure she knew why.

     “ Because Yagi-san is coming over and I want you out of the house- ah- fuck!” The elder sibling blurted, eliciting a wicked grin from the younger.

     “ I figured it was something like that. Just, don’t bang on my bed, okay?” Fumiko requested as she helped Hakaori wash and dry the last of dinner’s dishes.

     “ Darn. Ruined my plans for the night,” Hakaori replied dryly, emphasising her sarcasm. Fumiko hip checked her in response. They couldn’t help but giggle at their playful squabble as they slipped the last of the dishes into the cupboard. Hakaori was so excited, she couldn’t even muster the will to scold her sister for the not age appropriate remark.

     “ So, are you actually gonna bang, or…?” the little sibling pried, cackling when her sister almost choked on air.

     “ No!” Hakaori exclaimed before composing herself and continuing, “ if things go well, maybe, maybe, I’ll cuddle with him. Maybe.”

     Fumiko snorted. “ You’re such a virgin!”

     Hakaori scoffed incredulously. “ I am not a virgin! Now just hang on a few minutes, I forgot to put a bra on,” the older sibling added as she disappeared down the hall.

     " You won't need that!" Fumiko called down the hall. She snickered at the noise her sister made in response. 

     A tapping noise grabbed Fumiko’s attention. She paused and waited, ensuring that she hadn’t just imagined the sound, but there it was. Coming from the balcony…? She wandered over to the curtained door and listened. Yep. Tapping. She quickly drew back the drapery, expecting a bird or something.

     It was a huge ass bird. And by bird, she meant man. And by man, she meant All Might. Casually dressed in a white t-shirt and green cargo pants, standing on the balcony, randomly, like it was the normal way to enter someone's house. He put his hand up to wave, his lips parting to speak.

     “ NOPE,” she blurted as she pulled the curtain shut. The reality of the situation dawned on her: All Might, super hero celebrity, Symbol of Peace, amazingness embodied, was standing on the balcony. Waiting to come in. To hang out with her lame ass sister. Do adults even hang out!?

     She drew back the curtain once more. He was still there, all grinning and heroic-like. He went to speak but was cut off by the curtain closing. Again.

     “ Siiiiiiis!”

Chapter Text

     " Siiiiiiis!”

     A moment of silence.

     “ Sis! Your boyfriend is here!”

     B-Boyfriend!? The term was so juvenile, but it made his heart beat hard against his ribcage all the same. Was Fumiko just being bratty, or had Hakaori told her something more?

     “ What are you yelling about?”

     “ You’re gonna wear that?”

     “ Yeah? What’s wrong with this?”

     A snort. “ He’s like a super celebrity and you look like a hobo.”

     “ Don’t you have a movie to go to?”

     “ Oh, yeah!” The sound of feet pattering away echoed through the glass.

     Finally, the curtain drew back again, this time revealing the woman of his affections. And oh man; dressing up was not on her mind. She wore her hair up in a messy bun, an oversized sweater that tried its best to stay on her shoulder, and sweat pants adorned with little video game characters. He’d never seen her look so casual! Cute, cute, cute.

     She unlocked something and pulled the balcony door open, stepping aside to let the giant hero in.

     “ I am here!” He declared, grinning at the empty room before him.

     “ Hello,” came her very normal, very plain response. Her voice sounded chipper, though, so either she was not nearly as nervous as he, or she was super good at hiding it.

     She beckoned him to follow, gesturing to her sofa. “ You can sit and make yourself at home. Fumi-chan is going out for the night, so we can breathe easy,” she chuckled, giving him a timid smile. Apparently, breathing easy wasn’t yet the plan as Fumiko scampered over, clutching a permanent marker. She was dressed up and ready to leave, even wearing her shoes.

     “ Can you sign my jacket?” The young woman asked, her voice uncharacteristically high and nervous as she presented All Might with the marker. Not one to reject his fans, he took the marker, giving her his usual large grin, though it took a nervous tone as he saw Hakaori cross her arms and roll her weight onto one hip. Fortunately, her agitation didn’t appear to be directed at him.

     “ Fumiko,” the elder sibling warned, her voice making it clear that she wasn’t impressed. Fumiko looked at her sister with a small smile.

     “ Don’t worry!” She insisted, flitting her gaze from her sister to All Might, addressing them both. “ I won’t tell anyone that you’re here! Everyone knows that All Might works at U.A. now, so if anyone asks, I’ll say that my sister got it signed for me since she works there, too!” Fumiko grinned, looking between the two of them.

     The adults exchanged awkward glances, with Hakaori shrugging indifferently at All Might’s inquiring gaze. Taking her subtle hint, All Might grinned at Fumiko, stooping to sign her jacket.

     “ Very well! Where shall I sign?” He boomed enthusiastically. Fumiko grinned widely- a genuine grin, unlike her usual malicious smirks or sneers. She looked so much like her sister when she smiled.

     “ Right here would be cool!” She chirped, pointing to the fabric waist band that lined the bottom of her coat. Pulling off the cap, he scrawled his name in the usual bold font he used, doodling a small, shadowy and grinning face next to it. Fumiko bounced away and squealed in delight when he finished, admiring the autograph adoringly. He could practically see little flowers radiating from her, her happiness was so apparent.

     “ Thank you thank you thank you!” She cried merrily, bowing slightly before him.

     His reply was mixed with a hearty laugh as he stood up. “ No worries! I’m always happy to please my fans! Now, didn’t you have a movie to attend?”

     “ Yeah!” She chimed, running to the front door and grabbing her bag. She turned to look at him once more. “ Thanks again! You’d make a pretty cool brother-in-law!” She remarked before disappearing out the door, leaving the adults flabbergasted and red-faced. He chuckled awkwardly when Hakaori covered her face in embarrassment.

     “ Well… that’s my little sister, Fumiko. Sorry she’s a little… unabashed,” she murmured, giving the hero a small, apologetic smile.

     “ Nonsense! She’s very endearing,” he replied, grinning widely at the woman.

     “ That’s… one way to describe her, I suppose,” she said, making both pause for a moment before chuckling. She walked over and flicked on her T.V. and video game console. She moseyed back over to him, presenting him with a controller once she had accessed Netflix.

     “ Since I forced you to come out here, I figured you can pick what we’ll watch,” she joked with a sweet smile. He accepted the controller and seated himself on the sofa- an action that the piece of furniture protested with a small creak. He was a very big man, after all.

     “ I don’t think there was much in the way of forcing,” he admitted, making her blush again. “ You like horror movies, right?”

     She eyed him before speaking, “ yes. Toshinori must have told you, right? It’s like you two are part of a hive mind,” she teased, making him flush with what she could only assume was embarrassment. She just chuckled at his response before giving him an out. “ Do you like popcorn?”

     “ Ah, why yes! Lightly buttered, if you would,” he requested, eliciting another smile as she disappeared into the kitchen. He turned his attention to the screen, navigating the horror section of the movie app.

     Netflix and chill, his mind hissed, reminding him of his previous thought a few days ago, making his cheeks flush anew. No. No Netflix and chill. He was going to do this right!

     He settled on some paranormal movie that had high ratings, which he figured would probably be good enough. Maybe it would scare her enough that she’d seek refuge in his arms! He blushed at the thought. This woman practically reduced him to that of adolescent hormones. Turning his attention to the room around him, he noted how sparsely decorated it was. Not empty, just spacious.

     To his side, he noticed several photos in frames, one which bore a photo of Fumiko, grinning and cradling the head of a brown and white horse. Upon closer inspection, he realized it was actually a young Hakaori, probably around Fumiko’s current age, and she and the horse were covered in dirt. Another photo bore four people, two he recognized as a young Hakaori and a very young Fumiko, along with a woman who both sisters strongly resembled; their mother? And a man whom they also resembled, though far less so. Something else about the photo caught his attention. He could just barely make out what appeared to be part of an arm next to their father. Picking up the picture to inspect it more closely, he noted how the photo didn’t quite fit properly in the frame- too narrow- and the side of the picture appeared to have been cut off, cropping the other person from view, like someone had cut them out of the image.

     Curious, he thought, absently staring at the picture. The same brown and white horse made an appearance in this photo as well, standing next to Hakaori, with the girl clutching a rope loosely affixed to the horse’s neck.

     “ Creeping my family photos?” She teased, clutching a huge bowl of popcorn. He nearly jumped out of his skin, fumbling to put the frame back where he found it like he’d been caught reading her diary. She laughed at the display, plopping herself down to his right. A few kernels of popcorn escaped with the jerky gesture. She just brushed them on the floor.

     “ D-does this look okay?” He stammered, regaining his boisterous composure. Her eyes flickered over the screen as she read the synopsis.

     “ Sounds good to me! Oh- shoot!” She huffed, placing the giant bowl of popcorn in his lap, “ I forgot drinks! What do you want?” She asked as she rose to her feet again.

     “ Soda is fine, if you have any,” he replied, grinning at her.

     “ Pffff, a movie and popcorn without pop,” she snickered like the idea was humorously preposterous, disappearing into the kitchen for a second time. This time, he watched her as she went, involuntarily realizing she was wearing those kind of sweat pants that really accentuate the wearer’s assets. He cleared his throat and quickly turned his gaze away, mentally scolding himself for ogling as his cheeks warmed up again. It must be her womanly pheromones.

     She returned a few moments later, carrying two glasses full of the dark, bubbling liquid. She placed them on coffee table in front of the couch, flicked out the primary light so only the screen light illuminated the room, and took her place beside him again. She reclaimed her giant bowl of popcorn, already starting to munch on it, even as he only just started the movie.

     Like most horror films, it started out really slow, introducing characters one by one, building up the supposedly normal life they’re supposed to be living. Hakaori watched the screen with wide, intent eyes, shoveling handfuls of popcorn into her mouth, versus the few kernels All Might ate each time. She was so transfixed on the movie, sitting up straight, eating absently, seemingly oblivious to his presence. He had to admit that he wasn’t used to it- most people couldn’t take their attention off of him when they were with him, and it was surprisingly refreshing to have someone treat him so normally, even in his hero form.

     The film began to pick up, and the first scary scene played out. It made the small woman jump a bit and squeak, launching some popcorn before giggling, watching the actors play out their horror. He couldn’t help but chuckle silently at her response. She was like a little kid!

     “ Hehe, I knew that was going to happen, and I still jumped,” she murmured, giving him a sheepish smile, cheeks barely visibly flushed in the low light. He chuckled again, audibly this time, in response. His arm twitched and he almost lifted it, hesitating as he really contemplated putting his arm around her. Would that be too forward? He decided to hold off, instead reaching into the bowl to find no popcorn left. She’d eaten it all already!? She paused, handful of popcorn prepared to be stuffed into her mouth, noticing the lack of snack in the bowl. She snickered with embarrassment as she offered her handful to him.

     “ Guess I ate it all…” she admitted bashfully, rubbing her neck timidly. He just grinned and took a small portion of the handful.

     “ No worries, though I’m surprised you ate so much,” he murmured, noticing her face flush harder. She put the now empty bowl on the coffee table, drawing her knees up to her chest. They turned their attention back to the movie, watching as some unknown force dragged the female lead out of bed.

     With no more popcorn to distract her, she side eyed the hero next to her as he popped one kernel after another into his mouth. He hadn’t put the moves on her thus far, so she decided to take matters into her own hands. Watching the screen for another scary scene, she scooted closer to him, nestling up against his arm. She felt the large muscles flex and tense, feeling the sixth sense one gets when someone is looking at them.

     “ Scary,” she play-whimpered as explanation for her closeness, though she was careful of her tone to make it clear that she wasn’t genuinely afraid, and there was definitely an ulterior motive. He quirked an eyebrow at her.

     “ … I’ll protect you then,” he whispered, though he sounded more serious than she anticipated, slowly lifting his arm so she could nestle closer. And she did, rather quickly. Resting her cheek on his right pectoral, she rested her arm on his stomach, feeling her face catch fire as he wrapped his arm around her, cradling her close. Well, she did indeed feel safe. Losing interest in the movie momentarily, she nuzzled closer to him, breathing in deeply, drawing in his scent. It was so pleasant, clean and fresh, and he was so warm! Listening to his quickened heartbeat, she giggled softly, garnering his attention again.

     “ Hm?” He hummed, his chest vibrating with the sound against her ear.

     “ I can hear your heart beating. Are you nervous?” She asked, her voice soft and playful.

     “ I’m fairly certain that means I’m alive,” he rumbled teasingly, earning an incredulous smile from the woman snuggled against him as she sat up and playfully swatted his shoulder, returning to her previous position.

     “ You know what I meant! It’s beating quickly, you dork,” she corrected, smiling wider when she felt him chuckle. He lifted his free hand to scratch his cheek timidly, his heart rate picking up again in her ear.

     “ It’s… been some time since I’ve relaxed quite so much with someone,” he explained, blushing again when she began drawing gentle circles on his abs.

     “ Well…” she began, trailing off so she could swallow. Here goes… her own heart began racing as she continued, “… we could always make this a more regular thing,” she offered, feeling butterflies stir in her stomach as his heart beat hard against her cheek.

     Several moments passed between them, making her grow even more nervous with every silent second that expired. She went to sit up, to look at him, but he held her close instead, finally breaking the silence.

     “ I would like that, but…” he started, making her look up at him.

     “ But…?” She coaxed, gripping his shirt gently.

     “ It would be dangerous. For you and for Fumiko,” he explained, his voice becoming stronger.

     “ I know that. We can keep it secret. Private,” she offered, slowly sitting up to look at him more directly. He looked pensive, his usual grin having fallen.

     “ And there is much you don’t know about me,” he added, looking at her directly.

     “ Would you be willing to open up to me, then?” She asked, meeting his gaze squarely. Despite the dim light, she could see his irises, burning and intense, blue like the ocean. She swallowed tightly. She knew those eyes. She was sure of it now.

     “ I don’t know if I could,” he admitted, almost shamefully, dropping their gaze.

     “ I won’t force you. If you’re not comfortable in telling me something, then don’t,” she said, strong and simple.

     More silence befell them. He broke it once more.

     “ What would you think if you knew the parts of me that weren’t so heroic?” He asked, meeting her gaze again. She stared back, hard, swallowing against a dry throat as her palms began to sweat. Now or never.

     “ Because you don’t always look like this?” She countered, running her hand along his arm. His muscles tensed under her touch, and he shifted away, looking at her with more shock than he probably intended.

     “ What are you…”

     “ Because, sometimes, you’re smaller, more vulnerable. Because you don’t think anyone is capable of appreciating all aspects of you?” She added, staring him down. Her own emerald eyes glistened with her inner strength, bright and nearly blinding. He wanted so badly to surrender, to kiss her. But he refrained.

     “ I need to go,” he spoke curtly, rising to his feet. She watched as he strode towards the balcony and gripped the cushion.

     “ Wait,” she called, though he kept walking, steadfast, to the balcony.

     “ Yagi Toshinori,” she commanded, rising to her feet, turning to face him. Finally, he stopped, standing a few feet from the door. Neither moved. Neither dared.

     “ You’re… you’re the same person, aren’t you?” She asked, her voice lowering, softening.

     “ You said you wouldn’t force anything, did you not?” He retorted, keeping his back to her.

     “ I’m not forcing, but I never said I wouldn’t ask. If you don’t want to answer, then don’t. But regardless of what you do now, I know. I know that you’re Toshinori,” she spoke, her voice firm, strong, but not aggressive.

     “ … How can you be sure?” He asked. His hands were balled into fists.

     “ I knew for sure when we went on that trip. I had only suspected it until then, but… I just… read your signature on the hold harmless agreement. And before that, you both always knew things that the other shouldn’t. You played it off as simply sharing information, but… and All Might was never present if Toshinori was, or vice versa. And why would Toshinori wear identical clothes to All Might that were far too big for him? Unless he had to accommodate for something… like a larger body,” she explained, looking at him with a gentle expression.

     So many stupid mistakes. Mistakes he made because he was blinded by his emotions. If these are the mistakes he’s made already, can he really pursue something further with someone else…?

     “ Toshinori… I’m not rejecting you. I wanted to be careful, in case I was wrong. I didn’t want to be unfaithful, but that doesn’t mean that I can’t accept you as you are, whichever way you are.”

     Silence.

     “ … if you still want to go, I won’t stop you,” Hakaori added, letting her demeanour drop somewhat.

     He continued to stand, back to her. She knew. He could leave, but it wouldn’t make a difference. Dropping his head slightly, he decided that he’d face this head on, come what may. Steam began to billow from his body before shooting out in a cloud, temporarily obscuring him from view. It was quick to dissipate, revealing the thin, emaciated form of Toshinori. Steeling his nerves, he turned to her, tipping his head back slightly, meeting her gaze again.

     She stared back at him, her face filled with bewilderment. It was like he deflated! She smiled a bit, stepping forward and closing the distance between them until she was within arm’s reach.

     “ You’re right,” he confirmed, looking down his nose at her. His arms were shaking. She said she wasn’t rejecting him, but...

     Stepping even closer, he was taken aback when her arms gently twined around his hips, her cheek pressing gently against his chest. Her smile grew as she listened to the thumping of his heart, just as strong and quick as before. He might look different, but he was definitely the same.

     “ I don’t want you to go,” she whispered against his shirt, squeezing him a little tighter. His side ached in protest to the gesture, but he ignored it, instead putting his hands on her shoulders and guiding her backwards so he could look at her.

     “ Can you really accept me as I am now? I know this form isn’t what you wanted. I’m not even half the man I used to be- the time I can spend in that form gets shorter by the day. This is how I look most of the time; can you really accept that? I’m not what you wanted,” he asked, his voice tight, revealing to her just how nervous, scared, even, that he was. He was vulnerable, and moreover, afraid of being rejected.

     Dropping her gaze from his, she contemplated what he’d said. Lifting her hands to his on her shoulders, she removed them, clutching both of his hands in hers, lowering their hands between them. She didn’t let go, instead noticing how much larger they were than hers, even in his smaller form, and how nice they felt between hers.

     She found that even when she tried, she couldn’t think about what he said- there simply wasn’t anything to think about. Her mind was already made up, but how to get him to believe her, she wasn’t sure. He shifted slightly in front of her, making her look back up at him. His eyes were turned away and he looked terribly dejected- had he taken her silence for confirmation of what he said…?

     “ Once I decide I like somebody, that’s really all there is to it. When I put my head on your chest just now, I listened to your heart beat, and it sounded every bit as strong and nervous as it did before. Because you’re still the same person, the person that I like,” she whispered, giving him her best reassuring smile, coaxing him to look at her. And he did. He just gazed at her, her beaming face, her lightly flushed cheeks, her soft lips, her sparkling eyes. He scanned them, searching for traces of doubt, disappointment, disgust, anything that might suggest she’s lying, but he couldn’t find anything. Just dilated pupils that regarded him affectionately in the dim light. It made his heart flutter.

     “ I’m sorry I didn’t tell you,” he murmured, looking into her eyes, feeling guilt nestle itself in the hollow of where his stomach once was. She tipped her head slightly, giving him an inquisitive stare.

     “ But you did tell me,” she corrected, “ if there’s one thing I’ve learned in adulthood, it’s never to reprimand someone who tells you a secret. They’re entrusting you with something important, so I feel flattered and happy that you were honest with me,” she spoke softly, gently pulling his hands around her waist. He moved with his hands, letting himself get pulled into the embrace, gripping the fabric of her sweater as he stooped and nuzzled the base of her neck, feeling her arms snake around him to complete the tender embrace. They stayed like that for a while, just breathing softly and enjoying the closeness of the other, finally parting when they heard someone scream on the movie that they were supposed to be watching.

     “ … Want to watch something else?” She asked, shifting so she could look over at the T.V. Reluctantly, he withdrew his hands from her, instead settling for holding her hand. He ran his thumb lightly over the top, surprised to find the skin as soft as it was.

     “ I would like that,” he answered, the two then wandering back over to the couch. Hakaori scooped up the controller as Toshinori sat down, quickly taking her place next to him. She exited the movie, going back to the listings to choose something else.

     “ Before we start another movie,” he began, grabbing her attention, “ I want to show you something.”

     “ Of course,” she breathed, setting down the controller and turning towards him. Her eyes flitted downward, following his hands as he hitched up his shirt on the left side, releasing a shaky breath. She couldn’t see well in the dim light, so she gestured towards the small table lamp next to them. A nod signified it was alright, so she flicked it on, illuminating the two on the couch- and the injury on his side. She inhaled sharply, not quite a gasp, but a definite noise of surprise, lifting a hand towards it without thinking. She stopped before actually touching him, looking up at him nervously.

     “ Pretty bad, huh?” He croaked, giving her a tight smile, clearly uncomfortable in showing her. “ You… can touch it if you want, just be careful.”

     She nodded, gingerly setting her fingertips on the marred skin, tracing it curiously. It consumed nearly the entire left side of his torso- in this form, at least- with a distinct central area; like a hole that healed over. He sucked in a breath, not a physically pained sound, but strained. Obviously he wasn’t used to having it touched.

     “ I got hurt in a battle about five years ago. It completely destroyed my stomach and part of my respiratory system,” he explained, watching as she traced the scars that fanned outward, making him shiver. It wasn’t that the sensation was unpleasant, just unfamiliar. He watched as she paused and her eyes lit up when she realized something.

     “ That’s why you don’t eat much!” She exclaimed, giving him a wide grin. Then she realized what they were talking about and blushed profusely. “ I-I’m sorry! I just wondered why you ate so little. I thought you were on a diet or something. I didn’t mean that how it sounded-“

     “ It’s alright!… Or maybe I should demand some sort of compensation for hurting my feelings,” he teased, chuckling when she huffed.

     “ Depends on the compensation,” she replied coyly, cocking an eyebrow at him as she flicked off the lamp again. He coughed nervously, though it was more an action to clear his throat. She grabbed the controller and gently nestled up at his side, positioning herself so she held most of her weight, but still got to be close to him. She placed her legs over his lap, keeping her butt on the couch, and laid her head on his shoulder.

     “ It’s going to be awfully hard on your neck to watch a movie like that,” he pointed out, looking down at her, hoping his blush wasn’t too obvious.

     “ I honestly only want to cuddle right now,” she admitted, looking back at him. Her cheeks were flushed too, and he nodded, finding himself wanting the same. She picked some random movie to put on as ambiance, setting the controller aside as she lightly leaned against him, smiling when he curled his arms around her, holding her close.

     “ So… did you want to make this a regular thing?” She asked again, drawing patterns on his collarbone.

     “ … Yes,” he answered sheepishly. This made her giggle.

     “ You’re cute,” she said simply, giving his shoulder a small peck. She watched as his entire face and neck turned red, making her laugh again.

     He cleared his throat. “ So then… does this mean…” he trailed off, becoming too awkward to finish the sentence.

     “ … We’re a thing?” She finished for him, noting how he nodded curtly. “ I like being a thing.”

     “ Me too,” he murmured, hugging her closer.

     “ … Wasurenagusa Hakaori.”

     He looked at her blankly for a moment.

     “ That’s my full name. But it’s a mouthful, so Haka-chan is fine,” she explained, smiling at him.

     “ Haka-chan,” he parroted, testing the nickname on his tongue. “ What are you going to call me, then?”

     “ Cute,” she answered simply, making him cough. Without missing a beat, she stretched over and snatched a tissue from the coffee table, handing it to him.

     “ Th-thanks,” he stammered, taking the tissue to wipe his mouth. “ I have to admit, in all my time as the Symbol of Peace, not many have described me as cute.”

     “ Oh? Sorry. Sexy, then,” she purred, giving him a sly smirk. This sent him into a full blown coughing fit. She sat upright and regarded him with concern, but he just waved her off.

     “ C-Cute is fine,” he quickly backtracked, wiping the blood away from his mouth with the tissue. She offered him his soda to rinse it down, which he accepted. He could hardly permit sexy as a pet name as he was now.

     They cuddled for a while longer, only stirring when the doorknob started jiggling. Hakaori quickly pulled herself away and sat next to him, reaching over to flick on the light. Toshinori puffed up into his muscular form, catching the woman by surprise as evidenced by the look on her face.

     Fumiko walked in the door, noticing the dimmed lights. She flicked the main light on, watching as All Might rose to his feet.

     “ Well, I’d best be heading out!” he bellowed, grinning widely as he strode over to the balcony door. Hakaori stood and followed him, drawing back the curtain and unlocking the latch. He slid the door open and stepped out, flanked by Hakaori who let the curtain fall and obscure them from view. She pushed the sliding door shut before turning to him again.

     “ Thanks for coming over today,” she whispered, her cheeks flushing for the millionth time this evening.

     “ No, thank you,” he countered, grabbing her by the waist and easily hoisting her up, holding her against him. Her eyes widened and she braced herself on his shoulders.

     “ Well, in that case, you’re welcome,” she teased, giving him a grin. He held her against him, simply gazing at her, making her blush as her grin wavered.

     “ Hakaori,” he stated, making her eyes widen slightly when he used her full name and dropped the honorific.

     “ Yes?” She replied, feeling butterflies flutter in her stomach at the intense look he was giving her.

     “ May I ki-“

     “ Yes!” She blurted, not even giving him time to finish his request. His brow raised slightly, registering the needy tone to her voice.

     “ Well, if you’re that insist-“

     She hushed him with her lips this time, closing the distance between their mouths. He faltered at first, surprised by the sudden onslaught of her kiss, but he quickly eased into it, kissing her back, deep but chaste. She wrapped her arms around his neck; he lifted an arm up to cradle the back of hers, deepening their kiss further, the air quiet save for the clicking of their melding lips.

     Curious of what was taking her sister so long, Fumiko peeped around the curtain, nearly choking on her spit when she saw her older sister just casually kissing All Might. Closing the curtain quickly, she stared at the floor.

     “Oh. My. God. ‘Just cuddling’ my ass.”

Chapter Text

     Slipping back through the balcony door, Hakaori was greeted by the most unsettling of sneers from Fumiko. Trying to ignore her sister, she walked past, heading towards her bedroom.

     “ I thought you said you were only maybe going to cuddle?” Fumiko jabbed, still sneering.

     “ Are you suggesting that you were spying on me out on the balcony?” Her sister replied, her voice carrying a distinct tone of warning. Fumiko’s hands shot up innocently.

     “ I was just worried that you might’ve fallen off or something! I didn’t think you’d be halfway down his throat,” Fumiko muttered. Hakaori whirled around and shot a glare at her sister.

     “ It was just a kiss. Tactful and chaste; two things you should learn to be,” Hakaori retorted, turning her back and resuming her trek to her bedroom. She sighed when she heard feet pattering behind her, past her sister’s bedroom.

     “ Sooooo, is he a good kisser?” Fumiko jeered, flanking her sister.

     “ If I answer you, will you leave me alone?” Hakaori replied, keeping her gaze fixed on her bedroom door.

     “ I just wanna know all the juicy details! You kissed All Might, y’know. Just casually the number one hero of ever,” Fumiko whined, sticking her bottom lip out at her sister.

     “… He is a very pleasant kisser,” Hakaori said, unable to hide the happiness in her voice as her mouth curled up into a smile, remembering the feeling of his lips on hers. Oh, how she already longed to kiss him again. So lovestruck.

     “ It was that good, huh?” Fumiko inquired without sincerity, her voice dry, “ gonna spend some alone time under the sheets?” She added, her voice picking up its usual taunting timbre.

     “ Goodnight, Fumi-chan,” Hakaori groaned, disappearing behind her door and promptly locking it. She listened idly as Fumiko walked away, sighing with relief and stripping off her sweater and pants, leaving her in a camisole and panties. Draping them lightly over her desk chair, her bra soon joined the other articles and she fished out her phone from the pocket of the now-removed sweatpants, flopping over on the bed. She had a text from All Might’s number. Almost too eagerly, she opened it, reading the contents inside:

>>I am home now! Thank you, once again, for having me tonight.

>Thank you for coming. I have to admit, I’m surprised by the outcome.

     She blushed at the admission, feeling regret churn her belly. Had it sounded too self-conscious?

>>Why?

     She hesitated, thinking of how to best explain herself without sounding too needy or attention-seeking.

>All Might doesn’t strike me as the romantic type for anyone but his mistress, Justice.

     There. A joke. That always makes things better.

>>Ha ha, maybe not. But -Toshinori- is a hopeless romantic.

>”Hopeless” isn’t the word I’d use. Just romantic.

     A pause. She imagined his frail form sputtering in surprise at the remark.

>>I’m really not sure what to say. But thank you.

>You’re welcome, Toshi-kun.

>>So that’s my nickname?

>Oh right, I forgot. I meant sexy-kun.

     … Another pause.

>>Why did you put kun after??

>>Toshi-kun is just fine.

>Hm, what about sexy-Toshi-kun?

>>Stop that!

>Sorry Toshi-kun. You’re just so fun to tease.

>>How cruel.

>I’m sorry. You’ll forgive me, won’t you?

>>Hm. Just this once.

     She chuckled at his response, sending one more text to inform him that she was going to sleep. They wished each other a good night, and she couldn’t contain the tingling in her stomach and extremities. The heroine had always told herself that affection would be different as an adult, though she had no basis for the assumption, and was now realizing that it still brought the same vigor that she had welcomed in her younger years. The sole difference came with her age. She was older, wiser, and with the knowledge of her past mistakes, she was determined to make this work.

     Moseying to the bathroom, she brushed her teeth and washed her face, looking at her reflection in the mirror as water dripped down her nose and cheeks, examining her visage. It wasn’t that she didn’t like her own face, in fact, she didn’t think it was particularly difficult to look at, but when she imagined herself in relation to All Might, she felt self-consciousness rear its ugly head and nag at her mind.

     He likes you for you, she reminded herself, lightly brushing her lips with her fingertips as she quashed the offending feeling.

     Walking back to her bedroom, she nestled into the sheets, replaying the night’s events over and over in her head until sleep finally had her.

**********

     Forget-Me-Not sat in principal Nezu’s office once again, the third month of her internship nearly expired. The first semester had ended as well, leaving only her final evaluation to contend with.

     Seated on the sofa, her gaze wandered briefly to the muscular hero sitting on the opposite end of her, her mind trying to decipher why exactly Nezu would invite Toshinori- All Might- to this evaluation. Perhaps he was going to get All Might to give some feedback as well.

     “ Would either of you like some tea?” The mouse-cat man offered, presenting Forget-Me-Not with a full cup upon her acceptance. All Might had some as well, and Forget-Me-Not took a mental snapshot of the number one hero holding a comically small tea cup. She would’ve even laughed, but right now, she was strictly business.

     “ How have you found the school thus far?” Nezu asked, taking a sip of his tea.

     “ This school is amazing. Honestly, I find the students exemplify this the most. Despite all of their contrasting personalities, every single one of them strives to be a pro hero, and they all do their best. I think that in itself shows how high of regard this school is held,” she explained, fighting the blush threatening to fill her cheeks as Nezu laughed softly, busying herself with her tea.

     “ It sounds like you’re quite comfortable here!” Nezu mused, sipping some tea before continuing, “ I’ve been considering what your final evaluation would consist of.”

     Furrowing her brow slightly, she regarded the man curiously. “ Oh? Apologies, but I thought that this meeting was my final evaluation?” The chuckle that Nezu emitted made her palms sweat.

     “ Ah! If I’m honest, it was supposed to be, but upon thinking about it further, I realized something,” the principal began, leaving his thought in suspense as he sipped more tea. After a pause, Forget-Me-Not realized he must be looking for a prompt.

     “ What did you realize?” She coaxed, keeping her voice level and polite.

     “ Well, I’ve seen your performance in videos and I’ve read your reports, however, I’ve never seen your skill in person. And with the theme of our final exams for the students this year, I’ve decided to have you battle with one of our faculty members,” he explained, his gaze switching from Forget-Me-Not to All Might, “ and that is why I’ve summoned you here as well!” Nezu smiled, far too cheery for what he was about to announce. “ For your final evaluation, you shall fight All Might!”

     What. She kept her face level, looking at the principal with polite wonder. All Might erupted with his signature laughter at her side, making her stomach pitch violently.

     “ Splendid idea, Mr. Principal!” The blond hero bellowed, grinning widely.

     Yeah. For you. You could easily punch me into next week, her mind hissed. She just smiled widely.

     “ While I accept your offer, I am a little concerned,” a swell of egoism compressed her chest, “ wouldn’t it be inconvenient to be down a faculty member?” Forget-Me-Not asked, keeping her voice especially even and professional.

     “ Oh, no need to worry about that! Think of it like sparring. We also have our Recovery Girl to assist with any injuries, so you’ll be just fine,” Nezu replied, giving her a confident smile.

     “ Thank you for your concern, Principal Nezu, but I wasn’t referring to myself,” she elaborated, sipping her tea daintily. All Might immediately quirked an eyebrow at her, his grin widening with uncharacteristic menace. She caught his gaze and gave him a sweet smile. Nezu hummed softly, regarding her with interest.

     “ Very well! Both of you, report to my office after lunch, tomorrow. We’ll then head to the training area and conduct the final evaluation!” The principal announced with a voice that was still far too cheery for the given situation.

     Stepping out of the office after the woman, All Might gazed down at her, closing the door behind them. He wasn’t sure, but she seemed to have been avoiding his gaze after her display of gusto.

     “ I didn’t take you for one to be so exorbitantly confident!” The Symbol of Peace boomed, grinning widely at her. Forget-Me-Not kept her eyes glued to the hallway in front of them, wishing she could die in that moment. She was already going to tomorrow, so did it really matter when?

     “ I actually just have a death wish,” was her reply, supposed to be a joke but her voice faltered and shook, betraying her nervousness. At least he laughed.

     “ Worry not! I won’t kill you!” He said, his voice carrying far too much genuine reassurance.

     “ Appreciated,” she responded, overly short and strained.

     “ That being said…” All Might started, his voice unusually low and malicious. Forget-Me-Not turned her head to look up at him, but in one fell swoop, before her brain even had time to process what was happening, she was suddenly in an office, All Might’s office, a large arm around her shoulders as the other massive arm shut the door. She realized they had been passing it by and, apparently, he decided to take a detour.

     “ … Don’t think I won’t let that confident little quip go unaddressed,” he practically hissed with that same wicked grin from earlier, turning her to face him, holding her still with one great hand as the other tipped her chin up to look at him. She stared at the burning blue irises obscured in shadow, feeling her throat dry out and her stomach clench.

     “ I only ask that you leave some of my bones intact,” she nearly whimpered, forcing a pathetic little chuckle. Returning to his usual friendly demeanour, he moved his hand from her chin and affectionately stroked her jaw.

     “ Let me make one thing clear: I’d greatly prefer not to fight you at all,” he admitted, his thumb wandering over her lower lip idly. His mind wondered if this was too forward of a gesture for their current relationship, but then again, they were supposed to be involved now.

     “ Likewise,” she murmured plaintively, ducking away from his touch and embrace, giving him a reproachful stare. “ Not at work.”

     He gave her a sheepish grin, his cheeks flushing slightly. “ My apologies! You’re just so beautiful,” he said, softer than she expected his voice to be.

     “ Not at work!” She repeated as she gave him a fond grin, departing the office soon after. He noticed the flush on her cheeks, almost completely obscured by her hero mask.

     Guess it wasn’t too forward after all.

**********

     “ He is going to end you” Fumiko’s voice reverberated in Forget-Me-Not’s brain, reflecting briefly on her response to their impending fight. Now, she stood in an open cityscape, completely unpopulated besides herself and All Might in the city, and Principal Nezu and Recovery Girl spectating from the observation area.

     Hearing the signal to begin, she felt her stomach lurch as she braced herself, waiting. Anxiety tremored her limbs, awaiting whatever onslaught he had planned. Surely he’d confront her directly; it was how both of them fought. And he was definitely the stronger- much stronger- of the two. Unheroically, she’d mentally prepared herself for the brutal defeat she’d inevitably face, instead making it her goal to simply hurt him. Even just a little.

     Such a weakling, she mentally chastised, redirecting her attention to the lack of fighting. Where was he…? A whooshing noise caught her attention, getting louder, rapidly. From above. In a desperate attempt to evade, she dived forward, almost instantly getting caught up in a shockwave that knocked her airborne. Spinning wildly, she smashed into the ground and skidded, eventually twisting and righting herself, squatted down on all fours for balance. Her right side ached dully; adrenaline soon drowned out the pain as her eyes settled on him.

     Standing there, hands on his hips, teeth and eyes gleaming, was All Might, centering the jagged crater that now marred the pavement. She swallowed against the desert of her throat: he hadn’t even tried to hit her yet, but had she not evaded when she did, he’d have crushed her. By jumping. Across the city. She was so fucking outclassed.

     “ I’m surprised you avoided me!” He belted, laughing heartily. Great. So he’d tried to squish her. And he didn’t even think she could avoid that. Anger flared in her stomach. I’m a pro, too! Her mind cried.

     “ Here I come!” He yelled. Great. Now he’s taunting me.

     Imperceptibly fast, he was in front of her, a giant hand grabbing her arm. Shooting a look up at his face, he was already rounding with her, momentum from his swing lifting her off the ground like a pebble. And just like a pebble on the water’s surface, she was going to skip and bounce down the road. Eyes widening, she Quirked him, she prayed, just as his swing accelerated. Bracing herself, she was surprised when he just caught her and set her down on her feet, no throwing involved.

     “ Pardon me, Forget-Me-Not! I don’t know what came over me-“

     He was Quirked; completely forgot what was going on. Now!

     Swinging her right hook, she aimed directly for that weak spot on his left side. It was her only chance…!

     As expected, he easily caught her fist.

     “ How cheeky of you!” He remarked, tightening his grip on her as the brief Quirking faded. She met his gaze squarely, watched as his face faltered…

     Still trapped in his grasp, she twisted herself and arced her left fist at the same spot on his ribs. Again, he caught her in his other hand, forcing her arms apart as she struggled in vain.

     “ You’re definitely giving it a valiant effort!” He bellowed, watching as her pupils dilated, his teasing infuriating her.

     Catching his gaze once more, she Quirked him, harder, making his mind blank, his grip on her hands faltering just slightly. Using his weight to anchor herself, she hopped, drawing her knees to her chest. Swinging on her own arms, she pulled him towards her coiled legs as hard as she could, though he didn’t budge, even in his dazed state. She then lashed out with both heels, her entirely body horizontal as she sought purchase on his torso.

     With a wash of disbelief, her heels jabbed him, with the force of her weight and strength, directly in his scar, making him grit his teeth as he released her and stepped back, his grin never wavering.

     She clumsily hit the ground and rolled away as quickly as she could, staggering to her feet, panting with exertion and exhilaration. Even hitting him as hard as she physically could, he was practically unphased, merely clutching his side.

     “ I didn’t expect you to try to attack so aggressively,” he remarked, the taunting tone to his voice all but dissipating as he dragged the back of his hand over his mouth, wiping away the blood that her kick had induced.

     A twisted combination of pride and guilt washed over her, making her fingers and toes tingle. She had hurt him. And more over, he hadn’t expected her to be able to hurt him. Confidence began to well in her core and she positioned herself to fight again.

     “ Alright. Play Time’s over,” he said, the finality to his voice making her blood run cold.

     Clenching her jaw, she lunged at him, and, to her terror, he did the same. Suddenly, she was off the ground again, dangling by her face. His palm easily spread over it and her mask, clutching her hard. His fingers positioned themselves directly over her eyes, and, completely blinded, she instinctively clawed at his hand, trying to pry the offending extremity off. Panic began to set in and she flailed her legs, trying to kick him again, adrenaline giving her more power than before. Even so, even with every kick, his grip wouldn’t relent. She could barely hear him over the streaming rush of her own blood coursing through her veins. Her mind screamed at her to escape, reminding her unendingly of her impending demise. She may very well have been actually screaming, but already so overwhelmed by the smothering, crushing force of his palm, she had no clue.

     And then it was over. So, so quickly.

     Still clutching her face, he threw her, overhand, just like a baseball. And not gently, either. It was all very fuzzy, but she could remember seeing the street racing by beneath her, the searing pain when her body finally collided with the pavement. The tornado of buildings, the sky, the ground, her limbs, racing past her vision as her body skidded and crashed into the pavement again and again, her body screaming anew as adrenaline fought back, giving her acuity of her pain and no time to process it. At some point, she heard a loud crack resonate by her ears- which she later deduced as her mask shattering and falling away from her face- shortly before she finally came to a halt, laying on the pavement on her side.

     She tasted metallic copper in her mouth and she coughed, something sputtering out from between her lips. Her breathing was quick and laboured, making her chest ache with every breath. She tried to lift herself, but her arms gave in and refused to aid her. Trying her legs, she writhed, attempting to right herself, only succeeding in rolling on her back. Apparently, this was a mistake as she began coughing again, the copper substance filling her mouth and threatening to drown her. She quickly rolled over on the opposite side and spat out the offending liquid, finally ceasing her struggle when her eyes settled on the large object approaching her: blue, red, white, yellow.

     All Might. Here to finish her off.

     He was talking to her, but her ears weren’t working right. He sounded so muffled and echo-y, like he was yelling through a pillow down a tunnel.

     Her eyes fell closed. So sleepy…

**********

     “ … punctured her lung!” An elderly voice cried out in anger.

     “ I-I didn’t mean to-“ came a feeble response, cut off by the elderly voice.

     “ Well you did! Poor thing was practically shattered to pieces.”

     “ Hnnnn…” Hakaori groaned. Her head pulsated and her eyes ached. She tried to lift her left arm but found it restrained, bound by a sling and cast. Trying her other arm, it complied, rubbing her face and eyes as she came back into consciousness.

     Everything hurt. She tried to sit up, but her torso protested and set searing tendrils of pain into her brain. Hissing sharply, she laid herself still, instead turning her head to see the source of the voices. Even her neck protested the action, but she still found herself able to move it, looking at Recovery Girl and Toshinori, who both regarded her with mixed relief and worry.

     “ Oh, deary, how are you feeling?” The older lady cooed, stepping closer to examine Hakaori’s face.

     “ Like… like scrambled eggs,” the injured woman replied, making the healing heroine frown with worry. It definitely wasn’t a normal response.

     “ Do you remember what happened?”

     “ I… um… I had to fight All Might… and I kicked him… and then he threw me by my face, I think… and then there was a crack and my arms didn’t work and I was choking on something,” she explained, trying to be coherent and failing miserably as her words slurred together.

     “ There, you see?” Recovery Girl scolded, turning to face Toshinori, whom had averted his gaze.

     “ Hey… don’t be too mad at him. He’s just really strong and I’m really squishy,” Hakaori offered, trying to rationalize in her inebriated state of mind. Recovery Girl looked at her and frowned again.

     “ That throw gave you a concussion, shattered your arm, and broke almost all your ribs, one of which punctured your lung,” Recovery Girl explained, giving Hakaori a stern gaze. “ You had to go for emergency surgery for your lung and rib repair. I healed what I could, but you’re too beat up for my healing to be of much use.”

     Slowly coming out of the anesthetic fog, Hakaori processed what she’d been told.

     “ Pshhhhh, it’s fine,” Hakaori murmured, waving her uninjured arm dismissively. “ I’m not dead!” She exclaimed as she thrust the same hand into the air; a fist of triumph. She then let that hand fall to her side.

     “ Oh dear…” the elderly lady muttered as she meandered out of the room, shooting Toshinori another disapproving glare as she went.

     Shifting awkwardly, Toshinori gave Hakaori some sidelong glances before finally mustering the will to speak.

     “ Is… is it alright if I sit next to you?” He asked sheepishly, keeping his voice low. A small nod had him pull his chair over to her bedside.

     “ Why did you throw me so hard, Toshi-kun? You broke me,” Hakaori whined plaintively, looking at Toshinori as best as she could.

     “ I didn’t- I actively tried not to throw you hard,” he offered, cringing at how weak his answer sounded.

     “ Guess you’re just that super strong. You’re kind of scary,” she murmured, letting her eyes flutter closed. His eyes flitted to her face, his chest squeezing at the remark. Scary…?

     “ Did it hurt…?” She asked, lazily opening her eyes once more to look at him. He looked at her curiously, snapping out of his brief daze.

     “ Did what hurt?”

     When I kicked your side,” she elaborated, giving him an apologetic smile. “ It was all I could think of… I feel bad… because I tried to exploit a weakness that you shared with me…” she whispered, her eyes falling downcast as guilt welled up in her chest. “ I even felt proud when I saw you wipe blood from your mouth. I thought ‘wow, I hurt All Might! The number one hero!’ I-I got carried away. I’m sorry,” she murmured. She frowned deeply when he scoffed.

     “ You got carried away? I feared the worst when you came to a halt and didn’t get up right away. Then you rolled over and coughed up blood…” he trailed off, his insides twisting with guilt at the memory.

     “ It’s okay. I forgive you,” she said, her voice gaining a bit of strength. Her response was so simple, so genuine. She extended her hand to him but couldn’t quite reach. Making a soft noise of frustration, he leaned closer, and she smiled broadly when she could cup his hollow cheek, rubbing her thumb along the bone there. He lifted his own hand and squeezed hers gently, noticing and truly appreciating how small and fragile the little bones felt in his much larger hand. Pulling it from his cheek to his lips to kiss the delicate digits, he regarded her warm expression, the soft curve of her smiling lips, her shimmering eyes, even the bruising left by her mask.

     “ Thank you… and I’m sorry,” he whispered, gently lowering their intertwined hands.

     “ Hm… I will forgive you, but just this once,” she teased, grinning widely, waiting until realization dawned on him. He soon grinned, too, remembering the text with a similar sentiment that he’d sent to her.

     Hesitating, he dropped their eye contact as he toyed with something in his mind. Seemingly decided, he stood and leaned over her, regarding her curious eyes.

     “ May I…?” He requested, still gripping her hand. He felt heat rise to his cheeks when she laughed so, so softly.

     “ You don’t need to ask every time,” she breathed, squeezing his hand reassuringly.

     He chuckled lowly before gently pressing his lips to hers, sighing deeply when she returned his kiss. He broke away tentatively, staring deep into her eyes.

     “ I won’t hurt you ever again.”

Chapter Text

     Spending just over a day in the hospital, Hakaori was discharged with instruction to take it easy and absolutely refrain from hero work. It annoyed her, but she knew she couldn’t help anyone if she didn’t help herself first.

     Stepping through the door, she was greeted by an “ oh shit!” from Fumiko. The younger woman stared at her injured sister with huge eyes.

     “ Jesus!” Fumiko exclaimed, eyeing the bruising around her sister’s eyes, the cast on her arm, the bandages only just barely visible beneath Hakaori’s shirt. “ Is that from your fight!?!”

     “ Uh huh,” Hakaori droned miserably, wincing a bit as she tried to set down her bag. Unsurprisingly, Fumiko just watched as the injured woman attempted to remove her shoes- and failed.

     “ What’d he do? Punch you into oblivion?” She asked, wandering over to aid Hakaori after she was given the most pleading of expressions. The younger sister popped off both shoes, looking at her sister expectantly.

     “ Hardly. He literally just grabbed me by my face,” she held her palm out in front of her own visage for emphasis, “ and threw me down the street. I broke my arm, several of my ribs, and had a concussion. And to top it all off, my mask broke, so I’m going to need to get it replaced.”

     “ Shit,” Fumiko breathed, staring at her sister with genuine disbelief. “ Are you still dating or was that sort of a deal breaker?”

     “ Oh, well, he didn’t mean to. He felt really bad, too, so I forgave him. It’s really not that bad- just I can’t move too much. Toshi-kun offered to come help take care of me while I heal…” Hakaori trailed off, eyeing her sister.

     “ What? You think I’m gonna take care of you? Dream on. You’re the one who did this to yourself!” Fumiko scoffed, walking back over to her previous seat on the sofa. Hakaori rolled her eye at the response.

     “ I just wanted to make sure that, if he came over more often, you’d be okay with it. Sor-ry for trying to consider your feelings,” the elder sibling muttered, taking a seat next to her sister; a great struggle that made Fumiko cackle.

     “ C’moooon, it can’t hurt that much,” the teenager jeered, grinning widely. “ As for him coming over… I don’t really care, but you shouldn’t lead him on. He likes you, you know,” she warned, looking at her sister.

     “ I know he does. But we’ve sorted it out, so don’t worry about it,” Hakaori dismissed, noting Fumiko’s uneasy stare.

     “ If you say so…” she said warily, turning her attention to a game console as she sifted for a game to play.

******

     “ Toshi-kun, this really isn’t necessary…” Hakaori murmured, watching as Toshinori bustled back and forth through the kitchen, gathering up the materials needed to make dinner. He laid out the ingredients on the counter in front of them.

     “ Maybe not, but you’re still injured and need to let yourself rest,” he chastised, noticing the incredulous stare she gave him.

     “ Like you’re one to talk,” she huffed. He disregarded the remark, opening up a jar of tomato sauce and dumping it into a pot on the stove. She reflexively went to start cutting the vegetables, but the cast on her arm reminded her that cutting them with one hand would be futile. She sighed and stepped back, letting him take full command of the kitchen, much to her reluctance.

     “ Surely you have other matters to attend to,” she protested weakly, watching uselessly as he diced the tomatoes, peppers, and mushrooms.

     “ I’m pretty well out of hero time today, so there’s not really anything else for me to do,” he countered, dumping the diced vegetables into a bowl. He cast a glance at the onion and steeled himself for the eye-watering to come as he grabbed it, beginning to chop it up.

     “ I mean… I guess… if you’re sure,” she murmured, watching the way he cut and treated the vegetables. He was very deliberate and careful in his movements, but still quick and efficient. “ Do you like cooking, Toshi-kun?”

     “ Er, I suppose. I like cooking for others more, though. It’s not something I get to do very often,” he explained, giving her a small smile as his cheeks dusted with pink. She returned his smile as he dumped the onion into the bowl with the other vegetables, promptly washing his hands so he didn’t make the mistake of rubbing his eyes with onion-juiced fingers.

     Stepping next to him, she took the bowl of vegetables and dumped it into the pot of sauce, only to huff in annoyance when she couldn’t properly brace the handle and stir in her single-handed state. Toshinori snickered and held the handle for her, enabling her to stir the contents.

     “ I could manage by myself…” she muttered, chuckling at just how feeble her voice sounded. She looked up at him and smiled sweetly instead. “ Thank you for coming over to help me.”

     “ It’s the least I can do, since it’s my fault,” was his answer, making her scoff.

     “ My injuries really aren’t that bad. Recovery Girl told me she’s going to heal them gradually, anyway,” Hakaori retorted, walking over to the fridge and awkwardly retrieving some thawed hamburger. He grabbed a frying pan and turned on another element, taking the meat from Hakaori when she walked over.

     “ Maybe not, but I still didn’t keep tight enough control over my strength,” he scolded himself.

     “ I would’ve been angry if you held back.” This response garnered an inquisitive stare from him.

     “ Why?” He asked, placing the meat in the frying pan and washing his hands in the sink again.

     “ I don’t want you to go easy on me just because you don’t want to hurt me or because you have feelings for me. I might not be super strong, but I am still a pro, too. Besides… there will always be those who’re stronger than me, so I need to fight without hesitation, even in those unwinnable situations.”

     Toshinori nodded slowly, retrieving a spatula to prod and shift the hamburger with. “ I understand. But it still doesn’t alleviate my guilt,” he joked, grinning at her. “ So, I need to spend time with you and help you to free my conscience.”

     She snorted, appreciating his cheesiness. “ You don’t need any special reason to spend time with me,” she said, giving him another smile. He returned it sheepishly.

     “ It’s… been a while since I’ve been involved with anyone. I’m not really sure of the proper etiquette,” the thin man admitted, his cheeks flushing a slight pink.

     “ Don’t think about it so much,” she giggled, stepping closer just to be near him. She wanted to wrap her arm around his waist, but simply the thought of it made her ribs ache preemptively, so she settled with gently laying her head against his shoulder. He turned his gaze to hers, feeling his heart swell and clench in his chest.

     Her eyes were so green, pupils slightly dilated, regarding him with so much affection. He wanted to snatch her up and never let go, but he thought better of it, seeing as he’s supposed to be an adult and the number one hero. And, well, she was hurt, too. He peeled his eyes away, blushing deeper as he focused on the sizzling meat. Apparently, he’d kept himself lonely for too long, seeing as he was practically coming apart at the seams from just being around her.

     “ That looks pretty good,” she confirmed, looking at the now-fried hamburger.

     Toshinori snapped out of it, nodding curtly and awkwardly as he dumped the burger into the pot of sauce. Hakaori collected another pot and then a package of spaghetti noodles. She set the pot in the sink and filled it with water, scoffing when she couldn’t lift the cooking utensil back out, instead turning to look pleadingly at the blond man. Snickering, he obliged by lifting the pot out of the sink and onto the stovetop.

     “ I’m really not enjoying this one-armed thing,” the woman muttered, pouting playfully. She stole a glance up at the tall man, her pout breaking to a bashful grin when she saw the bemused expression he wore.

     “ Apologies,” he replied, his voice light and jovial, but not quite able to hide the genuineness of the sentiment. She half scoffed, half snorted.

     “ Theeeeen… make it up to me,” she whispered, stepping close to him again, her eyes imploring him silently. The intensity of her gaze made his cheeks grow hot and he turned to face her fully, forgetting the pot of water as he tenderly laid a hand on her hip. She didn’t wince or step away, so he lifted his free hand to her face, cupping it easily as she tipped her head into his palm. He felt his body grow tense, involuntarily, as he thought to ask for a kiss, but, remembering her previous statement, he slowly leaned in, being greeted with her lips pressing into his. They kissed tentatively and chastely at first, though that didn’t appear to be enough to satisfy her as she pressed into his mouth a bit harder, deepening their kiss. He reciprocated, a familiar and old heat creeping and spreading from his core to his limbs, only to be cut short when the kitchen door opened and she promptly pulled away from him. Fumiko’s gaze flickered between them before finally settling on Hakaori with a scrutinizing glare.

     “ Ah, Fumi-chan! Dinner is almost ready,” the elder sibling chirped, giving her sister a wide smile. Fumiko just nodded slowly, narrowing her eyes at Hakaori as she got herself a drink. Hesitating at the door for a moment, the little sister’s lips parted like she was going to speak, before thinking against it and leaving the kitchen. Hakaori sighed enough to make herself wince.

     “ Is everything alright?” Toshinori fumbled awkwardly, giving Hakaori an uncertain expression as she scratched her cheek nervously.

     “ Er, it will be. Just, she saw me kiss you as All Might the other night, and now she probably has the wrong idea about myself and ‘Toshinori’,” she said, giving a small, nonchalant shrug as she grabbed the package of spaghetti and awkwardly blundered to open it. Toshinori almost went to help her, but she managed on her own, divvying out three portions of pasta and dropping them into the pot. He watched as she stirred the contents until the pasta was completely submerged in the boiling water, worry beginning to churn his non-existent stomach.

     “ So, she thinks you might be cheating?” He asked, turning his attention from the pot to her. She was now watching the noodles boil instead.

     “ Ohhhhh, probably. She scolded me earlier for accepting your offer to help me while I recover, since you might perceive it as something more and I’ll end up leading you on. I insisted that I had the situation under control, but now that she saw that, I’m probably never going to hear the end of it,” Hakaori groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose.

     Toshinori considered this- it really wouldn’t look good for Hakaori to be cheating on All Might and leading Toshinori on, though that wasn’t the reality of things. And he didn’t want to tell Fumiko the truth; she was a nice girl, but didn’t strike him as the type to keep secrets very well. He looked up at Hakaori, who was now smiling about something.

     “ Well… do you have any ideas?” She asked through her smile. He looked at her perplexedly. She seemed inappropriately calm, given the situation.

     “ Not really. Did you have something in mind?” He urged hesitantly.

     “ All I can come up with is an open relationship,” she admitted, her cheeks lighting up as her smile widened. He realized now that it was a nervous smile- there was no way that Fumiko would believe something like that, true or not.

     “ Should we tell her the truth?” He suggested. Hakaori knew her sister better than he did; she could make a more informed decision on what’s safe to tell her. The uncertain tone to her body language didn’t do much to reassure him.

     “ Well… it’s your secret, but she also hasn’t told anyone about All Might’s visit here… though I’m still hesitant about telling her something so important. I think we should take it in stride for now and see what happens. If she’s really that upset over it, I’ll let you know. That is, if she doesn’t make it crystal clear first,” the woman concluded, gaining a curt nod from Toshinori as she stirred the spaghetti to keep the noodles from sticking together.

     After a few minutes of lighter small talk, the meal was complete and Hakaori was awkwardly scooping the pasta and sauce onto separate plates for her and her sister. Toshinori quickly stepped in when she went to prepare a plate for him as well, giving her a wide smile.

     “ I can serve myself. Just focus on you and Fumiko,” he assured her, taking the scoop from the one-armed woman.

     She gave him a gracious smile in response and brought the first plate out to Fumiko, returning to the kitchen for her own plate and two forks. This time, Toshinori followed her back in to the living room. There was a dining table, but neither sister opted to use it, instead preferring to eat in front of the T.V. He followed suit, seating himself next to Hakaori on the sofa. Fumiko apparently preferred the floor, seeing as a game controller was laying next to her, temporarily discarded while she ate her dinner.

     Fumiko turned and looked at the thin man, her eyes then falling to the contents of his plate, crinkling her nose at the sparse amount of food. He looked at her curiously, slowly taking a bite as she stared for an uncomfortable amount of time.

     “ You need to eat more! That’s why you’re so skinny, y’know,” the teenager remarked, referring to the small portion on his dish. His cheeks turned pink and Fumiko’s observation was rewarded with a harsh nudge in her back from Hakaori’s foot.

     “ Fumiko! Mind your own business!” The elder sister scolded, her tone far more abrasive than in prior confrontations. She gave the man an apologetic smile and went to voice it, but he shrugged it off with a tight smile of his own.

     “ I was just saying…” Fumiko muttered, stuffing some spaghetti into her mouth.

******

     Dinner progressed better from there on, ending with Fumiko being voluntold to do the dishes and leaving Hakaori and Toshinori in the living room to relax.

     “ Sorry for what she says. She doesn’t think before she speaks,” Hakaori murmured, rubbing the back of her head and blushing with embarrassment.

     “ It’s alright. She’s just looking out for me,” he answered with a chuckle, earning another one of her lovely smiles in response.

     “ You’re too sweet,” she said, scooting closer and attempting to lay her head on his shoulder, quickly abandoning the idea when her ribs protested, instead settling for mere close proximity.

     “ Well, I probably should try to make good with your family members,” he teased, making her giggle softly. He couldn’t help but smile as well, looking down at the floor idly as a thought crossed his mind. “ Have you heard back from Principal Nezu?”

     “ Ah- y-yes. I’m going to meet with him tomorrow to discuss my employment,” she replied, her voice betraying her nervousness. He reached over and gently squeezed her hand, blushing when his mind caught up with his action. She didn’t seem to mind, so he didn’t remove his hand.

     “ You’ll be alright,” he reaffirmed, giving her hand another squeeze.

     “ Thanks. I don’t usually doubt my abilities, but after how our battle went, I’m not feeling so confident,” she admitted, squeezing his hand in return.

     “ With all due respect, I’m certain he wouldn’t pair us to fight just for the sake of it. He definitely would’ve considered any skill differences and he wouldn’t expect you to win in a head-on confrontation,” he explained, pressing his mouth shut when he noticed the incredulous side-eye he was getting.

     “ … I hope you’re right. I know better than anyone that I could never defeat you,” she sighed. He wasn’t sure if her ego was bruised or if she was just frustrated with herself, or maybe some mixture of both.

     “ You did the best you could, given the circumstances,” he assured, and she gave a tense smirk.

     “ I’m just glad you’re on the right side of the law,” Hakaori concluded, swallowing her pride and giving him a genuine grin. He returned it, relief washing over him as she hadn’t taken offense to his remark.

     Fumiko soon remerged from her dishwashing, eyeing the closeness of the two adults and the intertwined hands that quickly detangled from one another. It was just for a second, but the younger woman’s gaze caught her sister’s and she Quirked her.

     “ I hope she didn’t notice us holding hands-“ Hakaori blurted, clamping a hand over her mouth as her eyes widened with surprise. “ Fumiko!” She cried, restraining herself from giving the girl a disapproving glare, lest she get Quirked again.

     “ I knew it! You’re so trashy!” The teenager exclaimed, boring her eyes into her sister, whom only looked away. Fumiko’s eyes flitted to Toshinori, noticing that he was looking directly at her. She chose not to Quirk him.

     “ Don’t say that about your sister. You’re concerned because she’s seeing All Might, right?” He prodded, his bluntness taking her aback briefly. She recovered quickly, her intense look now shifted to him.

     “ Wait- you knew about that!? That’s even worse!” The young woman gasped, staring at Toshinori with disbelief. She watched as the adults exchanged awkward glances, with Hakaori giving him an unsure shrug. He seemed to draw inside himself for a moment, returning his eyes to Fumiko’s shortly after.

     “ I do know. And I assure you, we have everything under control,” he said, imbuing as much confidence as he could into his statement. Unsurprisingly, Fumiko hardly looked convinced.

     “ Oh, so you’re both just trashy. Makes more sense now,” she scoffed facetiously. Turning her attention to her sister again, her voice became uncharacteristically sharp and bitter as she spoke. “ Now I see why you’re always single, Hakaori! You two deserve each other,” she spat and rounded down the hall, towards her room.

     With a sigh, Toshinori rose to his feet, having made up his mind. He still had a small bit of hero time left- he could at least keep from sullying Fumiko’s opinion of her sister. In a flash, his body shifted, muscles bulging, easily filling out his oversized clothes. Catching Hakaori’s concerned stare, he turned away and stepped into the threshold of the hallway, beaming his usual, flawless, heroic grin.

     “ Fumi-chan!” He boomed in his guttural, jovial resonance.

     Immediately recognizing the voice, the girl whirled around on her heels, greeting the sight of All Might with saucer plates for eyes.

     “ W-what the-!? When did-!? How did you get here!?” She babbled, still staring with her star struck gaze. He just guffawed at her reaction.

     “ Why, I’ve been here the whole time!” He bellowed, grinning at the young woman. A look of confusion flitted across her face as she processed his statement, obviously not understanding.

     “ You… were? But…” she trailed off, finding herself at a loss for words for once.

     “ Well, I think that’s enough,” he said as a rush of steam escaped his body, temporarily blocking her view of him. His voice wavered in this time, to something familiar- something less boisterous, more frail…

     “ T-Toshinori!?” She breathed, staring at the much smaller form that now stood at the end of the hall. Toshinori raised a hand to his mouth as he coughed.

     “ Yes. I am All Might,” he stated, regarding the girl intently. She continued to stare until she regained her bearings, bringing herself back to the present.

     “ B-But how!? Is that your Quirk?” She stammered.

     “ … Right. But obviously no one knows about this, so I’m trusting you to keep it a secret. Can you do that for me?” He requested, feeling his tension relent when she nodded quickly.

     “ Of course! ACK-“ She choked, her eyes somehow widening further as realization dawned on her. “ I’m so sorry I called you trashy! I didn’t mean it!” She cried, bowing deeply. He couldn’t help but chuckle.

     “ It’s quite alright. But you should have more faith in your sister. She knows the truth as well,” he added, noting the slightly guilty expression Fumiko now wore.

     “ I’ll apologize to her…” the girl muttered, her voice distinctly less apologetic than her expression. Her apparent insincerity troubled Toshinori, but he chose to trust her.

     “ That’s good to hear. She does her best for you,” he mentioned, watching as she gave a silent nod and quickly disappeared into her room. The reaction troubled him further, though he realized that it wasn’t his place to push it any more, if at all. Returning to the living room, he was greeted with the still-concerned eyes of Hakaori. He mustered a smile, though its confidence was debatable.

     “ You really didn’t have to do that…” she whispered, her eyes trailing him as he walked over and seated himself next to her once again. He shook his head as he met her gaze.

     “ I don’t think she’ll tell anyone. Besides…” he paused, dropping his eyes for a moment before looking back up at her again, “ I don’t want her thinking badly of you because of me.”

     “ You worry too much,” she scoffed, smiling tightly. “ She’s always annoyed about something- I’ve lived with her for a while now. But… thank you all the same,” she added, her smile softening.

     “ Of course,” he replied. He opened his mouth to speak again but hesitated, reconsidering the next statement before voicing it. Her curious expression was just enough to spur him on. “ I really want this to work,” he admitted, feeling his cheeks flush once more. Was that too heavy? Too intense? Probably. The thought made him blush even harder.

     “ Me too,” she said simply, raising her free hand to tenderly stroke his cheek. “ All couples start somewhere.”