Sorry for the repost! I will try to post on Sundays/Mondays instead. This would not happen again!
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Disclaimer: I do not own Boku no Hero Academia.
People often say Yume had the stronger Quirk between the two sisters.
Yume was not oblivious to the whispers behind her back—but she also never experienced it as often as Ayame. Yume thought their opinions were ridiculous; they shouldn't judge without witnessing Ayame's power first.
But no one had saw Ayame's Quirk manifest like Yume did. That scene had burned deep into Yume's mind. The older sister doesn't know if Ayame remembers but, Yume definitely does.
Ten year old Yume had to watch over six year old Ayame when their parents left the house to go to the hospital. Shiko had been in pain all day, causing Hiroshi to constantly worry over his wife. They trusted their eldest child to watch over the house and her sister; Yume was more responsible than kids twice her age.
And so, they left. It was late afternoon; the summer warmed their house and causing Ayame to feel sleepy. Somehow, young Yume had gotten the idea in her mind to watch a movie. It would have been easier for the time to fly by and Ayame did not mind the soft background noise as she slept on the couch. Yume flipped the television to a random channel and watched the time go by.
It may have been a mistake on her part to not carefully review the movie before leaving it on. Yume had been intrigued by the movie and the fast paced scenes, violet eyes wide on the thriller on the screen. There were monsters and gore on the television, something her parents had deeply forbid her to watch before, but no one was home to turn the TV off for her.
Yume was so absorbed in watching the horror that she hadn't realized Ayame stirred awake partway. The child had kept silent when she woken up, wide lilac eyes also watching the screen and—let out a small shriek when an especially gory scene played.
That was enough for Yume to snap back to reality. She quickly turned off the television and hugged Ayame, promising the girl it was not real and—to not tell their parents about the movie. It took a bit of coaxing and reassurance from the ten year old to convince her sister everything was alright and after another hour, when their parents returned, Ayame returned back to normal.
Yume brushed it off then and both sisters were excited for the news of having a baby sibling soon.
That night, Yume woke up to Ayame climbing into her bed. The younger girl admitted to being scared of the dark, teary lilac eyes peering at her sister to let her in. Yume felt the guilt twist in her heart again and allowed Ayame under the covers, held her sister close as they both fell asleep.
It would have been fine, if it ended there.
But it didn't.
Ayame was twisting nervously in her sleep, eyebrows furrowed together as dark shadows and sharp teeth were chasing her in her dreams. Neither children realized that a shadowy figure began to take form, dark trails intertwining together to create a giant monster. Ayame stirred awake, wide eyes snapping open to see—the monster from her dreams standing right by the bed.
She screamed.
Yume woke up immediately and saw the giant monster. She quickly scooped up Ayame and ran—not realizing that the smoky trails had lingered around her. Yume screamed for her parents and Ayame cried in her arms as Yume ran away.
The monster chased after Yume, crashing through the door of the room and into the wall, leaving a deep dent on the white wall. Shiko immediately ran to them, her eyes glowed red to put the monster to sleep but—it had no effect on the creature. She was stunned; not even animals could escape her Quirk.
Hiroshi turned on the lights and called for his children, eyes lingering on the black smoke surrounding Ayame. It was the same smoke from the monster. He called for his wife and she turned towards her youngest daughter, eyes widening at the realization settling in.
Shiko grabbed Ayame, forced her eyes to focus on her, and activated her Quirk. Ayame slumped down unconscious and Shiko held her close, watching the smoky creature disappearing from their sights. Yume realized—that power had come from Ayame.
I knew, since the beginning, Yume watched Ayame walk up to the first place podium, Ayame is strong…in the future…she will be stronger than me…
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"No!" Ayame screamed, "I don't want to use my Quirk!"
Shiko and Yume smiled helplessly at the child. It had been the day after Ayame's power manifested. After she had woken up from Shiko's Quirk, their family had tried to explain to the young child that it was her power—but they had no idea how it came to play.
"It-it's scary!" Ayame cried, "Why don't I have okaa-san's power instead?!"
Hiroshi's eyes softened for his child and scooped her up, allowing Ayame to cry into his shoulder while he motioned for the girls to rest. He will take it from here.
"But, Aya," her father comforted softly, "Your powers look just like mine."
Ayame hiccupped and rubbed her teary eyes on his shoulder, mumbling in a small voice, "No, they don't."
"Hmm…true… I think there's more to yours than mine," Hiroshi hummed and walked over to a painting.
It was a picture he had painted himself, a family of nekomatas dancing on the portrait. He adjusted his hold on Ayame with one hand and the other hand reached out to the painting. Ayame peeked from his shoulder to watch. She had seen her father's abilities hundreds of times already; it was what he would do to entertain and ease the children.
A little cat jumped from the painting and landed on Hiroshi's hand. Ayame startled; she remembered the monster from last night had almost the same inky patterns. But, Hiroshi's creatures were more inky and white while Ayame's summons were smoky and opaque.
"But, since you are my daughter, then your powers goes beyond the monster from last night. You can also make cute little cats like your otou-san," Hiroshi said gently.
The nekomata danced to Hiroshi's tune, hopping up his arm and landed on his other shoulder. Ayame flinched and buried her head into her father again but one, wide lilac eye was peering at the cat.
"Do you want to try, Aya?" Hiroshi coaxed.
Ayame froze and shook her head. It was still too soon.
.
Yume returned home in a timely manner, violet eyes looking around the empty house but found no signs of her parents. She set her backpack aside on the living room couch and looked outside, seeing a little figure sitting down on the wooden porch. Yume went out quietly and took a seat next to the huddled Ayame. It has been a week already.
"I'm sorry, Aya, it was my fault," Yume apologized softly. If she hadn't watched that movie—if she had changed the channel sooner… Ayame wouldn't be in this state.
Ayame shook her head lightly.
"I'm scared, onee-chan," Ayame mumbled, "W-what if I make that monster again?"
Yume's eyes softened. She leaned closer to Ayame, patting the light brown hair of hers and looked to their garden. Around their flower patch was an assortment of butterflies fluttering around.
"Aya," Yume began, "You don't know the full extent of your Quirk yet. Why don't we test it out?"
"No!" Ayame immediately shook her head.
"But, Ayame," Yume was serious, "I promise nothing bad will happen. As your older sister, I will protect you—remember?"
The young girl looked at her sister with teary eyes. That was right. Before, Yume had been the one to carry Ayame out of the room when the giant monster appeared.
"B-but…I-I don't know how," Ayame admitted.
"Then, let's try with this," Yume reached out a hand. Like magic, a butterfly landed on her dainty finger. Ayame's eyes widen in shock while Yume turned at her with a smile. "Aren't they pretty, Aya? But it's a little lonely…why don't you make a friend for it?
Ayame stared at the butterfly with large eyes. She took in the bright orange and yellow patterns of the insect, black edges framing the wings and Ayame formed an image in her head. She reached one hand out to the butterfly as black smoke emitted from her fingers. The butterfly flew away yet behind it was an exact replica chasing after it.
Both children watched with wide eyes as the two butterflies danced with each other. One was lively and bright, orange wings dancing in the light while the second was ghostly yet—beautiful.
You had grown up so much since then, Aya, Yume thought silently, a small smile appeared on her lips as she focused on the brunette below.
You deserved the win.
She deserves to be recognized.
"Hey—are you serious—that girl—won?!"
"That Takarada boy's Quirk was really strong!"
"How did she beat last year's winner?!"
"Did anyone hear what they said? It looked so weird with how they stopped fighting at times."
"That's—LullaCry's sister right? They're a spitting image of each other!"
"I still like LullaCry more."
"LullaCry's Quirk is better!"
Yume clenched her fist and her right hand reached up to her sunglasses. How dare they talk about the winner—about her sister like that?!
"Ayame-senpai is not LullaCry!"
Everyone startled at the sudden shout, eyes drifting down to where Class 1-A were seated. A majority of the students were glaring upwards at the irresponsible adults who just spoken, Midoriya clenching the railing tightly after his outburst.
"Weren't you just watching?!" Kirishima shouted.
"Ayame-senpai beat his Crystal Quirk!" Kaminari added.
"She's strong! She's really strong!" The girls yelled back.
Yume lowered her hand, violet eyes widening behind the dark sunglasses at the class below. Were these the 1-A kids Ayame kept talking about? It wasn't just Ayame praising the first-years—but they were equally protecting her too.
On stage, Ume presented the third place medals to Yuu and his classmate, both accepting the award politely. She gave a few words of congratulations, lips pulling up into a smile before heading towards Noeru.
Noeru had a blank look on his face, his uniform still torn and ripped from the recent fight. Ume smiled lightly and gave the 2nd place medal to the stiff boy.
"You were great, Takarada-san," Ume comforted, "If you need a teacher to speak with your father, I am willing to assist you."
"No, thank you, sensei," he refused impassively, "It's best if I handled him."
"Then, allow me to say this, too," Ume said softly, "No matter what, you are a hero already. Despite what you or anyone else thinks, you're strong and compassionate, too. Good work, Takarada-san."
Noeru blinked at his teacher and Ume moved on to Ayame next. The brunette was still looking dazed out of her mind, staring at the gold medal before her with wide eyes. She couldn't believe this was real—had she really—won the tournament?!
"Sasaki-san," Ume called out to her.
Ayame blinked, long strands of brunette hair moved as she turned her head to her teacher. It was the first day back to school as second-years; Ayame didn't get in trouble already, did she?!
"Yes, sensei?" Ayame tilted her head.
"I know this is sudden but U.A. started a new program recently. I had recommended you to be a teacher's assistant for Aizawa-sensei in Class 1-A," Ume smiled.
Ayame gaped, sweating at the sudden spur of information and nervously laughed. "N-no way, right? I'm sorry, but can you choose someone else?"
"I'm afraid not," Ume smiled; Ayame never had a choice in the beginning.
"W-what would I be even doing?! And why me—?"
"It would just be reviewing the course with the first years and being an assistant to Aizawa-sensei."
"Am I failing?!" Ayame gasped, her uncle didn't mention anything like this! "I-is this another way of telling me—I'm being held back a year?!"
Ume resisted the urge to laugh. Was it…really so surprising to her?
"Rest assured, you're not. It would be like a year-long intern experience," Ume attempted to console.
She knew of the girl's dilemma. Ayame wasn't trying as hard as she should. She was being held back by the comparison between her and Yume. Ume had to admit, Yume was a wonderful student in U.A. but…Ayame could do just as well if she tried. She hoped this extra experience will help Ayame be more confident in herself.
Ayame sighed in defeat. "Okay, when do I start?"
"Sasaki Ayame," Ume said with a wide grin, "It looks like you have finally found your way. I'm proud of you."
"I-is it—really okay—for me to win?" Ayame asked nervously, her fingers fidgeting with each other as she glanced at Noeru, "A-are you sure—I won?"
"Don't be an idiot," Noeru scowled from her right, "Embrace the pain from your body and accept it."
Ayame startled at her bloody knuckles, whimpering in pain from all the cuts and bruises all over her body. Yuu chuckled softly to her left while Noeru expected her reaction from the right. Ayame lowered her head as Ume put the medal around her neck, one hand clutching the gold medal over her thumping heart.
"That concludes the second-year's Sports Festival! The winner is Sasaki Ayame with an outstanding comeback! This proves that anyone and everyone can improve. Do not be discouraged if you did not make it up here! Your goal is to keep improving yourself!" Ume turned to the rest of the second-years to announce.
Ayame stared dazedly at the medal around her neck as the festivities ended. Her friends had come up to congratulate her and she pulled Hotaru into a hug, thanking her friend for reminding her the importance of the tournament.
Her kouhais from 1-A were waving down and Ayame looked up, grinning to see them cheer for her and waved back. She saw Todoroki was still with them; his eyes were still focused on her. Ayame's grin softened into a smile and she brought one fist up.
Did you see?
Todoroki let out a small exhale from his nose. It was miniscule and barely noticeable—but a small smile had emerged on his lips as he stared at the brunette. He also raised one fist in return, watching her face light up in excitement.
I saw.
Off in the distance, the shining hair of Takarada caught Ayame's attention. She looked up in the VIP booths, her fist lowering in contemplation. Noeru was walking away with Yuu, not bothering to watch his father leave and Ayame quickly looked between them.
"Hotaru-chan," the short girl looked at her friend, seeing a serious expression on her face as Ayame subtly pointed up in the stands. "I'm sorry to ask this again but—can you teleport me there?"
Hotaru followed her fingers and nodded her head. Ayame grabbed her hand and Hotaru activated her Quirk, both disappearing in a neon light.
They reappeared within the crowd and Ayame thanked Hotaru hastily before chasing the patriarch's back. Hotaru looked confused yet Ayame did not explain, brunette hair flying behind her while the passing civilians were gasping in shock.
"Takarada-ojisan!"
Tatsuo paused, eyebrows creasing at being called 'uncle' and turned around to see the winner. Ayame was gasping for breath again and straightened her back, looking at him with the same unwavering gaze.
"You said—I would get a prize if I win."
How shameless; she's asking for a reward now? Wasn't she the one to hastily refuse it? Who was the one that rebuked him earlier—calling him an 'overbearing father'?
"I suppose," he returned back to his blank face; he's not interested in being pleasant with her anymore.
"Then—! Keep Takarada Noeru in U.A.!" Ayame shouted, pausing to clarify her demands, "For his remaining years in U.A.! Until he becomes a hero! That's what I want!"
Tatsuo was stunned, watching the brunette sigh in relief to have said her peace and made to turn around.
"You have to keep the promise, oji-san!"
Ayame left with Hotaru. The short girl was even—more stunned by Ayame's outburst yet Ayame was completely fine. A bright grin was on her face when Hotaru teleported them away.
Behind, Takarada Tatsuo stared at the spot Ayame disappeared from. He lifted one hand up to his temple, rubbing the place in a circular motion yet—there was no headache. Instead, he laughed loudly, shaking his head in disbelief.
"What a troublesome girl."
"Well, well, well, Ayame."
Ayame shivered, feeling an ominous presence behind her back as soon as she reappeared with Hotaru. She shakily turned around; gulping at the sight of her mummified uncle and—could practically feel the glare Aizawa gave her. However, her lilac eyes widen in shock by the people he was with.
Hiroshi was holding Shiko with one hand while Shiko was holding a cane with her other hand, a dark pair of sunglasses over her eyes yet a smile was on her lips. Suzume fidgeted nervously around before she broke away from Yume's hand, running towards Ayame's direction and jumping into her arms.
"Aya-neechan!"
Ayame gaped as Yume took off her straw hat and sunglasses, violet eyes smiling her way. In fact, all of her family members were smiling—or grinning at her. Even Aizawa, although was looking at her sharply, had a smile on his face.
"Y-you're all—?!" Ayame didn't know what to say.
Shiko walked forward, leaving Hiroshi's grasp as she arrived in front of her daughter. Through her blurred vision of Ayame, Shiko can still feel her shock as she pulled her and Suzume into a hug.
"I'm so proud of you, Ayame," Shiko whispered, "Whether you had won or not—I'm so proud."
"You should tell us next time," Hiroshi arrived next, patting Ayame's messy hair with a smile, "We'll make time for any event you invite us to."
"You were amazing, Aya," Yume smiled and pinched her cheek. Ayame was as tall as her now; since when did her sister grow so much? "You'll be a strong hero in the future."
Ayame choked back her emotions and grinned, nodding her head proudly as she displayed the medal around her neck. Suzume continued to hug Ayame and she turned to her mummified uncle expectantly.
"I guess you did alright," Aizawa managed to say.
"I'm super strong, right?!" Ayame grinned.
"Super strong!" Suzume repeated, "Yume-neechan and Aya-neechan are super strong!"
Ayame giggled and turned to nuzzle Suzume. A low chuckle can be heard behind the family and Ayame looked up, lilac eyes watching Yuu and Noeru walk by them.
"Congratulations again, Aya-neechan," Yuu teased lightly with his pleasant smile. Ayame resisted the flush from her face, gaping at Yuu for the nickname. Wha—why?! "You've raised a good daughter."
"My, aren't you charming," Shiko laughed.
"Excuse us," Noeru said politely, nodding once towards the family and both of them walked off.
Ayame stared at their backs with a bewildered expression. What was the point in showing up in the first place?! Was it just for Yuu to tease her?!
"Wow… I can understand why they're nicknamed the 'two princes'," Yume hummed.
"Onee-chan!" Ayame shouted in disbelief, how did they even hear that?!
"They sound cute too," Shiko giggled.
"Shiko," Hiroshi turned to his wife.
"Oh, don't be jealous," Shiko patted Hiroshi's arm, "You're still the only man I have eyes for."
They arched an eyebrow at Shiko's choice of words but she merely laughed it off. Hiroshi turned to Ayame next, a very serious expression in his violet eyes as he glanced at the two boy's back.
"You should focus on your studies. Don't think about dating."
Ayame gaped again.
"Otou-san! What?! I'm not even interested in them!" Ayame rebutted.
"They were getting a little too touchy with you," Hiroshi continued to frown.
Ayame blushed again, her cheeks reddening in a mix of embarrassment and shame. Why—no way! That was only during the match! All three of them were very serious in competing!
"D-do we…even have time to congratulate senpai too…"
Her ears perked up, turning around to see a 1-A behind them. They looked a bit intimidated by her family yet—a lot of them still smiled and showed up to see her. Ayame handed Suzume off to Yume, smiling at both her sisters before running off to her kouhais.
"You guys made it!"
"Mhmm!" Ochako grinned, "You were great, senpai!"
"Your giant summons are so manly!" Kirishima complimented.
"C-congratulations, Ayame-senpai!" Midoriya shouted.
She grinned at the compliments, puffing her chest proudly to display the medal and laughed. From the brief glance, Ayame did not see Todoroki or Bakugo around—which was fine. She had caught a glimpse of Bakugo when she looked in 1-A's booth before. And Todoroki…
Well, he saw, too. I'm happy with that.
U.A. High School was off for the next two days. There needed time for students to recuperate and for the school to clean up the festivities. The students were more than excited for the time off and some even began to train again, eager to prepare themselves for next year.
Takarada Noeru arrived to the Shimizu estate with a duffel bag. Their staff let him in without a word, already used to seeing the Takarada heir enter and leave their household.
"Yuu-sama is in his backyard. Would you like us to retrieve him, Noeru-sama?"
"No, I'll go myself," Noeru handed his bag off to the kimono wearing servant, brushing past them coolly, "Prepare a room for me in Yuu's wing."
The servant took the bag, curiously looking at the heir yet Noeru said nothing more. He went to where Yuu was informed to be at, walking on the wooden floors and glancing at the passing bonsai garden. As he reached Yuu's part of the estate, Noeru saw Yuu practicing his Quirk with the lake in the back.
That's funny, Noeru thought, he never trains.
"Are you just going to stand there and watch?" Yuu turned to greet him.
"No, I'll sit and watch," Noeru proceeded to sit casually. "I'm staying here for awhile."
Yuu blinked, stopping his training to walk towards him. "Did your father kick you out?"
Noeru scowled and turned away. "No, I haven't seen him since the tournament. I only went back to get my items." He looked at the colorful flowers decorated at the corner of the backyard, little butterflies dancing around it on the side. "It's better this way."
"Ah, so you're running away from home," Yuu concluded.
Noeru sent him a glare yet Yuu cared not for it. He took a seat next to the boy and waved for a servant to bring them tea. After, the servant left, leaving the two to sit in silence. Yuu gently took the cup with his hand and sipped it in his usual elegant self.
"She was going to let me win."
Yuu set down his cup carefully, glancing at Noeru through the corner of his eyes. The other boy was still focusing on the little butterfly as it fluttered around the flowers.
"I didn't want that to happen again," Noeru continued, "But I wasn't expecting to lose either."
The corner of Yuu's lips quirked up, turning his attention to his garden too.
"I guess she fooled us both," Yuu chuckled. "I can see why you like her."
"I don't like her," Noeru glared at him again.
"But you don't hate her either."
Noeru stayed quiet.
During the fight, Noeru had lashed out at Ayame. It had been so long since he wanted to reprimand her, prove that he was better and she was undeserving. When Yuu had said she was fighting because of Noeru, he thought she just wanted to beat him and kick him out of the school.
But…he was wrong.
"I don't hate you."
"What did you and…Sasaki talked about, exactly," Noeru was truly curious, crystal eyes glancing at his friend from the side.
Yuu blinked and tried to hide the amused laugh bubbling in his throat. His icy eyes turned soft as he stared off to the side, recalling her shouts and determination.
"I guess I played the villain in her mind," Yuu said lightly, "So she, the hero, will beat the villain from trampling on her—and your—dreams."
Yuu tilted his head to glance at Noeru, a smirk on his lips at Noeru's surprised expression. He remembered Ayame chasing him after their fight, wide lilac eyes looking at him with the same unwavering gaze. Yuu kept their talk to himself; that was a memory he did not want to share with Noeru.
"I think a part of me—still want to believe in you."
"To be honest, I'm quite disappointed with myself," Yuu sighed, turning his gaze towards the sky above. "Third place…maybe I should aim for first."
Noeru snapped out of his thoughts. It was unbecoming of him to think about her so much. "If you can't even beat Sasaki then you shouldn't hope for first," Noeru smirked.
"Oh?" Yuu smiled, "And who was the one to lose against her, too?"
"It was one time," Noeru frowned, "Won't happen again."
Yuu chuckled again and stood up with a stretch.
"We're going to be heroes, right? Then we need to do better than this," Yuu said, it was time he took his training seriously, too.
Noeru smirked. Looks like he finally found something worth challenging.
"I'm not responsible for any damages to property," Noeru stood up as well.
"Don't worry, I won't ask a homeless for reimbursement," Yuu teased.
Yuu moved his head right as a dagger flew past him. His icy eyes sharpened, a smirk playing on his lips as water from the lake floated up.
It was time to train.
Somewhere in Yuu's room, Noeru's phone beeped with a text message.
When you're ready to come home, let's talk.
Ayame was absolutely exhausted the next day.
Recovery Girl had healed most of her injuries but—the fatigue from the whole tournament worn her out. There were also many emotional outbursts and egotistical jerks she had to deal with but—after everything that had happened, Ayame just felt dead.
She managed to sleep in for a bit, relieved that the school was closed for two days, before waking up around noon. When she did wake up, however, Shiko was fumbling more than usual around the house. It startled Ayame so bad she had ran up to her mother in worry, looking at Suzume with a slight frown.
"Why didn't you wake me earlier? We need to take okaa-san to the hospital," Ayame scolded lightly.
"I told her to let you sleep," Shiko clutched her head and patted Suzume's head, "This is nothing."
"Okaa-san has been like this the whole day," Suzume whispered to Ayame, large violet eyes wide at her sister, "I-I didn't mean to hide it…!"
Ayame's eyes softened and picked Suzume up, patting her head softly in apology. "Sorry, Suzu. I guess I'm still tired. Okaa-san, just wait a bit. Let me change and we'll go to the hospital."
"That's not necessary, Ayame, you need to rest—"
"You strained your eyes because of the tournament yesterday, right?" Ayame cut her off. Shiko does not often go outside because of the light affecting her eyes. She was grateful her mother had even managed to show up for the tournament. But now… "I'm already healed up! We can go. Yume-nee and otou-san are back at work, right?"
Suzume nodded her head and Shiko sighed. Why are all of her daughters so stubborn?
With that, Ayame quickly returned to her room and changed into a casual pink blouse and black shorts. It was already mid-spring; the weather was perfect as it is. Ayame glanced in the mirror and saw her loose brunette hair, contemplating her usual braids before quickly shaking her head. Still, she got a black ribbon and pulled her hair back into a high ponytail.
After, Ayame took her bag containing her keys and wallet before returning to the living room. She helped Suzume put her scruffy black hair into pigtails and brought Shiko her cane, all three of them heading out.
They called a taxi from a main street and Ayame helped Shiko in, giving the driver the instructions to their usual hospital before they headed off. The taxi driver kept sneaking glances at Ayame, the mini television in his car was playing the U.A. Sports Festival from yesterday. She blushed and looked out the window, awkwardly hoping the car ride will go faster.
When they arrived to the hospital, Ayame helped Shiko and Suzume out. She pulled out her wallet to pay her tab and the driver finally turned to her with a smile.
"You're the girl from the second-year's tournament, right? Congratulations! You were strong!"
Ayame froze, cheeks reddening with a blush before hastily thanking the man. Even after he drove off, Ayame was still dazed. This was the first time…someone had complimented her without comparing her to Yume. She was—recognized for her strength.
"Nee-chan?" Suzume tilted her head.
"Oh—yeah! Let's go!"
Her mood improved greatly, ignoring her sore muscles as she led Shiko and Suzume into the hospital. They had often visited here because her mother needed regular checkups on her eyes. And, since Shiko was exposed to many different lights yesterday, it may have added unnecessary strain to her eyes. Suzume could not be left alone in the house by herself and although she does not go out often, she behaved well for a ten year old.
Ayame helped them sign in the hospital, telling the nurse of the usual doctor before receiving the visitors pass. She helped put one on her mother then kneeled down to her sister, taping the sticker over her dress. Ayame stood back up and pressed the tag on her shirt, looking up to see—heterochromia eyes of grey and turquoise looking at her.
"To-to—Todoroki-kun?" Ayame sputtered out in disbelief. How long had he been watching her?!
"Senpai…" Todoroki blinked. One glance was enough for him to know Ayame's mother was blind…and she was the caretaker for her little sister.
"Oh? Is it your friend, Ayame?" Shiko asked curiously.
"Uh," Ayame wasn't sure how to reply. Was 'friend' the right word? She wasn't sure if—Todoroki considered her as one… "H-he's a student from Shouta-ojisan's class. W-what are you doing here?"
Todoroki relaxed back to his nonchalant manner, mismatch eyes holding Ayame's gaze. Was it her or—did he seem different today? Sure, Ayame hadn't technically…talked to him since her last outburst yesterday—and he had come to watch her tournament but—what was going on? Why did she feel so—nervous in front of him?
"I'm…" Todoroki paused, letting out a small sigh before turning back to her with straightforward eyes. "Here to visit my mother."
Ayame calmed down, lilac eyes taking in his honest answer with a slight surprise. His…mother?
"I won't disturb you any longer," Todoroki bowed his head slightly and made his way towards them, "But…if…when you're free, senpai, may I…talk to you?"
Ayame looked at him in surprised again. What was going on? Todoroki—was approaching her—first? A-and what did he want to talk about?!
"She's free now!"
The two daughters turned to Shiko immediately, one curious and the other astonished.
"O-okaa-san, your appointment—"
"Hush, dear," Shiko smiled and tapped her shoulder reassuringly, "Suzume and I can get to the office just fine, isn't that right, honey?"
Suzume looked at them with big violet eyes, tilting her head curiously to the side. Her mother usually calls her that when Shiko wanted her to agree. With a bright smile, Suzume nodded her head. Well, Suzume was able to get the gist of the conversation. That pretty boy wanted to talk to her sister!
"Ah, no, I can wait…" Even Todoroki tried to interject.
"Nonsense," Shiko smiled again, Todoroki… Why does that name sound familiar?
This was the first time Shiko met any (boy) friends of Ayame! The boys from her class yesterday didn't stay long enough to chat but—with this sudden appearance of another boy, Shiko may just have hope for her daughters. None of them ever brings any boys home!
"C'mon, Suzume, say 'bye' to Aya and her little boyfriend for now," Shiko instructed.
Ayame's cheeks immediately redden while Suzume held Shiko's hand. She smiled brightly at her sister and friend.
"Bye-bye, Aya-neechan, and boyfriend!"
They left quickly, leaving Ayame to blush from embarrassment at her family. Todoroki looked mildly surprised before glancing at his upperclassman. Ayame was glaring in their directions with red cheeks and a slight pout.
Cute…
"W-well," Ayame sighed, she never stuttered this much before! "Should we…go somewhere?"
"Ah," Todoroki agreed and began to lead the way.
Ayame quietly followed one step behind. He was wearing casual clothes today; a navy blue button up over a white shirt and black pants with a bag strapped on his back. His hair was easily distinguishable and yet—the first thing Ayame noticed of him was his eyes. A deep shade of grey and a bright shade of turquoise…
Ayame had been sneaking glances at Todoroki yet he only looked straight ahead. She was silently curious about what he wanted to talk about. He didn't stay behind after the tournament while the other students did to congratulate her… But Ayame knew he was there to watch.
Todoroki had been the one to pull her out of her thoughts during her fight against Yuu. It was his eyes that—helped her win.
They arrived on the hospital rooftop quietly. Todoroki sat on an empty bench, mismatched eyes glancing over to her as an invitation.
"I believe…you deserve an explanation…and apology from me," he explained.
"I—you—don't have to," Ayame refused quietly, looking everywhere but him. There was something about his temperament now that unnerved her. It wasn't scaring her or anything but—it gave a weird flutter in her stomach and her cheeks to heat up.
"I want to, senpai," Todoroki offered again.
After all, her mother had given him this chance. Although there had been many thoughts running through his mind since the tournament, this had been especially one of them. Talking to Ayame again was what he wanted.
Ayame calmed down and, seeing the serious look in his eyes…allowed her to sit by his side.
Todoroki looked down on his hands resting over his lap, contemplating on where to begin. He wasn't expecting to see Ayame so soon and—in the hospital no less. But, he did find it ironic. This would be the second time he had run into her unexpectedly…and saw a different side of her again.
Todoroki can see how well she takes care of people. Her mother…her little sister; Ayame was naturally looking out for them. Despite her being rowdy and childish at times, when it came to the important things, Ayame knew what to do. Was that why she took her upperclassman role so seriously?
"During my match with Midoriya…he made me realize something," Todoroki started carefully.
It was just the two of them on the rooftop yet he dared not to speak above a whisper. The voice felt loud enough as it was and Ayame leaned in slightly, taking it all in.
"And afterwards…he told me, it was you who encouraged him."
Ayame froze, heat rushing from her neck to cheek again by the sudden exposure. Crap—how much did Midoriya say? How much does Todoroki know?!
I-I need to stop being so impulsive, Ayame sweated mentally.
Seeing the silent panic from Ayame caused Todoroki to smile just the slightest. It was a smile she did not see from her mental dilemma and even Todoroki hadn't realized he was doing it.
"He didn't tell me the exact conversation, both with you or…my old man but, I guessed enough."
Ayame paused again, turning to Todoroki with wide eyes. Wait—what did he mean—his old man—Endeavor?! Did Midoriya hear that too?! What?!
And—Endeavor?!
Ayame suddenly remembered her outburst against the Number Two Pro Hero, sweating again at her reckless mouth and actions. Crap, crap, crap! She—hadn't meant to make herself an enemy with his dad! Maybe Endeavor would be lenient and—completely forget about her? Yes, please, let that be true.
Ah, I can read her completely, Todoroki glanced at Ayame with a small quirk of his lips, already knowing that she must have been mentally panicking over the whole thing. He really wanted to know exactly what she said to his old man now. But—Todoroki wasn't desperate enough to speak with his father about that.
"You see… I have three older siblings…but it wasn't out of love. My old man…he arranged a Quirk marriage with my mother in order to create the perfect kid with both Quirks inherited," Todoroki clenched his fists, "And he did."
Wait…what?
Ayame stared at him motionlessly.
"He was created for the sole purpose of inheriting both Quirks…. He will be stronger than All Might….."
Her fists clenched together.
Was…Endeavor serious?
Who—what—kind of person—would do that?!
"I've been trained since young because of it," Todoroki continued emotionlessly. He hadn't gone in full detail with Midoriya and yet with his upperclassman…he felt the need to go in depth. It's been so tiring dealing with this himself. It's been so long since he was able to find someone to talk with. "Day after day…since age five…he relentlessly 'trained' me to be strong so one day, I will surpass All Might."
His mismatched eyes focused on the sky above, watching the clouds drift by slowly. How odd, Todoroki doesn't feel as frustrated recalling this again. Maybe a part of him had been suppressing it for so long that he's just—tired.
"In my memories, my mother is always crying. She had been the one there to support me…but I suppose even she had her limit," Todoroki said softly, "'Your left side is unsightly,' my mother said as she poured boiling water on me."
…what?
Todoroki brought his hand to cover his scar, eyes closing in remembrance of those many years ago. Even now, he sometimes could feel the phantom pain it left behind on him, reminding him of his hatred for his father and the pain he caused his mother.
"'I can't raise him anymore… I feel like I shouldn't…' And then, she was sent away."
Todoroki opened his eyes again yet he could not face Ayame. He wasn't sure what face he was making—or what face she was making. Ayame had been quiet for so long that—he wondered if she was still listening… But judging by the slight movement coming from her, he supposed she still was.
"Ever since that day, I thought my presence would put pressure on my mom, so I never went to see her. I'm sure she continues to be bound by me…by my old man…" He clenched his left hand, "That's why, in order to aim to become a hero again with this body, with everything I have…" He sighed, "In order to become my ideal hero… I need to see her and talk to her… There's so much we need to talk about…"
He paused, letting his head hang low. This was what he had been thinking about since the tournament. This was what he must do. The reason he couldn't use the left side during the last match—Todoroki Shoto couldn't be the only one to escape from Endeavor's torment. His mother had been there—suffering with him every step of the way.
"Even if she doesn't want it, I will rescue her from here. That is my starting line. That is how I feel…"
And finally, Todoroki turned to Ayame.
Ayame had her head hung down the whole time, shoulders slightly trembling no matter how hard she tried to contain the movement by clenching her fists. Todoroki was—startled by her response, heterochromia eyes following the slight trail of water falling down her cheeks.
Ayame…was crying.
"You wouldn't understand what it's like to be related to a Pro Hero like him."
He's right.
"You bounced in happily without knowing anyone's circumstances and barging into everyone's business."
Takarada's right, too.
Everyone had their own complications to go through. Not everyone was lucky enough to have a loving family like her. Ayame had been inconsiderately pushing her thoughts onto others, not realizing what kind of circumstances they were going through. Her angry shouts at Todoroki—it was her own selfish frustrations.
"I'm…so…sorry," Ayame clenched her hands tighter, "I'm so sorry—Todoroki-kun. I—yesterday, I had spoken without thinking—without considering your feelings. You were right to be mad at me—I really—didn't know anything—and I am so, so sorry."
With a father like Endeavor—it's a wonder how Todoroki managed to survive so far. Being treated as a tool and not a person—being born for the sole purpose of fulfilling Endeavor's wish—how selfish was that? And Ayame had said she understood him?
Who was she kidding?
Since the beginning, she didn't understand anyone at all. Not Noeru, not Yuu, and definitely not Todoroki.
And now, Todoroki had been the one to tell her about his secrets. He had come to her first, to explain for his cold behavior—when he wasn't obliged to. All because she had thrown a little tantrum; trying to prove something to him when their problems were on the opposite end of the spectrum.
Today—he's visiting his mother today…
That burn scar…caused by his own mother… Ayame couldn't even begin to imagine the torment he must have felt. Based on how he spoke about her, Todoroki really…love his mother. The reason he relied only on ice, the reason he cannot—does not want to use his flames… It all makes sense now.
If only I had known earlier… If only—
But there was nothing she could have done.
"Why are you crying?" Todoroki let out a small exhale, the corner of his lips pulling up again. Maybe Bakugo was right; their senpai really was a crybaby.
He reached out to her hands, gently prying her fingers open from the tight fists. There was barely any resistance from Ayame as she watched through teary eyes at their joined hands. Tiny, crescent shaped marks were dug deep into her palm, causing Todoroki to feel…a slight flutter in his chest to see it.
"I never told anyone," Todoroki said, "It was my own problem to deal with."
"And yet I still said some stupid things," Ayame tried to laugh yet it came out like a choked sob, "Takarada was right. I am too meddlesome."
Her hands moved to clench again yet Todoroki stopped it with his hands, one warm and the other cold prevented her hands from closing. His eyes were looking straight into teary lilac ones, his lips pulled down into his usual frown at the mention of her classmate.
"That may be so," he began quietly, "But, I like that part about you, Ayame-senpai."
Ayame was too shocked to even blush. Her eyes were wide on his, mentally and physically freezing from his piercing eyes and soft confession. There was just—too much going on to even realized the severity of his words. He called her by her first name—he said he liked her meddlesome self.
But, the moment did not last for long.
A sudden ringtone broke the silence between the two. Ayame hastily took her hands back to reach for her phone, the slight warmth and chill still lingering on her hands. She brought the phone to her ear without checking the caller ID and answered, slightly turning away from Todoroki. He took his hands back reservedly, acting as if nothing out of the ordinary happened.
"H-hello?"
"Aya?" Yume's voice echoed from the other line, pausing as she asked, "Are you crying?"
What the hell?! Her sister was just too perceptive! Yume always knew whenever something was wrong with Ayame. Even when she had cried hours after—Yume would be asking her the same question!
"No!" Ayame quickly refused—yet couldn't come up with an excuse. "What is it?"
"Oh, okay," Yume didn't sound like she believed her. "I'm just calling to let you know I'm taking okaa-san and Suzume home. So you can go enjoy your little date~"
"It's not—" Ayame stopped herself, hoping Todoroki had not heard any of her embarrassing family conversation and sighed. She brushed back her bangs and sneaked a glance at Todoroki. He looked calm as always. "Okay. I'll go home later."
"Bye-bye, onee-chan!" Suzume echoed from the other line.
Ayame smiled. "Bye-bye, Suzu."
"Your family cares a lot about you."
Ayame startled, turning towards Todoroki with wide eyes. Wait—how much did he hear?!
"Uh, yeah, I guess they do," she rubbed her neck awkwardly.
Thinking back…Todoroki did say he had three older siblings…but because of Endeavor…she doubted he had interacted with his own siblings as much. Her eyes softened on his form, thinking about the burden he had gone through and wiped away the tear marks. There was something she could still do!
"I know—it must have been difficult to tell me all of that but—I want to say, thank you, for sharing it with me. I hope—you would still be able to accept us—even if it's a little."
Ayame's heart beat rapidly against her chest and she could feel the wind blowing on her heated cheeks but—she won't do things half-heartedly anymore.
"I'll be here from now on, okay? I'm your senpai! You can believe in me!" It was Ayame's turn to grasp his hand then, the hand she wanted to hold since the tournament with his lonesome self.
Ayame looked at him with a determined gaze and Todoroki couldn't help but feel surprised. Despite everything, she was still trying to be cheery and reassuring to him. Todoroki can see how high she valued him and—he felt a bit…touched.
Sometimes, he wondered why she's so driven for them. Since the attack at USJ and then the tournament, Ayame had always been there to support them. In the beginning, Todoroki had waved it off as her duty as an upperclassman but—it's so much more than that.
Ayame had been kind since the very beginning. Whether it was to strangers on the train, or to her kouhai merely one year younger than her, she always tried her best. The only time she doesn't—was when people compared her to her perfect sister. There was a part he saw where she just...looked defeated...and tired. She can do her best for others but—not herself.
That was why she was so angry with him. Todoroki had ignored her feelings, too. He hadn't cared, whether he knew or not, he just...didn't care. He was so caught up in his own world that he accidentally triggered Ayame into rebuking him.
There was still some truth in her outburst from yesterday. Ayame had managed to prove her worth to everyone, to him. Todoroki had heard the whispers amongst the audience, had seen the way people immediate sought for similarities as soon as her hair had come undone. And even after she had won—they still wouldn't stop?
He had heard of the rumors regarding LullaCry. He had seen her on television before with her fearsome Quirk. But…how can they still compare the two when there were distinct differences between them?
Ayame's hairs and eyes were a shade lighter than LullaCry's. Her eyes were wider and—lively whereas her sister's were softer and deeper in color. Ayame brought sunshine and warmth with her smiles while Yume's had a gentle, calm demeanor.
Not only counting their Quirk, how can people say they're similar?
His mismatched eyes focus on the black ribbon holding up her ponytail, narrowing slightly at the way Ayame still felt insecure about herself. She would never admit to these things out loud unless she was pushed in a corner like yesterday but… Todoroki can easily understand Ayame, surprisingly.
"Do you believe in yourself?" Todoroki couldn't help but ask that question back.
His free hand reached out to her hair. Ayame froze as he pulled the ribbon free, long strands of brown hair fell down to her back.
"You're not LullaCry," his eyes returned to surprised lilac ones, "You don't need to worry about that anymore."
This time, a light blush did spread over her cheeks. Ayame released his hand and rubbed the back of her hair, averting her eyes to the city below. Really—how unfair. It only took a few words from him to break her insecurities.
"Then—can I assume—I did, somehow—manage to get through to you?" Ayame asked hopefully.
Todoroki blinked, a slow smile emerging as he wondered whether to tease her or not. It was just…too easy.
"Maybe," he stood up from the bench, glancing behind to see her agape expression and smiled to himself. "Let's get some food."
Wait, Ayame froze, is that…an invitation?
She quickly hopped next to him, leaning forward slightly to stare at his usual blank face. There wasn't the usual glare in his eyes anymore—no more cold intimidation from him. She felt as if Todoroki already answered her question with the way he was now.
"What about your mother?" Ayame asked.
"I told her I'm coming back tomorrow," Todoroki reassured, one turquoise eye glancing at her, "Besides, there's someone else that needs taken care of."
She flushed and brought her hands up to cover her reddened eyes, nearly stumbling if not for the warm hand steadying her arm. Ayame regained her balance and Todoroki let go, both awkwardly taking one step back.
"That's what I should be saying!" Ayame recovered quickly.
Todoroki said nothing more, a small twitch on his lips as if refuting her statement. Ayame huffed again and crossed her arms, both walking side by side this time.
Yet, as they continued to walk together, the distance between them closed again, their hands a mere inch apart.
"You know," Ayame started randomly, hopping ahead and turning towards him with a bright smile. Long strands of light brown hair blew in the wind, painting a perfect scene of her sunny disposition. "Navy looks good on you."
She turned back around to the front so he wouldn't see her tinted cheeks for the nth time, an odd flutter in her stomach by her bold comment. Todoroki stared at her back thoughtfully, glancing down to his shirt then to Ayame again. He straightened up and walked one step faster, catching up to her in no time.
"Ne, what do you want to eat?" Ayame asked offhandedly, brushing her previous comment away.
"Soba," Todoroki thought for a second, going back to his usual mood, "Co—"
"Cold?"
The two said at the same time, causing Ayame to laugh and nod her head.
A/N:
Ohgosh, thank you so much for the overwhelming support from the last chapter! I am so happy and relieved to see Yuu and Noeru so well-received by you all! Now, we will go back to the daily scheduled AyaShoto where the romance will slowly become more apparently to these two clueless teens!
Reviews are much loved! Thank you all for the wonderful reviews—to the ones always showing excitement to every chapter and the well-thought out one, I love them all so much! It was definitely a motivator for me to continue writing!
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