Swiggs: You made me bust out laughing... because I visualized that so vividly. ｡ﾟ(TヮT)ﾟ｡ wow, ahaha ~
Oblivious IJ: ヽ(￣ω￣(。。 )ゝ
Lavi hime 4E 3: They'll get together I swear ! ･ﾟ･(｡TωT｡)･ﾟ･ ❤ promise promise ahah. ~ come back to life. (╥﹏╥)
Guest: lolol ~ ! I destroyed those finals, and i'm bringing the feels for youu ! ❤ please enjoy !
lovelyhatter: aahh ❤ thank you so much, that makes me very happy ! next chapter for you !
Rynxenvy: I'm glad too ❤ she's come a long way (¯▿¯)
bbymojo: ❤❤❤ thank you so much, and you're very welcome ! i absolutely love writing for you and everyone else ! seeing how my work can provoke emotions is just so crazy and surreal aahh, but then again I'm totally feeling these emotions with you 100% (´｡• ᵕ •｡`) , i also have so much fun writing so it's great, ehe, i think you'll like this chapter!
•○●○•
Merry Christmas to all !
I hope everyone enjoys this holiday ~ !
This chapter turned out longer than I thought it would be, but I hope you can still enjoy it.
I wanted to update today to give you all a present
thank you for reading, and as always, i apologize for any errors. 人(_ _*)
❤•○●○•❤
The Distance Between Them
❤•○●○•❤
"It's good to see that you are well and unharmed, Aihara-san." Nezu smiles from his spot on the couch in his office.
Hotaru, who has made herself at home with no qualms, is lying across the second couch across from his. She's lying on her back, eyes shut with a smile. The smell of the coffee Nezu provided for her invades her nostrils and she happily inhales. Sitting up, she grabs it off of the center table and takes a sip. Once she's finished, she sets it down and smiles at the principal.
"I didn't think my disappearance would cause so much worry, and I definitely didn't think everyone would welcome me back with open arms." She begins genuinely. "It… really feels good to be back."
"Of course." Nezu brings his paws together, his round eyes holding a happy glint. "This is where you belong. I hope you no longer feel uncertain about being here, and I hope from here on out you can focus on yourself and work towards your own goals."
Hotaru lets out a soft laugh, turning her head and looking towards the window beyond his desk. There are countless stars twinkling in the dark sky, and the moon shines bright. It's a perfectly clear night.
"Well, if I'm being honest, I still have some doubts about this whole hero thing. After being a villain for so long, becoming a true hero sounds absurd. Focusing on myself would also be a first." She admits. "I'm sure it won't be so simple. This might be the most difficult road yet. But, I'm excited." She looks back at him, giving a sheepish shrug. "I only hope you and everyone would bear with me."
"Becoming a hero is never easy." Nezu informs. "Remember, 'a true hero is someone who overcomes life's misfortunes.' With everything you overcame thus far, I can confidently say you will become an exceptional hero."
At that, her silver eyes gradually widen. She remembers Present Mic saying that exact same quote on the day of the practical part of the entrance exam. She had completely forgotten about those words, and now she finds herself smiling as she remembers.
"Thank you, Principal Nezu." She dips her head in thanks.
Her lips curve upwards as she contemplates over something. Her becoming an 'exceptional hero' isn't a bad prediction. However, she thinks there's a more fitting title for someone like her. She won't say that out loud just yet, though.
"Onto more important things," She begins, crossing her legs and leaning forward. Her body noticeably grows tense and her eyes shine in worry. "Is Aizawa-san doing alright? He was hurt very badly, and I'm really worried."
"His injuries were quite severe, but his recovery is going smoothly." He answers, smiling when Hotaru lets out a relieved breath. "Although, he probably won't return to his teaching duties anytime soon."
It feels as if a heavy weight has been lifted off of her, and she slumps backwards against the soft cushions. What relieving news. She wouldn't be able to forgive herself if things turned out worse. Yet, she's still admittedly having a hard time forgiving herself for letting things turn out the way they did.
"I see. That's good." She lowers her eyelids. "Aizawa-san is really amazing. I owe him a lot, actually."
The way she talks about her homeroom teacher makes it evident to Nezu that she cares about him a whole lot. How her voice grows softer, how she looks more relaxed, her praise, there are no signs more clearer. He can't help but to speak on it.
"You seem very fond of Aizawa-san." He says, and she nods, reopening her eyes.
"He helped me a whole lot. He even saved me. So, of course I am. I also appreciate his honesty. He never tells a lie or tries to make things seem better than they actually are. If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't even be here right now..." She gradually trails off, gazing off to the side with darkening cheeks. She mutters. "...What of it?"
"I'm just happy to hear you trust your instructor."
"Hmph." Hotaru crosses her arms over her chest, now glaring at the principal with narrowed eyes.
His tone almost implies that something has went according to his plan. That reminds her of her earlier cautiousness around him. She's still curious as to why he allowed her to enroll into this school and what his plan even was. Surely he had some underlying reason.
"That reminds me," She points a single finger at him. "Why did you even allow me to become a student here? You don't seem like the type to accept a person like me so willingly. All you knew about me at the time was that I was a villain. What were you trying to achieve?"
"You are wrong, Aihara-san." Nezu shakes his head, making her meager glare falter. "I knew quite a bit about you even then."
Surprise crosses her features and she lowers her hand. How would he know about her? She understands him knowing her as a villain, but it's almost as if he knew more. That shouldn't be possible. Her life has been wrapped in secrecy. The most anyone knows about her is the fact she was a villain, and that fact shouldn't have led him to accept her as a student. Or, is he just insane?
"What did you know, and how?" She practically demands, and he answers.
"The day you sent in an application, I coincidentally met Daichi. He came here asking for us to help you, not knowing you had applied. I brought this to his knowledge. Since he knew you for quite some time and your true identity, I questioned if he knew your motives and if you intended to cause trouble. He didn't know your motives and I had every intention to deny you entry. However, he insisted that you had good within you."
Hotaru's eyes are wide as she stares at Nezu, and her lips are parted. She nearly has forgotten how to breathe, the shock of this information overwhelming. It's like time has slowed. She never would've guessed this. Her hand moves over her chest. She had no clue that Daichi came here to ask for help on her behalf.
"He informed me of your good deeds at the local park. How you feed the fish daily and pick up any trash, and chase off people who break the law. I considered allowing you entry then which made me go ahead and allow you to take the written test. When me met face to face, you didn't seem like a pure villain." Nezu smiles, his paws resting in his lap. "Then, during the practical exam when you rescued your fellow classmate, I knew he was right. You played the role of a hero perfectly and naturally. All I hoped to achieve was to save you and provide you with proper guidance."
To think that for the longest she was overly conscious of Nezu for no reason at all. Her thoughts of him somehow ruining her entire poorly put together plan were pointless. He had good intentions. She was merely suspecting false things—something she tends to do a lot. She did the exact same thing with Daichi.
Her lips downturn as she becomes dismal, her eyelids lowering slightly and just enough so her lashes brush against her cheeks. How could she have been so blind towards all these good things? Why did she ignore them? There are times when she seen worry on Daichi's face, but she didn't think much of it.
She runs her fingers through her hair rather slowly and not all the way through. For the longest she's been around negligent villains. Her parents hardly ever worried about her and always overlooked her voiced concerns.
Do this and do that. Don't think and don't have qualms. Train hard and don't slack. Think as a villain and not as a hero. Stop being weak and shut everything else out. Look up to them and no one else. Live up to be his prodigy. Never forget that night, and never forget that day. Those were the words she had to live by, so she wasn't used to someone worrying over her.
From the moment she met Daichi, he became an important person in her life. He was a light in the dark world she was trapped in. He never stopped lighting her way. He was like the moon, always there no matter what, whereas Shoto was like a star. A bright star like Sirius. However, just like all stars, they don't shine forever. His light has long but faded from her life.
She shakes her head, diminishing her thoughts of Shoto, not understanding why she decided to think of him. Nevertheless, it was only because of Daichi she was able to enroll in this school and get this far. He saved her in a way no one else could. Maybe she owes him more than anyone else.
The door slams open, and anxious yellow-gold eyes dart around. There's glistening sweat on his temple, showing just how much energy he spent to get here so quickly. He's standing and unharmed, no longer suffering any injuries. She stands up and Daichi's eyes lock onto her.
Her eyes are no longer drooping and wide. This is his first time seeing her not sleep deprived. She finally looks healthy and like she's been well taken care of. It's like she's a whole new person.
"Hotaru..!" He grins breathlessly, his eyes shining with relief. His breaths are heavy. "You're really here. Thank goodness—"
He takes a single step forward and his words are forced to come to a halt. Hotaru runs over to him promptly, moisture swirling in her eyes. She rams into him, making him stagger backwards a bit. Her arms are wrapped around his midsection, her face buried in his clothing as she embraces him tightly. Surprise crosses his features, her giving him a hug an absolute first.
"I'm really sorry." Hotaru says quietly, her voice somewhat muffled. "I didn't mean to make you worry so much."
With a small smile, Daichi returns her embrace while shaking his head. He's subtly being reminded of the Hotaru he met way back then—before she underwent so many changes. Even now, he doesn't know exactly what happened. All he could do is guess.
"You don't need to apologize." He replies. "You warned me many times to just forget about you, and I chose not to. So, here we are."
"I really do appreciate everything you've done for me… you saved me... but see what happened?!" She pulls back, glaring up at him. "You almost died! You should've just listened to me, you idiot!"
"Ah, whatever. It's in the past. I'm still alive, aren't I?" He waves her off, making her huff. She didn't fail to notice how he used the same words she used against him once before. "Are you ready to go?"
"Yeah," She mutters, walking over and grabbing her bag. "I want to sleep."
She was aware Daichi was on his way to come get her. For the time being, it seems she's going to be staying with him since she has nowhere else to go. Apparently he doesn't live too far away from here. Living with Daichi… she wonders what that would be like.
Slinging her bag over her shoulder, she looks at him curiously. She knows they won't have any problems getting along. They have known each other for so long and their personalities are compatible. Yes, she's not concerned about not enjoying her stay. She's actually just curious about what his house looks like.
He's a park ranger and fish store owner. Gradually, her silver orbs start to sparkle and grow brighter. Does he live in an apartment with a fish tank? Or, does he live in a house with a big yard inhabiting a pond? Does he have any animals? Cats? All of the above?
She says her goodnight to Nezu, following Daichi out of the room with an eager smile. Many pictures run through her mind of what his abode could possibly look like. One thing's for certain, his house must be amazing.
•○●○•
"I'm being serious, Hotaru! You really need to start wearing your seatbelt. I know it isn't all that comfortable, but it's for your safety. Not to mention it's the law—hey. Are you ignoring me?!" Daichi rants, jabbing a finger at Hotaru.
"I hear you." She mutters, walking past him with her hands in her pockets.
If she's being honest, she's only halfway paying attention to him. However, she gets the gist of what he's saying. He's right. Wearing your seatbelt is important, but something else is far more important. Right now, she needs to find that important thing.
She inspects the house thoroughly and with no shame. Daichi plops down on the couch, watching her silently with a frown. He's sure having someone other than himself in this house is going to be quite interesting, especially since that person is Hotaru.
It's a nice sized house, actually. Not too big but not too small either. The traditional japanese interior matches the exterior perfectly. Tatami flooring and sliding doors. It's beautiful, spacious, and very organized. Hotaru wonders why Daichi would need a house this size just for himself.
Regardless of the size of the house, it's evident she'll be getting her own bed and bathroom. She's very satisfied with that. This house is almost perfect. It would've earned a perfect score, if…
"All this extra space and you don't even have a fish tank?" Hotaru walks out from the hallway, coming to a stop in front of Daichi with her hands on her hips. "I'm disappointed."
"I'm always working and hardly ever here, so of course I don't have one." He speaks like it's obvious. "Not to mention I had like a hundred of tanks set up until that villain decided to blow up my store and fry all my fish."
"T-That's right." Hotaru grows unbelievably pale, bringing her hand over her mouth in horror as she reminisces.
She was so worried about Daichi that day and completely out of it that she didn't even realize what became of all the aquatic creatures. All of those fish died a brutal death. They may as well have become fish sticks. She clasps both of her hands in front of her and lowers her eyelids, saying a silent prayer for them.
"Well the good news is the reconstruction of my store is going smoothly. In about a month or so it should be done, then I can start setting up all those fish tanks again and start placing my orders." He says, and Hotaru's eyes reopen.
"Placing you orders?" She questions.
"Yeah." He laughs, leaning forward. "I place an order for fish. You didn't think I caught all of those fish myself, did you?"
"..."
Hotaru's cheeks darken and she looks off to the side. Embarrassing enough, she actually did think that. Daichi laughs some more and more loudly, and she scowls. When she looks back over at him, she's glaring.
"Sorry for not knowing they ship out fish like they ship out your average packages." She crosses her arms over her chest. "...Isn't that a little cruel?"
"Just wait till you hear how they restock lakes."
His amused face makes her jaw slowly go slack. She blinks a few times, feeling dreadful suddenly. How do they restock lakes? Is it worse than trapping fish in bags and stuffing them in a dark boxes for shipping? Little did she know, it's much worse.
•○●○•
Hotaru stands in front of U.A. High School, staring at a plane flying overhead. She swallows forcefully, taking note of how high it is in the sky. Daichi had to have been lying to her. There's no way that they drop fish out of planes to restock lakes.
Surely the impact of falling into the water after being dropped from so high up would kill them? What if a strong gust of wind blows and throws the fish off course, making them splat onto the ground? Such a method is way too reckless. Yet… Daichi has never lied to her before. She shakes her head to get rid of the scene she's visualizing.
Daichi dropped her off here this morning before he went off to work. She slept comfortably and there was even a nice breakfast prepared for her to eat. For once, she's living a normal life—a life she has always desired. She finally feels stable.
She has a genuine home now and attends the literal best hero school. She doesn't have to worry about anything anymore. The road she's walking down now in her life goes on forever. It's so bright, and she's so happy. However, she's nervous too.
It's almost like today is her first official day. She's no longer here to get retribution and worry over a certain someone. Starting now, she's here to become a hero. From here on out, she's going to chase after this dream of hers.
Her lips curve upwards into a smile and she reaches forward, her hand covering the school in the near distance. She curls her fingers as if to grab the building. All Might was right. This dream of hers was never too far out of her reach. Right now, she has a firm hold on it. Dreams really aren't just accidental. She needs to thank the top hero, and others too.
Pulling her phone out of her pocket, she holds it in front of her. The picture she took with All Might greets her and she can't help but laugh. She opens up her camera and snaps a photo of her school before her on this sunny day. She wants to remember this moment. It's as if she's documenting her first steps towards becoming a hero.
"Hey, Taru-chan!"
She looks over to see Kaminari walking over to her. He has just arrived for the day. She puts her phone back in her pocket and faces him, bowing lowly which makes him become overcome with confusion.
"Kaminari-kun, I'm really sorry about shocking you yesterday. I was being completely stupid and very disrespectful." She says, and he merely grins and waves his hand through the air.
"Don't worry about it. I completely ignored your warning. But, man," He draws out, folding his arms behind his head. "I didn't think your lightning was that powerful. That wasn't even your max voltage, huh?"
"N-No, it wasn't." She stutters slightly, straightening up with tinted cheeks. "I try not to use my max voltage because I always become completely useless afterwards."
"Really? Same!" He beams in excitement. "We're kind of similar then! My brain becomes short-circuited and I can't do anything for an hour."
"I guess so." She gives a small smile, fighting a laugh as she remembers how he acted with his short-circuited brain. "My body just completely shuts down afterwards. I envy the fact that you can at least stay conscious, and that your hair doesn't frizz up."
She takes a strand of her currently not frizzy hair between her fingers. Kaminari smirks, crossing his arms over his chest and staring down at her rather smugly. She gasps and leans closer to him in a flash with wide eyes.
"Is there a way to prevent it from happening? Do you know?" She questions, and he turns away from her with a shrug.
"Maybe. Maybe not. Who knows?"
"Kaminari-kun!" She pleads, grabbing onto his sleeve and making him even more smug. "If there's some kind of secret to it, then tell me!"
The truth is, it just doesn't happen to him. He's just enjoying teasing her right now and having her beg adorably for information. How she says his name with her cute voice is nice too. He finally faces her and instead of answering her, he requests something. Her eyelid twitches.
"Call me Denki."
"Kaminari!" A new voice wails.
The two of them turn their heads, seeing Mineta charging towards them both. His eyes are enraged and locked onto Hotaru's hands clutching his sleeve. Those two are way too close for his liking. How dare Kaminari try to steal his woman?
He leaps through the air dramatically, soaring towards them like a bird. Hotaru releases Kaminari's sleeve, turning to Mineta with a smile that makes him falter. His eyes grow wide and his cheeks turn a bright pink. How can someone be so beautiful?
Upon looking in his direction, her big and silver eyes light up. It's like the wind blows for the sole purpose of making her hair flow delicately just for him. Blades of grass swirl around her petite frame and her school skirt flutters. Some of her dark and rich strands glow gold as a result of the sunlight.
"Good morning, Mineta-kun." She beams, making him freeze in mid-air. Her dark lashes flutter when she blinks in bewilderment, especially when he falls onto the ground, face-planting.
"What was that about?" Kaminari rubs the back of his head, gazing down at Mineta's still form. He's slightly irritated at the interruption.
"If you're going to jump like that, you should at least try to think about your landing beforehand. That was reckless." Hotaru says with a tiny frown, crouching down and holding out her hand. "Are you alright?"
Mineta grabs onto her hand with surprising speed, making her eyes enlarge. He slowly looks up, revealing his scratched-up face, bloody nose, and perverted grin. Despite his fall, she knows that bloody nose isn't a result from it.
"I am now… Taru-chan." He licks his lips. Her skin… is very soft. His big eyes are trembling, and he starts to drool. "Tell me, how much longer are you going to keep this a secret?"
"Keep what a secret?" She murmurs in question, her brows furrowing.
"Your feelings for me. It's obvious, Taru-chan. You care about me a lot, don't you?" He quivers in delight, his thumb rubbing the back of her hand. "I can see right through you, my sexy anti-hero. You're the only girl who shows me so much affection."
"I didn't think I was being all that secretive about it." She tilts her head in confusion, helping him onto his feet. "But, maybe I haven't been making it very clear either."
Just like that, Kaminari and Mineta resemble poorly drawn sketch cutouts, or even mediocre animation. Beady eyes, squiggly lines, and as white as a sheet. Inwardly, they both scream. Hotaru straightens up, easily freeing her hand from Mineta's in his stunned state.
"Of course, I care about you." She says before looking over at Kaminari. "I care about you too, Kaminari-kun. From the moment I came here, you both tolerated and uplifted me. I consider you both my friends, so isn't it only natural that I care?"
Instantly after those words, the distant school bell rings. Hotaru isn't sure if that's the warning bell or late bell. To be on the safe side, she should get going. It won't be good at all if she's late on her first official day. She needs to give her all to become the hero she wants to be, and that includes following school rules.
"See you in class." She waves as she turns, heading up the stairs and towards the school ahead.
As she departs, Kaminari and Mineta return to their normal states. Kaminari lets out a breath of relief, thinking Hotaru actually liked Mineta... like that. He's glad it's not like that. However, Mineta drops onto his knees and brings his hands to his head. How dare she play with his heart like that, and so mercilessly?!
Perhaps it was unintentional… or maybe she wants to keep her feelings for him a secret. Yes, that must be it. It's because Kaminari is here and she doesn't want to break his heart by confessing her loving feelings to him. She wants to keep their relationship a secret—
"Mineta-kun, Kaminari-kun, my dear 'friends,'" Her voice brings them out of their thoughts, making them look up the flight of stairs.
They both grow pale at her intimidating eyes and her lazy smirk. It's as if she sensed their thoughts. She brings her hand up, brushing her bangs back as she faces them. Her villain side is showing, and it's being directed solely towards them.
"I hope someday you'll think of me as a 'friend,' too." She continues, clasping her hands together behind her back. "You see, I'm not interested in becoming anything more than that. Please understand, for your sake rather than mine. That would make me really happy. That's all."
She turns away from them, running her fingers through her wavy hair as she does with a smile. Mineta and Kaminari stare after her with agape mouths. Never have they been turned down in a more beautiful and piercing way. She's untouchable like lightning itself.
"Well, it was worth a shot." Kaminari sighs.
"I won't give up on you… Taru-chan." Mineta reaches after her, more determined than ever.
Hotaru steps through the front entry doors, leaving those two far behind her. Her feet carry her towards her shoe locker. As she slides out of her tennis shoes, she opens her locker and pulls out her uniform footwear. Something unexpected comes falling out.
Her lips part slightly, staring at the neat envelope that has drifted to the ground. It has fallen a couple feet away. She stares at it. A letter? Who would've written her a letter? Nobody comes to mind and as a result her curiosity is on the rise.
She places her outdoor shoes in her locker and sets her uniform shoes carefully onto the tiled floor. Just as she begins to walk over and retrieve the letter, someone else grabs a hold of it. She looks up a little warily, and her eyes widen at who's now before her.
They stare at each other silently, other students occasionally passing by. There is faint chattering surrounding them but complete silence between them. Shoto holds the letter out to her wordlessly. She's frozen stiff.
Her silver orbs are staring up at him through her ebony lashes, her lips down-turned slightly and a small crease in her brow. He's a few inches taller than her and she's not sure why that suddenly comes to mind. An ivory petal drifts in his direction from the open door. Her eyes avert away from his and towards the letter he's holding out to her. She takes it with sealed lips.
She turns away from him so she's facing her locker, and he opens the locker directly next to hers. How ironic that their foot lockers are side by side. Just like they sit next to each other in class and somehow always get partnered up together or against each other… there's no escaping him.
The moment she neatly tears open the letter Shoto starts to switch out his shoes. His presence makes her fingers tremble slightly. He's close, and her pulse is pounding loudly in her ears. Her eyelids lower slightly.
Anger and frustration, those emotions are flowing through her veins. After everything, he won't even say a simple "thank you?" Although, part of her wonders if she even wants that from him. Would it really bring her satisfaction at this point?
Him giving her his thanks, blessing her with a smile like the ones he gave her back then, him greeting her with a hug and going on mini adventures with her… those things just don't sound the same. Upon these thoughts, she realizes that she doesn't want anything to do with him at all.
Things are always bound to change, and change they did. She's growing to accept these things little by little. This new road she's walking down has put everything else behind her, including him. Although he's behind her along with other things, that doesn't mean she doesn't occasionally look back. She's always reflecting on the past, and she's not sure if that's a bad thing or not.
Dragging herself out of her thoughts, she pulls a neatly folded piece of paper out of the envelope. It's a map of school grounds. That's it. There's no writing of any kind on it other than the words displaying the names of various buildings, training grounds, and roads. Her lips purse slightly in confusion before realization dawns on her.
She was supposed to receive a map of the school on her first day here but never did. Wait. Confusion washes over her again. Nezu gave her a map when he printed out her schedule for her. Well, whatever. Having another map won't harm her in any way or form.
With a small shrug, she shoves the folded map into her pocket and slides on her uniform shoes. After tying them and closing her locker, she takes that first step towards her classroom. She passes by Shoto and he looks her way.
"Aihara-san—" He begins to say, and she smoothly cuts him off.
"Not interested."
"—Thank you." He finishes like she didn't interrupt him at all.
She stops in her tracks and leaves her back facing him. He stares at the back of her head, watching as her shoulders rise from a profound breath. When she releases that breath her head drops slightly, causing her disheveled tresses to bound. She faces him suddenly with a glower.
"I said I'm not interested—"
"And, I'm sorry."
Her silver eyes widen, a sheen swirling within them in her surprised state. That sheen fades almost as quickly as it appeared. Her lips downturn and her gaze becomes thunderous. She folds her arms over her chest.
"Somehow, I'm even less interested than before." She murmurs, her eyes narrowing. "You can keep your thanks and your apology. Let me make something clear, right here and now. You're the person I'm least interested in. Now, do me a favor and stop talking to me. Seriously," Her eyes shut in annoyance. "Your voice sounds like nothing but an irksome gnat buzzing around my ear. If you're not careful I may end up swatting you."
"I'm not keeping my thanks or apology." He disagrees, making her silver orbs reopen. "You don't have to accept it, but after everything you at least deserve to hear it. That's all I wanted to say."
"Not interested means, 'not interested.'" She scowls at the fact he's still talking.
"You say that, but you're still here."
A popping vein forms on her temple and she jabs a finger at him. The few students walking by flinch at her sudden swift movements. However, Shoto doesn't.
"Because I'm trying to have the last word here, but you keep talking!"
"You're the one dragging this conversation out."
"Wow, Mister Shoto Todoroki," She slowly smirks and the muscle in her right eye twitches. "You grow more annoying as the days go by, and it seems you don't take warnings seriously either. I wasn't lying when I said I would swat you."
"Just this once, I'll let you." He utters, and all her defenses fall away.
Her hand lowers and hangs limply at her side. The scowl on her face disappears and an expression of dismay takes its place. She tries to convince herself she heard him wrong. This is something she never would've expected.
Saying his apology and saying a thank you is the least he could do. He knows if he didn't say them now he never would've gotten around to it, and he also knows that this is the only way he'll stop feeling this remorse.
He wants to move on and put this behind him, even if he has to go so far as letting her hit him in order to do just that. There are more important things he should be focusing on rather than this little desire he has to make up for his repugnant behavior. After this, this feud of theirs will end and he'll be able to work towards his own ambition without her being a distraction for any longer than she already has.
"You say that as if I'm not capable of landing a solid hit on my own. Seriously," She starts walking towards him, her hair somewhat fallen over her face. "You're so dumb. When will you stop misjudging me?"
She comes to a stop only a couple of inches in front of him. Her silvery eyes gaze deeply into his heterochromia ones. They move, lingering over the scar on his face before getting lost in his hair. She raises her hand while rising onto the tips of her toes.
His eyes widen a notch when he feels her fingers in his hair on his left side. There is a staggering sensation in his chest and his lips press firmly together. What is she doing? He grows rigid and his eyes narrow.
"If you're going to offer to let me hit you, you should've done so outside. The way I want to hit you will definitely get me expelled." She begins with a lazy expression. "You shouldn't say things like that so lightly."
Tenderly, she lowers her hand and it falls away from his soft crimson locks. Between her fingers is an ivory flower petal—that same one from earlier. At some point it became lodged in his hair. She holds it in front of her and in a way so it blocks her left eye from his sight.
"I'll acknowledge your apology, but I won't accept it. There's really no need for you to say one. You never were the type to act without a motive, and that was just one motive I knew and understood." Gradually, her lips curve upwards into an amiable smile. "But, I'll accept your 'thank you' even though I should be the one to say just that."
She holds the flower petal out to him, and he takes it with hesitation. Her words are on replay in his head and the aftermath is potent. It's impossible for him to figure out how she could be so sympathetic after everything, just like he couldn't perceive how she could smile so easily back in their younger days.
"Why would you be thankful towards me?" He inquires earnestly, and she clasps her hands together behind her back. "Just yesterday you said you would 'forever resent' me. You're impossible to understand. Everything you say is contradicting."
"You're acting like you haven't been contradicting yourself. You say all these mean things then go out of your way to save me." She says, reminding him of what happened at U.S.J. "I'm having a hard time understanding you, too."
An unpleasant silence breaks out between them. They gaze at each other tenuously, almost as if they are suddenly shy. Hotaru looks off to the side for a moment while trying to ignore the warmness in her cheeks, while Shoto simply looks at the ground.
"A-Anyways," Hotaru stutters slightly, gathering the courage to look back at him. "I was acting stupid yesterday. I don't resent you. But, I don't exactly like you either. As for why I'm thankful towards you, well… I'll let you figure that out."
"Sounds like a waste of time." He says indifferently, obviously not planning on trying to figure it out.
"That's fine. In all honesty, I might just end up telling you myself one day. Until that day comes," She leans a bit closer to him with a smirk. "You don't exist to me."
Little does she know, he wants that just as much as she does. To take their minds off of each other, to focus on their own goals, to act as if they don't know each other… that's what they need. They can't forgive each other so easily and where they stand is the least of their concerns.
"Good." Shoto accepts that easily, and she smiles.
"Perfect. Well then, goodbye stranger." Hotaru waves in farewell.
He nods his head slightly and the two of them turn to go their separate ways. However, since they happen to be going to the same place, they end up walking to class together. Neither of them speak a word, and as they walk Shoto lets the flower petal slip from his fingers.
A tiny hand grabs a hold of the abandoned flower petal and stares harshly at the back of their heads. How they're walking side by side and how close they are to one another… that just won't do. Mineta trails after them like a zombie.
"...How dare you…"
•○●○•
"Hey, did you watch the news last night?" Hagakure asks excitedly, and Ojiro nods. "Did you see how everyone in class was on-screen for a second? I didn't stand out at all…"
Hagakure starts whining towards the end of her words, her not standing out being a recurring thing. Her invisible body just isn't meant to be on screen.
"That's true." Shoji agrees.
"It's hard to stand out looking like that, huh?" Ojiro says a little sheepishly, sweat forming on his temple.
"But man, all the channels made a big deal out of it." Kaminari folds his arms behind his head, leaning back in his seat with a smile. He looks back at a thoughtful Kirishima.
"I was surprised." Kirishima admits.
"Can you blame them?" Jiro joins in, ceasing from fiddling with her earphone jacks. She holds her hand out in a smart manner and her eyes shut. "The hero course that keeps pumping out pro heroes was attacked."
Sero suddenly lets out a heavy breath, making everyone look to him. He leans forward and folds his arms over his desk, slumping forward. Remembering the attack is exhausting to him.
"Who knows what would've happened if the teachers hadn't come when they did." Sero sighs in relief, then Mineta starts wailing with tears in his eyes while waving his fists everywhere.
"Stop that, Sero! Just thinking about it is making me wet myself—!"
"Shut up! Be quiet, scum!" Bakugo roars, making Mineta turn as white as a ghost. Although his yell is directed towards him only, Midoriya even grows pale in fright.
"But man, All Might was great." Sato smiles, punching the air. "He pushed back all those crazy strong villains!"
"Yes, his strength is worth wondering at." Tokoyami agrees.
Hotaru listens to her classmates as they talk about that incident and what was shown on the news, although not joining in. While they socialize she stares out the window. There's a cicada stuck to the other side of the glass. She sticks her tongue out as it as if to mock it.
"Hey, Taru-chan~!" A voice addresses her, making her look over.
It was Ashido who said her name. Her pink form is facing her from her seat at her desk, and there is a wide smile on her face. If the class group hug yesterday wasn't enough proof that everyone is starting to warm up to her, Ashido calling her "Taru-chan" definitely is.
"What is it?" Hotaru asks, tilting her head slightly like a curious puppy.
"You were actually a wanted villain for a bit after the incident, huh?" She questions, waving her index finger through the air idly. "What was that like?"
"Oh, yeah." Uraraka ponders to herself, looking over. "I'm a little curious too."
At this point, nearly all of her classmates are looking at her curiously. If it wasn't for Bakugo's glaring eyes, Mineta's perverted gaze, Aoyama's naturally odd stare, and the fact that Shoto hasn't even spared her a glance, she would deem them all interested in hearing her answer.
"What it was like…?" Hotaru murmurs to herself, resting her head against her balled up fist. "It wasn't much different than before."
"But," Asui brings her finger to her chin as she speculates. "Before there were no heroes actively searching for you."
"Yeah, that's true." Kaminari scrunches up his nose in thought. "Not many people knew Lightning Beast had a daughter, Pro Heroes especially."
"It must've been harder for you to get around." Sato states, and he's not wrong.
It was much easier for her to get around undetected before the incident. However, she still had to be careful before then. She couldn't use her quirk so carelessly. Since she takes after both of her well-known parents greatly in terms of her physical features, notably her eyes, she couldn't wander without caution.
They are speaking innocently, genuinely interested in what her villain life was like. Asui's and Kaminari's speculations aren't wrong at all. Not many Pro Heroes knew she existed, but that doesn't mean there wasn't someone searching for her from time to time. He came close to seizing her quite a couple times, too. Her hand falls into her lap, and before she knows it, her fingers are tightly gripping her skirt.
"Well, actually…" Hotaru starts to say, her voice gradually growing weaker. "There was one hero who…"
•
"You lead him right to us… Taru you wretched snake…!"
•
Her voice was so inaudible that only those sitting closest to her were able to actually hear. Shoto is the only one who knows just who she's talking about. As a result, his abusive childhood hits him full force, making his fingers curl into fists. He silently waits to hear what she has to say about his old man, but she doesn't say a word.
A good few seconds of silence go by, which makes Shoto finally look over at her. She's staring with wide eyes at the sleek top of her desk, sweat gliding down her pale face. Her silver orbs are glazed over as if she's recalling something. That look of fear and regret on her face… did something happen between her and his old man that he doesn't know about? His jaw grows tight.
"Everyone! Morning homeroom is about to start!" Iida suddenly comes charging into the room, his movements like a robot with his perfect posture. He comes to a stop behind the front podium, throwing out his arms dramatically. "Stop talking and take your seats!"
Thanks to Iida's over-dramatic entrance and the fact that he's the only one not in his seat, all attention is drawn away from Hotaru. She's thankful, because suddenly she can't find her voice. She stares out the window once more with a vacant expression, and Shoto battles the urge to talk to her even though she's supposed to be nonexistent to him.
Hotaru's fingers straighten out and rest against her thighs, no longer gripping her skirt and causing wrinkles. A frown is now on her face. She didn't mean to think so deeply about her past and let it get the better of her. Maybe she did just that because even now she's not so sure what to make of it. She holds back a sigh. How annoying.
She wishes Aizawa was fully recovered and here. She wonders what he would say about her childhood if she were to reveal it. He would probably give her some great and down to earth guidance.
"Morning."
"S-Sensei?!" Hotaru blurts, looking at Aizawa with wide eyes.
"Y-You're too much of a pro!" Kaminari stutters.
"So, you're alright, Sensei?!" Iida inquires loudly.
The whole class is in an uproar at this point. Aizawa, who just arrived, limps into the room slowly. Hotaru watches his movements. He's completely covered and bandages, most notably his face and arms. Why is he here? Is it even safe for him to be moving around like that? What if he re-injures himself somehow? She slowly stands up and raises her hand.
"Sensei, you should be resting." Hotaru speaks, her eyebrows knitting together in worry. "Don't push yourself..."
"My well-being doesn't matter." He dismisses her and everyone's concerns.
Hotaru slowly sits back down, glaring at him for saying that. He looks her way briefly, his eyes giving her a once over through the small opening of his bandages that allows him to see. Her glare falters and her lips part. Could he have been worried about her? He did witness her nearly die, after all. She gives him a closed eyed smile, clasping her hands together above her desk. Wow, he really is such a caring hero~!
That thought of hers comes to an instant halt when he glares at her. She straightens her posture and stares ahead straight-faced like a soldier, barely suppressing a quiver. Yes, he's an extremely caring hero who can read her like an open book, and he may or not be pissed at her.
"More importantly, the fight is not over yet." Aizawa looks away from her and stares the entire class down, making them all grow tense. However, his next words make everyone cheer. "The U.A. Sports Festival is drawing near."
Nearly everyone in the room is fired up about this event, and everyone immediately begins talking about how super cool it is. Hotaru can only stare at the ceiling and imagine. She definitely heard of it, but she can't say she knows what it is. She's dragged out of her imagination when Aizawa starts to explain what it is.
"Our sports festival is one of Japan's biggest events. In the past, the Olympics were called a festival of sports, and the whole country was crazy about them. As you know, with reductions in scale and population, they're now a shell of their former glory. And now, for Japan, what has taken over the place of those Olympics is the U.A. Sports festival."
"Of course," Yaoyorozu speaks up. "All the top heroes around the country will be watching." She holds up a single fist. "For scouting purposes!"
"After we graduate, it's typical to join a pro agency as a sidekick." Kaminari gives an excited thumbs up, while Hotaru's jaw slowly goes slack as her nerves skyrocket.
Wait a second. This sports event is that important? She also wasn't aware that you don't simply become a pro upon graduating. There's more to it? Joining a pro hero agency, scouting, and sidekicks… this is all new to her.
"A lot of people miss their chance to become independent after that and become eternal sidekicks, though." Jiro muses aloud, looking over at Kaminari. "Kaminari, I feel like you'd be one of them. Since you're dumb."
"Of course, joining a famous pro agency will get you more experience and popularity. Time is limited. If you expect to go pro, then the path to your future will open up at this event. One chance a year, a total of just three chances. No aspiring heroes can afford to miss this event. If you understand that, then don't slack off on your preparations!" Aizawa asserts.
"Yes, sir!" Everyone yells.
"Homeroom is dismissed." Aizawa announces and starts taking steps to leave.
"W-Wait I have a question!" Hotaru raises her hand desperately, looking completely lost.
"What is it?" Aizawa faces her.
"This sports event… I just don't get it." She begins in all seriousness, which earns her multiple raised eyebrows. "How does playing sports like soccer and water polo help us become pros? And why do pros recruit us based on that?"
It's so quiet she can clearly hear the cicada on the other side of the window making that annoying sound. But, why is it so quiet? Why is everyone staring at her so intensely? It's embarrassing and she doesn't like it one bit. Even Shoto's staring at her.
His eyes are somewhat wide in disbelief. Did she say something bad? Despite their earlier agreement to act as if neither of them exist, she looks at him desperately with red cheeks. Her lips part to question him, but seal themselves shut when he brings his hand over his mouth and looks off in the other direction, his shoulders quivering. She lets out a silent gasp. Is he…?
"Ha!" Kaminari cries out, waterfall tears falling from his eyes as he laughs extremely loud. "What are you talking about, Taru-chan?!"
"Water polo?!" Uraraka brings both hands over her mouth, muffling her intense laughter and kicking her legs.
Everyone's laughing and as a result her entire face turns red. Bakugo even snickers. She doesn't understand. All she asked was a question. She springs out of her chair, glaring feebly at everyone. She's trying to bring out her villain side, but she's too embarrassed.
"S-Stop laughing!" She yells. "What's so funny about asking a question?!"
"You're not being serious, are you?" Kirishima barely gets out between his laughs, banging his fist on his desk as he tries to catch his breath.
"If you are disrespecting the U.A. Sports Festival, it's not funny!" Iida exclaims, waving his arms at her robotically.
"W-Well…! Sensei was comparing it to the Olympics!" She begins, her fingers curling into her skirt. "So, it's like that... right?"
"She's serious." Shoji realizes with widened eyes.
"Wait, Aihara-san," Midoriya looks back at her with an agape mouth. "You really never seen the U.A. Sports Festival?"
"O-Of course not." She answers like it's obvious. "The one time I tried to my mom threw a knife at me."
At that revelation, it's quiet once again. Many horrified expressions greet her, and she sighs heavily, running her fingers through her hair in irritation. She doesn't understand why everyone is so shocked. That's normal for a villain household. What did they expect her home life to be like?
"Look, just answer the question…" She starts up again, although gradually trailing off when she realizes something. Aizawa is gone. Her eyelid twitches and she pushes her chair in, stomping towards the door with a huff. "I'll be back—oh, wait."
Midoriya looks at her with big eyes of surprise when she turns around, her hair and skirt flowing with her movements. She smiles brightly at him and stops right before his desk, making him lean back in his chair with a vivid blush.
"I didn't thank you for yesterday. Thank you a lot, Midoriya-kun." She holds her hand out to him. "If you need anything, please let me know. I'd be happy to be able to help you out one day, too."
"Y-Y-Y-Yes, o-of course!" He stutters, his face twisting in a way she would describe as embarrassment. It's a rather hideous expression. He grabs onto her hand for a friendly handshake, and Mineta screeches in jealousy.
After that, she gives a parting bow before walking out the door to hunt down Aizawa. Kaminari mutters to himself about how cute she is while Mineta grabs onto Midoriya's shoulders, shaking him back in forth in anger.
"How dare you touch my woman?!" He cries, and Yaoyorozu looks at him in disgust.
"How vulgar." She whispers to herself, sighing. "Aihara-san must have great fortitude to tolerate him…" She blinks when she hears a low voice and looks over at Shoto. "Did you say something, Todoroki-san?"
"No." He lies.
He doesn't want to repeat himself, and he didn't mean to say it out loud. It was nothing of any importance. Leaning back in his chair, he lowers his eyelids. He was only agreeing with her speculation.
•○●○•
"Aizawa-sensei," Hotaru opens the door to the teachers' lounge brazenly, her silver eyes narrowed as she locks onto him.
All Might, who's sitting at his desk, lets out a silent scream. The blood shooting out of his mouth makes Hotaru look in his direction with pursed lips. She blinks a few times, stepping fully into the room and letting the door shut behind her.
Such an angular face and long limbs. He looks like a zombie and the blood definitely makes him look ghoulish. She has one word for his appearance. Wicked. She points at the extremely boney blonde sitting at All Might's desk.
"Who's that?" She inquires, a bit apprehensive as he panics and chokes for some reason unknown to her. "S-Shouldn't he be in a hospital?"
"Don't mind him." Aizawa dismisses, his voice somewhat muffled by his wrappings. "He's…"
"All Might's…" Midnight trails off.
"Cousin." Present Mic finishes.
Hotaru slowly lowers her hand, staring at All Might with wide eyes. The four of them gaze at her in turmoil, hoping she accepts that. A few seconds of silence go by of Hotaru staring at All Might.
"His cousin, huh?" She murmurs to herself, tapping her index finger against her cheek. She didn't know he had a cousin, although it's only natural he would. "Well, now that you say that I can definitely see the resemblance. It's nice to meet you, sir."
"T-The pleasure is all mine." All Might waves at her as she bows in greeting.
"Anyways," She straightens up and struts towards Aizawa with a deep frown.
Aizawa stares at her blankly as she walks around his desk and comes to a stop by his chair. She's giving him a stubborn glare and her lips are pressed together firmly. He turns to face her.
"What do you want? Coming into the teachers' lounge without an appointment is a violation of school rules."
"I'm sorry." Hotaru whispers, bowing to him apologetically.
"I'll let it slide just this once—" He begins tiredly, and she shakes her head.
"N-No, I mean I'm sorry I wasn't able to save you." She raises one of her hands towards her face, covering it even though her hair is already blocking it from his sight. "I'm really, really, sorry."
She's apologizing for not being able to take down Nomu, huh? Aizawa lets out a bothersome sigh and gets ready to speak until he realizes droplets of moisture falling from her face. His eyes widen a notch and she snivels.
"I-I know you told me to stay on the sidelines and that I'm not a hero. But, w-when I seen you in trouble I was so scared. I was so scared during the entire thing. I-I tried my best, but I still couldn't do anything…!"
"Hey."
"I thought you were going to d-die! And I didn't want you to die. Signing death certificates or not, you don't deserve to die…! So, I couldn't just watch and do nothing…!"
"Calm down." The muscle in Aizawa's eye twitches in annoyance. She's just rambling at this point and he can't get a word in.
"You're m-my favorite hero. I owe you so much. You saved me…!" She snivels, raising her head and revealing her snobby face. He cringes at her giant blotchy tears and runny nose. "S-So, Sensei, please forgive me—!"
"Aihara."
The way he says her name makes her straighten up. She grips the collar of her shirt with both hands, sniveling. Her shoulders quiver occasionally. He gazes up at her deliberately.
"Stop crying." He says, and she continues to snivel helplessly. Her glossy eyes are clearly questioning him. If his entire arms weren't confined in casts, he would pinch the bridge of his nose. "Take in a deep breath."
Everyone watches her as she does just that. Her eyelids lower as she does. Slowly but surely, she's starting to calm down. Her quivers dying down is proof of that.
"Good. Now release it." Aizawa directs, and she complies. Once her tears slow and her snivels stop, he speaks. "You didn't do anything wrong. Save your apology. You should be proud of yourself if anything."
"Proud of myself your letting you get squashed like a b-bug?" She whimpers, rubbing at her eyes and oblivious to the annoyance Aizawa displays at that description. Present Mic coughs.
"No." Aizawa grumbles, making her eyes widen. "You saved your classmate from death and bravely stood up against your deranged parents. Even though the end result wasn't the best, it was satisfactory. You should be proud of the obstacles you've overcome. But..."
His dark and bloodshot eyes glare at her so severely she flinches. She shrinks back slightly and trembles like a frightened puppy. How to breathe becomes a mystery to her as it feels like something heavy has been dropped onto her shoulders.
"...You were stupid to get mixed up in my fight. What made you think you could take that thing on? In that situation you should've taken the initiative to get yourself to safety. As your teacher, I'm very disappointed in you."
"A-Aizawa-kun…" All Might joins in hesitantly, holding his hands out in front of him apprehensively. "That's a little harsh…"
"However," Aizawa sighs once more, saying an unexpected bunch of words. "More than anything, I'm proud of you."
He recalls exactly what happened. Although her actions were reckless and she was suffering from injuries from her own father, she didn't think twice about jumping in to help him. She acted quickly despite her fear and gave everything she had from the get-go. Not many could do what she did.
Upon coming here, she had to make many choices. Although she had on the mask of a villain, beneath that mask was a fearful and lost child—a child who knew what she wanted but needed help in order to obtain it.
Even though the amount of time she's been his student has been short, watching and helping her throughout her journey so far has felt like an eternity. She's grown considerably, but she still has a long way to go. As her teacher he's determined to guide her and has lofty expectations he expects her to meet.
"Just don't do anything like that again." He turns away from her, obviously dismissing her. "Technically that was also a violation of rules that comes with strict consequences. You're lucky to be alive and even more fortunate I'm not punishing you properly."
Without warning, he suddenly feels arms wrapped around him. His eyes nearly bulge out of his bandages when he turns his head, seeing Hotaru's face buried in his scarf. She's hugging him, taking advantage of the fact he's bandaged up and can't counter.
"Get off." He growls.
"Bravo!" Present Mic claps loudly at the scene before him, and All Might grins.
"Youth is so wonderful~!" Midnight squeals happily and brings her hands over her red cheeks.
"Get off!"
Hotaru snickers, releasing Aizawa from her surprise embrace with a smile. She couldn't help herself, and she knew if she didn't do it now she would probably never get the chance to do so. He looks so angry with his narrowed eyes and that popping vein, but it was definitely worth it.
"Thank you for everything, Sensei." She straightens up, getting rid of the remainder of wet trails from her cheeks with her fists. "You're the best."
"If that's all you wanted to say, then leave." Aizawa turns away from her with a scowl.
"Actually, that's not the reason I came here." She admits, clasping her hands together. "You never answered my question about the sports festival."
"You were serious?"
Now it's Hotaru's turn to look irritated. Did he not take her question seriously like everyone else? He thought she was joking? She crosses her arms over her chest. Just how much of a fool did she make herself to be?
"Yes, I was serious!" She looks off to the side, glaring out the nearby window. "I really don't know what it is. It shouldn't be so shocking. I was raised by villains to be a villain. Watching anything hero related was taboo."
"Even so, that's still shocking." Midnight blinks in surprise, walking over with her hands on her hips. "The sports festival is monumental. To sum it up, it's a chance for students to showcase their abilities in different competitions."
"Oh, it's not your average sports?" Hotaru murmurs with wide eyes and Midnight nods in confirmation, which makes her let out a relieved breath. "So, it's nothing too physical?"
"It's all physical." Present Mic reveals, making Hotaru look over at him with an agape mouth. "That's the whole point! To show off your strength, speed, endurance, your quirk, all of that!"
"Pro heroes from all over the country will be watching. So, it's very important that you make sure you prepare accordingly beforehand so you can get good offers." All Might joins in.
Hotaru slouches at their words. This isn't good at all. She's pretty confident with her quirk, although she can definitely work on controlling her speed trick a little more. However, when it comes to strength and endurance… She recalls her poor results from Aizawa's quirk apprehension test. As if reading her mind, he finally speaks up.
"Looks like you have a lot of training to do." He states.
"Do I have enough time?" She inquires with a pout, deeply worried. "When is the sports festival?"
"It's a month from now. Judging from your current state…" Aizawa turns his head and studies her. "...If you start your training now you might improve before then."
"'Might?'" Hotaru scoffs. "Have you forgotten just who I am? I am the daughter of Lightning Beast and Two-Face. I'm sure I'll be able to improve big time. Just you wait." She jabs a finger at him. "I consider myself a lazy person, but I'll work hard starting now. This wouldn't be the first time I've trained rigorously."
"Speaking of your parents," Aizawa suddenly says, making her tense. "Have you heard from them?"
"No…" She whispers, staring at her feet. "Not a word."
"Also, your father mentioned you protecting Todoroki. Was that your goal from the beginning? It's baffling since you two don't get along."
"I must say, I'm curious as well." All Might mutters to himself, making Hotaru look over at him with a raised brow. Why would he be curious? He starts coughing blood. "I-I mean I'm curious because the rivalry Lightning Beast and Endeavor have is very intense! It makes sense that it would be the same between their children!"
She understands why they are curious, especially since the beans were spilled at U.S.J. Her and Shoto's relationship is very complicated and goes way back, and no one but themselves knows about it.
The distance between them has grown even deeper and now she's partially to blame. Yet, for once she doesn't mind this rift. Perhaps she desires it, or rather she just merely doesn't care anymore. She simply has no more feelings left towards him and she no longer sees the need to protect him. It's no surprise to her that this growing rift has become noticed.
Although she claims that, she stares at her hand that weaved through Shoto's soft tresses. In that moment, it felt like the rift closed. It felt like they were sitting at the park again. She lets out a breath. Why is it so hard to hate and forget him? Why did his muffled laugh, make her feel so light?
She glances at the four adults in the room. It's just them in here. If she tells them her story, could they help her sort out her thoughts? Help her atone? Will her regrets lessen? She hopes All Might's cousin is as wise as All Might himself.
They probably won't look at her the same way again after this. But, they'll get the answers to their many questions she's sure they have, and she'll get some answers as well. It'll be a win-win. And, if it's in front of them, she doesn't mind speaking of her past out-loud.
"Say, Sensei," Hotaru begins, looking at Aizawa with a smile. She plops down in the chair next to his desk, sitting on her knees. "Would you like to hear my story?"
"Your story?" He repeats blandly, and she nods.
"Yes. The story of Hotaru Aihara. From beginning till now." She folds her arms over the backrest and leans forward. "What do you say?"
"Yeah!" Present Mic exclaims from across the room, and Hotaru sweat-drops with a cat-like expression when he runs over. All Might's already nearby and so is Midnight, so they don't need to come closer to listen.
"Okay," Hotaru holds up her index finger in warning. "Treat this as top-secret information, got it? I haven't even told Daichi this. In fact, you four are about to be the first to hear this story."
Her eyelids lower, and she can easily feel the warmth from the sunlight gleaming through the window caress her face. The organ in her chest is pounding away. Keeping this to herself for so long almost feels like a burden. She's nervous and eager, doubting this whole thing already. She just needs to stop thinking. Her eyelids raise.
"This is the story of how me and Shoto became the best of friends then the worst of enemies. This is the story of my childhood, how I was raised, and why I was even born. I'm going to flat out warn you right now that it was unpleasant, but maybe not to the degree you're thinking. My mom and I clashed from time to time, but my father and I actually had a very stable relationship. He was a bad man, but as a father he was ideal until a certain point."
She locks eyes with Aizawa, her lips curving upwards into a shrewd smirk. He's listening silently and intently like everyone else. Her fingers unconsciously play with her hair, wondering what kind of reaction she'll get out of him after this secret.
"Can you guess when he stopped being a good dad?" She questions.
"When Endeavor 'killed' him?" Aizawa guesses rather confidently, and she nods.
"That's right." She rests her head against her folded arms. "It's no secret that Endeavor almost killed him. But, here's an even bigger secret."
The air in the room grows chilly and Hotaru makes lightning dance across her fingertips. A flock of birds fly across the sky just outside, making shadows pass over her form. What she says next makes All Might choke and cough blood, Midnight gasp, Present Mic shrill, and Aizawa's eyes grow even wider than before.
"Did you know that I helped Endeavor 'kill' my own father?"
~ Next Chapter Sneak Peek:
❤•○●○•❤
Confrontation
❤•○●○•❤
Silver clashes against turquoise. His flames match the golden sky, and her expression matches the approaching dark night. Her nails are digging into her palms and she's trembling furiously. It's taking everything in her to not lunge at this man.
"You can say whatever you want regarding how evil of a villain my old man is. That's something you and I can both agree on. But, I don't think you have the right to judge his worth as a father. In fact, I bet you could've learned a lot from him. Don't you dare talk as if you are the best dad in the world. I'm not dumb. I may not know the details, but after seeing Shoto all these years later," Her teeth bare. "You're the worst possible man a child could have as a father."
"Right, you don't know the details. So, neither do you, a villain, have the right to judge my worth."
"Endeavor...!" She growls lowly.