Hello! Another update for you guys! Hope you enjoy ^-^

It's the weekend but Sho and Bakugo still have extra training to attend. They get a couple days off here and there, but this is not one of them. I tag along because frankly, everyone else is busy, or studying for things I've already had plenty of time to crack–having extra theory time occasionally pays off. I'm even ahead of Momo in a couple areas. Handing her my notes to refer to was a surreal experience. And not likely one I'll ever get to repeat.

I wander between Sho and Bakugo, neither of them being particularly happy about missing out on the Work Studies thing either, but Sho at least isn't seething with rage. Bakugo on the other hand keeps hunching his shoulders whenever it's even mentioned. I was bitter, but at least I internally whinge. I sling my arm through Sho's and put my head on his shoulder, yawning as we go along the path to meet the taxi.

The third time Bakugo growls, I use my quirk to tug on his tie and make him stumble.

He snarls. "Hey! The fuck you doing?"

"Stop grunting. We get it, you're annoyed."

He rolls his eyes. "Why you even coming to this crappy training stuff anyway?"

"I fancied helping you guys out. Plus, it'll help me build my own quirk's stamina back up too, and in a controlled environment." I grin at his scowl and flap his tie against his grimace.

He deflates. "Yeah, guess that makes sense. You got stuff to catch up on too."

Sho nods. "We all have to catch up one way or the other. Though you do at least have your license, Alex."

"True! So why not have someone qualified around to help out?" I waggle my brows at Bakugo and he scuffs the ground as we get into the school taxi. I straighten his tie. "I really do just wanna help, Bakugo."

"Gee, what a fuckin' surprise." He nudges my shoulder and then lounges in the back seat, taking up all three as he lays there and stares out the window. "Guess your weird quirk might come in handy for trying my stuff. Give me some targets. You might not be totally useless."

"Golly thanks." I flick his forehead as I do up my belt, sitting beside Sho, glad to lean into his warm shoulder as we head down the road. It's definitely getting colder outside. "How about you, Sho? Think I can give you a hand?"

"Force against either my ice or flames would no doubt be good for stamina. But mainly I want to practise using both sides." He squeezes my hand. "Having you there will be good though. Vary the company, for one thing."

The back of our chairs are kicked. "Is that some shitty dig at me Icy Hot?"

Sho smirks. "Of course not, Bakugo."

"Fuckin' right."

I laugh. "You two been getting all chummy as you train?"

Bakugo snorts. "Yeah, nearly made friendship bracelets last week, eh Icy Hot?"

"Indeed, but we struggled to agree on a colour scheme."

I laugh harder, finding it oddly easy to imagine them sitting there, cross legged, braiding twine and giggling. Maybe my painkillers are kicking in harder than usual.

Sho tucks my hair back. "How's the brace?"

"It's fine yeah, I'm getting more used to it now, so it feels less like a corset." I snort and pat the reinforced band under my t-shirt. I'm not in uniform because I don't need to be, so sod it. "It's really helping. I should go and thank Hatsume properly."

"She'd likely not recall who you are." Sho smirks. "But I'm glad it's helping, you seem to be moving easier in general. It's encouraging."

"Thanks." I grin and tap the end of his nose.

Bakugo grumbles. "If you two start makin' out I'm throwin' up."

Bakugo fires small plumes at me and I block them. Over and over, like a scattershot crescendo of flame; left, right, up, down. It's intense. By the time the three minute timer goes off we're both panting, and we slump to the floor chuckling, both being too stubborn to tap out before the timer. It's our fifth set in a row. Sho is building on his simultaneous use of both sides, and he's doing brilliantly, but I'm more distracted with how good he looks doing it. Like, damn. I dunno if it's the sheer power, or the lighting from his flames but it's like watching a magazine cover come to life.

I lay down and stare at the training arena's roof, heart pounding, but thankfully no pain appears in my spine.

Our classmates will be trying to figure out where they can apply for their Work Studies. With all the restrictions being put into place due to the shitstorm of our world, it's hard to figure out which agencies are even allowed to take on students. It makes sense to be cautious, we're far from out of danger from the League etc. but I'm sure it's still a headache for those applying. Midoryia has headed into town with Mirio to try and get into Sir Knight Eye's agency. I don't know much about the guy beyond him having a heavy Accountant vibe. I hope Midoryia gets in, he had this determination in his eyes when he mentioned it–I think there's an old connection to All Might, or at least that seemed to be the case somewhere in his nervously excited rambling. I hope he gets it. That kid deserves every single opportunity.

"Ready for another go?" Bakugo calls and I haul myself up, rolling my shoulders and readying my stance. "I was thinking one big shot this time."

"Sure thing." I concentrate and nod when I'm ready to go.

The light builds in his hand and he grits his teeth, needing to focus hard in order to build a plume rather than immediately release. He's getting more and more creative with his quirk, and it's exciting. Mainly because it means Bakugo is starting to think outside his box–which previously I would have wagered was impossible. The light sparks and I activate my quirk, the light dances against my balloon of force, blossoming into golds and oranges, pressing harder and harder. I hold steady and bow my head, the pressure like someone wrapping a duvet too tight around my body. Breathe. Just breathe.

"Release up, okay?" He yells and I nod, feeling the pressure rise as he alters his aim and I follow suit till we're aiming at the high ceiling. "Release!"

I do so and go onto one knee as dizziness creeps over me. The explosion bursts into the air and the heat is immense. We did it though, it worked. I reckon if me and Bakugo ever end up on a team in the professional world, we could create some seriously deadly combo attacks. I wonder if he's considered that. Probably not, he'll want to work alone, right?

A bottle of water nudges my shoulder and I take it. Bakugo sits next to me, panting hard himself, downing nearly half his bottle in one go.

"All good with your back?"

I give a thumbs up. "Yeah. Just woozy. It's a lot of pressure on a small area."

"Mm. Well it's y'know… a big help and stuff so… uh…"

"'Thanks' is the word you're looking for." I snort and he shoves my shoulder. "Glad to help though, you're really pushing yourself."

"Gotta, nothing else for it right now after fuckin' up my exam." He sighs and sips the water, eyes focused on Sho as he continues to train.

"You do realise that it isn't your quirk that–"

"I know, I know." He closes his eyes. "It's my shitty attitude. I'm an asshole, gimme time. I'm getting there."

I grin. "Of course you are, like you're gonna take anything lying down."

"Damn right." He leans back. "I spoke to Deku."

I blink. "Oh. And?"

He shrugs. "Nerd was more concerned with muttering to himself, kept assuming I was dyin' or some shit, but I think it got through to him."

"How'd it feel?" I fiddle with the label on my bottle, simply to avoid staring at him too much.

Bakugo sighs. "Good. Like a big weight was off my shoulders. So yeah… thanks."

I grin and wink. "Any time. I should have recorded that…"

He rolls his eyes. "Yeah, yeah. You got any idea who you would've wanted to go to if you could do the Work Study thing?"

"Nice tangent." I snort, but when he glares at me, I just shrug. "I'd have wanted to work with my Dad, I think. I reckon the Underground scene is going to be more my thing anyway. The rankings and different agencies… it's all so bright and overwhelming. I'd prefer to tackle this life like he's done, getting the work done but in the shadows where the fucking cameras can't reach me." I chuckle but Bakugo is still frowning. "What?"

"Just surprises me, that's all."

"Everyone keeps saying that." I draw patterns in my bottle's condensation. Do I really seem like such a glory whore? I wasn't keen on the idea of the spotlight before, but since the USJ and Kamino, I'm even less keen. Fair enough my experience of the spotlight has been a bit skewed, but I can't help but be influenced by it. I've been studied, criticised, poked at, and I'm only just sixteen. It's so messed up.

Bakugo clicks his tongue. "Probably because you seem the type more suited to the main stage."

"Being an Underground Hero doesn't make you sidelined."

He shrugs. "Your Dad's a good Hero, don't get me wrong, he gets shit done and doesn't care about the press. Better than brown-nosing. But… Yeah you're similar to him, but you're like… I dunno, louder?"

"Shinier." Sho says as he walks over, winking at me and then smirking when Bakugo looks confused. "It's what she used to call the Pro Heros when she was a kid, called them 'shiny'."

I purse my lips against a laugh. "Yeah, when Dad found me, I wasn't sure he was really a Pro because he was so 'un-shiny'." I snort at my past self.

Bakugo shakes his head. "So you've been weird the whole time."

"Of course I have. But still… I can't say I see myself now as particularly shiny."

Bakugo frowns. "It's a fuckin' weird way of putting it, but I think I get it. Shiny. Weird. But yeah, you seem… shinier than your Dad. Meant to be loud, heard, seen."

Sho raises a brow. "I think that's a compliment, Alex. Good thing you're sitting down."

"I can still swoon from fright down here." I laugh, throwing my hand to my forehead dramatically. Bakugo grumbles to himself. "What agency would you have gone to then, Grumpy?"

"Dunno. Can't exactly apply to Best Jeanist again, he's still on leave after Kamino."

I wince slightly, the splatter of blood in the news pictures the next day being quite iconic now. I hadn't seen it at the time, there was too much going on. But clearly Jeanist was lucky to survive.

I nod. "Yeah, I haven't been keeping up with his recovery, I admit."

"He'll be back. Too proud to do anything else." Bakugo rolls his eyes. "Wouldn't be 'proper' to bow out so easily."

I'm glad some of the teachings from Internships stuck, even if begrudgingly.

I nudge Sho. "What about you? Would you have gone to Endeavour, again?"

"Not sure. He's been clingy recently anyway, being in the same agency building might have been a bit too much to handle." Sho sighs. "But I guess it would have been my first choice, yeah. Shitty Father, decent Hero."

My phone buzzes.

Midoryia: [Alex! You were right! I got in!]

I can only imagine how many times he had to re-type that due to shaking hands.

Me: {Well done! Told you he'd have you on board, especially with Mirio in your corner. When do you start?}

Midoryia: [Next week! It was after a bit of persuading though… he also doesn't seem to really like me and… well there's kinda a complication? Can't really talk about it over text though, can I talk to you later? When you come back from training?]

Complication?

Me: {I think we'll be here for a few more hours. Shall I swing by your room once we're done?}

Midoryia: [Please! Only if you have time though, don't wanna interrupt your weekend or anything.]

Me: {Don't be daft, I always have time for you. I'll see you later. And again, well done!}

I put my phone away. "That's Midoryia into an agency."

"Which?" Bakugo asks between his teeth, loosening after counting to ten in his head.

"Sir Knight Eye. The one that looks like an accountant."

Sho purses his lips. "I hadn't noticed that before, and now I will never unsee it."

"You're welcome!" I cheer, throwing my arms up. "You wanna practise some ice projectiles?"

He nods and helps me up. "Let's head over there. You good to train alone for a bit, Bakugo?"

He nods and finishes his water. He's getting better at not flying off the handle whenever there's good news for Midoryia, but I know it takes a lot of mental effort. Still, he's trying. Small steps.

Sho creates tiny ice spikes and fires them at me. It's much the same as with Bakugo's scatter shot, but the force behind it feels different. With Bakugo's flames it's like viscous water, thick and hard to pinpoint. With Sho's ice it's hard, sharp points like needles if I get it wrong. A couple of times this happens, and I wince, but we have a colour code system in place. And I'm still green. I'm being careful, but the odd pinch against my quirk isn't something to worry about, that's just training.

We carry on well into the afternoon, and I send Midoryia a text as we get back into the taxi to head homewards. Bakugo and Sho are comparing notes on the exam retake that's a while away still, but I can understand them wanting to be prepared. They're working well together, despite their teasing earlier. It's encouraging. Both of them could do with some work in the teamwork area, so it's heartening to see them bond. Especially when they also seem to be actually enjoying it. Dare I say… they're becoming friends? My goodness. Such scandal.

As we pull up outside the dorms, Midoryia is standing waiting for us. Oh boy, he's really thinking himself into a corner over whatever this is, isn't he? Saves me looking for him, I guess.

I get out and kiss Sho on the cheek. "Gonna have a chat with Midoryia, you go ahead."

"Do you want some tea? I was going to grab a shower first."

I grin. "Thanks, some peppermint would be great. See you in the common area."

Midoryia waves and hops between his feet, never still, always smiling and fidgeting. The other two head inside, Bakugo barking something at Sho before they disappear inside the dorm building. Me and Midoryia start to wander round our dorm's small garden area.

"Do you need to sit down after training?" Midoryia fusses. "I don't want to cause you a strai–"

"I'm good, moving will help loosen it off actually. Now c'mon, what's happened at this agency? Do I need to go and beat someone up?" I chuckle and then he goes quiet and I slow my pace. "Midoryia?"

"Uh… N-No you don't need to beat anyone up, of course not. Knight Eye is a professional, and was totally professional about what he said. But I uh… Well… that is…"

I nudge his arm. "Big breath Midoryia, no need to rush. Just tell me what's happened."

And then he manages to spit it out. The coldness from Sir Knight Eye, the story of how he intended Mirio to be All Might's successor, how he doubted Midoryia was worthy of the power. The test in his offices, the needless jumping through hoops and apparent lack of concern for what All Might wanted to do with his own damn power. By the time Midoryia is done I'm ready to call for a taxi to head for that agency and kick Knight Eye in the face–though on second thoughts, he's so lanky and tall I'd likely be better off aiming lower. How dare he demean Midoryia so much?

"Alex? Don't go punch him or anything." Midoryia laughs and scratches the back of his head. "It makes sense that he would have some reservations about me."

"Yeah but there's no need to be a dick about it." I sigh and scuff the grass. "I can see why you wanted to talk though, your head must have been ready to explode by the time we got back. I'm sorry it took so long. We had to take a couple extra breaks due to my back."

"It's fine! It gave me time to think on things anyway and… Yeah it sucks that Knight Eye needs so much convincing, but this gives me a chance to see how I measure up to someone who isn't All Might or my friends. Knight Eye doesn't believe in me right now… But maybe if I can change that, it'll all work out?"

I grin. "If?"

He blinks. "Huh?"

I laugh. "Midoryia, as if you couldn't get someone to believe in you. Obviously you did something right already, or else he wouldn't have allowed you into the agency at all."

"I guess…"

I put my arm around his shoulders. "You inspire people all the time, of course you'll convince him."

"You seem so sure."

I flick his forehead. "Because I know you, and can see plain as day how much you've inspired most of our class, me included."

He blushes, of course. "I uh… well I…"

I squeeze softly. "You'll do great. Just be you, and it'll all fall into place."

"Hey Alex?"

"Mm?"

"How about you call me Izuku? Seems weird you're so formal with me at times."

"Sure thing Izuku, just became a habit. Has talking this out, helped? Can't say I've supplied much insight, but I know these things can be helped just by airing them out."

"A lot, yeah." He grins. "How was training? Is your brace helping?" He looks like he wants to take notes, but I think that's just the passive fascination he has in the world. Like this guy could fail to inspire anyone. And if he did? Someone needs to check Sir Knight Eye for a functioning heart.

I pat the brace under my t-shirt. "Yeah it's doing a lot of good. The breaks we took earlier were just a precaution. This thing is really getting me back on my feet."

"That's so good to hear. I know you were getting frustrated about it all."

"Understatement." I snort. "I really hope your Work Study goes well for you Izuku, I wish I was going on one so badly."

"You'd have gone to your Dad, right?"

"Yeah. I'd have learned so much." I sigh and close my eyes, taking a second to enjoy the sunshine. "I might be able to persuade him into letting me have a go on his patrols sometime soon though. Once my back's calmed down."

"You would look like a proper Pro duo." Izuku chuckles.

I smirk. "Couple of monochromatic weirdos hanging out in back alleys like bats, match made in heaven my friend."

We laugh on our way back into the dorm via the large glass doors into the kitchen area. Everyone is milling around, talking about Work Studies or what they did today. I guess it's going to be on everyone's mind for a while. From the sounds of it though, the restrictions are being a real pain.

I accept my tea from Sho once he's reappeared, hair still damp.

We sit with Izuku by the sofas, but I notice Sho's shoulders are slightly slumped.

I nuzzle him. "You okay? Did you strain something at training?"

He shakes his head. "It's just that the distance between me and Bakugo, and the rest of the class, just keeps getting wider. We've got to catch up, and soon."

Bakugo, sitting in the next chair over, huffs and crosses his arms.

I look around, and yeah most people are talking about progress, but mainly it seems to be confusion. Then again, I suppose what Sho is really meaning is the license part. Even if it takes some time to figure out, our classmates can all get out there and do their work for real, in the streets. I can even do that, once I'm recovered. I squeeze Sho's arm and he gives a tiny smile. He knows I believe he'll catch up, but his worries are still valid.

Sero sighs as talk of the restrictions comes back round. "We can't really blame them though. Unlike the internships we'll be directly involved, so if anything were to go wrong then–"

"Then the pros would have to take responsibility for whatever happened." Dad drawls from the lobby, having appeared as usual from nowhere. Not even a smoke bomb or anything. My friends look to me, like they're annoyed I gave no warning, like I have some kind of tracking device on him. I just hold up my hands. I've tried before, he always finds them.

"Oh uh, hi Mr Aizawa!" Kaminari always sounds so uneasy near Dad.

Dad shrugs. "Only pros who are the real deal will take on rookies like you guys knowing the risks involved." He cast his gaze towards Tokoyami, and so does everyone else. "Tokoyami, looks like you've got an offer from one of them. Hawks has invited you to work with him."

"I'm honoured to accept."

Dad nods. "I'll sort out the paperwork. He also offered a space to you, Alex, but I obviously had to let him know your circumstances. But you did get an offer." He smirks at me and I hide behind my tea, blushing.

I can't deny, it's a big weight off my mind to know someone was at least interested. I've not been written off as a cripple by everyone but our own faculty.

Sho sighs. "We've really gotta catch up."

Bakugo snarls. "Will you stop saying that?"

Dad continues. "Oh and Kirishima, apparently Amajiki from the big three wants to talk to you about something."

Kirishima looks bamboozled. But then it seems like Ura and Tsu also have places looking for them, Hado wants to talk to them. They're all set to be high flyers by the time this is all over. I know Sho and Bakugo are being held back by their lack of license, but that's just paperwork. I worry that my own setbacks are going to be a lot harder to recover from. I guess it's something we can't really measure until after the fact. More waiting.

Kirishima heads out right away with Ura and Tsu, none of them having the patience to wait until the next day. Makes sense really. Personal invitations from the Big Three? That's a big deal. I wish them luck as they head out the front door.

Sho slumps. "We've really really–"

"JUST SHUT UP!" Bakugo bellows.

SHIGARAKI POV

Standing outside the oversized doors, he scratched at his neck, waiting to be let in. He'd allow another fifteen seconds before just destroying the door. Usually he would have just done it, but there was a long game to consider. Master had wanted to use this Yakuza group, so they had to be of some use. The Chisaki guy had at least come through with the research, understanding Alex's Endurance quirk better meant it could be better applied to future Nomu designs. At least, that was what Master had said. But now they had to think bigger. The Yakuza were dead in the water, but still had talent. Not to mention a base and money resources. It would be foolish to ignore them entirely–no matter how much Shigaraki wanted to.

Until no longer useful, the League could make use of these old school fools. The fact they had endured so long had to mean something. Determination, if nothing else. Or just stubbornness. Whatever it was, Shigaraki would use it, especially if it meant taking down irritations like Alex and her little UA friends. Sending pawns from the Yakuza to do that would be particularly convenient. In his message, Chisaki had mentioned Alex being part of his plans, so it was worth discussing regardless. Master wanted her power, sure. But right now, Shigaraki was in charge, and he just wanted to make her pay.

The door opened.

Shigaraki slumped onto the sofa and lounged, trainers on the table, ignoring the weird glare from behind the plague mask. Talk about trying too hard. Chisaki droned on about this and that, making a couple stupid remarks and once again holding up the idea of being somehow superior. It made Shigaraki want to reach out and disintegrate them all, perhaps even the whole building. But patience was needed. The long game was what mattered.

He cleared his throat. "Look, all bullshit aside, what was this plan about Alex you mentioned? Your work with her blood was finished, I thought? Or have you been holding out on us to buy some time?"

Chisaki sighed and rolled his eyes. "No, I haven't been withholding information. I've simply deduced another means of making her of use to you. Perhaps both of us."

Shigaraki leaned forward. "Well I'm still here. Spit it out."

"I considered attempting to develop her Endurance? It would allow me to do more tests and perhaps have the quirk better developed for whenever it's needed, or wanted, by your League."

Shigaraki tilted his head. "And you would do that, how?"

"Break her."

"Go on…"

"Again and again, forcing the quirk to keep up. All for One, when he first contacted me, talked about the issue of Nomu going brainless when having extra quirks forced into their bodies, he seemed to want to rectify that. He seemed to think it was the human body's way of protecting itself."

"And?"

"Well, if I test out forcing quirks into Alex… We could investigate the results. And develop her endurance alongside."

Shigaraki chuckled. "You could just as easily kill her."

"Is that something you're worried about?"

Shigaraki lounged again. "Not particularly. I guess this idea would make all this waiting around a little more productive. But. I don't want you sneaky shits doing something behind our backs, so I propose a couple of my own members come here so I can hear regular reports."

Chisake waved down his subordinate who got in a rather angry flap about the suggestion. The boss seemed to have his eye on the bigger picture as well. Too bad, there was only room for one super villain in that picture, and Shigaraki had no plans on not being at the top. He would see the world into the new era of chaos, not this plague mask freak.

"All right." Chisaki stood up. "Send over a couple of your agents and I'll even use them in the abduction, deal?"

"And what'll you do with her once you're finished with your work?"

Chisaki raised a brow. "What do you want done with her? She means nothing to me other than a test subject. You seem to have a personal interest in her fate."

Alex on the end of a string. Already broken, compliant, withered to a base need for survival. It could make her malleable enough to be persuaded into line. It could mean Master's original intention for her to be by Shigaraki's side to help, could still occur. Break a Hero and what do you get? A Villain. Dabi would be pleased, though perhaps not about the damage done in order to get her to that point. But Dabi needn't be informed of everything. He could just be there to scrape Alex off the floor in the end, the big brother swooping in to save her, to bring her around all the easier. Perfect. Maybe.

Shigaraki stood and made for the door. "If you manage to keep her alive, I'd appreciate the chance for a little revenge on that little rat, yes."

They would have to keep Dabi in the dark. If they couldn't bring her around, it would be time to just do away with her. Shigaraki respected his Master's intentions, but at some point, it had to be accepted that Alex would not turn. Or was that just impatience getting the better of Shigaraki again? It was his most pressing fault so far. One he intended to tackle. He was not above learning, after all.

At the door, Shigaraki looked back. "Any of my guys get wind of funny business and we're done here, got it Yakuza?"

"Loud and clear, League of Villains."

ALEX POV

I keep fidgeting. Sho takes my hand and kisses the back of it, perfectly calm and collected like always. We're in a taxi heading to the hospital, and I'm about to meet his mother for the first time. I may be panicking. My hair is all over the place, this jumper looks so stupid and my skinny jeans look way too casual. And what was I thinking with these combat-looking boots? She's gonna think I'm a thug. Or a slob. Or a bit of both! A thuggy, slob wench who has no place dating her lovely son–

"We're here, you ready?"

Ready to jump in the taxi's boot and ask the driver to take me back to the Dorms and leave me by the building where they keep the bins? Hell yes I am...

I smile. "Sure!"

He helps me out of the taxi and then kisses the back of my hand again once the car's pulled away. "There's really no need to be nervous. She's going to adore you."

"I think you may have a tiny bit of bias, Sho." I squeeze his hand and we fall into step together, heading inside. He knows where he's going of course. I hold onto him for dear life.

When it comes to Endeavour, I couldn't care less about his opinion, he could go throw himself into a dustbin for all I cared and burn with the rest of the trash. But Sho's mother is entirely different. She sounds so kind, like she has fought so hard for so long to keep it together for her family. Her opinion really matters.

Sho knocks on the door and we wait until a soft voice calls out. She sounds so delicate. Am I going to break her? Keep it together Alex, it's fine, it's just his mother. It's fine. She's just a person.

We enter and my whole body goes tense.

She turns from the window and smiles, looking like an angel as she's bathed in the afternoon sunshine, white hair falling softly to her shoulders. She looks so tranquil. I stumble forward with Sho and he places a hand on my back whilst making introductions, like he knows I might bolt.

"Mother, this is Alex, my girlfriend. Alex, this is my mother."

I hold my hand out when she reaches for me, and we shake, dipping heads as well. Sho then brings me a seat and then himself one. My heart is so loud, I'm amazed no one is commenting on the thunder despite it being so sunny today. Are my palms sweaty? Oh god, did I shake her hand with a sweaty palm? I put my trousers on right? Is my fly down? Is it warm in here?

Fuck, Fuck, Fuuuuuck.

His mother gestures to a small kettle that looks freshly boiled. "Would you care for some tea?"

"That'd be lovely, a-allow me!" I try to get up, to be busy with something other than the spotlight, but Sho just places a hand on my shoulder. He'll make the tea. Right. I'm here to talk to his mother, to meet her and let her know what kind of a basket-case her son is dating.

It's definitely warm in here.

She smiles. "Shouto has told me so much about you, Alex. Is it alright if I call you Alex?"

"Of course!" I laugh in a strangled manner. "Call me whatever you like."

She chuckles. "He mentioned you might be a bit nervous, dear. It's all right, I'm not going to bite you, I promise."

I sigh. "Sorry, I have my Dad's social skills."

She puts a hand to her mouth and giggles. "I've never had the pleasure of meeting Eraserhead, but if I do, I'll keep that in mind."

"Good plan, he'll be glad to know someone was fore-warned."

"Shouto has been telling me about his extra training and how you've been helping him out, that's ever so kind of you. I do hope it's not putting a strain on your injury dear?"

I sit straighter and my hands curl against my knees. "Uh… Yeah it's fine, thanks."

She puts her hand to her chest. "I do apologise if I wasn't supposed to bring that up, he's just sounded so worried about you."

I glance at Sho but he's fascinated with his tea-making. His ears go a little pink.

She continues. "It sounds like you've been so strong about everything. Very inspiring my dear, I was amazed at your resilience at Kamino."

"Mother…" Sho raises a brow.

She blushes. "Sorry, I promised I wouldn't 'fan girl' over you." She did air quotes with her fingers and I bite my lip against a want to laugh. "I also hear I need to thank you, though."

I blink. "For what?"

She smiles so warmly at Sho I think my heart might melt. "Seems you had a large role to play in bringing Shouto out of his shell. When he first came to see me, he mentioned you and a boy called Izuku Midoryia. I hope to one day thank him too."

No doubt, Izuku will somehow out awkward me.

I take my tea from Sho and stare at the rippling water, hoping my face will stop burning. "I only tried to help out a friend, there's no need to thank me."

"Perhaps, but I'm still very grateful."

"I dunno how much I did, really!"

"You were right, Shouto, she is bad with compliments and praise."

They chuckle together and I glance at Sho again, his smile broad. He looks so at peace, so calm, so centred. They start to talk about school, and Sho explains how I've been helping with training and how our theory work is going. We laugh at how we both dislike Geography and then his mother tells us a few stories from her school days. Very quickly, and without me even realising it, I'm relaxing.

The others have started their work studies, but at least I can claim progress in one area of my life. This is going so well, I keep pinching myself to ensure I'm not day-dreaming. Dad kept assuring me that this would go fine, that any parents would be glad to see their kid dating me, that I'm 'charming'. But he also refused to repeat that when I asked. I'm sure he'll enjoy gloating later when I confirm that it went well. But I can't deny, I'm excited to tell him.

We're there with Sho's mother until mid-afternoon but by then she's in need of some rest. She offers me a hug before I go and I accept it, it feeling a little odd as I've never really had a hug from a mother before. It's different, to say the least. A whole different kind of feeling behind it. I thank her for her time and wait for Sho outside, letting them enjoy a few moments alone together.

My phone buzzes, I hadn't realised I left it on.

Izuku: [I'm about to go on patrol with Mirio! I can't stop shaking. Is that normal, do you think?]

Me: {You'll do great. Just be yourself. And yes, shaking is normal when you're nervous, you dafty.}

I'm glad Izuku feels he can text me now, it likely helps him to have someone to talk to about things. Other than Toshi, and of course he couldn't really talk to Bakugo. Not without getting his head bitten off in the process.

My phone buzzes again.

Oh look who it is.

Bakugo: [You nerds done yet? Still wanting to get some food from the store?]

Me: {Sho's just saying goodbye, meet you at the shops?}

Bakugo: [Sure.]

Sho appears and strides over, clasping my hand so he can pull me into a doorway next to where I was waiting. A stairwell. He hugs me close, hands moving into my hair so he can cup my face and kiss me. I cling to his jacket as he hums, tongue caressing mine, breathing combining. Whenever he kisses me like this, it's like my body is filled with butterflies. Damn it's distracting.

Then he breaks the kiss with a breathless laugh. "You were wonderful, she already loved you after I told her about you, but now? She's ecstatic to have met you. She hopes she wasn't too nosy."

I snort. "Of course she wasn't, she was lovely."

"As were you."

"Guessing that means I didn't screw it up?"

"She demanded to know when you could come back," he beams and kisses me again, stroking my hair back and looking at me so fondly I must be the colour of a tomato by now. "I'm so glad you got along. My sister will be thrilled as well."

I lean back. "Sister? You're not about to spring your entire family on me, are you? They hiding in this stairwell? Because I will float myself out a window if I need to."

He chuckles, pulling me close again. "No, all in good time, I just had to let her know in case Mother got overwhelmed or anything. But she's fine, if anything I think she'll be calling my sister to gush about how lovely you were."

My face burns brighter somehow. "Please stop or I'm going to implode."

He grins. "Sorry."

I show him my phone with the impatient texts from Bakugo and we head downstairs so we can walk into town. As we go, his hand in mine, fingers linked, I can't help my grin. That went so well. I can barely believe how well that went. I'm awake, right?

I text Dad.

Me: {You were right. You can gloat later.}

Dad: [Went well, then?]

Me: {Yeah, somehow I managed to fool her into thinking I'm charming.}

Dad: [Fuck, well done kid, your powers of illusion are getting powerful]

Me: {I get it from you, I guess.}

Dad: [Can't let the humans know we're here Kid, shush.]

Me: {Pretty sure they've known you're an alien for a while, old man.}

Dad: [Lies and slander, I'm a master of disguise. They only know I'm an antisocial shithead, anything else is total conjecture.]

Me: {In print, it's libel.}

Dad: [That's my girl.]

I roll my eyes and put my phone away, kicking some leaves from the gutter and making the drier ones float round our heads, just a little bit. Sho puts his arm round my shoulder and kisses my head, getting our 'lovey dovey' ways finished with before we reach the store.

Bakugo stands outside, playing on his phone, earbuds in. I make his phone shoot up and smack his nose.

"God dammit Alex, you are such a pain in the ass!"

"Nose." I wink.

He rubs the end of it and shoves his phone away. "Took your damn time, too busy being all weird and gross?"

Sho tilts his head. "We held hands, if that's what you mean."

Bakugo rolls his eyes. "Slow pokes. C'mon."

I let go of Sho's hand. "Why don't you guys get the juice and stuff? I need to go grab some noodles from across the street, my Dad loves a specific brand and they carry it. Won't be long!"

"Want that weird ginger soda you like?" Bakugo yells before I cross the road.

I give a thumbs up and grin before I jog across the street, darting inside beside a guy with a rather fabulous purple feathered hood. Stunning colour. I wonder where he got it. I excuse myself past him and go to the noodle isle. It's quiet in the store thankfully, not many shoppers to get in my way. Or to randomly recognise me.

I find the right section and start comparing noodles. It's a big decision you know. Should I get the usual noodles, but get a bigger packet? Or try these new ones? There's some kind of spice on them. Dad sometimes likes the weird stuff I suggest, and to be fair these are hardly out there. Or I could be a total brat and get the jalapeno ones and not tell him. My evil cunning is boundless.

"Good afternoon."

I keep reading the differences between the packs, sometimes these companies make one super lighter than the other and that's never good when we're left with half as many noodles as we need. Dad with fewer noodles than usual is a grumpy Da–

"I said, good afternoon."

I look up. Across the shelves is the purple feather guy, but now I notice he's wearing a big plague mask too. Did he have that on before? Bit weird. I check left and right but I'm the only one nearby. He's staring right at me.

I tilt my head. "Uh, hi there. Sorry, you talking to m–"

"Mizz Aizawa, I presume?"

Dun dun duuuuun. I'm such an arse for cliffhangers, sorry. See you in two weeks for the continuation! Thanks to everyone reading, faving, following and reviewing! Check Shoutouts below if you have!

SHOUTOUTS:

zikashigaku: I really like Amajiki as well tbh, writing his has been good fun ^-^ Haha I can't help myself with the Sho and Alex cuteness. Too fun to write. I understand the concerns over an actual corset being used in that way, buuut its not literally a corset. It's just a joke she makes about the brace feeling like a corset! No corset actually involved. Just a weird feeling for a teenager to get used to and an off hand joke lol, sorry for any confusion. Haha I am glad you're picking up on breadcrumbs, but I shall neither confirm or deny anything... though I wonder how you'll feel about this cliffhanger haha. Thanks again for reviewing, so so kind of you. Hope you're still enjoying as well! See ya next time!

Cosmyk Angel: Glad you're enjoying bakugo's development. I love writing it tbh, and giving it a bit more room to breathe than I feel the anime does. And yeah, Sho is a sweetheart to write and I love it every time lol, though that may be obvious... Thanks for reviewing! Glad to hear you're enjoying it!

Leafnova: Thanks for chiming in again! Glad to hear you're still enjoying it, hope you can continue to do so! ^-^