Hello! Time for more Alex shenanigans!


In the communal area the class all sit down for dinner. As a treat in the lead up to our exams, we're getting a takeout. Between training and specialised diets, it's a rare treat in the dorms. It's harder and harder to persuade Dad these days. He takes his to his room, apparently having a lot of paperwork to do–I think he just wants a beer to go with his curry. I sit with Sho and Bakugo, talking about our training and how their ultimate moves are developing. I join in when I can, but really there's not a lot to brag about. I'm making progress, but very very slowly. I can almost start to activate the surge myself now, but it's only the faintest of grasps. For now, I'm stuck relying on Shinsou–thankfully he seems to like helping me out.

Bakugo keeps smirking.

I prod him with my fork. "The fuck's the smirk about?"

He shrugs. I prod again.

He snorts. "I heard about you needing the mind control kid's help with your ultimate move."

I shrink back. "I uh… I just needed some help–"

"We don't all come to these things naturally." Sho says with a glare aimed at Bakugo.

He glares in return. "I know that you dumbass half-n-half. I was gonna then say I heard Alex puked. Wondered if you and Pink Cheeks were gonna start a club or somethin'."

A bread roll appeared, landing perfectly atop his head before rolling off. He shot Ura a look and she just stuck her tongue out. I'd already asked her advice on the subject of nausea, and thankfully she'd been a goldmine for help. No more puking for me. Hopefully. But Bakugo doesn't need to know that.

I tilt my head. "Funnily enough no, can you imagine the smell if we started gathering numbers?"

He snorts into his meal. "Should've figured you'd be a sass-mouth about it. Did ya make progress though?"

"I did actually… I suppose… yeah." I grin and then both lean in. I'm tempted to say nothing, to let them simply continue discussing their own wonders. But they look interested. I fiddle with my hair. "It's a controlled use of my power surge."

Sho blinks. "Offensive or defensive?"

"Offensive for now."

He nods. "That sounds pretty powerful."

Bakugo nods. "Did ya break shit?"

"I've uh… Totally wiped out the training area obstacles and cracked the building's walls so far. Dad had to get Cementos to fix it a couple times now." I bite my lip and Sho nudges me, eyes bright with pride. I nudge him back. "I have a long way to go."

Bakugo continues with his meal. "You've been doing it later so no one's in the way, right?"

"Yeah, until I can aim it."

"Makes sense, but gonna have to see it in action soon. Sounds kick-ass." Bakugo looks to Sho. "What about you Half-n-half? So far you've just been annoyingly vague as usual."

Bakugo is being oddly sociable, but I'm not about to discourage it–his mother's plea ringing in my mind during these moments, glad to see the normal side becoming warmer, even if the other side occasionally got extra cold. I can't push him though. We have to tread carefully.

Sho shrugs. "It's coming along. My main aim is to use both sides at once. Just… trying to find the right balance. It's causing more strain than I'd have expected, my stamina needs to be a lot more developed. My Father keeps texting me about coming to training, to check on progress."

I frown. "Surely he can contact my Dad about that?"

"He doesn't trust Eraserhead to be forthcoming."

I raise my brows. "Next time he calls, put me on the fucking phone. He'll find out the definition of forthcoming."

Bakugo throws his head back laughing. "Let her loose on your crazy old man. That'd be a fucking great fight to watch. Alex'd demolish him."

"No doubt." Sho smirks and the two boys chuckle. "I'm ignoring him for now anyway. He's just stirring trouble. Sticking his nose in where it's not wanted." His voice changes at the end.

The subject of Endeavour isn't one I ever really push on, and certainly don't bring up. Why would I? All the man ever seemed to do was cause Sho pain. We're dating now, yeah. But we're still in the early days, and I can't even begin to understand the pain Sho was put through. Maybe one day. But the idea of Endeavour actively causing problems and then Sho not speaking to me about it was horrible, like he's hiding it from me.

I nudge him again and his eyes fixate on his fork pushing noodles around.

He glances at me and then at Bakugo. "Let's say you were right, Bakugo."

Bakugo lowers his fork. "You're fuckin' serious?"

I'm not sure at what point it was that these two grew closer, and I'm glad to see them get along, but half the conversation happening over my head is growing tiresome. I wave my fork in between them and they jolt. Yes. I still fucking exist.

I look between them. "Explain?"

Sho sighs and leans closer, avoiding anyone else but Bakugo and I hearing. "My Father's found out about us dating. He's not exactly pleased."

"So because you're his masterpiece you can't have a girlfriend?"

Sho shares an unsure look with Bakugo, but the blonde just nods to me. "C'mon man, she can handle it. She might wanna go punch your Dad in the dick, but who doesn't wanna see that?"

"Me." Sho groans, looking at me with pleading. "Promise you won't rush off? I'd enjoy the show but he'd just use it to mess with you."

I roll my eyes. "If you tell me now, sure, if you stall any further I'll just go ask him myself."

Bakugo chuckles.

Sho puts his fork down. "He objects because… Well he saw the news and asked around. He objects because you can't have children."

Oh. Oh.

No wonder Sho felt a bit awkward telling me. I look at Bakugo, but he's keeping his face as neutral as possible. It's tempting to grab my coat, google Endeavour and go kick his flaming arse in public where all the cameras could catch it firsthand, but I stay put. I clasp my hands on top of the table. I take a long breath for ten seconds, and then out for another ten. The other two watch me closely, both leaning away slightly when I grin.

"Would you look at that?" I check around myself, down my top, then under the table. They watch with raised brows. I shrug. "I can't seem to find a single fuck to give."

Bakugo barks into fresh laughter and Sho laughs behind his hand, shaking his head. Sure I could be upset that the father of my boyfriend disapproves of me simply because I can't reproduce, but it's not like it's something I can change. And it doesn't seem to bother Sho. If that changes, we'd deal with it. But that was for us to talk about. I couldn't care less what Endeavour thought about the colour of the sky, let alone my reproductive system or relationship with Sho.

Sidenote: as soon as Sho had put his arm around me, the usual squeaks and giggles sprung up. Mina still couldn't contain herself, and Ura occasionally needed a second to calm down as well. Tsu usually just chuckled and Momo would tut at the others, trying to shush them. When I first told the girls they all went bananas, demanding details and minute discussion. It was very weird. All except Jiro who had given me a thumbs up and stayed chill. I clung to her a little, I will admit. Toru clapped loudly for a very long time. As for the boy reactions, I'm less sure. They'll find out I guess? It's not like I feel like throwing a parade here...

All right. Carrying on...

Sho smooths back his hair. "Should have known you wouldn't care. Didn't want to assume though."

I kiss his cheek. "Your concern is very appreciated." I then tilt my head. "So, have you not had that conversation with the old man? That you don't want sprogs?"

"He knows, he just doesn't believe me." Sho puts his arm around me, holding me close, eyes searching mine. "You're really not upset?"

"I'm not surprised. He's an ass with a hard-on for legacies. One day, I'll gladly shove his bullshit back up his wrinkled nose." I smile and tap the end of his nose. "But otherwise, I'm good. Not like I can change anything about it, nor do I want to."

Bakugo yawns. "No freak out at all, damn. You've changed."

"We can't all be Lord Explosion Murder."

"That was a legit as fuck name, and you know it." He throws a piece of onion at me, and I fling it back with my power. It slaps into the centre of his forehead. "Your power's so annoying."

"'Practical is the word you're looking for." I wink.

Sure, it sucks that Endeavour has issues with me, but it isn't like I need to worry. Sho doesn't care about his father's opinion. The only opinion I really need to worry about is his mother's. Otherwise, I'm good. Plus, I don't know how long we'll be together. I care about Sho a lot, we get on really well, and so far things are great; but I'm not fucking looking at wedding dresses, am I? We're still kids. Who knows what lies ahead.

The steady footfalls of Dad can be heard coming down the stairs. Sho kisses my cheek and removes his arm from round me. He isn't afraid of Dad, but doesn't wanna rub it in his face either. I appreciate it. Though really, I should talk to Dad about me and Sho. I have no clue what his actual standing on me dating is. It's not exactly come up before, and the night he caught us kissing he was more concerned with sassing me than scolding.

Dad clears his throat when he reaches the table. "Alex, you nearly done eating?"

"Sure, needing me for something?" I note the serious look on his face.

He nods and gestures back up the stairs. Oh dear. I get up to clear my stuff, but Sho just shoos me away. He'll sort it.

I fall into step with Dad on the stairs. "You okay? Paperwork kicking your arse?"

"I've just got some news. Needed to speak about it sooner rather than later."

I slow. "Uh… Ok that sounds bad."

"C'mon kid you don't wanna have this talk on the stairs." He waits and then opens his door, holding it open for me. I am dragging my feet, but he's as patient as ever.

I head inside. "Okay, spill."

"I've had word from All Might." He starts, pursing his lips afterwards and clearing his throat. "He was visiting All for One."

I stumble back against his desk but manage to find my feet again. "Oh… Right. C-Carry on."

"Apparently the bastard is refusing to speak, until he's seen you."

Dad didn't want me in front of others, and this is why. The walls feel like they're looming, leaning in for the gossip. I swallow hard and try to speak, but I struggle to pull a breath in. Dad ushers me to his balcony, the fresh night air. He sits me down and takes my hand in my lap, knelt in front of me, eyes attentive and patient. He always looks adorable with his hair tied back.

"Breathe, kid. He's not here. He's still locked away."

"Mm. Of course."

"I'm just passing on the message, and obviously All Might is not applying any pressure either." He squeezes my hands. "No one is."

That's cute. But I doubt it's correct.

I snort. "Sure…"

"I mean it."

"So the police aren't being held back this very second?"

My throat thickens. All for One won't say anything until he's seen me, until he's talked to me. Without that, the police can get no further, they can't get anymore work done. I have to talk to that animal in order for them to be able to even start. Dammit. This isn't fair. I didn't wanna look into those flesh covered eyes again, that breathing mask. That voice. I'll be right back in that rubble, my power crushing me as he hungers to rip it out of my body. The base of my spine hurts at the very idea. I swallow hard and cling to Dads' hands. I'm safe. I'm here with Dad and my friends. We're safe. I'm not about to turn round and find that faceless bastard watching me, laughing at me. I breathe slower, glad of the fresh air. I wait until my breathing isn't interrupted by almost-sobs. Then I manage to open my eyes again, glad to have avoided tears this time.

Dad smiles softly. "I can tell them you refuse. That is an option, Alex."

"Right." I stare at our hands, his knuckles paling at my tone.

He waits till I look at him, his expression verging on angry. "You don't have to do anything you're not all right with."

I clamber into his lap, hugging tight. "Give me some time to think about it?"

"Of course." He runs his hands up and down my back.

I sniff. "I'm not refusing. I'm…"

"Reeling? Thinking? Freaking the fuck out?"

I chuckle with him and nod, glad of the safety I can find in his arms. "Yeah, let's call it that."

"Sorry I had to even ask."

I shake my head, not letting go. "I'm glad you told me. Let's me know you can still trust my nerve."

His head nudges mine. "Never doubted it."

For a few moments he's just holding me, and I feel my nerves slowly calm.

I nuzzle his neck. "Want something to laugh about, old man?"

"Could do with it I think." He hums, rocking slightly.

"Endeavour doesn't approve of me dating Sho."

Dad gasps, leaning back to put the back of his hand to his forehead. "Oh dear. Whatever will we do? If that's the case then hold everything, I forbid you being together. How dare you displease that sack of pious shit?"

I hide in the crook of his neck and laugh despite how my eyes are itching. I knew Dad hated Endeavour–neither of them liked the press, but knowing how Endeavour treated his kids crossed a line for Shouta that wouldn't be easily uncrossed. My Dad is a cold guy sometimes, but he will protect kids no matter what. On another note, it's good to hear he doesn't agree with the disapproving of my relationship aspect.

But of course, Dad is wise to my cunning plan.

He squeezes me in the hug. "Is this your side-step way of finding out my thoughts on you two being together, as well?"

I shrug.

He tickles me until he can see my face again. He pushes my hair back and raises a brow. "You happy with the weird kid?"

I nod.

"He treating you well? No weird controlling crap?"

I blink. "Huh?"

Dad shrugs. "He's hardly been given a great upbringing. Just checking."

That was fair enough, I guess. "All good. If anything he's way too kind."

"Your definition of that is likely skewed." He leans back against the wall and looks through the railing. The lights of the city are winking into view as dusk turns to night. A smirk appears. "If you're happy, then I'm happy. Plus the kid relies way too much on his quirk. I could erase it and kick his ass."

I scoff. "I can kick his arse myself, thanks very much."

"That's my girl." Then he purses his lips and tilts his head, dark hair falling in front of his eyes slightly. "Do you know why Endeavour's being a bitch about it?"

"Can you guess?"

"Well… You're not one to be told what to do. But considering his weird obsession with legacy, it's only logical to assume it's to do with the aftermath of your injuries."

"Cupboard's bare." I wink and there's a flicker of a smirk, but it's held back by that spark of concern. He knows I was sure and he wouldn't doubt that, but he's still my Dad. He still worries. It took awhile for him to adapt to parenthood, but he really is a great Dad.

He rolls his eyes. "Could the idiot be any more predictable?"

"Nope."

"If he comes calling I'll be sure to send him right to your door. Though, can I ask a favour when that confrontation takes place?"

"Name it."

"Film it."

I'm not sure, due to the rather taxing first part of the year that had passed by, but I'm fairly confident that I'd never hugged Dad tighter. Along with that, having finally talked to him about my situation with Sho, I realise that I'm not entirely sure I've ever seen Dad date. I tug on his hair lightly till he peers down at me, brow raised.

I poke his cheek. "You a monk or something?"

He blinks, taking a couple seconds before the penny drops. "Ah."

"Yeah, I've never even seen you flirt… I don't think."

"I um… well… no. Not a monk."

I raise a brow, waiting.

He rolls his eyes. "Never anything beyond the odd hook-up, all right?"

I sit up, holding his shoulders and tutting. "Dad, are you a fuckboy?"

He cringes. "Okay, parenting foot is coming down. Never use that term in front of me again. It's forbidden, not happening, not okay."

I hold back the laughter as much as I can, but he's blushing. "Shouta, c'mon! You gotta spill now. I'm not gonna stop asking."

He sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Nothing long term, and not with total strangers, a kind of… friends with benefits situation. Clear enough?"

"No! Who the hell with and how did you sneak them past me?"

He thunks his head back against the screen door. "Look kid in all seriousness… the long term stuff just doesn't feel right for me."

"Never?"

He puts his hands over his face. "Why is this suddenly so interesting?"

I shrug. "Because I just realised I don't know this about you… And I guess I wanna know that when my sorry arse is out of your way… you won't be alone."

Yes initially I might have been being a little cruel, teasing my poor helpless father over his dating habits, but it's beyond that. It's banter, it's a proper conversation between us–it's a moment I might not have gotten to have if I'd given in that night at Kamino, if I'd let myself give in and die. I wanna know him. And yes, I want to know that he would be okay if something did finally break my lucky streak. If I wasn't scraped off the ground and put back together by Recovery Girl.

He peeks from behind his hands. His eyes narrow. "You're not in my way."

I hang my head. "So not my point, Dad."

"But it is mine." He taps my chin and then the end of my nose when I look up. "I didn't sneak anyone, I just never brought them back to the apartment. Hizashi and Nemuri babysat you, right?"

The pieces clicked. Ah. He wasn't always on patrol I guess. It wasn't what they said either, I assumed. So not even a lie was needed. These adults and their sneaky ways.

"So… no one long term?"

He raises a brow. "Why, you suddenly wanting a Mum as well? Greedy brat."

I roll my eyes and flick his forehead. "I mean–"

"I'm happy kid, isn't that enough?"

I frown and peer, waiting to see a flicker of a lie, a mask, a facade. But it's not there. I blink. Maybe it was like me not wanting kids, he didn't want anything longer than a couple dates.

"Can I ask why not long term?"

He draws a deep breath and puffs out his cheeks. "I am an unsociable bastard."

I open my mouth to argue, but then slowly close it. He had a point. I guess me sticking around as his kid was a little different because we were so alike. And Nemuri and Hizashi only came over occasionally. He liked his own space. His own bubble.

He shrugs. "That might change one day, who knows. Might meet the right person and wanna never let go. But for now? Not my thing. I have plenty to be getting on with being a teacher, a Pro Hero and your Dad. Sound okay for the time being, Nosy?"

I look down and pick at a loose thread on his jumper. "You promise it wasn't because of me?"

"I promise, kid. I was well aware you could handle me being in a relationship with someone. You're a good kid, very low maintenance when you're not getting yourself into perilous situations." He tucks my hair back. "If something ever gets serious you'll be the first person I tell. Promise."

I grin and throw my arms round his neck. "Good! Someone has to warn the poor bugger about your bad habits, whomever they may be."

We laugh together, and I linger for a few more minutes, moving onto chatting about coursework and training ideas. It sounds like the training with Shinsou is going great for him as well. After that, I leave him to his beer and head downstairs to see if Sho and Bakugo had hung around. Or at least Sho, I'm not sure why I thought of Bakugo. Then again, Kirishima had headed home for the weekend to see his parents prior to the exams, so Bakugo was down his usual partner in crime. Plus, having him around was good fun.

Midoryia gives a wave as he heads out on a jog with Iida. I return it and go towards the kitchen, rather glad to see both Sho and Bakugo exactly where I'd left them. They're talking about something intensely, so I just set the kettle on to boil. Their chairs squeak against the flooring. I lean against the counter; psyching myself up for their questions.

Sho's eyes rake over me. "What did your Dad want?"

Bakugo grins. "You being ordered to split with the half-n-half after all?"

I shake my head and clasp my hands, sobering the room. Dad didn't say it was a secret, and really, I need to talk it out with someone. Sho is my boyfriend, so he's in for sure. Plus he knows how much of a mess I've been lately. And Bakugo has firsthand experience with All for One. He'll get it better than anyone else. Except maybe All Might, but for one thing I still can't stomach talking to him, and above that he'd be stuck behind a screen of father-esq concern. His words would only hold so much weight. Still, I should talk to him. I know I should. This guilt needs to be dealt with.

But in that moment, I have Sho and Bakugo to help.

"Dad's fine with us being together, but as I said to him, any funny business and I can kick your arse if need be." I smile at Sho and he nods, blushing a little. He's thrilled to know Dad approves. I clear my throat. "As for why he wanted to talk… It uh… All Might phoned, he had some news aboutAll for One."

Bakugo flinches, receding a step before clearing his throat and approaching again. I knew the feeling that ran down his spine at the mentioning of the name, the cold sensation that seemed to ripple like the bastard's laughter. Sho glances to the blonde before training his eyes back on me. I contain the shivering. Even the name tastes disgusting.

"Apparently, he's refusing to speak to the police or All Might until… Until I go speak to him."

"You?" They say in unison.

I nod.

Sho frowns. "But… Why?"

"Don't think he w-was that forthcoming."

"What did you say to your Father?"

"I said I had to think, which of course he was fine with. He's not gonna let anyone pressure me." I can't help but half laugh.

Even now, I can imagine the police pacing their offices. Someone will want to come find me, persuade me, only being held back by All Might, or maybe his friend who worked on the force. They would likely be resenting the fact this information was being held up by a silly child. A victim still afraid. I grip the counter. I'm holding them all back.

Both Bakugo and Sho look lost, having no idea why I laughed.

I swallow hard. "Every second I dither, the police are waiting on information."

"Fuck that." Bakugo snarls, coming over to the counter. "You know that friend of All Might's will keep them shut up."

"Not really the point." I smile and he falters. "I'm holding them back by h-hesitating."

Sho shakes his head. "You're allowed to hesitate, you're allowed to refuse. The man tore you apart. You have no reason to–"

"There's plenty of reason to agree." I suck in a shaken breath, the shivering getting harder to hide. "I could help them unwind his web. I c-could persuade him to help them figure out the open cases they think h-he's attached to."

Bakugo looks to the floor. "Can you though?"

At first I think he's suggesting I'm too weak, but then I see the faint blush on his cheeks. No. Bakugo's not judging me. He wants to know if I can, because he knows he can't. Maybe. I'm only able to guess. All I know is that Bakugo doesn't suit sounding that small.

I scrape my hair back. "I have no fucking idea."

Bakugo shakes his head. "He could say all kinds of messed up shit to you, Alex. You… You still have nightmares, right?"

"Probably always will." I nod and he crosses his arms, though in a way I think he's just hugging himself. No Bakugo, you're not alone. "You?"

He grits his teeth. "Hard not to. Never really felt powerless till then. Strapped to a fucking chair, waiting for them to brainwash me or kill me. Then he…" He runs his hand over his mouth, swallowing hard. The bitter taste of the black ooze that transported us from Shigaraki's base to All for One's is immediately on my tongue. "He was right there, sneering and monologuing. Like every other villain but… Somehow worse. Like he knew he would win. He knew we weren't strong enough to do a damn thing."

"But we did." I whisper, reaching and taking his hand tightly, ignoring how he tried to retreat. His lips curl into a grimace. He wants to refuse it, he wants to stay nice and snug in that pity pit he's built himself–hating himself more and more . I hadn't even realised. How selfish of me.

Sho approaches. "Alex's right. Like I've said to you a dozen times already Bakugo. You both fought back, you refused his tormenting. You survived."

Bakugo grinds his teeth. "Doesn't feel like that."

Sho raises a brow. "And you wonder why they call you stubborn?"

I watch in amazement as Bakugo's glare melts into a smirk.

Sho stands on the other side of me, shaking his head. "You're not alone, Bakugo. You never were."

"Never should've told you a damn thing." Bakugo scoffs and squeezes my hand. "Your boyfriend's a nosy shit."

I run my thumb along the back of Bakugo's hand, glad to feel a little tension leave. "Yeah. Though I'm curious as to when this bonding session took place. You two weren't nearly this friendly before." I look between them, and as Bakugo retrieves his hand, he goes to the island and hops to sit there, swinging his legs. Neither of them speak. A solid minute passes. I throw my hands up. "Spit it out, somebody. Telekinesis, not Telepathic."

How fucking handy would that be though?!

Sho replies, barely above a whisper. "When you were recovering from All for One's attacks..." He swallows hard. "It was during your two weeks under sedation. Bakugo came in a few minutes after your Dad had left to get food. We were still taking it in turns at that point. Eventually they just let us eat in your room but uh… y-yeah. I was in there on my own and… And–"

"And I found him falling to fuckin' pieces." Bakugo answers, without a lick of malice. "The cold prick did his best to cover it, but I knew how much he cared about you. He wouldn't shut up about saving you to the others apparently, Kirishima said it was every second thing that came out his mouth when they went lookin' for us."

I lean against Sho, and he puts an arm round me, a little warm as he grows flustered.

Bakugo continues. "We talked a few times. That time, and the next was when the docs had been getting less certain about your recovery. Somethin' about seizures complicating matters. I only got bits and pieces out of him that time, and it explained the way Mr Aizawa had left, looking ready to punch someone straight through the heart."

"They kept talking like you weren't going to wake up." Sho held me tighter. "Bakugo was kind enough to stay and talk me out of my panic each time."

I smile at the secretly kind shithead. "How'd you manage that?"

"Told the prick to breathe and remember who the hell he was talking about. You grew up on the streets, you came to school with loads of scars, you turned up a veteran of shit already. You're a survivor. We all saw that at the USJ for ourselves."

I'm touched. I can't deny that. Sure, me and Bakugo had been getting on pretty well, so much so that I would tentatively call him my friend. Only hesitating due to his potential violent refusal. But now? I feel that word settle in my chest. Friend. My face is bright pink in all likeliness and I raise my foot to nudge Bakugos.

He smirks. "Then I pointed out that there was no way you were gonna check out before getting to bone this guy."

I balk.

Bakugo and Sho laugh together as I wish the floor would swallow me whole.

Bakugo claps his hands. "Lady boner for days."

"You bastards." I groan, hiding my face in my hands. "I'm so very fucking glad you got friendly now."

"Hey now, it calmed him down. Don't go pretending to be a prude now." Bakugo leans back, propped up on his elbows. "From then on… Well we kinda helped each other. Like I said to you once you woke up, the others tried but none of them really got it. At least Half-n-half understood the worry over you."

I blink. "You were worried about me, Bakugo?"

He shrugs. "You're a strong ally, and a decent laugh."

"Careful Bakugo, you might accidentally pay me a compliment."

"Don't push your luck."

"Wouldn't dream of it." I lean against Sho more and he kisses my head. I sigh and lay my head on his chest. Whilst glad of the lighter reprieve to the conversation, I still need their advice. "So… All joking aside. What do you two think I should do about this prison visit? Just curious."

Sho puts his chin on top of my head. "Part of me worries it'll make your dreams worse, another part wonders if it might help stop them. Closure and that kind of thing… so… Really I think you should do whatever it is you think will help you move on more."

"Bakugo?" I peer at him and note how he watches the ceiling fan.

He takes a deep breath. "Kinda the same as Half-n-half. On one hand, you could go and verbally hand the Shithead's ass to him, on the other… It could seriously mess with your head."

Verbally hand his ass to him. Verbally.

I look down and my mind ticks loudly; it doesn't have to only be verbal. The prison has All for One contained. Powerless. Right? How else would he still be in prison, like a sitting duck. He's totally vulnerable. It didn't have to only be verbal. I still have my power, I have the means to kill him right here, in my mind.

I could do it. I could kill All for One. A quick squeeze and his heart would rupture. Or a tug and his spinal column detaches from his brain. So many choices.

I don't realise I'm holding my breath until Sho gives me a little shake. Bakugo's right there as well, hand on my shoulder, shaking as well. I must have zoned out completely.

I open my mouth to explain, but the words stall. They won't approve. Would they? I don't know. The room feels like it's spinning, the ache in my heart connected to my fear is throbbing. I'm terrified. Partly because it would be me purposefully killing someone. But mainly because I'm okay with that. If it's All for One, where's the harm? He deserves to die.

Bakugo looks to Sho. "She still with us?"

"I think she's coming back round, yeah. Alex?"

I lick my lips, them suddenly feeling dry. "What i-if it wasn't verbal?"

"Huh?" Sho tries to turn me so he can see my face, but I don't budge.

Bakugo leans closer. "What you planning on doing? Interpretive dance to show him how pissed off you are?"

I nod to the carton of food still on the counter and they turn. The foil cracks, it groans under the pressure and then succumbs to my power, becoming a tiny ball of foil. It rolls on the island in the newfound silence.

I repeat. "What if it isn't a verbal attack?"

They're both staring at me. Eyes wide, mouths slightly ajar. Perfect mirrors of each other. But I can't see if it's in just shock or disapproval.

"You'd never be able to be a hero." Bakguo says, brows lifted as though confused about his own words. I'm glad, because I know I'm lost. "They'll throw you in prison for that shit, Alex. You… You can't do that."

I expected that from Sho. Not Bakugo.

He grits his teeth. "Don't let them win like that. Don't be stupid."

I flinch, and then feel cold as I see Sho nodding, he joins in. "Bakugo's right, Alex. You can't let All for One get to you like that. It could even be what he has planned. It would create a domino effect and–"

I shrug away from them both. "I could stop him."

"The police have–"

"Only delayed the inevitable." I shake my head and keep backing up towards the glass doors as they approach. "He's gonna get out, you know he is. It's only a matter of time."

Bakugo glares. "Then we'll fight him again. We can beat him on the field, Alex."

"O-Or I avoid all that carnage with one little use of my quirk. It would be so easy. With him contained, I might be able to focus enough for it. At Kamino I was so scattered, I couldn't even start to think like that. But now? Now I can."

They both shake their heads.

Bakugo runs a hand through his hair. "C'mon Alex, if I'm saying it's not like a hero, that's gotta mean something, right? That's not how we do things."

I back up all the way to the glass doors that lead to the garden. They're cold. I want to smash right through and run into the darkness, but my legs won't carry me. They're already quaking. The base of my spine twinges, reminding me of my damn weakness. I slide down and sit on the floor, hugging my knees to my chest. It would be so simple. Surely it was worthwhile. No, I might not be able to be a hero. But I could save so many lives. Right? I put my head against my knees. Shit. It's the right choice isn't it? Then why is my heart already aching? Because I know it's wrong. Morally. My nails dig into my arms and I feel a scream burn at the base of my throat; nothing makes sense any more. Why did that shithead get to keep on living when he had destroyed so many lives?

They kneel in front of me. But they stay quiet. They know a lecture won't work–I'm too stubborn for that kind of tactic. They're both panicking. I wonder if they're considering going to get my Dad. Probably. I wouldn't blame them. I sound insane. Killing. Murder. I was talking like a villain. Tsu would be disgusted. The darkness Dad warned me about, the temptation to abandon the system and take it all upon ourselves. It's so potent.

It could even be what he has planned.

Sho's right. I recall All for One's words from the field when he spoke of Shigaraki like a son, like a protege to carry on his work once he had fallen. Maybe that was the point. Set up Shigaraki's new rule as the big bad with me as the spark for the new age. Drag me to the darkness with Shigaraki waiting to welcome me, arms open, dry lips spread in that sickening grin. Fuck. Dabi too. He'd smirk, hold me close, make it all feel okay. Like I did the right thing. He'd whisper justification and suggest the next move, turning me into some kind of puppet. No. It's not right, it's not the way.

My mind calms. My mind clears. My heart slows.

I can't. By doing this, I'd have been playing right into their clasping hands.

"Fuck."

Two hands land on my shoulders, neither holding tightly, just laying their touch there to remind me that I'm not alone. Dammit, I was so close. The darkness had been right there, waiting for me. So close to falling, to failing.

I peer at them through my hair and give a meek nod. I know they're right. I'm a damn fool. I'll just go talk to him, I'll play my part and get the police their way in. I'd talk to All for One after the License exam.

I grit my teeth. "I hate him so much."

Bakugo nods. "We all do. He'll get justice one way or the other. But don't go letting the bastard destroy you as well, yeah?"

"Y-Yeah." I sniff. "Sorry. You're b-both right."

Sho smiles. "We know."

"S-Smug gits."

"Yeah but ya love it."


DAY OF LICENCE EXAM

The arena looks a lot like the sports festival set-up, but Dad assures me this isn't televised. This is strictly for testing students. The media have no place here and I'm so bloody glad. Over the weekend I've been cleared for taking part today by both Recovery Girl, and the counsellors–but I dunno that they took cameras into account. Watchful eyes. Staring. Flashing lights. I could handle the media, but when trying to focus on an exam, those whispering lips were the last thing I needed to be thinking about. And of course I kept my slight deviation into 'maybe I can just kill the guy' mentality under wraps… No point waving that around.

As we get off the bus, I stick close to Sho. I'd like to be nearer Dad, but he has a job as a teacher to be doing. I can't cling. I don't even cling to Sho, but I am edging closer as other schools come and go near us. Ok maybe clinging a little? Fuck it. A couple schools pass by, knowing my friends from the festival or me from the recent shebacle. They would all know our quirks. We know nothing about them. That can't be good.

Then comes the intense dude. I've never seen someone so maniacally happy. I don't know whether to be freaked out or suspicious. Either way, he needs to fucking calm down, no need to bow yourself into the pavement. Then Dad explains, and I can't help but glance at Sho. The intense guy scored better than Sho? That sounds strange. Like, not possible, strange. But these days, Sho's pride is far less easily damaged. He shrugs and takes my hand as we head inside.

Then I hear it. The shrill squeal of a woman.

I pause and look back, seeing a woman dashing over to Dad, waving her arms. I squeeze Sho's hand and step closer, intrigued. Is this his friend with benefits? Maybe? She's throwing words like love and marriage around, but it might be only jokes. I know, since my existence was discovered, he's had a lot more female fans. Apparently, he got a lot hotter when he became a Dad. I don't get it. But this looks like a pro, so what gives? Weird. He's leaning away, seemingly entirely unimpressed–my friends with benefits theory pales and I am about to sneak off with the others when she's grabbed hold of my wrist and wrenched me over for a better look. Aw crap, now I'm under the microscope.

The woman beams. "Oh wow! No wonder she's adopted, she's a real looker!"

"Dad, who the fu–"

He shoves my shoulder and shakes his head. Though I see the smirk. "My daughter has to prepare for her exam, please let go of her."

"Oh you're no fun, you two! But hey, you're two peas in a pod all right!"

"Uhuh. Have fun Dad." I snort and run away before the woman can crack another joke and send him further into a bad mood. I can't run fast enough, his storm cloud thickens.

The lobby is huge, and quickly filling with wannabe heros. We're all changed into our costumes, and whilst it feels weird to be in such a public setting wearing them, I'm glad. It's like a suit of armour. I'm not me, I'm the hero me. Perhaps it makes little sense, but it definitely helps to calm my mind. Sho stays close, his hand either holding mine, or fingers interlaced.

As they go over the test rules though, he lets go and leans closer to my ear. "Once the exam starts, I think the class is best served splitting up. At least for me, I won't be able to defend or attack easily with everyone so close."

"Do what you feel is best for your test." I grin, and clasp his hand tightly for a second before letting go and looking back to the podium.

He leans in again. "You'll do amazing."

"As will you."

And then the madness began.

The roof opens and the arena is revealed. It's amazing. I attach my targets and immediately begin to focus on them, just like I do with my back. No ball would touch. Simple. I stay with Midoryia and the others, and a plan starts to form. Our tightly knit group is soon ambushed; a blizzard of balls soaring towards us from several of the other pro schools. Sounds about right. The other schools know what they're dealing with when it comes to UA.

Little do they realise, that can also lead to under-estimation.

All right. Let's play.


Dun dun duuuun HERE COMES THE EXAAAM! Thanks to everyone who is reading, faving, following and of course leaving a review. I love responding to you guys when you do, it really does make my day to know how people are finding the story! Shoutouts below! ^-^ thanks again, see you soon!

SHOUTOUTS:

TheTardisIsTheFourthHallow: Thanks so much for reviewing! Aizawa's special move has to be cat adoption, it's a hill I will die on lol. Haha I love that you thought it was Bakugo, that's hilarious. I do see what you mean, and they definitely have chemistry. Never say never I guess, but personally I found her more drawn to a friendship with Todoroki due to the fact he is calmer, and at first she's pretty annoyed by Bakugo and his anger issues. So now that Bakugo is a LITTLE more... reasonable? They can actually form a connection ^-^ friendship or otherwise! Hope that makes sense! But I do know what you mean, I kept flipping the coin in my mind. Thanks again!

Zikashigaku: Haha yes they FIIIINALLY kissed lol. I took my time, eh? Glad to hear the pay off worked for you though! Papa Shouta will always be protective of his Alex lol, no doubt. I'm glad you're enjoying the friendship between her and Bakugo, it's a lot of fun to write in all honesty. I love how they interact. And yeah! I wanted to really underline that Alex's power could be IMMENSE, but its gonna take a lot of work to get there! Never want these things to be too easy. I am looking forward to showing the exam stuff next time haha, I had a lot of fun playing with the concept-assume nothing, I often play a very long game with my set ups ;)