Chapter 12
Inside there was a deep spark, ignited by the coldness he had thrown. Ochako made a choice she thought to be the right one, no longer wanting to hide behind tears to unveil a strength that had forced its way up inside. Past the mourning and pain, guilt stricken torment that had plagued her heart within the last few days.
Maybe she decided to let go, unsure anymore. But the only thing she did know for certain was that there were many eyes on her today, and even more on Deku. It was a fine way to get attention from yes, not only him, but others watching the performance. Hopefully enough, her parents would as well, all of the adoring faces countering the negativity as their team evaded the others.
Darting past the other contestants, her eyes barely skimmed over the window of the commentary box, trying to block Aizawa out completely to focus solely on the competition. There wasn't a single moment that pictured Hatsume, their fellow teammate, in a bad fashion whatsoever either. Before in the past her face may have played tell to that anguished feeling, familiar to the senses that haunted now. It all seemed so trivial. After all, Ochako felt some form of admiration for the girls hard efforts with a goal in mind to show off her equipment. It was smart enough. Only a good example of what she should also be focusing on rather than dally in intrusive emotions.
To which Aizawa acknowledged her outstanding efforts, staring down hard on the edge of his seat. At first he appeared worried, cautious in her choice of team with the trials they'd face. But that look, that fiery pit within those large brown eyes sent ablaze with something he hadn't seen in her before.
Under the scarf he smiled genuinely, brows furrowed to meet that same determination, putting all faith in her decision that he had so stupidly not given the credit for.
And for this, it was why he pushed instead of gave in. There was no time for idle talks of sweetness and lies to tell children. Because truly she wasn't one any longer. It was the thing that he cherished most in that kind mind, was the potential that would creep out once she was steered in the right direction. Even though no one else knew this, Aizawa did very well. Which was why she was rarely given special treatment, none going for when it was time to get serious.
When the timer went out and it was revealed that her team would progress to the finals, he stood swiftly- raising his fist in the air to cheer alongside All Might- who halted to give Aizawa a strange look. Same as Mic, both exchanging expressions at the teachers unusual tenacity for the games.
"We're supposed to be biased," Mic mocked, earning a hard kick to the side of his chair that sent him screaming once more as All Might covered his ears.
He cringed, backing away from the two as the students began to clear the arena for the next challenge to be held, wanting to go congratulate Izuku. Warry if the two men could behave or if they'd receive another sighting from the principal.
"Listen. I'm gunna go greet the students and let em know I'm proud. I'll only be gone for a little while so please, I'm begging, behave," he said hesitantly.
Aizawa ignored him, while Mic gave a cute smile, waving him off. Both eerily silent.
All Might pursed his lips, giving a stern glare before exiting the room. Hopefully not in the end, regretting the decision.
"The kitten did amazing out there!," Mic hollered once the door shut.
Anticipating an annoyed comment or assault, the man gave no mind. Aizawa remained staring down from the window at her back leaving the field, heading towards the common area. Still holding that amused smile. Her bright face, patting friends on the back giving hugs- raising applause from everyone passing. For the first time in a bit, he felt grateful. Only because she seemed alive once more in comparison to the dark previous days.
"Yea, she did."
oo
Ochako's heart pumped hard, ironically eager for the next round to start. Deku always figured out a way to win the goal, even if this time she hadn't had much faith in the last round. The option of choosing him was based simply to get Aizawa's gaze in another way, forcing him to view her in a different light than that small, fragile girl he had seen lately. She wouldn't allow herself to fall so low that the taunt of Crybaby, what he always used, would be the only truth he'd see her with.
In addition, there was so much more room to grow not only as a pro hero or a student, but in life also. The line between lover and teacher would be blurred at times, but now wasn't good to look at him with bashful eyes. Not yet. There was a lot left to accomplish, earning not only his affection, but respect in the process. In a sense she yearned for that more than his heart, because it meant more in his point of view than any kiss he could ever offer.
The spark hadn't gone out. She could feel it burning inside, clawing it's way up ready to face anything the tournament had to offer as the bracket started up. Their names being placed individually along the board, stopping once they were all in order.
Gasps were heard throughout the crowd of students, glancing at one another to search for their opponents- the few that made it. And on that board, her name was clear. Across from Bakugou.
A shiver attempted to blow it out, trembling as she balled her hands into fists. The head of bright blond hair only a few feet away, looking up at the board. Mumbling comments to himself. Nearby she could feel Deku's eyes boring into her, but she fought hard to show no fear. This opponent was one of the best, and if there was any hope in winning, she'd show resolve. Concentrating on the goal at hand.
Ochako wouldn't disappoint them. Not Shouta, not her parents. Or her friends. If there was anything worth the hard work, it'd be finally earning a decent praise from their stern teacher along with doing this for herself. Proving that she was worthy to stand beside him in the field as a future pro hero.
So when she finally had time to herself in the students waiting room, she breathed in deeply. Indulging in the sweet silence that she adored so much.
In these past weeks Ochako had gone through so much. Many things that her peers didn't even know about, recalling at one point she would have dialed Deku's number to tell him everything. Or Mina, happily going along with the gossip. But it was adolescent child's play in this path that she chose to leave behind. Life surely had a way of slapping her hard in the face, but possibly this was what the outcome would be for placing herself in adult situations.
Thinking back further, her mind rang out the coughing she gave as he administered an iron hit to her body. Slamming her onto the ground after angering him. Pressing into her stomach, a screenplay of a villian that he demonstrated would be no different in the streets. It was painful, that horrifying way Aizawa handled her to put her in check within the training grounds. But it was another door opened, spawning a new area of their relationship was that necessary. Because in the end it was nothing compared to the scenery before her, as she'd face off with brutal force of the most cutthroat student in class.
Most would expect it to be a bad memory, but to her it meant something important as he'd leave way to the silver lining. Always correcting a mistake and leaving room, allowing her a glimpse of who Aizawa really was.
A sad smile tugged on her lips, leaning onto the table in the quiet room. The truth dawning out that all she could really hope for now was the future, wanting things to go back to the way they were. At least, her personal and private idea of normalcy. Where her parents loved each other, her friends greeted her like before, and nights welcomed with open arms showering sleep with it.
The only thing that kept her sane at this point in such negative times, was the knowledge that even if her house was cold without welcome, there was a classroom. And inside would be a dim light, with his silhouette standing in its depths to embrace her.
Deku entered the room as she remained staring at her hands on the table. It was clear that he had been observing her behavior for some time, possibly noting it down along the mental memory. It wasn't that she detested him, more that she wished he would back off in prying into what was happening behind the closed doors of her life, regardless if it meant reaching out as a friend.
"Hey Uraraka," he said softly, closing the door and taking a few steps up to the table.
Play along. Even if you don't feel like it.
"Hey," she replied not so enthusiastically as she thought.
He fidgeted, wanting to ask if she was alright. It'd be selfish to expect that innocent personality back, being the most cheerful one of the bunch. This wasn't the girl he knew. But maybe he didn't know her at all anymore. Did anyone? She never spoke to the other classmates often as of late, becoming further withdrawn. Not that she wasn't polite, just seemed to be on a different stage compared to the rest, himself included.
"So I've got a strategy for how you could beat Kacchan! I've been thinking hard and I think I've figured it ou-"
"No thanks," she interrupted, pushing the chair back to stand. His smile faded slightly as his eyes skimmed her over.
"I already came up with something myself that I wanna try.. I don't want to rely on anyone's help for this. But thank you for the concern Deku."
Ochako tried to give him a big grin, though he knew it was completely fake.
The bell sounded and she began to make her way past him. Offering a thumbs up, quietly exiting the room.
oo
It was alarming walking onto the field nearly alone this time with the attention on her as well as the opponent making his way on the opposite side.
Trying not to show any nervousness as she stepped onto the platform, though Aizawa knew better. Watching her small form with the flicker of a tremble, regardless of that strong fury that still remained.
Mic shuffled, fiddling with his hands as he watched Aizawa's face grow hard. All Might hadn't come back yet like he was supposed to, off with the other students that had returned from their matches. And the itch of wanting to blurt out something was becoming difficult to keep down.
"Jeez she's going against that violent guy huh?," he muttered, catching the glint in Aizawa's eyes.
"It doesn't matter. This was always a possibility."
"Sooo you're not rooting for her?"
Aizawa sat back, trying to ignore the headache the voice hero was already growing.
"Stop putting words in my mouth. We're teachers. It's our job not to have favorites."
Mic grinned grabbing the microphone to get ready for commentary. "I guess favorites are only behind closed doors.," he added, winking at his friend before turning the mic on. He gave comments for Katsuki, thinking over what he'd say for the girl to aggravate his friend.
"ANNNNND THE GIRL I'M PERSONALLY ROOTING FOR, OCHAKO URARAKA!," he yelled in the mic, fans cheering applause her way as she stared confused at the window.
Aizawa raised a hand to smack him, halting as the blond scurried away with a burst of laughter. "That's unprofessional," he snapped.
"Well it's not a lie! I hope she wins for your sake!," he replied, blowing kisses at his friend.
But Aizawa glared down as the match began, thinking it over. "It shouldn't be for my sake," he said low. "It should only be for hers and hers alone."
Each step ached, burns echoing from the radiant explosions that Bakugou gave off until her head spun. Ringing like white noise from a grenade that would falter her vision through the hazy smoke. Everything hurt, slammed onto the hard ground repeatedly but getting back up to face the fight. Losing meant everything if she chose to give nothing, and that's exactly what she hadn't intended. The one person there that truly knew her, had to know what she was choosing. And the effort, giving her all to make people proud of her for once.
It was gruesome, the display before everyone as she was hit back left and right by the powerful blows. The cheering all stopped, and through the fury that shown clear within that determined face, it hit head strong per step. Running full on his way. This was the Ochako he loved to see more than anything, in contrast to the tearful audience he'd been entertaining lately. Seeing her in the limelight of strength was more beautiful than words could even express. The only sad part to any of it was the lack of credit thrown her way as the crowds began to shout, putting Bakugou down for treating her so harshly.
Images of her stained face from crying came to mind, replaced so soon after by this magnificent display that was not expected. Being a complete turn around from the previous night.
The amusement on Mic's face sunk once he saw how cruelly she was being handled, thrown around the cement like a ragdoll with no consideration to her physical state. It became even more uncomfortable at the sight of Aizawa's cool demeanor, not a glimmer of difference in his eyes per hit she would take. It was bothersome to know that he could watch this girl being tortured that way and not even react.
Until an audience member made a loud comment, condemning the actions of her opponent as she wobbled on her legs. Barely able to stand. Self hatred. It was the first thing that came to mind listening to them put down the mental strength she had worked so hard to keep up. It all seemed wasted, a pointless try if no one else could see what she managed to muster up. Had he also felt the same? Were her parents watching?, thinking of her daughter weak?
Ochako felt her body grow heavy, teeth clenched with self pity overlapping the confidence that quickly died out.
Yamada could only nod at his words, speaking into the microphone at how he agreed taking the words out of his mouth. But before he could even finish, Aizawa elbowed him hard in the face grabbing the mic with a look of disgust. Anger flashing over that recently calm face that he hadn't seen in a long time, holding his brushed cheek.
"Who just said he's toying with her!? You a pro? How many years?," he spoke, catching Ochako's attention with a fleet of awe that he'd dare defend her in front of all these people. As he spoke, the light within that barely lit spark grew ever so slightly. Brighter at each word like a candle facing a harsh gust. Maybe now with a new found bravery, the plan would work.
While Mic listened to him intently speaking up for the girl. It was shocking to say the least considering Aizawa made it a point that she truly, was not a favorite student. Nor had he ever had one. This had nothing to do with that. Goosebumps rose along his arms at such passion within his voice, words of a man defending a girl that he could dare say loved. For all he knew, Aizawa must have. Otherwise why else would he go to such extremes?
Any person in the audience that agreed were immediately put to shame by it, feeling guilty for not honoring the girls courage. It was only a handful, Aizawa included, that saw through her plan. With scattered bits of cement floating in the air.
Exhilarating. That's what she felt, looking up at the commentary box for a moment appreciating the praise. It was proof enough, that he knew her. Better than anyone else. Because none of them, not a single person tried to see this immense development within her. Aizawa was everything she needed in a person for each moment, in their own embrace and on the field training as a teacher.
.. Thank you.. I think I can do it now.
Bakugou glared at her as she stood tall, not at all intimated by what she offered. The next phase was set, focusing on him as she clasped her hands together for the final blow. Certain she'd win. Dashing towards him full speed, listening to the shouts in the crowd with all eyes on the stones falling down in amazement. In a sense it didn't matter if she won or not. Ochako had done something she never thought possible, feeling as though in some way she went further than Deku. Finally giving credit to herself on a job well done without relying on anyone's help.
In the blink of an eye, it was shattered. Thrown back across the ground as he set off an extreme explosion beyond comprehension.
Screams of the crowd flooded her senses as her ears rang, trying to adjust to the scene before them. Laying sprawled out on her stomach unable to move as his form became blurry.
Her parents came to mind, their smiles. Kind words complimenting her while they sat around a table as a family one of the last times she could remember and had taken for granite. Their warm embrace, holding her as they exited the playground. Her mother's hot dinner. Her father's large arms tossing her into the air while she giggled. Then suddenly, it settled on him. Aizawa, leaning back in his chair with the light from the lamp on his desk illuminating them. Her head nuzzled under his chin, ignoring the complaints under his breath while he struggled to reach over to grade papers, yet still, allowing her to nap on him.
"D-Daddy…," she muttered, losing consciousness.
For the first time, Mic was utterly speechless. Frozen in place looking down at the girls lifeless form, glancing at Aizawa who didn't share the same reaction. Only giving a strong look, both watching as they carried her away on the medial stretcher. This wasn't anticipated in any way. From first sight she seemed so weak, a short and small little girl that had no drive. A smile so easily wavered by cold words. There were plenty of kids that attended this school in the same way. And it was the perfect lesson learned not to judge a book by its cover.
"I don't know what to say," he uttered, giving out a sigh.
"Good. Keep it that way," Aizawa added smugly, glad that she did what was needed and shown everyone true colors.
He stood, leaving Mic alone in the box to go and see her in recovery. A little part was thrilled to see her now, something that never really happened often regardless of what they were doing. But what could he say, he was truly proud of the fight out there. And she deserved to be told.
He felt a little bad for a bit concluding that she'd let him get to her. Asking himself if he had been too harsh. Mic was to blame mostly for adding to those thoughts, questioning is it really was that bad or not. Ochako overcame, choosing to rise up to the challenge.
The patter of feet made him groan, knowing who followed behind of course. Hurrying to catch up by his side, though Mic held slight concern on his face.
"Why are you coming," he grumbled, not slowing down.
"Because I'm curious if she's okay, duh!"
"She's not your concern."
Mic hadn't added anything further, only quietly following along close to his side. They moved past people catching a break while the other contestants readied, walking past to the food stands in anticipation of the next match. Comments about Ochako was heard throughout them as he smiled slightly, glad to see she was receiving recognition in a positive light.
Through the hoards he caught sight of the other faculty members, ducking down with Mic in tow to blend in not to be noticed and sent back to the box with All Might. Surely they were pushing luck hiding from sight after getting two reprimands from the principal. Though Aizawa didn't care much right now to worry about it. They'd deal later.
Approaching the doors to the infirmary within the arena, Recovery Girl was just exiting. Halting in place to sneak by a hallway for the little woman to leave, having the room to themselves unguarded from prying ears. Actions like this reminded him of younger days with his friend, immature disregard of the consequences.
"I think she's gone," Mic tried to whisper, his quirk quivering out in nervousness.
Aizawa cringed, glaring at the siren behind him. Mic clamped his mouth shut.
They went on, quickly entering the room and shutting the door.
Ochako sat on the edge of the bed, eyes widened at the two men, flicking between each of them. "Uh..Hello," she said shyly.
Catching Mic's attention as he whipped around, that same gracious grin plastered on his face with he approaching first, disregarding Aizawa.
He stalked up before her, studying each part of her face while she shrank down. Mic was so much taller than Aizawa that it was intimidating, towering over her sitting form expecting a loud voice to fly out at any moment.
In return Aizawa finished listening in, annoyed at the weird way Mic presented himself. Knowing damn well the strange things running through that man's mind. It'd probably be enough to scare the poor girl off, since any sane person wouldn't deal with it. For a social person he truly was awkward.
"Stop it," he snapped, pushing past Mic to try and block his view for a moment.
Ochako sat there watching as Aizawa came beside her, a soft expression on his face as he looked at her. "Is something wrong?," she asked, trying to understand why they were acting so odd.
"No lover boy just came to check on you!," Mic cheered, causing both of them to cringe at the sound. Hands flying up to catch his mouth.
"Don't mind him," he added, sitting down next to her. Placing a hand on her lower back.
She stilled immediately, panic flooded her face at the actions in front of Mic with the words he spoke. It all made sense now, that inappropriate sentence he shouted in the intercom that many heard. The sly face the blond was giving them. The secret was out to at least one.
"He.. Knows?," she whispered, gawking at them both.
Mic squatted down resting his chin in the palm of his hands, grinning wildly at her. Like she was an exquisite piece of art. It was uncomfortable to say the least.
"You two looked so cute in the classroom," he teased, causing a blush to rise upon her cheeks.
Suddenly feeling uneasy, her breath hitched. Trying not to hyperventilate thinking to all the many times he could be recalling. There was plenty, but the idea of someone seeing them be intimate in a place that was meant to be a safe haven made her heartbeat rapid. Feeling dizzy, gripping Aizawa's arm for dear life as she leaned into him more. Giving a mortified look at the man below her.
"That's enough," he snapped, his hand holding her back more firmly.
Ochako felt like she couldn't speak, her mind blank with no words coming to mind in how she could explain any version of her side. Or if Mic even expected that from her. All the pieces fit from recent days, not like she had bothered to ask Aizawa what their violent fight was about the one day in front of the class. Sensing it wasn't her business. Was she what caused it? To what extent did he know as well? The man was known for being devious.
"Uraraka," he called, squeezing her back for a second to snap her out of it.
Her eyes whipped to him bewildered, almost jumping back from his touch like normally, it being wrong to do in front of someone else. She felt a little scared at the pair of eyes watching her, scooting away from his hold. There was too much to mull over right now.
"It's alright. Mic's not gunna say a word."
"That's.. Not really the problem..," she added, hugging herself not wanting to meet his gaze.
Aizawa scowled at Mic who smiled sheepishly, knowing he had offended the girl with his presence. Sure she'd have to know eventually, but he didn't feel like arguing with the blond to stay behind.
So he sighed, rising once more to give her space.
"I just wanted to tell you that I saw everything," he began, noticing her begin to nibble on her bottom lip with her eyes on the floor.
"And that I've never been more proud."
Slowly she raised her head, a concerned look with lips parted meeting his cool expression. Trying not to stress her further than what she already was.
It was sincere, a heartfelt moment of words she hoped to hear for so long leaving his lips that sent butterflies in her stomach.
Mic glanced back and forth, grinning hard at the sweet exchange. It was something out of a book he'd read, pairing two favorite characters together at the climax of the story when they would finally accept what it was they had. Grateful as well that they focused on one another, ignoring him, trying to be completely well behaved.
She quivered, a shaky breath released. His silence told her more than what he had verbally, a mental trick only both of them could do to one another. Communication without sentences as they read each other like pages in the small room.
Mic stood, drawing their attention and putting an end to the moment. "Welp! We should get going!," he added cheerfully, giving her a small wink.
She blushed a little, turning back to Shouta.
"I'll see you later," Aizawa said lastly as he followed suit with the other teacher, growling as the man cuddled against him linking arms together once he got close enough.
"I told you she'd be fine! No need to freak out!," Mic exclaimed with dramatic effect, purposely enough for her to hear, looking over his shoulder to see the reaction.
"Why can't you ever stop talking?"
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