Todoroki Meal

Estelle wasn't sure how she ended up in this position. After being reminded with a rude text message that she needed to visit Endeavour, Estelle made her way to Endeavour's desk, which was way too big for an average human. The female figured it was to go over some more intel as they hadn't managed to discuss much as her mind broke over the revealing news about the League's plans. Ever since she walked out of the agency, she had trouble sleeping.

The urge to visit Katsuki at the lodging facilities provided by the agency was at an all-time high, a desperate hope within her that maybe he could soothe the ache in her spirit. But, even though she had a room provided to her, Estelle didn't want him catching on to the news, and she felt the words would slip past her mouth when he asked her what was wrong.

Katsuki still wasn't happy about it and made it known through every phone call that he despised their days apart. His unashamed comments were like a shot of expresso, flooding into her body to the point she felt like a jittery mess. She doubted she would ever get used to his vocal mindset, and that knowledge aggravated her to no end.

It may have done Katsuki some good, though. He improved his skills faster than ever before, from what she heard over the phone. Endeavour was putting his all into training the students, most likely having a change of heart after the news himself. The awareness that Katsuki was focusing on training rather than Estelle invading his space eased the otherworldly female because he required all the tools possible when the time came. It soothed her, knowing it was a solid step in ensuring they would all be safe when the League began their attack.

Plus, he couldn't witness her tossing and turning throughout the night. The nightmares plaguing her had reached their worst, her wide eyes staring into the dark abyss of her bedroom when she shot up from her bed. Furthermore, it wasn't just memories that she saw anymore. The new additions to her nightmares were probably more alarming than her own memories, and it left a sour taste in her mouth, knowing that it meant she had failed in her mission to stay distant from her class.

She wasn't prepared to analyse it, her mind doing everything it could to remain distracted from the scene that continued to play out when her eyes were closed. She would see the students fighting, somehow unable to move as they increasingly lost the battle. Every ounce of her willpower would go to her body, a silent scream leaving her lips as she failed to help the heroes, her classmates and the civilians.

Katsuki's death always seemed to be the last straw before she jerked awake from her bed.

So yeah, Estelle was having a little trouble coming to terms with the news. Powering through her work, Katsuki's call seemed to be her only reprieve before she spiralled into night terrors. She allowed it to fester, not knowing what to do, but at least glad nobody else was at the dorms to witness her weakened state.

"-Dinner tonight."

"Wait, what?" Estelle expressed, snapping out of her thoughts as she regarded the hero like he was insane. She had never expected him to invite her to dinner with his family. It wasn't to say that their relationship hadn't improved because it defiantly had, but his request was undoubtedly out of the ordinary.

Estelle wondered when she had stopped comparing the man to Nyx, his intuitiveness to her needs making it easy to forget the actions he had committed in the past. Sure, they had become some sort of allies, and he had become much calmer in his approach. He even instigated arguments like it was his favourite pastime, and Estelle examined his unpracticed smile like it was alien. She was curious if his cheeks sometimes hurt because of it, but there was never a right time to ask without coming across like some mad woman.

"Why on earth would I join you for dinner?" Estelle continued, realising the number one her had yet to make an effort to respond.

Endeavour was muted, his lips pursing as his gaze fell onto the desk for a moment. Jumping slightly when the man stood up, his hands slamming against the large tabletop, he yelled, "I don't know how to speak to them! It will be much easier if Shoto's friend is there!"

Estelle deadpanned at the answer, utterly unimpressed that he lacked the courage to deal with it alone. As the man practically pleaded with her behind his scowl, she groaned loudly, "Why don't you ask your students!? I'm sure they will be happy giving up their evening to spend time with your broken family!"

The large male bared his teeth for a moment, practically chomping at the bit to begin another round of insults before he paused. Estelle could see the metaphorical lightbulb shine above his head as he composed himself, nodding in agreement as he stated, "That's a good idea. You all can come."

"What?! Hey! No!" Estelle sputtered, her hands raising frantically as her suggestion backfired like a failed lightning-bending manoeuvre.

Ignoring her yell, Endeavour retook his seat, his fingers flicking through the pages of the book in front of him like he wasn't being shouted at by someone who could tear people to shreds. His silence droned on as Estelle clamoured for his attention, awaiting her to tire before he continued smoothly. "Meet me at the house at six. I'll send you the address."

Estelle leaned over the desk, her face red from vexation as she cried, "Don't ignore me! I'm not coming!"

"I'll let Shoto know you will be joining us."

"Hey! Listen to me, you ugly fool!"

"I'm sure his sister will be delighted to see a female friend," Endeavour commented, looking up innocently for a moment before returning his gaze to the pages.

"You stubborn old brute!"

"See you later. Talk to Burnin; she has some intel for you."

Giving up, Estelle's slumped with a pout, a dissatisfaction lurking within her as the pro hero refused to rise to the bait of her insults. He was clever; she could give him that. If he gave her the opportunity, Estelle would find a way to sneak out of the forced obligation entirely. "Ugh, fine."

Estelle wasted no spare seconds to head out to the chaotic scene outside Endeavour's office. His team were always overrun, constantly answering phone calls and rushing out of doors like their asses were flaming. She wondered if the extra workload of spirit intel was making things worse, her frown deepening at the thought of civilians being unable to get the help they needed because of her. She pushed the sentiment away, knowing they could return to how they were within a few months.

Estelle could already see Burnin gleefully staring at her from across the room, her wide grin covering her face as she jittered on the spot. She was over the moon at the chance to talk to Estelle, and Estelle wouldn't be surprised if she had begged the number one hero for the opportunity. Bearing a deep sigh, Estelle stopped before the woman, already finding her speaking excitedly. "Guardian! It's so good to see you! How's my little munchkin doing?!"

Rolling her eyes, Estelle shook her head at the woman. She wasn't the biggest fan of Burnin; the girl was too starry-eyed to actually see Estelle for who she truly was. Estelle was practically dirt beneath the earth; she didn't deserve such idolisation.

Estelle sometimes felt like she was standing next to Katsuki while with Burnin. The sidekick's smile was identical to his, though it didn't warm her as much, but maybe she was a little biased. It wasn't just their matching expressions; Burnin had big aspirations for her hero journey, ones that weren't precisely being number one but the best flame hero in general. She wanted to be remembered in the history books for how hot she blazed.

Despite the two individuals having different goals, the same vigour flared underneath. They were determined, stubborn, and pretty explosive in battle. Even though she abhorred how Burnin acted around her, Estelle couldn't deny that she was a bit fond of her because of those traits she admired. It provided her with some comfort on long days when she didn't see the hot-headed male very much. They could have gotten along if she didn't fawn over her so much.

"Blaze and I were out in Kyosho when we saw Nyx. We snuck back to get a closer look and overheard him talking about the civilians. The egotistical brat seemed to think he had won already! Blaze nearly had to hold me back from flaming him!"

Perking up in interest, Estelle wanted to ensure it was the right person. "He was wearing a red cloak?"

"Yeah! The big bad! He doesn't seem too difficult for you; I'm sure you'll be able to crush him easily!"

Estelle turned her head away, her mouth pursed as she bit back the urge to snap at Burnin for over-complimenting her. Taking a moment, she finally asked, "Did he say anything else?"

"He mentioned three attacks in one day. He wants your forces so thin that you'll fall when reinforcement arrives."

Estelle perked a brow, unease filling her bones as she muttered, "He just said that out in the open?"

"Yeah! He even named all the places he was going to hit! What an idiot!" Burnin' squealed in enthusiasm, her hands raised to her chin as she vibrated on the spot. She had personally begged for the opportunity to inform Estelle, a glimmer of hope brimming that it would get her in her good graces. She couldn't wait for her response, practically melting at the idea of Estelle thanking her profusely for the great intel.

Something just didn't make sense, and Burnin's expectant reaction only worsened the feeling. Estelle couldn't fathom Nyx doing something that idiotic; he was more intelligent than that. Nyx had plenty of hideouts and had to spend time controlling thousands of darklings; he wouldn't stand in the street and voice out his plans. As much as she wanted to take the intel at face value, Estelle had learned to always look underneath.

"What locations?"

"Okayama, Kagoshima, and Kochi."

'Bingo.'

Estelle simmered in her thoughts as the locations registered in her mind, internally wondering how much of an idiot Nyx thought she was. Any logical person would have been able to figure out what he was trying to do if they simply looked at a map, but she was clearly wrong if Burnin had yet to figure it out.

"Estelle?"

Estelle eyed Burnin for a moment, jolting from her inner thinking, before stating, "Hm? Oh, thank you, Burnin. Even if the intel was fake, it has given me plenty of information. I appreciate you looking out for spirits during your patrol. I ask that you keep doing so; it really was invaluable."

Flushing at the slight praise, Burning couldn't wholly detach from Estelle's initial words, a downfall in her heart once she realised that she hadn't impressed Estelle like her thoughts had imagined. "Wait! What do you mean, fake?!"

Estelle allowed the chuckle to dance from her lips, slightly amused by the embarrassed flutter Burnin was encased in. Deciding to help relieve her from the mortification, Estelle explained. "You think he didn't know you were there? It was a trap. If he really wanted to spread us thin, he would have chosen locations such as Hokkaido, Kagoshima and Gifu, but instead, he picked locations in the deep south."

"They aren't spread out?"

"No. Nyx was probably hoping I was stupid enough to listen and plan accordingly. I wouldn't be surprised if he went far north instead, waging war with nobody with no opposition. He wanted us out of the picture entirely, with no time at all to be able to get to him."

Stunned, Burnin gaped at Estelle like a fish that always looked surprised. She couldn't form a coherent response, completely taken aback by Estelle's analysis. "W-wha-"

Estelle bit her lip to prevent another laugh from leaving. Nodding her head thoughtfully, she humoured her, "You're right, at least. He is an idiot for thinking I would fall for that."

Broken out of her daze, Burnin lurched forward, her hands raised as she shrieked, "Oh my god! You are amazing! How did you deduce that?!"

The humour on Estelle's face softened, her eyes lowering as her shoulders dropped slightly from the exclamation. She could feel her heart harden at the words, her mouth opening for a moment to completely refute the compliment. She decided against it, turning her head away as she muttered, "Because you have to think like the enemy to defeat them. Predict their moves, and you'll always come out on top."

"That's a little unnerving. Are you saying you have to think like a villain?"

"As much as it might be scary. You should start trying; you'll be able to notice more, predict patterns, and instinctively know where they might be going next. It's an invaluable asset during battle because sometimes it's the difference between winning and losing. Logic and gut instincts meld together, and you won't fail."

"But, how do you prevent yourself from going dark if you have to think like them? Doesn't it...I don't know...terrify you?"

Estelle felt a glimmer of satisfaction seeing the idolisation of her crumble a little, her gut feeling at ease at the knowledge Burnin would see her for how she really was. Estelle wasn't a good person and should never be deemed as such because she had done just as bad as the villains yet never seemed to be regarded as one.

"No. I do what I must to succeed. If I have to darken my mind or blacken my heart for the greater good, so be it. It doesn't make me any better than them, but I get viewed as good just because I'm on the side of the light. It's hypocrisy; Remember that."

"It counts for something, though. Being on the light side; means you have some moral code and the will to keep going. I think that's pretty admirable."

What the hell was it with these people? No matter how hard she tried to show them how rotten she was, they always turned it into something positive. The satisfaction of seeing her conception pulverised and Estelle was disappointed to know that Burnin's opinion hadn't changed.

Estelle smiled a pained, discontented, fragile smile that twisted Burnin's heart. The sidekick could only observe the female nod slightly as she quickly turned and left, the smile dropping from her lips as she did so.

Burnin had been there for the initial hero's meeting and was stunned by the sheer power that radiated off Estelle as she spoke to most agencies around japan. The sidekick was there when the otherworldly hero declared that she would protect them, yet shared that she had previously been in the midst of war.

Seeing Estelle and the switch in her demeanour deflated Burnin, and the sidekick could only question how bad it must have been for her to deem herself unworthy. Clearly, her awe of Estelle wasn't justified in her eyes. With that, her history must have been more gut-wrenching than she realised.

It was no wonder she avoided her like the plague.

It was dark outside the Todoroki house as Estelle patiently awaited the arrival of the others. Hearing a yell in the air, Estelle bit back her smile as her eyes trailed over to the shadowy figures heading towards her. She didn't even have to see Katsuki's face to know what his expression would be like, but she could already suspect that his brows were furrowed, his aggressive snarl on his face as he screeched, "What the crap?!"

Estelle's smile broadened into a grin when another voice joined him, considerably calmer than the blonde's. "My sister invited us all for dinner."

"Why the crap?!"

Shaking her head at the repeated sentiment, their faces began to come into Estelle's view as Shoto responded, "Because she wanted to meet my friends."

Swivelling his body, Katsuki raised his hand up to a point, his eyes feral as he howled, "You march in there right now and tell her we aren't and never will be friends! Hear me!"

Swallowing the chuckle, Estelle paused when Shoto overlooked Katsuki entirely, his eyes connecting with hers for a moment before recognition filled his expression. Giving her a small smile in greeting, Shoto ignored the inquisitive looks of the males around him as he quickened his pace, his feet stopping before Estelle with a question. "I didn't know you were coming. I'm glad, though. Fuyumi had said she wanted to meet you."

Widening her eyes, Estelle was honestly stunned that they were even aware of her existence. Sure, they must have seen her on the news, but his comment felt like he addressed her as a friend rather than a strange otherworldly being. The idea alone bewildered her, so giving an awkward smile, she muttered, "Yeah, the old man gave me an invite. I'm sure it will be nice to meet them."

The others had finally reached them, their heads moving back and forth as they listened to the conversation between the two students. Ignoring that Katsuki was biting his tongue hard enough that it could bleed, Estelle observed how Shoto turned his head to his father in wonder. "He did?"

The number one hero grunted in answer, his eyes not betraying anything as he moved to open the door. "She needed a break from everything. What better way to do that than by eating some of Fuyami's cooking?"

Raising a brow at his explanation, Estelle wondered what Shoto's response would be if she had admitted that the old brute had demanded her to come with him simply because he struggled to speak to his own kids. Though, the earnestness on his face made her question if it had just been an excuse the entire time. Shrugging as she realised it didn't matter, Estelle finally acknowledged the others with a nod before the door slid open swiftly.

Feeling warmth brush against her shoulders, Estelle instantly recognised that Katsuki was by her side. Peeking her sights to the right, the pleasure that she was correct lingered, and she noted how the frown on his face emphasised how disgruntled he was to be here.

The woman at the entrance beamed, her voice chiming into the cold air as she ushered them inside. "Come on in! Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to drop by for a bite! I'm Fuyumi, Shoto's older sister! It's nice to meet you all!"

Estelle disregarded the polite greetings around her, her globes unable to part from the blonde when she pinpointed how his aggravation only worsened the longer he was forced to endure pleasantries. Her shoulder's trembled when Katsuki mustered up the ugliest expression she had ever seen on him, his body slumped in defeat as he cried, "I hate this!"

Everyone seemed to ignore him, furthering the humour thrashing against her stomach. Biting her lip, a strangled sound managed to leave her lips as they followed Fuyumi down the corridors. The ruby-eyed glare directed at her in warning was enough for the chuckle to slip, and the blonde gave up when he realised that anything he did would be funny to her at this point.

The food had already been laid on the table, and Estelle's body was forcibly moved between Izuku and Katsuki. Narrowing her eyes at the blonde, he was quick to look away innocently, eying the decor around the room as he avoided the fact he had used her as a human barrier.

The relationship between Katsuki and Izuku was a curious one, and Estelle found herself wondering about their history once again. She had never asked, mainly because Katsuki constantly got annoyed whenever the green-haired male was brought up in the conversation. She resolved to ask him about it another time when Fuyumi vocalised, "Let's start introductions again! I'm Fuyumi, and this is my older brother, Natsuo."

Estelle could see the resemblance between Shoto and his brother, but his demeanour made it easy to notice that he was entirely different in attitude. It was easy to understand the reasons for this, but it was still startling to have the analysis confirmed by his casual tone, which Shoto never seemed to have. "Hey, what's up?"

"Shoto, this is where you introduce your friends." Fuyumi gently prodded, her tone almost motherly as she reminded him of his manners.

"Right. These are my classmates, Midoriya, Estelle and Bakugo."

Estelle gave a half-hearted wave, her eyes unable to part from Natsuo as his narrowed eyes seared into his father. Flickering her eyes to Endeavour as he sat there like a log, Estelle nearly lamented out loud at the fact he was brooding at the table. Seriously, his dominating presence wasn't helping him much here, and his silence furthered his doom as the room fell quiet.

All the progress Estelle had seen over the last few months had been obliterated as the man sat in quiet contemplation. Scrutinising him further, Estelle wondered if he had felt so lost that he fell back onto his instincts, which looked infuriated all the time. Everyone at the table glanced at the otherworldly female for a moment as she sighed, giving a disappointed shake to her head as she regarded Endeavour like she was a mother trying to make her child have friends and failing miserably. Thankfully, Fuyumi tried to rescue everyone from the suffocating atmosphere, "Anyways! Let's dig in before the food gets cold!"

Scooping into her meal after giving thanks, Estelle froze after she took a bite of her meal, her eyes turning wide at the exquisite flavours having a party in her mouth. Even though Katsuki's meal always grabbed the top spot due to the warmth it gave her, Fuyumi's cooking was fucking delicious. Slurping up the food as if it was the last meal she would ever have, she dismissed Katsuki's elbow smashing into her side, unbothered as her mouth was contently full.

Nodding in agreement as Izuku rambled about the taste, Estelle's cheeks lifted as Fuyumi held her hands up in gratitude, a broad smile on her face as she thanked them for the compliments. Scarfing down the food, she absentmindedly listened to the conversation around her, her head perking up when Natsuou spoke, his voice causing her spoon to halt in her mouth just like her happiness did.

"Endeavour might have kept you from eating my food. He always did keep a close eye on your diet."

Everything screeched to a slam, everyone gaping at each other with unease as they struggled to figure out an appropriate response to Natsuo's comment. Estelle lowered her eyelids, her sights trailing over the male as his fists tightened on the table. Softening from the image, Estelle could tell that despite how he was voicing his comments, his eyes were telling her everything she needed to know.

They burned with deep resentment. It was as if the fire against Endeavour never wained, and he couldn't stand the view of the old man. It lacked any healing, and from the looks of it, he wasn't prepared to start. He detested Endeavour, and even though Estelle had seen the transformation in him, the female couldn't blame Natsuo. Endeavour was a shithead before.

The old man refused to respond, his eyes meeting his sons before falling to the table in shame. Fuyami seemed to take this action as her time to save them again, her question interrupting their stillness. "Shoto, what do you eat at UA?"

Estelle bit back her laugh when Shoto responded, "Cafeteria food."

The number one hero seemed to shake himself out of the funk he was encased in as he finally sat straight. Growing a pair of balls, he angled towards his oldest son, declaring, "Natsou, I would like to try your cooking next time."

Estelle's eyes batted back and forth, her lips pursing as the emotion in Natsou's eyes flared even hotter. Taking a breath to compose himself, the male slowly placed his bowl on the table, his body shifting to leave the room. "Thanks for the meal, sister. But, I'm done."

"Wait!"

"Sorry. But I can't do this."

As the door slid shut behind Natsou, Estelle felt her heart hurt from his parting words. Natsuo needed time; they couldn't push him. So, overlooking the room's discomfort, Estelle returned to eating fast as if nothing had ever happened. Choking when another elbow collided into her stomach, Estelle glowered up at Katsuki, her cheeks puffed up from the plethora of food she shovelled in.

Katsuki opened his mouth, snapping it shut when he realised it wouldn't be right to yell. Still, his glare did all the work for him, his head nudging towards the Todoroki family with his own personal annoyance. Yet, the message remained, 'Manners.'

Damn. Even though Katsuki was the least-mannered person she had ever met, he was chiding her over her actions. Taking pause at that fact, Estelle realised her efforts must have been worse than she thought if he was scolding her, so as much as she hated it, she put the plate down with a pout.

It wasn't fair. If Endeavour could drag her here, the least he could do was let her eat in peace, dammit! What kind of break was he insinuating earlier?!

The rest of the meal was more awkward than the first half, but Estelle slowed her eating pace as she listened to the brief chatter around the table. Fuyumi had directed a few questions at her, and Estelle wasn't shocked by the basic intrigue of her presence. Though, she did note that this girl was genuine, her kind aura pouring out of her as she tried to include her father.

"Shoto told me he asked you out on a date!" Fuyami chimed at one point.

Endeavour's head seemed to snap up at the declaration, his eyes sparkling the most it had ever been since they had arrived at their home. Leaning over, his voice was steady as he tried to hide his excitement, "He did? Nobody informed me of this?"

Shoto's face was entirely disinterested as his gaze drifted to a flushed Estelle and the seething male next to her. Katsuki was on the edge of detonating, his hands tightening around his spoon, so it slowly bent. "Yes, but she rejected me."

Turning another shade of red as two members of the Todoroki family stared at her in query, Estelle stuttered as she tried to formulate a clear answer. Feeling embarrassment flood her bones, Estelle looked at Katsuki in desperation only to find that he was subtly telling her she was on her own. She eventually managed to muster out, "Ah, yes. We decided that romance wasn't on the card for us two. We are good friends."

Katsuki grinned in satisfaction as Shoto nodded in agreement, adding, "And we are soba buddies."

Endeavour deflated at the explanation yet did his best to not let it show as he murmured, "That's disappointing. But you feel what you feel. We cannot change that."

Stunned, Shoto murmured inquisitively, "So, you won't tell us to get married anymore?"

"He, what?!" Katsuki hollered, nearly standing up as his teeth lifted to a snarl whilst he regarded the entire Todoroki family.

Endeavour skipped the blonde's yell just like Estelle's earlier in the day, giving a mild nod to his son as he answered truthfully. "You may choose who you wish. I will not interfere."

The two-toned male couldn't find a response, his face utterly baffled as he stared at his father in disarray. Fuyami seemed just as astonished, her mouth gaping before it became a beaming grin of joy. "That's great!"

Estelle watched the scene with pride, registering how Endeavour nodded, seemingly pleased to show that he had somehow changed to two of his kids. Not wanting to linger on the topic for fear it would come across as boasting, Endeavour swiftly changed the subject.

Katsuki wouldn't allow Estelle to help wash up, a mutter leaving his lips at how she was useless in the kitchen. After shrugging at his insult, Estelle waited outside as farewells were given, her body moving back and forth slowly in contemplation. But, whilst she stood in the dark, her eyes found a flicker of white in the distance. Following her instincts, Estelle found Natsou sitting by a tree, a bag over his shoulder as he prepared to leave.

Estelle could see that he wanted to be alone from the look in his eyes. So, wasting no time, her body immediately swung around to walk the other way. She had yet to take a step before Natsou's voice chimed into the night sky. "Hey, wait. You're that Guardian everyone talks about in the news, right?"

Turning around to face him, Estelle nodded slowly, "Yeah."

She could see the perplexity on his face, a profound question lingering on the tip of his tongue. He seemed to bite the bullet, eventually asking, "Why'd you choose that old man's agency? You could have picked anyone."

Tilting her head in thought, Estelle frowned at the query. There was the logistical side of it all and how it would have benefited her for the war, but she could see Natsou had no care for that type of answer. The truth of his question was hidden underneath; he wanted to know about Endeavour.

Estelle decided to approach this differently: "I hated the man from the first moment I saw him. He was arrogant and refused to see the error of his ways. He reminded me too much of my own father figure."

Stunned by the sheer honesty, Natsou dialled back with broadened eyes, another question already leaving his mouth. "So, why the hell would you-"

"Because he gave me hope."

"What?"

Estelle paused, her heart feeling uneasy as the truth began to leave her lips. She refused to look at him, unaware if he could stand her reasonings. "A part of me always wished my father figure would change. No matter how many times he belittled, manipulated and tortured me, I hoped he would change. I will never be able to forgive him, but I do wonder what it would have been like to receive an apology, to see him repent for the pain he had caused. I will never get that.

Seeing your father do what Nyx never could, gave me hope. Hope you will receive the peace you all need but will never ask for. Hope for others out there that they'll get something I never got to have. Hope that people can change; I see it in him every day, moving at a slow pace to where he needs to be. I'm glad Shoto will get that chance, and I'm happy that his siblings will, regardless of whether you forgive him."

Natsuo leaned back onto the tree as of he was bracing himself. Staring at her like she was an alien creature who had just told him the world was flat, it was evident that he couldn't believe it. "Even though he killed my brother?" He eventually gritted out, desperation in his tone as he regarded her.

Estelle froze in place, her adrenaline thrumming through her veins at the fact that Shoto had another brother who had died. She knew why he had asked; he wanted validation of his feelings. Natsuo wanted a person who could see good in Endeavour to know it all and confirm his view of the man. Estelle's heart smashed into the ground, her eyes pained as she viewed Natsou with more understanding than he could comprehend.

It seemed she had more in common with the Todoroki family than she thought, the picture of Kiko in her mind as her face turned distressed. The expression seemed to floor him, his breath hitching as Estelle responded softly, "I don't know what happened, and I have no right to know. But I can understand your rage a lot more than you think. Sometimes, it's not about forgiving the other person by being selfless. Sometimes, forgiveness is selfish because it can help you move on.

You are in pain, and you can choose how you want to respond to the changes Endeavour is making. Look within yourself, and reflect on what you want, so that you can begin healing. That's the main priority. There is no time limit on what you decide to do with forgiveness."

Natsuo pursed his lips tightly, the gentle words hitting his core so profoundly that his throat bobbed. Attempting to reign his emotions in, the male faltered when he realised he had accidentally entered a therapy session with a girl he had only just met. Giving a weak smile, he muttered, "Hah, sorry. I'm not usually like this."

Estelle shook her head in disagreement, her smile relieving Natsou of guilt as she replied, "There's no need to apologise. You're talking to someone who goes to therapy every week; sometimes, you need to talk about it."

Leaning forward curiously, he questioned, "You do? Does it help?"

"I'd like to think so," Estelle murmured, unsure if she should leave the conversation at that.

Natsuo seemed to have another idea, his voice just as quiet as he asked, "You said Nyx. Isn't that the guy on the news?"

Estelle sighed deeply, the full depths of her despair hidden by the shade of the clouds. The sounds of crickets filled the air, and Estelle could only croak out, "Yes. He is my enemy."

Natsuo stared at Estelle, utterly astounded by the revelation that the enemy she was fighting was the same one who had caused her so much misery. How she had managed to talk about forgiveness in any sense was utterly perplexing, but he had a feeling that Estelle was probably on the same boat he was. She was working on it; she said it herself; she was going to therapy.

Maybe, he should work on it too.

Feeling sombre from the news, he mumbled, "I'm sorry."

Despite the dark conversation, Estelle felt strange as she looked into the globes that reflected her own. Her eyes turned to half-moons as she smiled, the atmosphere around them feeling safe as they connected through their tortured pasts. "I'm sorry too. Truly. You are strong to have faced what you have. Keep that strength within you, and that fire will never go out."

Taking a few moments to simply be in each other's presence, they knew it was time to depart as it was getting late. Estelle and Natsou gave each other a nod of farewell before Estelle went and found Endeavour, Shoto, Izuku and Katsuki standing at the entrance. She instantly winced at their downtrodden and guilty expressions. They must have overheard the conversation, and as much as Estelle wanted to be irritated that they eavesdropped, it wasn't their fault. Still, she was not prepared to discuss it further.

Endeavour seemed to figure that out with one look, his chin jutting out as he sternly spoke, a light hint of emotion in his voice. "It's getting late. Why don't you head to my agency instead for some rest? It'll save you the long travel."

Shaking her head, Estelle mumbled, "Thanks for the offer, but I'll just fly back."

Rolling his eyes, the hero knew it was useless to argue with her. "Hmph, fine."

"Wait a second! She already had a room?!" Katsuki screamed, his fist waving back and forth in fury as he stared into Estelle's soul.

Estelle winced, her sight avoiding the rest of the males observing the scene with raised eyebrows. Giving a meek smile, she nodded in farewell, "I'll see you guys later."

As she flew into the distance, she could hear Katsuki screech into the abyss, "Estelle! You brat! Come back here, dammit!"

Estelle heard the door slam open before she saw it, the sound of footsteps thundering across the ground as it headed closer to her. She could barely look up before she felt hands pushing against her shoulders, her back slamming against the duvet as her sights met the ceiling. Before Estelle could even ponder how her light was crooked, the view was impaired by Katsuki's stern face, ruby eyes glaring into her own with so much intensity that the female wanted to shy away. She didn't have to ask; she already recognised where his annoyance stemmed from.

Still, she made no effort to speak as Katsuki became a ticking timebomb. Staring into her soul, he twitched in aggravation as he realised Estelle wasn't going to give. Unable to wait any longer, his gravelly voice hit her ears as he lowly hissed, "You had a room at Endeavours?!"

Estelle bit her lip as she nodded, her eyes flickering over his features as Katsuki gnashed his teeth in frustration. She watched as his gaze trailed down, eyeing the necklace that lay limp on her neck for a moment in satisfaction before returning to his previous anger. "You serious?! I've been groaning in your ear for days since I couldn't see you, and you could have just visited?!"

Estelle gave a soft smile to hide the nudge to her heart. As much as she wanted to explain her reasonings, she couldn't. Plus, she needed the last few days alone to grasp what happened, and to be honest, she probably needed a few more to accept that this boy, her class, was going to war.

Hoping to distract him from the deep scrutinisation, Estelle cupped the side of his cheek with affection as she shook her head. "You were busy training. It's okay that we missed a few days."

"Tch, says you. I had nothing to cuddle," Katsuki grumbled petulantly, his head falling into her chest with a pout. Estelle immediately darted her hands up to curl into his locks, her lips broadening as she heard the muffled groan vibrate through her shoulders.

"More like suffocate," Estelle teased, giggling when Katsuki pinched her side in punishment.

"Shut up, woman. Seriously, though, you never called me once throughout the night. Were you just sleeping soundly without me, hah?"

Estelle, glad that Katsuki's face was stuffed into her collarbone, bit her lip as countless thoughts flowed through her brain. Honestly, though, she was too content to have Katsuki holding her like this, and the idea of bringing up her chaotic nightmares was a far cry from what she actually wanted to do, which was to sit there and enjoy the peace his presence brought.

Katsuki's heart panged at the silence, his chin digging into her as he moved to survey her expression. Recognising that her eyes were glazed over in deep thought, Katsuki scowled at Estelle, who was holding her words back. Forcing himself to be patient, Katsuki waited with agitation as Estelle failed to give him any type of answer. Deciding not to push it since he was back with her now, Katsuki growled as he yanked Estelle's body, so her head was against her pillow, his leg wrapping around her own as he cocooned her frame. "What about Endeavour, hah? You never told me he proposed to you!"

Snorting, Estelle grinned as she quipped, "Because it was stupid."

Pursing his lips in thought, Katsuki conceded her point. It was stupid. "Of course it was. You have me."

Feeling the side of her lip curl upwards, Estelle leaned forward as she asked, "You sure about that?"

Snarling, the hands wrapped around Estelle's body tightened, the sound of Estelle's choked breath leaving her as he removed all the air from her lungs. "You little brat! I'm not even back for five minutes, and you're already testing my patience!"

Estelle puffed out, gasping when he loosened his grip, "Is someone all fired up?"

"Don't use your puns on me right now! I can't laugh if I'm angry!"

Estelle's body jolted up slightly as she chortled, her eyes sparkling as she continued, "Sizzle down, Ruby. The proposal was rejected the moment he asked. Shoto rejected it too."

Pouting, Katsuki quickly added, "Yeah, but then the dumbass asked to court you!"

"I rejected him too."

Grinning at Estelle's harsh words, Katsuki felt his soul heat at her blatant dismissal of the half-and-half male. He pridefully expressed, allowing the cackle to leave his chest, "Hah! Suckers! You ain't rejected me yet!"

Estelle halted, her eyes moving to the ceiling for a moment as she pretended to ponder the notion. Before any attempt could be made at riling him up, Katsuki's hand had immediately slammed against her mouth, his face inches away from her as all laughter left his body. "Don't you dare!"

If Estelle didn't see the glimmer in his eyes, she would have stopped immediately from how quickly he tensed. Instead, she laughed into his palm, grinning when he relaxed, finally removing his hand from her face with a matching smile, "Alright, alright!"

It was the middle of the night when Katsuki felt Estelle jolt from her bed, her shuttered breathing filling the air for a moment before the sound became muffled. Eyeing her frame sitting up, Katsuki frowned when he noticed her hand tightly pressed against her mouth.

He was about to reach his hand out to her like he always did on nights like these, but her following action held him back. Whirling her head to view him, Katsuki instantly shut his eyes as he pretended to be asleep; unsure of his actions, he wondered why he was even doing so.

He couldn't make sense of it; hadn't they already gotten past this stage? But something about it felt different. Maybe it was because Estelle was actively attempting to hide the nightmare, which she had never done before. Why was she muffling her sounds? What had changed that she felt she could no longer come to him for support?

Feeling the bed dip as she moved, Estelle shuffled back into position, her body nearly cuddling into him for aid yet preventing herself from diving ahead for what she wanted.

Katsuki's brain rattled in his thoughts, his inner voice screeching out in fury as he witnessed her want his comfort and unable to take it for herself. All she had to do was ask, dammit. He could give her everything she damn well pleased; he had no qualms about it. So why wasn't she taking it?

Feeling a breath of a kiss against his forehead, Katsuki did everything he could to maintain the fact he was sleeping. He desperately hoped she was too tired to use her earth-bending and notice his heart beating frantically against his chest. Thankfully, as the silence droned on, he could feel her gaze on his face, every ounce of his willpower placed into putting on the best show possible. Breathing a sigh of relief when she never said anything, Katsuki nearly failed right then when a whisper of words slipped into his ears.

"I won't fail you. I'll make sure you'll all be safe. Promise."

Feeling her head hit the pillow, Katsuki opened his eyes when her body shifted on the bed to face the wall, his sights searing into her back as his heart fell. What the hell did that mean? Seriously, that could be applied to anything! She just had to use the vaguest phrases possible.

Biting back his scowl, Katsuki tried to think of all the possible ways it could be applied. She could be talking about her war with the spirits, referencing the fact she thinks going home would keep them safe (Which everyone frankly finds ridiculous) or talking about something else entirely.

Knowing he wasn't going to figure it out, Katsuki could feel deep within his soul that it was most likely the same reason she hadn't reached out to him when he was at the agency. Forcing himself not to think about her nights alone, Katsuki pretended his sleeping state had pulled her into his embrace, his soul feeling satisfied at the content breath that left Estelle's lips. If she couldn't take his affection for herself, at least Katsuki could give it in any way he could.

'You can try to shut me out, but you can't.'