For the first time.


You passed the hero certification test. It was oddly simple compared to how much work you put in your after school training sessions. Although, a part of you would miss them. The students were all currently off on their field training at various agencies. You knew because Aizawa had talked to you about it. He didn't want to show it, but you could tell how proud he was of his class.

"Of course Torodoki got so many offers. Even that loudmouth Bakugou got a ton despite his personality. Did you know Midoriya got one offer too?" He went on about all of them. You couldn't help but grin. He was like a secretly adoring uncle. That was a few days after the festival.

Today though, the principal was excited about something, and asked you for a favor.

"I'm so sorry, but it is important". You only had to show up to pick up a package. No big deal. You made your way into the building, checking the address once more. You were surprised to see the entire UA staff there cheering.

"Congrats!" Present Mic had led the welcome, and despite your eardrums ringing from his loudness, you were happy. The principal formally thanked you for a job well done at the sports festival. You laughed, saying nothing had happened anyway. He also presented you with a recommendation of teaching, meaning you could officially work beginning next week. You couldn't thank him enough. Everyone was there. They shook your hand or patted you on the back. You even saw Toshinori wandering around, politely declining drinks from the bar. You ran into Kayama who elbowed you and pointed toward a dark corner. You had to catch yourself when she pushed you forward and winked. You found yourself looking at a tall stranger.

"Congratulations." The voice was low and familiar.

"Aizawa?" He leaned up against the wall lazily, sipping on something alcoholic. The bandages were gone. You blinked up at his face for the first time.

"You too! A face is a good look for you" You tentatively reach up to a neat scar under his right eye, but couldn't bring yourself to touch him. "Is this.. something new?"

He sort of "Ah's" in agreement. It was strange. Like you were talking to someone completely new for the first time. It made you nervous. A large group of drunk teachers whisked you away before you could say anything else. There was karaoke and more alcohol than you knew what to do with. You had a drink, though it wasn't something you did often. Everyone cheered wildly as you downed a celebratory shot. You wrinkled your nose afterward, the sake too strong. You left the rest of the shots to the others, choosing to nurse a glass of wine for the rest of the night. You watched as Mic and a few other teachers had a blast singing various songs and showing off. Truly a great party.

It was late by the time everyone was leaving. Aizawa found you again, sitting by yourself in thought. The glass was nearly empty, and you had a nice buzz going.

"You don't have to stay and clean up, its been paid for." He stood a just a few steps away.

"Oh, still here?"

"I'm Hizashi's ride home." Mic had been drinking quite a bit, most likely passed out in a corner somewhere. Without the bandages you noticed his five-turned-ten-o'clock shadow. On any other person you would have said it was overly scruffy, but you found the look suited him. You were content to watch the way the darkness hid his face, and how his mouth moved when he spoke. It was Aizawa, but not. You wanted to get used to it. He seemed self conscious about the attention.

"Congratulations on officially becoming a UA instructor."

"I think you told me that already." You laughed at him, the alcohol helping your amusement along.

"Shouta." You were definitely tipsy. You had never called him by his first name before, not sure if you two were close enough. He looked startled, but he didn't complain. "I wanted to say thank you. For everything." You gave him a small smile. Your phone buzzed, letting you know your taxi had arrived. You stood up to leave.

"I'm glad we could become friends."

Aizawa was quiet as he watched you go.


Short and sweet, everyone. I've been frantic hoping for some reviews, but I'm glad that the story is getting readers still.

The next update will be longer.