"Do you think they're alright?" Kota asked while staring at the forest, picking up his cards and smirking at Present Mic.

"Stop giving me that look little man! You've been doing that for the last hour! I will beat you this time." Present Mic grits his teeth looking at the cards in his hands.

Chuckling Kota just pointed "Kind of hard to believe you when your eye keeps twitching."

"Yo I'm usually good at this game so you're cheating somehow, I just know it! How else do I keep getting beat by a 4-year-old?!"

Looking over his cards, Mr. Aizawa rubs his eyes. "Mic you're the one shuffling the cards."

"What are you saying man?!"

"And for your information I'm six." Kota stuck his tongue out.

Chuckling Tiger stretched his arms out "Are you sure we didn't make it too hard on them this year?"

"They'll be fine." Mr. Aizawa said, placing eyedrops in his eyes while waiting for his turn.

"Wow Eraserhead, you sure have a lot of faith in those kids of yours. But then again, I don't blame you. They are after all the reason why we are all still standing here as much as I hate to admit it." Mandalay smiled.

"Either way, we need to keep pushing them. Regardless of everything they've been through it's still our job to prepare them and expand on what they already know." Pausing, Mr. Aizawa looked towards the forest. "They haven't even graduated and yet…they've already proven to be great heroes. Imagine what more they'll accomplish once they become pros…"

Clutching his chest Present Mice grinned "Oh man I didn't know you could get so sentimental Eraser. You almost had me crying over here."

"Anyways, how are those reports coming along?" he nodded towards a pile of papers next to the voice hero.

"Already done. I do have to say this has been a rather interesting assignment. From what I've seen they really did great."

"Agreed. Although I think Pixie-Bob is out for the count." Mandalay giggled taking a sip of her drink looking at a sleeping Pixie-Bob passed out in the chair next to her.

Pouting and shuffling the deck of cards Present Mic just shrugs "How much longer until they arrive you think?"

"I'd say in about five minutes."

"What really? How do you know?"

Nodding his head towards the entrance of the forest they saw some students coming out one by one completely dirty, wet, tired, and dragging their feet with some even crawling out.

"Wow, what are the odds everyone made it back at the same time?" Mic grins as they make their way towards everyone. "Great to have you guys back!"

"Water…please sir…water…" Mineta slumps to the ground not able to lift his head.

"Right here." Mandalay smiles as she places a large cooler with water for everyone.

"Good job everyone. Alright everyone line up." Mr. Aizawa says as Present Mic stands next to him smiling.

Too worn out everyone did as they were told.

"Ok, now that everyone's here I want to congratulate you all on a job well done. I know this has been a hard three days, but rest assured tomorrow you'll be given the day off to recuperate. Anyone needing to see recovery girl please do so as soon as we are done here. That being said, Present Mic has been keeping tabs on all of you so that we could grade you all accordingly.

"Wait! Umm all of us?" Mina asks with a horrified look.

"Yes. Through the watches we've given you he was able to listen in at times to make sure everyone was ok. As for when you had to complete each task to obtain your flags, we had set up hidden cameras to watch your team's performance as well as how well you worked with your partner and individually. We will start handing out your scores one by one, but I can honestly say you all exceeded my expectations. However," he looks at everyone. "This doesn't mean it's time to slack off, we will still continue training hard before your month-long vacation and finish this training camp. Any questions? Yes Ashido?"

Putting her hand down she starts nervously twirling her hair. "So, um…when you say that you were listening in and making sure we were ok…did that mean all the time?"

Everyone was curiously looking over at the pink girl except for Kirishima who stood stiff not making eye contact with anyone, and Bakugo and Uraraka who tried to keep a straight face.

"No to respect your privacy it wasn't all the time. This was just to make sure everyone was safe and doing what they were supposed to."

Breathing out a huge sigh of relief she slowly looked over at present Mic who was already grinning at her "Mad respects yo."

"WHA…" Horror-struck, she looked at Kirishima who was as red as his hair now while Bakugo covered his mouth trying to contain his laughter.

Lifting a curious brow at Mic, Mr. Aizawa just continued "Anyways, once you get your grades you're dismissed."

Dumping her backpack on one of the picnic tables Uraraka sits down taking a big gulp of her water.

"Hey Uraraka! Mind if I sit here?"

"Sure, thing Deku. You know you don't have to ask." She smiles.

Giving her a sheepish smile "So how did it go?"

"Not too bad, I mean don't get me wrong I'm beyond exhausted…. I think I could sleep for a week." She whined before dropping her face on her bag.

"I know what you mean." He chuckled. "And I think the whole class would agree. Thankfully we get the next day off."

"Yeah, don't be surprised if you don't see me." She giggled.

"Oh, by the way…have you seen Shinso?"

Lifting her head up "No, I haven't. Didn't you guys work together?"

"Well, we did, but what I wanted to ask was if he has talked to you by any chance?"

Blinking up in confusion she tilted her head. "No, why is there something wrong?"

Giving her a reassuring smile, he shakes his head "No, of course not."

"Uraraka, Midoriya I'm glad to see you guys doing well." Iida walks up to them smiling with Todoroki next to him nodding at them in greeting.

"Glad to see you guys made it back too."

"I hope this experience was as invigorating and productive for you guys as it was for me."

"You know…it actually was." Uraraka smiled.

"Really?" Deku asked taking a drink of his water.

Eyeing Bakugo sitting on the ground and leaning against his backpack with his forehead resting on his knees while his usual group of friends were happily chatting next to him. "Yeah…it wasn't too bad…" her eyes softened as she shyly looked down. That was until she saw the familiar black pants her teacher wore. Glancing back up she was met with his usual tired eyes staring at all of them with papers in hand and Shinso standing next to him.

"Alright, I'm going to make this quick. Here are your test results. Make sure you look at them thoroughly to check what you need to improve on as well as what you've excelled at. Keep in mind you were scored individually as well as in teams. As I explained to everyone you all did great."

"Wait are you saying no one failed?" Iida asked the question everyone wanted to know.

"Not this time. As for the four of you." He points at Uraraka, Deku, Shinso and Todoroki "You are a few of the students here who have yet to see Ms. Yano. I would appreciate it if you all took the time to go and speak with her."

"Eh? Do we really have too?" Uraraka scratched the back of head forcing a smile.

"No, you don't have to, but I strongly encourage you to. I know that sometimes it's hard to talk to someone but trust me when I say it helps. I am asking you as your teacher. I want you all to continue moving forward with a clear head." Pausing to glance at their reaction he continues "I know it's a lot for me to ask but if not for me then do it for yourselves."

"Understood." Nodding her head, she watches as their teacher walks off to the other students.

"Um hey guys, I want to talk to Mr. Aizawa really quick before I head off to check on Kota. I'll see you guys later!" Deku waved before running after him.

"Alright looks like we have some free time on our hands for the rest of the day and tomorrow. What say we go hit the lake after we get cleaned up?" Iida suggest as everyone gets up.

"Sounds good to me." Todoroki shrugs.

"Oh uh…I think I'm going to have to pass this time. I just want to go shower and rest for a little while. Maybe I'll see you guys later?" She says picking up her bag.

Smiling Iida nods "Sounds good. What about you Shinso?"

"Count me in. I'll meet you guys there."

"Ok. We'll see you then!" Iida says as they walk off.

"Alright see ya later guys!" Uraraka grins as she turns to head to the girls cabin.

"Hey Uraraka! Hang on!"

Slowly down she watches him catch up next to her. "Shinso what's up?"

Scratching his neck "Well, I just wanted to know if I could walk you to your cabin if that's ok?"

"Oh um-"

"OH, WHAT THE…YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS?!"

Kirishima is nervously laughing trying to calm an irritated Bakugo who was talking with Mr. Aizawa. She couldn't tell what they were talking about as Bakugo had finally managed to somewhat cool down at what their teacher was saying crossing his arms. "What if I don't?"

Feeling eyes on him he quickly catches her staring before glaring at Shinso and looking away.

"Uraraka?" Startled she looks back at Shinso who is still waiting for her answer.

"Oh what? Sorry I must have spaced out for a minute. Yes, that's fine Shinso."

"Great. Here let me." Picking up her backpack he throws it over his shoulder. "I'm sure all of us could use some rest." He smirks before walking next to her and passing everyone.

"Thanks. So how have you been? I feel like I haven't seen much of you this whole trip." She playfully nudges him.

"Well yeah between all the training, this three-day assignment and working with Mr. Aizawa it has been kind of hectic."

"I can imagine. Well, how are you liking the hero course so far?"

"I really do. I've been waiting for this chance my whole life and now that I'm here sometimes I still can't believe it myself. I know I still have a lot of catching up to do but it's worth it."

"I know what you mean. But trust me when I say that you have every right to be here. You have more than proven to everyone that you are a hero too. We weren't the only ones fighting all of them a few months ago…you were there too Shinso."

"Thanks, Uraraka that means a lot."

Stopping by the girls' door she turns around. "Thanks for walking me, Shinso. Let's try and hang out tomorrow!" She grins.

"Oh yeah that reminds me I was going to ask you anyways if you wanted to train with me a little if you were up to it." He scratches his neck.

"It's fine. I'd love to just don't be mad if I don't go easy on you." She laughs while eagerly pumping her fists.

"That's what I'm counting on." He smirks. "See ya then." He waves while walking away.

X

Jolting out of bed and gasping for air Uraraka was covered in sweat. By the time she was finally able to calm her breathing, she looked over at her alarm clock realizing she had only slept a couple hours. Still feeling tired she frowned knowing very well that there was no way she could try and fall back asleep right now. Grabbing her head with shaky hands she felt sweat tripping down her forehead. "When is this just…. going to stop?" she whispered fighting back tears.

Closing her eyes, she heard noises and laughter coming from outside, probably all her friends from class. It was already dark out from what she could tell by staring at her balcony doors. Looking down at her finger pads she was debating on whether she should join them or not. 'I think I rather just be alone for a moment. Maybe that'll help me…plus I don't want to spoil their fun.'

Laying back down defeated she looked over at her nightstand where her bag still lay. Smiling, she pulled out her book, dropping her bag on the floor and looking through the pages. "I can't believe that Bakugo…." She mumbled to herself before realizing what she was doing.

Quickly slapping her hands on her cheeks, feeling them warm up, she started thinking about the last few days again. Still embarrassed every time she thought about the quick kiss she would feel butterflies in her stomach which was weird since it was just a friendly kiss…on the cheek…with Bakugo… "Oh man…." Letting out a frustrated groan she was glad no one was around right now to see her like this. What was even worse? Waking up next to him the next day! She was just thankful that he didn't mention either of those instances.

'Why didn't he?' she though frowning "This is just…ridiculous. I mean why would he? Get a hold of yourself Ochaco this doesn't mean anything." Groaning, she threw herself back down on the bed, closing her eyes and covering her face with her pillow. 'Ok I'm way over thinking this I just need to clear my head. That's all.' Picking up her book she headed over to the girls' balcony.

Breathing in the fresh air is exactly what she needed. Already seeing some of her classmates still laying out by the lake talking while others were just casually walking around, or just playing around. Smiling, she decided to sit down on one of the balcony chairs to relax.

X

Kicking some of the dirt on the ground with his hands inside the front pocket of his black hoodie. Bakugo made his way along the lake stopping as he saw his friends sitting down in front of the lake playing and joking around. He didn't really feel like doing anything and was thinking about just turning around and going back to the cabin until he caught movement on the balcony.

Momentarily surprised at her being there he stopped walking just staring at her. She didn't seem to know he was there since she just started smiling for some reason before walking backwards and sitting down. Scratching his cheek smirking he looked around to see if anyone was close by before walking up.

Already at the edge of her seat biting her bottom lip as she read through a fight scene, she started turning another page.

"Oi round-face!"

"Eekk! Ow!" Startled, she accidentally fell off the chair. Rubbing her bottom and standing up, she slowly walked towards the railing looking down. Widening her eyes surprised to see the scowling boy. "Bakugo?"

Rolling his eyes scoffing "No shit."

"You just surprised me is all. What are you doing here?" Rubbing her arm nervously she looked away.

Tilting his head before shrugging his shoulder and looking around. "Was just walking by. What the hell are you doing anyways? Why aren't you with the rest of the losers?"

"Oh, I just rather be alone right now." She said barely above a whisper.

"Why?"

Shaking her head, she put on a forced smile. "It's nothing. I just rather stay in right now."

Tilting his chin, he gave her a questioning look waiting for her to continue. When she didn't he let out a low growl. "Ok pink cheeks. Spit it out."

Pursing her lips, she looked down for a moment "It's nothing." Before looking back up and showing her usual smile. "Really Bakugo, I appreciate you asking but I'm fine. Why do you always think somethings wrong?"

Not convinced at all, he simply stares at her for a minute before running his hand through his hair and looking off to the side "Because-" hearing his name being called he suddenly stopped talking.

"BAKUGO?! HEY BAKUGO?! Hey Kirishima, have you seen Bakugo anywhere?"

Looking over his shoulder he saw Ema walking up to the red head clearly looking for his whereabouts.

"Fuck!" He groaned looking at the sky before glancing at Uraraka who was tilting her head at him confused. Quickly looking left then right to make sure he couldn't be seen by anyone.

"What's wrong?"

Making his way towards the balcony he jumped up, grabbing onto the rail and pulling himself up while quickly moving her further back from view.

"Eh?!" Panicking, she looked around hoping no one was watching. "Bakugo you can't be here. What are you-"

Before she was able to say anything else he had already covered her mouth with his hand. "Shut up will ya. You're too damn loud."

Glaring up at him she did the next best thing.

"EWW!" Immediately removing his hand and wiping it on his pants in disgust. "What the fuck round-face?!"

Sticking her tongue out she smirked. "Serves you right."

"That's fuckin gross." He grimaced.

Slowly tilting her head to the side curious. "Anyways, what's going on?"

Waving his hand dismissively he walks over to the chair "I just don't feel like dealing with those idiots right now."

"Oh."

Looking around nervously his gaze lands on a particular item on the table before chuckling and looking over at her. "Is this what I think it is?"

Eyes widening, she puffed out her cheeks.

"So…" Taking the book he slowly walks towards her with his cocky grin. "This is what you've been doing instead of hanging out there with your friends?"

"Bakugo…hand it over…nice and easy…" she extends her hand hoping there wouldn't be a repeat of what happened last time.

Giving her a smug look "Why? You ever think that maybe I'd want to read it?"

Placing her hand on her hip she quirked an eyebrow "You want to read it?"

Flipping through the pages he shrugged "Maybe…"

Rolling her eyes, she hugged her shoulders watching him.

"Are you fuckin serious right now cheeks?" he squinted his eye while covering his mouth and reading.

"What?" Taking a step forward she tried to reach it, but he moved further away as he started walking around her.

Looking over at her he started reading out loud. "He pulled her against him and kissed her. Their lips clung together with more urgency. He tasted like bourbon and chocolate cake…" he read while covering his mouth laughing. "Seriously what is up with you and sweets round-face?" He glanced up at an annoyed looking Uraraka. Before flipping through more page's cringing "and what the fuck…bourbon and chocolate cake? That shit sounds nasty as fuck."

"I'm not even reading that right now!" Placing her hands against her cheeks to try and cover her rising blush, Bakugo handed her the book as she clutched it against her chest protectively. "Don't…don't you have somewhere to be?" she hurriedly says before making her way towards the balcony door.

"Not really. Why was I interrupting your reading?" he snickered.

Whirling around to face him she glared. "No."

Trying to suppress his giant grin he slightly frowned. "Why do you read those damn books anyways?"

"None of your business. Not like you would understand."

"And what the hell is that supposed to mean?"

"Nothing. You should go." She starts trying to push him towards the rail.

"No really. What does that mean?"

Trying to move Bakugo was like trying to move a giant brick wall. He wouldn't budge, just looking over his shoulder amused at her.

"It's a romance book Bakugo." She says letting out a defeated sigh.

"So?" he says, giving her a blank look.

"I can't believe I'm having this conversation with you…." She mumbled, feeling even more flustered. "It's not something I'm sure you would ever read or even…"

"Even what hah?!"

"-even understand." She finished.

"Tch, I can be fuckin romantic." he crossed his arms looking offended.

Scratching the back of her neck. "I never said you couldn't…. it's just-"

"You don't think much of me huh?"

Widening her eyes, she shook her head. "No that's not what I meant."

Tilting his chin up he studied her for a moment before scoffing and looking away "I can be fuckin romantic…I just chose not to be."

"What? Why?" she frowned.

Locking eyes with her he started to move away walking towards the railing "Tch. I just don't see the fuckin point of it. All that romance and shit is just a waste of time and anybody who says otherwise is a fuckin idiot."

Clenching her fists "Not everyone thinks the same way, Bakugo."

Scoffing he turns around quirking an eyebrow "You don't? So, you're telling me you believe in all that?"

Puffing her cheeks, she stays silent averting her eyes.

Letting out a low chuckle he looks sideways "Thought so."

Shaking her head, she gives a small smile "but it doesn't matter what I think anyways."

"And why is that?"

"Because…it's different for everybody. Who knows it might work for some people and not for others. The point is that my opinion is my own. Honestly in the end it really depends on the two people involved, and if it works for them…well then, that makes me happy for them. It doesn't mean it's a waste of time."

Scowling he looks at her again "Well then you're an even bigger idiot than I thought."

"Gee thanks Bakugo." She rolls her eyes.

Shaking his head in annoyance he turns "Whatever." Lifting himself up on the rail he hears Kota shout.

"HUH? WHAT? DID YOU SAY YOU WERE LOOKING FOR BAKUBRO? I THINK I KNOW WHERE HE IS…" he narrows his eyes watching Kora smirking up at him.

Gritting his teeth "That little shit…"