Disclaimer: I do not own Boku no Hero Academia.

Class 2-A were practicing their Quirks the next day. Although it was nothing spectacular besides a simple Quirk exercise, Ayame held off on her Quirk. She needed some surprise factor during the festival! She can't let her classmates and potential rivals know!

At lunch, Ayame met up with Midoriya and a few others as always. Somehow, it had become a common occurrence for Ayame and Hotaru to eat with a few Class 1-A members. It wasn't uncomfortable or odd or anything but—it had been relaxing and fun.

Ayame noticed that there were a few others that preferred not to eat with them. Kirishima tried to convince Bakugo plenty of times but obviously the blonde stormed off in anger. Not only him but, Todoroki was often hiding somewhere too. Otherwise, Ayame had eaten with the others at least once already.

Thinking of Todoroki, she did not encounter him again during the morning commute. Not that she was paying attention to him or anything but—Ayame still felt a bit embarrassed from her outburst yesterday. She told herself to just be normal again and gave him some space; there's still the rest of the school year for her to get along with everyone.

"…and so the summons might be correlating with senpai's mind. When forced in a pinch, senpai was able to create that giant kitsune and control it to some degree. But there's also a huge setback; she can barely move afterwards. During our match, she was able to summon more again—how long is the interval each time between her summons? What else can she do?"

Ayame sweated, blinking at Midoriya muttering to himself while reviewing his notes on an old notebook. He seemed to be oblivious to everything else around him, even the food in front of him, and Ochako let out a laugh at Ayame's dazed expression.

"Deku-kun, senpai is staring," Ochako tapped the boy's shoulder.

"H-huh?!"

Midoriya looked up to see everyone stare at him. A blush spread over his freckles and cheeks, peering at Ayame shyly and she let out a laugh too. Ayame leaned over to see the notebook, amazed at the small sketch Midoriya had made of her and the dozens of little notes besides it.

"Wow! You're pretty spot on with your analysis," Ayame said in wonder, this was the first time someone had been so thorough with her Quirk. Although Yume had often pitched in to help, she only offered suggestions and not analysis.

"I-I like studying Quirks," Midoriya reasoned shyly, "Can you tell me more about your Quirk, senpai?"

"Sure!" Ayame chirped and disregarded her own food. "Let's see…so you got the main basics down! I am able to summon creatures from my mind and before, it was limited to one. The size always varies but it wasn't until recently I can create that giant one. I get headaches from the overuse but it doesn't usually last for long!"

Midoriya nodded his head. "I noticed that the stronger they are, the more complicated their smoke trails were."

"Oh? Yeah!" Ayame agreed in an afterthought. "I guess the bigger they are, the longer it takes to manifest too. But, I've been practicing with little creatures like this."

With a wave of her hand, two little butterflies appeared again. It floated along her fingertips and wrist slowly as a real butterfly would. Midoriya reached out to grasp one by the wing, surprised at the odd texture of it. It was similar to a ghost as they were able to see through the body but—it felt like watery-air. He knew he was able to hold onto it like water, but it also felt like he's not touching anything at all.

"I've been wondering too, senpai," Yaoyorozu joined in the conversation, one hand reaching out to have the second butterfly land on her hand, "Are your summons…sentient?"

Ayame blinked.

"Huh?"

"During our fight…you left your ookami to chase after us," Yaoyorozu began, "Back then, you shouldn't have been able to see us with all that smoke around. But, the ookami was able to track us down and operate without your guidance."

"Uh," Ayame put a hand to her chin, thinking, "That's a good question."

"You don't know?!"

Ayame startled at Midoriya, Iida, Ochako, and even Yaoyorozu's shout. She rubbed the back of her head awkwardly, laughing shyly with a shrug.

"I-I guess I base it off on the general information I know about them…?" Ayame attempted to explain. At the sight of everyone's still stunned expression, she elaborated. "S-so like! You know that one show about the ninjas? The kitsune is based off of the kyuubi! S-so that's why it's all big and strong…?"

They stared at her attempt in explaining and saw the slightly flustered expression on her face. Ochako had a dopey smile on her face as Ayame continued to wave her hand animatedly.

Ah…senpai sure is easy-going.

Midoriya took what little information she gave and nodded, jolting it down quickly in his trusty notebook.

"So…they may act like the general creatures you see but you are also able to command them," Midoriya paused and looked up, "I think…because they are ingrained in your subconscious, they are able to move without your constant command."

"Oh! Is that how it is?" Ayame asked excitedly. That would explain the kyuubi saving me!

Midoriya waved his hand shyly, "W-well, t-that's just how I see it."

"Hmm but I'm still a newbie trying to summon more or also bigger ones," Ayame thought. "Does that have something to do with my mentality?"

"Or maybe you're just dumb."

"Ahhhh I know!" Ayame clutched her head; she knew that might be it! But wait, why did that voice sound off? WAIT—which one of her kouhais would call her that?!

She looked up and turned behind her, gasping at Takarada finishing up his meal and stood up with his tray. Yuu looked absolutely red trying to contain his laughter, one hand clutching his mouth and Ayame swore she saw tears at the corner of his eyes.

"You!"

"G-ganbatte, Ayame-san," Yuu stood up as well and left with Takarada.

The students stared at Ayame as she was still stunned by the sudden appearance of her class representatives. They could nearly see the steam rushing from her head and her cheeks tinting red in anger when she stood up.

"Ahhh! Does anyone have a rewind Quirk?! Please—just one minute will do!" Ayame nearly shouted in the cafeteria.

The students around burst out laughing at Ayame begging. She sat back down dejected, hugging and whining to Hotaru about how she could never redeem herself again.

Kirishima laughed from a few tables over, pointing at the brunette towards Bakugo.

"They sure are energetic! C'mon, Bakugo, let's join them next time!"

"Tch, I don't associate with idiots!"

Ayame had plenty of work to make up for missing a few sessions from 2-A. She couldn't practice her Quirk like she wanted and instead, was forced to stay afterschool to do the work. Ume and Aizawa had come to an agreement that she doesn't necessarily need to go help Aizawa every day, just most of time and he will inform her when he does not need her. It was still a new program U.A. was implanting so—of course some trial and errors will occur.

But why do I feel like a guinea pig?! Ayame cried in her mind. From the 'new' updated schedule she received from Ume, there was barely a day or two for Ayame to rest in one month!

She sighed, brushing her fringes back from the side to study the textbook in front of her. Students were leaving the school grounds but a few of them were in the study hall like her. Unable to absorb any material from the textbook, she propped a hand up to gaze out the window.

She recognized the sparkling black hair from Takarada and the icy blue hair from Yuu. Ah, as expected, those two stood out the most wherever they were. Takarada's hair, though black in doors, shine with little gem dust in an iridescent shine under the sun. There were plenty of girls admiring the two 'princes' as they got into the private car sent to pick them up.

Ayame rolled her eyes until they landed on familiar red and white hair on one student. She watched Todoroki leave the school grounds, alone.

Ayame couldn't understand him. Todoroki wasn't completely unfeeling. He had helped her handful of times already since they first met. Although he gave off a cold exterior, he was the one that saved her yesterday. And—he also helped her with those other high school guys trying to hit on her.

All of his actions had always been subtle. Whether it was supporting her during USJ's attack or pointing out her injuries, they were subtle notices. Todoroki does not make a big show of his words and let his actions do the talk instead. He was a good, but cold kid.

Ahh, whatever, Ayame stretched, I'm sure he has his own reasons.

At that time, she noticed a familiar figure walk by with an armful of books. She perked up at the dark haired boy and waved, calling out, "Sero-kun!"

The said boy turned around and noticed her, smiling as he arrived at her table. "Hello, Ayame-senpai. Are you studying too?"

She twirled the pen around casually. "Unfortunately."

"Do you mind if I joined you?" Sero asked hesitantly.

"Not at all! You'll be a good company!"

"Or a distraction," Sero snickered.

It was silent for a few moments as they turned back to their textbooks. Ayame continued to review her work with an intense concentration. Sero also worked quietly on his end but his hands were twitching with nerves. There had been something he wanted to say but couldn't get the words out as he peeked at Ayame from the corner of his eyes.

"S-senpai," Sero finally forced out, bringing lilac eyes to peer at him curiously. "I-I want to apologize, for yesterday."

"What for?" She asked with a tilt of her head.

Sero looked down at the textbook yet was unable to focus on any of the letters. He felt…useless during yesterday's match. When faced with his classmates Quirks, he thought his wouldn't even make it to the top 10. Although they had won the match, all he did was allow Ayame to play bait and fight.

"I'm not…as strong as Todoroki or Tokoyami…even Kaminari but—I want to do my best—to be a hero too!" Sero looked up with a new resolved, black eyes shining in determination. "If we ever get paired up again, I swear I would not hold you back!"

Ayame blinked, lilac eyes widening at his sudden outburst and yet—she wanted to laugh. Ah—all of her kouhais are so cute!

"Whaaa, Sero!" A pair of loud voices echoed in the room and two blurs came running over.

"Despite your plain looking face, you have a heart of gold!" Mineta cried out.

"What the heck?!" Sero glared at Mineta.

"You are definitely, not wrong!" Kaminari clutched his fist tightly, "You are so humble even with your victory!"

Ayame blinked at the two that just joined them and wondered when they had arrived. She watched the three guys playfully mock each other and—suddenly, she laughed. Sero may have felt like he was the cause for Ayame's injuries but he had worked well with her regardless of their disadvantages. If anything, she worked the hardest with Kaminari!

"Sero-kun, you'll definitely keep improving!" Ayame cheered, "And the one that gave me the most trouble was Kaminari-kun so, don't worry!"

"Hah?!" Kaminari shouted in shock, "I-I did my best!"

"Who was the one that said you'll win for Ayame-senpai?" Mineta snickered.

"In the end, she fought and won for you!" Sero pointed out.

Kaminari looked discontent and crossed his arms, turning his head away from them. Ayame laughed again at their playfulness and Sero felt the weight lift off his heart. He turned back to the two intruders with an almost accusing look in his eyes.

"How did you hear our conversation, anyways?" Sero asked, "Were you spying?"

Mineta and Kaminari stiffened and glanced at each other. Finding that suspicious, Ayame gasped and pointed towards them.

"You were!"

"No!" They both cried at once.

"We just saw Sero heading towards a girl!"

"And we can't believe the plain-looking would be the first one to get a girlfriend!"

"But then we realize it's just senpai."

"But that doesn't make it any better!"

Ayame and Sero looked at the two flustered guys trying to explain. She never considered herself pretty or anything but realizing that the ones 'complimenting' her were…the two most perverted guys in the class, she felt drained.

"Ahhh you two!" Ayame knocked the two of their heads together, finally satisfied, "No wonder the girls do this often! It's so relieving!"

"Ow, ow," they both clutched their heads.

Sero snickered. "Don't be ridiculous, she's not my type."

Ayame clutched her heart. "Ouch, that hurts."

Sero laughed again while ignoring the astonished faces of his two classmates. "I'm just saying! I wouldn't want to fight for senpai's affection, too! Did you see her classmates? The two tall ones!"

Kaminari groaned. "The two 'princes' again?"

"Yeah! With them in her class, how would she even pay attention to us?"

Ayame watched the three of them talk back and forth, her head reeling in confusion. What the heck?

"What's that supposed to mean?!" She interrupted, "In what way and shape did that stupid class pres and I were being 'affectionate'?!"

Kaminari brought a hand to his cover his mouth. "Ah, she's shy."

"A blushing senpai…" Mineta nearly drooled.

"I am red, from anger!" Ayame pointed to her face.

"You might be right," Kaminari ignored her and turned back to Sero, "If there was someone that was interested in our class…it has to be—"

Ayame swung her textbook at Kaminari before he can even finish, face red in anger. She packed up her textbooks and shoved them in her book bag.

"Ahh I can't get any work done with you guys here!" Ayame got up and carried her bag, "This better be the last time I hear about this!"

With that, she spun on her heels and left. Kaminari, Mineta, and Sero stared at each other before laughing loudly. Kaminari was still nursing his red cheek but with Ayame out of his distance, he continued his gossip.

"It has to be him, right?"

"The one that rushed to save her?"

"The strongest one in class?"

"The strongest is me!"

"No way!"

In the end, the three couldn't come up with a unanimous answer.

Her face still felt warm after she left the school grounds. It wasn't like Ayame was embarrassed! She couldn't believe her kouhais would assume something was going on between her and her classmates! Since the first year, Ayame had been trying to be understanding and pleasant to Takarada but he always rebuked her!

What did I ever do to him?!

She huffed, brushing back the hair from her face and paused at a convenience store. Ayame went in quickly to browse through the manga section, mood improving by the new chapter of the current popular shonen. She flipped through the pages with deep interest and nearly cried at the end. It left on a cliffhanger again!

Putting the magazine back, Ayame noticed a girly magazine next to it. It was the shoujo genre this time with many different high school girls featured on the front. She paused for a second, thinking, before shrugging and flipped through the magazine as well. Although Ayame enjoyed the art style and the cutesy antics of the girls…

I can't relate to this…

She purchased an ice cream bar when she left as silent thanks for the owner to allow her to browse. Her lilac eyes were focused on the bright up sky above, thinking again.

It wasn't that Ayame was completely clueless to 'love'. Granted, most of her experience had been from shoujo mangas and slight romance from the shonen at times but—Ayame had fallen in love before, okay?!

But…that 'love' never flourished.

There was a boy she once liked in middle school. He was cool and sporty, friendly and playful. Ayame, like the rest of the girls in her grade, often cheered for him when he would play basketball. At that time, Ayame thought there was possibly no one as great as him and had hopelessly gotten a crush.

And, by some stroke of luck, the boy had noticed her too. He would call out 'Sasaki' loudly in the hall, would ask her for notes (despite them both being terrible in class), and even walked her home once! Ayame was over the moon by the attention even if it was minuscule and silly. She thought maybe—they would be more than friends one day.

As the school year neared the end, it was time for them to decide on high schools. Ayame, despite her crush, still applied to U.A. High School. As much as she liked the other boy, her dreams of becoming a hero was still top priority! But, she decided to confess before the school year ended. She would not leave without letting her feelings known!

But she didn't have to do anything. The boy came to her first. He wanted to talk to her after school privately and Ayame's head spun with the possibility of a confession. She had worried about it for the remaining day until that was all she could think about. When it came to the time for the meet up, she found him already waiting for her.

Gathering up her courage, Ayame decided she will confess first. There was not another better opportunity than now. Her heart was beating rapidly against her chest and she could feel her face heat up in embarrassment but with his smile, she blurted out those three simple words 'I like you'.

'I-I'm sorry…Sasaki…I was hoping…to meet your sister, Y-Yume-san.'

Ah, Ayame was so foolish back then.

How can she forget that Yume had debuted as a sidekick that year? How could she forget her renowned sister when Ayame had been bragging about her for the majority of the school year? How could she not realize that he only walked her home because he wanted to catch a glimpse of her sister? How could Ayame not realize that compared to her kind, caring, successful, beautiful sister—she was only an afterthought?

'I like you as a friend…but you're too…boyish for me.'

Ayame wanted to scream.

But instead, she laughed it off. She rubbed her short brown hair and gave an all too-wide grin, saying she will ask her sister for him but—nothing more. Ayame asked him to forget her little confession for the favor and ran away before he can agree.

When Ayame returned home and saw her sister, she wanted to hate her for it. Ayame wanted to hate her sister for always being…perfect, for being so great and kind and flawless with every decision and action. But when Yume ran up to her and asked why Ayame was crying, cupping her cheeks together with distressed violet eyes, Ayame knew she can never hate Yume.

It was not Yume's fault for her own shortcoming. It was not Yume's fault for Ayame to be loud and rambunctious, sporty and boyish like he had said. Ayame was not her sister and she doesn't want to be. She was her own person; if they can't see that then—that's not someone Ayame wanted to be with.

It still does not stop the heartache she felt nor did Ayame stop crying but—she felt the need to change.

Ayame grew out her hair. Ayame focused on her hero studies. Ayame distracted herself with the endless shonen manga, anime, and any other shows she found. Ayame will never consider liking anyone again and convinced herself for anyone that shows interest meant nothing more than friendship.

But some things can't be changed.

Ayame threw away the popsicle stick, pausing when she stopped right in front of an electronic store. The television played a scene of LullaCry stopping five robbers before they can even step outside the bank. Her long brunette hair was flying in the wind while violet eyes emitted a bright red. The civilians nearby cheered loudly, drowning out Ayame's thoughts.

Her hand reached up to her bun, staring at her own reflection from the glass. Although she had grown out her hair to be more…feminine, it only made her appearance even more similar to Yume. It was to the point where people almost confused her for it until they realized Ayame was wearing a school uniform and not a hero outfit.

If—when I become a hero too—will they confuse us even more—?

Ayame turned away from the screen.

Takarada arrived home in a timely manner after Yuu dropped him off. His friend had whispered a barely audible 'good luck' before he left, knowing Noeru would not reply. Crystal eyes studied the grand gate of his estate before heading towards the mansion, ignoring the servants welcoming him home.

The mansion was spacious and grand, filled with precious gemstones on display that was easily worth a house or two. For the Takarada family of three, it was more than enough space for just one twelfth of the mansion to use but—his father does enjoy flaunting his wealth.

Noeru arrived at the study he knew his father would be using, pausing once to collect himself before raising a hand to knock on the polished wood. He heard the strict 'enter' before pushing the door open, strolling in with practiced steps to stand before his father.

The Takarada patriarch was nearing 50's in age yet still had a sovereign and clean-cut appearance to him. Matching crystal eyes regarded his one and only son who just entered, eyeing the grey U.A. uniform with hidden disgust before returning back to the stack of papers on his desk. Noeru knew how much his father disliked the uniform and hid the smirk within.

"Father," Noeru greeted plainly and waited.

Takarada Tatsuo barely gave him another glance. The elder man finished his documents and signed it, waiting just long enough for Noeru to start feeling annoyed before looking at him again. His son, much like himself, kept up the cold mask over his face.

"What is it," it felt more like a statement than question.

Noeru was not the type to beat around the bushes and went straight to the point.

"U.A. Sports Festival is approaching soon," he paused for a second, allowing the words to sink into his father, "Will you be attending this year as well?"

Tatsuo leaned back on his chair. "Of course. You haven't forgotten the agreement, have you?"

How can he? It was all his father would talk about and have it hanging over his head, waiting for Noeru to slip up. How can he forget the agreement they made two years ago for his future on the line?

"No," Noeru answered coldly, "I hope you will hold your end of the deal afterwards, Father."

Tatsuo hummed and without another word, Noeru turned around to leave. After leaving the study, Noeru reached up to tug the red tie off his neck, eyes narrowed and glaring for the servants to not disturb him. It always felt like a chore speaking with his father every time and his mother would never be the type to vouch for him.

She's probably too lost in her own interests to even care about her son, Noeru thought bitterly.

Despite the spacious mansion, Noeru felt suffocated in his own home. His mother never cared for his well-being and his father had always trained him to be just like him. Noeru had been so fed up with this way of life that he rebelled once, going against his father for his own future.

"I want to be a hero."

That conversation from two years ago was the biggest fight Noeru had with Tatsuo. His father only wanted him, the only son, to follow his footsteps and study business to one day take over the company. Noeru never cared for it and only wanted to be a hero like all the other boys his age. He wanted to fight and use his Quirk for something good, not for monetary gains.

But when Tatsuo heard of Noeru's dream, he laughed.

"A hero? That's a self-indulgent job. You are a Takarada; you are Takarada Noeru. Your future was never yours to decide."

Noeru had been so angry, he challenged his father. Takarada Noeru will be the top of his class for all three years in U.A. That would extend to the top grades; win the tournaments, and countless other rules on top of it.

If he fails, then Noeru would drop out of U.A. to follow his father's wishes. That was why, he cannot slip up now. Noeru, under any circumstances, cannot lose. He had already completed the first test by being accepted into U.A. through the normal entrance exams. His father had humored him then and went along with his wishes but Noeru knew Tatsuo was waiting for him to mislay.

He changed out of his uniform and into his workout clothes, heading to the indoor gym. The only thing he can do would be to work out his frustrations, to get stronger and better. If his family would not support him, then Noeru will succeed on his own accord.

Something fluttered by the window and Noeru glanced out to see a butterfly fly by. He paused momentarily, eyes narrowing into a glare at the colorful insect.

"I will be a wonderful hero before you know it."

That damned Sasaki Ayame.

He couldn't believe she made it into the hero class. Noeru had recognized the obnoxious voice and appearance as soon as he stepped into U.A. She had been the one to faint during the examination so how the hell did she pass?

But what bothered Noeru the most was…her natural hero prowess.

During the examination, she had countered those robots effortlessly where as the other students were a dozen points behind them. She had just been a tad faster than him but his Quirk allowed him to shatter the robots easier compared to her and gained an upper hand. When the giant, point-less robot appeared, Noeru was the one to realize the tactics U.A. used.

While other students were running away from the robot, he was calculative and strategic in rescuing and guiding the others. That damn idiot stood there dazed for a second before rushing forward to 'save' him.

"Watch out!"

Noeru thought her Quirk was useless but—at the sight of the giant tortoise protecting them, maybe she was stronger than he realized.

"G-get out of here!"

And she had been so natural at it. Ayame faced the danger head on without a second thought, because Noeru knew she was not thinking. Noeru was perfectly fine protecting himself and wouldn't have rushed to save the other students if he wasn't prepared. In the end, she still ran over like an idiot and overexerted herself.

Once had been enough. Noeru was perfectly content with ignoring Sasaki afterwards. He would not acknowledge her if given the chance and on the rare times they did speak, it was never pleasant. Throughout the first year, he learned more things about her than he wanted and hated her for it.

Sasaki Ayame had a powerful ex-hero for a mother. Her older sister became the model representative for U.A. High School and was also an influential hero. She had a loving family and a powerful Quirk that could rise up in the world of heroes and yet…

"Ne, Hotaru-chan! The new anime episode came out yesterday!"

"Ahhh I'm so tired! I stayed up all night reading this manga."

"Ehehe, this is still considered passing right? A score of 55 out of 100?"

Noeru hated her easy-going personality and her carefree nature. Ayame does not bother to try to be a hero while Noeru had to fight for his chance. She, who constantly goes on and on about the new shows she watched, does not understand how lucky she was for that privilege.

And that simply infuriated him.

Sasaki, you better not show your face around me in the festival. I swear I will knock you out of the competition.

In a blink of an eye, the remaining few days until the Sports Festival had passed quickly. It was an all day event separating the student tournament and actual festival in many different locations. There was a separate stage for the first, second, and third years but the first years would go first. From the schedule Ayame had briefly seen, she would be able to watch some of the first-years stages before she would be leaving for hers. Hopefully, she can watch it all before she had to prepare for her own!

Ayame was excited for the festival and had already changed into her gym uniform. It would only be fair if all the students wore their uniform to fight and it would be purely based on skill. Since this year she was assisting Class 1-A, she was more than excited to cheer for them.

"Hotaru-chan! Can you sneak us into 1-A's locker room?" Ayame whispered eagerly, her hair pulled back into the usual bun and her fringes were flying around in the wind.

Hotaru glanced around, noticing that there were not many people around, and nodded her head. Her teleportation Quirk would be the best transportation around—as long as Hotaru knew the location within a certain radius, she can teleport her and one more person to that spot instantly. Ayame had often complimented her friend on the Quirk and wished she also had the power to teleport instantly too.

Ayame grabbed onto Hotaru's hand and the shorter girl closed her eyes. The freckles on her cheeks began to glow neon yellow and within a flash, they were gone. Ayame felt her insides roll around uncomfortably and opened her lilac eyes with a dizzy head.

"Ugh, now I remember why I dislike using your Quirk," Ayame rubbed her head.

Hotaru smiled helplessly. "I-it affects my passenger more than me…sorry, Aya-chan!"

"Wha?! Senpai?!"

Ayame rubbed her brief headache away to blink at the locker rooms they had teleported to. Her eyes lit up at the sight of Class 1-A in their gym uniforms, hopping to the table closest to her which consisted of Todoroki, Bakugo, Sero, Kirishima, and Kaminari. She had been slightly hesitant at looking towards Todoroki since they had not a conversation again since that last time but—he acted just as always.

Cold and distant.

"Yo!" Ayame waved widely, "I'm here to cheer you on!"

"Senpai, do you know what the first round may be?" Sato asked curiously from the table over.

"Nope!" Ayame grinned, "It's always randomized so there's no point in asking us."

At that time, the door barged open to reveal Iida bursting in. He was also wearing the same gym uniform as the others, hair swept neatly to the side with his usual glasses on.

"Everyone! Are you ready? We'll be entering soon!" His eyes glanced around the room, stopping at the two upperclassmen within and startled. "Senpai! Are you allowed to be here?"

Ayame giggled and Hotaru nervously twiddled her fingers.

"Don't worry, Iida-kun! We just wanted to cheer you all on!" Ayame reassured.

Todoroki began to walk away; his movement caused Ayame to turn to him curiously. His eyes were focused on one person only and the whole class quieted down when he called the freckled boy's name.

"Midoriya," Todoroki said, one hand stuffed into his pocket as usual.

"Todoroki-kun? What is it?" Midoriya looked at the taller boy nervously.

Everyone turned the two having a conversation. It wasn't often for Todoroki to approach their classmate. He was usually alone and quiet by himself. They can barely remember him sitting down and eating lunch with someone the past few weeks. Seeing him initiating a conversation with Midoriya was a surprise.

"Looking at things objectively, I think I'm stronger than you," Todoroki began.

"Huh? Y-yeah," Midoriya sheepishly agreed.

"But…All Might has his eye on you, doesn't he?" Ayame blinked at Todoroki's question. Wait, he has? "I'm not trying to pry about that. But I'm going to beat you."

Wait what?! Why was Todoroki picking a fight with Midoriya? And—why Midoriya of all people?! He was such a sweet and shy boy so—Ayame couldn't reason any of this!

"Oh? Is the best in the class making a declaration of war?" Kaminari asked in a mix of shock and amusement.

Kirishima got up from his seat to Todoroki, setting one hand on the boy's shoulder to calm him down. "Hey, hey, hey! Why are you picking a fight all of a sudden? Not now, we're about to start!"

"We're not here to play at being friends," Todoroki shoved the hand away from him. "So what does it matter?"

What the heck? Why does that feel like it was aimed specifically at Ayame?! She flinched back in shock at those words when Todoroki turned around to walk away, his mismatched eyes gazed over her briefly. She had been trying to make an effort with Class 1-A and nearly everyone recuperated her friendship but—why was he purposely distancing himself and act like none of his classmates matter?

"Oi, Totoro-kun! That's not nice," Ayame blocked his path; her eyes were stern against his. Well, he can blame her if he wants but—he shouldn't take it out on his classmates! Right before their events, too!

"Senpai," Todoroki stopped walking and the blank look on his face turned into a slight glare. Ayame was silently thankful they were around the same height; she wouldn't want him to be looking down on her. "I'm only respectful because you are my upperclassman but, I have no intentions on being buddy with you either. I would appreciate it if you take your 'friendship' elsewhere."

Ayame was stunned, staring at him with an agape expression before the anger quickly boiled underneath her. Lilac eyes returned the glare fully, lips pulling back into nearly a scowl as she leaned closer to him.

"What is your problem? We're only trying to help! Plus—you'll be with your classmates for the next three years! Shouldn't you at least try to make an effort? I'm sorry if I had offended you but—you should give the others a chance!" Ayame retorted back.

"I don't want or need the help," Todoroki rebuked harshly; "I've already said it plainly. I am not interested in being 'friends' with anyone."

Ayame wanted to strangle him. This boy reminded her of Takarada and his harsh nature! And look how well Takarada gets along with 2-A—which was not well at all! She couldn't see Todoroki follow the same path but—it looked like it was too late!

"T-Todoroki-kun!" Midoriya brought their attention to him before a fight can occur between Ayame and Todoroki, "I don't know what you're thinking when you say you'll beat me, but of course you're better than me. I think you're more capable than most people. Looking at it objectively…"

"Midoriya, you probably shouldn't talk so negatively…" Kirishima tried to cheer up.

"But, everyone— The students from the other courses are aiming for the top with everything they've got too! I can't afford to fall behind. I'll be going for it with everything I have, too." Midoriya finished his speech with a resolute face; everyone looked at him with silent admiration.

Ayame's anger simmered down at the sight of Midoriya. Although he was always nervous and shy when speaking around her, Midoriya was brave and strong when challenged. He would not let himself be bullied and he knew of his own shortcomings. It reminded Ayame a little bit about herself and a small smile appeared on her lips at that thought.

"Yeah," Todoroki acknowledged with a glance towards Midoriya before brushing past Ayame. She turned around to stare at his back with a slight frown, her fist clenched together at his upsetting attitude.

"Ayame-senpai, don't worry," Kirishima turned to her with a small smile, "The rest of us appreciate the help you've given us."

"Yeah!" Kaminari and Sero cheered together. "Don't let him bring you down!"

She turned back to the rest of the class with another smile, nodding her head brightly. Ayame ruffled the back of her head and motioned towards the door.

"C'mon, you guys should go. We'll be cheering from the benchers, okay!" Ayame gave a wide grin and an 'okay' sign.

One by one, the students left the classroom, leaving Ayame and Hotaru alone with Bakugo. The blonde had stood up slowly and Ayame wondered why he was behind; she would assume he'd be excited for this event the most.

"Oi, crybaby-senpai," Bakugo called out to her and Ayame wanted to howl over the nickname, "The same goes for me. I don't want to be friends with you, either!"

He stalked off after that sentence and Ayame gaped again. How rude!

"You brat!" Ayame called after him, "I'm going to make you change your mind! I'll make sure you and that dummy Totoro-kun will change your minds!"

Bakugo replied with a wave of his middle finger.

Many people were whispering about the first-year's stage for this year. It was the class that survived the villain's attack during USJ and based on the information from the media, the first-years were a capable bunch.

Ayame heard the whispers around and felt an odd itch within her. The media and viewers were always interested in the third-years as they were more experienced as heroes. For this year, the people would be split between first and third and—Ayame felt weird at that thought.

Ah, am I being overlooked again?

She did not tell her family about the Sports Festival. Although Ayame had told herself many times to casually bring up the conversation, she felt awkward whenever her parents had babied over Suzume or spent time with Yume as she was often out on missions. Ayame kept up her cheery persona and told herself countless times to not worry; she was capable by herself.

But, she does feel…ignored at times as the middle child.

Ayame slapped her cheeks, brushing those thoughts away to focus on the first-year event. Thankfully, the students had a special viewing booth that was close to the stadium. Ayame and Hotaru had sat on the Class 2-A side with a few of their fellow classmates while the others were probably out enjoying the festival before it was their turn to participate.

"Hey, did you know that Endeavor's son is a first-year this year?"

"No way, seriously? Wow!"

Her ears perked up by the conversation above her, glancing up to see many different faces but couldn't discern who the one that spoke was. At the mention of the Number 2 hero, Ayame's curiously grew at the possibility of a name.

But, she couldn't hear anymore when the crowd's voices mixed together again. She clutched her head, moaning to Hotaru.

"Ahh, did you hear anymore from them?! I didn't know Endeavor has a son going here! Do you know who it is?" Ayame turned to her friend expectantly.

"I don't know…" Hotaru was not as well-verse into the heroes like Ayame was. Usually, the brunette would be the one to explain the Pro Heroes to her, not the other way around.

"Ahhh!" Ayame closed her eyes to think deeply, putting one hand on her cheek to try and remember Endeavor's unique features. "Do you think his son inherited his flame Quirk? Do they look alike? Wait, what does Endeavor look like again?"

Ayame began to wander out loud, talking mostly to herself rather than Hotaru but her friend had been paying close attention.

"I think…he has flames for hair!" Hotaru replied excitedly like she had gotten the answer correct on a test.

"Yeah!" Ayame opened her eyes and snap her fingers in Hotaru's direction. "Fiery hair and…sharp…blue eyes? No…that's not right… They're like…a mix of green…and…blue."

"Oh! Turquoise!" Hotaru elaborated again.

Unique, turquoise eyes that were bright and vibrant, pretty in shape and color. Ayame froze again as the puzzles slowly clicked together in her mind, Present Mic's voice echoing in the background to announce the first-year's entrance. She whirled around to grasp the railing, leaning over to see Class 1-A enter the stage first.

Her eyes were focused on one student only, his hair of white and red stood out amongst all of them. Ayame couldn't see his eyes from her distance but—she remembered the colors of them from the many times they were close together. One side was a deep colorless grey and the other—was a beautiful shade of blue and green.

Turquoise.

The color she had dismissed before, merely waving it off as a pretty shade without realizing the connection to what or who.

Todoroki felt the intense stare from various sides, one he knew was his father based on the showy flames he never turns off, and the other side… He glanced up to see the booth hosting Class 2-A. The bright, brunette hair of his upperclassman was leaning over the railing to stare at them. She wasn't making a big wave or screaming along with the rest of the crowd as he expected.

For some reason, he thought she was looking at him.

"Todoroki…Shoto…" Ayame whispered his name absentmindedly.

It was you—all along?

A/N:

Thank you to my faithful reviewers! I honestly would have given up on writing if not for you guys.

The Sports Festival finally begins! There's a little glimpse into Takarada's past and I'm only building him up because he plays an important role to Ayame's development. In the anime, I think all of the students fight as the same time in different stages and people can go see which years they wanted to see. I've changed a little bit here and since we haven't heard anything about 2nd or 3rd year's Sports Festival, I'm making it up as I go. It also highlights Ayame's insecurity a bit too as a middle child.

I made an Instagram specifically for Ayame x Shoto fanart. Please visit PrivateCardy! Tumblr (toomuchpineapples) will also have BnHA fanart!

Reviews will be deeply appreciated! I love to read (and reread) every single one!