"Big All Might & Demon Talking"

"Big All Might & Demon thought"

"Small Might & Normal Person"

"Small Might & Normal Person"

I do not know MHA or Doom Slayer or X-Men or any other shows in this story.

"Momo"

Momo spent the night at the hospital. Her parents arrived soon after she was admitted. They strolled into her private room. Vigo was standing guard outside. When she found her parent's embrace. Her mother sent her father out before sitting beside her on the bed. She holded her daughter's hand.

Momo, my dear, are you ok? Asked her mother hesitantly. Did they? Asked Momo's mother.

The question hung heavy in the air.

No, they didn't. Said Momo and wiped her eyes. They were going to. One had managed to get a hold of me and wrestled me to the ground. But I managed to free myself. They had ripped my shirt and began making vile comments as they started to attack again. It was almost like they were toying with me. I started to become more desperate as I tried to fight them off. As I was losing and calling for help. When none came and I began to see what my fate may be. I started to panic. Said Momo

It is ok, my darling. You must have been terrified. What happened next? Asked Momo's mother, holding Momo's hand and reassuring her.

The large spider one hit me into a wall. That is where I got my head wound from, then. Said Momo and she squeezed her mother's hand as tears trickled down her face. They said that after they did…. They would kill me. Said Momo.

Her mother wrapped her in her arms as Momo cried.

I was so scared. Said Momo and sobbed between the tears. All my training, all my studying, and it all went out the window… I am supposed to be a hero, and here I was on the verge…. Said Momo.

It took a few moments before Momo could gain a semblance of composure.

Then he appeared as I lost consciousness. He saved me and took me to his home. He had bandaged me up and let me use his phone to contact the staff. Plus he put me in one of his T-shirts. Said Momo.

Are you sure he didn't do anything? Asked Momo.

To be honest, not a hundred percent. But undergarments did not appear further damaged, and there was no sign of trauma from the rap kit. Said Momo and she looked down in shame at having to say the very word.

Do not hang your head in shame, Momo. Many have been in your position. You survived. Your dignity is intact. Before you say something that doesn't matter to your father or me. We would love you as if the worst had happened. And if that had happened. We would instead have you alive than anything else. But it is precious and I am glad it is still yours to give—your choice. Said Momo's mother.

But I am supposed to be a hero, and, and this happened. Said Momo.

Momo, there are pro heroes that have that happen. You are not a pro, not yet. Remember what your fathers said. 'Why do we fall?'. Said Momo's Mother.

So, we can learn to stand. Said Momo.

Does the mystery savior have a name? Asked Momo's mother.

Yes. But I won't tell the police that. Said Momo and she sat up some. He asked me not to. It was the only thing he asked in return. Said Momo.

Why? Asked Momo's mother.

He is a young father with a small child. The child's mother has moved on to heaven. I saw a shrine to what I can guess was his mother. He told me he brought me to his home. Because he didn't want to go to jail. Which implied there was no one to take the child in as he had used his quirk to batter the men who attacked me. He hopes to avoid jail and after what he did. I feel that is the least I can do. Said Momo.

Understandable, especially that he didn't take advantage of the situation. Make sure you thank him. Said Momo's mother.

There was a knock at the door. When her father entered.

Momo, the police are here. Do you think you can speak to them? Asked Momo's father.

Momo straightened herself up on the bed and patted her eyes dry.

Yes, send them in, please. Said Momo.

"Saturday"

The day for Momo and her family was spent mostly in a state of anxiety. As for Izuku, he was expecting for the police to show up at any moment. It was causing him to be a little jumpy and distracted. Especially when he went to the grocery store to do his shopping along with Inari, Melissa, and Itsuka. Images of being slammed down to the floor and being arrested on the street played through his mind. Itsuka and Melissa both noticed something was off. After they got home and began to put the groceries away. Itsuka pressed him to unburden himself. She was not expecting him to tell her that story of the night before and his encounter with Momo.

Izuku was surprised when Itsuka and Melissa didn't scold him heavily for his actions. But more so because he had run out of diapers. But if he hadn't…

Itsuka and Melissa both hugged him tightly instead.

I wouldn't want to imagine what could have happened if you weren't there. Said Kendo. Even with all my training. It still worries me and my parents. We even teach special classes at the Dojo for just that scenario. Said Kendo.

I know it is out there, as something I have read about. But to see it almost happen. Then I thought about Mom and Robin. Then you, Melissa, and Inari. The very thought made me angry before. But now it was more of a personal anger. Said Izuku.

It could happen to any person you have a closer connection to. Now come on. You promised the princess that you would take her to the park. Said Melissa as she had finished packing some snacks and drinks into the diaper bag.

It was a welcome distraction and having Itsuka and Melissa there to put Izuku's mind at ease. Because if he got arrested. Itsuka or Melissa would be right there to take care of her. The other parents at the park had grown slightly accustomed to seeing Izuku and Inari. They no longer gave them any stares. Instead, they would greet the young family and talk with the boy seeking to offer him any advice should the need arise. When Itsuka arrived. They got more of the story and were happy that the young father was not alone anymore. The same thing had happened when they saw Melissa with Izuku aIt was an offhand comment from Itsuka that Inari seemed to enjoy the sandpit, making Izuku wonder about getting one for the backyard. Inari appeared to enjoy the swings but not the slide, causing his search to change to a full playset.

When Izuku offered to go out for dinner. Itsuka couldn't help but smile and agree. Before they were walking down the street. Itsuka and Melissa were arguing over who would push the stroller. Izuku was walking by them and he was the one that was pushing the stroller. The thoughts of how they looked like a couple danced through Itsuka's head. Of course, they caught some odd stares and glances. But she ignored them. They chose a decent restaurant and had a rather lovely night. It was during dinner that Izuku asked her if she would spend the night.

We can hang out and not watch Disney or some cartoons. Said Izuku and he gave her a smile.

Of course, let me just notify my mom. I still have some clothes at your place. So it should be fine. Said Keindo.

After they got home and got Inari settled with her and Itsuka taking a bath. They called her tucked in and settled down for the night. Itsuka waited as Izuku ran to take a quick shower. Then Melissa had taken a shower once Izuku was done taking his shower. While he was taking his shower Melissa and Itsuka were scrolling through the video services to find something for them to watch. As they heard him enter the room.

Hey, want to watch Star Wars? Asked Melissa.

Hey, do you want Rocky? Asked Kendo.

I haven't watched either of them in forever. Robin was not a fan. That sounds like fun. But I have not seen Star Wars in longer. Said Izuku.

I never understood that she just never got it. Said Kendo. Then she did her best Darth Vader impression. Izuku, (heavy breathing) I AM YOUR FATHER. Said Kendo.

No, No, that's not possible. Said Izuku. But it was terrible acting before putting his finger by his mouth. Well, besides the fact that you're a girl. From what I know about procreation. You lack the right equipment and my mom wasn't a lesbian. At least I think she was not. Unless sometime in the future you get a sex change. Then you travel back in time and somehow seduce my mom. Then one, ick. Two, you have many birthday presents to make up on. Third, I have already met my father before. Fourth, I have nothing to add to that. Oh plus you are many times shorter than me. Said Izuku.

You dick. Said Kendo and she laughed and tossed a pillow at him. Now, come sit next to Daddy. Said Kendo and she patted the seat. Before making a fake gagging sound. Izuku and Melissa laughed before sitting down. But Melissa was on the opposite side of Izuku that Itsuka was not on. Then Itzuka started the film. At first, there was a small distance between them. Mainly occupied by the popcorn. But once that slowly found its way to the coffee table, that distance closed. Neither Itsuka nor Izuku nor Melissa noticed it happening. But soon Itsuka and Melissa had their legs curled up on the sofa and leaned against Izuku as they watched the movie.

The banter between the three slowly quieted as Kendo felt his head rest on top of hers. Once she noticed that his breathing was steady. He had fallen asleep. With a pang of guilt, Itsuka held the moment for longer than she probably should have. His arm was down around her shoulders. Her hand on his chest. But the guilt finally won out. So she tried to wake him to send him off to bed. But he did not wake up.

The day that had begun wrapped in nervous anticipation. It ended in peace and good dreams.

Inari dreamed of rivers and waterfalls of Apple Juice with her daddy and aunties. Also, the women that made her feel so safe would be there. It was hard for Inari to see her face. But it was the same in the picture above her bed. The lady would hold her and sing. Inari didn't quite understand it all. But she knew this woman and the one with green hair, like her daddy. Loved her very much and were there watching over her.

Izuku dreamed of peaceful days. They were of a warm house, and Inari's laughter. Someone else was in the dream. But he could never see her. The only thing he heard was her laugh. Or feel her as she hugged him from behind. The embrace was familiar enough to be comforting. But not enough that he could place it. His mind went with it to a home where he was loved, and everything felt right.

Melissa dreamed of peaceful days. It was of a warm house, and she was taking care of a little kid. Someone else in the dream. But the other person was a female. However she could not tell how it was. Then there was some laughter coming from the female and off in the distance. She could not tell who were the people that were laughing off to the side. But two of them were familiar to her. Her mind went to a place where she was loved and she loved people there. To her that place felt just right.

Itsuka dreamed that she was in the field this time. But there was no interruption. Instead, she got her kiss and much more as the person laid her down amongst the flowers. Then her dream went to 18. Itsuka would wake up, she would need to change her clothes.

"Sunday"

Sunday was a quiet day as the prep for the week had already been handled. Itsuka sat at the table. She was working on her schoolwork and getting help from Izuku or Melissa. But Izuku had to stop them from having a make out session the few times they were having a make out session. Inari decided to sit at the table and color. She asked her dad for which color to use next. It was very adorable. It was a nice and lazy day. Itsuka departed after dinner. Leaving Daddy, Daughter, and Melissa to have movie and cuddle times. Inari had a fuss and didn't want to go to bed instead of saying.

NO, DADDA, sleep you. Said Inari.

It took Izuku a moment to figure out his daughter wanted to sleep in his bed. But it was good for both of them once he did. He fell asleep with her on his chest. Her rhythmic breathing was music for his soul.

"Month 4"

The first week of his fourth month at U.A. was going rather well. Izuku and Melissa learnt that in about one month some heroes from the U.S.A were coming to have a conversation with Nezu. Izuku also noticed that someone was watching him and Melissa when they were training. Plus he also felt that his quirk got weaker a few times. And that Melissa would not be able to use OFA sometimes. When they noticed that happened they looked around to see if they could find who was doing that. They did not find the person that was doing that. But Izuku used his telekinesis and enhanced sense of smell to find out how was doing that. He found where the person was but they had left already. He could track them down but he did not want to do so. The fear of being arrested had faded. After talking with All-Might about the incident. The number one did some digging and found that while the police were interested in who had saved the girl. They were not looking for him. They didn't have a good description, and the victim was silent. Much like Itsuka, Toshi chided him for running out of diapers more than anything. The two were talking as the new playset Toshi had insisted on buying was being installed.

Now, my boy, let me teach you the secret of how to grill a proper steak. Said Toshi.

They worked with their teachers was going well for them. But Melissa was getting near controlling about 35% of OFA. However when she did that something strange happened with OFA. She had seemingly gained two new quirks. The first quirk awakened when she could control about 25% of OFA and it allowed her to to produce tendrils of dark energy which are useful for long-range grappling and increasing the user's mobility. The other appeared when she had control over about 30% of OFA and the quirk allowed her to generate thick clouds of purple smoke from their body, which can obscure people's vision. When this happened she had blacked out for the first one once Izuku had knocked her out. But she had gained a scar on her right arm from where the black tendrils had come out for the first time. The scare takes the shape of an oval going up and down her arm. In about the middle of the scar there was a much smaller oval shape there as well. It is the scare that Izuku got after fighting Muscular. Her training with them felt like they were going good.

Izuku had his visits from Mrs. Asui. Which went well. At least he felt like it went well. His therapy session was solid. He felt like the incident was behind him and life was going well. At least till he got home, it got interesting. As he approached the house. There was a black limo parked outside his apartment building. Which was slightly worrying. He knew what was happening when he saw the bald man from the incident. The man Vigo. He leaned down and knocked on the glass. Before he opened the door. Then out stepped Momo. She was dressed casually. At least casually for someone who had grown up in wealth. Looking much better than when they had last parted though it would be hard to see her looking much worse.

Hello Ms. Yaoyorozu. Said Izuku and he got closer.

Hello, Mr. Midoriya. Responded Momo with a slight bow.

Would you and your bodyguard like to come in? I need to get inside. The weather is getting nasty. Said Izuku and looked up to the gray threatening clouds.

Yes, please. Vigo, would you please grab the bags? Asked Momo.

Yes I would do so Young Mistress. Said Vigo.

Hey Mel, I would like to introduce you to Momo Yaoyorzu. Said Izuku.

How are you talking to Mr. Midoriya? Asked Momo. After she said that a blond-haired girl had popped up from behind Izuku. But Momo could tell that the blond-haired girl was haining off of Izuku's back. You can think of how Yachiru hainings off of Kenpachi's back in Bleach.

I would like you to meet Melissa Shield. Said Izuku. After he said that Melissa stuck her arm out to shake Momo's hand.

Hi I am Melissa. It is nice to meet you Momo-san. Said Melissa and she waited for Momo to shake her hand.

Oh it is nice to meet you too, Shield-san. Said Momo in a confused tone and shook her hand.

Do not worry about Mel. She is from America and she is getting used to the costumes of Japan. Oh to let you know I might sometimes stop using the heuristics of Japan. Because of the time that I spent with my father. I just wanted to let you know that. Said Izuku.

Ok that sounds ok. Said Momo.

Izuku raised an eyebrow but said nothing as he went and opened the door, letting his guests inside.

After they entered Izuku's apartment. Excuse the mess. Would you like some tea or coffee? I have apple juice as well. Said Izuku.

Momo found the house reasonably clean, and a rich aroma of beef stew filled the home.

Some tea would be lovely, herbal if you have some. Said Momo and then she took a seat offered to her at the table.

I would like some coffee, Izu. Said Melissa and she hopped off his back.

Ok that is doable. I will also bring some snacks as well. Said Izuku and he went to get the drinks and snacks.

Izuku got some things to drink. Once he got the drinks and he also got some snacks as well. But once the drinks and snacks were done he took them to the living room where Melissa and Momo were getting to know each other.

Vigo entered shortly after that with 4-5 bags.

Tea? Asked Izuku. The man shook his head.

How are you feeling, Ms. Yaoyorozu? Asked Izuku.

Call me Momo. You saved my life. If you are ok with it, can I call you Izuku? Asked Momo.

That's fine. Or you can give me a nickname if you want. So how are you feeling, Momo? Asked Izuku and he felt a little relieved that she had asked to be addressed by her first name. Which let him feel relieved that this would not be a difficult meeting. Said Izuku.

How about this you call Izu, Izu. Said Melissa.

Before Momo could answer. She felt two little hands hitting her leg. So she looked down into the beautiful eyes.

UP UP. Said a small voice demanded.

Momo looked at Izuku.

Is it ok? Asked Momo.

Izuku nodded his head, curiosity running wild in him. Inari was ok with strangers. But she had never been so bold as to go up to one and demand to be lifted. Momo reached down and lifted Inari into her arms. Inari snuggled in momentarily before looking at the counter for something. Izuku slides her water cup to her and Inari pouted.

Juice! Said Inari.

Water first. Then once you are done you can have Juice. Said Izuku. Inari was still pouting. But she took a sip of her water, which was adorable. Momo, for her part, chuckled. She found Inari comforting, like somehow this child would drive all the bad stuff away. That this child could improve everything was a weird feeling for the heiress.

To answer your question. Physically, I am doing well. All the wounds have been healed with next to no visible scarring. But mentally no. I have been having some nightmares. Said Momo.

I understand that. Not exactly how you do. But yea. Said Izuku.

Oh if you want to we can always about this. Oh you could also talk with my girlfriend as well. Said Melissa.

What did you do? If you don't mind me asking? I do not wish to burden you by forcing you to relive your trauma. But if you didn't mind. I would appreciate the advice. Said Momo.

Izuku took a deep breath.

First time was after her mom was forced to move away, and that day that she left. My mom died in a car accident. I drank for one month. But I probably would have drank for longer if my quirk did not fully mainfirst. I don't recommend that solution. The Second was when her mom died and that comes and goes. Inari helps to be honest. She keeps me focused. Therapy and having a support network have been the best. Knowing that the pain won't just magically go away overnight and that some days it will be worse than others. Learning not to blame yourself. But to be honest, it is easier said than done. Said Izuku.

Therapy has been beneficial. But as you said, the blame or guilt is difficult. Not wanting to feel weak is something with which I am grappling. But I can see how Inari helps. For some reason, this little girl somehow makes me feel better. But, Izuku, I do not want to take up much of your or your daughter's time. Or even Mrs. Shield's time either. Said Momo and she returned her hand to Vigo. Who handed her a filled envelope. Izuku immediately knew it was money and set it on the counter.

Thank you for saving me. Said Momo.

Izuku looked at the envelope for half a second before he responded.

I hope I do not offend you, Momo. But no, thank you. I didn't do it, hoping to get cash or any reward. It was simply the right thing to do. Said Izuku and Inair giggled as if she was agreeing with him.

Even if you had been arrested. What if I told the police who you were? Asked Momo.

I would be upset for sure. But of all the reasons to go to jail. I'm sure my daughter would forgive me once I explained. I did it, Momo. Because it was the right thing to do. Yea, I could have just called the police and let it be at that, turned my back, and left it to others. But what if they didn't get there in time to stop… you know. Said Izuku and Momo nodded.

I have a daughter. I had a girlfriend. My ONLY two friends are girls. My mom, if they were ever in that position and needed help. I pray that someone would step in. Sometimes doing the right thing does not go hand in hand with the legal thing. It was a risk I was willing to take. Plus I do not know how long I would be in Jail for because of my legal team. Said Izuku.

Momo smiled. But Izuku could tell that she had a confused look in her eyes

I was hoping you would say that. Honestly, I was. I felt that you were a good person and that confirms it. Then let me offer this instead. Said Momo and she returned the envelope to Vigo. Who handed the bags to Izuku. He opened the first one, and I had a super cute winter coat with a matching hat, gloves, boots, and even a scarf. The second had some winter clothes for Inari. The third had a nice new winter coat for Izuku and a scarf. The last one had a few stuffed animals. Plus it had his shirt that had been laundered.

Please accept these gifts instead. Allow me to show my gratitude for what you did and were willing to risk. May I also know what you mean by your legal team? Asked Momo.

Izuku smiled. He has a dazzling smile, she thought. He gave a small sigh. He did need a new coat and Inari could use winter clothes. He may not know fashion. But he could tell these were excellent quality and knew it would make Momo feel better.

Thank you, Momo. What I mean by my legal team is that I had inherited a family business. It is a big business which makes pretty much everything. So it would need to have a good legal team. Said Izuku as the sound of rain began to fall outside.

Would you and your driver and bodyguard care to join me for dinner? Asked Izuku and he pointed to a big pot of beef stew.

We wouldn't want to impose Izuku. Said Momo.

You wouldn't be imposing at all. There is no way that the two of us can eat it. Before I would have to dispose of it. You would be helping me out. I wouldn't say I like wasting food. Even with the amount that Izu can eat. We would not be able to finish it. Said Melissa.

Then, of course. We would love to. Vigo, please fetch Aoi. Said Momo.

Izuku smiled and placed a tray of biscuits in the oven.

It was nice. Vigo didn't say much. But Inari was fascinated with him. So she made him sit on the floor with her. While they watched the most recent animated feature. Aoi insisted on doing dishes as thanks for the food. Izuku was incredibly surprised at how much Momo could eat. But it was not as much as he could eat. However it was nearly as much as he eats for each meal. Soon they got on the topic of quirks. Which made much more sense to him. He explained "Dominator's Touch and Metal Clays" and how it had first manifested as regular Pirokuneses. But he had trained with it and it got strong enough to make a mine black hole. Then his Metal Clays first manifested as bone Claws. It gives him passive increased strength. But he had trained with it and learned that he could coat his skeleton in a metal kind of substance. Then later he learned that he could transform into a humanoid Wolverine. He also told her he had a job at U.A. and would take the entrance exam soon. Momo was surprised that he worked at U.A., raised Inari, and trained to be a hero. They chatted for a while. Momo was enjoying it. It was a welcome distraction from what her life had been recently to talk to two people that were her age though their lives were more different than could be. Momo checked the time before looking up.

Izuku, I had a great time, and it looks like Vigo and Aoi also enjoyed themselves. Said Momo and she prepared to leave.

I did too, Momo. It has been so long since the house was so full. Said Izuku.

I can understand that. I last lived in the area a while ago. So my home is rather empty. So, I thank you, Izuku Midoriya and Melissa Shield, for saving me and opening your home to us. Said Momo.

Hey, Momo, would you like to exchange numbers? It may be presumptuous of me and I am sorry if that offends you. But I had a good time talking to you. Inari likes you and it would be nice to have someone to talk to and maybe make a new friend. Said Melissa.

Momo contemplated it momentarily and the thought of being here and doing this again made the darkness hovering over her life push back some.

That sounds good, Melissa. It would be nice to have a friend as well. Said Momo.

They exchanged numbers and had to detangle Inari from Vigo. so they could depart with the official.

Bye, Bye. said Inari. The group departed. That night Momo slept a little better. Framed next to her bed was a picture from Inari's coloring book.

"December"

The meeting that Nezu and some of the UA staff had with the group of the American heroes went well. The heroes from America were mainly from Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters and they were from the X-Men. The UA staff that joined Nezu were Yagi Toshinori, Higari Maijima, and Sekijiro Kan. But Izuku and Melissa were not left alone for their training. Since Gran Torino was there telling them how they are going to train. He had Melissa bouncing around the area dodging the few black holes that Izuku had made. Plus Izuku was also holding up some pieces of rubble floating in the air. From Xavier's School for Gifted Youngsters the staff that joined Charles Xavier was Logan, Scott Summers, and Hank. Half way through the meeting Logan got bored since he was there just in case he needed to translate. But he was not needed since the UA staff that joined knew English. So he decided to look around the training grounds. When he got to Ground Gamma he smelled that there were people in there. So he decided to go in and find out who was in the training area.

When he got into the Ground Gamma he saw that there were three people. He saw an old short man and two kids. One of the kids was a blond-haired girl that was taller than an average girl. The other kid was a green-haired tank of a man with a scar on his neck and black tattoos. How was floating in the air with things floating around him. He decided to wake over to them.

Hey Bub. What is that kid doing floating in the air and what is this blond kid doing? Asked Logan.

How the hell are you calling Bub youngster? Asked Torino.

I am not young Bub. I am over 300 years old. So you are the youngster around here. Said Logan.

You must be Wolverine. The American hero. Said Melissa in an excited voice. After she said that she started to vibrate in excitement.

Yes, that is me. But you can just call me Logan. Said Logan.

Well to answer your question that you asked. The name of the floating boy is Izuku. And he is training on his control over his telekinesis. He already has pretty good control over his telekinesis and his other quirk. Said Melissa.

How does he have two quirks? Asked Logan.

I do not know. All I know is that he has telekinesis and a quirk like your's. Because he has some bone claws. But he can somehow coat his skeleton in some sort of metal-like substance. Said Melissa.

Hmm I would like to see those bone claws. That he has. Said Logan.

Well how about this you and I have a spar and I will only use my claws. Said Izuku from behind Logan.

That sounds doable. Said Logan.

You are much smaller than I thought you would be. But if my theory is right, that expands something. Said Izuku.

What is your theory? Asked Logan.

Hmm that somehow we are related. Said Izuku.

Hmm what is your last name Bub? Asked Logan.

My last name is Midoriya. But that was my grandmother's last name. However, my grandfather's last name is Vegapunk. At least I think it is Vegapunk. Said Izuku.

Hmm that first one sounds familiar. But that other one does not sound familiar. Said Logan.

Well are we going to spar? Asked Izuku. After he said that Logan attacked him. The fight was pretty much how a fight between Wolverine and Sabertooth goes. But Izuku replaces Sabertooth and he has claws instead of the long sharp fingernails. The fight had stopped in a tie. Izuku may have had much more experience fighting than Logan does. But the majority of the experience was fighting demons and Logan has more experience fighting humans.

That was a nice fight. Said Izuku and Logan.

The holiday season rolled in. And Izuku felt a sense of giddiness at the prospect for the first time in years and he knew it was due to it being his first with Inari. He was excited to see her reaction to all the lights and differences accompanying the season. He wasn't the only one. As the holiday bug was biting those in his circle. Which were Melissa, Toshi, Torino, and Itsuka were also looking forward to the holiday. Momo, who was usually reserved. Began to feel excited as she found herself shopping for gifts for the little girl and her new friends.

Melissa and Momo started with text messaging. Before it graduated to her coming over or joining them on an outing with Inari. It was how she also introduced Momo to Itsuka. Hoping the two girls would get along. Momo found Itsuka pleasant and friendly. It also helped that Inari wanted nothing more than for the four of them to play together. So it helped to bridge the gap. While Momo and Melissa were texting he had quickly went to his forest to see if what he was making had been finished and if it was how he wanted them made. They were done and they were exactly how he wanted them made. So he decided to head back to his apartment. But before he left he grabbed one of his guitars. The guitar was a purple, one neck guitar with many electric strings and some skeletal-looking features.

Itsuka was happy to meet the woman that Izuku had saved though a tinge of jealousy arose. When Izuku failed to mention how stunning she was. It made Itsuka a little insecure when she compared their looks. It was abated as she didn't notice Izuku checking the girl out or being flirtatious. The first time Izuku, Melissa, and her went to Momo's house. They were smacked with the financial difference between the quartet. But Itsuka noticed that the home, while grand, felt empty and lacking warmth. Izuku was not that shocked by the size of her house. Because his grandfather's house was about two and a half times bigger than Momo's house. The way Momo lit up when they arrived with Inari told them that despite the opulence and the money. Momo was lonely, and that was all Itsuka needed to befriend the girl in earnest.

Izuku was a flurry of activity at home and work. The school was preparing for the holiday break. So the students were bustling with activity. Numerous little celebrations were being held, and he watched as some romances blossomed and others fizzled. It was a scene he watched. Wondering if he would ever be in that situation again. The excitement of the holiday held a measure of loneliness for him. But his support network was doing wonders in keeping him focused. Hound Dog's sessions were a little longer than usual as Izuku felt the need to unburden himself more.

Mrs. Asui's visit was also pleasant. They mostly talked about the holiday season and the preparation for the children. The most significant part was that two weeks before Christmas. Melissa took her driving test and passed. She was giddy on the ride back to the house with Toshi. Who was beaming like a proud uncle. When she entered, she was greeted with a surprise celebration with Kobayashi, Mrs. Asui, Itsuka, Izuku, and Momo present. Having never had such a thing. It was a memory that burned itself into his heart. The night wasn't over when Toshi delivered a brand-new top of the BMW SUV, Itsuka, and Momo wondered exactly who Toshi was. But it wasn't their place to question the relationship as the two seemed close. Izuku did his best to protest. But all Toshi did was produce the safety reports for the vehicle, and Izuku caved even though the car was not for him. But it was for Melissa. The three people stood in the driveway after the others returned.

Thank you, Toshi. Said Melissa and she turned and hugged the man tightly.

Not only for the car but for everything. Said Melissa.

Melissa, my girl. He responded as he returned the hug.

I would do it all again a thousand times over. You continue to amaze me with your dedication to help Izuku with Inari and your training and work. Most would have given up long ago and claimed the hardship was too much. But you rose to the occasion and I know you will continue to do so. That goes the same for you to Izuku my boy. Said Yagi.

The weekend found Momo, Melissa, and Itsuka joined Toshi and Izuku as they went shopping for a tree and more gifts as Torino babysat Inari. The flurry of decorations and merriment was a great way to chase away the blues for some. When Izuku found out that Momo would be alone. He insisted that she join him for the day along with Vigo and Aoi. Momo tried listlessly to protest. But she knew she wanted to be there and agreed. Her only instance was that they would handle dinner that night. Izuku agreed and smiled. Knowing that the house would be complete.

Itsuka celebrated Christmas Eve with her family. Before coming over to be with Izuku and Inari. She wouldn't miss the experience of seeing the little girl on Christmas Morning. It also helped to foster her romantic feelings. She knew it was her playing house. But she wouldn't deny herself this and instead just rolled with it. At the end of the evening. She found herself sitting with Izuku in a darkened living room. Enjoying the fire and lights blinking on the tree.

Is that enough presents? Asked Kendo and looked at the small mountain.

I think so. But I know that Toshi and Torino will be over in the morning with, I am sure, a large mountain of their own, and Aoi told me that Momo has been rather busy at the shopping mall as well. Inari is going to make it out like a bandit. Said Izuku and he handed her a mug of hot chocolate. Itsuka saw him look at the shrine and melancholy filled his eyes.

Izuku? Asked Kendo and took his hand and gently pulled him down to the couch.

I know it must be hard with Inko and Robin being gone and how much you would want to share this moment with them. They are always with us and with you. So don't feel bad about looking forward to enjoying tomorrow. They wouldn't want that for you. Said Izuku.

I know that mentally. But I get lonely sometimes. Said Izuku and he took the seat next to her that was not taken by Melissa.

If I didn't have you. It would be too much. Toshi and Momo are great, don't get me wrong. But with you and Mel, I can be more open. You won't judge or think less of me. Which means much, Itsu. said Izuku and he looked at her.

I mean it from my heart, Itsu. Thank you. Said Izuku and he put his arm around her and pulled her into a hug.

Itsuka's heart pounded as she wanted to pull him into a kiss but not a hug. But she didn't want to break this moment. She just hoped that he didn't hear the pounding of her heart. They stayed like that for an hour, not talking, just cuddled together before he finally rose to head to bed. She watched him disappear down the hall. Before she went to the spare room. A longing in her heart that did not abate in the morning light.