obsidian
chapter 1
Tsubaki Kazeha sat slumped in the back of her last lecture of the day, barely keeping her eyes open as her professor droned on about classroom management strategies. Her eyelids felt impossibly heavy, and she fought the urge to rest her head on her hand, knowing she'd probably fall asleep if she did. It had been another long night-her late shift at the café had stretched into a last-minute delivery run that took her all over town, leaving her with barely enough time to sleep before dragging herself to class this morning.
Her notebook lay open in front of her, but instead of taking notes, her pencil lazily traced lines in the margins-doodles of random shapes, flowers, and waves filled the corners of the page. Her focus drifted, her body exhausted and her mind swimming in a fog. She blinked hard, trying to shake the tiredness away, but it was a losing battle.
I really need to stop taking those late-night shifts, she thought, stifling a yawn as her eyes drifted towards the clock on the wall. But I need the money.
Her mind flickered back to the never-ending list of expenses-bills, groceries, tuition, legal transportation...it all weighed her down. She sighed quietly, her eyes fluttering as she barely registered the slides on the screen. Her pencil scratched absentmindedly over the page. The professor's voice faded in and out, like a distant hum she couldn't quite tune into.
A yawn slipped out before she could stop it, and she quickly covered her mouth, glancing around to see if anyone noticed. It wasn't long after that did her vision blur for a moment, her body crying out for rest. Following that, her head dipped.
She jerked upright, her heart racing as she blinked rapidly, trying to stay awake. I can't fall asleep. Not here. She straightened her back and took a deep breath, willing herself to focus, but her brain refused to cooperate. Everything felt slow, heavy. Why did this lecture feel so unbearably long?
Her gaze slid to the clock again. 2:15 PM. Just thirty more minutes. She rubbed her eyes, wishing desperately for the day to end.
Her phone buzzed softly in her pocket, but she ignored it. Whatever it was could wait. She doodled a few more lines on the edge of her notes, but even that felt like too much effort. Her head throbbed faintly, the weight of exhaustion pressing down on her. She had another shift at the café later, and all she could think about was how nice it would feel to lie down, even for a few minutes.
Her professor's voice faded into the background hum, and Kazeha's pencil stilled against the paper, her thoughts drifting toward the warm, inviting embrace of sleep.
Until she felt a sharp poke in her back, jolting her awake.
Kazeha blinked, startled out of her drowsiness. She glanced to the side and saw Takeda Riku sitting behind her, his usual apologetic grin on his face. He raised an eyebrow and mouthed, "You okay?" while giving her another light poke with the eraser end of his pencil.
Riku, for as laid-back as he seemed, had a subtle quirk that made life a bit easier for him-Spatial Awareness. It wasn't flashy, but it allowed him to always know the precise distance between objects and people. It made navigating crowded hallways or even noticing small movements, like Kazeha's head dipping, second nature to him. Kazeha knew about it, and while she often forgot, Riku's attentiveness was a reminder of how useful small quirks like his could be.
Kazeha sighed quietly, offering him a sheepish smile as she straightened up. How embarrassing. She hadn't realized how obvious her struggle had been. Riku had always been friendly-kind in an unassuming way-but she didn't expect him to notice her dozing off like that.
"Thanks," she mouthed back, feeling the warmth of embarrassment creep up her neck. She rubbed her eyes, forcing herself to pay attention to the lecture again, though her mind continued to wander.
I need to stay awake, she chastised herself. Just a little bit longer. But even with her best efforts, her focus kept slipping. Her mind still wandered to how nice it would be to close her eyes for just five minutes-no, focus.
Kazeha blinked hard, trying to shake off the lingering drowsiness, but it wasn't just the tiredness that was creeping in. I haven't had any coffee today. She could feel it now-the subtle, uncomfortable jitters that came when she skipped her usual dose of caffeine. Her hands trembled slightly as they hovered over her notebook, and she clenched her pencil a little too tightly, as if gripping it harder would somehow stabilize her.
Great, now I'm awake, jittery, and bored.
The lecture finally came to an end, and Kazeha let out a long breath as she closed her notebook. Her hand brushed absentmindedly over the doodles she'd drawn in the margins instead of taking notes. Exhaustion still weighed heavily on her shoulders, and the thought of powering through the rest of the day without caffeine seemed impossible.
Coffee would help, she thought, but once again, the familiar tug of her guilt hit her hard. She had already bought coffee several times this week, often grabbing a cup before class, then another during her shift at the café, and sometimes even a third cup to just stay awake while studying late into the night. She had a habit of relying on it through her packed days, but she couldn't ignore the fact that her habit was chipping away at the little money she had budgeted for extras.
I really can't afford to keep doing this. Kazeha mentally scolded herself. Her budget was already tight, and she couldn't justify spending more on something as frivolous as coffee, no matter how tired she felt. She sighed, brushing her bangs away from her face.
Maybe that's why I've been so jittery. Too much coffee, not enough sleep.
As she packed up her things, sliding her notebook and pencil case into her worn-out bag, she noticed someone approach. Glancing up, she saw Riku standing beside her, a small, warm smile on his face. His slightly tousled hair fell into his eyes, which were always soft and kind. Though he had broad shoulders, his unassuming, gentle presence made him easy to be around.
"Hey, Kazeha," Riku greeted, scratching the back of his neck in that nervous way he always did. "You looked like you were struggling to stay awake in class. Want to grab some coffee? I could use a break after that lecture."
Kazeha blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the offer. Coffee? Her mind immediately flashed to the multiple cups she'd bought this week alone. She was trying to cut back, especially since the cafés around campus weren't cheap.
"Oh, thanks," Kazeha started, offering him a polite smile, "but I think I should pass. I've already been drinking way too much lately."
Before she could finish, Riku's grin widened, his boyish charm on full display. "Don't worry about it. My treat. You looked like you needed it more than I did."
Kazeha's protest died on her lips. I really shouldn't…but I'm so tired. The thought of getting through the rest of the day-let alone her shift later-was becoming unbearable.
"Okay, fine," she relented, a grateful smile tugging at her lips. "But only because you're offering."
Riku's face brightened, clearly happy with her response. "Great! There's a spot not too far from here. Let's go."
The crisp autumn air greeted them as they stepped outside, the cool breeze carrying the scent of fallen leaves and freshly cut grass. The campus was bustling, students hurrying between classes or lounging on benches, chatting with friends. The warm hues of orange, red, and gold leaves painted the scenery in a picture-perfect fall setting.
"So, what's this place called again?" Kazeha asked, glancing over at Riku as they walked.
"It's this little café I stumbled across last week. The drinks are good, and they're not too expensive," Riku replied with a smile, his usual shyness peeking through.
Kazeha chuckled, pulling her jacket tighter around herself as they walked across the quad, the leaves crunching beneath their feet. As much as she hated to admit it, the thought of a hot cup of coffee was becoming more appealing by the second.
Kazeha chuckled softly, pulling her jacket tighter against the chill in the air. As much as she hated to admit it, the thought of a hot cup of coffee was sounding more and more appealing. They walked in comfortable silence for a few moments, passing groups of students scattered across the grassy areas, some reading or typing away on laptops, others engaged in animated conversations. The autumn sun cast a warm glow on everything, but the wind carried the first hints of winter's bite, causing Kazeha to quicken her pace.
"You've been doing those late-night deliveries again, haven't you?" Riku asked after a beat, glancing over at her with a knowing look.
Kazeha nodded, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "Yeah. I've had a lot going on lately. Those extra funds are the only way I can keep up with everything."
Riku gave her a sympathetic smile but didn't push the topic further. Instead, he kept pace with her as they walked off campus, the sound of crunching leaves beneath their feet providing a pleasant backdrop.
After several minutes, Riku pointed ahead. "That's the place," he said, gesturing toward a small café nestled between a few shops. The smell of freshly brewed coffee wafted toward them, and Kazeha's senses perked up, her tiredness briefly fading as anticipation took over.
They crossed the street and stepped into the cozy café, the warmth immediately embracing them. The soft hum of conversation and the sounds of espresso machines filled the air, along with the faint melody of background music. It was a welcome change from the cold, and Kazeha instantly felt herself relax.
Riku stepped up to the counter first, his friendly but slightly awkward demeanor shining through. "Go ahead and order whatever you want," he said, gesturing for Kazeha to pick something.
She scanned the menu quickly, her eyes lingering on the cold brew. It wasn't fancy, but it was strong enough to get her through the rest of her day. After ordering, Riku followed with an iced coffee and handed his card to the barista before Kazeha could protest.
"You really didn't have to," she said, feeling a twinge of guilt as she smiled at him.
"Nah, don't worry about it," Riku shrugged, his cheeks flushing slightly. "You've been working hard. Think of it as a recharge."
As they waited for their drinks, Kazeha leaned against the counter, glancing out the window. Students and passersby hurried along the sidewalk, bundled up against the cool autumn breeze. Inside, the warmth of the café felt like a small refuge from the outside world.
"So," Riku started, leaning back beside her. "You sure you're okay? You've seemed a bit…worn out."
Kazeha chuckled softly. "Yeah, I guess I'm just a little burnt out. I didn't sleep much last night, and everything's kind of catching up to me."
Riku's expression softened, his concern evident. "That sounds rough. You should take it easy when you can, you know?"
Kazeha smiled, appreciating his concern even though she knew it wasn't that simple. "I'll try," she said, though they both knew it was easier said than done.
Their drinks were called, and Riku grabbed both, handing Kazeha hers with a warm smile. "Here you go. Hopefully, this'll help you power through."
She took the cup gratefully, the chill of the cold brew seeping into her fingers. "Thanks, Riku. I owe you one."
They found a small table near the window and settled in, the comforting background noise of clinking cups and quiet conversation enveloping them. Kazeha took a long sip of her drink, feeling the strong bitterness hit her senses. The caffeine was a welcome jolt, bringing her back to life bit by bit. That's better, she thought with relief.
As they relaxed into the atmosphere, Kazeha glanced over at Riku. They'd known each other for a while now-this was their third class together. They'd met last year during group projects and gradually started hanging out more often. Now, they were friends, sharing similar goals for the future. Kazeha wanted to be an elementary school teacher, and Riku had plans to teach high school English. Their shared ambitions had made it easy to bond.
"Riku," Kazeha started, taking another sip. "What kind of teacher do you want to be? I don't think I've ever really asked."
Riku paused, thoughtful as always. "Good question," he said, running a hand through his tousled hair. "I love how books can change the way people think, you know? I want to help students see things from different perspectives. What about you?"
Kazeha smiled. "I'm aiming for elementary school. I want to help kids build a strong foundation, teach them to be curious and to never stop asking questions." She laughed softly. "Maybe I'm a little idealistic."
Riku's smile widened. "That's not a bad thing. We need more teachers like that."
It was easy with Riku-he never made her feel pressured or uncomfortable, and Kazeha appreciated that more than she could express. Especially on days like this when she was running on fumes. They chatted easily about class, laughing at Riku's jokes about their professor's monotone voice, which he swore could put the entire class to sleep.
But even as their conversation flowed, Kazeha's phone buzzed persistently in her pocket. She ignored it at first, not wanting to be rude, but after a few more buzzes, she pulled it out to check.
Her eyes widened slightly as she scrolled through the string of messages from her best friends in their group chat.
Mina: "KAZEHA! WHERE ARE YOU? Let's grab a late lunch! We're all starving!"
Ayaka: "Come on, Kazeha! Don't ditch us again. You canceled last time!"
Kazeha frowned, glancing at the clock. It was already mid-afternoon, and she had only a few hours before her shift at the café. Lunch? Now? She quickly scrolled through their messages to see where they were, and her heart sank when she saw the location. They were at a ramen place-a nice that at that. I can't afford that right now.
Noticing her distracted expression, Riku leaned in slightly. "Everything okay?"
"Yeah, it's just my friends," Kazeha replied, tucking her phone back into her pocket with a sigh. "They're trying to drag me out for lunch."
Riku chuckled. "Sounds like they're pretty determined this time. Think they'll let you say no?"
Kazeha sighed, already dreading the thought of this expense. I've already had coffee, and now they want me to go to a nice restaurant. She quickly typed out a response to Mina and Ayaka.
Kazeha: "I don't know guys…I just had coffee, and I've got a shift later. Next time?"
Her phone buzzed almost instantly with Mina's reply.
Mina: "No way. You've canceled on us TWICE already! :( Come hang out. It's been too long!"
Ayaka: "We miss you! Please don't cancel again. It'll be fun, promise!"
Groaning softly, Kazeha slouched in her seat. They were right-she had been avoiding them a lot lately. Work, school, and life in general had kept her busy, but she couldn't deny that she'd also been avoiding the extra expenses. Fine, she thought, resigned. But I have to be careful not to overspend.
"Thanks for the coffee, Riku," Kazeha said, standing up and slipping her bag over her shoulder. "I've got to meet up with my friends, but I'll see you next week in class?"
Riku stood as well, offering a warm smile. "Yeah, of course. See you then."
She waved before heading out of the café, her phone still buzzing with messages from Mina and Ayaka as she stepped into the cool autumn breeze. The wind rustled the amber-colored leaves at her feet, reminding her just how fast time had flown by since her last proper hangout with her friends.
The walk to the ramen restaurant felt longer than it should have, her mind swirling with thoughts of money and the constant balancing act of school and work. She knew her budget was already tight, and spending money on lunch when she had a shift later made her stomach knot with anxiety. Maybe I'll just order something small, she decided, mentally preparing herself to keep her spending in check.
As the restaurant came into view, Kazeha took a deep breath, bracing herself for the inevitable teasing from her friends-and the challenge of sticking to her plan. She couldn't avoid them forever, but she'd have to be smart about this. Maybe today won't be so bad-if she could just manage to get through without stretching her budget too thin.
The warm aroma of broth and noodles enveloped Kazeha as she stepped into the ramen shop. The bell above the door chimed softly, and she hesitated, pulling her jacket tighter around herself. The shop was cozy but bustling, with groups of students chatting animatedly at tables and solo diners slurping their noodles in comfortable silence.
In the corner, by the large window, she spotted her friends. Mina waved her over enthusiastically, her grin as bright as ever. Ayaka, quieter as usual, offered a warm smile and motioned for her to sit down.
"Finally!" Mina exclaimed as Kazeha slid into the seat across from her. "We thought you were going to bail on us again!" She noticed Kazeha shivering and reached out to grab her hands.
Mina's quirk, Instant Heat, wasn't anything world-shaking, but it made life more comfortable. She could generate just enough warmth to keep her hands toasty in the colder months or heat up food without needing a microwave. Kazeha always marveled at how practical Mina's ability was-she never complained about the cold and always seemed to have piping hot snacks ready to share.
Kazeha laughed softly. "Sorry, I got caught up with some things."
"Caught up with work, you mean." Ayaka's voice was gentle, but there was a knowing glint in her eyes. Ayaka's quirk, Flow Sense, allowed her to feel subtle changes in water currents and air pressure around her, making her extremely attuned to her surroundings. It was subtle, but it always gave her a sense of where things were headed-whether it was the weather, people's emotions, or even a shift in conversation.
Kazeha nodded, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of the menu in front of her. "Yeah, just trying to stay on top of everything. Classes, work…you know how it is."
But it was more than that. Kazeha's father worked as a temporary worker in a factory, and his employment was inconsistent at best. Sometimes he'd go for weeks or even months without steady work, leaving Kazeha to pick up extra shifts to make ends meet. She never liked talking about it, but it weighed heavily on her.
Mina rolled her eyes dramatically. "Ugh, I don't know how you do it. I barely survive one shift at the bookstore, let alone juggling two jobs and school."
Kazeha smiled, but her stomach tightened as the familiar tug of responsibility weighed on her. It wasn't that she didn't want to spend time with her friends, but the constant need to work-to keep up with never-ending cycle of expenses-made her feel like she was always one step behind. Mina and Ayaka didn't seemed to have those same pressure. They were always talking about weekend plans, shopping trips and casual lunches like this one, while Kazeha struggled to make every yen stretch.
She glanced down at the menu, scanning the options with a careful eye. Everything looks so good..but I really shouldn't spend too much. She mentally calculated the cost of the smallest bowl of ramen, already making a note to skip the extras, like an appetizer or a drink. She just had coffee with Riku and owed him for her drink.
"Order whatever you want, it's on me today," Mina declared, breaking through Kazeha's thoughts.
Kazeha blinked, surprised. "What? No, Mina, you don't have to do that."
Mina waved her off, her grin widening. "I insist! You work way too hard and never get to treat yourself."
Kazeha hesitated, feeling that familiar pang of guilt rise in her chest. But her stomach growled softly, reminding her that she hadn't eaten much all day. The smell of the broth was tempting, and Mina's offer was genuine.
"Okay, fine," Kazeha relented, a small smile tugging at her lips. "But I'll get something small."
Mina's eyes sparkled with victory as she clapped her hands together. "Perfect! I'm starving. Let's get a feast!"
As the waitress came over to take their order, Mina rattled off an enthusiastic list of dishes-two bowls of ramen, gyoza, and karaage chicken. Ayaka ordered a simple ramen bowl with extra veggies. When it was Kazeha's turn, she hesitated again.
"I'll just have the regular ramen," she said softly, her voice almost drowned out by the chatter of the restaurant. "No extras."
Mina shot her a look but didn't argue, turning back to Ayaka to continue their conversation about a new movie that had just come out.
Kazeha sat back in her seat, allowing herself to relax for the first time in what felt like days. The warmth of the ramen shop, the laughter of her friends, and the comforting murmur of voices around them made the world outside feel distant-just for a little while.
"So, Kazeha," Ayaka began gently. "How's work been? Are you still doing those late-night deliveries?"
Kazeha nodded, sipping her water. "Yeah. It's exhausting, but the extra cash helps. With tuition and rent, I don't really have a choice."
Mina frowned, leaning forward slightly. "You know, you could always ask your dad for help, right? You don't have to kill yourself working all the time."
Kazeha's smile faltered, her heart sinking at the mention of her father. It wasn't that simple. Her dad supported her in his own way, but they didn't always see eye to eye when it came to her juggling work and school. He wanted her to focus solely on her studies, but he didn't understand the pressure she felt to keep up financially.
"It's fine," Kazeha said quickly, brushing off Mina's suggestion. "I've got it under control."
Ayaka gave her a concerned look, but Mina, ever the optimist, brightened. "Well, if you ever need a break, we should totally plan a weekend getaway! Just us, no work, no stress."
Kazeha smiled, appreciating the thought, though she knew deep down that a trip wasn't in her budget anytime soon. Still, it was nice to dream.
"So," Mina began, picking up her chopsticks, "speaking of a break, Kenji's been driving me crazy lately. He keeps asking me to come over, but every time I do, he's glued to his video games! I swear, if I hear one more explosion or see him yelling at his friends through his headset, I'm going to lose it."
Ayaka laughed softly, nodding. "Shun's been the same way with his phone. It's like he can't even sit through a meal without checking social media every five minutes."
Kazeha listened, a small smile playing on her lips as her friends vented about their boyfriends, but a part of her felt distant from the conversation. It had been over a year since her last relationship-a quiet breakup that had simply fizzled out. She didn't miss it, not really, but every now and then, when her friends talked about their boyfriends, Kazeha couldn't help but feel a small tug of longing.
"You've been awfully quiet," Mina teased, poking at Kazeha's arm with her chopsticks. "Don't tell me you've got some secret romance you're hiding from us!"
Kazeha's eyes widened, and she shook her head quickly. "What? No, of course not."
Ayaka leaned in, her curiosity piqued. "What about that guy in your class-Riku, right? He's been hanging around you a lot lately."
Kazeha sighed, knowing where this was going. "Riku? We're just friends. He's a nice guy, but that's it."
Mina waggled her eyebrows suggestively, clearly not buying it. "Uh-huh, 'just friends,' huh? He's always looking out for you, you know. Are you sure there's nothing going on there?"
Kazeha felt her face flush deeper at Mina's playful tone, her cheeks growing warm with embarrassment. "Seriously, there's nothing going on," she insisted, though her voice wavered slightly. She hadn't thought about Riku like that, but the way Mina was looking at her now made her feel...flustered.
Mina's grin turned more mischievous as she leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a teasing whisper. "Well, it's been a while for you, hasn't it"
Kazeha's eyes widened even more, and her blush deepened, spreading down her neck. "Mina!" she protested, her voice a mix of laughter and mortification. The comment hit a little too close to home, making Kazeha acutely aware of how long it had been since she'd been with someone intimately. She hadn't given it much thought lately, too busy with school and work, but now that Mina had brought it up, it was impossible to ignore.
"Come on, Kazeha, you know I'm just messing with you," Mina said with a wink, clearly enjoying how flustered she'd made her friend. "But really, when was the last time you had a little fun?"
Kazeha buried her face in her hands, still laughing but thoroughly embarrassed. "You're impossible," she muttered, her voice muffled by her hands. Has it really been that long? She hadn't realized how much time had passed since her last relationship until now, and the sudden realization left her feeling a little embarrassed-and maybe a little lonely, too.
Ayaka giggled softly, her smile gentle. "Don't tease her too much, Mina."
"Hey, I'm just looking out for her!" Mina said with a wink. "Everyone needs a little fun every now and then."
Kazeha lowered her hands, still blushing but laughing softly along with them. "Why did I even come?"
They eventually moved on to other topics, but Kazeha couldn't shake the flustered feeling Mina's teasing had left behind. It really has been a while...she mused to herself, sipping her water. But I'm fine on my own. I don't need to rush into anything. Even so, the idea of being with someone-of having that connection again-lingered in the back of her mind, no matter how hard she tried to push it away.
The food arrived a few moments later, and the conversation drifted into lighter territory-movies, gossip about their classmates, and Mina's hilarious recount of a difficult customer at the bookstore. Kazeha found herself laughing more than she had in weeks, the warmth of the broth and the comfort of her friends easing the weight of her responsibilities, if only for a little while.
As they finished their meal and the check arrived, Kazeha's phone buzzed in her pocket, pulling her attention away from the warmth and comfort of the ramen shop. She sighed softly, her heart sinking when she saw the screen light up with her alarm-a reminder that the real world was still waiting outside, and she needed to leave soon if she wanted to clock in on time.
"Duty calls," she muttered under her breath, slipping the phone back into her pocket and reaching for her bag. The brief escape she had enjoyed was coming to an end, and the weight of her responsibilities was already beginning to creep back in.
"Thanks for lunch, Mina. I really appreciate it," Kazeha said, offering a genuine smile as she stood up. "You too Ayaka."
Mina waved her off with a cheerful grin. "Anytime! We'll do this again soon, for sure."
Kazeha's smile lingered as she pushed open the door and stepped outside into the crisp autumn air. The familiar weight of her daily responsibilities settled heavily on her shoulders, and the world outside seemed to move a little faster, a little more real.
Back to reality.
Kazeha dragged herself toward the café, her body feeling heavy after the long afternoon. The vibrant autumn sky was still shimmered with warm hues of orange and pink, and she couldn't help sighing as she glanced at the fading sun. What a waste of a beautiful afternoon, she thought bitterly. Another afternoon spent indoors, missing out on the crisp, colorful season while she worked. Adjusting the strap of her bag on her shoulder, her feet moving with sluggish familiarity as she trudged to work. The routine-classes, then work, followed by even more work-had begun to feel like an endless cycle.
Is this all I'm meant to do? The question surfaced unexpectedly, a quiet whisper in the back of her mind. She bit her lip and shook it off. She had responsibilities, but that didn't stop the nagging voice, that creeping doubt making her wonder if there was more to life than rushing from one job to the next. A fleeting, wild thought surfaced in her mind. Should I have done something exciting instead? Become a hero with my quirk, maybe?
She chuckled to herself, the idea so absurd, yet strangely tempting. Instead, I'm here, she mused with a sigh, wasting my skills as a delivery girl and a barista.
It was just a moment of weakness, a glimpse into a life that might have been had she made different choices. But she quickly pushed the thought away, straightening her posture as the café came into view. No. I'm not going to give up. I just need to tough it out, she told herself firmly. She had made it this far, hadn't she?
The familiar glow of the café's sign greeted her as she stepped inside. The hum of the espresso machines and the low chatter of customers filled the air. The comforting smell of freshly brewed coffee washed over her, and despite her exhaustion, Kazeha felt a small sense of comfort. She had worked here long enough that it almost felt like a second home-if not a particularly exciting one.
"Kazeha, cutting it close again, huh?" Haru, one of her coworkers, teased as she clocked in. He leaned casually on the counter, flashing her a playful grin. Haru always had a lighthearted vibe, and his teasing had become a regular part of their shifts together.
Kazeha managed a tired smile. "Yeah, yeah. You know me-always running just on time."
Ayumi, another barista, popped her head out from the back, waving a dish towel. "At least she made it. I was starting to worry we'd have to survive the evening without her expert coffee-making skills."
Kazeha laughed softly, her exhaustion easing a little as the friendly banter lightened her mood. "You'd all fall apart without me, admit it."
The café was still bustling, but the dinner rush had passed, leaving a steady flow of customers. Kazeha tied on her apron and slipped behind the counter, falling into the familiar rhythm of taking orders, making drinks, and cleaning up the occasional spill.
Yet as the evening wore on, time seemed to drag, each minute stretching longer than the last. She served customers, cleaned the espresso machine, and wiped down tables, each task blending into the next. Her mind started to wander again, this time drifting toward the mountain of homework awaiting her once the shift ended.
I'll have to pull another late night to get ahead, she thought, her heart sinking at the idea of staying up until dawn-again. The weight of her responsibilities felt like a constant pressure on her chest. Work, school, bills-it never stops.
She glanced up at the clock. Two more hours. It felt like an eternity.
Finally, the café began to quiet down as closing time approached. The last few customers trickled out, leaving just Kazeha, Haru, and Ayumi to clean up. The soft clinking of mugs echoed in the now-quiet space, the faint smell of coffee still lingering in the air. Chairs were flipped onto tables, and the hum of chatter had long since faded into silence.
Kazeha, pausing for a moment, pulled out her phone and clicked on her bank app. As the screen loaded, her brow furrowed at the sight of her balance. She sighed quietly, the tension in her shoulders creeping back. Another shift delivering wouldn't hurt, right? Maybe it could ease her financial worries, even just a little.
Ayumi, glancing over while stacking chairs, noticed the expression on Kazeha's face. "I know that look," she said, shaking her head. "Forget it. You should skip your deliveries tonight."
Kazeha glanced up, blinking. "Huh?"
"You look dead tired, Kazeha," Ayumi insisted, her tone both gentle and firm. "Go home, get some rest, and catch up on your homework. You've been running on fumes all week."
Kazeha hesitated. Skipping deliveries would mean less money, but the thought of collapsing into bed sounded more appealing than ever. Maybe Ayumi was right. Who was she kidding, her coworker was always on the nose about these things. She sighed. "Yeah, maybe you're right. I'll take a night off."
"You're always running yourself ragged, Kazeha," Haru added, wiping down the counter. "You need to take a break sometimes."
She smiled at them, grateful for their concern. "I know, I know. I'll try." But even as she said it, she knew she couldn't afford to stop. There was always something to do, some looming deadline. With her dad's temporary work at the factory, the financial burden fell squarely on her shoulders. She had learned to carry that weight alone, with no room for breaks.
As they finished closing up, Kazeha's thoughts drifted back to her earlier musings. What if I had done something different? She imagined a life where she used her quirk for more than just making deliveries or serving coffee. It was a ridiculous idea, and yet...it lingered, teasing her with the possibilities of a life she had never explored.
The cool evening air wrapped around Kazeha as she stepped out of the café, the lingering warmth of the coffee shop quickly fading from her skin. She zipped her jacket tighter, her breath misting faintly in the crisp autumn air as she began the familiar walk home. Fatigue settled deep into her bones, making her steps feel heavier than usual. The long day had taken its toll-classes, the hangout, and a late shift at the café. It all blurred together, the weight of it dragging her down as she trudged along the quiet, empty streets.
The dim glow of streetlights flickered above her, casting long shadows that stretched across the pavement. Shop windows, once bustling with life, now stood dark and silent at this late hour. Her thoughts drifted as she walked, her mind swirling with the usual worries: homework piling up, work shifts, and the endless cycle of her routine. Just a few more blocks, she told herself, her gaze focused on the road ahead. Once I graduate, everything will fall into place. Things will get better. But even as she reassured herself, the exhaustion weighed heavily on her, making the thought of the future feel like another burden to carry.
Her footsteps echoed lightly on the pavement, the quiet streets amplifying every sound. Normally, even at this hour, there would be some life-a passing car, a late-night walker-but tonight, the city felt unusually still. The silence was almost eerie, the usual hum of distant traffic replaced by the rustle of wind through the trees. She hadn't realized how late it had gotten. Too late to be out walking alone, a small voice in her head whispered, though she brushed it off.
As she approached a crosswalk, Kazeha slowed, a deep sigh escaping her lips. She was tired-more than tired. The thought of using her quirk, Air Currents, crossed her mind for a fleeting moment, the temptation of cutting her walk time in half by flying home, riding the air currents. But she dismissed it almost immediately. Manipulating the air around her took effort, effort she didn't have after a day like this. The exhaustion ran too deep. Plus, it wasn't exactly legal for her to use her quirk like that. Of course, that didn't stop her from doing it for deliveries, but she wasn't about to risk it now. Not when she could barely keep her eyes open.
Flying would've been nice, she thought wryly, but tonight, she'd have to settle for walking.
As she approached a crosswalk, Kazeha's pace slowed slightly, a deep sigh escaping her lips. The relentless grind of her daily routine was wearing her down. Is this all I'm meant to do? That nagging thought crept back into her mind, a constant presence. Classes, work, and more work.
Her breath fogged in the air as she came to a stop, waiting for the light to change. Her eyes drifted across the street, her mind still lost in thought when something caught her attention-a figure, standing just at the edge of the shadows, leaning casually against the wall of a narrow alley.
Her breath hitched slightly, her body instinctively tensing. He was barely visible in the dim light, his tall figure blending seamlessly into the shadows. A hood covered most of his face, the lower half hidden behind the high collar of his jacket. But even with the distance between them, she could feel his gaze-sharp and focused, as if he were watching her.
For a moment, she froze, her heart quickening. It wasn't fear exactly, but there was something unnerving about the way he stood there, unmoving, his posture too deliberate, too controlled. For a split second, their eyes met, his dark gaze locking with hers, and the world around her seemed to still. The noise of the city faded, replaced by an odd, heavy silence that hung in the air between them.
The intensity of his stare was palpable, and Kazeha felt a strange energy crackle in the space between them, like a current she couldn't see but could definitely feel. Her pulse raced, though she couldn't quite explain why. She didn't know this man-had never seen him before-but in that brief moment, it felt like he was studying her, sizing her up, as though he already knew something about her that she didn't.
Her muscles tensed, the primal urge to move, to get away, creeping up her spine. But she couldn't look away. Not yet. His presence was magnetic, holding her in place, as though she was caught in a web she hadn't noticed until it was too late.
The light changed, the soft click of the signal breaking the moment. Kazeha blinked, her breath finally escaping in a shaky exhale. She turned her head quickly and crossed the street, her steps quickening as she put distance between herself and the alley. Her mind buzzed with a low hum of unease. She didn't dare look back, but she could still feel it-his gaze lingering on her, following her every move.
It's just some guy, she tried to tell herself, her steps quickening as she put the alley behind her. There's nothing to worry about. Just another stranger. But the words felt hollow, and deep down, she knew that whatever had just happened wasn't something she could easily brush off. There was something about him-something dangerous, something electric-that had reached out and unsettled her in a way she couldn't quite explain.
Her thoughts spun as she turned the corner toward her apartment, her mind replaying the image of him standing in the shadows, the faint outline of his hooded figure, the sharpness of his eyes. It stuck with her, lingering in the back of her mind even as she tried to focus on other things.
It's nothing, she told herself again, though the unease gnawed at her. Just a random encounter. But despite her best efforts to forget, the memory of him lingered, like a phantom presence that refused to leave. She didn't know why, but something told her this wouldn't be the last time she crossed paths with the stranger in the shadows.
Dabi stood there, leaning against the wall with his hood pulled low, casting his features in shadow. The cool night air bit at his skin, but it barely registered; he was used to worse. The city around him felt distant, almost as if the rest of the world was moving while he stood still in a forgotten corner.
He wasn't supposed to be out here, exposed like a sitting target. Why the hell did Toga want to meet in a place like this? Dabi thought, a flicker of irritation crossing his mind. His eyes scanned the street again. This wasn't his style-standing out in the open, lingering where anyone could see him.
His eyes narrowed as he surveyed the street again, half-expecting Toga to pop out from behind a corner. She better have a good reason for dragging me out here, he thought, his impatience brewing. This wasn't the kind of place he liked to linger—too many eyes, too many chances to be seen. Dabi preferred the shadows, where he could move unnoticed. But for now, here he was, waiting. Toga always did have a flair for dragging him into things he hated, her erratic nature forcing him into situations he would rather avoid. She'd promised him a surprise tonight, which, more than anything, had piqued his curiosity enough to come.
It wasn't until a flicker of movement caught his eye from across the street that his attention shifted. At first, it seemed like nothing-just another passerby, like so many others before. But then, his gaze locked on her.
A girl stood at the crosswalk, waiting for the light to change. Her silver-blue hair cascaded down her back, catching the faint glow of the streetlamp, shimmering in the soft breeze. It wasn't the color that intrigued him, though it stood out against the dreary backdrop of the city-it was the way she carried herself. Her eyes seemed distant, dulled by exhaustion. Her slumped shoulders told the story of someone worn down by the weight of a life that didn't fit. She looked ordinary enough, but something nagged at him.
Something familiar.
Dabi's gaze lingered longer than he intended. She didn't seem like much-just another person trapped in the monotony of a mundane routine. But there was something in the way she stood, unaware of the world's intensity yet somehow feeling it. She was tired-distracted, maybe even lost.
Dabi's brow furrowed slightly as he watched her. His mind was working, turning over pieces of memory. He didn't know her, not directly at least, but there was something about the way she carried herself. That hair. The way she moved. Where had he seen her before?
The moment passed, the thought slipping away before he could pin it down. He kept thinking back, trying to figure out why she seemed familiar. It wasn't just her face or her hair. It was something else. Something he couldn't quite grasp.
Where do I know her from?
Their eyes met for a split second, a flash of recognition passing between them. Dabi caught the faint flicker of unease in her expression. She had sensed him.
Interesting.
The light changed, and she hurried across, breaking the moment between them. Dabi didn't move, still leaning against the wall, but a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. He had noticed her, but more importantly, she had noticed him. Silver-blue hair, tired eyes-she didn't look like much, but there was something there. Something that made him curious about her story.
Before he could dwell on it further, the unmistakable sound of footsteps echoed through the alley. Light and quick, accompanied by a familiar giggle. He didn't need to turn around to know who it was.
Toga Himiko burst into view from the shadows, her manic grin wide as ever and playful energy immediately filling the empty space around him. "There you are!" she chirped, practically bouncing toward him, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I was starting to think you got bored waiting for me!"
Dabi gave her a flat look. "You could've picked a better spot, Toga. I don't like standing around like some idiot."
Toga twirled around, arms spread wide, her laughter filling the alley as though she hadn't heard his complaint. "But it's more fun this way! Besides, it's all part of the surprise."
Dabi rolled his eyes, but the faint smirk still lingered. "This better be good."
Toga leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Oh, it will be. You'll thank me later."
Dabi didn't reply, his attention briefly flicking back to where the girl had disappeared around the corner. He hadn't expected to notice anyone tonight, but the silver-blue-haired girl had caught his eye. He didn't know why, but something told him that this wouldn't be the last time he saw her.
And that thought, more than anything, was enough to make his smirk widen just a little.
Author's Note: I'm so sorry if this chapter came out super boring. I wanted to focus a little on Kazeha's personal life before it gets shaken up by our favorite villain. Next chapter will include their first interaction. It won't be anything crazy, just something to set the pieces into play.
Thank you very much for reading or even clicking on this story! Feel free to leave some love! It's not necessary but very appreciated!
Tsubaki Kazeha © lvvesiickie
My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) manga © Kōhei Horikoshi
My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) anime © Bones
