Chapter 13 Party disaster

Toga hung up the phone, flopping back onto the couch with a dramatic sigh. "Did he just say something about fighting terrorists?"

Rumi rolled her eyes, leaning against the counter as she crossed her arms. "Yeah, he did. So what? Let it go. It's not our problem."

Toga raised an eyebrow. "I mean, it kind of is our problem. What if something happens to him?"

Rumi snorted, a casual smirk tugging at her lips. "Toga, please. This is him we're talking about. The guy can take down armed criminals like it's a warm-up exercise. If anything, we should be praying for the terrorists. They're the ones who don't know what's coming."

Toga blinked, then chuckled, a crooked grin spreading across her face. "You know what? You're right. He's a freaking menace. Half the time he doesn't even use his psychic powers. It's all fists, like he's got something to prove."

Rumi shrugged, grabbing an apple from the fruit bowl and biting into it. "Exactly. So stop worrying. He'll be fine. You'll see him tomorrow, in one piece, probably with some ridiculous story about how he took down a whole building by himself."

Toga let out a deep sigh, leaning forward and resting her chin in her hands. "Fine, fine. You win. Anyway, since we've got the place to ourselves, I'm thinking… party time?"

Rumi tilted her head. "Party? Small, right? Nothing too crazy."

"Of course," Toga said, grinning mischievously. "Just a few friends. I'll invite some of my animal gals—they're the only ones who don't look at me like I'm about to dispose of a body or something. Though, to be fair, most of them still think my boyfriend's Yakuza, so that doesn't help."

Rumi laughed. "I'm not surprised. You don't exactly scream 'normal relationship,' you know."

"Hey!" Toga protested, sticking her tongue out. "Anyway, I think the sheep girl will come. A couple of the others, too. They're a little scared of me, but they're fun once they loosen up."

Rumi nodded thoughtfully. "Alright. I'll bring a few people too. Let's see… Mirio, Tamaki, Nejire, and maybe Ryuko. They're all second years in my class."

Toga raised an eyebrow. "That's a pretty solid lineup, but you don't seem all that excited about the guys."

Rumi shrugged again, finishing her apple. "Eh, the two boys are alright, but I'm mostly inviting them because Nejire's adorable, and she'll drag them along anyway. Besides, I don't need more competition for the snacks."

Toga smirked. "Fair point. Alright, I'll handle snacks and movies. Keep it simple. No crazy themes or anything, right?"

"Right," Rumi agreed, standing up and stretching. "I'll grab some drinks."

Toga nodded and headed off to gather party supplies, humming to herself. Chips, candy, soda, popcorn—the basics. She even found some cute paper plates and cups with animal patterns, laughing to herself at the unintentional irony.

Meanwhile, Rumi had a different plan. She slipped out to visit a contact she knew, returning with several bottles of liquor hidden in a sturdy bag. As she placed the bottles on the counter, she eyed the punch bowl thoughtfully, a devious grin spreading across her face.

"Nothing too crazy, huh?" she muttered, pouring the contents of one of the bottles into the punch. "Well, they're definitely not going to forget this night—or the next morning."

She chuckled to herself, imagining the chaos that was sure to follow. Mixing the punch thoroughly, she stepped back and admired her handiwork. "Perfect."

The doorbell rang, and Toga bounced up, her golden eyes sparkling with excitement. "Alright! Guests are here!" she chirped, grabbing a stack of plates and bowls of chips. She gestured toward the pizza boxes on the counter. "Don't let the food go cold! It's a party, people!"

One by one, the guests filed in. Mirio, Tamaki, Nejire, and Ryuko were the first to arrive, followed by a small group of Toga's "animal gals," each with distinct features—a sheep girl with curly hair, a sleek cat-like girl with piercing green eyes, and a peppy squirrel girl with a twitchy tail. The room quickly filled with chatter and laughter as everyone made themselves at home.

Toga grinned, gesturing around. "Welcome to our new place! Feel free to look around, but don't snoop too much. I'll know."

The guests chuckled, spreading out to explore. Rumi, however, was quickly surrounded by Nejire and Ryuko. The two girls peppered her with questions, their curiosity bubbling over.

"Rumi, where have you been?" Nejire asked, her blue hair swaying as she leaned closer. "We went to your place a few times, but it was totally empty! Did you move without telling us?"

Ryuko crossed her arms, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, you just disappeared! What gives?"

Rumi smirked, leaning casually against the wall. "Well, you see, after defeating the Yakuza boy, he fell to his knees, begging for me to become his master. Naturally, I decided to fulfill his request. Now, I'm training him as my disciple."

Nejire and Ryuko blinked in surprise. "Wait… you turned a Yakuza guy into your disciple?" Ryuko asked, her tone half-skeptical, half-impressed. "Is that even a good idea?"

"Of course it is!" Rumi replied confidently, puffing out her chest. "I'm going to beat the evil out of him every day until he's acting right."

The two girls burst into laughter, their voices echoing through the room. Nejire wiped a tear from her eye. "Oh my gosh, Rumi, you're too much! Beating the evil out of him—classic."

Ryuko grinned. "Well, I guess that's one way to do it. Speaking of which, when are you seeing him next?"

Rumi's confident smirk faltered slightly, and her brow furrowed. "The next time I see him, I am kicking his ass," she grumbled, crossing her arms. "For what he did to me…"

Her face turned red as the memory of the phone call resurfaced, anger bubbling up alongside her embarrassment. "That shameless, embarrassing excuse for a man—"

Toga, who had been passing out plates, stopped and tilted her head, her fox-like ears twitching with curiosity. "Wait, are you talking about the kiss? I mean, if you didn't want him to kiss you, you probably shouldn't have been sleeping in the same bed with him."

Rumi's head snapped toward Toga, her crimson eyes wide. "No! That's not what I meant, Toga!" she said quickly, her voice rising in pitch. "I was talking about—"

But before she could finish, Nejire and Ryuko saw their opportunity and pounced. Nejire's blue eyes sparkled mischievously as she leaned closer. "Wait, wait, wait—you were in his bed? Rumi, what were you doing there? Hmmm?"

Ryuko smirked, crossing her arms as she joined in. "Yeah, Rumi. Care to explain? Or are you just going to leave us hanging?"

Rumi's ears twitched as she tried to stammer out a response. "It wasn't like that! It was—"

Nejire gasped dramatically, cutting her off. "Oh my gosh, Rumi, are you still a virgin? Is that why you're so flustered? Did something happen?"

Rumi's face turned beet red. "That's none of your business!" she snapped, her voice cracking slightly. "And nothing happened! I swear!"

Ryuko grinned, tapping a finger against her chin. "So, nothing happened, huh? Then why were you in his bed? And why's your face so red? You're acting super suspicious, Rumi."

Nejire leaned even closer, her grin widening. "Yeah, Rumi. Did you maybe want something to happen?"

Rumi's hands balled into fists as she glared at the two of them. "Will you two shut up already?!"

Toga, meanwhile, was practically doubled over with laughter, her golden eyes glinting mischievously. "Oh, this is priceless. I should've recorded this."

Rumi growled, pointing a finger at Toga. "Don't even think about it, Fox Girl! I'll kick your ass next if you don't stop laughing!"

Toga raised her hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright! I'll behave—for now."

The party continued in full swing, the atmosphere growing livelier as the snacks dwindled and the effects of Rumi's spiked punch began to take hold. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves—except Tamaki, who was standing stiffly in the corner, his hands fidgeting as he avoided eye contact with the crowd.

Mirio, ever the cheerful one, made his way over to his friend, clapping a hand on his shoulder. "Hey, Tamaki! Why are you over here all by yourself? Come on, join the fun!"

Tamaki glanced at him, his face pale. "I… I think I'd rather go home, Mirio. This isn't really my thing."

Mirio crouched slightly to look him in the eyes, his warm smile never wavering. "Aw, don't say that. We'll keep it low-key for you, I promise. You don't have to talk to everyone—just stick with me. How about that?"

Tamaki hesitated, his gaze flickering to the lively crowd. "I… I don't know. Everyone's so loud."

Mirio laughed, patting his shoulder. "That's just part of the fun! I'll stick with you, okay? You don't have to say a word if you don't want to. Let me do all the talking."

Tamaki nodded reluctantly. "Okay… but I'm not drinking."

"That's fine! I'll drink enough for both of us!" Mirio said with a laugh, dragging Tamaki a little closer to the group.

At one point, Nejire leaned over to Rumi, her voice playful. "Hey, Rumi, do you think you'd ever act in a movie like this? You'd be perfect as the kickass heroine."

Rumi snorted, taking another sip of her drink. "As long as I get to punch people, I'm in."

Ryuko smirked. "You'd probably steal the show. Or break the set."

"Ha, very funny," Rumi said, though she couldn't help but laugh.

Toga, sprawled out on the floor with a bowl of popcorn, threw a kernel at them. "Quiet down, you two. Some of us are trying to appreciate the cinematic masterpiece on screen."

Mirio raised his glass, his face flushed from the punch. "To cinematic masterpieces and great friends!"

The party had reached a fever pitch, the effects of Rumi's spiked punch hitting full force. Everyone except Tamaki was visibly plastered, laughter echoing through the room as people stumbled over their own feet or clinked their glasses together in overly enthusiastic toasts.

Rumi, fully leaning into the chaos, stood on the coffee table, holding a slice of pizza in one hand and a half-empty cup of punch in the other. "You guys don't appreciate me enough!" she slurred, her crimson eyes wide and unfocused. "I'm like… the best fighter here. None of you could beat me! Not even all of you together!"

Toga, lounging on the couch with a bag of chips, grinned up at her. "Oh, totally, Rumi. You're an unstoppable force of nature. Now, maybe get off the table before you fall and break something."

Rumi wobbled slightly, pointing her pizza slice at Toga. "You think I can't balance? I can balance! Watch this!" She lifted one leg, her ears twitching proudly, but the sudden shift made her sway dangerously.

Nejire jumped up, laughing as she tried to steady her friend. "Rumi, you're gonna fall! Come on, get down from there!"

Rumi looked at Nejire with a serious expression—or as serious as she could manage in her drunken state. "Nejire, you're too pure for this world. Did you know that? Like, you're a little angel. With blue hair. And sparkles."

Nejire blinked, then burst out laughing. "Rumi, you're drunk out of your mind."

"I'm not drunk," Rumi insisted, her words slurring more by the second. "I'm… invincible!"

Ryuko grabbed Rumi's arm, trying to pull her down. "Okay, invincible bunny, time to sit before you hurt yourself."

Meanwhile, across the room, Mirio was dealing with his own problems—or, more accurately, creating them. His quirk had activated randomly, causing his shirt to phase through his body and fall to the floor. "Oops!" he said with a laugh, standing shirtless in the middle of the room. "Guess I'm losing my clothes again!"

Tamaki groaned, pressing a hand to his forehead. "Mirio, just deactivate your quirk and put your shirt back on."

"I can't!" Mirio replied, throwing his arms out dramatically. "It's not my fault my quirk has a mind of its own when I'm drunk!"

Ryuko, trying to wrangle Rumi off the coffee table, glanced over and sighed. "Mirio, for the love of everything, keep your pants on at least."

"Too late!" Mirio said cheerfully as his pants slipped to the floor, leaving him in just his boxers. He bent down to grab them, only for his boxers to phase through his body as well. "Whoops!"

The room erupted in laughter as Nejire quickly grabbed a throw blanket and tossed it over him. "Mirio! Put some clothes on! You're traumatizing Tamaki!"

Tamaki stood frozen in the corner, his face buried in his hands. "I want to go home…"

Toga, tears streaming down her face from laughing so hard, waved a hand at Mirio. "Mirio, buddy, you've got to get it together. At least wear the blanket like a toga or something. We can't keep seeing all of you!"

Mirio wrapped the blanket around himself like a dramatic cape, striking a heroic pose. "Fear not, citizens! I am here to save the party!"

Rumi, now sitting cross-legged on the coffee table with a dazed expression, pointed at him. "You're a terrible hero. You lost your pants! What kind of hero loses their pants?"

Mirio laughed, hopping off the couch. "The fun kind of hero!"

Ryuko, shaking her head in disbelief, managed to pull Rumi off the coffee table and plop her onto the couch. "Alright, that's enough out of you, bunny. Just sit here and be quiet for a bit."

Rumi giggled, leaning her head back. "You guys don't even know how amazing I am. I could fight anyone." She squinted at Nejire. "Nejire! Fight me!"

Nejire waved her hands in front of her face, backing away. "No way, Rumi! I'm not fighting you!"

Toga, still eating chips, chimed in. "I'd pay to see that, though."

Tamaki, still in the corner, groaned. "I want to leave so badly…"

The chaos continued as Mirio, now wrapped in his makeshift toga, pretended to spar with an imaginary villain, accidentally knocking over a lamp in the process. Rumi kept trying to climb back onto the coffee table, only to be stopped by Ryuko each time. Nejire tried to calm everyone down but ended up laughing too hard to be effective. And Toga? She was just enjoying the show, lounging with a satisfied grin as the party spiraled further out of control.

The next morning, the living room was a complete war zone. The couch was flipped on its side, the coffee table was splintered into pieces, and the TV was shattered beyond repair. Empty cups, half-eaten slices of pizza, and crumpled chip bags were scattered everywhere. A faint smell of spilled punch lingered in the air.

The partygoers were sprawled across the room, groaning as they woke up one by one, clutching their heads and shielding their eyes from the sunlight streaming through the windows.

Nejire sat up first, her blue hair sticking up in every direction. "Ugh… why does my head feel like it's been run over by a bus?" she groaned, rubbing her temples.

Ryuko grumbled from her spot on the floor, where she'd been using a pillow stuffed under her head at an awkward angle. "If you find the bus, let me know. I think it hit me too."

Toga yawned from her spot on the couch cushions piled on the floor. "Morning, everyone," she said groggily, sitting up and stretching. Her golden eyes narrowed as she looked around the trashed living room. "Wow. This place is… a disaster."

"Understatement of the year," Ryuko muttered, sitting up and rubbing her neck. "What even happened last night?"

Rumi, who was sprawled on the couch with her ears drooping and a blanket haphazardly thrown over her, let out a loud groan. "You all got drunk," she said bluntly, her voice hoarse.

Nejire blinked, looking confused. "Drunk? But… I don't even remember drinking that much…"

Ryuko frowned, her brow furrowing. "Wait. Why did we all get drunk?"

Rumi grinned weakly, raising a hand. "That's on me," she said, her voice slurring slightly from her own lingering hangover. "I… uh… might have spiked the punch."

The room went silent for a moment before Nejire groaned loudly, flopping back onto the floor. "Rumi! I thought I was just vibing! I didn't know the punch was spiked!"

Ryuko's eyes narrowed dangerously as she stood up, cracking her knuckles. "Rumi, you absolute menace. You spiked the punch? Without telling anyone?"

Rumi winced, raising her hands defensively. "Hey, hey, in my defense, I thought it'd be funny! And everyone was having a good time, right?"

Ryuko took a step closer, her fists clenched. "You're lucky I'm too hungover to punch you right now. But once this headache goes away, you're getting a fist to the face."

Mirio, lying face down on the floor with a blanket still draped over his shoulders, let out a weak laugh. "I figured it out halfway through, but by then, it was too late. I was already three cups deep."

Toga chuckled, shaking her head. "I'm not even mad. Honestly, I was having too much fun to care. Besides," she gestured at the trashed room, "this chaos is kind of impressive."

"Impressive?" Nejire asked, sitting up again and glaring at Toga. "We broke the TV! And half the furniture!"

Ryuko groaned, glancing at the broken coffee table. "And I'm pretty sure this was an antique. Who's paying for all of this?"

Rumi waved a hand lazily. "Relax, it's not like we don't know a certain broccoli boy who'll probably cover it for us."

Toga snickered. "You mean the disciple you're supposed to be training? Good luck explaining all of this to him."

The group spent the next half hour attempting to clean up the worst of the mess. Ryuko swept up broken glass from the TV while Nejire piled up the pizza boxes and cups. Mirio tried to help but kept accidentally phasing objects through his hands, dropping them back onto the floor.

Eventually, the guests began to filter out, saying their goodbyes as they left. Nejire hugged Rumi tightly. "Next time, warn me if you're spiking the drinks, okay?"

Rumi grinned sheepishly. "Deal."

Ryuko shook her head as she walked out the door. "You're still getting punched later. Don't think I forgot."

As the last guest left, Toga and Rumi collapsed onto the couch—or what was left of it. The room was still a disaster despite their efforts. The TV was unsalvageable, the coffee table was gone, and even some of Mei's support equipment had been knocked over and damaged during the night.

"Well," Toga said, leaning back and sighing, "that was one hell of a party."

Rumi nodded, her ears twitching slightly. "Totally worth it."

Toga smirked. "You do realize he's going to flip when he sees this, right?"

Rumi shrugged. "Eh, he'll get over it. Besides," she added with a grin, "he'll probably just be glad we didn't burn the place down."

Toga laughed, her golden eyes glinting mischievously. "True. But next time, maybe warn me about the punch too. I had no idea you were so sneaky."

"Noted," Rumi said, leaning back and closing her eyes. "Now, let's take a nap before we even think about dealing with him."

As the two girls drifted off into a hungover sleep, the trashed room around them stood as a chaotic monument to their unforgettable night.

Mei and Izuku

The warehouse door creaked open, and Izuku and Mei stepped inside, both immediately halting in their tracks. Their eyes widened as they took in the absolute chaos before them. The living room area was completely trashed. The coffee table was in splinters, the couch was flipped, and the TV screen was shattered into a web of cracks. Empty cups, pizza boxes, and other remnants of the previous night's debauchery were scattered everywhere.

Izuku's gaze shifted to the beanbag chair, where Rumi and Toga were sprawled, sound asleep. Toga was curled up like a contented fox, while Rumi's ears drooped lazily, her blanket barely covering her. He let out a heavy sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Mei's attention was immediately drawn to the far corner, where her precious inventions had been haphazardly shoved into a pile. Her golden eyes widened as she rushed over, dropping to her knees in horror. "No… no, no, no!" she cried, picking up one of her gadgets. It was bent and cracked, its delicate circuitry exposed. "Why?! Why would they do this?! They weren't even moving—they weren't hurting anyone!"

Izuku moved to her side, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Mei… it's going to be okay. We'll fix them."

Mei turned to him, her lip trembling. "They smashed my reconfigurable drone! Look at it—it's in pieces! And my multi-lens scope is crushed!" She pointed at a large indentation on one of the gadgets. "Is that a bunny footprint?!"

Izuku sighed, running a hand through his hair as he looked around. His own frustration grew as his eyes landed on the destroyed TV. He muttered under his breath, "That was brand new…"

Taking a deep breath, he stood up and walked to his room. Mei, still mourning her inventions, didn't notice as he rummaged through his closet. He emerged a moment later holding a large cardboard box and a marker. Setting the box on the counter, he carefully wrote in bold letters: PLEASE ADOPT ME.

Mei glanced over, confused. "What are you doing?"

"Solving the problem," Izuku replied simply, grabbing a blanket. He walked over to Rumi, carefully scooping her up bridal style. Despite the chaos she had caused, her face looked peaceful in her sleep. Izuku shook his head, muttering, "You're lucky you're cute."

He carried her outside and gently placed her in the box, tucking the blanket around her like a makeshift nest. Standing back, he admired his handiwork before pulling out his phone. With a smirk, he snapped a picture of Rumi curled up in the box, her ears twitching slightly in her sleep.

Walking back inside, he showed the picture to Mei. "Problem solved."

Mei snorted, though her frustration was still evident. "You're impossible."

Toga stirred on the beanbag chair, blinking groggily as she noticed Izuku and Mei. She immediately jumped up, throwing her arms around them in a tight hug. "You're back!" she exclaimed, her voice still heavy with sleep.

Izuku awkwardly patted her on the back. "Yeah, we're back. Toga… what happened here?"

Toga glanced around, her golden eyes widening slightly as if noticing the destruction for the first time. "Oh, um… yeah, about that… It got a little out of hand last night."

Izuku raised an eyebrow. "A little?"

Toga stepped back, wringing her hands. "Where's Rumi?"

He smirked, pulling out his phone again and showing her the picture. "Not my problem anymore."

Toga stared at the screen, her expression a mix of guilt and amusement. "Izuku! That's mean. She's not that bad… she just… does dumb things sometimes."

Izuku gestured at the wreckage around them. "This isn't 'sometimes,' Toga. Look at this place! The TV's broken, the furniture's trashed, and Mei's inventions—"

"She stomped on one of my prototypes!" Mei interjected angrily, holding up a gadget with a clear indentation of a rabbit's foot. "She's like a wrecking ball with ears!"

Toga winced, glancing at the shattered coffee table. "Okay, yeah… maybe it got a little crazy."

Mei tried turning on one of her less-damaged devices, hoping to salvage it, but the machine sparked and let out a loud pop before exploding in a puff of smoke. She let out a frustrated cry, dropping it on the workbench.

The loud sound jolted Rumi awake outside. She blinked groggily, sitting up in the box and looking around in confusion. "What the hell…? Why am I outside? And what's with the box?" She squinted at the words written on the side. "Please… adopt me? Seriously?"

She stumbled to her feet, dragging the blanket with her as she shuffled back inside. "Oi! What's going on?"

Izuku and Mei both turned to glare at her. "You're what's going on," Izuku said, crossing his arms.

Rumi looked around at the chaos, her ears twitching as she processed the damage. "Oh… uh, yeah. That doesn't look good."

Mei threw her hands up, her golden eyes blazing with anger. "Doesn't look good? Rumi, you destroyed my inventions! Do you even know how much time I spent on those? How many sleepless nights I've poured into making them perfect—all for them to be smashed in one night! It's all gone!"

Rumi's ears drooped, and she shifted uncomfortably, avoiding Mei's glare. "I… I get it. I messed up."

"I want you out of here!" Mei shouted, pointing toward the door. "Pack up your stuff and leave!"

Toga, standing to the side, frowned and stepped forward. "Hey, hold on, Mei. Let's not be too hasty. I was here too, okay? I could've stopped it, but I didn't. This isn't completely on her. Things just… got out of hand."

Izuku raised a hand, his voice calm but sharp. "Enough. I want to hear what happened." He turned his gaze to Rumi, his green eyes piercing. "Tell me everything."

Rumi shuffled her feet, avoiding his gaze. Her voice was small and unsteady. "We… we were having a party. I spiked the punch so everyone could have a good time. I didn't think it'd get out of hand, but it did. Things got wild, and…" She looked around at the destroyed room. "We trashed your stuff. I'm sorry, okay? I didn't mean for this to happen."

Izuku's expression hardened. "Sorry isn't enough. Pack your things—you're out."

Rumi's head shot up, her eyes wide with fear. "Wait! Where am I supposed to go? I know I messed up, but—"

Izuku's voice cut through her stammering like a knife. "Do you even understand what you've done? Do you know how much time Mei puts into her inventions? How many sleepless nights she spends working on them? You've destroyed months of her work in a single night."

Rumi's guilt deepened, and her ears flattened against her head. "I get it, okay? I just… I just wanted to have some fun with my friends. It got out of hand…"

"'Out of hand'?" Izuku repeated, his voice rising slightly. "That's all you have to say? You destroyed her inventions, broke the TV, trashed the fridge, and left this entire place looking like a hurricane hit it—and you think it's fine because it was just 'out of hand'? This is my home, Rumi. My home! You barged in here without even asking, and the only reason we let you stay is because we were trying to be nice."

"I know I messed up!" Rumi said, her voice trembling. "But where am I supposed to go?"

"Is that all you can think about?" Izuku snapped, stepping closer. "Yourself? You're not even on your knees begging Mei for forgiveness. You're selfish, Rumi. A selfish bunny."

Rumi stumbled back, her red eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I… I'm not selfish! I'm sorry—I really am! Please, don't kick me out. I don't want to go back out there!"

Her body began to shake, her voice breaking. "I don't want to be alone again. I just… I just wanted to feel like I belonged somewhere."

The room fell silent. Toga looked at the floor, guilt written all over her face. "Izuku… maybe you should stop. This is getting too far."

Izuku turned to her, his voice firm. "Did you spike the punch? Did you want to get drunk and trash the place?"

Toga shook her head. "No… I just wanted to spend time with friends."

"Then it's not your fault," Izuku said, his tone softening slightly. "It's her fault. And I can't just let this slide. If this happens once, it'll happen again."

Mei stepped forward, her anger still burning. "He's right. This isn't just about the party—it's about respecting what we've built here. Months of work, gone."

Rumi's shoulders slumped. She looked down, her voice barely audible. "Fine. I'll leave. I'll go back to my old place."

She turned and began stuffing her clothes into a duffel bag, her movements hurried and clumsy. Her hands trembled as she zipped it shut.

Izuku sighed, picking up one of her suitcases and filling it with the rest of her belongings. "I'll follow you to make sure you get there safely. Once you're there, I don't want to see you back here again."

Rumi nodded wordlessly, her ears drooping even lower. She picked up her duffel bag and walked toward the door, her steps slow and heavy. Izuku followed her, his expression unreadable.

As the door closed behind them, Toga and Mei stood in the silent aftermath. Mei let out a shaky breath, running a hand through her messy hair. "Do you think we were too harsh?" Toga asked quietly.

Mei's lips pressed into a thin line. "Maybe… but she had to learn. This wasn't just a little mistake. It was too much."

The slums

Izuku and Rumi made their way through the slums in silence, the air heavy with unspoken tension. The neighborhood was rough, to say the least. The buildings were crumbling, their walls streaked with grime and graffiti. Most appeared to be out of code, with jagged shards of broken windows and haphazard patches of plywood barely keeping the elements out. The people milling around the street corners looked just as dangerous as the setting—hardened faces, eyes that lingered too long, and movements that screamed of desperation.

As they passed a group of men loitering by a stoop, one of them whistled, calling out, "Hey bunny girl, how about a little show for us, huh?"

Before Rumi could even process the comment, Izuku's presence shifted. His Overwhelming Presence skill activated, and a palpable wave of intimidation rippled through the air. The men froze, their bravado replaced by fear as they staggered back, muttering curses under their breath before scattering like rats.

Izuku didn't say a word, his expression cold and unreadable. Rumi glanced at him but chose not to comment, her ears twitching slightly as they continued walking.

They eventually arrived at her apartment building. The exterior was as decrepit as the neighborhood—chipped paint, rusted stairwells, and a barely functional door that hung crookedly on its hinges. Rumi pushed it open with a grunt, revealing a dim, musty hallway lit by a single flickering bulb. The floor creaked under their steps, and the faint smell of mold and dampness clung to the air.

"This is it," Rumi said flatly as she led him to her apartment on the first floor. She unlocked the door, which swung open to reveal a tiny, squalid space. The windows were cracked, letting in a cold draft. The wallpaper peeled in long strips, revealing water-stained walls beneath. A bare lightbulb dangled from the ceiling, casting a harsh, yellowish glow over the room.

Rumi grimaced as she stepped inside, her ears drooping slightly. "Goddamn junkies," she muttered, spotting two used needles on the floor near the corner. "They must've broken in again."

Izuku followed her in, his eyes scanning the room with a mix of disbelief and disgust. Rats scurried across the floor, disappearing into the shadows. Her mattress, shoved into the corner, was stained and sagging. Rumi tossed her bag onto it and flopped down with a heavy sigh.

"Home sweet home," she said bitterly, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Izuku crossed his arms, standing silently for a moment before finally speaking. "Why?"

Rumi sat up slightly, frowning. "Why what?"

He gestured around the room. "Why did you throw away the opportunity you had with us? For what? A night of fun that ended up trashing our place and bringing you back here?"

Rumi looked down, her ears drooping further. "You don't need to rub it in," she muttered, trying to sound tough, but her voice wavered.

Izuku's tone softened, though it was still firm. "I'm not trying to rub it in. I'm trying to understand. You're angry—I get that. But you handle your problems in destructive ways. Look around you, Rumi. This isn't just bad luck. It's a pattern."

She looked up at him, her red eyes narrowing slightly. "Why are you telling me this?" she asked, her voice defensive but tinged with vulnerability.

Izuku gestured toward the rats skittering across the floor. "Because… you deserve better than this. But if you don't get a handle on your emotions—on your impulsiveness—you're never going to get out of it."

Rumi scoffed, but her voice cracked. "It's too late for that," she said quietly. "I messed up, and now I'm back here. I deserve it."

She looked down at her hands, her voice trembling. "I destroy everything. It's all I'm good at—hurting things, breaking things, making people hate me. That's why I only have two friends. One's too nice to hate anyone, and the other…" She let out a bitter laugh. "The other only tolerates me because I can kick her ass."

Izuku didn't interrupt as she continued, her voice rising with self-loathing. "I thought I was making progress. I really did. But it's the same thing every time. I crash. I burn. Over and over and over. And I don't know how to stop it."

Her shoulders began to shake as tears streamed down her face. She wiped at them furiously, her voice breaking. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I don't want to be back here, but I deserve it. For what I did. For what I always do."

Before Izuku could react, Rumi lunged forward, wrapping her arms around him in a desperate hug. She buried her face in his chest, her body trembling. "Thank you," she whispered through her sobs. "For the warm meals. For the warm nights. For everything. I'm sorry."

Izuku stood still for a moment, then hesitantly placed a hand on her back, patting it awkwardly. "Rumi…"

She pulled back quickly, wiping her face and sniffling as she turned away. "I'll be fine," she said, her voice unsteady. "I deserve this. Just… thank you."

She grabbed her duffel bag and began unpacking, moving mechanically as though trying to distract herself from her own emotions. Izuku stood there for a moment longer, watching her before turning and leaving the apartment.

Izuku stood with his back against the door, his arms crossed tightly as he tried to think. His mind was racing, torn between frustration and guilt. Rumi's apartment was barely livable, and the emotional state she was in didn't make it any better. She had nowhere else to go, no one else to turn to. But bringing her back to the warehouse? Mei would explode.

"Dammit," he muttered under his breath, running a hand through his hair. "What the hell am I supposed to do?"

He replayed the scene in his head: her tears, her broken voice, the way she had clung to him, apologizing over and over. As much as she'd messed up, she didn't deserve this. Letting out a frustrated sigh, he pushed the door open and stepped back into the apartment.

The smell hit him first—a mix of mildew, old fabric, and something faintly metallic. He tried to ignore it, making his way toward the couch. He hesitated for a moment, then sat down cautiously, only for the cushion to shift slightly. He looked down in horror as several cockroaches scurried out from under the cushion, disappearing into the cracks of the floorboards.

"Yeah, no. Nope. That's it," he said, standing up quickly and brushing off his pants as though the bugs had touched him. "We're done here."

Rumi looked up from where she was sitting on the mattress, startled. "What do you mean, 'we're done'?" she asked, her voice still heavy with emotion.

Izuku didn't answer right away. Instead, he walked over to her and grabbed the duffel bag she'd just unpacked, stuffing her clothes back inside with quick, purposeful movements.

"What are you doing?" she asked, her ears twitching in confusion.

He zipped the bag shut, slung it over his shoulder, and turned to her. Without saying a word, he bent down, wrapped an arm around her waist, and lifted her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes.

"Hey!" Rumi shouted, squirming in his grip. "Put me down! I can walk, you know!"

"Yeah, I know," Izuku replied, his tone calm but firm. "But we need to get out of here fast, and this is faster."

"What the hell do you mean 'get out of here'? Where are we even going?" she demanded, though her protests were half-hearted.

"Home," Izuku said simply.

Rumi blinked, her struggles ceasing for a moment. "You're taking me back? But what about Mei? She's going to be pissed—"

"I'll deal with Mei," he interrupted. "Right now, I'm not leaving you in this dump."

Rumi was silent for a moment, then muttered, "It's not that bad…"

Izuku glanced at the cockroach skittering across the wall and snorted. "Sure. Not bad at all."

Activating his boots, he felt the surge of energy flow through his legs. He adjusted Rumi on his shoulder, ignoring her protests, and dashed toward the window. With a powerful leap, he launched them out into the open air, the wind rushing past them as he landed effortlessly on the next rooftop.

"Whoa! Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Rumi shouted, gripping his back tightly as they sped forward. "Are you insane?! You're going to kill us!"

Izuku smirked, picking up speed. "Relax. I've got this."

His Flurry of Blows skill activated, enhancing his movements as he darted across the rooftops, each leap carrying them farther and farther from the slums. The grimy streets and broken buildings blurred beneath them, replaced by cleaner, more familiar surroundings as they approached the edge of the neighborhood.

Despite herself, Rumi couldn't help but laugh. "You're ridiculous, you know that? You're carrying me like I'm some kind of damsel in distress."

"Pretty sure you are right now," Izuku quipped, glancing over his shoulder with a grin.

"Hey!" Rumi protested, though there was a hint of amusement in her voice. "I can fight you, you know. Put me down, and I'll show you just how much of a 'damsel' I am."

Izuku chuckled, shaking his head. "Not happening. We're almost there."

In record time, they reached the warehouse. Izuku landed gracefully just outside the door, setting Rumi down gently. She stumbled slightly but caught herself, glaring at him.

"You're insane," she said, crossing her arms. "Completely insane."

"Maybe," Izuku admitted, opening the door and motioning for her to step inside. "But at least you're not sleeping on a piss-stained mattress tonight."

Rumi hesitated, her gaze shifting from him to the warehouse. She sighed, her ears twitching. "You're going to regret this. Mei's going to kill us both."

"I'll handle Mei," Izuku said firmly. "Now, come on. Let's get you settled."

As they stepped inside, the faint tension in Rumi's shoulders seemed to ease. The warehouse, though still partially wrecked from the party, was a far cry from the squalor she'd left behind. She glanced at Izuku, her lips quirking into a small, hesitant smile.

"Thanks, broccoli boy," she said quietly.

"Don't mention it," Izuku replied, already bracing himself for the inevitable confrontation with Mei.

Izuku stood in front of Mei, his expression calm but determined. Mei, however, was anything but calm. Her golden eyes blazed with frustration as she jabbed a wrench in his direction.

"You brought her back?!" Mei said, her voice rising with incredulity. "Do you have any idea how much she destroyed? How much work she ruined? Izuku, I can't just let her stay here again. This isn't a halfway house for destructive bunny girls!"

"I know, Mei," Izuku replied, his tone steady. "But she has nowhere else to go. You didn't see the place she was living in. It was… it was unlivable. I couldn't just leave her there."

Mei crossed her arms, her grip on the wrench tightening. "And why is that my problem? She trashed my inventions, Izuku. She trashed your stuff too! What happens the next time she decides to have 'fun' and wrecks everything again?"

Izuku sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I'll take responsibility for her. If she messes up again, I'll handle it. But she's trying, Mei. She knows she messed up, and she feels terrible about it. She needs a second chance."

Mei frowned, her foot tapping against the floor as she considered his words. "A second chance, huh? And what about me? What about all the sleepless nights I've spent building those inventions, only for them to be destroyed because of her stupid party?"

"I'll help you rebuild them," Izuku said without hesitation. "Every spare moment I have, I'll spend helping you. I'll cover the cost of materials, too."

Mei raised an eyebrow. "You're serious about this, aren't you?"

"Dead serious," Izuku replied, meeting her gaze. "Just… please, let her stay."

Mei let out a long sigh, lowering the wrench. "Fine. She can stay. But you…" She pointed the wrench at him. "You're sleeping on the couch tonight."

Izuku blinked. "Wait, what? Why?"

"Because I'm still mad, and this is how I'm punishing you," Mei said with a smirk. "Enjoy the couch, hero."

Hours later

A few hours later, Izuku lay sprawled on the couch in the warehouse, the remnants of the chaotic day swirling in his mind. He couldn't sleep—not with everything that had happened and the list of repairs and replacements that would drain his resources. He sighed, staring at the dim ceiling, his thoughts interrupted by the faint creak of footsteps approaching.

Suddenly, a weight pressed down on him. His eyes opened to find Rumi perched on top of him, her crimson eyes locking with his. Her ears twitched nervously, and her face was a deep shade of red. This wasn't the confident, brash bunny girl he knew—she looked almost vulnerable, her usual swagger replaced with hesitation.

"Rumi?" he asked, his voice low and groggy. "What are you doing?"

She bit her lip, glancing away for a moment before leaning closer, her chest brushing lightly against his. "I just… I wanted to say thank you," she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper. Her hands gripped the edges of her shirt, and she tugged it down slightly, exposing a sliver of her collarbone and the top of her chest. Her cheeks burned brighter as she avoided his gaze. "If you… if you want, we could…"

Izuku blinked, processing her words. Then a grin spread across his face—not the kind she was expecting. It was playful, mischievous, and slightly perverted. "You mean… I could do whatever I want?" he teased, raising an eyebrow.

Rumi's face turned an impossible shade of red, her ears twitching furiously. "J-just for tonight!" she stammered, clearly flustered. "You saved me, and I just… I just wanted to…"

Before she could finish, he reached up and gently cupped her chin, tilting her face toward his. Her breath hitched, and her eyes widened as he pulled her closer. "Close your eyes," he murmured.

She hesitated, her heart pounding in her chest, but eventually obeyed, squeezing her eyes shut. The anticipation built as she felt his warm breath near her face. Her lips parted slightly, waiting.

And then—flick. His finger snapped against her forehead, sending a sharp but harmless sting across her skin.

Her eyes shot open, and she scowled, rubbing her forehead. "What the hell, you jerk?!"

Izuku chuckled, his grin widening. "Go to sleep, perverted bunny."

Rumi glared at him, shaking his shoulders in frustration. "I was giving you an opportunity—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Do you have any idea how hard that was for me? I'd never do something like this again!"

Izuku sighed, flipping their positions in one swift motion. Before she could react, he pinned her to the couch, leaning over her with a serious expression. She gasped, her heart racing as his green eyes bored into hers.

"I didn't save you to sleep with you," he said, his voice steady but firm. "I saved you because you needed help—because I saw someone who was hurt and angry and didn't know how to move forward. I'm not going to take advantage of you, Rumi. And if I ever tried, I'd hope you'd have the brains to punch me in the face."

Her expression softened, her ears lowering slightly as his words sank in.

"You don't owe me anything," he continued, his tone lightening. "Well, except for all the money you cost me. That's coming out of your paycheck, by the way. I'll bill you tomorrow."

Her lips twitched, the hint of a smile breaking through her flustered expression. "You're an ass."

"Maybe," he said with a grin, flopping back onto the couch beside her. "But you're stuck with me for now. So let's get some sleep."

Rumi's face was still bright red as she lay next to him, her mind racing. She had fully expected to do something stupid—something she'd regret—but he'd stopped her, once again proving why she respected him. She grabbed one of the couch pillows, clutching it tightly before kicking her feet in frustration.

Unfortunately, her kicking was less than coordinated, and her legs kept bumping into him. "Okay, that's it," Izuku said, sitting up and throwing his hands in the air. "I'm done. I'm just going to work. I clearly can't sleep tonight."

Rumi sat up quickly, guilt flashing across her face. "Wait—"

Before she could finish, Izuku leaned down, cupping her chin again. His expression softened as he spoke. "You need rest, Rumi. Just sleep. Okay?"

Izuku's boots echoed softly against the floor as he made his way to the door. Rumi sat up slightly, her ears twitching as she watched him leave. "Where are you going?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I'm just gonna do some jobs real quick," he said without looking back. "I'll be back later."

She wanted to protest, to ask if she could follow him, but the weight of the previous night held her back. Instead, she nodded and sank back into the couch, watching him disappear into the night. She lay there for a long time, her thoughts racing until exhaustion finally claimed her.

The next morning

the warehouse was unusually quiet. Mei, Toga, and Rumi sat around the breakfast table in awkward silence, their plates filled with toast and eggs. The tension was palpable—Mei's anger at the destruction of her inventions still simmered, but it was mixed with a growing worry for Izuku, who had yet to return.

Mei poked at her eggs with her fork, glancing at the door. She wanted to ask if anyone had heard from him, but she held back, not wanting to appear concerned. Instead, she pressed the button on the remote to turn on the TV, only to remember it was broken.

"Oh, right," Mei said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "The TV's broken. I wonder how that happened."

Toga winced, glancing at Rumi, who was staring intently at her plate. "Mei, we get it, okay? The TV's broken. No need to rub it in."

Mei huffed, crossing her arms. "I'm just saying. It's not like anyone here's taking responsibility."

Before the argument could escalate, a knock at the door drew their attention. Rumi stood up quickly, eager to escape the tension. "I'll get it," she said, making her way to the door.

When she opened it, she froze. Standing there, smiling politely, was none other than Principal Nezu, the small, mouse-like creature who was the head of UA High. His pristine white fur and neatly pressed suit gave him an almost regal air, despite his diminutive stature.

"Ah, Miss Usagiyama," Nezu said with a cheerful tone. "What a pleasant surprise to see you here. I wasn't expecting you to be part of this household."

Rumi rubbed the back of her head awkwardly. "Uh… yeah. Good to see you too, Principal Nezu. What brings you here?"

Nezu's beady eyes sparkled as he stepped inside. "I'm here on official business. You see, I have two very promising students to interview."

Mei stepped forward, her curiosity piqued. "Who's this guy?" she asked, pointing at the unusual creature.

Nezu smiled warmly. "I am Principal Nezu, head of UA High. And you must be Mei Hatsume! I've heard wonderful things about your inventions."

Mei's face lit up, her anger momentarily forgotten. "Really? That's amazing! What are you doing here?"

"Well," Nezu began, clasping his small hands together, "I'm here to interview you and your broccoli-haired friend for potential enrollment as recommended students."

At that moment, the door behind them opened, and Izuku stumbled in. His hair was disheveled, and his clothes were slightly torn from his dungeon runs. Without saying a word, he flopped face-first into the beanbag chair.

"Can I sleep now?" he mumbled into the fabric.

Nezu's cheerful voice cut through the haze. "I certainly hope you don't sleep yet, Mr. Midoriya!"

Izuku shot up, blinking blearily. "What? Who—" He stopped mid-sentence, his eyes widening as he took in the sight of Nezu. "Wait, you're—"

"Principal Nezu," the mouse-like creature said, bowing slightly. "It's a pleasure to meet you. Now, let's get to business, shall we?"

Izuku rubbed his eyes, trying to focus. "Business? What business?"

Nezu smiled. "You've both been recommended for enrollment at UA High, thanks to a very glowing recommendation from one of my most trusted colleagues."

Mei's jaw dropped. "Wait, you're serious?!"

"Absolutely," Nezu replied. "However, there's one decision that must be made. Miss Hatsume, you'll naturally be joining our support course, but Mr. Midoriya, you seem to be undecided."

Izuku blinked, the weight of the question pulling him out of his exhaustion. "Undecided?"

"Yes," Nezu continued. "You have the option of joining the hero course, the support course, or… if you're feeling particularly ambitious, both."

Mei gasped. "Wait, both? Is that even possible?"

Nezu nodded. "It's difficult, but our curriculum is flexible enough to allow it. You would need to balance the schedules of both the hero and support courses, often working with both Class 1-A and Class 1-B depending on your availability."

Izuku scratched the back of his head, thinking hard. "And we only get one recommendation, right? I can only use it for one course?"

"Correct," Nezu said, nodding. "Your recommendation guarantees you a spot in the course of your choice. The other would require you to pass the entrance exam."

Izuku glanced at Mei, who was staring at him expectantly, her pink eyes sparkling with hope. He smiled softly, his decision clear. "I'll use my recommendation for the support course."

Mei's eyes widened. "Wait, really?"

He nodded. "Yeah. That way, I can be with someone I… care about. Besides," he added with a grin, "taking the hero exam shouldn't be a problem for me."

Nezu clapped his hands together. "A wonderful decision, Mr. Midoriya. It shows great character to prioritize the people you care about. I look forward to seeing how you balance both paths."

Mei beamed, punching Izuku lightly on the shoulder. "You better not slack off in the lab! If we're gonna be in the same course, you're helping me build stuff."

"Wouldn't dream of it," Izuku replied with a chuckle.

Principal Nezu's ears twitched, his expression warm as he clasped his hands together. "Fantastic! I'm so glad to have both of you joining UA. Your talents and potential are truly remarkable."

He paced a few steps, glancing back at the pair. "We'll be inviting you both to a tour in the coming weeks. It will give you a chance to familiarize yourselves with the campus, meet the staff, and perhaps even get a sneak peek at the workshops for the support course."

Mei's eyes sparkled with excitement, and she practically vibrated in place. "A tour? Workshops? Oh my gosh, that's amazing! Do we get to see all the tools? The machines? The lab spaces? Oh, oh, do you have a plasma forge?!"

Nezu chuckled, raising a paw. "Patience, Miss Hatsume. All will be revealed in time. But I must say, I have high hopes for both of you. You're bright, dedicated, and brimming with potential. I hope you do well in your studies and make the most of this opportunity."

He turned to leave but paused at the doorway. "Oh, and Miss Usagiyama."

Rumi, who had been leaning against the wall with her arms crossed, perked up. "Yeah?"

Nezu's sharp eyes glinted as he spoke, his tone both stern and polite. "Please try to stay out of trouble. I understand you have certain… habits, as a self-proclaimed 'battle junkie.' While passion for combat can be a strength, it must be tempered with discipline. Remember, as a UA student, the weight of the school's reputation rests on your shoulders. Attacking people unprovoked—or even looking for fights—is not the behavior we expect."

Rumi's ears twitched, and she grinned sheepishly. "Oh, yeah, I'd never attack someone out of nowhere. Not my style."

Nezu raised an eyebrow. "Really? Because I heard some rather troubling rumors involving a certain Yakuza boy. Something about seeking him out, or perhaps starting an altercation."

Rumi stiffened slightly, her grin faltering. "Rumors. Just rumors," she said quickly, waving a hand. "I'd never do something like that."

"Good," Nezu replied, his tone calm but pointed. "As a reminder, you are authorized to act as a hero only during approved patrols. Vigilantism, while noble in spirit, is strictly frowned upon."

Rumi scratched the back of her head, muttering under her breath. "Got it. No vigilante stuff."

"Excellent," Nezu said, his smile returning. "Well, I must be going. Take care, and I hope to see you both soon. Remember: go beyond, Plus Ultra!"

With that, the small principal turned and walked out, his steps light and purposeful.

As soon as the door closed, Mei turned to Izuku, her pink eyes shining with joy. "We did it!" she shouted, throwing her arms around him in a tight hug. "We're going to UA! We're going to be inventors together!"

Izuku staggered slightly under the force of her enthusiasm but laughed, returning the hug. "Yeah, we did it."

Mei pulled back slightly, her grin widening as she started bouncing on her toes. "No, seriously—this is huge! UA is the best of the best! The tools, the resources, the opportunities! Oh my gosh, I can't wait to get started. I've got so many ideas already, and I can build them all!"

She froze mid-bounce, her face flushing. "I mean… we can build them. Not just me. It's a team thing, right?"

Izuku chuckled, ruffling her hair. "Of course it's a team thing. We're in this together."

Mei's excitement bubbled over again, and she resumed her happy bouncing. "We're going to be the best! Just wait! The whole world's going to know about Hatsume and Midoriya—the ultimate inventor duo!"

Rumi, who had been watching from the sidelines, smirked. "You two are so cheesy, it's painful."

"Jealous, Usagiyama?" Mei teased, sticking her tongue out. "I'll build you a gadget to keep up with us—maybe something to fix that ego of yours."

"Ha! As if I'd need your help," Rumi shot back, crossing her arms but unable to hide the small smile tugging at her lips.

Izuku shook his head, grinning. "Alright, alright. Let's not start another fight. We've got a lot to prepare for, and I still need to recover from my dungeon run."

Mei gasped, her hands flying to her hips. "You didn't tell me about the loot! What'd you get? Any rare materials? Blueprints? Come on, spill!"

Izuku laughed, holding up his hands defensively. "I'll tell you everything later, I promise. Let's just take a breather first."

Toga grinned, leaning forward with an excited gleam in her golden eyes. "Congrats, you two! But don't think for a second that I'm falling behind. I'm going to make it into the hero course, just you wait."

Izuku and Mei exchanged smiles, though before either could respond, Rumi raised a hand, her brow furrowed in curiosity. "Wait a second. Dungeon run? What's a dungeon run?"

The room fell silent for a moment, an awkward tension settling over them. Mei froze mid-bounce, Izuku's grin stiffened, and Toga's tail swished nervously behind her. They exchanged glances before all three spoke at once.

"You know," Mei began, her voice slightly too loud.

"In a game!" Izuku finished quickly, nodding along.

"Yeah, yeah! It's a popular game we've been playing!" Toga chimed in, her tone overly enthusiastic.

Rumi raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it as she crossed her arms. "You all got weird real fast. What kind of game are we talking about here?"

"Oh, it's just a… uh… fantasy game!" Mei said, waving her hands dismissively. "You know, dungeons, treasure, monsters—it's all virtual. Super immersive."

Rumi squinted at them, her ears twitching. "Uh-huh. Sure."

Izuku clapped his hands together, his voice overly chipper. "Anyway! Let's not focus on that. How about we celebrate instead?"

Toga perked up, seizing the opportunity to change the subject. "Oh! What if we go out to eat? Like, really treat ourselves."

"Perfect idea!" Izuku said quickly, relieved by the diversion. He walked over to his bag, rummaging through it for a moment before pulling out two neatly folded outfits. "Before we go, though, I've got something for you two."

Toga gasped as he handed her the sundress. "For me? Oh my gosh, Izuku! This is adorable!" She held it up to her chest, twirling dramatically. "I'm going to look so cute in this!"

Rumi blinked as he handed her the second outfit, a sleek black ensemble with stylish accents. She held it up, her expression shifting between surprise and hesitation. "Are you sure? I mean… after everything, I—"

Before she could finish, Izuku gently placed a finger over her lips. "It's fine. Just enjoy it, okay? Besides, I know a place that has amazing carrot cake."

Rumi's ears twitched, and a smile slowly broke through her guarded expression. Her eyes glistened with emotion as she suddenly threw her arms around him, hugging him tightly. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice thick with tears. "Thank you for not abandoning me."

Izuku stiffened for a moment, startled by the sudden show of vulnerability. He felt the warmth of her tears against his neck, and he pulled back slightly, his green eyes meeting her crimson ones. He lifted a hand, brushing a finger under her eyes to wipe away the tears. "Don't cry, Rumi. I don't ever want to see you cry like that again. And besides…" He grinned, his tone turning playful. "I'm not doing this because I have a kind heart. I just really want to see you in that outfit."

Rumi chuckled, her cheeks turning pink as she wiped the remaining tears away. "You're such a dork."

"That's the spirit," Izuku said, stepping back with a grin. "Now go get changed."

Rumi nodded, her smile lingering as she headed toward the makeshift changing area. Toga followed, practically skipping as she carried her sundress. Once they were out of earshot, Toga nudged Rumi with her elbow, her eyes sparkling mischievously.

"So," Toga began, her tone dripping with curiosity, "have you fallen for the broccoli boy yet?"

Rumi's ears twitched as she turned her head sharply, her blush deepening. "What? No! Don't be ridiculous."

Toga smirked, crossing her arms. "Come on, you can tell me. He's nice, he's kind, he bought you an outfit, and he didn't even hesitate to take you back in after everything. That's gotta mean something, right?"

Rumi hesitated, her gaze dropping to the outfit in her hands. "I… I don't know how I feel about him right now. He's different, you know? I thought he was weak because he's so nice and soft-spoken. I thought he was a pushover."

"And now?" Toga pressed, her grin widening.

"Now…" Rumi sighed, her voice softening. "He's not weak. He's got guts. He stands up for what he believes in, even if it means kicking me out. And then… he still had a big enough heart to forgive me and help me when I needed it most. He doesn't ask for anything in return, either."

Toga leaned in closer, her eyes practically glowing with curiosity. "Sooo… maybe you do like him. Just a little?"

Rumi huffed, her blush deepening as she turned away. "Maybe. A little. I don't know. It's complicated."

Toga's grin turned sly. "Sounds like a yes to me."

Rumi groaned, pulling on the outfit and adjusting it carefully. "You're impossible."

"And you're smitten," Toga teased, spinning around in her sundress. "Come on, let's show him our new looks."

As they stepped out of the changing area, Izuku and Mei looked up, their reactions immediate.

Toga twirled dramatically, beaming. "Ta-da! What do you think?"

"You look amazing," Izuku said with a grin.

Rumi stood quietly for a moment, her new outfit hugging her form perfectly. She crossed her arms, her ears twitching nervously. "Well? How does it look?"

Izuku smiled, his green eyes lighting up. "You look great, Rumi. Really great."

Rumi's blush deepened, and she quickly turned away to hide her face. "Tch. Whatever. Let's just go eat already."

The morning air was crisp, and the sun cast a warm glow over the streets as the group set out, dressed to impress for their celebratory feast. Izuku walked at the front, his Yakuza-inspired outfit perfectly tailored, the dark fabric giving him a sharp, commanding presence. Mei followed beside him, exuding confidence in her sleek, "gun dealer" ensemble, complete with polished boots and a fur-lined coat that added an edge of extravagance. Toga practically skipped along in her white sundress adorned with vibrant red flowers, the outfit contrasting beautifully with her golden eyes and fox-like tail. Bringing up the rear was Rumi, her black leather jacket and choker giving her a rebellious, striking appearance. The snug leather pants hugged her curves perfectly, paired with sturdy black boots that clicked with each step.

They turned heads as they made their way down the street, their dynamic energy and bold styles impossible to ignore.

The group chatted as they walked, their voices light with excitement.

"This is going to be epic!" Mei exclaimed, practically bouncing on her heels. "A feast to celebrate our big step forward—UA, here we come!"

"Yeah, yeah," Rumi said with a smirk, her crimson eyes darting to Izuku. "We're all moving up in the world, even if some of us are still just my wife."

Izuku groaned, rolling his eyes. "Rumi, for the last time, stop calling me that."

Rumi sidled closer to him, her grin widening. "Bunny law," she teased, her tone lilting. "If you want me to stop, you gotta defeat me first."

"Defeat you?" he asked, his brow furrowing. "In what, exactly?"

Rumi leaned in slightly, her smirk turning mischievous. "Doesn't matter. Bunny law says if you can't beat me, I get to call you whatever I want." She paused, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "And if you do beat me… well, then you can do whatever you want."

Izuku's face turned scarlet, and Rumi, clearly enjoying his reaction, reached out to gently boop his nose. "Pervert," she said, her voice light and teasing.

She spun on her heel and walked ahead, her leather-clad hips swaying slightly. Izuku couldn't help but notice, his gaze lingering for just a second too long. He let out a small sigh. Yep. Worth every cent.

Mei, who had been walking beside him, glanced over with a curious expression. "What's worth every cent?"

Izuku snapped out of his thoughts, his face flushing slightly. "Uh, this feast!" he blurted. "You know, the food. And… everything. Yep."

Mei's lips curled into a knowing grin. "Uh-huh," she said, stepping closer. Before Izuku could react, she leaned in and kissed him softly on the lips. His eyes widened as she pulled back, a mischievous twinkle in her pink eyes.

"Pervert," she whispered, giving him a wink before turning and walking ahead. She swayed her hips slightly more than usual, glancing back over her shoulder with a smirk as she caught him looking.

"Mei!" Izuku exclaimed, his face redder than ever. He turned away, trying to compose himself, only for Toga to sidle up beside him.

"What are you looking at?" she asked, her voice feigning innocence but her golden eyes gleaming with curiosity.

"N-nothing!" Izuku stammered, holding up his hands defensively.

"Uh-huh," Toga said, her smirk growing. Before he could come up with a better excuse, she leaned in, grabbing his collar and pulling him into a quick kiss. When she pulled back, she chuckled softly. "Pervert," she teased, mimicking Mei's tone. Then she turned and walked ahead, her fox tail swishing playfully behind her.

Izuku groaned internally. Why me? he thought, trailing behind the group. He tried to focus on anything else but found his eyes wandering again. His mind raced with frustration, embarrassment, and, admittedly, a little appreciation.

As the girls walked ahead, chatting and laughing, Izuku shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. I need to survive this meal without dying of embarrassment, he thought to himself.

The restaurant was a cozy, bustling place with warm wooden accents and large windows that let in the golden morning sunlight. The smells of freshly baked bread, sizzling meats, and sweet pastries filled the air, setting the perfect stage for their celebratory feast.

They were seated at a round table near the center of the room, giving them a clear view of the kitchen's open counter, where chefs moved with practiced precision. The menu was extensive, offering everything from hearty breakfast platters to decadent desserts.

As they settled in, a waitress approached with a cheerful smile. "Good morning! Can I get you all started with something to drink?"

"Orange juice for me!" Mei chirped, practically bouncing in her seat.

"I'll take black coffee," Izuku said, glancing at the menu.

"Carrot juice," Rumi said, leaning back with a grin. "And keep it coming."

"Same for me!" Toga added. "But with a splash of apple if you've got it."

The waitress nodded, jotting down their orders before bustling off. The group dove into their menus, the air filled with lively chatter.

Mei leaned forward, practically pressing her menu against her face as she scanned it. "Oh my gosh, they have everything. Izuku, look! They've got breakfast burritos and waffles. What do I choose?"

"Why not both?" Izuku suggested with a chuckle. "This is a celebration, right?"

"Brilliant!" Mei said, slapping the menu triumphantly. "Both it is."

Rumi smirked, resting her chin on her hand as she glanced at Izuku. "What are you getting, wife?"

Izuku groaned, closing his menu with a sigh. "Rumi, seriously, can we not?"

"Bunny law," she teased, flicking one of her ears with her finger. "You know the rules."

"I'll find a way to beat you," Izuku muttered, shaking his head. "One of these days."

"Keep dreaming," Rumi shot back, her smirk widening.

Toga giggled, leaning her elbows on the table. "You two are like an old married couple. It's adorable."

Before Izuku could retort, the waitress returned with their drinks, efficiently placing each one in front of them. "Ready to order?" she asked.

The table quickly filled with plates as the group ordered enough food to feed a small army. Mei's plate was piled high with a breakfast burrito, waffles, and a mountain of hash browns. Toga opted for a stack of pancakes topped with whipped cream and strawberries. Rumi, true to form, had a plate of carrot cake as an appetizer alongside a hearty steak and eggs. Izuku settled for a classic combo of eggs, sausage, and toast.

As they dug in, the conversation flowed freely, accompanied by laughter and the clinking of silverware.

"This carrot cake is divine," Rumi said, savoring a bite. "Izuku, you've got good taste."

Izuku smiled, cutting into his sausage. "Glad you like it."

Rumi grinned mischievously. "You'd better hope I don't start calling you my chef next."

"Don't even start," he said, his face already turning pink.

Toga leaned over, stealing a bite from Izuku's plate. "Mmm, not bad," she said, licking her fork. "You gonna finish that?"

"Apparently not," Izuku said dryly, earning a laugh from everyone at the table.

Mei was too busy sketching on a napkin to notice the teasing. "Guys, I just had a brilliant idea for a multi-tool that works with our dungeon runs—uh, I mean, game strategy," she said, catching herself. "I'll build it once we get back."

Rumi raised an eyebrow. "Still don't believe that dungeon stuff is a game, by the way."

The group fell into an awkward silence for a moment before Toga, mouth full of pancake, said, "Anyway! Who's ready for dessert?"

By the time they finished eating, the table was littered with empty plates, crumbs, and the remnants of an excellent meal. Mei leaned back with a contented sigh, patting her stomach. "That was amazing. Best breakfast ever."

"Agreed," Toga said, stretching her arms over her head. "We should do this more often."

Rumi smirked, wiping her mouth with a napkin. "Only if Izuku's paying. Thanks for the feast, wife."

"Stop calling me that," he muttered, standing up to stretch.

As they left the restaurant, the group's laughter echoed down the street, their bond stronger than ever. Though challenges lay ahead, for now, they allowed themselves to simply enjoy the moment.

Their day continued with lighthearted fun and planning for their UA journey, but the memory of that morning feast remained a reminder of how far they'd come—and how much further they had to go, together.

Author's Note:

So, after much consideration (and a lot of requests from you awesome readers), I've decided to officially have Rumi join the harem! That being said, she's not going to be an easy addition. True to her nature, she's got her own rules—Izuku still has to defeat her in battle before anything progresses, and honestly, she might just change her mind along the way. Let's face it, she's as unpredictable as she is strong.

With this development, we're officially upping the slots to four. That's it—just one more to go. The final girl will be revealed soon, and I'm super excited to see what you all think about how this is shaping up. This chapter really highlighted the dynamics between Izuku and the girls, and I'm having a blast writing these moments of chaos, growth, and hilarity.

As we move forward, things are going to get even more interesting. Izuku's going to have his hands full balancing two hero classes, while also navigating his relationships, dungeon runs (oops, I mean "game strategy"), and building his future in the support course. It's going to be a fun ride, and I hope you'll stick around for the journey!

Thank you so much for all your support and for making it to this point in the story. If you've enjoyed it so far, I'd love for you to leave a review—it really helps me and motivates me to keep going! We're almost done with the girl selection arc, and I promise things are going to heat up soon in more ways than one.

Stay tuned, and as always, go beyond, PLUS ULTRA!