Izuku's footsteps were soft against the pavement as he patrolled the city streets, his senses on high alert. As a quirkless middle schooler with a secret double life as a vigilante, he had learned to navigate the darkness with caution. The night had an eerie stillness, broken only by the distant hum of traffic.
But as he rounded a corner, his senses prickled with an unexpected presence. A figure was slumped against the wall, surrounded by a group of thugs. Izuku's heart raced as he assessed the situation—someone was in danger.
Without hesitation, Izuku moved closer, his body tense with a mix of apprehension and determination. The dim light revealed a boy, slightly older than him, with distinctive half-white, half-red hair. His expression was strained, his body language indicating that he was backed into a corner.
"Hey, leave him alone!" Izuku's voice was stronger than he felt, but he couldn't stand by and watch someone be victimized.
The thugs turned their attention to him, and for a moment, there was a tense standoff. Izuku could feel his heart pounding in his chest, his adrenaline surging. He knew he was outmatched in terms of physical strength, but he was fueled by a deep sense of justice.
One of the thugs sneered, his voice mocking. "Look who wants to play hero. Get lost, kid."
Izuku's grip on his makeshift weapon tightened, his eyes narrowing. He had faced danger countless times before, but this situation felt different. He couldn't back down, not when someone else's safety was on the line.
In a burst of movement, the thugs lunged at him, their intent clear. Izuku's training kicked in as he dodged, weaved, and countered with swift strikes. His body moved with a fluidity born of experience, his determination lending him strength.
Despite the odds, Izuku managed to disarm the thugs one by one, his movements precise and calculated. He took a few blows himself, a price he was willing to pay to protect others. The clash of fists and the sound of grunts filled the air, a chaotic symphony of desperation and determination.
Finally, the last thug lay defeated on the ground, groaning in pain. Izuku's breath came in ragged gasps, his body aching from the effort. He turned to the boy he had saved, his voice sincere. "Are you okay?"
The boy pushed himself away from the wall, his expression a mixture of surprise and gratitude. "Yeah, thanks."
Izuku managed a tired smile, his own injuries momentarily forgotten. "I'm just glad I could help."
But as the adrenaline faded, Izuku's own pain resurfaced. The ache in his side intensified, a reminder of the blow he had taken during the fight. He stumbled slightly, his vision swimming.
The boy's concern was evident as he stepped closer. "Are you alright?"
Izuku's pride warred with his body's protests. "I'm... I'm fine. Just a scratch."
The boy's eyes narrowed, a hint of skepticism in his gaze. "You don't look fine."
Izuku's attempt at a chuckle was strained. "It's not as bad as it looks."
But his bravado was short-lived as he swayed on his feet, his vision darkening at the edges. The boy's voice sounded distant as he spoke, his words a blur.
The next thing Izuku knew, strong hands were supporting him, keeping him from collapsing. His head felt heavy, and he struggled to stay conscious.
"You're not fine," the boy's voice was firm, his expression resolute. "Let me help you."
And as the darkness closed in, Izuku felt a sense of gratitude. In his darkest moments, he had been the one saving others, but now, someone else was there to save him.
——-
As Izuku's vision began to blur and his consciousness wavered, he found himself leaning on the boy with the distinctive hair. His support was steady, and Izuku couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude mixed with his own delirium.
"Thank you," Izuku managed to mumble, his words slurring slightly.
The boy offered a small smile, his eyes softening with concern. "I should be the one thanking you. You saved me back there."
Izuku's lips curled into a tired grin, and he couldn't help but let out a weak laugh. "Guess we're even then."
His head felt heavy as he fumbled for his phone, his fingers shaky as he dialed Eraserhead's number. The phone rang a few times before the voice on the other end answered, his tone a mix of annoyance and concern.
"What is it, Midoriya?"
Izuku fought through the haze in his mind, his voice sounding more determined than he felt. "I... I took down some villains. You should send the cops to take them into custody."
Eraserhead's voice took on a sharper edge. "You idiot, did you get hurt again?"
Izuku's stubbornness flared, and he hung up before Eraserhead could scold him further. The phone slipped from his grasp, and he leaned more heavily on the boy beside him.
"I should... I should find somewhere to sit," Izuku mumbled, his words slurring together.
The boy nodded, his grip on Izuku firm as he guided him to a nearby bench. Izuku sank onto it with a sigh of relief, his eyes half-lidded as he looked at the boy.
"You should... call an ambulance," Izuku mumbled, his voice growing more delirious.
The boy's eyes widened in alarm. "An ambulance? I thought you said you were fine!"
Izuku chuckled weakly, his gaze hazy. "I am fine! It's just a stab wound... and some blood loss... it's fine, really."
The boy's face turned a shade redder, his gaze flitting between Izuku and the wound on his side. "You're... you're joking about a stab wound?"
Izuku's head lolled to the side as he met the boy's eyes, a playful glint in his own. "Hey, got to lighten the mood somehow, right?"
The boy's cheeks flushed deeper, a mix of horror and amusement in his expression. "You're... something else."
Izuku's laughter was interrupted by a sudden shift in his surroundings. Eraserhead appeared before them, his presence unexpected but comforting.
"What the hell do you think you're doing, Midoriya?" Eraserhead's voice was a mixture of frustration and relief.
Izuku managed a weak smile, his vision swimming. "Just... doing my job."
Eraserhead's gaze shifted to the boy beside Izuku, his expression stern. "And who are you?"
The boy straightened, his voice respectful. "I'm Shoto Todoroki. I was in trouble, and Midoriya helped me."
Eraserhead's gaze softened slightly as he turned his attention back to Izuku. "You're a mess, kid."
Izuku's head lolled back, his voice barely a whisper. "Been through worse."
Eraserhead sighed, his exhaustion evident. "Let's get you both sorted out."
As Eraserhead guided Todoroki away to handle the necessary police procedures, Izuku's consciousness began to fade. The events of the night caught up to him, and he allowed himself to surrender to the darkness, knowing that he was in capable hands.
——-————————
Eraserhead's focus shifted between Izuku and Todoroki as he led them to his car. Todoroki had been quiet, his expression a mix of gratitude and confusion. Izuku, on the other hand, was barely coherent, his body swaying with every step.
Once they were settled in the car, Eraserhead turned his attention to Izuku. "You're lucky I got to you in time. What were you thinking, taking on those thugs with an injury?"
Izuku's response was a tired mumble, his eyes heavy as he looked at Eraserhead. "Had to... help."
Eraserhead sighed, his gaze softening. "You have a funny way of showing it. You could've gotten yourself killed."
Izuku's lips twitched into a faint smile. "But I didn't."
Eraserhead's irritation gave way to a mix of exasperation and fondness. "You're a pain in the ass, Midoriya."
As he drove, Eraserhead's thoughts turned to the fact that he had become more involved in Izuku's life than he had anticipated. The boy's recklessness worried him, but he couldn't deny the determination and bravery that fueled his actions.
Once they arrived at the police station, Eraserhead escorted Todoroki inside to provide his statement and ensure that the criminals were taken into custody. The process was long and tedious, but Eraserhead's experience allowed him to navigate it efficiently.
As Todoroki recounted the events, his voice was steady and his demeanor composed. Eraserhead couldn't help but be impressed by the boy's composure, especially considering the circumstances.
Once everything was settled, Eraserhead and Todoroki made their way back to the car. The drive back to Eraserhead's place was mostly quiet, with Todoroki's curiosity getting the best of him.
"Is Midoriya always like this?" Todoroki's voice held a mix of amusement and bewilderment.
Eraserhead glanced at him, his expression dry. "Unfortunately, yes. He has a habit of charging into danger without thinking."
Todoroki's lips quirked into a small smile. "He saved me. I'm... grateful."
Eraserhead's gaze softened, his voice sincere. "He has a good heart, even if it's reckless. Just don't encourage his behavior."
Todoroki nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I'll keep that in mind."
When they arrived back at Eraserhead's apartment, Todoroki helped him support Izuku as they made their way inside. Eraserhead had treated his fair share of injuries, but there was something different about tending to Izuku. The boy's resilience and determination struck a chord in him.
After tending to Izuku's injuries as best he could, Eraserhead settled him into a makeshift bed on the couch. Todoroki stood nearby, his expression a mix of concern and uncertainty.
"Thank you for helping," Todoroki said, his voice quiet.
Eraserhead nodded, his gaze shifting to Izuku. "He's going to be fine. Just needs rest."
Todoroki's eyes lingered on Izuku before he turned to Eraserhead. "Why do you care so much?"
Eraserhead's gaze held a mixture of weariness and determination. "Because he's been through enough. No one else seems to care, so I do."
Todoroki's expression softened, and he nodded in understanding. "He's lucky to have you."
Eraserhead's lips quirked into a faint smile. "Sometimes I wonder who's luckier."
As the night settled around them, Eraserhead couldn't help but think about the unexpected turns life could take. Becoming Izuku's legal guardian hadn't been part of his plan, but it was a responsibility he was willing to take on—for better or for worse.
As Eraserhead led Todoroki away to the police station, his focus remained on ensuring that the criminals were dealt with appropriately. His steps were heavy with weariness, but his thoughts were still tethered to the boy he had left behind.
Meanwhile, back on the bench, Izuku's vision was growing dimmer, and his consciousness wavered dangerously. The pain from his stab wound was becoming harder to ignore, and his attempts to "walk it off" were proving more futile than ever.
Just as Izuku was slipping further into delirium, a voice broke through the haze. "Kid, you better not be passing out on me."
Izuku's eyes fluttered open, and he found himself staring up at a familiar mop of blond hair. Aizawa's stern expression was mixed with an undeniable hint of concern, and Izuku managed a weak smile.
"Hey, Eraserhead," Izuku greeted, his voice a mixture of fatigue and relief.
Aizawa crouched down beside him, his gaze assessing. "You're a mess, Midoriya."
Izuku chuckled weakly, though it was more of a grimace. "I've been worse."
Aizawa's stern expression softened slightly, but his exhaustion was still evident. "You've got a lot of explaining to do."
Izuku nodded, his head feeling heavier than it should. "I know... I just... didn't want them to get away."
Aizawa's sigh was audible, and he leaned against the bench as if he himself needed support. "You don't have to do it all alone, Midoriya."
Izuku's response was quiet, tinged with guilt. "I didn't want to burden you."
Aizawa's voice was exasperated but tempered with understanding. "You're not a burden. You have people who care about you."
Izuku's words were hesitant, almost shy. "Thanks."
Before Aizawa could respond, Izuku ended the call, leaving Aizawa with a mixture of frustration and concern. He couldn't shake off the feeling that he needed to be more present for the boy, even if it meant dealing with the consequences of his recklessness.
Later that evening, as Izuku returned home, the atmosphere was a mix of relief and worry. Aizawa's stern gaze met Izuku's tired one, and he pointedly gestured to the couch. "Sit."
Izuku complied, wincing as he moved. His stab wound had been left untreated for far too long, and it was beginning to take its toll. Aizawa's eyes narrowed as he took in Izuku's pale complexion and the telltale signs of an infection setting in.
Mic, sitting nearby, let out a worried noise as he caught sight of Izuku's condition. "Kid, you look like you've seen better days."
Izuku managed a weak grin, his voice a mixture of sheepishness and exhaustion. "Yeah, well... villain fight got a bit out of hand."
Shinso, who had been studying at the table, glanced up and raised an eyebrow. "Again?"
Izuku chuckled, though it was tinged with fatigue. "Yeah, again."
Aizawa's gaze hardened, his voice firm. "And what did I tell you about reckless behavior?"
Izuku's expression turned more serious, his voice earnest. "I know, Eraserhead, but I couldn't just stand by."
Aizawa's sigh was exasperated but tinged with resignation. "You're going to be the death of me, kid."
Mic's playful smile faded as he took in the sight of Izuku's injuries. "We need to get you cleaned up and treated."
Izuku nodded, his energy dwindling fast. As they guided him to the bathroom, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the makeshift family he had found himself a part of—people who cared about him even when he pushed the limits.
As the water ran and bandages were fetched, Mic's voice was gentle. "You know, kid, you don't have to save the world on your own."
Izuku's smile was tired but sincere. "I know... but sometimes I can't help it."
With a mixture of scolding and concern, Aizawa and Mic worked together to tend to Izuku's wounds. And as the night wore on, the makeshift family's bond grew stronger, a testament to the connections that had formed between them in the most unexpected of circumstances.
—-
After Eraserhead left with Todoroki to accompany him to the police station and ensure the situation was handled, he returned to where he had left Izuku. Concern etched his features when he found Izuku still slumped on the bench, his condition seemingly deteriorating.
Eraserhead's usually stern expression softened as he approached the injured boy. He crouched down beside him, his voice more gentle than usual. "Midoriya, you really did a number on yourself this time."
Izuku managed a weak smile, his voice strained. "It's just a scratch."
Eraserhead's sigh was laden with exasperation. "You and your reckless heroics."
Knowing that they couldn't stay there much longer, Eraserhead helped Izuku to his feet, his supportive stance uncharacteristic for the typically aloof pro hero. "Come on, kid. Let's get you home."
As they made their way back to where Eraserhead's car was parked, he couldn't help but feel a mixture of concern and irritation. He had seen Izuku injured countless times before, but tonight had been a close call. The fact that Izuku had risked his own life to save someone else weighed heavily on his mind.
Once they arrived home, Izuku's injuries were promptly tended to. Eraserhead was skilled in basic first aid, and while his treatment couldn't replace a proper medical evaluation, it was enough to stabilize Izuku's condition for the time being.
As Izuku lay on the couch, his body wrapped in bandages, Mic arrived home shortly after. His boisterous entrance was met with a more subdued atmosphere, and he immediately noticed the tense air in the room.
"Hey, Eraserhead, why the long faces?" Mic's voice was cheerful, but it faltered when he saw the state Izuku was in. "What happened?"
Eraserhead's gaze shifted to Izuku, his expression a mix of exasperation and concern. "Problem child decided to get himself hurt again."
Mic's expression shifted from surprise to worry, and he moved closer to Izuku. "Kid, you're a magnet for trouble."
Izuku's chuckle was weak, but it held a hint of his usual optimism. "It's not that bad."
As the evening progressed, Mic's presence brought a sense of warmth to the room. He made light conversation, regaling Izuku with his wild stories from his hero exploits. Shinso, who had been in his room working on school assignments, eventually joined them, his curious expression morphing into surprise when he saw Izuku's condition.
"You got yourself into quite the mess," Shinso remarked, a mixture of amusement and concern in his voice.
Izuku grinned tiredly, his tone light. "Just another day in the life of a vigilante."
While Mic and Shinso's presence provided a distraction from the severity of the situation, the underlying concern couldn't be ignored. Mic kept a watchful eye on Izuku, offering words of encouragement and lighthearted jokes.
The night eventually gave way to the comfort of the familiar surroundings, and as Izuku closed his eyes, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the makeshift family that had come together in unexpected ways. Despite the challenges they faced, they were united by a shared bond and a determination to protect what mattered most.
———
After Shota left with Todoroki to the police station, Eraserhead returned to where he had left Izuku. He found him still seated on the bench, looking more exhausted than ever. The vigilante's stubbornness hadn't surprised him, but he was growing increasingly concerned about the state of Izuku's injury.
Eraserhead let out a sigh and crouched down beside Izuku, his gaze assessing the wound. "You've really outdone yourself this time."
Izuku managed a sheepish grin, his voice tired but determined. "Just a scratch."
Eraserhead's stern expression softened slightly, his concern evident. "We need to get that wound treated properly."
Before Izuku could protest, Eraserhead's phone buzzed with a message. He glanced at the screen and let out an exasperated sigh. "That's your new family texting to ask where you are."
Izuku's eyes widened in surprise. He hadn't considered how worried they would be about him. "I'll... I'll let them know."
Eraserhead watched as Izuku typed out a quick message, his fingers slightly shaky from fatigue. The pro hero's sternness melted a bit as he observed the boy's determination.
Finally, Izuku sent the message and looked up at Eraserhead. "Can I go home now?"
Eraserhead's expression was a mixture of annoyance and resignation. "Fine. But if you so much as sneeze wrong, I'm dragging you to the hospital myself."
Izuku's weak chuckle was interrupted by a bout of coughing, his injuries taking their toll on him. Eraserhead helped him to his feet and offered a supportive arm to lean on.
As they made their way back to Eraserhead's apartment, Izuku couldn't help but feel a mixture of gratitude and relief. He had been so used to navigating his challenges alone, but now he had people who cared about him, people who would hold him accountable for his actions.
When Izuku walked through the door, he was met with concerned faces. Mic's eyes widened at the sight of Izuku's injury, and he hurried over. "What happened, kiddo?"
Izuku offered a weak smile, his voice a bit hoarse. "Just a little mishap."
Shinso's expression was a mix of worry and frustration. "You look like you've been through hell."
Izuku's gaze flickered between the two of them, his voice earnest. "I'm okay. Really."
Mic's voice was stern but caring. "You're not okay, kid. Let's get you cleaned up."
Izuku allowed himself to be guided to the bathroom, where Mic helped him clean and bandage the wound. The pro hero's gentleness surprised Izuku, a stark contrast to his usual energetic persona.
As the pain ebbed slightly under the effects of the first aid, Izuku couldn't help but feel a warmth in his chest. He had fought so hard to protect others, to be a hero, but now he was surrounded by people who were willing to protect him in return.
That evening, as Izuku settled into his makeshift bed, he pondered how he could shield his newfound family from the dangers he faced as a vigilante. He knew they cared about him deeply, and the last thing he wanted was to put them through unnecessary worry.
In the end, he resolved to be more cautious, to think twice before taking risks that could put him in danger. He knew that he couldn't entirely give up his vigilante duties, but he could take steps to minimize the risks and protect those who cared about him.
With that determination in mind, Izuku closed his eyes, his thoughts swirling as he drifted into a restless sleep. He had a new family, a mentor who cared, and a newfound resolve to navigate the challenges ahead with more caution and consideration.
————————
The following day, the aftermath of Izuku's impulsive actions began to take its toll. The adrenaline that had fueled him through the night had worn off, leaving behind aches, fatigue, and a gnawing pain from his still-untreated wound. He felt like he had been run over by a truck, his body protesting every movement.
When Izuku shuffled into the kitchen, the sight of Mic and Shinso preparing breakfast was a comforting one. Mic shot him a knowing look, his expression a mixture of fondness and concern. "Rough night?"
Izuku managed a weak smile, his voice a bit scratchy. "You could say that."
Shinso glanced at him, his voice tinged with amusement. "I can't believe you managed to get yourself stabbed."
Izuku's cheeks turned slightly pink, and he rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "It's not as bad as it looks."
Mic's tone was gentle but stern. "You sure kid? I cleaned the thing and it looked pretty bad to me."
Izuku's smile faltered, and he nodded in acknowledgment. He had always tried to downplay his injuries, but he knew that this time he had pushed his luck too far.
As they sat down to eat, the atmosphere was surprisingly light. Mic and Shinso bantered back and forth, and Izuku couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging that he had rarely experienced before.
After breakfast, Mic turned to Izuku, his voice serious. "You know, we care about you, right?"
Izuku met Mic's gaze, his own eyes earnest. "I know. And I'm sorry for worrying you."
Shinso's voice was softer than usual. "It's not just about worrying. We're here to support you."
Izuku's throat tightened, and he nodded, his gratitude evident. He had spent so long trying to navigate life on his own that having people who genuinely cared about him was still a new and somewhat overwhelming concept.
As the day went on, Izuku's fatigue grew, and he found himself succumbing to a dull headache. He retreated to his makeshift bed, resting against the pillows and closing his eyes. The events of the past few days weighed heavily on him, and he couldn't help but replay the night's events in his mind.
Eventually, Mic entered the room, carrying a glass of water and a small bottle of pain relievers. He handed them to Izuku, his tone gentle. "You need to take care of yourself, kid."
Izuku accepted the items with a grateful smile, his voice a bit hoarse. "Thanks."
Mic sat down beside him, his presence comforting. "You scared us last night, you know."
Izuku's gaze dropped to his hands, guilt gnawing at him. "I'm sorry."
Mic's hand came to rest on Izuku's shoulder, his voice kind. "Just promise us that you'll be more careful."
Izuku nodded, his determination resolute. "I will. I promise."
The room fell into a comfortable silence, and Izuku closed his eyes, allowing the pain relievers to ease his discomfort. He had a new family now, people who cared about him and were willing to stand by him, even when he made reckless decisions.
As he drifted into a light doze, Izuku couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The wounds he carried, both physical and emotional, were beginning to heal, and he was ready to face the challenges ahead with the support of those who believed in him.
——————-
As the day wore on, Izuku's worries about school began to creep back into his mind. He knew that going to school with his injuries and the exhaustion he was feeling wasn't the best idea, but he also didn't want to fall behind on his studies.
Sitting on his makeshift bed, he voiced his concerns to Mic. "I can't afford to miss school. I need to keep up."
Mic regarded him thoughtfully, his expression serious. "You know, kiddo, at this point, it might be best if you consider homeschooling."
Izuku's eyes widened in surprise. The idea hadn't crossed his mind before, but now that it was presented to him, he realized that it might be a practical solution.
He hesitated, considering the idea. Homeschooling would allow him to focus on his studies and recover properly without the added stress of attending a regular school. But then he thought of Bakugou, the worry that had been etched on his face the first time he had gone missing.
"No," Izuku said, his voice firm despite the fatigue that weighed on him. "I can't do that to him again."
Mic's gaze softened, his understanding evident. "I get it, kid. But you need to take care of yourself."
Izuku nodded, his determination clear. "I will. For now, I'll rest and see how things go."
Mic offered a reassuring smile, patting Izuku's shoulder gently. "That's the spirit."
Just as the conversation seemed to be winding down, the door opened, and Eraserhead stepped in. His gaze went straight to Izuku, his eyes assessing the boy's condition.
Izuku met his gaze, offering a tired smile. "Hey, Eraserhead."
Eraserhead's expression was a mixture of concern and exasperation. "How are you feeling?"
Izuku shrugged, a mixture of exhaustion and discomfort evident in his posture. "Better than yesterday."
Eraserhead's tone was stern but caring. "You need to learn to take better care of yourself."
Izuku's response was a mix of determination and exhaustion. "I'm trying."
Eraserhead's gaze softened, and he let out a sigh. "I know you are. Just don't push yourself too hard."
Izuku managed a nod, his eyes feeling heavy. He knew that he needed to rest and recover properly, but the guilt of his actions and the worry for those who cared about him weighed heavily on his mind.
Eraserhead's presence was a comfort, a reminder that he wasn't alone in this. As the pro hero turned to leave, he glanced back at Izuku. "I'll be keeping an eye on you, kid."
Izuku's lips quirked into a tired smile. "I wouldn't expect anything less."
With that, Eraserhead left the room, and Izuku was left to his thoughts. He knew that the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but he was determined to navigate it with the support of those who cared about him—his new family and the mentor who had taken him under his wing.
———————-
The day at school had been nothing short of a nightmare. The rumors that had circulated about Izuku's supposed training to get into UA had ignited Kacchan's rage to new levels. The bullying was relentless, and even those who had once been friendly had turned against him. Izuku's heart ached with every cruel word and painful kick, his body still reeling from the previous night's events.
When Bakugou's voice cut through the chaos, his words were like a dagger to Izuku's heart. "Why don't you just take a swan dive, Deku? No one would miss you."
The weight of those words hit Izuku with a force that was almost physical. He felt a cold numbness spread through him, his chest constricting painfully. This was it, the breaking point he had feared would come eventually. With tears stinging his eyes, he turned away from Bakugou's taunts and fled the school.
His steps were aimless as he walked through the city streets, the pain in his chest mirrored by the physical ache from his reopened wound. The world felt like it was closing in on him, suffocating him with its cruelty.
Izuku found himself at the cemetery where his parents were buried. The familiar gravestones provided a bittersweet comfort, a reminder of the love he had lost. He sank to his knees beside their resting place, his voice trembling as he spoke to the silent markers.
"Hey, Mom. Hey, Dad. It's been a while." His voice cracked, tears slipping down his cheeks. "I'm sorry. I tried my best, but... it's just too much. I don't know how to keep going."
His words hung in the air, a desperate plea to the void. Izuku's heart ached with a longing for the parents he had lost, for the guidance and comfort they could have offered.
With a shaky breath, Izuku wiped away his tears and pushed himself to his feet. There was no going back now.
"See you soon Mom. Love you"
———————
As he leaned against a wall, trying to catch his breath, he realized that he couldn't take it anymore. He couldn't keep enduring the pain, the mockery, the endless battle to prove himself. It felt like there was no escape, no way to find respite from the torment.
He pulled out his phone, his trembling fingers typing out a message to his friends and family. He didn't want them to worry, didn't want them to see him as a failure. He needed to make things right, to find a way to end the pain once and for all.
As he sat on the edge of the roof he texted his few friends and family. He was met by an onslaught of messages and calls but he tossed his phone to the side as he took of his shoes and leaned over the edge
Just as Izuku was on the brink of taking that fatal step, his heart pounding and his thoughts a tumultuous mess, a firm grip closed around his wrist, halting his descent into the abyss. His body tensed, his breath catching in his throat as he was pulled back from the edge of the roof.
His eyes widened in shock as his feet landed back on solid ground, his legs shaky and his heart racing. He turned to face the person who had stopped him, his vision blurred by tears and the raw turmoil inside him.
Standing before him was a tall figure with a shock of white hair and a gaze that held a mix of concern and determination. Todoroki.
For a moment, they simply stared at each other, neither saying a word. Izuku's emotions swirled within him, a chaotic mix of relief, embarrassment, and gratitude. He had never expected anyone to be there, to intervene in such a crucial moment.
Todoroki's voice was calm, his tone gentle. "Hey, are you okay?"
Izuku's voice trembled as he struggled to find the words. "I... I don't know."
Todoroki's grip on his wrist was gentle but firm, a silent reassurance that he wasn't alone. "You don't have to go through this by yourself."
The weight of those words struck Izuku like a revelation. Here was someone who had stepped in when he needed it the most, who had reached out in a moment of darkness. It was a reminder that there were people who cared, even if he had trouble seeing it.
As Izuku's tears fell freely, Todoroki's presence felt like a lifeline, grounding him in the midst of his turmoil. He wasn't alone, and maybe, just maybe, there was a glimmer of hope shining through the darkness.
Todoroki's hand left his wrist and moved to gently rest on Izuku's shoulder. "Let's get you down from here."
Nodding weakly, Izuku allowed Todoroki to guide him back to safety, their footsteps echoing in the quiet of the rooftop. It was a small step, but in that moment, it felt monumental.
As they descended the stairs, Todoroki spoke again, his voice soft but resolute. "You know, you don't have to face everything on your own. There are people who care about you."
Izuku's throat tightened, the truth of those words hitting him with a force he hadn't expected. He had been so caught up in his own struggles that he had overlooked the support that was right in front of him.
As they reached the ground floor, Izuku turned to Todoroki, his gaze earnest. "Thank you."
Todoroki's lips quirked into a small smile, his expression genuine. "Anytime."
With those simple words, Izuku felt a weight lift from his shoulders, replaced by a newfound connection and a glimmer of hope. He wasn't alone in this battle, and maybe, with the help of those who cared, he could find a way to overcome the darkness that had threatened to consume him.
——
Izuku sat on a park bench, his eyes fixed on the screen of his phone. He had sent out his last goodbye to his closest friends and family, a desperate attempt to shield them from the pain he had been carrying. He knew it wasn't the right solution, but in that moment of darkness, it had felt like his only option.
As he replayed the messages he had received, his heart ached with a mixture of regret and relief. He wished he could take back those words, but he also knew that he was lucky to have people who cared enough to respond.
Just then, a familiar voice called out his name. "Izuku!"
Startled, Izuku looked up, his gaze meeting the eyes of a friend he hadn't expected to see. It was Mina Ashido, her vibrant presence contrasting with the heaviness that had weighed on him. She rushed toward him, her expression a mix of worry and relief.
"Izuku, are you okay?" Mina's voice was laced with concern as she reached his side.
Izuku's heart skipped a beat at the sight of her, at the realization that someone had actually come searching for him. He felt a lump form in his throat, his emotions threatening to spill over.
"I'm... I'm okay," he managed to say, his voice wavering.
Mina's eyes searched his face, as if trying to read between the lines. "You had us all so worried. Why did you send that message?"
Izuku's gaze dropped to his hands, his fingers trembling. "I... I thought I was protecting you all. I didn't want you to worry."
Mina's expression softened, and she placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Izuku, we care about you. You don't have to go through this alone."
As her words sank in, tears welled up in Izuku's eyes. He had been so focused on sparing his loved ones from pain that he had overlooked their capacity to support him. With a shaky breath, he looked up at Mina, gratitude and regret warring within him.
"I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice raw with emotion.
Mina's smile was understanding, her grip on his shoulder reassuring. "We're here for you, Izuku. Lean on us when you need to."
In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of a friend who cared, Izuku felt a glimmer of hope. He realized that he didn't have to face his struggles alone, that there were people who would stand by his side no matter what.
As they sat on the park bench, Mina's presence a comforting anchor, Izuku allowed himself to believe that maybe, just maybe, he could find his way through the darkness with the support of those who cared about him.
——