~*Promises of the Stars*~ |Soulmate AU|

9: False Promises

     I'm tired. I don't want to be here anymore and I know Shota knows that. During his nap, I sometimes catch a few worried glances and frowns. I barely pay attention to the lecture Midnight is going on about. That was until the bell rang and interrupted her sentence.

"Problem Child, can you please stay," Shota muttered as he was standing up.

"Yes, sir."

     I stay in my creaking seat as the bell blares through the school. I quickly take notice of Shota moving toward my desk. I felt the familiar warmth of comfort and care radiate through his presence. 

"Are you okay?" His eyes glistened with a subtle glint of worry.

"Yeah," I mumbled half-heartedly.

"No, you're not. You can always speak to me or Hizashi about how you're feeling, you don't have to keep it in. At least, not anymore." 

     I smile softly at him and he opens his arms slightly, suggesting a hug. I get up and gladly go up and hug his muscular physique. All at once, I was swarmed by warmth, comfort, and the dull scent of coffee. His arms wrapped around my waist and held me tighter. It felt like heaven.

"Now, can you tell me what's wrong?" He urged calmly.

"It's just been a stressful week. All Might has been on my back about training, and I'm getting a bit tired. I'm okay though." I muttered into his chest.

"Izuku, you're overworking yourself. You need to learn when to take breaks. It's not healthy for you to keep training as aggressively as you are. I'll talk to All Might about this, but you need to slow down for a second."

"I will."

     I feel bad for lying to him like that. I'm exhausted, but I can't let All Might down. This power is a privilege, and I should be working to keep it. I can't lose the only thing that got me here. I can't risk losing the only people who have ever cared about me.

     I'm lucky it was the end of the day, so I don't have to worry about anybody walking in on Shota and me. I felt safe and protected like no one can break us apart, and I liked that. I want to be safe, but it's hard when you're the most targeted student at UA.

"I should probably get going to our dorm. I have some work to do."

"Okay. Remember to take breaks and stay safe. I love you," He whispered.

     I froze for a second. How do I respond? I've never been told this before. I know I feel the same way, but is it too early? Then why did he say it? Before I could think I just blurted, "I love you, too!"

     I felt his body shake as he chuckled softly. He planted a kiss on the top of my head and smiled. "Okay, get going."

     I reluctantly let go, taking a step back. My flushed face hung low in embarrassment and I left the room. My body shivered from the lack of warmth that once surrounded it with strong arms and a kind smile. 

     As I walked the halls, my mind was blank. I couldn't think clearly, so my body went on autopilot. I ended up in front of the door leading to the training room. My scarred hand hovered over the handle. Then, I pulled the heavy steel doors open and shut them quietly, as to not alert any teachers or remaining students.

     I set my bright yellow backpack next to the door and sat down on the floor. I did a couple of quick stretches before I stood up and pondered what to do first. Should I work on One For All or just my overall strength? Maybe I could do both.

     I headed toward the open area in the room meant for training martial arts. I bent my knees slightly and closed my eyes. I felt limitless power flow through my veins. I felt the electricity surge around my skin. One For All 20%.