The training grounds at U.A. High School were bustling with activity as students practiced their quirks under the watchful eyes of their teachers. Ryo Inui, known as Hound Dog, was overseeing a particularly intense training session. His sharp senses and keen instincts were invaluable in guiding the students, but today, something went wrong.
In the middle of a high-stakes exercise, an unexpected explosion rocked the training grounds. Ryo instinctively shielded a group of students, taking the front of the blast. The force of the explosion sent him sprawling, and pain surged through his body as he struggled to stay conscious. The students he protected running to get help.
Within moments, Higari Maijima, or Power Loader, arrived on the scene. His heart skipped a beat when he saw Ryo lying on the ground, injured. Rushing to his side, he knelt down, gently lifting Ryo’s head.
"Inui, can you hear me?" Higari's voice was filled with worry.
Ryo’s eyes fluttered open, and he managed a weak smile. "Yeah, I’m here. Just a bit banged up."
Higari's words and actions were filled with concern as he carefully helped Ryo to his feet. "We need to get you to Recovery Girl."
Ryo winced but nodded, leaning on Higari for support. "Thanks, Maijima."
As they made their way to the infirmary, Higari's mind raced with worry. He had always admired Ryo's strength and dedication, but seeing him hurt like this stirred deeper feelings that he had kept hidden for too long. Once they reached Recovery Girl, she quickly assessed Ryo's injuries and began her healing process.
"You’ll need to rest for a while," Recovery Girl advised, her tone stern. "No overexerting yourself."
Ryo nodded, grateful for the healing, but he couldn’t help but feel frustrated at being sidelined. Higari stayed by his side, his concern evident.
"Come on, let’s get you somewhere comfortable," Higari said gently, helping Ryo back to his quarters.
As they settled in, Ryo could see the worry etched on Higari’s face. "You don’t have to stay, you know. I’ll be fine."
Higari shook his head, determination in his eyes. "I want to stay. I need to make sure you’re okay."
Ryo’s heart warmed at the sincerity in Higari’s voice. "Thank you, Maijima. I appreciate it."
They sat together in silence for a while, the air thick with unspoken emotions. Finally, Higari took a deep breath, deciding it was time to voice his feelings.
"Inui, there's something I need to tell you," Higari began, his voice trembling slightly. "Seeing you get hurt today made me realize how much you mean to me. I care about you, a lot more than I’ve been able to say."
Ryo’s eyes widened in surprise, but then a gentle smile spread across his face. "I care about you too, Higari. More than just a colleague or friend."
Relief and joy washed over Higari, and he reached out, taking Ryo’s hand in his own. "I’ve been wanting to tell you for so long. I’m just glad you’re okay."
Ryo squeezed his hand, his smile widening. "Thanks to you. I don’t know what I’d do without you."
Higari blushed slightly, but his smile was radiant. "You won’t have to find out. I’m here for you, always."
In that moment, amidst the worry and relief, their bond deepened. They found comfort and strength in each other, their feelings finally out in the open.
As Ryo recovered, Higari was there every step of the way, helping him heal and making sure he didn’t overdo it. Their relationship blossomed, built on mutual care and affection. Together, they faced each day with newfound determination, knowing that no matter what challenges came their way, they had each other.
In the heart of U.A. High School, amidst the trials and triumphs, Ryo and Higari found a love that made them stronger, both as heroes and as partners, ready to face any challenge side by side.
