It's a Bet

Chapter 21

MIDORIYA'S POV

Red eyes scanned over my body, taking in every inch of me. He's been staring at me since I got dressed, not that I'm surprised. I usually wear baggy clothes, but I can clean up nicely when I want to. I also know the type of body I have when I'm not hating it.

I know I look good in my suit.

"God damn," he murmured, reaching up to straighten my tie. "I want to throw you on that bed."

"Maybe later?" I asked, hopeful.

"I said want, not will."

At this point, I'm starting to think that there's something wrong with me. I know his reputation for sleeping around and how many people he's been with. Yet, he doesn't want to be with me.

I try telling myself it's not because of my body but because of my issues; it's hard. I always have to remind myself that he finds me attractive and wants me. I know he does because I've felt it before. I've seen that desperation and lust in his eyes more times than I can count.

Something is holding him back.

I don't know what it is, but I'm desperate enough to drop to my knees and beg at this point.

"I'll see you in three hours," he said, pulling his hands away now that he had successfully fixed my tie.

I forced a smile. "I wish you were coming with me."

"Me too," he said. "But I promise that after everything is said and done, I won't leave your side if you don't want me to."

Letting out a shaky sigh, I nodded. "I'll see you in a few hours." I leaned into his chest, pressing a chaste kiss to his lips before heading for the door.

The walk to the deck was long and boring. When I got there, the car was already waiting, and of course, I was the last one to arrive, even though I was nearly ten minutes early. The rest of the groom's party was in the car. As soon as I joined, they went silent, glaring at me. They hate me for existing, and unfortunately, there isn't a thing I can do to change their mind.

When we were talking the other night, they asked if I worked, and I told them I did. They were surprised, but they weren't surprised to hear that my mom and Toshinori pay for my tuition, and they are currently paying for my apartment since I can't afford it.

I know that's a privilege that many don't have. I understand that. I am thankful for them both every day, but it doesn't mean that I plan to use them for the rest of my life. I still work for my spending money and food money, and if they want to help, that shouldn't be anybody else's business.

I stayed silent while the rest of them resumed their conversations. I texted my mom, asking if it was okay for me to stop by her room when I arrived. Obviously, she said yes.

As soon as the car was parked, I made a break for the bridal party, which was much happier to see me when I arrived. I hugged everyone before approaching my mother, who looked stunning. Her dress was on, and her hair fell around her face. It hadn't been touched yet, and neither had her makeup. Regardless, she looks beautiful.

"Your dress is amazing, mom." Unsurprisingly, she started crying while trying to pull me into a hug. It was a pathetic hug at best since her dress was so puffy.

"I love you, Izuku. Thank you for being here today." She pulled away and looked over my suit. "You look so handsome."

I smiled weakly. "Thank you, mom." I leaned forward to the best of my ability and kissed her cheek. "If you change your mind, Katsuki said he'll be happy to drive the getaway car."