Slim Pickings

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 a/n - I'm lazy 2/5 last parts

Ochaco Uraraka's life in the bustling city was a never-ending loop of deadlines, spreadsheets, and monotonous routines. The once-enjoyable hum of her work had grown into a droning cacophony of stress and exhaustion. Each day seemed to blend into the next, and the vibrant city lights no longer held the same allure they once did. A sense of weariness had settled in her heart, making her long for a change, something to disrupt the repetitive cycle of her life.

When her best friend Mina suggested a vacation at a dude ranch, Ochaco was hesitant. The idea of escaping her city life for a week in the countryside felt both exhilarating and daunting. She imagined the wide-open spaces and rustic charm of a ranch as a stark contrast to her crowded urban existence. But with her workload becoming increasingly overwhelming, the idea of a break began to seem more appealing.

With a mix of reluctance and anticipation, Ochaco packed her bags for the trip. The thought of a temporary escape was enticing, even if it meant stepping far outside her comfort zone. As she boarded the bus with her friends, she couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement mingled with apprehension.

The journey to Bakugou Ranch was filled with lively chatter and laughter from her friends, but Ochaco found herself lost in her thoughts. The bus ride wound through picturesque landscapes—rolling hills, expansive fields, and the occasional glimpse of distant mountains. By the time they arrived, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the ranch.

The ranch itself was charming, with its weathered wooden buildings and sprawling grounds. Horses grazed peacefully in the paddocks, and the air was filled with the earthy scent of hay and fresh grass. As the group disembarked, Ochaco's attention was immediately drawn to a man standing by the entrance of the ranch house.

Katsuki Bakugou was an imposing figure. His intense red eyes and spiky blonde hair made him stand out even amidst the vibrant surroundings. Despite his rugged appearance, there was a certain magnetism to him, an air of confidence and authority that drew Ochaco in. He greeted the group with a mixture of gruffness and irritation, clearly not thrilled to have his peaceful routine interrupted.

"Welcome to Bakugou Ranch," he announced, his voice a deep rumble. "We've got a lot planned for the week. Follow me, and I'll show you around."

Ochaco's curiosity was piqued. Despite his rough demeanor, she couldn't help but feel intrigued by him. As they followed him on a tour of the ranch, she observed him closely, noting the way he handled the guests with a mix of exasperation and efficiency. Beneath his gruff exterior, there was a palpable sense of dedication and pride in his work.

The days at the ranch were filled with various activities—horseback riding, fishing, and learning about ranch life. Ochaco threw herself into the experience, immersing herself in the tasks and enjoying the camaraderie with her friends. Yet, there was something about Bakugou's demeanor that continued to intrigue her. He often disappeared into his office, leaving her with a sense of something unresolved.

One evening, after a particularly exhausting day, Ochaco found herself wandering near the main ranch house. The sun had set, leaving the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. She saw Bakugou enter his office, looking unusually tense. Compelled by a mix of concern and curiosity, she decided to follow him.

Standing outside the office door, she could hear the sound of papers shuffling and occasional frustrated mutterings. Gathering her courage, she knocked softly. "Katsuki?"

His voice, though strained, was unmistakable. "What is it?"

Ochaco opened the door slightly, peeking inside. The sight was chaotic—papers scattered across the floor, financial documents piled haphazardly on the desk, and Bakugou looking thoroughly overwhelmed. He looked up, surprise evident in his eyes before his usual scowl returned.

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