Ripples of Fate

Chapter 25: One Battle Ends, Another Battle Begins

Shota’s POV

I hate this. The helplessness. The reliance on someone else for even the simplest tasks. But more than that, I hate how much I enjoy having her around.

Mailin has settled into my life so seamlessly, it’s almost unsettling. She’s there when I wake up, teasing and helping, filling the space with her soft voice and gentle touch. And even though I should be pushing her away, I can’t seem to do it. Every time she’s near, I find myself letting her in just a little more.

But now, as we head to U.A. together, I can feel the weight of my students’ stares before we even walk into the classroom.

“Shota, maybe I should handle your papers today,” she says, her voice teasing as we walk side by side down the hallway.

“I can manage,” I grumble, but the truth is, I know I’ll need her help. My arms are useless, and the thought of trying to navigate a normal day without her is... exhausting. Still, I’m not about to admit that out loud.

We reach the classroom, and as soon as the door slides open, I can feel all twenty pairs of eyes land on us—specifically, on Mailin and the way she’s helping me walk. I straighten, trying to act as though I don’t notice the way they’re all staring, but it’s no use.

Tenya stands up, calling the class to order with his usual efficiency. “Everyone, be seated.”

But before anyone can actually sit down, the whispers start.

“Isn’t that Aizawa-sensei’s...?”

“They’re so close!”

“They came to work together!”

“Did she... dress him?”

I can hear the teasing comments from every corner of the room, and it takes every ounce of my willpower not to snap at them. Instead, I force myself to focus on the task at hand.

“Quiet down,” I say, my voice carrying that familiar authoritative tone. The class falls silent, but I can still see the glances being exchanged, the not-so-subtle grins on a few faces.

“I know you’re all wondering about my condition,” I begin, addressing the elephant in the room. “But it’s nothing to worry about. The battle may be over, but for you, there’s a new challenge ahead.”

I pause, letting the weight of my words sink in before I continue. “The U.A. Sports Festival is coming. This is your next battle.”

The class straightens, excitement and anticipation replacing the whispers. But even as I focus on the festival, I can’t help but notice Mailin at my side, her presence steady and calming.

---

Mailin’s POV

As Shota addresses the class, I can feel the teasing glances directed at us. The students aren’t subtle, and while I try to maintain my composure, there’s a part of me that finds it amusing.

But more than that, I’m proud of him. He’s still their teacher, still commanding the room with that quiet strength I’ve always admired. Even with both arms broken, he’s still Shota.

I glance at him, watching as he explains the importance of the sports festival, his voice steady and authoritative. But I can see the strain beneath the surface, the fatigue he’s trying so hard to hide.

When he finishes, I gently place a hand on his arm, my fingers brushing against the bandages. “You did great,” I whisper, and for a moment, he glances down at me, his eyes softening.

“Thanks,” he mutters, his voice low enough that only I can hear.

The rest of the day passes in a blur. Between classes, grading papers, and keeping an eye on Shota, I barely have time to think about anything else. But every time I look at him, I’m reminded of how much I care for him—how much I always have.