Made to Destroy | BNHA x OP!Reader

[34] Catching Attention

"It's late," Aizawa says. "You need to go to sleep. You've got a big day tomorrow."

You wish you could sleep. It's much easier said than done. You're a bundle of nerves and excitement right now. Come tomorrow, the Sports Festival will officially kick off. Your strength and abilities are going to be put on display, for the whole country, or rather-the whole world to see.

"Sleep is a luxury not everyone can afford," you sigh, staring off into the distance like you just said something incredibly deep.

Aizawa rolls his eyes. "You do realize who you're talking to, right?"

"Yes. I'm talking to my dad."

"That's obviously not what I meant." He stands there for a few moments, looking slightly exasperated (as always), but eventually, he walks over to you, frees a bandaged arm from the sling he's wearing, and places his hand on top of your head. "It's normal to be nervous. And excited. And whatever other emotions you're feeling right now. But there's no point in overthinking. Just head to bed. You've already prepared as much as you can. There's nothing left to do now but try to get some rest."

You nibble on your lower lip. To be honest, it's not like you to be this self-conscious. You're usually unbothered to a fault, which is the whole reason why you drive Katsuki absolutely insane. You're confident because you're naturally smart, and you pick things up quickly. Plus, you work hard. You never half-ass anything or take it for granted.

There's been a discernible change. Ever since USJ, you're more aware of your strengths-and weaknesses-than ever. Perhaps that's why the Sports Festival means so much to you. Not because you're determined to place first, but because it's a test of your competence. Of your potential, and your ability to protect others.

You know nobody's perfect, but that being said, you never want a repeat of what happened at USJ.

You refuse to watch someone you love get hurt like that, ever again.

"I'm sure I'm not the only one who's nervous," you acknowledge with a slow nod. "I just want to do a good job. I want to show everyone that they can rely on me. I want them to feel safe, just by seeing me. Like how people feel around All Might. Do you think... I'll be able to do that?"

Aizawa knows the truth, of course. He knows that you were created by some sick, twisted individual, and based on the Quirk he gave you, it's clear you were made for sinister purposes. He tortured you. Mutilated you. Simply so that he could confirm whether or not you were functioning as intended. You weren't cared for as a human being. You were treated like a product. A weapon.

As horrible as it sounds... you were probably meant to be a villain.

But it doesn't matter. What was supposed to have happened is already in the past. You made your own choices, and Aizawa knows that all too well. Fate led you into his arms. It doesn't matter what that despicable scientist had planned for you. No matter what, you would've forged your own path.

"Of course you will," Aizawa says. He offers a gentle smile, and truly, he means it. There's not a doubt in his mind.

You are a hero, through and through.

"Thanks, dad," you beam back. Then, you carefully grab onto his hand and bat your eyes at him. "Since you're trying to encourage me and all, do you think you could maybe order me a burger real quick...? Burgers are always the best kind of motivation. Obviously."

Aizawa sighs. He knows it's a little too late now, but he really, really regrets buying you that burger on the very first day you met. He single-handedly created your addiction, without even meaning to. Goddammit, why couldn't he just buy you a salad or something instead?