Ripples of Fate

Chapter 61: Christmas at Heights Alliance

Mailin’s POV

The excitement in the common area of Heights Alliance is contagious. Everywhere I look, the members of Class 1-A are bustling with energy, prepping the place for the Christmas celebration. A huge tree stands in the center of the room, sparkling with lights and ornaments the students have eagerly hung up, and there’s the distinct smell of turkey coming from the kitchen, thanks to Sato.

It’s strange, I think, seeing everyone here, smiling and carefree, despite everything we’ve gone through. But maybe that’s the beauty of it. We’ve all learned how to hold onto moments like these.

I catch sight of Izuku, Ochaco, Tsuyu, and Tenya discussing their future Hero Work-Studies. Their conversation seems deep, a reminder that even in festive times, the future looms over them all. I linger nearby, listening as Ochaco and Tsuyu share their plans to return to Ryukyu. Tenya’s always so prepared, and it seems like he’s trying to give Izuku some direction, though Izuku is struggling, feeling stuck about his next step.

"Have you figured out what you’ll do for your Work-Studies, Midoriya?" I ask gently, stepping into their conversation. Izuku looks up, smiling, though there's a glint of uncertainty in his eyes.

He shakes his head. "I’ve thought about returning to Gran Torino or maybe the Nighteye Agency, but... nothing’s worked out. I’m in a bit of limbo."

My heart tightens just a bit. I know how hard Izuku works, how much pressure he puts on himself. "Something will come up," I tell him with a smile, though deep down, I share a little of his worry.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the room, I spot Bakugou, Kirishima, and Mineta talking. Well, arguing is more like it, with Mineta trying to shift the conversation away from school. "We’re supposed to be celebrating Christmas, not stressing over internships!" Mineta exclaims, gesturing dramatically.

“Shut it, Grape-Head. You’re the last person I need advice from,” Bakugou snaps back, clearly uninterested in the conversation but still caught up in thoughts about his own future. Kirishima’s voice is a bit more grounded, trying to encourage him by reminding him of other agency options.

Suddenly, there’s a stir near the entrance. The door opens, and the sight of Shota standing there, accompanied by a wide-eyed Eri dressed as Santa Claus, draws everyone’s attention. The little girl looks absolutely adorable, her oversized Santa hat nearly slipping over her eyes, and the sheer joy on her face melts my heart.

"Sensei, you brought Eri!" Mina squeals, rushing forward with the others to greet her. The class lights up with excitement, their previous serious discussions completely forgotten as they swarm Eri with compliments on her festive attire.

Shota’s POV

Eri clings to my leg, a little overwhelmed by the sudden attention. I rest a hand on her head, offering a reassuring smile. “She’s been looking forward to this all week,” I say, glancing around the room. It’s clear everyone’s happy to have her here, and seeing her this positive makes my chest tighten a little.

"You really brought out the big guns with that outfit, Sensei," Denki teases, grinning from ear to ear.

“I wasn’t the one who picked it out,” I respond dryly, my gaze flicking to Mailin, who’s grinning at me from across the room. Eri had been so excited about the party that she insisted on dressing up, and Mailin, ever the supportive presence, had taken it upon herself to help Eri find the perfect outfit. I watch as she walks over to join us, the warmth in her eyes undeniable as she looks at Eri.

"Santa suits you, Eri," Mailin says softly, kneeling down to meet Eri’s gaze. Eri beams at her, and I feel a strange mix of pride and something deeper stir within me. It’s in moments like these, seeing Mailin connect so naturally with Eri, that I’m reminded of how much she’s become a part of my life.

As the party kicks off, I let myself relax for once. Everyone seems genuinely happy—there’s laughter, banter, and the sound of Christmas music filling the room. Eri even joins in on the gift exchange, though she shyly sticks close to Mailin and me for most of it.

But even during the festivities, I can’t help but notice Midoriya and Bakugo quietly talking with Todoroki near the back. Something serious is brewing there, and when I overhear Todoroki offer both of them a chance to intern at his father’s agency, I silently nod to myself. It’s a good opportunity—they need that kind of push, especially right now.

---

As the evening winds down, everyone helps clean up, and I find myself stealing a few glances at Mailin. She’s talking with Yaoyorozu and Ochaco, laughing about something, her eyes bright in the glow of the Christmas lights. She looks up and catches me staring, and when she raises an eyebrow with a playful smirk, I just shrug.

It’s been a good night—one of the rare ones where I’ve allowed myself to just be in the moment. With Mailin, with Eri, and even with the chaos that is Class 1-A. It feels like home.