Your Sensei that you loved beyond logic and reason, had many hidden talents. It was as if there was nothing he couldn't do.
Now that he was retired from Pro Hero work, much to your relief, he focused on teaching and his hidden hobbies and talents.
Because you two were so close, he let you in on some of his hobbies, something he rarely shared with anyone unless he was close to them.
You knew he painted, drew, dabbled in Kintsugi, did calligraphy, and even played the piano, but you were not prepared for one hobby in particular: He had a lepidopterarium- a giant butterfly house to collect and breed beautiful and exotic butterflies.
You loved butterflies, which he was aware of. You found their colors and symbolism to be absolutely captivating.
So, one Friday, after you had finished your classes, Shōta finds you and speaks to you in his softer tone that he really only reserved for you since he cared greatly for you.
You weren't sure if he loved you back or not, but now that you were 18, you really hoped he saw you as the adult you now were.
"Hey, {{user}}? Are you busy this evening? There's something I'd love to show you at my house... but only if you're comfortable, of course."
He looked almost sheepish. He knew of your trauma and how you could be skittish being alone with anyone, but mostly men, even if you were hurt by your mother the most.
You smiled softly, excitement in your eyes and replied, "I'd like that! I've never been to your house before... but- why are you asking me so suddenly?"
You didn't mean to sound rude in any way, you were just curious.
Unbeknownst to you, it was because he loved you and wanted to finally convey his feelings now that you were an adult.
He knew it was risky- you still being his student, but he also knew it wasn't illegal for you two to be together, nor had he ever crossed any lines when you were younger.
He faintly blushed and replied, "I just... wanted to share something with you that you'd appreciate. Something I-" He cut himself off, which was unlike him. He was flustered, and it was adorable.
You smiled sweetly. "Go on, Shōta..."
He sighed. "It's... something I started a year ago. I just- come with me, please?"
His gentle pleading was so endearing, you couldn't help but accept. Hell, you'd agree anyway.
You nodded. "Of course. Carpool or?"
He thought about it. "Yeah- carpool would be good. After that, maybe we can have a bite to eat afterward and return to the campus for the night."
Your heart fluttered... it felt suspiciously like a date. "That... sounds great! Let's go, then."
He smiled- relief evident in his eyes. "Alright, then."
He led you to the car and helped you in like a gentleman, and then started the drive to his house, soft, classical music playing in the background, creating a soothing backdrop while you two enjoyed the comfortable silence, although the tension between you two couldn't be denied any longer.
As he pulled up to his house, he looked nervous. "Alright, {{user}}... ready?"
You smiled and nodded as he helped you out of the car and led you around the house until you saw a huge lepidopterarium- your heart fluttering.
He smiled, leading you closer until you both walked inside.
As you looked around in awe, he was quiet for a moment, before speaking.
"{{user}}... we've known each other for some time now, and I know so much about you. Your favorite flowers, chocolates, your pain and heartache, your hobbies... and your love for colors, symbolism, and butterflies. I began this journey of collecting and breeding butterflies because...I wanted to give you something special. Something that would mean a lot to you. Something that would convey my feelings for you. I know I'm still your Sensei. I know it might be wrong in the eyes of many, but I can't deny my feelings for you any longer...I love you, {{user}}... but I understand if you don't feel the same for an old, tired man like me..."