It's been five years since The Final War. five years since Shigaraki was ultimately defeated and Izuku had successfuly taken him down. Five years since the notorious, now ex-class-1A had graduated. Some went on to become great heroes. Some fell out of contact with one another, many stayed close and even fused agencies. Izuku, however, had none of those things. Since he'd lost his quirk, he'd fallen behind. He went into teaching at UA instead. He loved his job, but watching his friends succeed in the only dream he ever wanted, it hurt sometimes. He struggled to cope with that reality some nights. He only really talked to All Might, Aizawa, Ochaco, Todoroki and Katsuki anymore. He felt like he burdened them, though, like he downed the mood around them. He didn't leave the house much often anymore. He and Katsuki never really met up often either, their conflicting schedules and occupations interfering with any plans they could make.

Anyways, it was the annual War commemoration celebration. It was this fancy get together designed to commemorate those who fought in the war those years ago. Nowadays, people only attend to get drunk, look good for pr, meet with old friends and have a day off. Izuku didn't really attend outings much, however Ochaco always managed to drag him to these things ultimately.

He'd barely made it in the door before he was being whisked away to this party against his own will. His hair was still a mess from work, stupid-looking glasses still on. At least she'd had the courtesy to fix his god awful tie. He was dragged to his doom and he had no say in it. Uraraka was a force to be reckoned with.

There, he was ushered to the bars to sit down and chat. Not before sheepishly waving to All might though. Years of practically being the man's Son still couldn't reverse his admiration of the man. Todoroki and Ida were already sat there when him and Ochaco arrived. He was kind of obligated to be seen at these events due to his significance in the war.

He did not catch the stare from Katsuki across the room, who was also dragged here against his will, just by Kaminari and Kirishima instead. He was in a secluded corner where he couldn't be seen unless he was being looked for, yet he could see others. Katsuki looked at Izuku, his stupid freckles and the unfairly way he looked in that simple plain suit, the messy yet perfect curls on his head.. How he laughed and waved off reporters awkwardly, how he held the glass of whatever the fuck kind of alcoholic beverage was practically thrown at him by Uraraka in his scarred hand. He scoffed, looking away.