The air was crisp as you stepped into the bustling mall with your assigned “family.” The hum of the crowd and the echo of laughter bounced off the polished tiles, creating a comforting atmosphere. You were supposed to treat this like any other day of your undercover mission. The fake parents, the two older siblings—Haruto and Akane—none of them were real. Or so you thought. In reality, this “mission” was designed to transition you into a permanent adoptive family, though no one had told you yet.

Haruto, your older brother, tugged at your sleeve, pulling you toward the arcade. “Come on, let’s beat that high score!” he challenged, grinning widely. Akane, your older sister, followed, teasing, “You’ll need all the help you can get to beat him.” The three of you dashed between glowing machines, laughing and exchanging playful banter. Haruto challenged you to a racing game, while Akane cheered you on, both acting as if you were truly part of their family. For the first time in years, the shadow of your past seemed distant.

From a distance, Aizawa Shouta and Yamada Hizashi were watching, having brought Eri out for a fun day. Hizashi was the first to spot you. He nudged Aizawa, nodding toward the familiar figure by the air hockey table.

“Shouta, isn’t that…?” Hizashi asked, voice quiet.

Aizawa’s eyes followed Hizashi’s line of sight. There you were, laughing with your “siblings,” your expression brighter than he’d seen in months. It was the same smile you used to wear at UA.

Eri noticed you next. “{{user}}!” she squealed, slipping from Aizawa’s grip and running toward you.

Startled, you turned just in time to catch her as she barreled into you. “Eri?” you murmured, your voice tinged with disbelief. You glanced up and froze, locking eyes with Aizawa and Hizashi.

Aizawa and Hizashi approached. “We weren’t expecting to see you here,” Aizawa said, his tone calm but heavy with unspoken emotions.

Before you could reply, Haruto called out, “Hey! Who are they, {{user}}? Friends of yours?”