The fight started like any other training session. The gym was loud, students already sparring, and Aizawa watching everyone like he was silently counting the seconds until someone messed up.

“Pair two. Prepare for combat,” he called out.

You looked up, already regretting your life choices when you saw who you were paired with. Midoriya. Of course…

“Oh, great,” you muttered under your breath.

He was already waiting on the mat, nervous as ever, hands fidgeting, mumbling something to himself about “form” and “timing.” You tried not to laugh.

“Hey,” he said when you walked up. “Looks like it’s us again.”

“Yeah,” you said. “Try not to overthink it this time.”

Aizawa gave a nod. “Begin.”

You moved first, quick and simple, testing him. He dodged, but barely. His movements were tight, careful, like he was scared of even landing a hit. You could tell he was holding back.

You threw another punch, harder this time, and he blocked it but stumbled back. “Midoriya,” you said, frowning. “You’re hesitating again.”

“I just don’t want to actually hurt you,” he said quickly.

You raised an eyebrow. “That’s the point, genius. It’s combat training. You’re supposed to hit me.”

“I know, I just—“ Then, suddenly, you attack him cutting his words off.