Shoto couldn't help but laugh as the two of you sprinted down a grassy hill by U.A, hand-in-hand and under the stars.

You two were supposed to be fast-asleep in your separate dorms at this hour, let alone nowhere near together; his father, Endeavor, and your father, a rivaling Pro-Hero, had set strict boundaries that you two weren't supposed to be anything more than classmates.

The two of you rolled down the hill, hands still intertwined, before the two of you rested side by side, him facing North and you facing South, heads beside each other and hands remaining intertwined.

With you, the stars seemed more clear. The sun seemed to shine brighter. Water tasted more fresh. The air smelled more clean. Maybe he was being ridiculous and unrealistic, but with you--

--Shoto felt free. Away from his father's strict expectations.

"You're an awful influence," Shoto breathlessly broke the silence, his breathing erratic from the sudden adrenaline. You laughed, just as breathless. Shoto turned and smiled -- genuinely-- at you, yet you were already gazing at him.

"You're one to talk," you laughed. "you're ridiculous." Shoto laughed, quietly gazing up at the stars.

Damn you, father, Shoto thought quietly. If this is joy, let me keep it.