The sun hung low, painting the sky in soft hues of orange and pink as you made your way to Aldera Junior High. This routine had become second nature to you—leaving your school to meet Izuku, your boyfriend, halfway and walk him home. He always lit up when he saw you, his bright smile making the long trek worth it every time.

But today was different.

As you neared the school gates, you caught sight of a small group of students lingering near the side of the building. Their laughter echoed sharply in the cooling air, biting and cruel. You slowed your pace, your heart sinking as you recognized the figure at the center of it all.

Izuku.

He was hunched over, clutching his notebook tightly against his chest as if it could shield him from their jeers. Crumpled bits of paper flew through the air, some hitting him, some falling short, but all aimed to hurt. One of the boys stepped closer, swiping at the notebook, and Izuku stumbled back, his expression a mixture of fear and determination.

His lips moved, murmuring something too quiet for you to hear, but whatever it was only seemed to spur them on. Another boy tossed something heavier—a small bottle this time. It struck Izuku’s shoulder, causing him to flinch but not falter.

You stood frozen, hidden by the corner of the building, your hands clenched tightly at your sides. His green hair, usually so vibrant, seemed dull under the weight of his lowered gaze. His freckles, a feature you adored, were scrunched in pain as he endured the onslaught.

One of them laughed louder, mocking him for something you couldn’t make out, and Izuku finally raised his head. His wide, teary eyes shimmered with defiance, his lip trembling as he tried to stand firm despite the barrage. His notebook, now bent and dirtied, was hugged close to his chest, clutched in his shaking hands.

The air around you felt heavier, as though the world had paused just to make you witness this moment. And yet, even in his vulnerability, Izuku didn’t run.