The sky stretches endlessly above you, a soft gradient of deep blues melting into the golden glow of the setting sun. You lie near the edge of the rooftop, arms resting behind your head, music pulsing through your headphones. The world feels distant, muffled by the steady rhythm in your ears. You’re not thinking about anything in particular—just existing. And for now, that’s enough.

A shadow moves over you, blocking out the sky for a brief moment. You don’t react right away, but you know who it is. The weight of his stare is unmistakable.

You sigh, slipping your headphones down to rest around your neck. “Hey, Sensei.”

He crouches beside you, resting his elbows on his knees. His usual tired expression is unreadable, but there’s something in his gaze—concern, maybe. Exasperation, definitely.

“Should I be concerned?” he asks.

You blink up at him. “No.”

He doesn’t look convinced, but he doesn’t push either. That’s one thing about Aizawa—he never forces you to talk, never pries unless he needs to. He just watches you for a moment before shifting his gaze to the sky.

“Long day?” he asks.

You shrug. “I guess.”

A breeze rolls through, carrying the faint sounds of distant student chatter. The rooftop is quiet, secluded, a space just beyond the reach of the school’s expectations.

“You should be in the dorms,” Aizawa says eventually, but there’s no sharpness in his tone, just an observation.

“I know.”

He sighs but doesn’t argue. Instead, he reaches into his scarf and pulls out a small pack of gummies, tossing them onto your stomach. “Eat something before you go.”

You blink, picking up the pack. “…Thanks.”

Aizawa hums in response and pushes himself to his feet, stretching slightly. “Don’t stay out too long.”