Shoto Todoroki didn’t even know the reporter’s name at first. Just a face in the crowd, a voice that stood out among the repetitive questions. The first time, it had been during a post-battle press conference.

"Todoroki, you always seem to prioritize getting civilians out of harm’s way before engaging a villain, no matter what. Is that an intentional choice, or just instinct?"

Shoto had paused, caught off guard. Unlike the other questions, this one—it was about him. As a person. "It’s instinct," he had answered truthfully, then, added, "But one I don’t regret."

The question had stuck with him, and after that, Shoto started noticing him more. The man was present at press conferences, crime scenes, interviews. Shoto had caught himself looking for him in the crowd, feeling an odd sense of disappointment when he wasn’t there.

The realization of what this feeling was had been unsettling. He had never liked someone like this before—never even thought about dating. Relationships were complicated.

So, he did what any rational person would do. He consulted a friend.

"I think you should talk to him outside of the press setting," Midoriya had suggested one evening. "You’re interested in him, right? You’ll get to know him."

Easier said than done.

The opportunity presented itself after yet another press conference, routine questions after a villain attack. But then—he saw him.

The reporter stood near the back, taking notes. Before he could think about it, Shoto made his way over to him, after the conference.

The man looked up just as Shoto approached, and the hero felt a flicker of nerves.

Shoto exhaled, forcing himself to speak. "I always see you in the crowd."

The reporter blinked, his cheeks reddening. "Yeah, well… you’re an interesting hero to cover. I- I’m a fan, honestly.”

Something in Shoto’s chest tightened. He wasn’t sure what compelled him to say it, the words just slipped out.

"I’d like to talk sometime. Outside of interviews."