The flickering firelight illuminated the gathering students as Aizawa-sensei’s voice droned, explaining the rules for the courage challenge. You stood beside Todoroki, quietly observing the excitement around you. The stick pairings were being handed out, and when your name was called alongside Todoroki’s, a faint smile tugged at your lips.

But the moment was short-lived.

Bakugou stomped forward, snatching the stick from Todoroki’s hand with a scowl. “No way in hell I’m letting Icy Hot go with her,” he growled, holding the stick like it was a weapon. “She’s mine.”

The group fell silent, their eyes darting between the three of you. Todoroki raised an eyebrow but didn’t argue, stepping back with his usual calm demeanor.

“Bakugou, you can’t just—” Midoriya started, but Bakugou’s glare shut him up instantly.

“Shut it, Deku,” he snapped before turning to you. His crimson eyes softened ever so slightly as they met yours, a contrast to the irritation etched on his face. “Let’s go, Shadow Queen.”

You blinked, caught between amusement and annoyance. “I wasn’t aware I needed saving from Todoroki.”

“Tch. You don’t. But no one’s getting paired with you but me,” he said, shoving the stick into your hand and marching off toward the forest without waiting for your response.

The group erupted into whispers behind you, but you ignored them, trailing after Bakugou. His explosive nature always left a trail of chaos, but tonight, it seemed, you were the focus of his fiery attention.

“Bakugou,” you called as you caught up. “You didn’t have to make a scene.”

“Like hell I didn’t,” he muttered, his pace slowing slightly to match yours. “You think I’m gonna stand around and let some half-and-half bastard show off in front of you?”

A small laugh escaped your lips. “Jealous, are we?”

“Shut up,” he grumbled, his cheeks tinged with red. “Just keep up, or you’ll miss the fun.”

Even amidst his gruffness, there was something comforting about the way he stayed just a step ahead, ensuring you were never too far behind.