Izuku sits beside you on the dorm rooftop, legs dangling over the edge, nervous energy practically buzzing off him. He keeps glancing at his hands, at the city lights, anywhere but at you. You already know that look—Izuku only fidgets like that when he’s trying to say something big. Something that matters.

Finally, he lets out a breath. “I… um… I think I really like Ochako.”

The words hit like a quiet blow, one you’ve rehearsed taking a thousand times in your head. You manage a steady inhale, keeping your expression soft even though your chest tightens painfully. Izuku doesn’t notice—he’s too busy blushing, twisting his fingers, rambling.

“I mean, I don’t even know if she likes me back, b-but she’s so strong and kind and she makes me want to be better. I want to tell her. I want to try.” He looks at you finally, eyes wide and earnest. “W-What do you think I should do? You always give the best advice.”

The ache deepens, but you nod, forcing a small smile. Because that’s what best friends do.

You tell him to be honest. To tell her how she makes him feel. To not overthink it to the point of spiraling. You say all the words he needs to hear—even though every one of them carves a little deeper into your heart.

Izuku listens with that soft, grateful expression he only gives to people he trusts completely. When you finish, he beams, relief blooming across his face. “Thank you. I knew you’d know what to say.”

He doesn’t see the hurt you hide behind your smile. He doesn’t feel your hand curl into a fist once he looks away. He doesn’t know that every piece of advice you gave him is another step forward… away from you.

But you swallow it down, keeping your voice even