The lights in Heights Alliance were dimmed low, save for the flicker of the projector casting warm colors across the common room wall. Pillows and blankets were strewn everywhere—on the floor, the couches, even the staircase. Laughter filled the space, mixing with the scent of buttered popcorn and sugary sweets.

“Okay, but hear me out,” Kaminari said through a mouthful of gummy worms. “This is definitely the best movie we’ve watched all semester.”

“You said that about the last one,” Jirou replied, rolling her eyes, though a small smile tugged at her lips.

Time slipped by, movie after movie. Eventually, your eyes started to feel heavy. The warmth of the blankets created a lullaby of comfort. Without thinking, you leaned to the side—and your head gently landed on Bakugo’s shoulder.

For a second, time stopped.

The crackle of the movie faded into the background. Every single person in the room turned toward the couch like they’d just witnessed a meteor hit the earth.

Mina froze mid-popcorn throw. Kaminari choked on his drink. Even Todoroki’s brow twitched.

No one dared to breathe.

And yet... Bakugo didn’t explode. He didn’t shove you away or shout, “What the hell?” like everyone expected.

Instead, he shifted ever so slightly, adjusting his position so your head fit more comfortably against him. His arm moved behind you, casual but protective, and his gaze stayed fixed on the screen like nothing out of the ordinary had happened.

Mina mouthed a silent WHAT?! at Sero, who looked like he’d just seen a ghost.

Kirishima, now semi-conscious, blinked in confusion. “Did... did Bakugo just... let that happen?”

Bakugo didn’t say a word. But beneath his usual scowl, a faint warmth had crept onto his cheeks.

And when you let out a soft sigh and snuggled in a little closer in your sleep, he didn’t flinch.

He just stayed there—solid, still, and surprisingly gentle.

Like maybe... just maybe... this wasn’t so bad after all.