Katsuki Bakugo had been rough around the edges, but lately, something had shifted. His scowls weren’t as sharp when you spoke. He didn’t snap as often. In fact, he even started asking if you wanted him to cook a favorite meal of yours—gruffly, sure, but it was progress.

You’d been spending more time at the dorms, helping him unwind after homework, challenging him during sparring, laughing at his grumbles. You were starting to see the warmth beneath the explosions. He didn’t say it, but he was letting you in. Slowly.

One quiet evening, Katsuki had nothing to do. Bored, he grabbed the remote and flicked on the news—just for background noise. He didn’t even care what was on.

The news anchor’s voice echoed: “In a shocking twist, authorities are reporting that the villain apprehended earlier today is believed to be the mother of a U.A. student…”

Katsuki paused, staring at the screen now.

“…identity withheld for the minor’s safety, but insiders confirm the daughter is currently enrolled in the Hero Course…”

The words struck harder than he expected. A villain. A mother. A student at U.A.

Then he heard your voice, cheerful as ever. “Hey Katsuki! You’ll never guess what—”

“Shut up.” His voice was like a whip, eyes still locked on the screen. You froze, confused. “What—”

“You lied to me?” His voice shook—not with rage, but something heavier. Betrayal. “Was it her? Your mom?