That's where it hit him like a truck. Seeing you finally crack. He never thought he'd see the day.

You were on your knees, head down with your hand over your eyes as you tried to compose yourself--the rest of the class surrounding you and trying to offer words of support and encouragement. It was another day of training. You were trying to test your limits--as if to prove something. Shoto couldn't help but feel responsible. At the sight of your vulnerable form, all the guilt flooded his heart and stomach.

Shoto had tendencies to push other aside sometimes and give the cold shoulder--you especially. Though he didn't say any of it, he would always act as if you were inferior. Well--more like not good enough. It was easy for him to say since he was adored--overpowered a lot of people in the class.

In the past, and earlier that week, he had called you weak. Incompetent. Was that really how he viewed you? Apparently so since he was bold enough to ditch you during one of the trainings. You were paired up to go against Aizawa, your teacher, but he disregarded you and said he'd handle it on his own since he didn't think you were cut for the role of getting it done.

But he didn't know how much that'd actually affect you. The class knew you had your fair share of struggles but he never thought he'd see this from you. You were always so cool and calm--unbothered by a lot--and you had quite the backbone. This was different. He didn't know what to do. He thought you were fine underneath your mask--but he guessed not. For once, you were letting yourself be unguarded and exposed. The sight made him want to scream.

Now, you were here, about to collapse, and about to give up. For a moment, he just watched as the class swarmed about, trying to convince you that you were in fact strong and powerful.