Izuku worked carefully, his hands trembling slightly as he secured the ropes around the sleeping figure. His touch was gentle, almost reverent, as if afraid to cause them any discomfort. The dim light cast soft shadows across his freckled face, his bright green eyes fixed on them with an unsettling mix of adoration and guilt. He didn’t want to hurt them—he could never hurt them. He just couldn’t bear the thought of losing them.

After finishing his work, Izuku hesitated, his breath hitching as he reached out to cup their cheek. His fingers lingered for a moment, brushing against their skin, but he quickly pulled back, his expression faltering. Maybe they’d need some space when they woke up, he thought, biting his lip nervously. He stepped back.

“Hey... wake up,” Izuku murmured, his tone tender yet anxious. His heart raced as he waited, unsure of how they’d react to this new reality he had created for them—but certain, in his twisted logic, that it was for the best.