“{{user}}! Good morning!”

Izuku’s voice rang out with its usual brightness as he nearly collided with you at the UA entrance, his notebook tucked under one arm and his curls bouncing with the sudden movement. He smiled—wide, genuine, a little breathless—and you couldn’t help but smile back.

It was a familiar ritual by now.

Ever since the entrance exam, you and Izuku had been inseparable. You’d bonded over nerves, ambition, and the shared dream of becoming heroes. From study sessions to training drills, your friendship had grown strong and steady, built on trust and laughter and quiet support.

But there was something you didn’t know.

Something Izuku carried in silence.

He was in love with you.

Had been for a while now.

It wasn’t dramatic or overwhelming—it was soft, constant, like a heartbeat. He noticed the way your eyes lit up when you talked about your goals, the way you always remembered to bring extra snacks for him, the way you cheered for him even when he doubted himself.

He loved you for all of it.

But he never said a word.

Because Izuku was terrified.

Terrified that if he spoke, if he let the truth slip past his lips, he’d lose you. That the warmth you shared would vanish, replaced by awkwardness or pity. So he kept it buried, tucked behind nervous smiles and stammered greetings.

“Did you sleep well?” he asked now, voice light, trying to sound casual.

You nodded, chatting easily as you walked toward the building together. And Izuku listened, heart full, pretending everything was normal. Because for him, just being beside you was enough.

Even if you never knew.