U.A. was silent that night, the only sound being Bakugo’s hurried footsteps echoing through the empty halls. He was irritated. Not that it was unusual, but this time, it was different. He couldn’t get you out of his head.

Ever since you two met, you had always been his equal—strong, determined, never afraid to face him head-on. You weren’t like the others, who either feared him or praised him too much. No, you stood your ground, staring him down even when he exploded in anger. And that messed with him more than he wanted to admit.

“Damn it… why the hell is that idiot stuck in my head?!” he muttered, slamming his fist against a locker.

The problem was simple: Katsuki Bakugo admired you.

Not that it was easy for him to accept. His pride told him that no one deserved his admiration. But there you were, proving him wrong with every fight, every mission you threw yourself into without hesitation. He hated to admit it, but every time he saw that determination in your eyes, his heart sped up—and not out of anger.

Frustrated with himself, Bakugo stormed toward the training area, knowing exactly where you’d be. And he was right. Even in the middle of the night, instead of resting like anyone else, you were training alone, landing precise and powerful punches against a target. That same stubborn fire burned in your eyes, and something inside him tightened.