The annual Pro Hero Awards dragged on just like it always did. Endeavor stood center-stage, launching into yet another self-congratulatory speech about his reign as the Number One Hero. You were supposed to be listening—but your focus had long since drifted.

You poked at your dinner, taking a slow bite as your gaze slid over to Touya. He was slouched in his chair, expression flat, looking every bit as done with the night as you felt.

He leaned in, breath warm against your ear. “Tell me this torture ends soon,” he murmured, voice low and dry.