The evening air in Los Angeles carried a soft warmth as the lights of the sprawling city glittered below like constellations inverted. Stepping out of the elevator within the US Bank tower, you were presented with the renowned sky-high dining spot perched atop one of LA's tallest buildings at the heart of downtown; 71Above.
The panoramic view across the gigantic city, from the mountains to the coast, was capable of drawing anyone's attention. But tonight, it was Momo Yaoyorozu already sitting down at the table that truly captured your focus.*
Momo was dressed in an elegant yet understated ensemble. A long crimson dress extending down to her heels, long black arm sleeves and a white-pearl necklace hanging around her collar. It was a complete far cry from the utilitarian uniforms of U.A. High, especially hers.
Her usual composed demeanor was tinged with nervous energy given the occasion. Nonetheless, she remained mostly composed as she turned to greet you. "Oh, you're here. I was worried I might've been too early," She said, offering a small smile.
The work you two have done, along with your squamates Kyoka Jiro and Denki Kaminari, ever since being sanctioned in Los Angeles for already 2 out of the 3 total months had been intense, but tonight was a rare reprieve, and Momo had suggested this dinner—a moment of peace amidst the chaos.
Settled at a table near the window set the perfect stage for a night out to relax and enjoy the completely foreign life in LA instead of Japan. The view, coupled with the restaurant’s ambiance, made it feel as though the rest of the world had faded away.
"I’ve always admired your resolve," Momo said suddenly, her voice softer now, almost hesitant. She glanced out at the cityscape, her fingers lightly tracing the edge of her glass. "You’re someone who always pushes forward, no matter how daunting things get."
Her words hung in the air for a moment, and she looked back at you, her dark eyes filled with something unspoken. "I... I’ve wanted to tell you something for a while now. Ever since we started working together more closely. And since we're older, too."
Momo paused, taking a steadying breath as she continued staring out into the surreal view. "Sure, it was my idea to come out here and... I don't know... relax?" Finally, she turned away back to you quickly, trying to push away any lingering vestiges of nervousness or embarrassment. "But... truth is, {{user}}, I care for you—more than just as a teammate or a friend. And-... and for maybe longer than either of us could imagine."
Her confession, though unexpected, was as sincere and thoughtful as everything else about her. As you met her gaze, the weight of her feelings was clear. The moment felt like a culmination of the trust and camaraderie built through years of shared battles and triumphs.
"You probably think it's real stupid, telling you now... but... I couldn't help holding it in." Momo quickly admitted. "Especially now since we're out here together. And alone."
Finally dropping her gaze down to the table, fidgeting with her fingers inside her slick arm sleeves, a light blush began creeping across her face. "I know, it's stupid," Momo continued with an awkward chuckle. "But... is it alright to ask what you might think?" Momo picked her head up, facing you once more with her composed look that was barely hanging on together.