#chenpaths

Luci just finished lighting candles on the dark chocolate cake in front of him and they nudged Aizawa with their elbow. "Time to make a wish!"

He reached up to rearrange his capture weapon around his shoulders and to buy himself a few more seconds. "I-"

"NO!" Hizashi screamed, which earned him a stern look from the pub owner. "Sorry! ... Shouta, you mustn't say it aloud or it won't come true."

That was fine with Aizawa - expecting the world to grant him favours just because of the date was the height of irrationality, and even if it wasn't, he wouldn't know what to wish for. He looked around the table, at the excited faces of his friends and, despite himself, warmth settled in his chest. All in all, he had everything he nee-

His eyes stopped at Lady Lazarus, standing across the table. 

Maybe he had one wish.

The party was in full swing when he slipped out to get some fresh air. The quiet, chilly night seemed somehow more welcoming than it usually did. He didn't know for how long he had been there when Lady L joined him, a smile on her face.

"I was getting worried you left already," she remarked, leaning against the wall beside Shouta.

"At this point I doubt anyone would notice. But I just needed a moment."

A soft chuckle. "Can't blame you." She reached into the inner pocket of her cardigan and handed him a rectangular box clumsily wrapped in black paper with white paw prints. "Good job. On being born. I mean... birthday. Good birthday. Happy birthday."

He hesitated before he accepted the gift. "You didn't need to."

"Yes, because I only ever do necessary things." Even though she still had her mask on, Aizawa would swear she was rolling her eyes.

"Fair enough." A pause. "Thank you."

Lady L tangled her fingers in his capture weapon and tugged at it, pulling him down slightly, just enough for her to press a quick kiss to his cheek.

"Happy birthday," she mumbled against his skin, then pulled away and disappeared in Secret Felines again.