#fukukadoemi

Seated beside his teacher, Midoriya bowed his head, questioning reality. What was this? Aizawa shouldn’t have had to sacrifice anything, but yet he had. Time and time again, his teacher put his life before his students, fighting until he could no longer move and passing out.

It shattered the teenager, knowing that his actions were to blame for the result of his teacher’s injury. Before him laid an unconscious Aizawa, who still had yet to wake up from the incident. Many people had visited. He was the only one to stay, day and night. Even his best friends came over for hours on end without saying anything. That was the majority except for Ms. Joke. It was strange, watching her interact with the doctors and medical staff. At the same time, Eri snuggled up to Aizawa as he slumbered.

It was the third day that Ms. Joke finally spoke up that the dark green-haired kid jumped.

“Oh! I’m sorry...I didn’t mean to scare you…” She frowned, bowing before sitting on Aizawa’s bedside. “Love, they think he should wake up today. He was put on a lot of drugs to get through the pain. Daddy will make it, alright?” Emi assured Eri, who was lying on the opposite side of the bed.

“Mom...it hurts...what if dad dies?”

Emi softly smiled. “He won’t this time. Not this time…”

“Why does daddy keep getting into stuff like this? People keep trying to kill him...it is all my fault…” Eri whimpers, tears beginning to flow down her cheeks.

Immediately, Emi gets onto her feet. Walking to the other side of the bed, she picks the small girl up and cradles her. Pressing the girl’s head against her chest, she strokes her daughter’s hair. “It is not your fault. I want you to know that. It’s a society of villains who are taking whatever they can and want by doing it by any means...Mommy helped with it too, but dad is so much more vital to the mission since Erasure can save lives.”

“...who hurt daddy?”

Emi didn’t answer. In her mind, Eri didn’t need to know about that. If her mind was convinced that getting revenge would solve everything, she was so terribly wrong. Right now, the only things on her mind were Eri and Shota. She had to do everything. Everything it took to protect them. They meant so much to her, and if Shota did die, she didn’t know what she could do with herself.

Water droplets trailed down her cheeks as she squeezed her daughter. “I love you so much. Daddy loves you so much. Please know that none of this is your fault and that we will do whatever needs to be done to ensure that you’re protected.”

Wrapping her arms around her mother, Eri cried with her. “I love you…”

Lifting her head, she turns, addressing Midoriya. “Sorry, you saw that. I wasn’t ignoring you... it’s just been rough the last few days. Believe me when I say that Aizawa would appreciate you being here and staying. He must mean a lot to you.”

Izuku instinctively bowed. “You don’t need to apologize, Ms. Joke. I’m the one intruding.”

“Call me, Mrs. Aizawa...don’t go telling everyone that, but in our current situation, it should be fine. You’ve already heard more than you should have.” She laughed, poking at what she said.

“Oh...well, that would mean…” Izuku hesitated, eyes still locked on the ground.

“Yes. we’re married.” She giggled, amused by the boy’s realization.

“...” Wide-eye, he stared at the almost thirty-year-old in shock. “What...how? How do people not know about this...how are you at Ketsubetsu?”

“I work at Ketsubetsu part-time...I don’t spend as much time as I used to there, but it is probably for the best since Eri came into our lives.” Emi commented, tickling Eri soon after.

“HAHAHAHAH!” Eri squirmed, attempting to get out of Emi’s grasp.

Not long after, Emi stopped. “Seriously, when Aizawa wakes up, I’ll let him know about what you’ve done. Even if he doesn’t say it, I know he’s proud of your progress. Very much so.”

Lips pressed together, Midoriya blinked, stunned about what Emi disclosed. Aizawa had always called him the problem child, and now he was told the opposite. Well, not completely, but still, it was a lot to take in.

“Um...I hope...that is okay with you…” Emi muttered, concerned with the young boy. “...I mean...you do cause a lot of trouble for him, but that’s another story.”

Midoriya tensed up, now figuring out that his teacher must have told his wife everything. “Um, no. I was just surprised…”

Gradually, Aizawa opened his eyes. Scanning the room, he glanced back between the three. “Hmm...Midoriya…”

Straightening his posture, Izuku focuses all his attention on his teacher. “Yes?”

“It seems you didn’t break anything, or maybe I missed that,” Aizawa smirks.

“Um, no. I didn’t break anything. The most I may have gotten was a few cuts and bruises...I did get some stitches.” The green-haired boy dictated.

Interrupting them, Emi announced, “I told him about how you feel about his progress so far.” Smiling wide, she leaned into him.

Flushed in the face, Aizawa averted his gaze. “Emi...stop. Don’t tell the students about that…”

Emi rolled her eyes. “Shota, you’re allowed to have feelings in front of your students. You’re not a sociopath without any emotions…” Placing a kiss on his cheek, she pursed her lips. “I love you so much.”

Lowering his head, he mumbled under his breath. “...I...love...you...too.”

Eri sprung out of Emi’s arms into Shota’s within no time. “I LOVE YOU! I THOUGHT YOU DIED!”

Startled, Aizawa froze. “You...what?”

“She bawled when she found out what happened. Of course, she blamed herself for everything. I’ve been trying to convince her she isn’t.”

Examining the two, Aizawa released a deep, hearty breath. “Eri, you were the one who gave me courage during the fight.” He would tell her more, but she was too young for that. “If it wasn’t for you, things could have gotten a lot worse. Thank you…”

“What do you mean...you lost your leg…” Eri uttered, waterworks streaming down her face still.

“Yeah, but lives were saved. You were what got me through it…” Shota reassured her.

Being a little jealous, Emi closed her eyes and got up. She felt ridiculous that she would be a bit upset about this. It was their moment. Eri was part of the reason they gave things a try again and got married. He was everything to her, and so was Eri. Releasing her breath, she grinned, “I’m happy for you two.”

Perceiving that Emi was bitter about what happened, he rolled his eyes. Holding an arm out, Shota necessitated, “Come here, Em. It’s not like you didn’t help me too. It’s just a different situation.”

Hesitant, Emi stood in place, arms crossed. “...I don’t...know...I just thought...that what we’ve gone...through together...meant...a lot…”

“Are you jealous?... Hm ~? You’re jealous of an eight-year-old...I didn’t know you would be that demanding of my love~.” Aizawa curled his lips, teasing her.

Immediately, Emi pouted, stomping her feet. “No! I’m not! Stop saying that! Stop!”

“Fine.” Setting Eri aside, Shota got up, not realizing that he was in a hospital gown. Instantaneously, he fell over. Without his other leg’s support to help him and body being drugged, he wasn’t as quick to his feet as he was anymore.

Emi sprinted over and caught him before another incident happened. “Hey!”

Being caught, Shota wrapped an arm around her neck, leaning forward. “You’re impatient, you know that...I thought I would talk to you later...after everyone left...I didn’t want to pressure you with anyone being here.”

Face turning red, she pressed her lips together, humiliated by her behavior earlier. “...” Walking to the bed, she sets him down and tucks him in. “Alright. I’m sorry...I...I just overthink...worrying that you don’t love me anymore…”

Stroking her back, he pulled her in, not soon after. “Come here…”

Emi shifted her body, climbing onto his lap. “Hold me.” Nuzzling into his chest, she rested her eyes.

“Mr. Aizawa...I...I-I...can leave...I...I don’t want to interrupt, but...I think I...should go…” Midoriya stumbled, uncomfortable with watching his teacher interact with his wife.

Holding his hand up, he disregarded what Izuku said. “Stay. I apologize for what you saw…” Closing his eyes, Aizawa pauses, deliberating how to go about this conversation. “...Listen...problem child...in many degrees, you broke my trust again.” Observing that Midoriya was anxious, he sighed, establishing eye contact with the young boy. “Midoriya, I don’t know how you’re involved with Shigaraki and what he wants. I’ve concluded; however, this war against him turns out, somehow, you’re going to be the savior of all of this.”

Midoriya sat there, taking in everything that his teacher had to address to him. Like usual, it felt like he was receiving a speech about not jumping out on the line when he doesn’t have the training to do so quite yet. Plus, he had been known to break the rules more than once, but this...this was different. When his name was said, he was slightly agitated, considering that he was finally getting expelled. He wasn’t. It was the opposite. A thank you? He wasn’t sure what it was, but it meant the world to hear Aizawa say that. Breaking down, Midoriya’s eyes watered. Tears falling down both cheeks and dripping down onto his clothes and the floor, he exclaimed, getting onto his feet and bowing. “THANK YOU, AIZAWA-SENSEI! I WILL DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO ENSURE THAT. I WILL USE EVERYTHING YOU TAUGHT ME!”

Alarmed, Emi jolts up. “WHAT!?”

She had fallen asleep for those few minutes in Aizawa’s arms as Eri rest next to her. The small girl was still out cold.

“Emi, it’s fine. You’re going to wake up Eri, now…” Aizawa dictated, scrunching his nose.

“Oh...what’s going on then?”

“...I told Midoriya what I thought.” He retorted, averting his gaze.

“AH!” Emi shrieks, embracing her husband. “I’m so proud of you~!”

Red-faced, Aizawa was perplexed about how to carry on the conversation. “Em...not now…”

“It’s alright, Aizawa-sensei. I don’t mind…”

“This is inappropriate behavior for any of my students to see…” Shota announced.

Pressing her lips together, Emi pouted, “Eh. You think anything is inappropriate.”

“That isn’t true.” The jet-black-haired male snarled, scrunching his face.

“Yeah, it is. You won’t let anyone know we’re married. Midoriya only found out because Eri called you Dad and me, mom.”

Butting into their conversation, Midoriya specified, “Well...the whole class has already made speculations or controversies about who you’re with Aizawa-sensei. I was one of the few who thought you and Ms. Joke had something going on…”

Hitting himself in the face, Aizawa slowly dragged his hand down. “Screw my life...the one thing I needed was my students creating rumors about my love life.”

“That’s what you get for hiding everything and being the secretive underground hero.” Emi bopped his nose. “Honestly, I’m not surprised. You did this to yourself.”

“...there are other rumors...too…” Izuku muttered, diverting his eye contact, so he wouldn’t make awkward contact with his teacher.

“HAHAHAHA! SEEEEEE! I TOLD YOU!” The seafoam green-haired teacher blurted, only to calm down within seconds and clarify herself. “Seriously, I’ve told you that with being a UA teacher, especially of your class right now, you’re in the eyes of the media. There are going to be people following you, trying to pick your life apart. I’m sure a few think you’re doing this on purpose to get your students more attention. Of course, they don’t know you, but your class has been broadcasted more than anyone else from UA. Even if you don’t like the truth, people are watching you at this very moment, Shota.”

Jolting out of bed, Shota struggled to get the IVs and medical equipment off of him. “This is why I hate hospitals... it’s too public. There’s no privacy... I’m getting out of here.”

“No, you’re not. You’re staying where you are, Shota Aizawa!” Emi growled, wrestling him back into bed. “You’re not leaving! STOP!”

“I don’t want to be here! Leave me be!” Shota hissed, fighting back.

“STOP!” Eri screamed, hating to see her parents fight.

Instantly both of them stopped. Cocking their heads, they knew she was right. Their daughter and his student should not see them fighting, especially like this.

“I’m sorry, Eri...You shouldn’t see us like this…”

Situating herself, Emi moved onto Shota’s lap. “Here. You’ll stay here...Please...until you’re better. Eri and I will be your bodyguards. Oh. Maybe some of your students and coworkers can get involved too! I’m sure they would love to protect you!” She chirped, pecking his cheek.

Rolling his eyes, Shota huffed, “Hm, I’ll stay here until I don’t need to make use of any of their equipment, alright?”

Crossing her arms, his wife grumbled, “Fine…”

Momentarily, Shota lightened up, “It’s so easy to yank your chain.”

Emi stuck her lip out, disagreeing, “Na-huh.”

Tickling her, he pulled her closer. “Hmm, come here. You’re not leaving.”

“Shota! There’s more students, and they’re watching…” She pointed to the door where there were a few of his students watching.

In the last few days, Aizawa brought Eri along to school. He didn't have anyone to watch her, or it could have been the fact that he didn't trust anyone with the small girl. So it was best to have her where she could easily be watched by the people he knew and trusted with his own life. 

However, there were moments where Aizawa would leave Eri along with Kayama. He had known her since high school, plus she was a woman. That had to help Eri understand herself better by interacting with another female. The only thing that he questioned about having Eri spend time with Kayama was that the grown female could be somewhat promiscuous. He doubted she would share anything with the small girl, but what if Eri disclosed anything that he didn't want to be known? 

-----

Seated at a table, Eri softly smiled. On the table, she had plain white paper and crayons. Using every color she could, she created a picture with two adults and herself. She was in the middle, holding both of the adults' hands.

Approaching Eri, Nemuri hugged the small girl from behind. "Hey, how are you doing, Eri?" Lowering her head, she noticed the drawing Eri made. "What did you make?" 

"I made a picture!" Eri cried, finishing up a few more details. 

"Who's that?" She points to a female adult in the picture. 

Taking a moment to glance where Nemuri was pointing, Eri chirped, "That's Miss Fukukado. She's my favorite!" 

Widening her eyes, Nemuri was stunned at the small girl's words. "What? How do you know her?" 

"Mr. Aizawa and I met her at the pet store. Then we went on a date...Mr. Aizawa doesn't like that term, though." 

Lips instantly curling, Nemuri pulled a chair out and sat next to Eri. "So...what makes you think they're dating?" 

"...I remember Mirio said something about how a woman and man get together or something… I thought...I thought that was it." Eri stumbled, sticking out her lips, deep in thought. 

"Oh, he could be with another man, or she could be with a woman." Nemuri specified, assuming that she should determine more. 

Confused, Eri tilted her head, not understanding exactly what she meant. "What?" 

"Miss Fukukado could date a woman, or Mr. Aizawa could date a man. It's not just women dating men." The thirty-two-year-old explained. 

"Oh. That's weird." 

From what Nemuri could gather, Aizawa didn't talk about these kinds of things with Eri. Figures. "Why is it weird? If they're happy, then it doesn't matter, right?" 

Eri thinks about it for a moment, smiles, and nods. "Oh, okay!" 

------

Arriving with Eri into the teacher's lounge, Nemuri stopped by Shota's desk and held up the picture that the small girl had created. "Look what Eri made." She smirked. 

Lifting his chin, he turned his focus from his desk to the picture. Immediately when Shota saw a seafoam green-haired woman, he was screwed. Looking up at Nemuri, he pressed his lips together and said nothing. Out of everyone, she was the last person he wanted to know about this. 

"So, what is this about? You haven't told anyone about this. Why is that, Shota?" Nemuri questioned.

Narrowing his eyes, Shota growled, "I would rather not." 

Eri stood beside Nemuri. From her perspective, she didn't understand why Aizawa was hiding anything. 

Yamada turned in surprise, Nemuri and Eri were standing next to Aizawa. Instinctively, he approached Shota's desk, expecting to be involved in the conversation.

"What is going on here?" He glances back and forth at Eri and Nemuri. "Did something bad happen?"

Eri bluntly answered, not thinking or realizing that Shota didn't want anyone to know. "Aizawa and Miss Emi are dating." Nemuri chuckled at the girl's response.

"What the...? Is that true, Sho ?!" Yamada questioned with a huge smile. It was what he least expected, but overall, it was humorous. "So you've been hunting a mommy, huh?"

Shota ignored the male, disgusted that he had to deal with any of this. Eri had no clue what was going on. "Hunting a mommy?"

"Oh yeah...  Well ... forget it, Eri." He said smiling, possibly Eri did not see Eraser as a father figure, at least he and Nemuri could see it like that.

Toshinori, who heard Mic's words, came up clearing his throat. "Sorry, but we shouldn't interfere with the relationship between young Aizawa and Ms. Joke. It is a lack of respect." Turning to see Aizawa, he smiled strangely. "Don't worry, Aizawa, if you want to be happy with the young lady, you are more than free to be. I am proud that you have made little Eri part of your dates, after all, she needs parental figures."

Still not amused, Shota pressed his lips together and glared at all of them. He was annoyed at all of them. It wasn't a date. Or that's what he claimed. "It wasn't a date. It was us hanging out with Ms. Joke." He huffed, flaring his nostrils as he revolved his chair some. 

"Hm, Eri told me it was a date. I trust her more than I do you, Eraser." Nemuri smirked, fond of how easily irritable Shota was. 

"You said something about a date..." Eri muttered, starting to believe she was doing something wrong.

"Come on, Mic, Midnight, you're making it sound like the girl has done something wrong. Perhaps, the young Aizawa wanted to keep this relationship a secret, you know how reserved he is." Yagi replied, uncomfortable by the accusations they were making as they used Eri as a shield against Aizawa.

"All Might is right," Hizashi replied before Toshinori was relieved that they started being reasonable, Mic continued. "Eri needs parental figures. Now Eraser has to reconsider Joke's proposals and go out with her." 

Furrowing his brows, he never considered her proposals to be legitimate. "Reconsider? Were they not a joke? What are you talking about?" He questioned, not understanding why they had to continue harping him on this. 

Nemuri shrugged, not caring what anyone thought. "You and Emi should go out tonight. It's Friday. Seriously. Go, we'll watch Eri! You need someone, and Eri needs a mother figure so much. I know that you don't want it to be me either." He chuckled.

"It's true, you can go out with Emi. Eri can stay with us." Hizashi smirked as he placed his hand on Eri's head. "I'm sure Emi wouldn't mind." 

"I like Miss Emi. She's nice." Eri chirped. 

"Why do you all care. It's not your decision." Shota grumbled, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"So Nemuri and I will take care of Eri, and you can go out with that pretty lady." Mic pointed a thumb up at Nemuri. "Don't worry about us. We're more than qualified to watch Eri." 

Questioning everything, Aizawa squinted at both of them. "Why should I trust you? You're forcing me to do something I don't want to. I don't want to go out with Joke. Leave me be." 

"GO ON A DATE!" Eri whined, wanting whatever that meant to happen. It sounded like a good idea, so she went with it.

Hizashi looked surprised at little Eri, whistled in surprise, and shifted his eyes to Aizawa. Not knowing what to say, he just smiled nervously.

Toshinori crossed his arms and broke that awkward silence. "Since Eri has proposed it, what is your response, Young Aizawa?"

Blinking, he glared at all of them. "I hate all of you at the moment." Getting up from his chair, he went out the door, without pushing it in or grabbing his items. 

"Where is he going?" Eri asked. 

"Who knows." Nemuri retorted, watching as Aizawa left the conversation.

"Don't worry, little Eri, he doesn't hate you, he's just a bitter tsundere." Mic winked at the little girl. "Tonight we will see movies like 'My neighbor Totoro.' This way, we will remember Aizawa vs. his animated version." 

"What's a tsundere?" Eri turned around, wondering what that word meant. "What's My Neighbor Totoro?" 

Aizawa went off, not wanting to do anything than what his supposed friends wanted him to do. 

Nemuri had a different idea for him. "I'm going to message Emi and tell her to come to Aizawa's. He has something he wants to talk to her about...Do you think that will work?"

Hizashi thought for a moment and nodded. "Possibly, but you must make your writing similar to Aizawa's. It must be convincing."

"You do it. You're attached to him practically!" Nemuri huffed. She handed him her phone. "Here...could we do it with my phone...?"

"I think.  If this doesn't work, we can say goodbye to our retirement." The blonde took the phone and started typing a message to the green-haired woman. He had her number stored for a situation like this.

'Hello, Joke. I'm sorry to send this message so suddenly, but before you read it, I must warn you not to make the wrong ideas. I'm inviting you to see Eri again. I don't understand how, but she seems to appreciate you and has not stopped requesting your presence. Anyway, if you don't want to come, I can understand it, don't feel obliged to visit us.'

Before sending it, the blonde showed the phone to Nemuri. "Do you find it convincing?"

Taking the phone, she quickly looked it over and nodded, "Yeah...send that. Eri won't be there, though." She dictated, not knowing whether or not if this would make everything more complicated.

Eri cocked her head, unsure if she was actually going to spend time with Emi. "Am I seeing Miss Emi?"

"No, you'll be staying with us." Nemuri retorted.

----

Shota made his way to his apartment.  Throughout his walk, he tried to meditate all the about the conversation that all started over a drawing.  It wasn't fair to blame Eri for misinterpreting things. Still, he didn't know why it was necessary to explain his relationship with the green-haired heroine.

He grunted, annoyed at the thought of Hizashi's words.  Reconsider?  Fukukado was just joking about dating him, wasn’t she? He didn't know the reasons why a woman like Fukukado Emi wanted to date someone like him. 

Busy packing things, he heard a knock on the door, realizing that someone was visiting him pretty late. "I'm not expecting anyone...and it's late. What the hell." He groaned as he made his way to the door. Opening the door, he frowned, confused, yet stunned. "J-Joke?"

----

Receiving the message from Nemuri, she was immensely confused about how it was from Eraser, but it was okay. She put on a floral dress, white flats, and her hair into a bun, hoping she would look alright for him. It felt nice getting dressed up. She still didn't know what Shota would wear, but that was alright. 

Going to his home, it took thirty minutes along with public transportation to help. Arriving at his door, she knocked and waited for him to answer. It wasn't until she saw his reaction that she was confused. Why was he so stunned to see her? Did he not plan this? 

"Um, yes? We're going on a date...right?"

"Huh? A date?" He asked, confused about the fact she was here. Shota scratched his cheek and growled.  Nemuri and Hizashi may have gotten away with it now, but he needed to tell her. He looks her up and down, she was beautiful. Even thinking about it seemed awkward. "Can we talk about this date?"

Nodding, Emi wasn't sure what to do. She was hoping that he wouldn't just drop their date. Heck, maybe that wasn't what he expected at all. So many thoughts were going through her head, she didn't know what to do about them.

He walked to the living room, waiting for the woman to take a seat.  He felt quite uncomfortable sitting next to her.  He was ashamed to cancel Emi's plans.  Wait.  He really hadn't planned any of this, why does he care about everything?  He folded his arms and sighed.

"I'm sorry you came all the way here...I guess Nemuri and Hizashi set this all up. Lately, they don't stop bothering with the matter after Eri made a drawing of the three of us."

Slipping off her shoes, she wandered over to the couch, sitting next to him. It was strange, but she dealt with it. What were they doing? Was he trying to hint at something? 

Listening to him explain what happened, she frowned. "Oh...I should have known...I don't know why I got dressed for nothing." Getting up, she battled the tears forming in her eyes.

"Wait, Joke. " He violently clasped her arm. Realizing this, Shota released her immediately. "I-I'm sorry, I shouldn't have done it that way." He cleared his throat and continued. "I'm sorry they fooled you... I feel guilty that you bothered to come all the way here ... and dressed like this. I'm not saying you look bad...you look beautiful...I-I mean...you look good." He confessed, scratching the back of his neck. 

Emi widened her eyes. Turning around, she locked her eyes on Aizawa's grasp. "What..W-What are you doing...?" She blushed, startled about everything that had just happened. "Um...thanks." 

"Whatever, Joke.  I know I'm not dressed as formally as you are, but if you like I can reward you...Would you like to date me?  You know, as ’friends,’ not as ... lovers or something like that." He scratched his cheek and shifted his gaze to the living room wall. "And what do you say?  Do you want to go out or not?"

Cocking her head, she struggled to understand what he wanted. "Hm? What...what do you, mean...as friends? There is no dating as friends...so I don't know what you're talking about." His words about rewarding her bothered her, too, but she wouldn't think about it too much. "We...can go out, but I don't want it as friends, Shota. I'm sorry." she sighed.

"So ... how would you like to go out with me?" He asked, creasing his forehead. He felt that Joke would ask for a date as lovers. Maybe he could ask her the truth and resolve his doubts once and for all?  Does she really have feelings for him?  

Then again, he wasn't ready to feel like a complete moron. Having rejected his feelings for so long could make him want to hide his head in the ground after knowing that she was telling the truth.  Perhaps after knowing the truth, he could be named the most naive of the year.

"Well, boyfriend, girlfriend. That's what it would be. It wouldn't have to be sexual, but it would get there; eventually, I suppose...that is if you want it." She sighed. Swiveling around, she bowed her head. "I'm pushing you into too much... I'm sorry...I didn't mean for any of this... it's probably too much... I'll just go back home."

"Wait, Joke.  I have something important to ask...I hope this doesn't bother you, but I was never immersed in this type of relationship. I don't know exactly how to go about this, but I will try." He sighed, "I think I assumed for too long that this was all a joke... I apologize...Joke, I ... I have known you for years, I consider you an annoying and noisy person, but in the same way, I think you are someone .. special.  You are positive, reliable, and have an admirable attitude. And... your physical qualities." He clears his throat, and his cheeks blush slightly. "You are ... you have a beautiful hair color ... your eyes ... are ... they have a very nice color .... tch, in a few words ... I find you attractive, that's why...I want to know what it is you feel for me? What do you see in me?" 

Fluttering her lashes, she was stunned by his words. It was absurd to think that he actually wanted her. Found her attractive. What? It perplexed her mind. "I...I find you attractive too. You're very caring, sensitive...in your own way, you speak your mind, you have a reason for everything. I know that you will always do things no matter the situation out of your heart's goodness.

"So ... it was true." He covers his face. He takes a seat on the couch. "Sorry, I didn't know how to recognize it, I feel like a complete asshole, Joke.  To think that all this time, I believed that you were joking with me about these feelings makes me feel ashamed..." 

Fluttering her lashes, her face flushed. "It's alright. You didn't know...I didn't say I was serious either...I played it off as a joke. So it's fair." She dictated.

"I... don't know what to say... Never ... huh ...n-never has anyone noticed me, not like that. It's the first time a girl liked me." He verbalized with his face hidden. He avoided making eye contact with her at all costs that she saw his blushing face. He pressed his lips together and pouts repeatedly.

Giggling, Emi argued, "I always thought you had admirers. People seem to like you from what I can tell from the media. They think you're cute, especially with the UA scandal. I'm...I think they ship you with Hizashi too if you know what that means." She covers her mouth, knowing he wouldn't appreciate her making a joke of it somewhat. "But seriously, you need more confidence in yourself, Shota."

"Huh?  Hizashi?  That idiot is just a friend, maybe just a coworker... I think ... I'm just avoiding the subject. As for combat, I have confidence in my abilities. However, when we talk about things about love relationships, I am a disaster... I don't have the slightest idea of ​​how to talk to girls, not that way...I shouldn't have said that..." He lays his head on the back of the couch, staring at the ceiling. "Anyway... Joke ... do you really find something as pathetic as this... attractive? " He asked.

Rolling her eyes, she sits on him. "You're not unattractive. Not pathetic, not uncaring or anything that would break a woman's heart." She smiled, caressing his face. "Thank you for this...admitting it or whatever you want to call this moment."

He carefully watched the woman sitting on his lap.

"It's... admirable that you have enough confidence to do something like this." Carefully, he placed his hand on Emi's waist.

Blushing, she gazed into his eyes. "Yeah...should we go out and do something, or are you going to sit there and not want to do anything with this woman?" She chuckled.

"Ah, well ...I think....we can go out together...  But I would need you to get off my lap." He replied, embarrassed. His hand gripped the woman's waist tightly. He could feel something soft as his hand lowered a little, gently squeezing.

Blushing, she wasn't sure what he was trying to do, but she got up. She complied with what he wanted and took his hand, helping him up. "I'll let you pick where we go!"

He began to follow the woman. He did not find himself looking like going to a fancy restaurant, nor did he like it, the food was unpleasant and at the same time very expensive. "I usually eat fast food, I suppose it is not ... romantic." He scratched his scruff and lowered his gaze to the floor.

Laughing, she smiled, "Fast food? What about a bar...or a nice family-owned restaurant. It can't be hard." Fukukado assured him, thinking that it wouldn't be hard to find something they would both agree on. 

When leaving the house, he looked askance at the woman.  What should he do?  Take her by the hand?  Surround her with your arm?  He had no experience, trying to remember how little he knew and how little he witnessed of the relationships he was surrounded by at the academy.. The girls walked, taking the hand of their boyfriend.  Then, he saw it as something uncomfortable, this time, he felt a strange desire to take Emi's hand and intertwined his fingers.  She watched Emi's hand brush the fabric of her dress, they were small and seemed soft compared to his enormous, rough hands.

Grabbing her shoes as they went out the door, she followed beside him as they went out. It was nice. She enjoyed all of it. Walking beside him compared to having him stare straight compared to now. She had caught him glancing at her or what it seemed to be, overthinking. It was cute. She enjoyed all of it; Yet, she wasn't sure if he did.

He looked away and moved his hand in search of interlacing his hand or fingers with the woman.  He felt nervous, why?  He had known Emi for a long time, why did he feel different now? "Can I hold your hand?" He asked permission before taking Emi's hand; Shota felt that if he didn't do it this way, he would be disrespectful.

Feeling his fingers, she didn't know what he wanted initially, and then he asked, making her turn red. Turning to face him, she nodded. "Yeah." Holding her hand out, she waited for him to take it as she reached out for his.

Shota turned to see Emi, looked at her hand, and then sighed. He took Emi's hand abruptly, being awkward about the whole thing. "So ... what would we be starting from now?"

"What do you mean?" She asked, not understanding what he meant. "Restaurant, us? I'm not sure what you're talking about."

"I'm talking about us, Joke.  What are we? I'm not sure what I should call you, should I keep calling you Joke?  We have long called each other by our hero name, will it be different now?  I ask again, what is it that we are? I'm curious."

"Boyfriend, girlfriend, if you want...so we call each other that." Covering her mouth, she waited for him to question everything. Unable to hide it, she broke out in laughter. "No. But I'm thinking Emi. Shota. Our first names. Nothing special." She grinned.

"Hmmm ... I'm embarrassed to call you by your name, but I can try."

Upon arriving at the restaurant, he sat in front of the woman. He felt ashamed to sit so close to her. Reading the menu, he turned to see Emi.  He was trying to be stealthy, yet he was far from being so.  Obviously, he was staring at the green-haired girl.

"Try..." She smiled, trying to be assuring. Entering the restaurant, she sat across from him. It was nice. She was really hoping that they would be able to have an enjoyable time here. As far as she was concerned, they would unless if he told her that he didn't want to do this anymore.

"What would you like to eat, Eh ... Emi?" He responded by trying to have a polite tone in his voice, however, from the effort of pronouncing Emi's name, he made a remarkable emphasis in pronouncing her name.

Giggling, she pointed to the menu. "I was thinking of the sashimi. What about you?" She hummed, putting down her menu. "I really like it. Have you been here before?"

"I appreciate you doing this. I was a little nervous that nothing was going to happen when you talked about Nemuri and Mic...and how you said you didn't know about me liking you..."

"Well, this ... I think your company is nice... Mic and Nemuri suggested I invite you out.  All thanks to Eri's drawing, she drew herself, you and me." He blushed, "They think I'm looking for a mom for Eri."

Flushed, she coos, "Are you looking for a mother for Eri?" Amused by Mic and Nemuri's behavior, she did have to say she was thankful that they did go ahead and do something like this.

"Yes.  They believe that I would be the father figure.  I only take care of Eri because I'm the only one who can nullify her power. I doubt she sees me that way, you know, like a father.  I don't think I'm a good father either, I didn't have the best example, being honest." He admits, bowing his head in shame. 

Frowning, she sighed, "Why do you feel that way? I bet you're super caring and give her everything she needs. Why don't you think you're better than that? Unless someone has said something or you noticed something about her behavior, I don't think you have to worry otherwise." She assured him.

"No matter what I say, she apparently doesn't feel comfortable with me. She prefers the company of Hizashi or Nemuri. Perhaps because they are more pleasant in appearance and attitude..." He rests the beer mug on his lips and begins to drink. Setting it down, he huffs. "I can't find a way to approach Eri the way others do.  She only saw you for a moment, and now she doesn't stop thinking about you. Being honest, I understand her admiration for you. You're a cute and charismatic girl with a beautiful smile; You have a very special charm to inspire confidence and security. Your smile is part of that charm.

Cocking her head, she brought up the picture. "Did...Did you say that she drew a picture of us...if she did that...she thinks of you as more, Shota. There as to be a reason for all of this. I promise you." Placing a hand on top of his, she was really hoping he would understand what she was was talking about. "Seriously, I think she just knows you are different than  Mic and Nemuri. She still loves you."

He looked at his hand and turned to see Emi. He drank more beer. Placing the mug on the table, he couldn't help but pout.  He turned to see Emi again. Staring at her, his face was red. Possibly he was one more jar away from starting to get drunk. "Emi, would you give me permission to kiss you?"

Widening her eyes, she blushed. "Um...I guess...right now? Shouldn't we wait until we leave?" She uttered, embarrassed about anyone hearing him, or seeing them kiss in the middle of the restaurant. "That was really sudden too..."

"So... do you want to go? I don't think I can eat another bite." He sighed and looked at Emi. "Wait ... were you surprised? Why? Didn't you want that?  How did you plan to marry me without kissing me before?

Gagging on her food, she blushed. Quickly she takes a drink of water and sets it down. "What the hell... I'm not just doing this super-fast, Shota. Commitment...it scares me. A lot. I'm sorry...I want to kiss you later tonight...you know, you didn't even have to ask."

"I'm just...stunned that you're attracted to me...I've never considered us before...that's a lie, but I didn't think there was any hope." 

Speechless, Emi was stunned by his...words. What was this? What the heck? What was she supposed to do? React to this. "Um...what...what do you want to say?" She muttered, feeling like she was still stunned at Shota's words.

"My answer...about us..." He nervously smiled. Biting his bottom lip, he slowly gave her his cringeworthy grin. 

Pressing her lips together, she contemplated everything. Why was Aizawa like this all of a sudden? She didn't get it. What was happening? "Um...may be yes? You just said...really, Sho...you're confusing me...what the hell is going through your head right now..."

"...I don't understand you, Emi.  I try ... to be affectionate with you, then you refuse to reciprocate. "He leaned back in his chair and sighed." I don't understand how I should act for you. I want to kiss you, and you reject me. I want to marry you, and you reject me. Please, what do you want from me?"

Lip trembling, she bowed her head, tearing up. "...I do want to do all of that. I don't want to do it in the restaurant...with everyone looking...I want to be able to relax." She mumbled, feeling like she was overbearing.

"Huh? Well, can we go home then? Don't get me wrong, the date amuses me.  But I think right now I want to be alone with you..." He dictated, unable to make eye contact with her, reacting the way she was. 

Blushing, she nodded. "Oh...okay..." It was a lot to take in. He actually wanted to do everything she dreamed of even more...perhaps…

He took his phone and wallet and stood up.  He turned to see Emi and rushed to take her hand. "Let's go now." He announced, curling the corners of his mouth.

Taking his hand, she followed him. She was surprised to see him enthused about getting out of there and holding her hand.

The streets were almost empty.  Businesses were beginning to close.  What time was it? He had no clue. He just wanted to get home. Holding Emi's hand, he cocked his head, looking at her blushing face and with an expression of confusion. "Are you okay?"

Scanning everything, she nodded, "Yeah. I'm fine. No worries. I'm just thinking is all." She hummed back, not thinking it was a big deal to fuss about any of this.

"If you don't feel comfortable, we can save this for another day." He replied, somewhat discouraged. Maybe he was rushing all of this. The alcohol helped him to have more confidence than he needed. Sadly, it left him in an anxious state. Maybe Emi didn't want this.

"No. We can do this, dont worry." She assured him, rubbing his hand with her thumb. "It'll be fine. Alright?"

"I think I'm pushing too hard.  I just can't be calm.  I feel very anxious." He sighed deeply. 

Biting her lip, she stopped. "Why are you so anxious...Shota...please don't feel anxious. I'd love to do anything I can to help you."

"I want to be with you. Sleep with you. Kiss you. Have you as my wife... But, I don't know exactly what you would let me do first..." 

"Oh?" She turned away, feeling embarrassed about the whole thing.

"Emi, did I say something wrong?  Why can't you look at me?" He slid his hands around the waist of the green-haired woman, resting his chin on her shoulder.

"I do want this... I'm just really confused. I don't get what's going on, Shota. I'm sorry..." She held him close, wondering if he would understand.

"In what way do you want to see me, Emi?" He replied as he held the woman in his arms

Tearing up, she felt she was pissing him off. "Shota...I want to be your wife... I'm just nervous..."

"I get it.  Maybe we should slow down about this relationship.  I mean, I could barely confirm that you really have feelings for me, and I already want to make you mine... That isn't right..." He admitted. Taking Emi's hand, he muttered, "Okay, let's go home. You can stay over in my apartment.  I will use my sleeping bag, don't worry." 

Blushing, she shifted her attention to what was around them. "Hm. Have you ever had sex? I'm surprised you're so horny..." She chuckled, still amused by his behavior. "If you want...we could just cuddle. That couldn't hurt, right?" She hummed, seeing nothing wrong with it.

"I have not had sex, much less have I "played" with my body.  I remained focused on my studies and my work..." Shota mumbled, embarrassed about the whole thing. 

Furrowing her brows, she pushes herself up and attempts to meet his lips. "Kiss me." She demanded not caring about what he thought. He said he wanted it before, so why not now?

Frozen, he was baffled by her sudden words. She didn't want this before, but now she did? It didn't add up. "Em..." 

Impatient, she jumped up, wrapping her legs around his waist. Seconds later, she pressed her lips against his. Instantly, she felt the sparks set off. She had never felt this way with anyone. Why was that? 

Aizawa stood there, stunned over the whole thing. What was this? He had never kissed anyone, and here they were. All of it was amazing. Blissful. Enticing. He wanted more of this. Kissing back, placing his arms around her, deepening their passionate moment. 

Emi loved every moment of it too. Pressing her body against his, she brought as much affection as she could. She really wanted this, and for the time being, she needed to trust him even if it was a difficult thing to do. 

Breaking away, Shota gasped. That was the best kiss he had ever had. Even though it was his first, he needed more. He yearned for her. "Emi...I want you." 

After confessing to Shota about their newest battle together, Emi attempted to keep their relationship healthy. She perceived it was a difficult time for both of them. However, she couldn’t let go of this baby. It was a life, even if it was an inconvenient time.

Patiently sitting in the waiting room, Emi held Shota’s hand tightly. She was so nervous. She had never been pregnant before. What was it like? What if something went wrong? She couldn’t convince herself that everything would be alright.

“You need to relax, Emi. It’s not good that you stress. Everything will be fine.” It sounded convincing, but deep down, he felt very insecure.

“How do you know that?” She asks, still super unsure about their entire situation.

“I’m just saying everything will be fine; try to calm you down.” He sighs and strokes Emi’s hand.

“... I’m just so nervous, Shota...what if the government finds out...what then?” Her eyes glossy with worry.

“I don’t know, Emi. This is quite difficult. Damn it, Emi, why did you make me agree to this?” he sighs, “I’m not trying to blame you, it’s just that I think things will only go against us.”

She tears up, burying her face in her hands, unable to hide the fear and pain that this situation brought against them.

A male nurse came out of a door, calling Emi’s name. “Emi Aizawa.”

The name sent chills up and down her spine. She still couldn’t believe that Shota was all hers; It felt too good to be true.

Walking past the door, she found the male beside a scale. Stepping on it, she covers her mouth; She went from 115 to 125. “I’m fat...”

“You are not fat.” He reassured her, wanting to show he cared about her concerns.” "During pregnancy, you will gain weight, it is entirely normal, Emi.

Looking down at her stomach, she pouts, “Don’t tell me what I’m not. It’s true...”

"Emi, you have a baby growing inside you, your stomach will grow, but later you will be the same as before." He responds as he pats the woman on the shoulders.

Ignoring what Emi had said, the nurse takes her to a room. Seating themselves on a rolling stool, he picked up a tablet and brought up through a few concerns.

Emi sat beside him and couldn't stop worrying about any tests that she would have to take.

"You feel alright? Stay calm; I will be with you no matter what happens." The man sighs and timidly approaches Emi to kiss her forehead, somewhat hastily since the nurse could see him.

Tapping his screen, the nurse asks some questions that weren’t difficult to answer. Then he begins talking about a blood test. Emi wasn’t alright with that.

“Shotaaaa, I don’t want them to take my blood!” She began crying. She was overly emotional and didn’t want anything to deal with any of this.

“What blood type are the two of you? Negative or positive?”

"Ahhh, Emi, calm down. You’ll be fine. " He replies while holding the woman. "I’m not going to leave you alone." He looks at the nurse, trying not to smile. "I guess we are both positive.

“Alright. That makes it easier for you.”

“What would happen if we weren’t the same?” Emi asks, not knowing.

“Your body would fight against the orgasm growing in your body if we didn’t give you a shot. We don’t have to do that.”

“...” Emi was speechless and wanted to get out of here. She didn’t think that was hard to ask.

"You just have to calm down, Emi. It is only an injection necessary for your well-being and that of the baby. Shota frowns and presses his lips together, glancing at Emi and shrugging. "It's your decision, Emi.  I know I am your partner but let’s be honest; I will not be carrying the baby for 9 months and possibly have problems due to childbirth. I’m just trying to give a choice on what you decide about your body."

Bursting out in tears, she pushes herself off of Shota. “You’re just as bad as everyone else! How could you say that! Do you want to take away this life! I’m not going to murder the baby!”

Looking away, the nurse did his best to stay out of their decision.

"In that case, please, let them give you the injection, Emi. It is for your own good and that of the baby." He grabs Emi and holds her firmly on his lap, trying to withstrain her.

“It isn’t the one we were talking about earlier...about the blood types. Everyone gets this shot.”

Nodding, she got up and proceeded. “Alright...”

"Will I be able to stay with her while she is injected?" He asks while holding Emi's hand. "Now, I’m the one who’s nervous."

“She’ll be fine. And it’ll be fine with you here. It is just like a normal shot.”

Sighing, Emi felt a sense of relief. “That’s not bad.”

Nodding, the nurse, somewhat relieved. He was really going to hate explaining anything more to her and having her panic. “Man, would you get on the table for me... it’s time for your ultrasound.”

Glancing at Shota, Emi gulps and gets onto her feet. She was so nervous about meeting her baby. What happened if she wasn’t a good mom? She would hate herself forever for that. She was still scarred from what her parents did to her growing up. She was rather confident that her siblings could say the same. Why does life have to be so complicated? Was this what it was meant to be? It brought her to tears, but she had to do this for herself. For those she loved. Her future.

Leaning her head back, she breathes in and then out, trying to soothe her nerves as the man squeezes goop onto her stomach. “Hm…” She twitches, hating how cold it was. “...why does it have to be so cold?..” She whines.

Taking her hand, Shota intertwines his fingers with hers. “It will be alright, Em. Keep taking deep breaths and relax. I’ll stay right here.”

Lifting her chin, she gazes into his eyes. “Thanks. I appreciate everything you do.”

Nodding, he watches the monitor. The thought of getting to see his offspring for the first time was exhilarating, and to have it with the woman he loved made it all so much more.

Gliding the transducer on Emi’s stomach, the technician points to the screen. “There they are. There is your baby.”

Covering his mouth, Shota’s eyes grew glossy. It was an emotional time for him. They were forced to stay in the U.S. He abandoned his class to stay with his wife. Eri was in another part of the country. His friends knew nothing while they were halfway around the world. And now, he was watching an ultrasound of their child that they had not planned. If he remembered correctly, they had used protection every time. How could that happen then? One of the condoms had to have a hole in it, but then...he recalled the night they both got drunk. That night they had sex without protection. Of course, the one time they did it, that was when it happened. It was those situations that anything could go wrong, even the worst-case scenario.

Perceiving something was off, Emi raises a hand to his face. “Love, what’s wrong?”

Shota exhales, exhausted from their continual adversities.

Immediately, Emi knew something was wrong. She knew that sigh - it meant he was flustered. Tears forming in her eyes, she soon bawls. “I...I knew that...t-this was too much...you need to l-leave me, Shota...you shouldn’t...have done this...go back to UA…”

Sitting there quietly, Shota raises his head toward the technician. “Um...is there anything else for us to discuss?”

“About how your baby is doing, any concerns?”

“How are they?” The black-haired man asks, desiring to get this appointment over with, so he could discuss with Emi for the millionth time that he was going nowhere.

“They’re healthy as of now. If you listen to your doctor’s instructions, you should be set. Of course, it doesn’t always prevent the baby from developing something. Still, a majority of the time there is nothing to worry about.”

Getting up, Shota situates Emi’s clothes and helps her onto her feet. “Let’s go. I don’t want to argue here.”

“I wasn’t arguing! I was telling it how it is! That is what you want!” Emi yanks her hand away from him. Turning to the technician, she bowed, “May I have the baby’s picture?”

“Yeah, we’ll send it to your email registered with us.”

“Oh.” The young woman mutters, disappointed that she couldn’t extend this visit for a few minutes longer. This was supposed to be one of the happiest moments of their lives, yet they were bickering about it. That hurt immensely. All she wanted was to live quietly, alone with the love of her life, but she couldn’t even have that. She recognized how devastating all of this was for Shota to have his life torn apart because of her; that wasn’t fair. He didn’t deserve this.

Taking her by the waist, Shota had very little patience. Lowering his head, he whispers in her ear, “Emi, you’re going to cooperate until we get home. We’re still undercover. I can’t have you exposing us because of a meltdown.”

Her expression drops. Why would he say that? That hurt so much more than he intended it to. Tears flowing down her cheeks, she sniffles, “Oh-h...o-ok…”

Rolling his eyes, he turns his attention to the technician. “Thank you. We’re very thankful.” Helping Emi up, he bows after. Emi soon joins him.

Without taking his hand, Emi wanders off. She wasn’t taking this attitude from him, not today. Actually, she was showing attitude, but she was not going to confess that, not now. “Screw you!” She grumbles, running away.

“Em! What the hell! Stop this! Seriously, you’re acting like a two-year-old! You’re bringing us shame!” Shota scowls, scruffing his nose in disgust. Sprinting after her, he catches her outside the door of the ultrasound room, taking hold of her wrist. Yanking her hand, he grunts, “Stop acting like a brat! Dammit, Emi!”

Gasping, Emi struggles to get free. She wanted nothing to do with this man if he would make her feel like crap for standing up for their family. For them. “Fuck you!” Making use of her free hand, she swung at his face, missing.

Tired of the woman’s antics, he craftily picks her up, carrying her bridal style. Usually, he would have swung her over his shoulder, but that was difficult with her bearing their child. “Emi, be quiet. I’m losing my patience. I can’t handle you being like this...especially in public...please, I’m losing it.”

“LET ME GO!” She yells. Causing an uproar, everyone around them in the waiting room stares.

“Sorry. My wife is having a rough day.” Shota apologizes. Face growing red, he mutters loud enough for Emi to hear. “Stop, you’re embarrassing us. If we had any privacy before, there is no chance of that being true anymore…”

Emi activates her quirk, resulting in Shota breaking out in laughter.

It wasn’t long that he erases her quirk. Perceiving that Emi was planning on escaping, he shoots her a deadly glare. “Woman, this is your last chance. You are driving me mad and disgracing us and the two countries we’re representing.”

“HELP! HELP! SOMEONE! PLEASE!” Emi screamed at the top of her lungs. Bringing security over, Emi sobs, desiring to get away from all of this. She wanted to be home with her husband and Eri. She needed life to be normal again, but that wasn’t possible. Not for them.

“Ma’am, you’re making the guests feel uncomfortable.”

Emi soon began kicking and punching Shota. Attempting to get out of his arms, she instead got taken into another room, her husband carrying her.

Being placed on the ground, Emi guns it to the door. All she desired was having her sweet freedom back. Jiggling the door handle, she finds herself unsuccessful. “LET ME OUT OF HERE! I HAVE TO GET OUT! PLEASE! YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND!”

“Actually, we do.” A voice retorts.

Eyes shooting open, Emi falls on her knees. She recognizes that voice. It could only be one person, but how? How did they find her? Cocking her head, she mumbled, “How? How did you find us?”

“Your husband.”

Giving Shota the stink eye, she fights the tears forming in her eyes. “H-H...how could you?..”

“You were causing a scene, Em...I...I really didn’t want to, but with you being pregnant...I couldn’t risk having you get captured or discovered…” Shota frowns, avoiding all eye contact.

“... you... I...I-I’ve lost all trust in you...I...I can’t believe you did this.”

“Em, I was only protecting you...you were acting berzerk... I’ve... I’ve never seen you like that.”

Lip quivering, Emi pushes herself onto her feet. “FUCK YOU, SHOTA AIZAWA!” She barks, slamming her fist into his face.

Dodging her punch, he spins around her and picks her up.

“Let go of me! Let me go! Shota, why are you doing this to me!”

Setting her on the bed, a female nurse aids Shota in strapping her to the bed frame. “I’m sorry, Em...I understand if you don’t trust me…” Fixing her bed, he fluffs her pillow and gently set her head down. Placing a hand on her face, his thumb caresses her cheek. “Emi, I love you so much...it doesn’t look like it right now to you, but I’m doing this for the two of us...it was the only logical thing to do with you acting the way you were...I know you have been dealing with a lot lately, but...I need you to be safe...I couldn’t imagine my life if anything happened to you…” He clarifies, kissing her forehead. “I’ll stay here with you for a few days. The doctors are going to be doing a few tests on you, checking why you’re behaving this way.”

“NO! Don’t let them do this, Shota! You’re allowing me to be their test subject! Shota...please...please, don’t let them do this! I don’t want them to read my head...I can’t! They’re more dangerous than the ones we’re spying on!” Emi hollers, struggling against the restraints.

“Mrs. Aizawa, please, be assured that you’re safe here. There is no reason why you should be convinced of us harming you.” Nezu reassures her.

“Screw you! You brought us into this whole mess! I should have never trusted you! The only reason I did this was for my own pride! To feel good…” Bowing her head, she shakes her head in disgust. She ought to be ashamed of herself. She had caused so much turmoil for herself and loved ones - all because she wanted to feel good enough.

Glancing back and forth between Nezu and Emi, Shota sits along her bed. Leaning forward, he whispers, “Emi, why are you so anxious... what’s going on? I know Nezu can’t be trusted exactly, but...I know he wouldn’t harm you.”

Even with those words, everything in Emi screamed that staying with Nezu would lead to havoc. Their demise. Her intuition told her that being alone with him would lead to more issues. So many more. He had the power to do anything he wanted to her. “...please...please, don’t leave me...I...I don’t trust him...I...please...Shota...I don’t care what you do...unless if it is with him…” She whimpers, waterworks streaming down her face.

Shota lifts her chin and searches her eyes, checking on how sincere she was being. Reading her eyes, he alleges that she was convinced Nezu would do something to their child. She was scared out of her wits. Stretching over her, he unstraps her to the bed.

“What are you doing, Aizawa?” Nezu questions, seeing no clarity on why he would suddenly change his mind.

“We’re going home... we’ll keep you updated.” Shota hesitates, aware that they would be unable to convince Nezu of leaving now. Perhaps that would be a way of building Emi’s trust by staying with her the whole time? That seemed to be her real worry. Wrapping his arms around Emi’s waist, he pulls her close. “We’re going to figure out some way to get out of here...I promise.”

Emi nods. Lifting her head, she utters close to Shota’s ear, “I haven’t been taking my meds.”

Eyes widening, he grips the bed harshly with his other hand. That explained everything. “Nezu, I know how this looks...believe me, we have it figured out.”

“Oh? What happened then?”

Acknowledging the fact that Nezu knew about Emi’s depression already, the black-haired man determined that they would be able to disclose what happened. “Emi forgot her meds. We’ll create a plan for the two of us to ensure her safety.”

“Hm, I sense there isn’t something you’re telling me, Aizawa.”

“No, that’s all. It’s been making her very anxious and overthink everything.” The ex-teacher specifies.

Emi nods, satisfied with her husband’s answer.

“Is that true, Mrs. Aizawa?”

“Yes. I’ve doubted everything, even things and people I should have no doubt in. I’m sorry…” Emi bows, apologizing for her behavior. “Please, let us go home. It was selfish for me to do such a thing...my husband will be able to take care of the rest...I have the medicine at home…”

“Why were you not taking it? And Aizawa, didn’t you check to see if she was taking her meds?”

“No, I trust that my wife is doing the right thing when it comes to her health...but she didn’t express any concerns, so I didn’t think there was anything.”

“You should be checking on that, Aizawa. I’m disappointed.”

“Marriage is about trust. You wouldn’t know that since you’re not married.” Shota snapped, growling at the offensive statement toward both of them.

“There are moments when one needs to override the trust they have with someone. Ultimately, doing what is best for their country, Japan.”

“I’m confident that it can be done without having to ruin your colleagues’ lives.” The raven-haired man hisses. “I’ve lost all respect for you, Nezu, due to this. You’re a monster…”

Nezu chuckles, amused by Shota’s accusation. “Shota, I didn’t realize that you were holding so much in...I’ll say that I’m rather perplexed by your attitude about all of this. I thought that we were on the same page, but it appears that you and Emi have something up your sleeve...not that I’m surprised... I’m sorry to do this, but I'm afraid we can’t trust you two anymore. Guards, arrest them.”

Being prepared, Shota quickly takes out his capture weapon of Emi’s purse.

“What the hell!? You put that in my purse...Shota...I don’t want you going through my purse.” Emi complains.

“Woman, just stop... I’m saving our lives...why are you worried about me going through your purse suddenly...seriously?!” Shota snarls, picking Emi up with one hand as he fights everyone else in the room.

“SHOTA!!!” Normally, she would be fighting alongside him, but with the baby and her mind feeling fuzzy with irrational thoughts. Instead, she was clinging to Shota for dear life. “I’M SO SCARED! HELP! HELP!”

Exhaling, he wraps his capture weapon around one of the guards, flinging him, so he breaks the window. Sprinting, he jumps out with Emi close to him. Catching the man with his weapon, he threw him to a rooftop. Only having seconds to act, he shot the cloth at a metal railing, hindering their fall.

“...” Emi was speechless, having no words to describe how she felt. They could no longer go home. All of that they established for themselves here was gone...It broke her. Resting her arms around his neck, she bawls, “...I-I...I can’t do this…”

Inactivating his quirk, he raises her chin. “Em, it’ll be alright...I know that you’re scared...I am too, but we’re going to figure this out together...first; we need to hide...we can’t go back to the apartment. We’re leaving everything that includes our phones.” He takes his out and throws it against the wall, shattering it instantly. Placing her on the ground, he wanders over to his phone and repeatedly stomps on it. “Emi, that includes your phone too.”

“Fine…” She pouts. Taking off her case, she tosses the device and let it cracks. Her husband did the rest, repeating to step on the device. “...Can we go?”

“...Yeah…” He nods, having no clue on where they were to run to. Grasping her hand, he gently tugs her toward the subway, “We need to get out of here...escape to someplace that they would never search for us…” He announces.

Recognizing that someone may still be watching, she walks them to the subway. Whispering, she suggested, “We could live in the middle of nowhere...a state or town they would never consider...or maybe another country...we could be undocumented for…”

“Well, yes...that would be our only choice…”

Grimacing, Emi agreed, “Alright...lead the way…”

“You know this continent better than I do...you should have a better sense than I do…”