𝔸 𝔾𝕙𝕠𝕤𝕥 𝕠𝕗 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕎𝕒𝕤 𝕆𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕄𝕚𝕟𝕖 💥𝔹𝕒𝕜𝕦𝔻𝕖𝕜𝕦💥

Hopelessness

Art is from chiyaya666 on twitter

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

Chapter 14

Katsuki tried to maintain his distance over the next few days, but the fear that this could all be a dream, that Izuku could slip away from him again compelled him to check on him more often than he cared to admit. The tracheostomy tube had been removed from Izuku's neck, but he hadn't tried to speak yet. The nurse reassured Katsuki that Izuku would try when he was ready.

From the corner of his eye, Katsuki observed the steady stream of visitors from Class 1-A who came to see Izuku while he lingered nonchalantly on the couch. Despite not recognizing any faces, Izuku made a genuine effort to be polite and welcoming. Ochaco, Shoto, and Iida were among the first group to arrive. They appeared casual, dressed in everyday clothes, but Katsuki couldn't help but notice the curiosity in Izuku's gaze. After waking up, Izuku took to watching TV, attempting to catch up with the present. It was only natural for him to wonder why so many Pro Heroes were popping in to see someone like him.

Katsuki noted that Izuku's face would brighten when guests would show, as if expecting someone he knew, then become reserved. It was as if he were waiting for someone—most likely his mom.

Katsuki's attention shifted back to the room as a high-pitched squeal pierced through the air, shattering his train of thought. Ochaco's excitement filled the air as she said, "Oh, my god! Izuku, it's been so long! Can I call you that? Are you okay with that?" Izuku's eyes darted around nervously as he fidgeted with the blanket, his cheeks flushing with a rosy hue.

Why does he have to act so damn innocent... It's infuriatingly adorable.

"I know you can't speak yet, but I'm Ochaco," she introduced herself, placing her hand on her chest before gesturing to the other two men in the room. "This is Iida and Shoto," they chimed in, their smiles warm and welcoming. Izuku's lips curved into a slight smile in response to their greetings. Katsuki couldn't help but notice the subtle change in Izuku's demeanor. His eyes lacked their usual sparkle, appearing dull and somewhat hollow. He couldn't pinpoint the source of Izuku's unease—whether there was something troubling him or if exhaustion had taken its toll. Regardless, Katsuki feared that he might inadvertently frighten him if he were to confront him.

The trio of classmates reminisced about their time at UA, recalling their shared experiences and the bond they had forged with Izuku. They made sure to mention Katsuki's presence in their class, eliciting a grunt of acknowledgment from him. As the conversation carried on for about an hour, Katsuki couldn't ignore the signs of weariness creeping across Izuku's face, his energy visibly waning.

"Oi, I think he needs a break," Katsuki declared abruptly, his voice carrying a touch of urgency as he stood up, inadvertently startling Izuku in the process. Shoto remained unfazed by the sudden outburst, "You tired, Midoryia? Do you want us to go?" he asked, putting a hand on Izuku's arm.

Katsuki's eye twitched at the sight of Shoto's hand resting on Izuku's arm, a gesture of affection that grated on his nerves. He couldn't help the acidic remark that escaped his lips, fueled by a mix of jealousy and protectiveness. "Watch it, Daddy issues, take your hand off him," Katsuki spat, his voice dripping with hostility.

Izuku hesitated momentarily, his gaze shifting to Katsuki, who was watching him intently. Their eyes locked, and for a brief moment, Katsuki saw a flicker of something familiar in Izuku's gaze. But just as quickly, Izuku looked away. He nodded his head in response to Katsuki's question.

"Yes, let's go then," Iida said, breaking the tense atmosphere. The group bid their farewells, and as soon as they left the room, Katsuki noticed Izuku's facade crumbling. The weariness etched on his face became more pronounced, and he fidgeted in the bed, trying to find a more comfortable position. Katsuki watched him as he struggled before he looked back at the blonde and then looking away when the heartbeat monitor began to pick up.