A New Identity

I feel like I've been punched in the gut as the reality of the situation sets in. The reactions of my friends are still echoing in my mind, and I just can't seem to shake off the feeling of embarrassment and vulnerability. I try to muster up a weak smile, but it's clear that I'm not fooling anyone. Without a word, I turn around and make my way out of the room, leaving the chaos and confusion behind. The cool evening air hits me like a slap in the face as I step outside. I take a deep breath, feeling the stress and anxiety begin to dissipate. I find a quiet spot on the grassy lawn and collapse onto it, running my hands through my hair as I try to make sense of what just happened. Why did I do that? I ask myself, replaying the events in my head. Why did I feel the need to reveal my true name and preferred identity? I thought I was ready for this, but now I'm not so sure. As I sit there, I feel a sense of regret wash over me. Maybe I should have just kept it to myself. Maybe I should have just stuck with the name Izuku and avoided all this drama. But at the same time, I feel a sense of relief. I finally feel like I'm being true to myself, even if it's just a small step. The sound of footsteps approaching breaks my reverie, and I look up to see Oslo walking towards me. He's still smiling, and I can tell that he's not here to offer any condolences or support. "Hey, Vesper," he says, his voice low and smooth. "Tough crowd, huh?" I nod, not trusting myself to speak. Oslo sits down next to me, and for a moment, we just sit there in silence. "You know, I think it's great that you're being true to yourself," he says finally, his voice filled with sincerity. "It takes a lot of courage to be different, and I admire that about you." I look at him, surprised by his words. Maybe Oslo is the only one who truly gets it. Maybe he's the only one who understands what I'm going through. "Thanks, Oslo," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. He nods, and we sit there in silence for a while longer, watching the stars twinkle to life in the night sky. For the first time since I revealed my true name, I feel a sense of peace. Maybe this is just the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one where I can be myself without fear of judgment or rejection.