Chapter 186: A Sudden Interruption

The memory of Mina's mischievous grin still lingered on my face as we continued on our journey, Bakugo's hand still wrapped securely around mine. The tension in the air was palpable, but it was a mix of excitement and anticipation rather than anxiety. We were all in this together, and I had no doubt that we would face whatever challenges came our way as a team. As we walked, I couldn't help but notice the way the sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground. It was a peaceful scene, one that I would have enjoyed if it wasn't for the nagging feeling of unease that had settled in my stomach. I glanced over at Bakugo, who was watching me with an intent gaze. His eyes seemed to bore into my very soul, as if searching for any sign of weakness. I smiled, trying to reassure him that I was fine, but my heart was racing. Just as I was starting to feel like I was going to burst from nervous energy, a voice cut through the silence. "Hey, Vesper," it said. My heart skipped a beat as I turned to see Izuku Midoriya, his eyes fixed on me with a friendly smile. I felt a flush rise to my cheeks as I returned his greeting, trying to play it cool. "Hey, Deku," I replied, trying to sound casual despite the sudden jolt of nervousness that had taken hold of me. Bakugo's grip on my hand tightened, and I could sense a possessive instinct rising within him. I shot him a reassuring glance, trying to let him know that everything was okay. Izuku seemed oblivious to the tension that had suddenly arisen between us. He fell into step beside me, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "So, how's it going? I was starting to worry that I was going to be the only one left behind." Mina, who had been walking ahead of us, turned back to face us. "Deku, you're just in time," she said, a mischievous glint in her eye. "We were just about to face the next challenge." Izuku's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? What is it?" I exchanged a nervous glance with Bakugo, who was watching Izuku with a wary eye. I had a feeling that this was going to be a challenge unlike any other, and I wasn't sure if I was ready.