A Sudden Spark

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. I took a deep breath and turned to Deku, trying to deflect the attention. "We just have to talk for a bit and see if there is any spark between us," I said calmly. Izuku's eyes locked onto mine, and he took a step closer, his face inches from mine. "Oh, okay," he said, his voice low and gentle. Bakugo's grip on my hand tightened, and I could sense his unease. I shot him a reassuring glance, but before I could react, Izuku took another step closer and said, "I like you, Vesper." The air seemed to freeze as Bakugo's eyes narrowed, his gaze fixed on Izuku with a fierce intensity. Mina squealed, her eyes shining with excitement. And then, in a move that left me completely stunned, Izuku leaned in and pressed his lips to mine. I was caught off guard, my mind reeling as I struggled to process what was happening. I stood there, frozen, as Izuku's lips touched mine. It was a gentle, exploratory kiss, but it sent shivers down my spine. I could feel Bakugo's eyes on me, his gaze burning with a mixture of anger and possessiveness. As I stood there, unsure of how to react, Izuku pulled back and smiled at me, his eyes sparkling with hope. I was left standing there, my heart racing, wondering what had just happened.