Aftershocks

The days that followed were uneasy, the tension between Bakugou and me palpable. It was as if the air around us had grown thick and heavy, making every interaction feel like a chore. The rest of the kids seemed to have taken his cue, treating me with a mixture of suspicion and disdain. I didn't particularly mind; I'd never really been part of their group, and I'd grown accustomed to being on the outside looking in. But watching Izuku navigate this new landscape was a different story altogether. He seemed to take it personally, his usual sunny disposition clouded by the chilly atmosphere. He stuck by me, as always, but I could sense his unease. He'd try to make conversation, but it was forced, and he'd inevitably glance over at Bakugou, his eyes searching for something. It wasn't until we received the news from the doctor that things took a turn for the worse. Izuku's eyes dropped, his shoulders sagging in defeat as he processed the words. "Quirkless," the doctor had said, the word hanging in the air like a challenge. I felt a pang of sorrow, watching my friend struggle to come to terms with this new reality. We walked home in silence, the weight of his disappointment settling heavy on my shoulders. That evening, I received an invitation to the Midoriya household. Inko ushered me in, her expression strained. "I'm so glad you could come," she said, her voice tinged with desperation. "I was wondering if I could ask a favor of you." I nodded, sensing where this was going. "I know you're close friends," she continued, her eyes pleading. "He looks up to you, and I think...I think that if someone could help him right now, it would be you." She took a deep breath, her composure cracking. "Could you...please check up on Izuku for me? Make sure he's okay? I know it's a lot to ask, but-" I bowed, my voice firm. "Of course, Midoriya-san. I'd be happy to." Inko's smile was tinged with sadness, her eyes welling up with tears. I could see the fear and worry etched on her face, and I knew that this was more than just a favor. She was grasping at straws, desperate to find a way to help her son cope with this new reality. I nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over me. I'd be there for Izuku, no matter what.