The mock rescue mission was designed to test leadership under pressure.
Aizawa had chosen Y/N to lead — a decision that sent ripples through the class. Some nodded in approval. Others raised eyebrows. Bakugo said nothing.
He was assigned as second-in-command.
Y/N stood at the front of the briefing room, map in hand, voice steady. "We'll split into two squads. Squad A handles extraction. Squad B secures the perimeter."
Bakugo leaned against the wall, arms crossed. "You sure you want me on perimeter?"
Y/N met his gaze. "I trust you."
He didn't respond.
But his eyes softened.
—
The simulation began in the forest clearing.
Y/N moved with purpose, issuing commands, coordinating movements. The "hostage" was hidden deep in the terrain, guarded by automated drones and traps. Bakugo's squad flanked the perimeter, explosions clearing paths, his voice barking orders.
Then the crisis hit.
A drone malfunctioned, firing a real blast.
Jirou was caught in the crossfire, pinned beneath debris.
Y/N froze.
Bakugo was closest.
He moved instantly — blasting through the wreckage, pulling Jirou free.
But another drone targeted him.
Y/N saw it.
And made a choice.
They abandoned the extraction route.
Ran toward Bakugo.
Shielded him with a pulse wave.
The blast hit Y/N instead.
She dropped hard.
Bakugo caught them.
"Why the hell did you do that?!!" he shouted, voice cracking.
"You were exposed," Y/N gasped.
"I can handle it!"
"I couldn't risk it."
The simulation ended.
Aizawa called it off.
—
In the med bay, Y/N lay on the cot, ribs bruised, breath shallow.
Bakugo sat beside them, fists clenched.
"You were supposed to lead," he said.
"I did."
"You broke formation."
"I saved you."
Bakugo's voice was low. "You chose me over the mission."
Y/N looked at him. "I'd do it again."
He didn't speak.
Just reached for her hand.
And held on.
—
Later, Aizawa pulled Y/N aside.
"You're emotionally compromised," he said.
Y/N nodded. "I know."
"Fix it," he said. "Or step down."
Y/N didn't answer.
But the echo of the blast still rang in their ears.
And Bakugo's grip hadn't loosened.