The sun was high, casting long shadows across the school sports field. Shizuka Hiratsuka-sensei had volunteered to demonstrate proper posture and techniques for a student PE lesson, her usual energy and precision drawing attention from the class.
But one wrong step—perhaps a slip, perhaps fatigue—sent a sharp pain shooting up her leg. She stumbled, her ankle twisting painfully. A muffled gasp escaped her lips, and she sank slightly to the ground, wincing.
Hachiman, standing near the sidelines with his usual calm composure, noticed immediately. Observation Haki, barely restrained, picked up the sharp shift in her stance, the subtle tension in her posture, the micro-expressions of pain on her face.
Without hesitation, he strode forward, ignoring the wide-eyed stares of classmates and students alike. Before anyone could react, he bent slightly, and with the effortless strength of his now-enhanced physique, lifted Shizuka into his arms like a princess.
"H-Hachiman! Put me down!" she protested, half-panicked, half-flustered, though the sharp pain in her leg made her words weaker than usual.
He ignored the protests, walking steadily across the field with unwavering confidence. Every step radiated a quiet authority and strength that made even the gawking students hesitate. "Sensei… it's okay. Let me see your leg. Did you sprain it?" His voice was low, warm, and caring, carrying a calm authority that contrasted with the teasing undertone of his usual banter.
Shizuka's cheeks flushed deep red. "I… I can walk! I don't need… you to carry me!"
Hachiman smirked faintly, adjusting her gently in his arms. "Walking would make it worse. Trust me… I can handle this. You need rest, not stubbornness."
Arriving at the Infirmary
By the time they reached the school infirmary, students and a few teachers had gathered at the door, whispering and staring. The infirmary teacher, mid-pen adjustment, raised a brow at the sight.
"Well… Hachiman Hikigaya," she said teasingly, her voice dripping with amusement, "carrying your teacher? That's a first."
Shizuka's blush deepened, her face pressed lightly against his chest. "I… I'm fine! Really!" she protested, but the pain in her ankle made any attempt to escape futile.
Hachiman didn't reply with words—just gave a faint smirk and set her gently on the infirmary bed. "Relax, sensei. Let me check. Where does it hurt?" His hands were careful, but steady, examining her ankle.
The infirmary teacher rolled her eyes, muttering, "Hachiman… you're lucky she's not taller than you. And you're not as subtle as you think."
Shizuka, still flustered, shot Hachiman a side glance. "You… you could've just… let someone help me!"
He gave a low, amused chuckle. "And miss this opportunity to make sure you're okay? Not a chance."
First Aid & Bandaging
Hachiman stayed quietly as the teacher carefully bandaged Shizuka's ankle. His calm presence radiated care, subtle strength, and patience. Every now and then, he offered gentle, teasing comments to lighten her embarrassment.
"There. Finished. How does it feel?" he asked once the bandage was secure.
Shizuka flexed carefully, testing her leg. "Better… thanks… I guess," she muttered, still flushed.
Hachiman leaned slightly closer, voice soft but firm. "Good. But don't push yourself today. Rest. I'll bring lunch later."
Shizuka looked at him, caught between appreciation, embarrassment, and something warmer she couldn't name. Hachiman simply smirked, stepping back slightly, letting the moment settle—but the presence, care, and subtle teasing lingered, leaving an impression she couldn't ignore.