NOVEL NEXT Chapter 97: New Years!
It was New Year's Eve at U.A. High School, and the vibrant laughter and excitement of Class 1-A echoed through the decorated hall. Colorful streamers hung from the ceiling, shimmering under the glow of fairy lights, while a dazzling banner reading "Happy New Year!" adorned one wall. The scent of baked goods and savory snacks wafted through the air as the students made the final preparations for the party.
Each student was dressed to impress, with their outfits reflecting their personalities. Deku, in a smart but comfortable suit, adjusted his bowtie nervously, glancing at Shoto, who looked effortlessly handsome in a tailored dress shirt, his normally icy demeanor warming with the thrill of the occasion.
"Are you ready?" Deku asked, his voice just above a whisper, a bright green blush creeping up his cheeks.
Shoto smiled, a soft but genuine expression that made Deku's heart flutter. "I will be, especially now that we're together."
Meanwhile, Bakugo and Kirishima were deep in conversation, the former trying to hide his excitement under his usual gruff exterior. Kirishima, in contrast, looked radiant in a bright red shirt that made his spiky hair pop even more. "Come on, Bakugo! It's a party! Just have fun!" he urged, grabbing Bakugo's hand and pulling him closer to the group of dancing students.
Denki and Shinsou were huddled at a snack table, Denki munching on chips. "Dude, do you think we should make a toast when the clock strikes midnight?" Denki suggested, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Only if you promise not to electrocute anyone with your 'toast'," Shinsou replied dryly, though a small smile crept onto his face.
In another corner, Mei and Iida were discussing the clock countdown preparations. Mei, in a stylish dress that she had designed herself, was excitedly explaining her idea for a special countdown showcase. Iida, ever the diligent student council vice president, nodded fervently. "Yes! Organization is key! We must ensure everyone knows the schedule!"
Tsuyu and Uraraka stood at the refreshment table, chatting animatedly about their hopes for the new year. "I really hope this year brings us even more adventures," Uraraka said, clasping her hands together. Tsuyu nodded thoughtfully. "And hopefully more frogs," she added with a small grin, which made Uraraka laugh.
As the clock hands approached midnight, the energy in the room intensified. The students gathered in a circle, excitement bubbling over as they prepared for the moment they had all been waiting for. Everyone's hearts raced as the countdown began.
"Ten… nine… eight…" the collective voices chimed together, building anticipation.
"Seven… six… five…" Deku, too excited to keep still, squeezed Shoto's hand tightly, and Shoto responded by intertwining their fingers.
"Four… three… two…" Bakugo shouted, slapping Kirishima's back as if to urge him onward, while Kirishima grinned at him like a sunbeam.
"One… and a happy New Year!"
As soon as the clock struck twelve, the room burst into celebratory cheers, confetti flying through the air like magic. Under the cascading shower of colorful paper, the couples leaned in, their lips meeting in sweet, electrifying kisses.
Deku and Shoto shared a gentle yet passionate kiss, the world around them fading away as they became lost in each other's warmth. Bakugo, caught off guard, but unable to fight the moment, leaned in and kissed Kirishima deeply, their connection solidified in that brief eternity.
Denki grabbed Shinsou's face, pulling him in for a quick kiss before shyly backing off, eyes sparkling with surprise and fondness. Mei and Iida shared a confounding mix of anxiety and excitement, exchanging a peck that was both chaotic and endearing. Meanwhile, Tsuyu and Uraraka laughed as they each shared a soft kiss, the warmth of their friendship shining brighter than ever.
The laughter and joy rang through the rooms as Class 1-A celebrated the new beginning. The worries of school, training, and the unceasing challenges ahead were momentarily forgotten, replaced with the glow of friendships, love, and the promise of new adventures.
As the night continued, they danced and talked, resolving not to let the year ahead dampen their spirits. Bound by memories, laughter, and the bonds they had forged, they welcomed the future together, ready to face whatever came their way—hand in hand.