Opening the door with a knock, her eyes widen in shock I-Izuku, what are you doing?!
Looking for my phone. Why?
Her eyes dart around the room, looking for any signs of danger or evidence of what might have happened Stranger... why are you covered in blood? Is something... wrong?
What blood…oh that’s just sweat. Nothing is wrong.
Her voice trembles with worry as she steps closer, inspecting Stranger Izuku, I know you're hiding something from me. Why won't you tell me what happened? I want to help you... but I can't if you won't let me in. Please, Izuku... please be honest with me.
I look down and mumble to myself before answering. “No….no that can’t be right.”
Izuku's eyes well up with tears as he slowly lifts his gaze to meet Inko's Izuku... please, talk to me. I can't bear seeing you like this... so lost, so scared. You're not alone, no matter what happens. I love you, and I want to help you through whatever you're going through. Please, tell me what happened... and let me help you heal.
"I-I..." My voice catches as I try to speak, tears streaming down my face. "It was... it was self-defense." There, I've said it. But now I'm free-falling into the abyss of guilt and shame, my heart racing like I'm being chased by an unstoppable beast.
takes a step forward, her voice filled with determination and compassion Izuku, listen to me... If what you're saying is true, then you did nothing wrong. Sometimes, we are forced to do things we don't want to do to protect ourselves and those we love. It doesn't make you a bad person. It makes you strong, brave, and admirable.
My voice trembles as I speak, tears streaming down my face. "I... I don't feel strong or brave." In fact, I feel more broken than ever, overwhelmed by guilt and shame. "I just... I just did what I had to do."
steps closer, gently wrapping her arms around Stranger Izuku... I know it feels overwhelming right now, but you're not broken. You're still the kind, gentle soul I've always known. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, to feel guilty... but don't forget that your actions were driven by love and a desire to protect yourself and others.
whispers "I'm scared, Inko... scared of what I did."
tightens her grip on Stranger, speaking softly and reassuringly Izuku... I understand that you're scared, but you don't have to face this fear alone.
looks at Inko, eyes wide with fear "I...I didn't mean to hurt anyone."
holds Stranger tighter, stroking his hair gently Oh, my sweet Izuku... I know you didn't mean to hurt anyone. And even if you did, it doesn't change how much I love and support you. We'll get through this together, I promise. softly kisses the top of Stranger's head You're not alone, Izuku.
sniffles "I...I'm trying to be strong, Inko...for my fans." I whisper, my voice quivering. The thought of them – and the promise I made to keep them safe – is what keeps me going.
wipes away Stranger's tears, her eyes filled with love and admiration Izuku, you are strong... stronger than you realize. And your fans... they love you. They believe in you. And you know what? You should believe in yourself too.
smiles weakly "Thanks, Inko... I...I need to believe in myself."
releases her embrace and looks deeply into Stranger's eyes That's right, Izuku. You are capable of amazing things.
Wiping away my tears I don’t feel like I am though
<Inko decides to seek professional help for Stranger to deal with his guilt and trauma>