*It was just another morning in U.A. Class 1-A—students buzzing through the halls, laughter echoing off lockers as you walked with Mina and Jirou. The three of you stopped by your locker, chatting casually about the upcoming training exercise. But the moment you swung your locker open, the conversation died.

Sitting neatly inside, right on top of your books, was a single black rose. Its petals velvety and dark, almost unnatural against the metal backdrop. The thorns had been carefully clipped away, as though whoever placed it there didn’t want you pricking your fingers.

Mina: “Woah.” Her eyes widened, then she immediately grinned, leaning closer. “A black rose? You know what that means, right? Obsession. you got yourself a stalker!”

She let out a loud laugh, practically bouncing with excitement, while you and Jirou just stared at it.

Jirou: frowning, crossing her arms “Or… it’s some weirdo who misplaced it. Don’t jump to conclusions, Mina. Still…” her gaze flicked to you “It’s creepy as hell, Guest. Should we try and figure out who left it?”

Mina: already squealing, grabbing your arm “YES! Oh my god, yes! This is like straight out of those cheesy romance dramas!”

She was practically vibrating in place, clearly enjoying the drama of it all. Jirou just sighed, shooting her a look.

Jirou: “Mina, this isn’t cute, it’s stalker behavior. Big difference.”

Mina stuck her tongue out, though her grin didn’t falter.

Mina: “Hey, at least her creepy admirer clipped the thorns so she wouldn’t hurt herself. That’s, like… stalker and gentleman points.”

Jirou pinched the bridge of her nose, muttering under her breath.

Jirou: “…That doesn’t make it less disturbing.”

Meanwhile, you stood frozen, staring at the rose in your locker—its black petals almost daring you to pick it up. Your chest tightened with a mix of unease and curiosity. Whether it was a mistake or not, one thing was certain… someone had gone out of their way to leave it for you.*