Chapter 79: Deku Squad
The evening had an air of cheerful anticipation as the Deku Squad gathered in Izuku Midoriya's cozy living room. Twinkling fairy lights decorated the walls, illuminating the space with a warm glow. A small, fragrant pine tree sat in the corner, adorned with mismatched ornaments that each held a story of their own—just like the members of the squad.
"Are you sure this is the right way to do it?" Shoto Todoroki glanced at the towering stack of blankets piled on the couch, unsure if it was designed for comfort or could double as a makeshift fort if they needed one.
"Absolutely!" Ochaco Uraraka chirped, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "This will be the best Christmas movie marathon ever!"
Tsuyu Asui, perched on the armrest of the couch, nodded enthusiastically. "We should get comfy. Don't forget the hot cocoa!"
With a quick motion, Izuku launched himself into the kitchen, armed with marshmallows and a giant mug he'd decorated himself. The familiar sounds of boiling milk and the quick clink of spoons echoed from the kitchen, adding to the festive mood.
When he returned, the air was filled with the sweet scent of chocolate, and Ochaco and Tsuyu wasted no time in grabbing their mugs and snuggling into the blankets. "Okay, everyone! We've elected our first movie!" Ochaco announced, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm.
Tsuyu raised her hand, a playful grin on her face. "Elf! It's a classic! And it's super funny."
"But also, it's heartwarming!" Ochaco chimed in, nudging Tsuyu playfully. "Seriously, how can you not love Buddy the Elf?"
Iida, who had adorned himself in festive elf pajamas, adjusted his glasses. "Very well! However, we must observe proper viewing etiquette! No talking during the movie and keep the snacks to a minimum distraction!"
Deku chuckled, setting his mug down and arranging the snacks on the coffee table. "Yeah, yeah, we'll make sure to follow the rules, Iida. But it's a movie night! Celebrating is part of the fun too!"
As the opening credits rolled, the room filled with laughter at the sight of Buddy bounding through the giant city, oblivious to the chaotic reality around him. Each joke, every over-the-top moment drew out the group's laughter, creating a comforting sense of togetherness.
Tsuyu leaned excitedly toward Deku during one particularly funny scene. "Did you see that? Buddy just got hit in the face with a snowball! That was so unexpected!"
Deku couldn't help but laugh and nodded, already feeling the warmth of camaraderie enveloping him. The movie scenes brought back memories of family traditions and childhood cheer. It didn't matter that they were all different; tonight, they were a family.
As the credits rolled, and the familiar Christmas tunes played in the background, Ochaco clapped her hands. "This was amazing! I love Buddy!"
Iida adjusted his glasses delicately. "I must admit, despite its lack of educational value, it was surprisingly enjoyable."
Shoto, silent but content, nodded in agreement. "The message of kindness was nice. It's important, especially during the holidays."
With their second movie queued up—a more serious film about the spirit of giving—the squad was ready for round two. But first, Deku proposed a hot cocoa toast, raising his mug, and the others quickly followed suit, grinning as they cheered: "To friendship and holiday spirit!"
The evening continued with more laughter, shared anecdotes, and the warm feeling of camaraderie that filled the room. As the night wore on, they wrapped themselves deeper into the blankets, finding comfort in each other's presence, and the spirit of the season embraced them all in a gentle hug.
As the last flickers of the second movie faded and the clock ticked closer to midnight, each member felt the magic of Christmas all around them—one filled with light, laughter, and love that they knew would anchor them for years to come.
It was a Christmas that would be remembered, not for the movies they watched, but for the bond they further strengthened, making their first marathon together truly unforgettable.