As the vibrant autumn leaves danced through the chilly air, Y/N and Uraraka made their way from U.A. High to her hometown. The sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting a warm glow that highlighted their excitement. For both, this Thanksgiving was a significant milestone; it was their first holiday as a couple, and Y/N could hardly contain his eagerness to meet Uraraka's family.
"Are you sure they'll be okay with me coming along?" Y/N asked, glancing sideways at Uraraka, his brow furrowing slightly.
"Of course!" Uraraka replied with her characteristic cheerfulness, her brown hair bouncing as she walked. "They'll love you! Just… um, I may not have mentioned that we're dating." She spoke the last part a little too quickly, biting her lip nervously.
"Wait, what?" Y/N's eyes widened. "You didn't tell them?"
"I thought it'd be a nice surprise! Plus, we've only been dating for a few months," she argued, fiddling with her fingers. "I didn't want to overwhelm them."
"Overwhelm them? We're just going to dinner, right?" Y/N chuckled, but Uraraka's anxious demeanor made him sober up quickly.
As they arrived at her home, the delicious aroma of roasting turkey and pumpkin pie wafted through the air, instantly filling Y/N with nostalgia for his own family's Thanksgiving traditions. The front door opened with a joyful creak, and Uraraka's mother rushed out, arms wide open.
"Chika! You're home!" Mrs. Uraraka enveloped her daughter in a warm embrace. "And you brought a guest! Who is this?"
"Uh, Mom, this is Y/N. He's, um, a friend from school!" Uraraka's eyes darted, her cheeks turning a shade of pink.
Y/N forced a smile, waving as Mrs. Uraraka pulled away. "Nice to meet you! Your home smells amazing!" He couldn't help but be slightly nervous as he felt the weight of her mother's gaze.
"Thank you! Come on in, dinner will be ready soon," Mrs. Uraraka beamed, guiding them into the cozy living room adorned with autumn decorations.
As the dinner preparations continued, Y/N and Uraraka stayed together, the warmth of the home easing some of his anxiety. They helped set the table, laughing as they exchanged playful banter. Each time Y/N caught a glimpse of Uraraka's smile, his heart skipped a beat.
However, as the clock ticked down to dinner, Y/N could sense a shift in the air. Uraraka's father, a burly man with a gentle demeanor, entered the room and raised an eyebrow at Y/N.
"Who might this be?" he asked, crossing his arms.
"Dad, this is Y/N! He's… a very good friend," Uraraka stammered, her eyes pleading for Y/N to jump in.
Y/N straightened, mustering his courage. "I'm really happy to be here, Mr. Uraraka. I've heard so much about you and your family from Ochako." He grinned, trying to exude confidence.
"Hmph, a friend, huh?" Mr. Uraraka's gaze softened slightly. "You must be someone special if she brought you all the way here to meet us."
Uraraka's eyes widened, and she shot Y/N a glance that mixed hope with panic. Y/N nodded, his heart in his throat as he took a deep breath.
"Yes, sir. Actually, we've been dating for a few months now," he admitted, feeling the weight of his own truth hanging in the air. He looked to Uraraka, hoping for support.
Her face lit up with relief. "See, Dad? I told you he's special!" She squeezed Y/N's hand, their fingers intertwining, grounding him amidst the tension.
Mr. Uraraka scratched his beard thoughtfully. "Ah, dating, huh? Well, it's about time! You know, I've been cautious about who my daughter spends time with. I just want to protect her."
"I understand completely, sir," Y/N replied earnestly, his heart racing. "She means a lot to me, and I'll do my best to take care of her."
Mrs. Uraraka beamed at her husband. "Well, if they're happy, let's celebrate! Dinner is almost ready, and we have so much to be thankful for!"
As the table filled with dishes of turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pie, the atmosphere brightened. Laughter bubbled around the table, and Y/N felt the warmth of family envelop him. He caught Uraraka's eye across the table, and her smile was as bright as the autumn sun outside.
When the time came for everyone to share what they were thankful for, Y/N felt both nervous and grateful. It was finally his turn.
"I'm thankful for many things this year," he began, glancing at Uraraka who looked both nervous and excited. "But above all, I'm thankful for getting to know a wonderful person who brings joy into my life… and for having the chance to be here with all of you."
The table erupted into applause, and Uraraka beamed with pride, putting her hand on his knee under the table.
That evening, surrounded by laughter, delicious food, and a family that slowly began to embrace him, Y/N felt a warmth he hadn't known he was missing. It was a Thanksgiving to remember—one where love blossomed and new bonds were formed, all under the fluttering colors of autumn leaves.