The early morning sun cast a golden glow over the serene lake, its surface shimmering like a blanket of tiny diamonds. Izuku Midoriya stood on the patio of his modern, spacious lake house, taking in the peaceful landscape around him. Today was not just any ordinary day; it was Thanksgiving, a day traditionally spent with family, but this year would be different. As Pro Heroes with demanding schedules, Izuku and his friends—the Deku Squad—had made a pact to carve out a slice of time, one that would be devoted solely to friendship and camaraderie.
A flurry of excitement built within him as he reminisced about their plans. Each member of the squad had promised to contribute a special dish. It felt like a heartfelt gesture instead of the usual grab-and-go meals they often resorted to during their busy lives.
"Okay, I totally got this!" Izuku muttered to himself, confidence surging in his veins. He'd prepared all night and was ready to whip up his mom's famous pumpkin pie. He glanced at the clock, realizing his friends would be arriving soon. With a final check to ensure all was set, he turned back to the kitchen, where the sweet aroma of spices filled the air.
Tenya Iida was the first to arrive. The moment he stepped through the door, he was a whirlwind of energy, adjusting his glasses and carrying a beautifully wrapped basket that contained a savory stuffing made from his family recipe. "Midoriya! I hope you have everything prepared! A well-organized Friendsgiving is paramount to a successful celebration!"
Izuku chuckled at Iida's earnestness, appreciating the sense of responsibility he always brought to their gatherings. "I think we're all good on that front, Iida!"
Next to arrive was Shoto Todoroki, who entered quietly, a covered dish clutched in one hand. As usual, he looked both intense and contemplative, his dual-colored hair catching the sunlight as he moved. "I brought a roasted turkey. It's infused with a little bit of ice and fire to enhance the flavor," he said, glancing around the room. Izuku could almost see the wheels turning in Shoto's mind as he pondered over how different experiences and quirks could combine into something special.
"Wow, Shoto! That sounds amazing!" Izuku exclaimed, just as Tsuyu Asui hopped in, her amphibian-esque grace leaving a trail of cheer in the air.
"Ribbit! I prepared some green bean casserole," Tsuyu announced, her smile brightening the room. "I thought it would be a nice balance to all the richer foods everyone is bringing."
Finally, Ochaco Uraraka's bubbly laughter rang in like a bell, preceding her arrival. "I hope you're all ready for some delicious homemade macaroni and cheese!" She held up her dish, steam swirling in the air around it. The cheesy warmth radiated through the room, making everyone's stomachs growl in unison.
With everyone present, they gathered around the dining table, which was decked out with a variety of dishes, each representing their unique styles and quirks. Laughter and stories echoed around the space as they helped themselves to the offerings. The warmth of food felt even better surrounded by friends who understood the relentless demands of hero life.
Between bites, they reminisced about old times—how they'd started their journey at U.A. High School, the hardships they'd faced, and the delightful chaos of their training. They shared their aspirations; Izuku dreamed of being the Symbol of Peace one day, while Tenya emphasized the importance of hero ethics, even in the kitchen. Tsuyu gently reminded them not to forget their roots, and Shoto quietly encouraged the notion that everyone's quirks contributed to their strength as a team.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, diffusing a golden hue over the lake, Izuku brought out the pumpkin pie, the centerpiece of the meal. "I made this as a thank-you for everything you guys mean to me," he said, his heart swelling with pride and gratitude.
Each of his friends took a slice, their eyes shining not just with the sweet treat but with the warmth of friendship. They raised their slices in a toast. "To friendship, to our teamwork, and to many more gatherings like this!" Ochaco declared.
"Ribbit! To us!" Tsuyu added.
Laughter boomed around the table like a chorus, drowning out the busy life of Pro Heroes for just a moment. They shared stories, indulged in sweets, and truly let their guards down as friends, unburdened by the weight of their responsibilities. It was a day of laughter, reflection, and a celebration of what it meant to be united, not just as heroes, but as a family chosen by fate.
As stars twinkled overhead, Izuku looked around the table, a warm fullness spreading through his chest. In that moment, everything felt just right, as if time itself had paused to embrace their bond. Today was a day to be thankful, and there was nothing in the world he would trade for these memories they had just created together.