Chapter 3 - Collection

The next few days at U.A. passed in a blur for Kaito. He tried his best to keep a low profile, focusing on his studies and training, but it was hard to ignore Mineta's incessant attempts to get close. Whether it was a whispered comment between classes, a wink during lunch, or a subtle brush of his shoulder when they were passing in the hallways, Mineta was relentless. Kaito couldn't shake the feeling that Mineta was studying him, trying to figure out what made him tick.

One afternoon, after a particularly grueling class, Kaito was walking back to his dorm when Mineta appeared again, as if summoned by Kaito's very thoughts. He was leaning against the wall, his signature grin plastered on his face, his eyes glinting with something almost predatory.

"Hey, Takahashi," Mineta greeted him smoothly, pushing off the wall and stepping into his path. "Got a minute?"

Kaito didn't break his stride, but he slowed just enough to acknowledge Mineta's presence. "What is it now, Mineta?"

Mineta chuckled, falling into step beside him. "Nothing much, just wanted to see if you'd be interested in a little... favor." He leaned closer, his voice dropping into a conspiratorial tone. "I got some... exclusive footage you might want to see."

Kaito's stomach churned, though he kept his expression neutral. He could already guess what Mineta was implying. "Exclusive footage?" he repeated, his tone flat.

"Yeah," Mineta grinned, a mischievous gleam in his eye. "Some *private* shots of Ms. Midnight... you know, when she's not exactly in uniform." His grin widened, seeing the flicker of discomfort cross Kaito's face. "I could *share* them with you. For a *price*, of course."

Kaito took a breath, forcing down the anger building in his chest. "Look, Mineta," he said, his voice calm and even. "I'm not interested. I've got other things to worry about."

Mineta laughed, his tone mocking. "Oh come on, don't be such a stick in the mud. Everyone needs a little distraction now and then." He lowered his voice, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Especially when the distraction is a smokin' hot teacher, am I right?"

Kaito shook his head, his expression hardening. "No, Mineta, you're wrong. I'm not interested in your stupid porn collection. Now leave me alone."

Mineta frowned, his eyebrows knitting together in annoyance. "Hey, watch it. Those pictures aren't easy to come by, you know."

Kaito scoffed, his patience wearing thin. "You think I care? Look, just stay out of my way, and I'll stay out of yours. Deal?"

Mineta's frown deepened, but he backed off, shrugging casually. "Fine, whatever. I've got other ways to entertain myself."

Kaito didn't respond, striding past him, not looking back.

It was clear to Mineta that Kaito was going to be more of a challenge to his plans than he expected.