Chapter 004 (Sun, Surf, and Surprises!)

The sun was just starting to peek over the horizon, casting a golden glow over the bustling private airport. A sleek, luxurious plane stood ready on the tarmac, its silver finish gleaming in the light. Nearby, Aoi Yukimura, dressed in a pink travel outfit, stood with her parents, exchanging quiet goodbyes. Standing beside her, Momo Yaoyorozu and Shoto Todoroki also bid their parents farewell, the anticipation of their trip shimmering in the air.

"I trust you'll all be careful," Aoi's father said in his calm, authoritative tone, resting a hand on his daughter's shoulder. He looked every bit as stressed as he did successful, and though his voice carried warmth, there was an unmistakable undertone of concern.

Aoi smiled, nodding. "Don't worry, Papa. We have everything covered." She gestured subtly to the bodyguard standing nearby, dressed impeccably in a tailored black suit, his sharp eyes hidden behind dark sunglasses. Behind him were five maids and helpers, all neatly lined up, ready to serve during the trip.

Her father gave a faint smile, though Aoi could see the pride in his eyes. "Of course. Just enjoy your trip, and try not to think about training for once. You've earned this."

Momo, standing nearby, gave Aoi's father a polite bow. "We'll take care of her, uncle. It's going to be a wonderful vacation."

Shoto, ever stoic, gave his sister and mother a brief nod before he walked up the steps onto the plane, his usual silent assurance exuding an air of quiet confidence.

After final hugs and waves, the three friends boarded the private jet, ready to embark on their journey to the beautiful islands of Fiji.

Inside the plane, the atmosphere was vibrant. Plush leather seats, polished wood interiors, and soft lighting created an air of comfort and luxury. Momo, dressed in a fashionable yet comfortable sundress, glanced around approvingly.

"Leave it to Aoi to travel in style," she said with a grin as she sat down, crossing her legs elegantly. "This is nicer than some of the top-tier flights I've been on."

Aoi, already seated and sipping a drink prepared by one of the maids, laughed. "Perks of the family business," she said, winking. "But one can't complain, not when you get to enjoy places like this."

Shoto sat across from them, quietly reading a book. "The bodyguard is… a bit much," he commented dryly, his eyes flicking over Aoi's shoulder toward the man, who stood at attention nearby, his presence unobtrusive but unmistakable.

Aoi smirked. "Adam's just here to keep our parents at ease, don't worry. You'll barely notice him."

Momo leaned back in her seat, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I still can't believe we're going to Fiji! A week of pure relaxation and adventure."

The jet engines roared to life, and soon, they were airborne, leaving the city behind as the blue skies stretched out ahead of them. The friends chatted about their plans for the trip, teasing each other about who would be the best at various beach activities.

"You know," Aoi said, leaning forward with a grin, "there's a jet skiing course at the resort. I hope you're both ready to get soaked."

Momo raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "I'm more interested in the shopping. But I'll indulge in a little water sports—just to keep things balanced."

Shoto's lips twitched into the faintest of smiles. "I'll join… if you think you can keep up."

Aoi's eyes narrowed playfully. "Oh, it's on, Todo."

After a smooth flight, the plane began its descent toward the azure waters of Fiji. As they stepped out onto the tarmac, the balmy tropical air embraced them like a warm hug. The sprawling island resort stretched out in the distance, framed by pristine beaches and lush greenery.

"This is one of your resorts?" Shoto asked in awe as they were whisked away in a private car towards the heart of the island.

Aoi nodded, a glint of pride in her eyes. "One of many. My family's hotels are dotted around some of the most beautiful places in the world. You'll see why when we reach the restaurant for dinner tonight."

As they arrived at the resort, the grandeur of Aoi's family's empire became even more apparent. The main building was an architectural marvel, blending modern luxury with island charm. The staff greeted them with flower leis, and soon enough, they were settled in.

That evening, the trio dined at the resort's exclusive restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the ocean as the sun dipped below the horizon. Aoi under a sheer, flowing beach cover-up, gazed out at the stunning view, feeling a surge of pride.

"I've seen it a hundred times," she said, sipping her cocktail, "but it never gets old."

Shoto, leaning against the balcony railing, nodded in agreement. "It's impressive. You're lucky to have this kind of place."

Aoi smiled. "I know. And now it's your turn to enjoy it. Tomorrow, we hit the beach."

The next morning, the sun was high in the sky as Aoi, Momo, and Shoto made their way down to the private beach. Aoi had swapped her chic cover-up for a more active look: a stylish purple bikini that complemented her toned figure, perfect for the day of adventure ahead. Momo, ever fashionable, wore a patterned red bikini that was both elegant and practical for the beach, her long hair tied back in a playful ponytail.

"I didn't think you'd get me out here this early," Momo teased as they approached the beach, where kayaks and jet skis were waiting. "But this view is worth it."

Aoi laughed. "Told you. Now, who's ready for some jet skiing?"

Shoto, in his typical reserved manner, eyed the jet skis with a cool, competitive air. "I'll take one. Let's see who makes it back first."

The three of them set off across the crystal-clear waters, the roar of the jet skis echoing as they raced toward a distant sandbar. Aoi led the charge, her eyes focused as the wind whipped through her hair. Shoto wasn't far behind, his determination evident, while Momo, laughing gleefully, trailed just slightly.

After a thrilling ride, they returned to shore, breathless but exhilarated.

"That was amazing!" Momo said, her eyes alight with excitement as they hopped off the jet skis.

Aoi grinned. "And we're just getting started."

As they dried off and relaxed under a shaded cabana with lemonades in hand given by a nearby maid, a shadow suddenly fell over them. 

Aoi looked up to see two figures standing nearby—an athletic young man with tousled blond hair and a confident grin, and a woman with the same striking features but a more playful demeanor.

"Hey," the young man said, his American accent unmistakable. "Sorry to bother you, but my sister and I couldn't help but notice you guys out there. You were killing it on those jet skis."

Aoi, ever polite, smiled. "Thank you. And you are?"

"I'm Raiden Anderson, and this is my sister, Lumina," he said, nodding toward the woman beside him. "We were wondering… how about a game of beach volleyball? You three look like you could use some fun competition."

Lumina, smiling mischievously, nudged her brother. "He's just saying that because he thought you were cute," she teased.

Raiden flushed slightly, shooting her a glare. "Lumina!"

Aoi laughed, amused by the dynamic between them. "I see. Well, I never turn down a challenge. What do you say, Momo, Shoto?"

Momo, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm, clapped her hands. "I'm in! I've been dying to try beach volleyball!"

Shoto, as usual, kept his expression neutral but nodded. "Sure. Let's do it."

As they all made their way toward the volleyball net, Aoi asked Lumina, "By the way, how did you know we can understand Japanese?"

Lumina smiled confidently and replied, "These days, thanks to All Might's global influence, it's not uncommon for people to understand Japanese, especially in Asia. So, it was a calculated guess. And as for us, we learned it as a secondary subject in elementary school. It's good to know both English and Japanese—two of the most widely used languages today."

Aoi smiled, impressed. "You've picked it up well. That's pretty amazing."

And so, as the sun continued to shine brightly over the island, the group prepared for a friendly match, their laughter and excitement filling the air—a perfect start to what was shaping up to be an unforgettable vacation.