[Closed] Dancin' in the Rain

[Niro]

Yoshinori lay sprawled on the wooden deck that wrapped around Shikari’s quiet house, tucked deep within the embrace of the Nara Forest. His chest rose and fell in steady heaves, sweat glistening across his skin as he caught his breath. Around him, the clearing bore the scars of another punishing training session: splintered training dummies, dulled kunai embedded in stumps, singed grass where chakra had scorched the earth. The grove had become his sanctuary, a quiet place where he could push himself to his limits and beyond.

Overhead, thick gray storm clouds drifted lazily across the sky, grumbling low with the promise of rain. He watched them silently, letting his muscles cool and the stillness settle over him. But then... His stomach growled loudly, breaking the quiet and coloring his cheeks with embarrassment. Well, that decided it. Lunch. He hadn't been shopping this week, and the pantry inside the house was nearly bare. He could scrape something together, sure, but the thought of cooking after a training session like that? No thanks. A warm bowl of ramen from the village sounded far more appealing, a small reward for the effort he’d poured into the day.

Rolling onto his side with a low grunt, Yoshinori pushed himself to his feet and stretched before stepping off the deck. His strides were slow as he made his way through the forest path, savoring the peace between the trees. As he walked, a familiar rustle caught his ear. From the brush, a small deer emerged, then another, ears flicking curiously. He smiled softly and knelt, reaching into the pouch he’d started carrying just for moments like this. Bits of dried feed tumbled into his palm, and the deer edged closer, cautious but trusting.

Since moving into Shikari’s long-empty home, Yoshinori had taken it upon himself to care for the forest’s quiet inhabitants. After all, he was the intruder here. Offering food felt like a quiet apology, and truthfully, these gentle encounters had begun to mean something to him. With a final pat to the smallest doe’s nose, he rose and continued his walk, a quiet hum playing on his lips. The sound was half tune, half thought, unformed but warm. As he neared the edge of the woods, he spotted movement ahead. The compound gates were opening, and someone was passing through.

His steps slowed. There was something familiar about the silhouette slipping beneath the canopy, and he tilted his head slightly, curiosity blooming into hope. His heartbeat picked up, just a little. Could it be...?

[Lunanana]

Tsuki’s hand slowly slid through her hair, fingers slipping from the silky strands and instead gently wrapping around the mission scroll on her desk. D-rank. She almost, almost smiled at the pettiness. Once Tsuki would’ve felt terrible, bullied but now it was so evidently petty that she couldn’t hide her amusement that well. It was a way to remind her of her place, surely, registering her for a mission to help set up the communal garden in one of the less fortunate parts of the village. What was funny is the way they didn’t know her at all – she liked it. She liked helping. It was not demeaning for her, it was empowering and it made her understand her true place in the world.

Something shifted inside of her for some time now. She was gentle, graceful, yes but also far more confident now, knowing what was at stake. She was still a kunoichi, therefore, they couldn’t keep her locked away – there was no meaning to that, she was an adult. Sure, they might look or follow and yet it didn’t matter all that much. Akito never ordered her to stay inside and not interact with the outside world. Placing a strand of her hair behind her ear, she took the scroll and checked the location again. Soon, Tsuki was ready to head out.

The twins stood by the gates and her gaze flicked between them. All three of them exchanged icy looks, before they opened the gates with a loud creak. She took a few more hurried steps out, breathing out the tension and finally able to look beyond the tall stone walls. She leaned forward, fixing her weapon pouch more tightly around her hip only to suddenly freeze in place. Him! Surely, she knew that chakra signature better than hers. Tsuki’s back straightened slowly, catching the silhouette at the edge of the forest. Her heart was skipping beats but she knew she couldn’t just run up to him, not now.

Instead, she started her trek to the village center, picking up her pace once the compound was far enough. Still visible but far. Somewhere in the distance thunder rumbled and it seemed that half of the population collectively decided to leave and get home. She tried to get through only to find herself slipping into a narrow alleyway. Tsuki blinked and now she was seeing everything through her doujutsu, looking for Yoshinori.

Nearing the crowd… Taking the roof… Back down… Cornering the wall… Her breath hitched. She stood there, waiting, those few seconds of him appearing before her stretching to an eternity.

[Niro]

Yoshinori approached the Nara compound gates at a brisk pace, a subtle anticipation in his step, until his gaze landed on a stranger speaking with the guards. The visitor bowed politely, then disappeared in the direction of the main house. Yoshinori’s smile faltered, his heart sinking just a little as gray clouds above mirrored the shift in his mood. He sighed quietly, a wistful note in his chest, and gave the guards a small wave as he passed through. They returned it wordlessly.

The moment he stepped outside the compound, thunder rolled low and distant, a warning rumble from the sky. The streets of Konoha were quieter than usual, most people likely hurrying indoors before the storm broke. Yoshinori didn’t mind, if anything he welcomed the space, the solitude. It suited his wandering thoughts. He turned toward the ramen stand, already picturing the warm broth and savory steam rising in front of him. But then...

Something caught his eye. A flash of raven hair. Lilac eyes peeking from behind a corner. That unmistakably delicate nose he could never forget. His breath caught in his throat, and then he broke into a grin so wide it lit up his whole face. Tsuki. She was watching him from the shadows of the alleyway like a secret waiting to be discovered. Without thinking, he jogged over, nearly tripping over his own eagerness, and pulled her into a joyful embrace, arms wrapping snugly around her waist. He spun her once, just enough to feel her laugh against him, before setting her gently back down.

“Hi, you,” he breathed, the words wrapped in affection and relief. A light laugh bubbled from him; soft, sweet, completely involuntary. His eyes scanned the nearby rooftops and corners out of instinct, making sure no one had followed her. Satisfied, he turned back to her, his smile still boyish and warm. “Would you care to join me for lunch?” he asked, only for his stomach to chime in at the worst possible moment with a loud growl and a furious blush painted his cheeks.

“…Training takes a lot outta me,” he mumbled, eyes darting away with a sheepish chuckle as he rubbed the back of his neck.

[Lunanana]

Tsuki giggled, holding a little tighter as he spun her, beaming and looking at him happily. She heard his tummy rumble and gasped, a light laughter following it after. ”Hey, you… Yes! Let’s get some food into you. Mmm…” She thought, tapping her finger on her lower lip and looking through his shoulder to the street. ”Oh, how about ramen?” She almost felt her own tummy rumble from the image of a hot bowl of ramen and they both began their trek to the ramen stand, hand in hand.

Once settled, Tsuki neatly placed her chopsticks on a folded tissue, patiently waiting for the food. Recently, she has been finishing her full portions, which made her even more eager for the food. ”I’m actually on a mission today.” She chimed, looking at him with a softer gaze and a faint blush to her cheeks. ”D-rank.” There was another soft chuckle and she leaned her cheek on her hand, staring at him lovingly. Like nothing existed besides him. Snapping out of it, Tsuki told him the goal of her mission and mentioned that she’ll need to stop by for some supplies later.

She leaned in, her voice more silent but excited. ”By the way… Kanako-san, my genin teammate, is solving a mystery…” There was a dramatic pause, curiosity and love for mysteries gleaming in her eyes. ”She’s looking for a location of the Fountainhead. I know, I know…” Tsuki leaned back again, smiling. ”I don’t know either. But it’s interesting.”

[Niro]

Yoshinori’s face lit up at the mention of ramen, eyes sparkling with childlike excitement. “I was actually headed to my favorite spot,” he said with a soft laugh, offering his hand to her without hesitation. She took it, fingers weaving with his, and the two of them slipped out of the alleyway hand-in-hand just as another low rumble of thunder rolled through the skies above. Their walk was unhurried, the air thick with the scent of oncoming rain. Yoshinori filled the time with casual updates; how Shinya had been doing, what strange things had happened since they’d last seen each other. His voice was animated, expressive, as if just being near her breathed new life into him. But the clouds above grew darker, and when a single, heavy raindrop landed on his forehead, he blinked in surprise and tilted his head up to the sky.

“We should probably run,” he said, grinning through his concern, and with that, they were off, racing through the emptying streets, laughter trailing behind them as the first sheets of rain began to fall. They ducked into the ramen stand just in time, brushing off droplets as the storm began to tap harder against the windows. The warmth of the shop enveloped them. Familiar staff greeted Yoshinori like an old friend, and both he and Tsuki quickly rattled off their orders. Clearly, they’d been thinking about ramen for a while. The place was quiet, cozy, nearly empty thanks to the weather. It felt like a moment stolen from the chaos outside.

Their bowls arrived, steaming and fragrant, and Yoshinori wasted no time diving in. The first bowl disappeared quickly, and as Tsuki began to speak, he pushed the empty bowl aside and gave her his full attention. At her words, though, his brow creased. “They assigned a jounin to a D-rank mission?” he muttered, frustration simmering just under his breath. Each day it became harder to hide just how deeply he despised the manipulations of her clan.

She held his gaze, calm and steady, and he returned it in kind until a second bowl of ramen was placed in front of him. Yoshinori blinked, looked up, and the staff member just shrugged knowingly. Blushing a little, he murmured a thanks and smiled sheepishly. “I, uh… come here a lot.” As Tsuki spoke about her genin team, he listened attentively, pausing only to eat as she described the elusive figure known as the Fountainhead. He tilted his head slightly. “Fountainhead?” he asked, curiosity sparking in his eyes. “What’s that?” Then a name came up that made him pause. “Kanako?” he repeated slowly, eyes narrowing in thought. “What’s her last name?” He chewed over the name like a puzzle piece, slowly beginning to place it.

[Lunanana]

Tsuki followed Yoshinori, attentively listening to him, smiling and laughing at Shinya’s shenanigans, as well as gasping at some of the more spooky stories he shared – spending your time near the forest could give way to a lot of imagination. At least she hoped it was! Tsuki tilted her head up as the clouds grew heavy above them and before she could tell how much she liked the rain, Yoshinori suggested a race. She clasped her hands together, the anticipation of a competitive run evident in her eyes as they both began racing. Just before they stopped at the store, Tsuki made sure to fall just a little behind and congratulate him on winning.

Tsuki blinked at Yoshinori’s shyness and she didn’t voice that in fact, she liked that he ate doubles, even triples if possible. It was a sign of a strong shinobi and more importantly, it gave her mind ease about his health. Tsuki made a mental note to cook more for Yoshinori – at least double of what she had. She almost stayed silent but caught herself just in the right moment. ”Oh, I like that you eat more. You need the energy. We’re… F-Family. So don’t hesitate to ever ask for doubles… Or more.” Her eyes flickered somewhere behind him then back to him, a shy smile appearing on her face along with a blush. Family.

”Oh, Fountainhead! Um, honestly, I’m not sure. It has to do with Tenkjutsu. It’s a spirit.” She slightly shrugged her shoulders – a sign that that was about her knowledge regarding this topic. Tsuki fully finished her bowl this time and when the waiter came to pick it up, she ordered another, smaller one. Not paying much mind to it, she rested her cheeks on her hand again, relaxed in his presence. ”Kanako mmm… Takamori Kanako. Why?” Now she was curious as well, leaning just slightly in, before the bowl was placed in front of her and she gladly dived in.

They finished their meals, and stood up, standing just outside, the small rooftop above them shielding from the heavy rain. Tsuki leaned to his side, their arms touching as she looked up. ”Are you busy? I’ll make sure to share the earnings of my D-rank, if you want to join…” She chuckled softly, both of them knowing that probably it would earn them just enough to get some ice cream.

[Niro]

Yoshinori blushed at her comment about family, a bright smile spreading across his face before he let out a soft laugh. The word lingered in his mind, warming something deep inside him, enough to momentarily erase the embarrassment of ordering another bowl of ramen. “Only after you’ve all eaten first,” he replied offhandedly, though the small, playful smirk tugging at his lips gave away the truth behind the words. As much as he could eat, the idea of sitting comfortably while she and the twins went without didn’t sit right with him.

His lightheartedness dimmed at the mention of a spirit. His brow furrowed slightly, thoughts drifting to the few spirits they'd encountered on past missions, none of them particularly peaceful. He still remembered the baku, its gaping mouth filled with exploding tags before it could vanish, and the mountain spirit Tsuki had managed to seal with the monks’ help. Each encounter had left its mark. Friendly spirits? He hadn’t seen one yet. And the idea of her facing one without him stirred a sharper unease, one different from the quiet worry he’d grown used to carrying lately.

Then she mentioned her teammate’s name, and a flicker of recognition sparked behind his eyes. He leaned over his bowl, chewing slowly, lost in thought. “I… I know that name,” he said slowly, brows drawing together as he tried to grasp the memory. “It’s right there, on the tip of my tongue…” He sighed in quiet frustration, unable to place it just yet. Thankfully, a small second bowl was placed in front of Tsuki, and he smiled at the sight. She usually gave him her leftovers; it was good to see her eating more, especially now. The two of them ate in easy silence, filling the quiet between bites with soft conversation about their days. Outside, the storm still raged, but inside the ramen shop, it felt like the world had paused just for them.

Later, they stood beneath the awning, watching the rain continue to fall in gentle sheets. The thunder had drifted far into the distance, leaving only the soft rhythm of rainfall behind. Tsuki leaned into him, and Yoshinori instinctively wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. He glanced down at her with a gentle smile. “For as long as you’ll have me,” he murmured, “I’m all yours today.” He leaned in and pressed a quick, tender kiss to her lips, warm and light.

When he pulled away, his gaze caught on a bin filled with umbrellas near the shop door. Without missing a beat, he reached for one, violet, and opened it with a quick flick of his wrist. Holding it carefully above her head, he turned to her again and offered his arm. “Shall we?” he asked, voice soft, warm. Together, they stepped into the rain, a world of soft gray mist and blooming puddles ahead of them and just the two of them beneath a violet umbrella, walking side by side.

[Lunanana]

Her eyes drifted upwards, looking at the violet umbrella above them. The soft smile on her lips portrayed her acceptance of the color and her hands slid on his elbow as they walked together in the pouring rain. The soft pattering accompanied by the crunching gravel under their feet were relaxing and Tsuki hesitated breaking that moment of peace.

”You know, I like the rain. Not because of the sound but because it scares others away and the streets are empty when it’s raining. You can exist somewhere with no disturbance.” She finally said as they were nearing the gardens. After some back and forth between them they first decided to check in – the rain was heavy and no garden work was usually done in it. Best case scenario they would have the time for themselves. Tsuki gently squeezed Yoshinori’s elbow at the thought, never voicing it, just portraying her excitement of being together a little longer.

As they stopped by the communal space, lightning flashed and thunder ripped the sky apart, seemingly above their heads. Both of their eyes were now fixed on a small wooden hut. Wooden pallets were carefully placed on the porch, some gardening supplies layed, waiting for better weather. They took the small three steps up and Tsuki gently knocked on the door, waiting for someone to answer. Her head tilted to the side slightly, trying to hear if someone was there. She didn’t like using her doujutsu – that was too invasive! Besides, knocking works to know if someone was willing to interact with you or not. Suddenly, the door opened and an elderly woman looked them both up and down.

”There’s nothing you can do in this downpour. Come back tomorrow.”
”O-Oh, hello, perhaps there is something we can help with? We could make some flowerbeds from the planks?” Tsuki inquired politely.
”Tomorrow.”

The door closed and she was left there with her mouth open, ready to speak. Capturing her bottom lip between her teeth, she turned to Yoshinori, faint blush already painting at the tops of her cheeks. ”Well… Tomorrow, I guess!” She almost chuckled – one way to ruin a gardener’s mood was to deny the joy of planting and digging soil, it seemed. Wrapping both of her hands around his arm and looking up, she spoke again. ”Have you heard the tale about the fern flower?” She asked, a playful smile already on her lips. ”It’s a legend from the overseas… It is said that a fern grows a white flower on the summer solstice, and if you find it you’ll be either lucky for a long time or immortal. Somehow the reward varies from book to book.” She was chuckling now, obviously implying that there is no such thing as the fern flower. She was just offering to spend time together in the forest while it rained.

[Niro]

Yoshinori nodded, a soft smile tugging at his lips as her words sank in. Then, in his usual thoughtful way, he added, “I get that. Rain always makes me feel… a little separate from everything else. Like the drops form a veil between me and the rest of the world and for a little while, I can just be, without worrying what anyone thinks.” His voice was low, almost reverent, the steady rhythm of rain on their umbrella echoing the quiet calm between them. It was a kind of peace he rarely found, but cherished when it came.

His smile faltered as they reached the communal garden. Worry pinched his brows as he took in the soggy soil and puddles forming between the rows; there’d be no work done in this weather. But Tsuki was right. At the very least, they could check on things. Play it off like they were being responsible… even if the truth was that neither of them minded an excuse to be together. He held the umbrella steady above her as she made her way up the steps, not even flinching when the rain began to soak his hair and shoulders. He waited with the quiet patience she knew so well, water trailing down his cheeks in rivulets.

When the woman shut the door firmly on Tsuki’s polite request, Yoshinori let out a low chuckle. The sound deepened as Tsuki looped her arms through his, her warmth pressing into his side. He tilted his head to listen as she began to share a story, one he didn’t expect but instantly leaned into. “No, love,” he murmured, shaking his head gently as water droplets scattered from his hair and clung to his lashes. “I can’t say I have… but...”

“I do remember seeing a few ferns back near the forest,” he added with a crooked smile, clearly teasing despite her already being attached to him. His chuckle was soft, affectionate, and he started walking them in the direction of the woods, the rest of the world fading behind them. Just trees, quiet, and the gentle sound of their steps through the rain. “Immortality or good luck, huh?” he echoed, turning her words over in his mind like a cherished trinket. “I think I’d choose good luck. What’s forever worth if you’re not with me in it?”

[Lunanana]

Tsuki giggle, looking away, still blushing. ”I am sorry to inform you that that is just a myth… However, your clever remark aside, I don’t think immortality is a good choice either.” She contemplated for a moment, as they walked into the forest. ”There’s only so much you can learn and see… What happens then? When you fulfill everything? Having a deadline just seems more… Real. Worth it.”

Tsuki extended her hand, palm to the sky, checking the intensity of the rain. It was soft and barely there in the dense forest and she gently slipped out of his grasp, taking a few steps off the beaten path, looking. ”Mmm… I’ve never brought my ointment equipment back to the Nara house. I’ll do it someday.” It seemed a mundane conversation but between the lines she was promising him to come back. She knew he caught it, so she smiled at him before lowering herself and pulling some of the shrubbery aside, checking for herb sprouts. After this heavy rain, they will definitely grow and be just right for harvesting.

It didn’t take long for her to come back to his side, her hair now clinging to her skin, both equally damp. He from before and she just now. Tsuki gently brushed some raven strands from his eyes, her fingers lingering on his skin for just a moment longer than they should’ve. ”How is your training going? You’ll still have to show me that amazing new technique of yours.”

[Niro]

“The next time you come by to train,” Yoshinori teased gently, a playful spark in his eyes, “I’ll make sure to have something that needs a little ointment too.” His tone was light, but beneath it was the quiet promise, unspoken but understood, that he would always be there when she found the freedom to slip away from the Hyuuga compound again. As she brushed the wet hair from his eyes, his smile softened, grateful for her touch. Without thinking, he lifted his free hand and tucked a damp strand of raven-black hair behind her ear, his fingers lingering for just a moment.

“Gods, you’re beautiful,” he murmured, the words slipping from his lips before he could stop them. The flush that touched his cheeks was genuine, and he laughed quietly under his breath, caught off guard by his own honesty. Before the moment could pass, he shifted slightly, glancing up at the overcast sky. “Before we head back to the house…” he began, his voice lilting with something playful and light. The thunder was distant now, more memory than presence, and the lightning hadn’t flashed in some time.

Without a word, he stepped to the side, tilted the umbrella away, and let it fall softly next to a nearby tree. The rain still came, soft and steady, beading on his skin and soaking his shirt but he didn’t seem to notice. He extended his hand to her, palm up, rain streaming down his face like it belonged there. “Would you dance with me?” His voice was low and warm, not teasing this time but sincere, as the quiet forest wrapped around them like a secret. The rain fell around them, steady and rhythmic, like the softest kind of music, just enough for a moment that didn’t need words.

[Lunanana]

Tsuki froze for a second, feeling the heat rise to her cheeks from the compliment. She stared at him for a moment longer, him recovering faster than her. As he extended his hand, Tsuki hesitated for a second. Million thoughts ran through her mind, most of them consisting of stepping on his toes or tripping over. Her hands unconsciously receded to her chest, where she held them clenched into fists and was about to politely refuse.

With who else, if not with him? She gently laid her hand on his, and followed his movement to rest the other on his shoulder. She knew how to dance but she was usually unsuccessful in it, mainly because she refused to follow her partner’s lead, resulting in all of the fears she just thought about. It was the will of her spirit that manifested but now, it was different, wasn’t it?

Her eyes closed, as she relaxed her muscles, Yoshinori’s hand warm and steady on her back, guiding her. Finally her eyes opened, looking at him with a soft gaze, feeling light in his arms. ”I didn’t know- Oh!” Tsuki looked up, thunder rumbling above them, as the rain picked up again. It didn’t really matter, both of them were already soaked – Tsuki’s laugh echoed through the forest. There was a certain rawness to the moment and as they both stilled, she tiptoed, inhaling his scent, her arms wrapping tightly around Yoshinori’s neck. His scent was earthy, fresh and beneath all that – still his.

[Niro]

Tsuki’s expression flickered with hesitation at his invitation but Yoshinori didn’t rush her. He simply waited, quietly offering his hand with a patient smile. After a heartbeat, her fingers slipped into his, fitting as naturally as breath, and his heart lifted at her silent yes. His other hand slid around her waist, resting gently at the small of her back as he pulled her in closer. Raindrops glistened against her hair, and for a moment, the world stilled and it was just the two of them wrapped in the hush of the forest and the rhythm of falling rain.

They began to move together, swaying slowly beneath the trees as if the rain itself had choreographed the dance for them. The canopy above filtered the gray light, and the gentle drizzle became their own quiet audience, indifferent to the fact that they were getting drenched to the bone. When Tsuki began to speak, a low rumble of thunder rolled overhead, cutting her off. Her laugh rang out in response: bright, spontaneous, and utterly infectious. Yoshinori’s chest shook with his own laughter, droplets scattering from his hair as he tilted his head back. Her arms found their way around his neck, and when he looked down again, the moment pulled him in completely.

He kissed her, soft and unhurried, like the rain, like the silence, like a promise spoken without words. The next crack of thunder was closer now, and with clear reluctance, Yoshinori pulled back, his forehead resting gently against hers for just a second longer. “The storm’s coming back,” he murmured, brushing a stray lock of wet hair from her cheek. “Let’s get home before it gets worse.” Their fingers found each other again, and he scooped up the forgotten umbrella in one hand. “Last one back has to give Shinya his next bath,” he teased with a grin, already starting to jog ahead. The house peeked through the branches ahead, but all that mattered in that moment was the sound of shared laughter chasing through the rain.

[Lunanana]

Her eyes closed, jealous of the lips receiving the kiss. Tsuki almost pouted when he pulled away but decided against it and soon her face was lighting up again, a smile appearing on her lips. With a nod, she accepted his invitation to go home. Home? Now she was smiling to herself. How natural and easy it felt. Light and sweet. Soon he was already jogging ahead but Tsuki waited for a moment. She couldn’t stay, at least not long… And it ate at her. She couldn’t wait for everything to be sorted. Yoshinori’s frame was receding further away and she bursted into a run herself.

It didn’t take long to catch up and when she did, she ran by his side for some time, something devious and at the same time very honest brewing in her mind. He teased her too much for his own good and maybe it was time for a little payback. ”You know, Yoshinori… I think you’re very handsome. And… I do think of you in the shower.” Against her better judgement, she was the one that turned crimson first. Without saying anything else, not like she could at the moment, Tsuki rushed forward, racing him. While she was still a tad bit faster, Yoshinori was not far behind, which didn’t help with her blush or embarrassment either. She didn’t think through what will happen when they eventually arrive either.

In truth, she saw him everywhere – her eyes would drift to one side or the other, hoping to see a speck of blue in her peripheral vision while training, more than once she took out two bowls for food and had to put one back with a frown, she even started sharpening her kunais like he did, instead of soft strokes, she’d do a few quick ones, just because it reminded her of him. Her deepest desires, most vulnerable pieces, all intertwined with him. And it was okay.

Her mind was so preoccupied that she didn’t even notice she was already standing in front of the house. Neatly placing her hands together and straightening her back she waited. It will only take a few minutes.

[Niro]

Yoshinori knew he’d need the head start against his little speed demon. Tsuki had always been faster, ever since they had first met, and she closed the gap between them with ease despite his best efforts to gain ground. He laughed, breathless, when she matched pace beside him like it was nothing. His focus stayed fixed on the path, determined not to give Shinya a bath, but Tsuki’s next words caught him completely off guard.

His steps faltered. His jaw dropped. And his face lit up in a shade of red so vivid it nearly blurred his vision. Tsuki took off again, leaving him in stunned silence as his mind reeled. He stumbled over a tree root, just barely keeping his footing, his thoughts spinning with the boldness of her confession. Heart pounding, both from the race and from something far more dangerous, Yoshinori chased after her through the rain-soaked forest feeling light, giddy, and completely overwhelmed in the best way.

When he finally caught sight of her waiting at the edge of the house, his laughter bubbled up despite himself. He burst through the trees and skidded to a stop in front of her, breath catching as the sight of her brought the moment crashing back in full. Disbelief still lingered on his face, even as a grin tugged at his lips. Slowly, he approached, shaking his head with a smirk that didn’t reach the stunned, adoring look in his eyes. Once he had her cornered with her back against the outer wall, he raised an arm beside her head, leaning in close, his voice teasing but filled with warmth.

“You think about me… in the shower?” he murmured, brow raised in faux innocence, though the amused sparkle in his eyes betrayed him. His other hand gently tilted her chin upward, his thumb brushing just beneath her jaw. “Oh, Tsuki…” he whispered with a breathless chuckle as he dipped his head, capturing her lips with his in a slow, smoldering kiss. His tongue teased lightly at the seam of her mouth before he trailed gentle kisses along her jaw, his lips brushing the sensitive spot just beneath her ear.

“Not fair,” he whispered, voice low and warm against her skin. He leaned back just enough to meet her eyes, the playful smirk still tugging at his mouth but now tempered by affection that ran far deeper than words. “Shall we go inside?”

[Lunanana]

Tsuki heard him before she saw him, turning her head and then her body at his direction but Yoshinori was faster. Her eyes widened at his sudden appearence, subconsciously taking a step back already, as fire danced in his eyes. The look on his eyes made her loose her breath, as she continued walking backwards, gasping when her back leaned to the wall. She was ready to escape, run, hide somewhere with Shinya to forget her boldness just before but his hand grounded her, keeping her still in place.

Tsuki practically melted into his kiss, her gaze softening and eyes finally closing. He knew what he was doing and he was succeeding, yet as Yoshinori pulled away, she lowered her head for a moment, breathing in and then looking back at him with a gaze that surely kept him guessing. ”I can't stay for long."

Tsuki's eyes trailed away, as a reaction to his fairness assesement. ”What's not fair is you giving me a compliment and then I have to catch my breath for a minute, also you looking at me like that, I-I can't help myself!" Her facial expression did seem a little agitated yet her voice betrayed that she was in no way seriously accusing him of this. Tsuki's hands gently wrapped around his waist, shifting the weight just a little so they changed places. She looked up at him, eyebrows still furrowed. ”And the way you say my name, it drips like honey from your lips. Not to mention you noticing my needs and giving me space when I need it..." Her face relaxed slowly, realization dawning on her that she was in fact not at all angry at any of this. ”I guess... What I'm trying to say is that I love you and I notice what you do for me, Yoshinori."

She breathed out slowly, stabilizing her heartbeat that was going heywire. Leaving a soft kiss like a promise on his cheek, Tsuki slowly pulled away, taking a few steps to the door. ”...I'm sorry. I got a little overwhelmed, I find it... Um. I'm sorry." It was indeed getting harder to control her emotions and something told her it had something to do with her stomach. Or, rather, the inhabitants there.

”I want to show you something..."

[Niro]

Yoshinori was quietly taken aback as Tsuki voiced her thoughts with such sudden intensity. For a moment, he worried she was truly upset until he found himself backed up against the wall, her presence close and commanding. A blush bloomed across his cheeks like wildfire, catching him completely off guard. He wasn’t used to being the one in this position; flustered, cornered, caught in someone else’s emotional gravity.

Still, her “rant” pulled a smile from him, especially when it ended with a playful kiss to his cheek. A soft laugh finally escaped him, half relieved, half enamored. “I love you too,” he replied, the words easy, sincere, and softened by an exaggerated sigh as he looked at her with quiet admiration. “And there’s nothing to apologize for. I’m right behind you.”

Together, they stepped inside, greeted immediately by an excited blur of fur, whiskers, and insistent meows. Yoshinori bent down to scoop Shinya up but was met with a flurry of dramatic swats and a flick of the tail before the cat darted off, clearly having his own agenda. Yoshinori chuckled at the display and began peeling off his soaked boots near the door before disappearing briefly down the hall. He returned moments later with not just towels, but also a fresh change of clothes. He’d remembered the mission gear Tsuki had left behind on one of her past overnights when she’d walked out the door the next morning in one of his smaller shirts instead. He had dressed simply: navy sweatpants slung low on his hips, and a snug black T-shirt that fit a bit tighter these days thanks to his training.

Leaning against the doorway to the hall, he held up the spare clothes for her with an easy smile. “Shower’s yours if you want it,” he offered gently. “I’ll toss your stuff in the wash and have it dry for next time.” His voice was casual, but the softness in his eyes made the moment feel like a quiet promise that she was always welcome here, soaked clothes and all.

[Lunanana]

Tsuki followed the Shinya with her eyes, amusement evident in her pale eyes. ”Such a good kitty… Oh!” Tsuki chuckled softly, watching the cat dart away. ”Cats… They’ll never tell you they miss you. But I’d take this display as a compliment.” Yoshinori disappeared for a moment and upon his return, her eyes widened slightly, surprise and admiration playing on her face. He saved it, took care of it and got it ready for next time… Tsuki slowly extended her hands, gently taking the clothing from him and smiling widely, gaze softening as she looked at him. ”Thank you… I really appreciate it.” She stood there for a moment longer, lingering, still taken a little aback. It was one thing when they’d do it at the compound, it was their job but here… She wrapped one arm around his waist, stepping just a little closer and giving him a short but tighter hug.

Clutching the clothing to her chest, she walked away to change in the bathroom. While Tsuki was folding her damp clothing, the excitement was bubbling inside of her. She only noticed it herself a few days back, too. Her shower was quick and she came back to the living room with a smile, gently finding his hand and guiding him to the sofa. ”I want to show you something…” Tsuki echoed her previous sentence as she slowly climbed on the sofa, turning around so she could lay down. ”I only noticed it recently and… Well, it only shows at the end of the day, when I’m more tired but…” She slowly slid her hands under her undershirt, pulling it upwards just enough to reveal her belly. There was a very small but evident bump there in contrast to her usually flat and trained stomach. ”It’s there! Small… But there!” Staring at the bump herself, her smile still evident, she slowly looked up at him too, love spelled in her eyes.

[Niro]

“Always,” Yoshinori murmured, wrapping his arms around Tsuki as she embraced him. He leaned down to press a soft kiss to the crown of her head, savoring the quiet warmth of the moment. As she stepped away to shower, washing off the rain and lingering humidity of Konoha, another idea sparked in his mind. He made his way to the freezer and pulled out a thick block of ice he’d purchased earlier from a vendor in the marketplace. With careful hands, he placed it into a large bowl on the counter, then retrieved two cups from the cabinet. He set to work shaving the ice down, the chilled flakes gathering like fresh snow to create a simple, refreshing treat. As the soft rhythm of water echoed from the bathroom, he smiled to himself, timing everything just right to surprise her.

He was nearly finished when the water shut off. "Damn it," he muttered under his breath, hurrying to the fridge for the final touches, flavored syrups chilled and waiting. He kicked the fridge door shut behind him, drizzling the lemon and strawberry toppings just in time as Tsuki appeared at the end of the hallway, freshly showered and glowing.

But before he could offer her the surprise, she took his hand and led him quietly to the sofa. Yoshinori followed with a puzzled look, crouching beside her as she eased back onto the cushions. The confusion lingered until she slowly lifted her shirt to reveal the faintest of curves on her stomach. His breath caught. Yoshinori’s lips parted in awe, eyes shining like stars as he gazed at the subtle rise in her skin. He glanced up at her, back down to the bump, and then again, his mind struggling to catch up with his heart. “Yeah… they are,” he whispered, his voice soft and reverent. He reached out with a trembling hand, letting his fingertips gently rest on the delicate curve, overcome with wonder.

“I can’t wait to meet them,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to the bump with a reverence that made even the silence feel sacred. Then, with a breathless laugh, he plopped backward onto the floor, his gaze never leaving hers, his face lit with a stunned, joyful smile. And then, he remembered. His eyes widened in mock horror. “No!” he gasped dramatically as he scrambled up and rushed back to the kitchen, returning moments later with two cups of lovingly prepared shaved ice. One sparkled with strawberry syrup, the other with lemon.

He handed her the lemon one like it was a treasure. “Every time we try to enjoy some ice cream, something ruins it,” he said, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips. “So this time… I made sure nothing could.”

[Lunanana]

Tsuki froze, his wish to meet them echoing in her head. It was all beautiful and cheerful now but… There was an inevitable moment coming, which she didn’t really think about. She blinked, sucking in her lips slightly. ”Well, there’s still… Loads of time… Haha…” Her voice was weak as she sat up again, pinching her index finger. Aside from carrying them, which she was not too worried about, there will be a moment where they will meet the world and it was honestly terrifying. She gulped, watching Yoshinori hurry to the kitchen. She won’t voice her concerns now.

Tsuki beamed, looking at the delicious treat in front of her. She took it with both of her hands, offering him a thankful nod and placed a spoonful in her mouth, closing her eyes as the bliss of citrusy flavor revealed in her mouth. ”Thank you, this is perfect!” She cheerfully declared, diving in again and curling up on the sofa, the faint sound of the rain filling the space as white noise. ”Do you want to try mine?” Tsuki said, already scooping a spoon for him and slowly leaning in, her other hand resting on his knee for support. As he did, she nodded with a smile and leaned back to her cup, finishing the dessert off.

Taking both of the cups she moved to the kitchen, turning the tap and cleaning them thoroughly. ”There’s another mission in the registry. Escort.” Her hand trailed to the kitchen towel with practiced ease, already knowing where it was located without looking, as she began to dry the cups. ”...To Suna, from Konoha.” She lifted her head up, finding his eyes.

[Niro]

Yoshinori sank onto the couch beside Tsuki, the quiet hum of rain tapping against the windows as the last traces of their laughter lingered. He dipped his spoon into his own shaved ice while distant thunder rolled lazily across the sky. His mind briefly wandered to tomorrow; mundane chores like cleaning up the yard from today’s training session, only to tear it up again later. For once, it felt like a normal worry in a normal world, not the heavy blade of uncertainty constantly hanging over them.

A gentle nudge broke him from his thoughts, Tsuki offering him a bite of her shaved ice. He smiled and held out his own cup in return. They shared spoonfuls like quiet secrets, and he puckered with mock betrayal as the tart citrus hit his tongue. “Lemon’s dangerous,” he joked, laughing at himself while returning to the strawberry sweetness in his own cup. They fell into a comfortable silence, the kind that only came with trust and affection, finishing the treats side by side. When Tsuki stood to take the empty bowls, Yoshinori opened his mouth to protest but the faucet was already running before he could say a word. Smiling to himself, he followed her into the kitchen, motioning for the rinsed cups so he could at least put them away.

“A mission down south, huh?” Yoshinori leaned casually on the counter, his expression thoughtful. He pictured the desert routes near Suna and the steady stream of travelers braving the rocky borders. “Sounds good to me. It’ll be easy enough, probably just someone visiting family. Plus, a few days away from the village doesn’t sound half bad.”

He looked over at her, a glint of amusement lighting up his face. “I finally remembered where I knew Kanako’s name from,” he said, grinning. “Turns out her dad, Saigo, delivered me. He and my father go way back, he’s the whole reason Saigo ever ended up in Konoha. We actually ran into each other after a mission a while back. He’s kind of a big deal at the hospital now.” Yoshinori didn’t voice all the meaning behind that meeting, the relief, the support, the subtle promise of help if he ever needed it, but it lingered in the fondness of his tone.

“Speaking of friends,” he added with a teasing look in her direction, “this escort wouldn’t happen to be your friend Momo going home, would it?” His voice was light, but there was a warmth there too, an unspoken appreciation for the little circle of people who shaped their story in quiet, important ways.

[Lunanana]

She leaned to another counter herself, listening to Yoshinori and putting away the kitchen towel. She smiled, glad that he received the mission with such ease. In truth, Tsuki’s never been to Suna, yet she heard so many things of that village that she was eager to lay her own eyes on the sand dunes. Maybe they could even play their cards right to get more time together there as well. ”My clan can do nothing to a Jounin and being a part of the jounin team I am entitled to go on any missions I want to go or that are assigned to me. It just happens that the person has requested us specifically.”

Tsuki’s head slightly tilted, she was curious. ”He delivered you? Oh… Yes, she is learning ways of medical ninjutsu too.” She slowly tapped her finger on her lips, in thought. ”I do remember a doctor by the name, it was all hush hush at the compound. He delivered some Hyuuga babies as well.” Tsuki gasped, placing her hands on her face, hiding from the outside world. Slowly, she parted her fingers to peek at him. ”I’m very scared of delivery… It’s still long until but…!” She took a few steps forward, placing her forehead to his chest, her hands still on her face, hiding in the safest place she knew.

”Oh…” She slowly lifted her head, her hands now placed on his chest, looking at him with surprise, amusement and affection now. ”Oh, what a smart man… Yes. It is Momo.” Not like this whole mission was a set up to make Tsuki and Yoshinori spend more time together. The Hokage himself didn’t even bat an eye in accepting this request and Tsuki could’ve jumped into clouds when she heard the plan is a go. Aside from some stray bandits, there was nothing to worry about on the road. Hopefully.

”I need to go… But if everything is alright, we can leave the day after tomorrow.” There was a lingering sadness to her words, the notion of separating again was becoming more and more unbearable. Her eyes darted to his lips then back at him, as she snuggled to him one more time.

[Niro]

Yoshinori couldn’t help the warm laugh that escaped him at Tsuki’s admission it was Momo they’d be escorting. Of course it was. The moment she’d mentioned Suna, he’d felt that familiar tug at the back of his mind. There was no way he’d forget the girl who helped them during that festival night. “Thank you,” he said with a smile that reached his eyes, “I do listen when you talk, you know.”

He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close against him. The moment lingered, quiet and comforting; his embrace a wordless promise that he’d always be listening, always be there. His thoughts briefly turned to the mission ahead, what to pack and whether he could shift tomorrow from training to a rest day, but the plans fell away as he remembered the reality of her curfew. The Hyuuga clan’s expectations were always looming, and pushing boundaries too far, too often, wasn’t worth the risk.

“You’re right,” Yoshinori murmured, the corners of his mouth tugging down for just a second. But then Tsuki’s gaze shifted, and his frown softened into something more playful, more tender. “Let’s get you back to the edge of the forest.” He leaned in slowly, capturing her lips in a kiss that spoke of patience and longing, of soft goodbyes and the promise of tomorrows. Outside, the rain continued to fall in a gentle hush, cloaking the world in a quiet stillness as if time had slowed just for them for one more moment. Just the two of them wrapped in warmth before parting ways again.