Summary: Ino has always thought of Shikamaru as an important friend, but after the two of them go on a mission alone, she realizes her feelings for him have become stronger. *Love, drama and of course some humour included (Maybe some lemon?)*
Chapter One - Together
"What about Choji?"
Tsunade shook her head. "He's in the hospital again with another terrible stomach ache." Shikarmaru let out a soft chuckle. "Again?"
She simply nodded. "But nevertheless, I think you and Ino will be able to successfully handle this mission alone as a two man cell. All you need to do is deliver these documents back to the Kazekage."
Shikamaru left Tsunade's office with both of his hands shoved into his pockets. Above, the clouds were rolling by slowly in a bright sky. Those Genin days of cloud watching were over now. He shifted his gaze forward, receiving friendly smiles from most. Smiling, he closed his eyes as he continued. Such peace. This was Konoha; this was his home.
"UGH. I can't believe you!" She shouted back, with pale blond whipping over shoulder.
"You don't understand anything!" A sound of a loud slam echoed.
Shikamaru came to a halt a few meters away. Ino was standing outside of the Yamanka flower shop, with a frown plastered across her face. To most, it wouldn't make her seem that unapproachable, but he knew that look all too well.
Shikamaru studied her from afar, debating whether or not he could escape this situation. Before he could decide, it was too late and baby blue eyes were staring into his.
"What's with that look on your face, Shikarmaru?" She folded her arms across her chest.
Shikamaru scratched the back of his head while letting out an inaudible sigh. *Geez, I could have avoided this. I should've left when I had the chance*
"Hmm, it's nothing. You just look very distraught, so I wasn't sure if it was a good time to chat."
"Yeah, I am upset and for a good reason too! Men are so insensitive!"
Shikamaru raised an eyebrow. *And the rant begins* "What happened?" He asked nonchalantly. "Boyfriend troubles?"
As soon as he saw Ino glowering, he froze.
Surprisingly, she let out a loud sigh. "Seriously, Shikamaru, I would never get this hell-bent over some stupid guy." He remained quiet, but nodded politely. "The reason I'm so pissed is because of my father!"
"How come?" He clenched his jaw as he awaited her response.*Geez. This is why women are so troublesome. One wrong word and they'll be at your throat*
"Ok, well FIRST he has the audacity to pry into my love life out of the blue…"
*Are you sure this is really such a big deal? Don't say that out loud, don't say that out loud…* Shikamaru shrugged. "And then?"
"And then, he asks whether or not I've decided it was you or Chouji that I wanted to date! You can you believe that?! It's as if he thinks I'm obligated to only choose between you two!"
Shikamaru's eyes widened slightly. "Inoichi said that?"
Ino didn't seem to notice his awkward response and continued to complain. "Yeah, what a jerk, right? God, dads are so annoying! I wish he would just leave me alone!"
As soon as she said it, Ino felt the guilt wash over her. It was only for a brief moment, but she saw the pain and anger that flashed on his face.
"Ohh… Shikamaru, I…" Ino's voice trailed off as he cast his glance downwards.
"Anyway, we have a mission." He turned his back her. "I'll give you the details later on, we don't leave till the evening anyway." Shikamaru took long strides, leaving his blond companion in even more despair.
Ino could feel the tears welling up as he walked away. They quickly spilled and rolled down her flushed cheeks. She wiped them with the back of her hands as a sarcastic laugh escaped her lips. "I'm so stupid", she muttered to herself. "So fucking stupid."
What did you think? Please review. This is my first fanfic, so I would like some feedback :) please don't be too harsh! Thanks!