Alright so I'm not gonna lie this wasn't an originally planned chapter, but since I had to make some changes to balance out the series, I thought; why not?" So here you seeing an added sort of filler kind of chapter before we progress with the original story.
Couples- SasukexNaruto, slight NarutoxSakura, SaixSakura, ChojixIno, ShikamaruxTemari, KibaxKarui, LeexHinata and others...
Warnings- Violence, Language, Mpreg (Sort of), Boy Love
Disclaimer- Naruto belongs to Masashi Kishimoto
Uzumaki Blood
Episode 11- Blooming Artist
Little Aiko was once again by herself during lunch. She was sketching out the garden in front of her, coloring the beautiful plants. Ever since she started school, she has been having a little trouble fitting in because of her quiet nature. Plus, all the kids that she was friends with were either older or younger than her. None of the children she knew were in her grade, so she was often by herself too shy to approach anyone. As she was finishing up the drawing, a pair of girls caught her attention, both girls are in her class Kimura Mai and Okabe Ayaka walking along the path towards the academy. Mai has short silver hair and light blue eyes, Ayaka's hair was long and curly shade of dark maroon with dark brown eyes. They probably finished their lunches and were getting ready to go back to their classroom to wait for the bell.
Aiko was not sure why they caught her attention but the two were always laughing among themselves and got high marks on their exams and physical training. Mai was great with mental stuff while Ayaka was kind of a muscle head at times. But it did not mean they were popular with boys. For some reason, the boys had their eyes on her most of the time whenever the shinobi and kunoichi classes came together for spars. Aiko's not sure where this attention came from seeing how she kept to herself and did not talk. Could it really be looks alone that warrant such attention? The young girl was unsure. But all she knew was she wanted to get to know these two but was never sure how to approach them on her own. Usually people come to her but none of her classmates ever did. Which made her not sure if she was even wanted as a companion.
When they approached closer, she wanted to try to say hi, so she slowly raised her hand in attempt to wave her hand at them.
Both paused catching her movements.
Ayaka was the one to question the action, "Did you need something Aiko?"
Aiko tried to get the words out, a simple 'Hi'. But the words never left her lips and the longer they stared the more nervous she got. She quickly shook her head and ran away leaving her lunch box. When she was out of sight, she was covering her face with her sketch book feeling nothing but embarrassment course through her. Aiko knew when she graduated, she was not going to be in a squad with any of these girls seeing how three-man squads only had one kunoichi and two shinobis. But still she felt like if she didn't at least try to make one friend in class how was she ever going to talk to strangers to retrieve information on others? Or asset a situation?
She really felt lost.
XxX
Aiko was walking home with her older brother Hikaru. He was holding her hand as they both traveled towards their house, he always did this for her despite his urge to go train or hang out with Chouko after school. He never complained either. She really did love her brother. He was always so kind and patient with her.
"Big brother…" she muttered.
"Yes Ai?" he answered awaiting her question.
"How…. How do I talk to people…?"
"What do you mean?"
She tightened her grip on her bag she was holding, "Well whenever I'm in school I try to talk to my classmates but I always end up running away before I even say anything…I thought it would be easy… But it's really hard big brother."
"That makes sense."
"Hm?"
"Well you've always been surrounded by family since we were little. Plus, your usually quiet Ai. So, it makes sense your having trouble with this."
"How can I be better?"
"Well I wish I had an answer, but I don't. I have never been good with other people. But my situation is different than yours, so I am also not the best guy to ask this kind of advice."
"I see…"
"But it's not like you'll never make friends. If you keep at it and try your best, you'll get there. It's just going to take a lot of effort on your part." Hikaru used his free hand to pat her head, "Don't sweat it if you don't succeed nothing ever comes easy Ai. But if you work hard it'll pay off in the end."
She nods giving her brother a smile, "Thanks big brother…" She still needs to figure out how to approach this, but she'll get there. She just needs to try harder, just like her brother advised.
XxX
Aiko just walked inside her class looking at the group of girls chatting around them. They all had already found their group of people and stuck with them during small breaks between classes and lunch. But the same pair of girls she tried to talk to yesterday were in the front of the class where they usually sat, and Aiko slowly made her way there. Before she sat down near them, she gave herself an internal pep talk and slid inside the desk a little closer to them than usual. She was going to try and not give up, she wants to do this, to be friends with someone in her class.
She worked herself up to speak, "U-Um…"
Both Mai and Ayaka turned towards her, surprised by her presence.
Aiko spoke again, "G-Good morning…" she's quiet but loud enough so they both can heard her.
Ayaka realized how much energy that greeting took for her and she simply smiled with a gentle, "Good morning Aiko."
Mai nodded, "Morning." They both turned back conversing with themselves.
Aiko sighed it wasn't perfect, but she was able to talk to them at least. She decided to go in her bag to grab her sketch book to sketch out some things before class starts.
XxX
It was lunch time when Hikaru was sitting on the roof with Chouko. They manage to lose Kai and Shikaji who were trying to follow. For some reason Shikaji has an odd fascination with his childhood friend. The blond suspects a crush, but he doesn't really care enough since the girl is clueless about it. As for Kai, he was just an idiot. Ever since Kai reveled his hidden relationship with his boyfriend Ryo Kurama, he has been a leech on Hikaru's side ever since. But he was slicker than them, so he wasn't going to get stuck with those two idiots while he unwinds with Chouko.
"So, anything new going on in class?" the brunette asked as she was munching on her fried rice.
The older boy shook his head, "Not really. Been kind of keeping a low profile, class has been super boring since I already know all this stuff."
"And who's fault does you think that is?" the girl smirked.
"Yeah, yeah. Only new thing really is Ai having trouble in school." He took a bite of his hamburger stake.
"Ai-chan? But I thought she was number two in her class?"
"She is."
"Then what's going on with her?"
"She's having trouble making friends."
"Oh…. Man... I wasn't expecting that at all. She's usually so friendly with everyone she meets. A lot better than a certain boy I know." She sighed crossing her arms.
"I tried the whole nice thing at school, and it ended with me having to beat up my senpais and deal with Netsu's bull for five years." The taller boy grumbled at the memory of his first awful day at school.
Chouko nods, "I guess you have always had rotten luck with other people besides me and your family."
"That's why I can't help but worry, people usually come to her. I don't want anyone to take advantage of her when she's just trying to be friends. She can sometimes be too nice for her own good." He sighed setting his food down staring towards the younger kunoichi compound.
The smaller girl smiled, "You're such a good big brother!"
The blond blushed looking away, "Come on let's hurry up before lunch is over."
"Changing the subject big brother?"
"Shut up Cho!"
She snickered at his embarrassment.
XxX
Even though Aiko said good morning she wasn't quite comfortable with trying to hang out with them just yet, so she ate from her spare lunch box since she lost her favorite one the other day after running away yesterday. She sighed embarrassed by the thought of her meek attempt. But she shook her head, she managed to greet the two this morning. She would be proud of that feat at least. It took patience to grow so she would do it slowly in till she can completely come out of her shell.
After she was done eating Aiko was now sketching a tree that had bright green leaves, it was such a vibrant color she couldn't help but be excited at the idea of coloring it in when she returns home today.
The young girl was caught off guard when she felt someone poke her back. She jumped leaping out of her seat turning around to find the familiar pair from this morning. Both girls looked shocked by her reaction, but they also tried working up some courage to approach her.
Aiko took a breath to try to calm herself.
Mai was the first one to say, "Um here." She pulled something out of her bag. It was her lunch box she left behind yesterday.
Aiko was shocked that they were nice enough to keep it safe for her, "Th-Thank you so much for finding that for me!" she bowed appreciating their kindness.
Ayaka shook her head, "It wasn't any problem Aiko. We didn't want it to get lost."
The silver headed girl looked away blushing, "I'm sorry for not giving it back this morning… I wasn't sure how to bring it up… You looked busy drawling…"
Aiko smiled taking a hold of her lunchbox now hugging it, "Thank you… I'm sorry for running away… I've never been good at saying hi to anyone… Most of my friends are older or younger than me… so I'm not used to be around so many new people…"
Ayaka smiled, "I see… that makes sense…"
Mai also gave a rare smile, "Me and Aya-chan are actually neighbors. So, we've always been together."
Ayaka nods, "Yeah… We're not so good with others either… But we always had each other so it never mattered to us."
Aiko understood now, they were just like her, shy with new people. But since they're always together they never had any issues.
She was going to be brave since they gathered the same courage to approach her, "So um… Would you both like to hang out with me…? I have been trying to talk to the both of you since I saw your both of your flower presentation…. It was so pretty…I wanted to say it, but I got too scared to say anything..."
Both girls looked at each other reading each one's thoughts before they nod their heads turning back to Aiko.
Mai gave a quiet, "Okay…."
While Ayaka shouted, "Of course you can!"
Aiko smiled blushing. She did it she made friends at school. She couldn't wait to have so many great memories with the two of them.
XxX
Aiko was walking along the path with Hikaru holding his hand while Chouko was walking beside the pair of siblings. The older kids couldn't help but notice the happy hums coming from the girl. She couldn't stop smiling all day after her she finally got to talk to Ayaka and Mai. The trio sat close talking to each other in till the end of lunch then they continued to talk till class sitting next to each other. They then said their goodbyes in the hallway since Aiko waits for Hikaru since she got out a little earlier than the older kids. She was swaying in the hallway, too giddy to draw which was rare for the creative girl.
Now she is skipping next to her brother with nothing but smiles on her face.
Chouko decided to investigate this cheerful nature, "So anything happened today Ai-chan?"
The girl in question nods giving a happy hum.
Hikaru curious as well, "So what exactly happened today Ai? Did you get to clean the rabbit's cage today?"
She shook her head, "No. I made some friends!"
Hikaru and Chouko both shocked seeing how Hikaru was just telling his best friend today how his little sister was struggling with that.
"Really that was fast Ai…"
Aiko blushes looking down now embarrassed by her giddiness, "Well… at lunch these really nice girls returned my lunch box that I thought I lost and I decided to tell them how much I wanted to talk to them… And they said that we can become friends! I was really happy big brother!"
Hikaru couldn't help but smile at her happiness.
"That's so great Ai-chan! I bet you're gonna have a lot more fun at school now huh?"
"Yup lots of fun! I can't wait to tell Ri-chan! She'll be so proud!"
"I bet." Hikaru agreed. Even though he didn't need to babysit the Nara kids anymore because Shikaji was now old enough to watch his siblings, Rikona still came by to play with the Haruno girls. He didn't mind since it was better than the oldest Nara coming over to annoy him.
Chouko couldn't help mentioning, "It's good that you made some friends, Hikaru was really worried about you Ai-chan!"
"Shut up Chouko!" The older boy blushed not liking where this conversation was going.
"He was about to go to that school and force all those girls to play with ya! He would of threaten the Sensei if he had to!" she chuckled.
"Now you're making up a crappy lie!"
Aiko looked up concern, "Big brother you shouldn't be mean to our teacher. She's really strong and can hurt you really bad."
"Right! That's what I said."
Hikaru had enough he elbowed her side causing the thick girl to bend over in pain. She retorted hitting the back of his head
"I said chill out with your hits you gorilla!" she screamed obviously bruised.
"Then don't make up wild stories worrying my little sisters. They are too trusting for their own good."
"She believes it because you would do something that wild."
Aiko nods, "You would do it big brother."
"Whose side are you on Ai!?" Hikaru hurt by this betrayal.
"Always on your side big brother. That's why I say that."
"Aw such a loving little sister!" Chouko gushed to mess with Hikaru even more.
"Your both lucky I'm too nice for my own good to the both of you." The boy grunted shoving his free hand in his pocket.
"And that's what makes you such a great punching bag."
"And that's why you're my literal one."
"God imagine what our mothers would say if they knew how much you beat your fiancé" she continued to tease.
"Oh barf…"
"Yeah regretting that one" the brunette shivered at even the thought.
"Wait you both aren't getting married? But Mama and Auntie Ino says I can be the flower girl…"
Both the older kids stopped staring at the little girl. They both looked to each other with dead eyes.
"We need to find a way to stop them before it's too late…" Hikaru said with determination.
Chouko nods, "Yes we need to before Papa hands me off to ya at our wedding…."
Aiko was confused by their odd behavior but decided to let it be, while the two friends develop the plan to get their mothers to stop trying to marry them off to each other.
XxX
Aiko was over at Rikona's place and at the same time Kana Inuzuka was over as well. The two were friends thanks to how often their brothers hung out. While Rikona was very pretty on the outside she was a huge tomboy. Kana on the other hand was super girl despite her rough edges. They always let Aiko hang out with them and they would always have fun together along with her little sister Katsumi. Over time she's looks up to them as older sisters that are always there for her.
She was Rikona and Kana were talking about their brothers and how annoying they were older and younger. Kana had her hands full being the only girl in her group of boys and Rikona was the middle child dealing with two lazy boys that always slack off leaving her with all the chores.
Aiko giggled as they described their tough times while Katsumi was braiding her long raven hair.
"Oh, Aiko I almost forgot to ask! How's school?" the Nara girl asked her younger friend.
The young artist smiled feeling really proud of herself, "Um well…. I met these two really nice girls in my class…. They're both kind and they found my lost lunch box for me when I left it behind."
The Inuzuka girl interested, "Are you going to invite them to your place?"
Aiko shook her head making Katsumi mess up the braid she was working on.
"Big sis~ I said you can't move!" the youngest Haruno whined.
Aiko gave an apologetic smile, "Sorry Kat-chan…. Anyway, I'm not quite ready to invite them over yet. It took everything just to greet them in the morning…" she was fiddling with one of her loose dark strands.
Rikona giggled, 'You've always been super shy huh Ai-chan? I remember you would hide behind Hika-kun every time we came over! Luckily, he had to study, and I manage to get a word out of ya."
Kana nod in agreement, "No kidding. You used to refuse to leave Sai-san's arms whenever you guys came over for dinner. I remember you drawing in the corner behind Hikaru-kun in till Ken-chan got you to doodle for him."
Aiko looked down a little disappointed in herself, "I guess I've never been that good at talking…"
The Nara girl shook her head, "It's not that you're bad at talking. You just need to get used to someone then you an open book!"
The smaller girl nods her head, "Right! You should be fine with your new friends! Don't rush and take your time getting to know them. You'll be the best of friends in no time!"
The ravenette girl looked up, "You really think so?"
Both older girls grinned with bright smiles reassuring the younger of the three.
Rikona took a grip of her shoulder, "Of course Ai-chan! You're a wonderful friend and we're lucky to have you be ours!"
Kana nods in agreement, "Totally!"
Aiko giving a gentle smile of her own, "Thanks…"
"Done!" Katsumi peeped from behind.
Aiko went to the mirror to look at her sister's work. It was well braided for a three-year-old, Aiko couldn't even do something like this to her own hair.
"Wow Kat-chan your awesome with braids!", the older sister complemented.
Katsumi gave a shy smile happy her sister liked it, "Thanks Big sister!"
"Do me next Kat-chan!" Kana cheered.
"Kay!" The small magenta-haired girl cheered excited to braid someone else's hair.
"Do you want to go next Ri-Ri-kun?" the shorter girl asked her best friend asked.
"Nah I'm good. I'll gladly have a messy bun any day." Rikona declined never one to really care much about her hair.
Aiko was happy she could finally share her new experience with the two people she looked up to besides her family. The young girl hopes one day she'll be able to introduce her long-time friends with her new ones from class one day when she gathers all her courage.
XxX
It had been two weeks since she has befriended Mai and Ayaka, every school day just as Chouko said has been a lot more fun for the Haruno. She was always greeted by their kind smiles and they were able to talk about all kinds of interesting subjects at lunch. She knew these two would get her and she was glad they agreed to be friends.
Today it was the boy's sparing match. Both shinobi and kunoichi classes had to be at attendance to observe the skills. Next week it would be their turn. Aiko, Ayaka, and Mai were huddled up together observing the fight. Ayaka's eyes were focus on a certain boy. He was a year older than them, but he was well liked by most of the girls in class. So, it was obvious Ayaka would be head over heals for this said boy.
Aruna Rio was waiting for his turn to spar against one of his classmates, his short platinum blond hair swayed in the breeze while his bright sky-blue eyes stared towards the clouds admiring the warm spring weather. Aiko had to admit he looked like a handsome prince, but Aiko wasn't really interested. She's already having a tough enough time trying to talk and socialize with the same gender in her class, so right now crushes with boys was way to out of range.
"He's so cute… Don't you think so Mai?" Ayaka gushed at her crush.
Mai only shrugged, clearly uninterested, "I mean he looks good but he's a little too good if you know what I mean?"
Aiko tilted her head, "Too good? Is that possible?"
"Of course, it is Ai-chan! People can be too perfect, they're usually sneaky…" Mai explained to her newer friend.
Aiko couldn't help but be reminded of Hikaru giggling, "You sound like my big brother, he doesn't really think anyone is good."
Mai blushed at the mention of him, "R-Right your brother is usually off by himself huh?"
The ravenette shook her head, "Him and Cho-Cho-nee are always together!"
Bright blue eyes widen in shock, "C-Cho-Cho? Is that like his girlfriend?"
Aiko thought for a moment before she answered, "Actually Mama says they're gonna get married one day."
"M-Married!? Figures my luck…" Mai sighed defeated.
Ayaka couldn't help but shake her head, "I keep telling you not to go for older boys. They usually have girlfriends."
The silver haired friend cried, "I'll find my man one day! He'll be handsome and perfect! More than any of your guys husbands!"
Aiko's whole face turned red, "H-Husband?! I'm… I'm unsure about that…" she muttered covering her mouth with her sketch book.
Ayaka's brown eyes widen from realization, "Wait you never liked a boy before Ai-chan?"
The girl in question shook her head, "I don't really know how to like anyone… At least not the way you guys seem to…"
Mai pat her back, "It's okay if you're not ready to like someone that way…"
The maroon-haired girl nods, "Yeah totally! You're okay as you are Ai-chan!"
"Really?"
Both her friends nod. Right after their exchange it was time for the match between Aruna and his classmate to start. All eyes were on the spar, Ayaka and the rest of his admirers cheering loudly towards the boy's match. They were evenly matched but Aruna was a little faster than the taller boy and was able to maneuver around him smoothly being one step a head of his attacks.
And soon he was able to find his way behind him putting him in a choke hold, when it look like the fight wasn't going to go further than that, the sensei of the shinobis decided to end the match right there.
The boys shook hands saying good spar, afterwards Aruna noticed the crowd of young girls staring his way. He smiled waving at them. The older boy was always nice to his group of fans. But he blushed when his eyes met with Aiko's, who was just staring with a neutral look. She looked ready to be done here but it was mandatory for the kunoichis to view the match.
Aruna decided this was his chance and slowly approached her.
The young ravenette was taken back when she noticed the boy her friend is enamored with walking their way. On the one hand she was excited because that meant her friend was able to grab the boy's attention and they could start to hang out with each other, but she couldn't help be nervous around him seeing how she has never talked to him before. But she didn't feel as scared thanks to her friend's presence around her. So, she just stuck close to Mai not wanting to block Ayaka from the beautiful boy.
The maroon hair girl blushed when he was in front of him playing with her hair, "O-Oh Aruna-kun! G-Great fight! You really are skilled at hand combat…"
The blond boy nodded appreciating her words, "Thanks I try." But just as fast he brushed her off turning to the shy Haruno, "Aiko-chan it was a pleasant surprise seeing you in the crowd. You usually keep to yourself." His smile was almost blinding.
The girl was speechless not sure how to respond and just looked down and away mumbling a quiet, "Y-Yeah…"
The boy couldn't help but admire her meekness, "I hope to see you watching me next time I spar Aiko-chan." With that the prince-like boy left back to the shinobi side of the field as the next match was starting. And as soon as he was gone the girls were all glaring daggers at Aiko, who felt like she was the center of a stage.
She rubbed her arm not looking up at even her new friends and kept quiet in till the sparing was complete.
XxX
It was lunch time when Aiko was sitting with her friends, but they also had been quiet since the encounter with Aruna earlier that day, especially Ayaka. She hadn't spoken a word to Aiko since the shinobi spars.
Mai decided she was over the awkward silence, "Hey Aya-chan… Talk to us… What's on your mind?"
The maroon haired girl finally stared up her eyes giving a distant look, "I just should of known he would of liked Aiko too… You really are popular without trying huh?"
"Ayaka?" The Haruno girl was confused.
"You just had to had to take him too huh?" Ayaka's voice spat at her.
"Aya-chan!" Mai glared not liking the attitude.
"What? It's true! All the boys like her! And she doesn't even like them! The only boy she cares about is her brother so why!?" she began to tear up and quickly ran away.
Mai sighed, "I'm sorry Aiko I'll try to calm her down." The silver-haired girl to catch up with her childhood friend.
Aiko just sat there staring at her lunch feeling bad.
They never came back before the bell rang.
XxX
Aiko was over at her grandparent's house baking with her mom, little sister, and grandmother. The boys were upstairs playing cards with Kizashi. The girls were baking a cake. The girls helping to mix the frosting while Sakura was on the side enjoying a bottle of beer trying not to get in the way for her daughters and mother knowing her skill in the kitchen isn't top tier.
It had been a whole week since Aiko had gotten into that spat with Ayaka and the girl still refused to talk to her while Mai tried to play mediator. Aiko didn't feel right splitting them apart since they were friends first, so she decided to be by herself while the girls try to work out their issues with her.
She was mixing the bowl calmly while Katsumi was mixing enthusiastically next to her. Mebuki noticed her low energy and tried to get to the bottom of it.
"What's wrong today Ai-chan? You usually are excited to cook with Grandma."
Sakura nodded also noticing her oldest daughter's behavior, "Yeah blossom? What's up? You've had that frown on your face all week."
Aiko stared down at the dough, "My friend is mad at me…"
The elder women's eyes widen surprised, "Why on earth would they be mad at you dear. You're the sweetest girl I know!" the now gray-haired women feeling defensive.
Sakura tried to calm her, "Mom please… Was it something you might have said to her Ai?"
Aiko shook her head, "No… We were watching the shinobi spar last week and the boy Ayaka-chan likes talked to me… I guess he likes me… That's what they're saying at least."
The medical ninja sighed remembering how immature Ino and her used to be when it came to Sasuke Uchiha back in the day. But the last thing she wanted for her girls was to lose such a precious friend over a dumb boy. And from the sound of her daughter she wasn't even interested.
She came from the counter hugging her close, "Oh blossom I'm sorry you have to worry about something like this already. Girls your age sure move fast huh?"
The oldest Haruno girl sighed hugging back mumbling in her mother's side, "What do I do Mommy?"
Mebuki placed her hands on the girl's head, "Be honest with them. I'm sure you're not ready for that kind of thing just yet. So, just wait in till they come to you dear. Young girls are complicated and I'm sure she wouldn't want your friendship to end over something so shallow.
Aiko moved back away from her mother's embrace facing her grandma, "What do I do if they don't come back to me?"
"Well that's when you have to be brave honey. Girls are complicated creatures that can become stupid when it comes to boys. You should have seen your mother when she was young. She was lovesick for years over someone not even worth it in the end."
Sakura nodded remembering her mistakes, "Girls can be really stupid. Hopefully, your friends are smarter than Mommy and Auntie Ino were back then."
Katsumi pat her sister's back gently, "Everything will be okay!"
The six-year old gave a gentle smile, "Thank you Katsumi…"
Aiko felt blessed that her family around her were here to support, even if Ayaka may never like her again she'll always be thankful for the small amount of time she did get to spend with her, and she wished her luck with her love life with Aruna. If he did have feelings for her, she'll reject them immediately if it meant Ayaka could have a chance with them.
She'll try her best to fix this.
XxX
Aiko was once again alone at lunch eating a rice ball out of her bento. It was familiar but lonely for her, she couldn't help but stare at Mai and Ayaka during class and she saw how Ayaka gave her a cold look when she caught the onyx eyes on her. Aiko wasn't sure how to respond to her new harsh nature, but she tried not to let it bother her. After she finished her meal, she brought out her sketch drawing out some of the flowers in front of her. Aiko was slowly making some progress shading when she suddenly felt a pull on her wrist.
She was shocked when she noticed it was none other than Mai pulling her along harshly. The silvered-haired girl had a look of determination in her eyes.
"Huh? Wha? Mai what's happening?" Aiko asked confused.
Mai didn't respond and continued to drag the young ravenette towards the other side of the campus. When she finally stopped, she was faced with Ayaka on the bench looking to be almost done with her lunch. She had a surprised glare on her face.
"Mai-chan what are you doing!?" she asked standing up.
"You're not doing this Ayaka, you're not going to push Aiko to the side over some boy!" Mai said with a scary glare of her own.
Aiko was unsure what to say seeing the two childhood argue wasn't t something she was confident she could handle.
Ayaka crossed her arms looking down, "But he's special to me! And he likes her!"
"So what? So that's Aiko's fault? Are you stupid?"
"W-What?!"
"You must be stupid because you know Aiko doesn't like him like that! And you didn't give her chance to talk about that and took advantage of her being shy!"
Ayaka's frowned at her, "What are you doing Mai! Your supposed to be on my side!"
"Not when I know you're wrong! Aya-chan stop this please. She's our friend too and you being mean cause you're jealous makes you no better than those girls who bullied us when we were younger…"
The maroon-haired girl looked towards Aiko, "What do you have to say then Aiko…? Do you even like Aruna-kun?"
Aiko finally getting a chance to speak shook her head, "No… not really… I'm sure he's nice and all but… I don't really like anyone…. And I don't really know why he and other boys like me… I think its weird since I never spoken a word to any of them…"
Ayaka out of no where started laughing which was odd since she was mad just a second ago, "You're clueless huh?"
The ravenette tilted her head confused.
"You're super pretty Aiko that's why… Plus your wear such cute clothes and you're really kind to anyone you meet…It's really easy to like you Aiko… your only fault is you're a little too shy for your own good." she looked down defeated a sigh escaping her lips, "I really was mean to you wasn't I…?"
Aiko shook her head profusely, "No you're right to feel that way, you really like Aruna-kun! And I should have been more distant knowing that!"
Dark brown eyes widen, and she smiled again realizing her mistake she bowed, "I'm sorry Aiko-chan…. I was really dumb to get as mad as I did… Aruna can like who ever he likes… And it's not like it'll stop me from liking him!"
Aiko smiled nodding, "I won't accept his feelings."
"Really? Even if you end up liking him?" Ayaka asked curious.
Aiko nods, "Yes! You like him and I won't let there be any! I'd much rather you end up together than me and him!"
Mai started to chuckle, "I told ya you were acting like a huge idiot Aya-chan!"
The girl blushed looking away feeling ashamed, "I get it already okay geez! A girl in love can't control her feelings!"
"Apparently they have no braincells either. But that's normal for you even without the crush."
"Shut up!"
Aiko couldn't help but smile, "Would you like me to set things straight with him now? I can even tell him how amazing you are Ayaka-chan!"
The girl shook her head her face was now red, "NO! I don't need any help Aiko-chan! Just leave it be!"
The two of them laughed at her flustered expressions, Aiko glad they were able to fix things between the three of them.
XxX
Aiko is eating at the dinner table with her family enjoying her father's fried rice and teriyaki chicken at the table.
Katsumi stared at her older sister sensing a weight was lifted, "Big sister feeling better?"
Onyx eyes widen but she quickly smiled nodding, "Yeah big sis better… I got to talk to them today…. I'm glad we're friends again…"
Sakura smiled, 'I'm glad you girls got to talk it out. It could have ended a lot messier between you three. Boys always cause trouble.
Sai and Hikaru flinched at the mention of a boy.
The husband was the first to say something, "What do you mean by boy Ugly?"
Green eyes rolled at her husband's protective nature, "Well it looks like our daughter is popular in school with the boys! She even stole hearts of a couple of older ones!" the women explained.
Hikaru's eyes stone cold, "Names…"
Aiko couldn't help but feel a cold shiver from her brother, "What?"
"I need names Ai. Who are these boys? If you don't know their names describe them to me."
Sai nodded agreeing with this, "Indeed we need to leave a message to those ignorant boys."
Aiko sighed turning away from them, "I can take care of myself Daddy, and I don't need to tell you anything big brother! Don't go into any of the younger boy's class!"
"You don't know how boys think Ai! And it's not like you'll know I'll be there!"
"Big brother stop!" The oldest sister whined, feeling embarrassed by Hikaru's actions for once.
"Aiko please for daddy! Your way too young to be in this kind of situation!" Sai was desperate now.
Hikaru came with, "Yeah Ai! You don't need a punch of worthless guys giving you trouble at school!"
"Yes, I should start bring you to school so they know the path to a relationship to school.
"And I need to visit the younger classes so I can threaten them for even thinking of being with you!"
Before the two could go on any further with their protective rant Sakura came up behind them hitting their heads with only five percent of her strength.
Both Sai and Hikaru groaned at the contact quickly rubbing their heads to try to sooth the pain away, "Would you both calm down! God you two are getting a head of yourselves! Ai is only six! One thing you guys should remember the boys and girls won't have classes together in till they're twelve so she barley sees any of them and second she can make her own choices and right now it looks like she doesn't care for that kind of thing so quit overreacting!"
"But mom what if they approach her?"
"Yes Ugly she may be smart, but boys are sneaky!"
"Enough! You two are hopeless!" Sakura screamed.
Aiko only sighed from her family's argument.
Katsumi only pat her shoulder smiling up at her, "Be sure to find a nice one!"
Aiko blushed at that sighing, she may not be interested now but her future husband will definitely have to go through some difficult trials with her older brother and her father before he's accepted in the Haruno family. But she supposes she wouldn't have it any other way and simply smiled. It was odd but it was they're way of loving her and worrying about her, so she felt grateful.
XxX
It has almost been a month since Aiko and her friends made up and they were going to Aiko's house to study for a test that was coming up, since her house was closer to the Ninja Academy. They were all walking cheerfully talking about their day in class.
"I think our eyes met when he was walking to class!" Ayaka sighed happy at the thought.
"Really you're delusional Aya-chan… You were right next to Ai-chan, he was probably staring at her." Mai pointed out bluntly.
"Don't ruin my fantasy Mai-chan!" the maroon-haired girl whined.
"I apologize if I got in your way again Aya-chan..." Aiko showed remorse for stealing her crush's attention.
"Man, why do you gotta be so pretty Ai-chan!? Share some of your beauty with the rest of us!" The love-struck girl pouted.
Aiko smiled, "I would if I could…"
Mai laughed, "I'd believe that! You need to start acting more selfish Ai-chan!"
"I wouldn't even know where to start with that…" the dark-haired girl sighed.
They eventually made it to the front of their house when they walked into the door, they were greeted with Hikaru and Sai bickering.
"I told you to stop saying weird stuff like that you stupid ghost!" Hikaru screamed peeved at something the older man had mention to him.
"Aw how cute Hikaru-chan. Your so shy when it comes to her~" the man obviously bullshitting.
"Stop it! When you say stuff like that when she's here you give us goosebumps!"
"You're both so shy it's adorable!"
"Stop it already you freak!"
Aiko sighed rubbing her temples, just when she thought they were on the same page now their back to their argumentative behavior.
"Daddy Big Brother!" she yelled.
Both onyx and green eyes were on the group of young girls both Sai with his now neutral smile while Hikaru turned away heading to his bedroom not even greeting the girls he's yet to officially meet. On the way to his room he went to grab Katsumi. Aiko smiled at that knowing that Katsumi would probably try to distract her and her friends from their work, so it was his way of helping her out without him saying anything.
"Hello girls welcome, sorry you had to witness that little spat earlier. It's my odd way of showing my eldest son some love."
Both Mai and Ayaka weren't sure how to react and just simply nodded, both giving quiet hellos barely audible.
Aiko smiled at their shyness. She sometimes forgets they're a little awkward with new people too, "This is Mai and Ayaka daddy. My friends I made at school."
Sai slightly bowed, "Pleasure to finally meet both of you girls. I've heard nothing but praises from my daughter about you two"
"Um it's nice to meet you sir!" Mai bowed nervously
"Yes! We're both really lucky to have Ai-chan as a friend!" Ayaka also bowed.
Aiko giggled at their nervous nature and simply responded, "We'll be in my room in till dinner daddy."
"Would you girls like some snacks before then?"
"Sure! Thanks dad!" with that the girls walked down the hallway into her bedroom to do some homework.
As they were unpacking their bags getting ready near the small table Mai was the one to ask, "I never noticed this before, but you and your brother look nothing alike."
Aiko flinched a little at her mentioning that. But she gave a soft smile replying, "We actually have different dads. Mommy always says besides his hair and eyes he looks just like him. I never actually met big brother's father before. But I heard he's really strong and he's nice. But we share the same mom though."
"Oh… I'm sorry…"
"Huh why are you sorry Mai-chan?"
"Well it must be tough knowing something like that…."
"Hmm…. Yeah but it never bothered me…. Big brother has always been kind even though I can be annoying myself at times but he's always patient and helps me however he can…. Even though he is a little hurt he never met his dad…"
Ayaka nodded, "Yeah… I understand…. When I was little my parents were together, but they always fought. But they finally thought enough was enough and mom ended up leaving and well she kind of disappeared with her boyfriend…. I haven't seen her since I was three years old…"
Mai laughed, "I actually wished my parents got divorced. They're clearly unhappy, but they insist on staying for me… But I'd rather have them be less stress than worrying about me all the time…."
Aiko stared and she smiled, "I can't say I understand but I'm happy you guys trust me enough to tell me this… If you need someone to talk to you can always talk to me."
"Thanks Ai-chan that means a lot!", Ayaka smiled.
Mai nods, "Yeah… And don't be scared to tell us anything either!"
The Haruno girl smiled happy, "Thanks…."
"Kay that's enough distraction let's get started on our work!" the silver-haired girl clapped her hands snapping everyone into work mode.
"Aw but I was having a good time talking Mai-chan~" her childhood friend whined.
Aiko giggled, "Hey if we get this one fast enough Aya-chan we could play some games later."
"You're right! Okay let's start then." She slammed her bag on the table.
"Easy Ayaka! This isn't your house!" Mai lectured.
Aiko smiled sitting down as well getting ready to pull out her work.
She really felt blessed that she got a chance to meet these two and fix their issues early on. The young artist was genuinely happy to have them in her life. She'll always cherish their company and hope long after they go their separate ways, they'll always be close.
Aiko will thank them when that day comes.
To be Continued….
A/N: I hope you guys don't mind this added chapter, I thought since the last chapter was focused on Kyo it was only fair to do a Aiko focused chapter. I was really happy with how this one came out, I was almost going to go with the bully route or whateves but I thought that has been done a million times with Characters like Aiko so I wanted to do something a little different. Anyway we are going to finally progress through actual plot in the next chapter, and by plot I mean stuff I had originally planned. I'm going to try to keep it only one chapter and not expand it like I did with Kyo's arc. So in till next time!