Disclaimer: Again, I don't own anybody or anything except Tomoko, her family, and Nagareboshi Cafe.
The outfit that Tomoko wears specifically this chapter is again from Darling Army, titled 'Rapunzel Tangled Disneybound Dapper Day Vintage Pin-Up Circle Skirt.' Just picture Tomoko wearing said skirt with the pink blouse in the picture (make sure to resize the clothes themselves to match a 9 year old), add in white flats, and you're good to go!
On the other hand, the song for this chapter is specifically the Naruto Shippuden Unreleased Track titled, Konoha Peace. If you want, you can also listen to its second counterpart simply titled "Konoha Peace 2" for most of this chapter. It's not piano - but it's there simply to set the mood since Tomoko doesn't actually play the piano in this chapter. It's specifically a lot of characters interacting with each other!
Please enjoy!
Dedicated to the many people who reviewed Kakashi's Interlude! Thanks for all the feedback guys, it's really appreciated!
Chapter 15: Team Minato
It was actually about a year later, into the beginning of spring, that Minato-san and Kushina-san came to, 'borrow,' me one day. Aside from sharing a birthday party with Kakashi (apparently since our birthdays were only 9 days apart, the adults decided to have it on the same day just to save time), not much had changed aside from the fact I started growing a chest… again. I still don't know how I feel about that since even in my past life, I was an early bloomer.
It attracted way too much attention back in the day, even though I was considered slightly above average for an Asian-American girl in America's eyes.
…Thank goodness that there is medicine and/or jutsu to prevent monthly bleeding. Just, thank goodness. That saved on laundry days.
It was actually around this time that I officially decided to keep my current hairstyle of somewhat curled bob-cut with hair ribbon on one strand. Long hair was pretty and all, but I already saw how it didn't benefit Sakura in canon in the long run. How Hinata escaped that was and still is beyond me. And, to be frank, from my past experience, taking care of long hair is just a pain.
…I know Mom back then appreciated my long hair because she could use me as a hair model for various hairstyles, but the copious amounts of shampoo and conditioner were just not worth it! Not to mention the various loose hairs that ended up clogging the piping in the bathrooms.
No way was I putting any of the capable people in charge of cleaning those places through that kind of hell!
Aside from that, not much had changed from the daily routine. Kakashi and Sakumo-san still did their ninja work, with Kakashi heading out on missions and Sakumo-san teaching kenjutsu and other techniques at the Academy. Nagareboshi Cafe was slowly getting back most of its clientele after the whole 'Hatake rumor mill' thing, but it was a slow process.
At the time, Mom and Dad had yet to open up Nagareboshi Cafe and the entire house was seated around the living room table having breakfast when they came in.
"Hikari-san! Judai-san! You guys around?"
Sakumo-san was the first one to react, blinking while still holding his chopsticks and rice bowl. "…Was that Kushina?"
In response, I just looked at Kakashi, who was sitting next to me and poking the saury fish in front of him with his chopsticks. My best friend just stared back, shrugging nonchalantly before turning back to his food. I guess he wasn't up for physically voicing his answer. Then again, we had been living together for almost a year now, so I was used to his quiet conversations.
…I'll get into how he wasn't wearing his mask another time. Honestly, I'm still surprised that he's used to not wearing it around me anymore considering how tense he was when we first met. And to be honest, I didn't see what the big deal was. Kakashi had a face like anyone else's - he just chose to hide it. And I will admit, he was kind of cute with the mole on his chin and the small canine fangs.
But still, it's just a face. No big deal — he just wants to cover it up for some kind of reason, and I'm not going to judge him on that. Or question it. It was his business.
I guess I should take his showing me his face as a sign that he really trusts me?
"Hikari-san? Judai-san? Are you guys there?"
…Huh, judging by the extra voice, I guess Minato-san was out there too.
Mom and Dad just glanced at one another before simultaneously sighing. I guess it was too early in the morning for them to invite guests. Nevertheless, Dad got up from his chair while rolling his eyes, going over to the front door and opening it to let the guests in.
From the living room table, even with Dad's tall figure, I could see the telltale signs of blond spikes and long red hair. Then…
"Tomoko-chan~!" I didn't even think of dodging the incoming tackle hug. Kushina-san had that kind of influence and hey — why do you think I try not to tackle hug Kakashi like that anymore since he started living here? I now know what it's like for him to deal with the full brunt of a tackle, and it can be both loving and uncomfortable.
…Even though I still do like tackle-hugging Kakashi occasionally. Just because.
Don't laugh! Seriously — I've been a hugger, even in my past life! And everyone needs at least one hug in their day!
…And Kakashi is snuggly. Currently, no one else apparently matches Kakashi's level of comfortable 'hugginess' — and that's saying something. The only person I remember who had that same quality in my past life was Leo — and that's a lot to say considering he was my boyfriend!
… I still have no clue on the whole love situation in ninja standards even though I have experience from my past self. Hopefully it was similar and not drawn out like Canon. I could hope a little.
Oh well. Turns out that I was being smothered by the Red Hot Habanero again, though not as much as our first meeting. Hey, I could still breathe! Woo!
Though, if I sugar-coated the whole situation, I could conclude that I was being snuggled. But considering how Kushina-san was actually carrying me in her arms and lifting me in the air, that's kind of an understatement.
"…Hello, Kushina-nee-san." My voice came out a bit more squeaky than usual with the name. Huh, must be because of the tight hugging the woman was doing, and I could swear Kushina-san tensed for a moment.
Uh-oh.
"…Tomoko-chan, what did you just call me?"
Meep.
Her serious bright violet orbs were now staring at me intently, and a part of me felt like I was on the witness stand in a courtroom with how I was put on spot.
No wonder so many witnesses in Phoenix Wright games had breakdowns. The pressure can be a lot!
"…Um, Kushina-nee-san?" I blurted out, voice high-pitched again.
There was a large silence, enough for a pin to drop. It was as if it was the calm before the storm. And then Kushina-san reacted.
"Oh my gosh, Tomoko-chan, you are so cute!"
And oof, I was being smothered again. If not for the small pocket of air I had in the hug, I might've stopped breathing due to Kushina-san's chest or massive curtain of red hair. On the other hand, the redhead's voice went up a pitch or two because from the close distance, it sounded like she was squealing. Why? Just, why me? "Minato, did you hear that? Tomoko-chan called me nee-san!"
I could swear Minato-san was sweating behind us, a shaky smile on his face. "I-I can see that, Kushina. But Tomoko-chan seems to be a bit uncomfortable there…"
"No kidding," Dad deadpanned, crossing his arms. "Kushina, I know you find my baby girl adorable, especially considering all the clothes Hikari puts her in—" Mom just raised an eyebrow at him and he coughed into his fist. "—But Tomoko-chan needs air."
By that point, it felt like I was in astronomy, watching the universe go by. Space mechanics — eh.
…Never did fully get into astronomy, even back in my past life. But still. The stars looked pretty! Ooooh.
"Oh! I-I'm sorry, Tomoko-chan…" And I was promptly put back down into my seat in the gentlest manner possible. There went all the stars.
Though, I wasn't expecting to be treated akin to a doll, considering who was handling me. The multiple fanfictions that my past self read had Kushina generalized as a tackle-hugging woman who didn't know how to let up on the force, but fanfictions are definitely different from reality.
Once my vision finally stopped swirling, I could see Kushina-san's concerned violet orbs looking over me, her hands lightly touching my shoulders to make sure I was still coherent. "Are you okay?"
Now I can see how she became Naruto's mother in the future.
In response, I gave her a soft nod and a smile, laughing lightly. "I-I'm okay, Kushina-nee-san, no worries!"
The woman in front of me simply sighed in relief, kneeling down to my height to smile back at me before standing up to go near Minato-san.
"…So," Mom started, having not moved from her position at the living room table. "While we do appreciate the company, Minato-san, Kushina-san, what did you two come here for? I'm sure it's not because you want breakfast."
Minato-san in response just blinked before laughing sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head with his hand. "U-Um, Yeah. I-in fact, we were wondering if we could borrow Tomoko-chan for the day."
"…Why Tomoko-chan, exactly?" Dad interjected, frown on his face. I honestly echoed similar sentiments in my head. I mean, usually Minato-san came just for Kakashi to take on a mission. Why would a high-ranking Jounin such as the Yellow Flash come by and ask to borrow a civilian girl?
…For some reason, I had a bad feeling.
Apparently Kakashi echoed similar thoughts, because he took the moment to speak up. "What do you plan on borrowing Tomoko for, Sensei?" Without his mask, I could clearly see the curious frown on his face. "I thought we had a training session today."
Kushina-san took the time to beam at him. "You still do, Kakashi-kun, it's just that I was hoping to take Tomoko-chan for a girls day out!"
"…A girls day out?" Kakashi deadpanned.
Yep, he's not believing this as much as I am.
"…A girls day out?" Sakumo-san muttered too, eyes betraying his suspicion.
"A girls day out..." I repeated, blinking in confusion. "But I have work today..." And a part of me already knew that a lot of Nagareboshi regulars looked forward to listening to my piano music every day. Heading out for something like a 'girls day out' just seemed to equal 'disappointment and lower sales' considering how Nagareboshi was still recovering after the whole 'Hatake rumor mill.'
What to do…?
Apparently my worry seemed to be really obvious because Minato-san smiled lightly and walked over to pat my head. "Don't worry, Tomoko-chan, if anything, you'll just be gone until about sunset. I was just hoping to borrow you for a small favor."
Now I was feeling confused. "…Favor?" I looked up at him and couldn't help but notice the warmth in his blue eyes. They weren't the same shade of blue as Mom's, but they certainly reminded me of a certain other blonde knucklehead.
Then again, Naruto won't be around for quite a while.
"Yep, just a small favor." Minato-san smiled again, now ruffling my hair. "You'll be working with Kushina while I take Kakashi for his training session. It's kind of…hmm…" He pulled away for a moment to put a hand to his chin, closing his eyes to formulate an answer. "I was hoping if you could work with Kushina on some household stuff and stop by the training fields later today."
I think I see where this is going.
"…Minato-san, are you asking if I could bring you and Kakashi-kun lunch?" To be honest, that sounded like the most outlandish favor period. Minato-san already had Kushina-san around to make him lunch, and Kakashi had Sakumo-san and Mom if he needed anything.
Heck, Mom always packed Kakashi a bento these days!
Why would Minato-san want me to help Kushina-san then? Was there a different kind of occasion that I was missing? Or some kind of formal event for ninja?
The blonde Jounin in front of me blinked before laughing sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head with a hand. "…Was it that obvious?"
"Yes." I said dryly, raising an eyebrow. "And why? Mom and Sakumo-san already handle most of the food for Kakashi-kun anyway, not to mention Kushina-san should be living with you…" I pretended to not notice the large blush that covered Minato-san's cheeks at my remark, sighing. "So, Minato-san, if I can ask, why?"
"..." Minato-san simply stared at me.
"..." I stared back.
Are we seriously having a stare-off right now? I'm starting to hate contemplative silences if all ninja pull this.
In the end, I just huffed and threw my hands in the air. "You know what, I'll just go. It looks like I won't get any answers until later, and I don't want to argue about this since it's still early in the morning—"
"It's already 9, Tomoko." Kakashi interjected smoothly, having already pulled up his mask due to finishing his breakfast.
"—Kakashi-kun, I love you and all, but could you let me handle this for a bit, please?" I sniped back dryly, doing my best to keep a civil, polite tone. Normally, I wouldn't be so testy, but it was already shaping up to be a weird day, courtesy of Naruto's future parents. I think I had a good excuse. "I get the point."
My best friend simply raised an eyebrow at me before slouching back in his seat, grumbling something under his breath. It was too low to hear, but it was probably something along the lines of 'stubborn dolt.'
Well, I love you too, you insufferable ninja. And it's way too early for your sass!
"Alrighty then!" Kushina-san took the moment to clap her hands together, smiling happily. "I guess you're coming with us then, Tomoko-chan!"
"…You two aren't going to be dragging her into any fights now, are you?" Mom. For once, she seemed to be taking up the 'protective parent' role that Dad normally occupied, blue eyes narrowed with suspicion. Despite her sitting position, I could tell that her shoulders were tense with worry and that said more than enough.
Before I could say anything though, Kushina took the chance to speak. "Don't worry, Hikari-san, Tomoko-chan will be with me anyway! It's just really housework and observing some of Minato's training session, that's all!" Despite the redhead's bright grin, I noticed Mom's shoulders tense even more and Dad took the moment to interject.
"…Again, why do you need Tomoko?"
Oh no.
It looked like Dad was about a stage or two away from the 'Protective Daddy' mode I had witnessed him in before, being significantly calmer than said mode, standing up from his seat after finishing his previous sentence. However, I could still see a glint of red and green in his normally brown eyes. "I thought I already talked to the both of you about how I don't want my little girl getting too involved with ninja life."
Says the man who brought up the idea of bringing in Kakashi-kun and Sakumo-san to live with us.
I didn't voice the thought though, since the mood made it more than obvious that this was between my parents and the two guests in the room.
Even Sakumo-san himself seemed to get the idea, quietly getting up from his chair and putting the dishes away. He gave Kakashi a warm hug and passed by me to give a soft pat on my head before heading out the front door where Minato-san and Kushina-san came in. I guess he wanted to head over to the Academy early.
Once Sakumo-san left, there was a moment of silence. I could literally feel the tension in the room between the two groups of adults, and somehow found myself leaning towards Kakashi. My best friend didn't say anything about my presence, thankfully, simply wrapping an arm around my shoulders in a soft side-hug and letting me rest my head on his shoulder. It's at times like these that I'm grateful Kakashi knows me so well — it's like I don't have to say anything and he knows when I need to lean on him.
"… Kakashi-kun?" Despite my soft tone, he heard me anyway, humming. "Thank you."
From the close distance, I could feel the soft smile on his masked face, his cheek gently resting on top of my head. "You're welcome, Tomoko."
Soon enough, the silence was broken with Minato-san's sigh. I looked up to see him cough into his fist before staring at my dad, and a shiver went down my back.
What I was seeing right now was the Yellow Flash and Future Fourth Hokage in all of his glory, mouth set in a thin line and blue eyes screaming quiet determination, facing my dad who seemed a bit smaller than before. "I understand your concerns, Judai, but Tomoko-chan's been involved ever since you opened up Nagareboshi Cafe and let her get to know Kakashi. I simply wanted to borrow her as a means of emotional support considering today's training session is considerably different, that's all."
Dad blinked before sighing himself, hand to his head. From my point of view, he looked 10 years older than his actual age, stress lines showing on his face. "Let me guess, it's life-changing in terms of ninja life for both you and Kakashi, and since my little girl is known for calming down bad situations, the sweet motivator that she is, you want her there just in case?"
"Basically that!" Kushina-san piped in, placating smile on her face.
It was at this point that Mom stood up, placing her hand over Dad's clenched fist in a calming gesture. The scene alone made me very tempted to jump up from my own seat to hug the two just to dispel the almost choking atmosphere, but I could tell Kakashi was tense next to me. I guess it was the whole 'life-changing' part that made my best friend seem a bit stiffer than before.
Damage control it is.
Without even thinking, I simply reached over to grab Kakashi's hand, the one that wasn't on my shoulder, to squeeze it gently. To my surprise, he immediately reacted, intertwining our fingers together and lightly squeezing back. Despite all the calluses on his hand from training, the whole gesture just felt nice, and I found myself snuggling into my best friend's side more while closing my eyes.
Overall, I'm very grateful that Kakashi is so snuggly. It really helps when tensions are at an all-time high.
"…Alright," The sound of Dad's voice made the moment end somewhat quickly, and I looked up only to see his usually tall figure slump back down into his chair at the living room table. He sighed, and for some reason, worry just flooded my entire system.
Why is Dad looking like that? Did the ninja world really impact him that much to worry about me?
"You can have Tomoko-chan for the day, just make sure she's safe, alright?" It was probably the first time I had ever seen Dad so tired, and to be honest, it was sort of terrifying. I only had to glance up once at Kakashi and my best friend seemed to understand immediately, nodding in agreement and letting go of me. I didn't even think about the loss of familiar warmth because all that was on my mind was Dad.
He seemed to notice me coming before I even realized I was running over, and his brown eyes widened. "Tomoko-chan—"
I tackle-hugged him. Unlike the times I tackled Kakashi, I made sure to loosen up on the force and just take in the presence that was Dad. Even if I didn't know what was going on in his head, I did know at least one thing.
I never wanted to see Dad look so defeated like right now.
"Tomoko-chan…" His gravely, deep voice reached the tips of my ears, but all I did was just tighten my hold around his torso, burying my face into the crook of his neck. He smelled faintly of cologne, and it was definitely different from the presence of my first Dad, but it was still Dad.
All I could think of saying was just an apology. "I'm sorry, Daddy."
For worrying you, for getting you out of your comfort zone.
For possibly not being the daughter you wanted because of my past memories.
A warm hand touched the small of my back before arms wrapped around my small frame to return the hug for a moment. "What are you apologizing for, sweetie?" To my surprise, I found myself being held by the waist, lifted up in the air similar to my baby days. Dad's warm brown eyes stared into my blue ones, and he just grinned as though it was a normal day. Nearby, I could see Mom smiling gently at the scene, sitting close to where Dad was. "You didn't do anything wrong, Tomoko-chan."
For some reason, a part of me just couldn't believe that, frown on my face. "But…" I managed before stopping myself. The words just couldn't come out and I was just left sitting there in Dad's hold, feeling like a rag doll. "But I…"
"Come on, sweetie, don't look so sad like that." I was honestly surprised Dad was still keeping up that warm, cheerful smile, bringing me down to sit in his lap. "You're just heading out for a day. Don't worry — Mom and Dad can handle the shop for you. And besides, you wanted to help Kakashi-kun and Minato-san before, didn't you?"
"That's true, but…" I trailed off again, licking my dry lips.
"But what, Tomoko-chan?" It was Mom that spoke this time, reaching over to lightly poke my cheek.
But am I doing enough to help you though? Am I really doing the right thing by always going to the ninja's side of things when I know you two need me just as much?
Despite my thought process, the words just didn't come out and I had to improvise. "But what about Nagareboshi? I mean, some of the regulars still haven't come back yet and I know Mommy and Daddy work as hard as they can just to support everybody, so—"
"So what?" Dad? I looked up only to get feel a bit of his re-growing stubble rubbing against my forehead.
Ah, itchy.
"Don't worry so much, Tomoko-chan — Mommy and Daddy are really awesome and can handle it!" Dad's grin was almost blinding from the close distance, glints of white teeth showing from between his lips. "You keep forgetting we're musicians too, sweetheart, so don't worry so much."
To my surprise, Mom and Dad both looked at each other before reaching over and flicking my forehead. Ouch. Did I just get flicked twice? "You go out there and support everybody in that sweet way of yours, okay? We can handle the homefront."
Relief and just plain happiness flooded my entire system.
Yep, I always seem to get the best parents ever, no matter what life I'm in.
"Okay…" A soft, happy sigh ended up escaping my lips, and despite the closed space I was in with Dad's hug, I was able to reach out and pull Mom into the group embrace. Only one thing was left to say without question. I had to say it, no matter what. "I love you, Mom. I love you, Dad."
It seemed like the atmosphere lightened almost immediately because both my parents tightened the hug on me, smiling cheerfully. "We love you too, Tomoko-chan."
Yep, if digital cameras were still a thing in this world, I would've called the whole thing a good Kodak moment.
But despite the happy atmosphere, I couldn't help but notice Minato-san, Kushina-san, and Kakashi all standing by the side rather awkwardly, looking at one another.
I held back the urge to sigh.
…Am I just the hug initiator at this point?
In the end, I ended up getting up from my parents' hold just to pull the three ninja into a group hug too, rolling my eyes.
"…Tomoko-chan?" Minato-san asked, tone clearly stating his confusion at the whole 'group hug' dynamic I was emitting.
"…You three looked like you needed a hug, so I was just providing it." I deadpanned back, tightening my hug on the three. "So, don't say anything else and just enjoy the moment please."
Kakashi scoffed something that sounded akin to, 'What the hell,' before being the first person to respond, putting an arm around me and Minato-san.
Thank you, best friend.
Then it was Kushina, being a bit more enthusiastic in her response, literally pulling the frozen Yellow Flash into the group hug with a giant grin while snuggling me. Finally, Minato-san seemed to get the idea and hugged all of us, sheepishly smiling himself.
Ninja really need to learn how to be more emotionally open when the time calls for it.
And when other people (cough — other civilians and ninja — cough) finally recognize it, I'll just call it right then and there. 'I told you so!' sounds really nice for that kind of scenario. At least, when it happens. Or if it ever happens.
With how things were going though, I guess we'll see.
…Probably have to get changed out of my nightgown first though.
After getting changed into a casual outfit consisting of a short-sleeved pink blouse and flowing purple skirt reminiscent of Tangled's Rapunzel, Kushina-san was the one to take me out while Minato-san took Kakashi to whatever training field they were going to be working at. But when getting to Minato-san and Kushina-san's home, I couldn't help but think 'organized.'
I mean, seriously. In the original canon timeline, Naruto's apartment was messy like all hell, very similar to my brother's room from my previous life, so a part of me was expecting something similar coming from Naruto's parents.
…Then again, canon Kakashi did comment on how Minato-san was very meticulous when visiting Naruto's home as a way of showing his disbelief, so I guess he rubbed off on Kushina-san?
Eh — it still works for me.
Kushina-san, or, Kushina-nee, as she insisted on me using for her, ushered me into the home really quickly, lightly pushing me via the hand on my back to walk into the kitchen, grinning the whole way.
I have a strange feeling she sees me as something akin to Mio's 'Moe-Moe Kyun'-ness from K-On.
…I'm not going to dwell on that because honestly — I don't think my appearance is all that noteworthy. Heck, I'm still shocked that she squeals over me despite me being a civilian girl! What made me so different?
Why did she choose to dote on me?
"So, Tomoko-chan!" I blinked, looking up at the smiling redhead. "How do you feel about bentos?"
"…Bentos?" I repeated back, disbelief seeping into my voice.
"Bentos," Kushina-nee repeated. "Minato was actually hoping you and I could work together to make some for his new team today!"
…Okay, I was definitely spacing out or something, because the 'new team' statement just threw a good wrench into my thoughts.
"New team?" I found myself squeaking, tone yelling volumes of my uncertainty. "I thought Kakashi-kun was Minato-san's only student, Kushina-nee-chan."
Kushina blinked before shaking her head, still smiling all the way. "That's true, Tomoko-chan, but things are a bit different now. Hokage-sama was actually thinking about taking Kakashi-kun off of the reserves, by assigning two new Academy graduates to Minato to form a full team. There was an odd number of students this year, so yeah! By adding on two more ninja, Minato now has a full three-man cell and they can head out on missions!"
Oh no. Horror seeped into my stomach. Don't tell me today marks the beginnings of Team Minato?!
"U-Um, Kushina-nee-chan," I managed, voice becoming dry from the lack of saliva in my mouth. "B-By chance, do you know who are the new graduates that will be joining Kakashi-kun today?"
The redhead blinked, putting a hand on her chin to think for a moment. "Um, I believe their names were…uh, Uchiha Obito and Nohara Rin? Yeah! I know of Obito through Mikoto-chan, but Rin, I haven't seen around much."
Oh dear. It was those two after all. I forced myself to swallow the thick lump in my throat to speak. "I-I see…"
This is what Minato-san needed me for, huh? Mediator for any possible tensions…
Then again, I couldn't blame the Jounin for his decision. Heck, it actually made sense in the long run. Even though I was able to make Kakashi open up a lot more to the idea of working with others and the concept of teamwork through my friendship with him, the silver haired Chunin was still used to working alone. And with the way Minato-san carefully dropped that bomb, I don't think Kakashi would appreciate having to take care of two new teammates, even if Sakumo-san did train them during their time at the Academy. I could easily imagine Kakashi's unhappy face at this point, and a shudder went through my spine.
Yep, there's going to be chaos. The fact that I know the three of them on a personal basis will help them, but how much?
I decided not to think on it too much because Kushina-nee-chan was suddenly in my face, looking concerned. "Tomoko-chan?"
Ah, I spaced out for too long.
"I-I'm okay, Kushina-nee," I smiled, reaching over to pat her head. Since she was kneeling to my height, it was more than enough to touch her hair, and it was actually as soft as it looked. Hooray! "I was just thinking. How about we start on those bentos now?"
Immediately, the worry was wiped off the woman's face to be replaced with a bright, blinding smile. Essentially, I was getting an eyeful of the main cheerfulness that would serve as the basis for Naruto's own smile, and to be frank, I felt both weirded out and honored knowing this. "Of course, Tomoko-chan!"
To my surprise, Kushina-nee-chan ran over to a cupboard, pulling out two aprons and tucking one over my head. I ended up looking down and getting an eyeful of blue plaid and white lace. I'm guessing she chose this one to match the white hair ribbon I was already wearing. Without even thinking, I tied the strings behind my back in a bow and just watched Kushina-nee-chan tie her hair in a ponytail, waiting.
Once she finished, Kushina-nee-chan pushed her long red ponytail behind her shoulder before grinning at me, an approving glint in her eye. "So, Tomoko-chan, what are Kakashi's favorite foods?"
I've really gotten myself deep into the lives of Team Minato and friends, haven't I?
Outwardly, I just smiled and giggled. "Well, there's miso soup and eggplant, then there's saury fish…"
By the time Kushina-nee-chan and I finished cooking and individually packing each bento box, it was almost noon, with the sun high in the sky. Since it was spring, there was a cool breeze coming through the open window, and I just decided to bask in it while looking down at our work.
For a 9 year old, I just felt proud with what I just accomplished with Kushina-nee's help.
There was a total of 6 large bento boxes sitting on the table in front of me, each about the size of a small delivery box, wrapped up in a large purple cloth. I didn't even have to reopen each package to know what was in each of them. Each box had a mix of different entrees and side dishes, including Kakashi's beloved saury fish, rice balls, pickled daikon, tamagoyaki, karaage, tempura shrimp, broiled salmon, and quite a few others I couldn't remember considering Kushina-nee's meticulous work. There was just so much that went into each bento box that I just couldn't keep track of it all as a result of my past memories.
In my past life, lunches were usually simple and compact. Mom in those days would either pack leftovers or a simple combination of rice, a different type of meat (either fish, chicken, or pork), and some boiled vegetables such as baby bok choy, accompanied by one or two fruit such as a small apple or tangerines. Whether it was for the better or not, the bento boxes sitting in front of me had a lot more variety with their food choices, having more than enough to satisfy everyone.
…Hopefully.
Despite that though, I still ended up adding quite a few of my own touches to the lunches. To be honest, I was shocked that fruits weren't initially in the plan for the bentos, and as a result, turned to my old blueberry muffin recipe to add a healthy dessert to all the food already there. Even though I hadn't made them in years, considering how my past life ended so abruptly and adding in the time I've lived so far in the Naruto-verse, it was like they were already implanted in my muscle memory, my hands knowing how to fold the milk and flour into the dough like a pro. By the time they came out of the oven, I was positive Kushina-nee was drooling a little, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride when packing them into their own blue cloth.
Even in this life, turns out my desserts still turns heads. Back then, Mom, Dad, and my brother all enjoyed my muffins and the other sweets I made, so knowing that I made Kushina-nee, the ramen-eating champion, drool at the sight of my creations made me happy.
If the main ramen-loving Uzumaki looked happy at the sight of my muffins, who knows about the other ninja?
"So, Tomoko-chan, you ready?" Kushina-nee had just taken the hair-band out of her hair, having already put away her orange apron to smile at me, picking up the large purple bundle from the table.
"I'm ready, Kushina-nee!" I just grabbed the small blue bundle sitting next to the purple one that carried all my muffins, positively beaming. "Let's go already!"
"Alright, alright, Tomoko-chan." The redhead Uzumaki only grinned, reaching over to pat my head. "We're going now." And with a swift opening of the front door, we were quickly out in the sunlight-paved roads of Konoha, walking.
Honestly, I was surprised no one was really giving us any apprehensive looks. Then again, considering that Kushina-nee was an accomplished ninja in her own right and that Kurama's existence was an S-class secret, I shouldn't be surprised.
…Probably shouldn't give Kushina-nee a scare by letting her know…well, that I know about Kurama. That would lead to way too much drama, emotionally and physically.
Ninja already have to go through a lot of shit. I don't want to add more to the poor camel's back.
"…So, where will we find Minato-san and Kakashi-kun, Kushina-nee?" At my question, the redhead simply turned her head to look down at me, smiling happily.
"Training Ground number 3, Tomoko-chan," Kushina-nee answered back, voice edged with a small bit of seriousness. "It was where the Three Sannin were tested by Hokage-sama when they first became Genin, so Minato thought it would be a good idea to bring his new team there."
"…Tested?" A part of me was thinking bell test, but I ended up asking anyway just to make sure.
"To make sure if they're ready for the life of a ninja, Tomoko-chan." Kushina-nee stopped for a moment to lean over and pat my head again. "You don't have to worry about that too much, though, sweetie — I'm sure they can handle it."
For once, my mind and heart were in agreement, and I just nodded. Considering how canon went, Team Minato would pass the bell test. The only thing that I wasn't sure of was how. In the original anime, canon Kakashi essentially used a formation that only resembled teamwork just to take a bell for his own. But I knew that my Kakashi wouldn't really resort to such tactics.
So then, how would…?
"Tomoko?" I blinked before looking around.
Did I just hear Kakashi?
Apparently I was spacing out too much because Kushina-nee simply resorted to putting a hand around my shoulders and turning me around to face the scene.
All I could think of was: I really space out way too much.
Somehow, in the time I was thinking, we had already arrived at the Training Grounds, green grass and all, and I could clearly see the figures of my best friend as well as an older Obito and Rin, all three panting. Even with the distance, I could make out telltale signs of scratches and exhaustion setting in for the three of them. On the other hand, Minato-san was still standing up tall, beaming like there was nothing wrong. It was only with the next breeze that I heard a familiar tinkle noise coming from their direction.
Looks like they did do the bell test after all.
I held back every urge to run over and hug them all in order to hesitantly step forward and wave, the blue bundle still in my arms. "Um…hello again, everybody?"
"Tomoko…?" It was Kakashi who caught his breath first, standing up almost shakily to walk over to me. "What are you doing here?"
In response, I just lifted up the blue bundle in my hands for my friend to look at. "To deliver lunch."
"…That's what the 'girls day out' was for?" Wait. Why did Kakashi sound so surprised? Just…why?
"Um, yes?" I replied, blinking and pointing to the happy redhead standing next to me. "I was with Kushina-san cooking."
"…That's it?" Now Kakashi was just sounding weird, silver eyes wide with…some kind of emotion I couldn't pinpoint. Maybe I was just reading into it too much since he was still sweating and breathing a bit shorter than usual.
Or was it just me overthinking in general? He was tired…
"That's it, what were you expecting?" My curious question apparently snapped him out of whatever funk he was in because Kakashi quickly looked to the side, not meeting my eyes. I guess he was expecting something else, but with how disheveled he looked, with tears in his black jersey and shinobi pants, the worrywart in me just went berserk. Here we go with more damage control. "But still, are you okay, Kakashi-kun?" Without even thinking, I took out a handkerchief from my skirt pocket, wiping at the visible sweat and scratches on Kakashi's face before even waiting for an answer.
Apparently Kakashi wasn't expecting my action and swerved his head to look at me in a mixture of surprise and shock. "…Tomoko?"
I just sighed. I guess he was spacing out just as much as I was today. "What's the matter, Kakashi-kun? You've been out of it ever since I came by."
The Chunin blinked before breathing out through his nose, still not meeting my eyes. "…It's nothing, Tomoko."
I don't trust that at all, y'know.
"…Kakashi-kun," I said dryly, continuing to wipe at any visible wounds with my handkerchief. "We've been through this already."
"And really, it's nothing this time." He insisted, stubborn tone in his voice.
"…Tomoko-chan?" The sudden sound of Obito's voice made me blink and look away from my infuriating best friend to only see wide black eyes through orange goggles. "Y-You…"
I blinked. "I what, Obito-kun?"
It was at this moment that Obito shakily raised a hand to point at both me and Kakashi, wide eyes darting between the two of us. "Y-You…know this asshole?"
Oh. Oh dear.
Looks like there's a misunderstanding here. I proceeded to ignore the quiet snickers of Kushina-nee next to me and carefully folded my handkerchief back into my pocket before responding dryly. "Well, Obito-kun, um…how should I word this?" For some reason, a huge lump came between my mouth and my throat, and I ended up looking at Kakashi for some help. In response, my friend simply raised an eyebrow, expression literally stating how much disbelief he had with the current situation.
…Well, I guess I'm on my own here. Shoot.
"Um…" I managed, voice becoming more and more high-pitched with each passing second. For some reason, my heart was going on a complete nervous marathon, so I ended up screwing my common sense over metaphorically and just blurted something out, motioning towards my best friend. "Obito-kun,thisisKakashi-kun,mybestfriendwho'snotanasshole!"
"…What?" Obito commented dryly.
"What?" Rin piped in, brown eyes blatantly showing her confusion.
"What?" Minato-san said slowly.
"…What was that, Tomoko?" Kakashi finished, tone literally showing how done he was with the whole thing.
My heart literally dropped in my stomach as I attempted to get a footing on my throat. "Um, well…" If possible, I might've been choking on my own saliva just trying to find something to say, hands fumbling with the blue bundle in my arms just in an attempt to collect myself.
How do you tell a friend that your best friend is not an asshole without sounding like a bitch about it?!
Kushina-nee still seemed to be laughing under her breath when reaching over to hug me to her side, visibly shaking. What a help she was being. Woo. "T-T-Tomoko-chan, just t-take — pfft — a deep breath, a-and try again, okay?"
At this rate, I swear I could cook an egg on my face just from how hot it was getting. This is really not the best time to be doubting myself. I forced myself to breathe in deeply before responding. "Um…O-Obito-kun, this is Kakashi-kun," With a shaky hand, I motioned towards my best friend who simply waved nonchalantly. "My best friend, your apparent rival, and a person who's not an asshole...?"
There was silence. Then…
"EHH?!" Even with the orange goggles over his face, I could clearly see Obito's eyes bulge considerably. "Y-You mean—" He shakily pointed at Kakashi before rounding back on me. "That best friend you always talked about was him?!"
My face was definitely a tomato at this point due to my mess-up. "…You never asked and it was really just customer confidentiality…?" I trailed off, voice still high-pitched as always.
Turns out keeping confidentiality wasn't really the best choice when two of your best customers would end up being on a team together and hating each other's guts. Especially when you're the middleman/woman trying to help on both sides without interfering too much.
"…So, this is how you got to know the fool then, Tomoko?" Honestly, Kakashi's sassy, dry remark didn't help matters because all it did was add more tension to the rather hilarious situation. "Now I understand why you didn't talk to me about him."
You're misunderstanding this, Kakashi-kun! It was all customer confidentiality! How was I supposed to talk to you about Obito when I know you hate him period!?
"OI!" Oh no, now Obito was rounding on Kakashi. This was escalating too quickly. "It was an honest mistake! I don't see YOU complaining about it!"
"There's no need," Kakashi huffed, and I was surprised to see him actively reach over and pull me into a side-hug. Eh? By chance, was he feeling possessive or tense all of a sudden? "Tomoko had her reasons — it was just your fault for not finding out sooner."
"ARGH! You wanna go at it?! I'm up for it!" Now Obito was actively trying to get in Kakashi's face, raising an angry fist.
"Ah?"
Kakashi, you're not helping with that nonchalant, 'cool' attitude! I found myself mentally panicking, glancing between the two ninja helplessly.
…Is this how Rin feels when being stuck between these two guys?
I honestly felt very small in the whole situation, even with my best friend nearby. Then again, I was kinda in the middle of what could be a guy fight, and I instantly knew that something had to be done.
"Uh…guys?" My small attempt only seemed to fall on deaf ears since the two just continued to glare at each other. In the panic, I attempted to glance at the others in sight, which included Minato-san, Rin, and Kushina-nee, mentally begging.
Please help! Anyone will do! Please!
…Unfortunately, no one was really attempting to do so. Minato-san was hiding a soft smile behind his fist, and Kushina-nee was full out laughing at that point. Rin was awkwardly standing at the sidelines, looking between all of us with a defeated smile.
Apparently they all were enjoying this at my expense…I think.
"You're just pissing me off, Bakashi!"
"Like you're one to talk, Obito."
"ARGH, just let me hit you for once!"
"Yeah, no. You can try. I highly doubt you can."
Honestly, I was just getting tired of this bullshit, especially when these two somehow pulled me into being in-between them. Without even thinking, I just unwrapped the blue bundle in my arms, taking out two blueberry muffins. One I decided to simply stuff into Obito's mouth, wrapper and all, while the other I just placed into Kakashi's open hand before turning around and pinching the masked ninja's cheek.
The reaction was instantaneous.
"Wha—MMPH!" Obito protested, mouth full of blueberry muffin.
"…Why, Tomoko?" Kakashi deadpanned, giving me a half-lidded stare while glancing at the muffin in his hands, apparently not reacting to my pinching his cheek. "Just, why?"
High pain tolerance is a thing already. Darn it.
In response, I just shrugged and continued to pull on the ninja's face a bit, hoping to get something out of him. "You guys were being dorks. Really ridiculous dorks. And it's past noon — you need to eat."
As if on time, everyone's stomachs let out varying degrees of growls in agreement, mine included. Honestly, with all the weird stuff that was going down, I just didn't really care anymore and ended up letting go of Kakashi's cheek just to hug him.
"…Neh, Tomoko-chan, if it's okay, could I get a muffin too?" Rin put her two cents in, blush painting her cheeks and coloring a bit of her purple tattoos.
I just sighed, lightly beating my head against Kakashi's shoulder, ignoring his tense figure.
With how Team Minato was turning out, it was going to be a long few years.