Filler 5

Meal Time

"Goodbye, Temari," Shikamaru mumbled, facing the woman when they reached the two boulders that walled in the Hidden Sand Village from the outside world.

"Don't sound so happy. I'll be back for the next Chuunin exam," Temari growled before striding forward, taking the first steps out of Suna.

"Tch," Shikamaru grumbled under his breath as he watched Temari's back. He would still see her; by then, they would both be seventeen.

—o0o—

With his hand over his mouth to cover a yawn, Shikamaru pulled back his chair and sat down, eying the fruits, bread and cheese spread out on the breakfast table.

"You're up early. Let me guess the Konoha rep went back home," sneered Kankuro, passing by the table and immediately grabbing five pieces of bread— more than his usual share— before sitting down himself.

Shikamaru just glanced at Gaara's plate, noticing the half-eaten bun, before seizing the only remaining one. Taking a slow bite, he was more sleepy than hungry.

"So?" Kankuro asked while his mouth was still full.

Shikamaru chewed his food as he reached for the cup of steaming coffee.

"Oi!"

Shikamaru just took a slow gulp of his coffee.

Gaara pushed his chair backward and stood up; inclining his head ever slightly to signify that he was done.

Shikamaru nodded his head at Gaara when he felt a kick from underneath the table. Turning his head towards Kankuro, he inquired, "What?"

"Have you finally grabbed her ass as you kissed her goodbye?" Kankuro replied.

Gaara's steps faltered.

Shikamaru answered, "No."

Gaara went out from the breakfast room.

Kankuro laughed. "Why? Too scared she'll hit you with her big, bulky fan?"

Shikamaru just continued eating.

"Come on admit it. You've got the hots for her!"

Shikamaru reached for his cup once again.

Kankuro gave his big bro another swift kick under the table, this time much stronger.

Shikamaru just gave the younger shinobi a sharp look before wiping the coffee that dripped to the side of his lips.

Kankuro returned the look. "With that kind of nonchalant attitude, I can foresee her slipping through your fingers."

Shikamaru just kept on consuming his bread.

"My predictions usually come true, you know," warned Kankuro.

"Tch. Just eat you meal."

—o0o—

~2 24 12 AF P 2 20 13~

A/N: Hmn if I'm gone for a while, it's okay. It may mean I'm finally writing again.

And yep reviews, CRITICISMS for this and for my other stories are the best encouragement.