Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto.

A/N: Wow this should have been up a lot sooner than it was. I'm so sorry for the wait and thank you guys so much for all your encouraging words. I hope you enjoy the next installment for that is why writers write.

X

Shino never took off his coat if he could help it. Even in the summer, he kept it on as much as possible. It made it easier to blend into the shadows and even keep his emotions concealed with the collar. In a way, it was like his shield. Physically and emotionally. He never wanted to let it down.

There were those who could get past it though. One in particular that made him both eager and terrified to shed his shield. Right now it seemed she needed one though.

Tenten rubbed her arms as her breath clouded. Her thin jacket hardly enough to fight the cold as they watched the stars. Would she be angry if he offered though? She never accepted help no matter how small the form it came. Still, he was already reaching beyond his shield. He had by asking her out and she had drawn him further along by accepting. Maybe before long, at least around her, he could leave his protection behind all together.

Shrugging his coat off, Shino instantly felt exposed and swallowed hard as he slid it over her shoulders.

"Shino…" she looked up, and he was grateful for his glasses.

"You can enjoy it more if you are warmer. Why? Because you…"

"Aren't freezing to death?" she smirked. "What about you though?"

He smiled slightly, gesturing to his thick long sleeved shirt. Not to mention he also had a short sleeved one underneath along with his protective mesh vest.

Tenten nodded in thanks, then looking slightly coy as she put her arms through the holes, grabbed his hand.

"If I get your coat, then at least let me keep your hand warm."

Shino felt his face heat up as well and while one shield was off, he was again glad for the one on his eyes. He didn't know if he'd ever be ready to shed those, but at the same time he wondered. Then he pushed the thought and earlier ones away. If he did that, she would be able to tell he was always looking at her. Always waiting till she needed him, and that while he wanted to be her shield, he truly had none against her.

End of Four

A/N: Hope you guys enjoyed it and please let me know what you thought. Have a great day.

Be blessed

Your friend

innocent-rebel