The First Paper Crane

Naruto sat down alone in the living room, the notebook resting on his lap. He was pondering whether he should bother reading it. He wanted to save his relationship with Ino, he loved her and could not bear the thought of her not loving him, but was it really going to work?

With shaky hands, Naruto opened the notebook to the first page. The words were written neatly in black ink. He recognised the handwriting – it belonged to Gaara. Naruto had seen enough paperwork with Gaara's signature to be able to decipher his writing now.

A relationship is not just based on physical affection. The first several months of marriage are blissful, filled with love, small touches and endless passion. But, that does not last. There is much more to a successful relationship. Spiritual fulfilment. One cannot be filled by just loving gestures. A couple must be able to communicate properly, understand each other and be able to have respect for opposing opinions.

The first task is simple. Show your spouse that you still care about the non-physical aspects of your relationship. Do something special for them, to show that you still care. It can be small, it can be big, in the end, it's the thought that counts.

Naruto sat back on the couch and sighed. His head was still aching from that morning, and he could not think of something to do to show Ino he cares. After all, she didn't even bother to come home. She was still living with Shikamaru and Temari.

Frustrated, Naruto dropped the book on the floor. It clattered loudly, and a small piece of paper slipped out. Surprised, Naruto leaned over to pick up the small paper.

It was a letter.

Mikan,

Your sister has graciously delivered your letter to me. I must admit, it is unlike you to have someone else deliver a letter for you. You would usually do this yourself. You've changed, Mikan. You're not the woman I married two years ago. You used to be so open, so proud of who you were.

I'm keeping this short, because I have work to do.

Gaara

Naruto bit his lip. He could not believe that the letter, so devoid of emotion was shared between Mikan and Gaara. It was so unlike them. Naruto couldn't bear the thought of it happening to him and Ino. But as he reread the letter several times, an idea formed in his head.

He could write letters to Ino. He could slowly get to know her again, and when she was finally ready to see him again, they could take it from there.

With determination, Naruto pulled out pen and paper and began to write.

When Temari handed Ino a paper crane, she was confused.

"What is it?" Ino asked as he held the delicate origami in her hand. Temari smiled brightly and put the kettle on.

"Open it," Temari advised. Curious, Ino unfolded the crane, expecting to find a pattern of some sort, but was greeted by words instead. She recognised the writing immediately and was tempted to throw the paper in the bin, but the look Temari gave her stopped her.

Nervous, Ino began to read it.

Dear Ino,

I don't think we've met before. I am the Hokage, Naruto Uzumaki. As you're reading this, you probably don't want to continue, but I beg you…please do.

You see, I'm married. Married to the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. For most of my life she was just a classmate, a girl who grew up with me and my peers. But as the years passed, things changed. She bloomed into a vibrant flower, and I couldn't help but fall in love.

We've had our ups and downs, but I've always thought we would get through it together. Now, I don't think that's the case. She hasn't honestly spoken to me in months. She keeps to herself, and when she does communicate with me, it's to point out my flaws. It hurts, Ino. As a woman, can you understand my wife's reasoning?

A few days ago, she left home. I haven't seen her since. Perhaps it's better this way. Maybe she needs some time for herself. But I'm worried. What if she never forgives me?

I hope you write back,

Naruto

Ino frowned. Why had he written it in such a peculiar way? Why didn't he just speak to her directly about the problem? And why on earth did he introduce himself like they have never met? Ino looked up at Temari, who was smiling happily she poured them tea.

"This is ridiculous," Ino grunted, "what is letters going to fix?"

"Who knows," Temari shrugged, "maybe you'll learn something?"

Ino snorted and tossed the paper aside. Temari watched the paper flutter to the ground sadly. It seems that Ino has really given up…

"At least…try to write back," Temari suggested. Ino ignored her. Temari sighed in defeat and handed Ino her tea.