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Chapter Four: A Day Unlike Any Other
The morning light filtered through the curtains, gently illuminating the serene room where Saruyo Uchiha and Naruto Uzumaki shared a bed. Saruyo stirred, her dark lashes fluttering as she woke to the soft warmth behind her. But something else caught her attention—something firm pressing against her full, rounded hips. Her eyes widened slightly as realization dawned on her.
Oh.
Naruto, in his sleep, had unknowingly shifted from her chest to her lower back, his arms draped loosely over her waist. His face was peaceful, lips slightly parted, but the firmness against her was anything but innocent. Heat crept up Saruyo's pale cheeks as she bit her lip.
"Seriously?" she muttered under her breath, though her voice lacked any real irritation. Instead, a flicker of amusement danced in her black eyes.
She slipped out of bed, moving carefully to avoid waking Naruto. As she straightened, she caught a glimpse of his sleeping form. His soft blond hair was adorably messy, his expression pure and vulnerable, and the rise and fall of his chest gave him an almost angelic air.
He's too innocent for his own good. Saruyo smirked faintly, slipping into her usual lacey white bra and a matching blouse that hugged her figure perfectly. The memory of last night—of Naruto's cluelessness about certain "adult matters"—resurfaced, making her chuckle. She shook her head and turned back to the bed.
"Naruto, wake up." Her voice was soft yet firm as she nudged his shoulder.
Naruto groaned lightly, burying his face into the pillow. "Mmm, Saruyo… it's a day off," he mumbled, his voice muffled and heavy with sleep.
Saruyo crossed her arms, arching a brow. "I know it's a day off, but we have things to do. Get up."
Naruto peeked up at her with groggy blue eyes. For a moment, he was captivated by the way her long, silky black hair framed her face and cascaded down her shoulders. Her perfectly tailored outfit highlighted her curves, and her confident stance made her all the more intimidating.
He gulped, his cheeks flushing. "A-Alright, Saruyo-sama."
Saruyo tilted her head, her lips curving into a teasing smirk. "Good. Now, hurry up and get ready." She turned on her heel and walked toward the door, her hips swaying effortlessly. Naruto watched her go, blinking several times before shaking his head furiously.
Focus, Naruto!
Meanwhile, in another part of town, Ino Yamanaka lay sprawled on her bed, clutching a stuffed bear to her chest. Her blue eyes stared at the ceiling, clouded with emotions she couldn't quite name. The memory of Naruto—his shy demeanor, his pure-hearted nature—replayed in her mind like a bittersweet melody.
She sighed heavily. Why him? she wondered for the hundredth time.
It wasn't just his intelligence or his unique charm; it was his innocence. That raw, untainted sincerity that seemed to shine through everything he did. It was something Ino had never encountered before, and it gnawed at her.
Why didn't I notice him earlier? She bit her lip, tears welling in her eyes. Her thoughts drifted to her past—to the countless relationships she'd had that ended in heartbreak. She'd given so much of herself, only to be discarded time and time again.
"Naruto," she whispered, the name catching in her throat. Her fingers tightened around the stuffed bear. "Why couldn't you have been my first love?"
Her mother's voice called from downstairs, breaking her reverie. "Ino! Breakfast is ready!"
"Coming, Mom," she replied, her voice barely audible. As she wiped her tears, she muttered to herself, "I'm such an idiot."
Back at Naruto's house, Saruyo adjusted her sleek white outfit in front of the mirror. The fabric clung to her body in all the right places, accentuating her generous curves and long, toned legs. Her reflection stared back at her with a mixture of confidence and determination.
Kushina's words from the night before lingered in her mind: Naruto will start drawing attention now that he's with you.
Saruyo's jaw tightened. "Let them look," she muttered. "But no one's taking him from me."
She ran a hand through her glossy black hair, the strands falling perfectly into place. Her dark eyes glinted as she thought about Naruto's natural charm. He didn't even realize how magnetic he was, and that made him even more irresistible.
As she stepped out of the room, she clenched her fist. "If anyone tries to take what's mine, they'll regret it."
Naruto, now dressed in his casual yet neat outfit, waited nervously by the door. When Saruyo appeared, he couldn't help but stare. The way her white dress hugged her body, the confident sway of her stride… she looked like she belonged on a magazine cover.
"You're staring," Saruyo said, her lips twitching into a faint smile.
Naruto turned bright red. "S-Sorry!"
Saruyo chuckled, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Relax. Let's go. We have a lot to do today."
As they walked out together, Saruyo's mind wandered briefly to her own feelings. She didn't understand why Naruto's innocence had such a hold on her. All she knew was that she had no intention of letting him go.
And as they stepped into the sunlight, hand in hand, Saruyo's dark eyes gleamed with determination. Whatever challenges lay ahead, she was ready to face them—and protect what was hers.
As the warm morning sun bathed the streets, Kushina hugged both Saruyo and Naruto tightly, her motherly smile brimming with affection. "Take care of each other, okay?" she said warmly. Saruyo, ever poised and confident, gave a small, sincere smile—a rare sight for anyone outside Naruto's immediate circle. "We will," she replied, her voice steady and assured.
Taking Naruto's hand, Saruyo led him out of the house. The moment their fingers intertwined, Naruto felt his cheeks heat up. Her touch was firm yet gentle, as though grounding him to the earth while also pulling him into her orbit. Walking beside her, he couldn't help but admire her striking beauty. Her long black hair shimmered under the sunlight, her alabaster skin almost glowing, and her dark, captivating eyes were set in a face so elegant it seemed almost unreal. She didn't speak much, but her presence was commanding enough that words felt unnecessary.
"Where are we going?" Naruto asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.
"The library," Saruyo stated simply, her tone leaving no room for negotiation.
"The library?" Naruto echoed, surprised.
"Yes. There's a new novel I've been meaning to read. You'll read it with me," she said, glancing at him with a faint smirk that made his heart skip a beat.
Naruto nodded quickly, unable to refuse her. "O-okay."
The walk to the library was quiet but not awkward. Naruto's thoughts raced as he tried to keep up with Saruyo's brisk pace. She held his hand tightly, her confidence radiating through the simple gesture. Despite her cold and distant reputation, there was a warmth to her when she was with him—a warmth he didn't fully understand but cherished deeply.
When they arrived at the library, Saruyo led Naruto to a secluded corner. She selected a book from the shelves with an elegance that made even this mundane act seem graceful. "This is the one," she said, holding up the novel. The title read "The Shadows of the Phoenix".
Naruto looked at the cover, which featured a fiery phoenix soaring through a stormy sky. "What's it about?" he asked.
"It's a story about resilience," Saruyo explained, sitting down beside him and opening the book. She leaned closer than necessary, her shoulder brushing against his. "A young warrior loses everything but rises from the ashes stronger than before."
"That sounds… intense," Naruto said, already captivated.
Saruyo nodded. "You'll like it."
They began reading together, with Saruyo holding the book open and guiding Naruto through the pages. For the first time in a long while, she found herself truly engrossed in the story. The protagonist's struggles and triumphs mirrored something deep within her, and sharing the experience with Naruto made it all the more meaningful.
As they finished a chapter, Saruyo closed the book momentarily and looked at Naruto. "So, what did you take away from this chapter?" she asked, genuinely curious.
Naruto thought for a moment before answering. "I think it's about how even when everything seems lost, you can find strength within yourself. The phoenix symbolizes hope and rebirth, right?"
Saruyo's lips curved into a smile—a real, unguarded smile that softened her usually icy demeanor. "Exactly. You're sharper than people give you credit for, Naruto."
Naruto blushed at her praise, scratching the back of his head nervously. "It's just what I thought," he said modestly.
Without warning, Saruyo leaned in and kissed him deeply on the lips. Naruto's eyes widened in surprise, his heart pounding wildly in his chest. When she finally pulled away, she looked at him with a mixture of affection and amusement. "That's what I want from you," she said, her voice low and intimate.
Naruto's face turned crimson, and he stammered, "W-what do you mean?"
Saruyo smirked and opened the book again. "We'll talk about it later. For now, tell me… what do you think of the antagonist, the Black Phoenix?"
Naruto hesitated, still flustered, but eventually answered, "I think… he represents the fear of change. He clings to power because he's afraid of losing control. If he just let go, he might find peace, but instead, he destroys everything around him."
Saruyo's eyes widened slightly at his insight. "You're… incredible," she said softly. "You see things most people overlook."
Naruto shrugged, embarrassed. "I just… think a lot, I guess."
Saruyo's expression grew thoughtful as she watched him. For all his shyness and self-doubt, Naruto had a brilliance that shone through in moments like this. She recalled Kushina's words about other girls being drawn to him and clenched her fists. She wouldn't let anyone take him away from her.
"Why aren't you at the top of your class?" she asked suddenly.
Naruto blinked, surprised by the question. "I don't know… I just don't want to stand out too much. I'd rather keep to myself."
Saruyo frowned, sensing there was more to his answer than he was letting on. "Why?"
"I… I don't want to talk about it," he said quietly, looking away.
Saruyo studied him for a moment before nodding. "Fine. I won't push you. But someday, you'll tell me." She leaned closer, her voice firm but gentle. "And from now on, you will be at the top of your class. I'll make sure of it."
Naruto's face turned red again, and he nodded. "O-okay."
Saruyo stood, taking his hand and pulling him to his feet. "Come on. We've got more places to visit today."
As they left the library, Naruto couldn't help but smile. Being with Saruyo was challenging and sometimes overwhelming, but it was also exciting and fulfilling in a way he'd never experienced before. And though he didn't fully understand it yet, he knew one thing for sure: she made him want to be better—for her and for himself.
As they entered the gaming center, the ambient glow of neon lights and the hum of electronic sounds enveloped them. Naruto glanced around, taking in the rows of high-end gaming PCs and consoles. He turned to Saruyo, a mix of surprise and admiration in his eyes.
"I never pegged you for a gamer, Saruyo."
She smirked, a playful glint in her eye. "There's a lot you don't know about me yet."
Approaching the counter, the attendant, a woman with short purple hair and a mischievous grin, looked up and immediately recognized Saruyo. "Saruyo! Got your usual setup ready."
"Thanks, Anko." Saruyo replied, then gestured to Naruto. "This is my friend, Naruto."
Anko leaned over the counter, her eyes gleaming with mischief as she lightly pinched Naruto's cheek. "Well, aren't you a cute one? Saruyo, where'd you find this one?"
Feeling the heat rise to his cheeks, Naruto stammered, "Uh, nice to meet you."
Saruyo's eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of possessiveness in her tone. "Hands off, Anko. He's with me."
Anko chuckled, raising her hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. But if you ever want to spice things up, you know where to find me."
As they moved past the counter, Naruto whispered, "She's... energetic."
Saruyo rolled her eyes, a fond smile playing on her lips. "That's one way to put it."
They settled into a private booth equipped with two high-end gaming PCs. Saruyo reached into her bag and pulled out a game case, presenting it to Naruto.
"Pro Evolution Soccer 2025?" Naruto read aloud, raising an eyebrow.
Saruyo nodded enthusiastically. "I'm a big football fan. Thought it'd be fun to play together."
Naruto's curiosity was piqued. "Really? Which team do you support?"
"Barcelona, of course." She replied with a proud grin.
Naruto leaned back, a playful challenge in his eyes. "Alright then, if you're such a fan, tell me their current lineup and coach."
Without missing a beat, Saruyo began, "In goal, Marc-André ter Stegen. Defense: Jules Koundé, Ronald Araújo, Pau Cubarsí, and Alejandro Balde. Midfield: Gavi, Joshua Kimmich. Forwards: Raphinha, Pedri, and Robert Lewandowski. And the coach is Hansi Flick."
Naruto blinked, impressed. "Wow, you really know your stuff."
She shrugged modestly. "Told you, there's more to me than meets the eye."
The sounds of the gaming center faded into the background as Saruyo sat back in her chair, arms crossed and eyes narrowed at the large screen in front of them. Naruto, on the other hand, sat beside her with an apologetic, nervous smile, gripping his controller awkwardly.
"I don't believe this," Saruyo muttered under her breath, her icy tone sharp even though she tried to stay composed. "How is it possible to lose… to you?"
Naruto scratched the back of his head sheepishly, his golden hair catching the dim lighting of the booth. "Uh, I'm sorry, Saruyo-sama… I didn't think I'd—"
"*It's not your fault.*" Her voice cut through his. She looked over at him, her eyes unreadable. "You're playing Real Madrid. I've played *hundreds* of matches before, and I never lose."
Naruto winced slightly at the tension in her voice. "W-Well, it's just a game, right? Nothing to get too upset over…"
Saruyo inhaled deeply, trying to calm her mounting frustration. "Right. It's just a game," she repeated, almost to convince herself. Then, with a sudden gleam of determination, she turned toward him. "One more. Let's play one more match. This time I'll win."
Naruto gave her a hesitant look but nodded. "Okay, Saruyo-sama. One more."
The next match began. Saruyo had her strategy in place, meticulously controlling her players, focusing intensely on the screen. Meanwhile, Naruto—despite his inexperience—seemed to play with an odd, natural fluidity. He was relaxed, his focus unwavering, and his movements seamless.
When the match ended, the results were undeniable.
"GOAL!" the game announcer boomed as Naruto scored his final point, defeating her for the *eleventh* time in a row.
Saruyo's controller fell onto the desk, her fingers trembling slightly. She sat frozen in disbelief, staring at the scoreboard. Naruto 11, Saruyo 0.
"I… lost again," she whispered. Her voice wavered, though she masked her emotions behind a sharp glare at the screen.
Naruto looked over at her nervously, unsure how to diffuse the situation. "Uh, Saruyo-sama… it's just a game. I-I didn't mean to—"
"Don't." She raised a hand, stopping him mid-sentence. Her eyes glinted with a mixture of frustration and disbelief as she turned toward him. "I've *never* lost to anyone. Not once. And now, to lose *this badly*..."
Naruto swallowed hard, sensing the pressure in her words. "I'm really sorry! I didn't mean to—"
"It's fine," she said abruptly, though the tightness in her voice betrayed her. She stood up, brushing off invisible dust from her sleek outfit. "Let's go. We're done here."
Naruto hesitated but quickly followed her lead as they left the gaming center.
The cold evening air outside seemed to cool Saruyo's frustration, though Naruto still felt the weight of her disappointment lingering in the atmosphere. She was walking slightly ahead of him, her arms crossed tightly over her chest, her sharp features set in a mixture of irritation and thought.
Inwardly, Saruyo replayed the matches in her head, dissecting every mistake she'd made and every move Naruto had countered with ease. *How did this happen? I lost… to Naruto. How is he so good at this?*
Naruto, walking behind her, mustered his courage. "Saruyo-sama… it's really okay. It was just a game."
She stopped abruptly, causing Naruto to nearly bump into her. Without turning around, she said, "There's one thing that might make me feel better."
Naruto blinked in confusion. "W-What is it?"
Saruyo spun around suddenly, her icy composure cracking as her frustration transformed into a bold, intense action. Grabbing his hand firmly, she pulled him into a nearby alleyway, away from the bustling street.
"S-Saruyo-sama, what—" Naruto began, but his words were cut off when she leaned in, pressing her lips to his in a fierce, almost bruising kiss.
Naruto froze, his eyes wide in shock as she poured all her pent-up frustration into the kiss. Her grip on his shoulders tightened as she leaned further into him, her emotions raw and unfiltered.
He tried to move back slightly, overwhelmed by her intensity, but she wouldn't let him. Her lips moved against his with such force that he felt the sting as her teeth grazed his lower lip, drawing the faintest trace of blood.
Finally, Saruyo pulled back, her breath heavy as she looked at him, her cheeks flushed and her eyes burning with a mix of anger and apology.
Naruto, dazed and breathless, brought a hand to his lips, feeling the sting where she had kissed him.
"I… I'm sorry," Saruyo said after a long pause. Her voice was softer now, tinged with regret. "I went too far. I didn't mean to hurt you."
Naruto shook his head quickly, his face still bright red. "I-It's fine, Saruyo-sama! R-Really!"
She reached into her bag and pulled out a tissue, stepping closer to gently dab at the small cut on his lip. Her touch was surprisingly tender, a stark contrast to her earlier aggression.
"I shouldn't have let my emotions get the better of me," she murmured, avoiding his gaze.
Naruto stood still, his heart pounding as he watched her closely. "I… It's okay. You don't have to apologize."
Finishing with the tissue, Saruyo hesitated before wrapping her arms around him in a sudden, firm hug. Naruto stiffened at first, but the warmth of her embrace melted his nerves, and he slowly raised his arms to hug her back.
They stayed like that for a moment, the tension between them easing into something softer.
Pulling back slightly, Saruyo looked up at him, a small, genuine smile playing on her lips. "Alright, let's head to our next stop."
Naruto nodded, his cheeks still flushed. "Y-Yeah."
As they stepped back into the busy street, Saruyo slipped her hand into his, holding it firmly as they walked. Despite the chaos of the day, Naruto couldn't help but feel a newfound closeness between them, even if his heart was still racing from everything that had just happened.
The crisp evening breeze swept through the bustling streets of Konoha, carrying with it a mix of city sounds and the quiet rustle of leaves. Ino Yamanaka walked alone, her long, golden hair flowing gently behind her as she strolled with no particular destination in mind. She had left the Yamanaka flower shop earlier, claiming she needed fresh air, but in truth, her thoughts were scattered, restless.
She stopped on a quiet corner, inhaling deeply, letting the cool air soothe her. But as she opened her eyes, her gaze landed on a sight that made her heart lurch unexpectedly.
There they were—Naruto Uzumaki, the shy, golden-haired boy she had noticed from afar, walking hand in hand with *her*.
*Saruyo Uchiha.*
Ino froze, her blue eyes narrowing as she watched the two of them. Saruyo walked with her usual air of calm confidence, her long, raven-black hair cascading down her back like silk, her piercing black eyes occasionally glancing at Naruto with an almost imperceptible softness. Her figure was impossible to ignore—tall, curvaceous, and strikingly feminine, with full curves that seemed to defy reason.
Ino clenched her fists at her sides. She knew Saruyo was beautiful. *Too beautiful.* With her flawless skin, perfect features, and cold, untouchable demeanor, Saruyo Uchiha was every bit the Ice Queen people whispered about. But what stung the most was the knowledge that Saruyo had something Ino could never reclaim.
*She's a virgin.*
The thought hit Ino like a blow, and her chest tightened as memories flooded her mind. She had once reveled in the attention of boys, indulging in fleeting passions and losing herself in moments of pleasure. But over time, those choices had left her hollow, filled with regret. And now, as she stood there watching Saruyo and Naruto, that regret burned brighter than ever.
"She's pure," Ino whispered to herself, her voice trembling with bitterness. "She's beautiful, desirable, and untouched. And me…" She bit her lip, tears welling in her eyes. "I'm just… broken."
Her vision blurred as she wiped her tears away hastily, letting them fall into her golden locks. Despite her outward confidence, despite her stunning beauty and curvaceous figure, she couldn't shake the feeling of inadequacy.
"I'm beautiful too," she murmured, as if trying to convince herself. "I'm desirable too. But it doesn't matter. Not to someone like him. Not when she's…"
Her words trailed off as she turned away, unable to watch them any longer. Yet, even as she walked in the opposite direction, a spark of resolve ignited within her. She stopped and glanced over her shoulder, her tears replaced by a look of quiet determination.
"I'll find a way," she said, her voice steady. "I'll find a way to get what I want. Even if she's Saruyo Uchiha, I won't give up."
Meanwhile, Saruyo and Naruto continued their walk through the village. Though Saruyo's expression remained as cool and composed as ever, a faint frown crept across her lips. She glanced over her shoulder briefly, her sharp eyes scanning the street behind them.
"Is something wrong, Saruyo-sama?" Naruto asked, noticing her momentary distraction.
Saruyo shook her head, dismissing the thought. "It's nothing. Just a feeling."
Naruto tilted his head curiously but didn't press further. He was still getting used to her quiet, enigmatic nature, and he knew better than to pry.
A moment later, Saruyo stopped abruptly, turning to face him. "We're going to make one last stop for today," she said.
Naruto blinked in surprise. "Another stop? Where to?"
Saruyo's lips curled into a faint smile. "First, we need to do some shopping. There are things I want to buy before we go."
"Shopping?" Naruto repeated, scratching his head. "What for? You've already bought so much today."
"It's not for me," Saruyo replied, her tone softening slightly. "We're going to the orphanage."
Naruto's eyes widened. "The orphanage? Really?"
Saruyo nodded, her gaze steady. "Yes. There are children there who need help, and I haven't visited them in a while. I want to bring them something meaningful."
Naruto felt a warm surge of admiration for her. Despite her icy exterior, moments like this reminded him of the kindness hidden beneath.
"Alright," he said, smiling. "Let's do it."
The two of them made their way to the bustling market district, where Saruyo led the way with a clear sense of purpose. She moved gracefully through the crowd, her presence commanding attention without effort. Naruto trailed behind her, occasionally stumbling as he tried to keep up.
They stopped at various stalls and shops, picking out toys, books, clothes, and other items for the children. Saruyo examined each item carefully, her discerning eye ensuring that everything she chose was of the highest quality.
Naruto, on the other hand, struggled to carry the growing pile of bags and boxes. "Do we… really need all of this?" he asked, his voice strained as he balanced a stack of toys.
"Yes," Saruyo said simply, not even looking back at him.
Naruto sighed but didn't complain further. He knew how much this meant to her, and seeing her so invested in something made him want to support her, no matter how heavy the load.
By the time they finished shopping, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm orange glow over the village. Saruyo glanced at Naruto, who was still carrying the mountain of bags with a determined expression.
"You're stronger than you look," she remarked, her tone laced with subtle amusement.
Naruto grinned despite his exhaustion. "Well, I have to be if I'm going to keep up with you, Saruyo-sama."
Saruyo's lips twitched into the faintest smile, but she didn't respond. Instead, she gestured for him to follow her as they made their way toward the orphanage.
After their long shopping spree, Saruyo and Naruto finally approached the orphanage, their arms full of colorful bags and boxes brimming with toys, books, and clothes. The modest building stood warmly against the evening sky, its soft, weathered exterior emanating a quiet sense of home. Saruyo's stride was steady and confident, while Naruto followed a step behind, slightly hunched under the weight of the bags but still determined to keep up.
As they reached the entrance, the door swung open to reveal a tall woman with vibrant red hair that cascaded down her back in loose waves. Her warm green eyes crinkled with delight at the sight of Saruyo.
"Saruyo-sama!" she greeted, her voice brimming with genuine excitement. "You've brought so much again! You always do."
Saruyo offered her a small smile. "I can't come empty-handed, Sara. The children deserve it."
The woman's gaze shifted to Naruto, who was standing just behind Saruyo, awkwardly balancing the pile of bags in his arms. His cheeks flushed the moment her eyes landed on him.
"And who's this?" Sara asked with a curious smile, tilting her head.
Saruyo stepped slightly to the side, allowing Naruto to come into view. "This is my friend," she said simply.
Sara chuckled softly and extended a hand. "A very shy one, it seems. What's your name, friend?"
Naruto hesitated for a moment before managing to stammer, "N-Naruto. Naruto Uzumaki."
Sara's smile widened. "Well, Naruto, it's nice to meet you. I'm Sara. I run this orphanage." She gestured to the modest building behind her. "Welcome."
Naruto offered a small, shy bow, his golden hair falling slightly into his eyes. "T-thank you. It's a pleasure to meet you, too."
Sara observed him for a moment, her smile turning playful. "He's charming, Saruyo-sama. A little awkward, but charming."
Saruyo's eyes flicked briefly to Naruto before she said in her usual calm tone, "He's just not used to this kind of setting." Then, without missing a beat, she asked, "Where are the children?"
Sara pointed toward a nearby room. "They're in the playroom, as usual."
"Good," Saruyo replied, turning toward the room. She glanced back at Naruto, who was still standing stiffly. "Come on. They're just children. Nothing to be nervous about."
Naruto swallowed hard and nodded. "R-right."
As soon as Saruyo opened the door to the playroom, a chorus of excited voices erupted. "Saruyo-nee-chan!"
A group of children, ranging from toddlers to preteens, rushed toward her, their faces lighting up with pure joy. Saruyo knelt down gracefully, opening her arms to welcome the swarm of little ones. They clung to her, some hugging her legs, others wrapping their arms around her neck.
Naruto watched in stunned silence, his heart skipping a beat. *This is… Saruyo?* He had never seen her like this before. She was always so composed, so cold, and distant. Yet here she was, smiling softly and hugging the children as if she had been doing it all her life.
"She's… warm," he thought, feeling a strange flutter in his chest. "Saruyo-sama… you're actually warm."
One of the older girls, a small child with pigtails and bright eyes, noticed Naruto standing awkwardly by the door. She tilted her head curiously. "Who's that, Saruyo-nee-chan?"
Saruyo glanced over her shoulder and gestured for him to step forward. "This is my friend," she said.
Naruto shuffled nervously, his face bright red. "H-hi," he managed, waving awkwardly.
The girl studied him for a moment before breaking into a wide grin. "He's pretty!" she exclaimed. "What's your name?"
"Naruto," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
The girl giggled. "I'm Hana. Nice to meet you, Naruto-nii-chan!"
Naruto smiled shyly. "Nice to meet you too, Hana-chan."
The children quickly warmed up to him, tugging at his sleeves and asking him questions. Saruyo, meanwhile, began unpacking the bags, handing out toys and books to the eager children. The room was soon filled with laughter and the excited chatter of kids showing off their new treasures.
After spending hours playing with the children, it was finally time to leave. The children gathered around Saruyo, their faces filled with both gratitude and sadness.
"Come back soon, Saruyo-nee-chan!" one of the boys said, clinging to her hand.
Saruyo knelt down, placing a gentle hand on his head. "I will," she promised. "Take care of each other until then."
As they walked out of the orphanage, Sara stood by the door, watching them with a knowing smile. "Saruyo-sama, you really are something else," she said. Her eyes flicked to Naruto, who was walking slightly behind Saruyo. "And your shy little friend is… intriguing."
Naruto flushed bright red. "I-I'm not shy!" he protested weakly.
Sara laughed softly. "If you say so. Come back anytime, both of you."
Saruyo simply nodded, her usual composed expression back in place. "Thank you, Sara. Take care."
As they stepped outside, Saruyo let out a small sigh, her breath visible in the cool night air. She glanced at Naruto, who was walking quietly beside her, his hands shoved into his pockets.
"That was…" she began, her voice trailing off. She closed her eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. "...a wonderful feeling."
The soft glow of dim lighting filled the hotel room, casting a warm ambiance over the space. Sakura lay under the covers, her bare shoulders visible as she pulled the blanket up to her chest, covering herself modestly. Beside her, Sai rested, his head propped on his hand as he gazed at her with his usual neutral expression, tinged with a hint of curiosity.
Sakura turned her head slightly to glance at him, brushing a strand of pink hair away from her face. "Sai?" she called softly.
"Yes?" he replied, his tone as calm and steady as always.
Her lips curved into a faint smile. "This… this was our second time together, wasn't it?"
Sai nodded without hesitation. "Yes, it was."
She chuckled lightly, finding his straightforwardness endearing. Despite his awkwardness, Sai always managed to surprise her with his honesty. That was one of the reasons she found herself drawn to him.
After a moment of silence, Sakura hesitated, her expression becoming more serious. "I want to ask you something," she said, her voice quieter now.
"Go ahead," Sai said, watching her intently.
Sakura adjusted her position slightly, keeping the blanket firmly wrapped around her. "Your blond friend… the one with the bright smile. What's his name again?"
"Naruto," Sai answered, tilting his head slightly as if curious where this was going.
"Yeah, Naruto," Sakura repeated, her green eyes thoughtful. "Do you think… do you think he could ever hurt a girl?"
Sai blinked, visibly surprised by the question. But his answer came without hesitation. "Naruto? No, that's impossible. He wouldn't hurt anyone, let alone a girl. He's probably the kindest person I've ever known. He wouldn't even harm an insect."
Sakura let out a soft sigh, her gaze drifting toward the ceiling. "Yeah… I kind of got that impression too. Especially when I saw him with Saruyo Uchiha. But… how did he end up with her of all people?"
Sai's lips curved into a faint smile. "Naruto has a way of connecting with people. It's not something you can easily explain. Even someone like Saruyo… I'm not surprised she was drawn to him."
Sakura turned back to Sai, her expression conflicted. "You know, my friend Ino… she has her eyes on him."
Sai raised an eyebrow, his curiosity evident. "Ino?"
"Yeah," Sakura said with a nod. "Naruto's… naturally likable. And Ino… she's noticed that."
Sai's expression remained calm, but there was a flicker of understanding in his eyes. "I see. But with Saruyo in the picture… it won't be easy for her, will it?"
Sakura exhaled deeply, her hand clutching the blanket as she spoke. "It's not just that. Ino's… complicated. There's something I need to tell you, but you can't tell anyone. Promise me, Sai."
"I promise," Sai said, his voice steady.
Sakura hesitated, biting her lip before continuing. "Ino's been through a lot. She's made mistakes. She… she got involved with the wrong crowd, with the wrong guys. She's been searching for love, but in all the wrong places."
Sai didn't interrupt, his gaze unwavering as he listened.
"All of them left her," Sakura continued, her voice tinged with sadness. "She's been hurt so many times. I tried to tell her to stop, to change her path, but she didn't listen. The last guy she was with… he was married. He used her to vent his frustrations, and when he was done, he left her. It broke her, Sai. It completely destroyed her."
Sai's expression softened, his eyes filled with quiet understanding. "That must have been hard for her."
"It was," Sakura said, her voice barely above a whisper. "And now… now she's set her sights on Naruto. She sees him as her last chance, her hope for something real. But how can she compete with Saruyo Uchiha? Saruyo is… untouchable. She's beautiful, strong, and cold. The most stunning girl on campus. And… she's untouched, Sai. Pure."
Sai's brow furrowed slightly. "That's… a lot for Ino to deal with."
"It is," Sakura agreed. "I've tried to warn her to stay away, but Ino's stubborn. She won't give up easily. And honestly… I'm scared. I just want her to find happiness, even if it's with Naruto. But… who would ever leave Saruyo for another girl? It's impossible."
Sai was silent for a moment, his gaze thoughtful. "Maybe you should talk to her again. Help her see reason."
"I'll try," Sakura said, her voice heavy with uncertainty. "But… I don't know if I can stop her. I just hope she doesn't get hurt again."
The room fell into a quiet stillness, the weight of their conversation lingering in the air. After a few moments, Sakura let out a humorless laugh. "This is exhausting to even think about," she muttered, pulling the blanket tighter around her.
Sai didn't respond, his presence a quiet comfort as they both drifted into their own thoughts.
The moonlight cascaded gently over the quiet streets as Saruyo and Naruto strolled hand-in-hand, their fingers interlocked in a way that felt natural yet meaningful. The cool evening breeze carried the faint aroma of flowers and distant street vendors. Saruyo, ever the composed and enigmatic figure, suddenly slowed her pace, her sharp senses alerting her to something.
She glanced around briefly, her dark, captivating eyes narrowing as though she sensed someone speaking about her from afar. It was an instinct she couldn't shake.
"Is everything alright, Saruyo-sama?" Naruto asked, his voice soft and filled with genuine concern.
Saruyo turned her gaze to him, her expression softening slightly. "It's nothing," she replied in her calm, measured tone, though a flicker of unease remained in her heart.
Naruto tilted his head, his boyish curiosity evident. "If you're sure…"
Saruyo nodded but then gestured toward a nearby ice cream vendor. "There's ice cream over there," she said, her voice taking on a gentler note. "Perhaps we can buy some?"
Naruto's face lit up with his signature grin. "Yeah, let's do that!"
They walked over to the vendor, each picking their favorite flavors—Saruyo choosing strawberry while Naruto opted for chocolate. Saruyo handed over the money with her usual grace, and they found a bench nearby to sit and enjoy their treat.
Naruto sat beside her, his posture slightly awkward as he licked his ice cream. He seemed blissfully unaware of how he looked—his bright blue eyes focused on his cone, his carefree demeanor making Saruyo's lips twitch into a faint smile.
As she licked her own ice cream, Saruyo's mind wandered to a conversation she'd had with Kushina not long ago.
"Naruto is quite the handsome boy," Kushina had said with a warm laugh. "It's only natural that other girls might notice him."
The words had stayed with Saruyo, despite her outward dismissal of them at the time. She didn't like the idea of other girls looking at Naruto, much less trying to take him from her. He was hers, and the thought of anyone else trying to intrude on their relationship sent a subtle but undeniable pang through her chest.
Saruyo glanced at Naruto again as he innocently licked his ice cream, completely oblivious to the effect he had on her. He truly was attractive, though he didn't seem to realize it himself.
She let out a soft sigh, her lips curving into a sly smile. "Naruto," she began, her tone catching his attention.
"Hm?" He turned to her, his cheeks already a little flushed, though he didn't know why.
"There's… something I want to try with you," she said, her voice calm but with an edge of intrigue.
Naruto blinked, tilting his head in curiosity. "What is it?"
Without answering immediately, Saruyo took another slow lick of her strawberry ice cream. Then, holding his gaze, she leaned closer to him. Before Naruto could react, she took a small amount of ice cream into her mouth, and in one fluid motion, she pressed her lips to his.
Naruto's eyes widened in shock as Saruyo's lips moved against his, her boldness catching him completely off guard. But this wasn't just any kiss—this time, Saruyo parted her lips, allowing her tongue to explore his mouth. It was a first for both of them, and Naruto felt his heart pound wildly as the sweet taste of strawberry mingled with the warmth of her kiss.
His mind was spinning, unsure of how to respond, but his body seemed to instinctively lean into the moment. Saruyo's tongue teased his gently, her movements deliberate and confident, as though she was marking her territory.
When she finally pulled back, both of them were left slightly breathless. Naruto's face was a deep shade of red, his lips tingling from the intensity of the kiss.
Saruyo smirked, clearly satisfied with his reaction. "That," she said softly, "was my first kiss with a tongue. And you should feel honored, Naruto."
Naruto stammered, his voice barely audible. "I-I… yeah, Saruyo-sama. I'm… I'm really lucky…"
Her smirk softened into a rare, genuine smile. "I like your honesty," she said, leaning forward to kiss him briefly again, this time more gently.
She leaned back against the bench, her ice cream forgotten for the moment. "Naruto," she said, her tone taking on a more serious edge, "soon, we'll take things further. I'm preparing myself for that, and you should too."
Naruto froze, his face somehow turning even redder. "Y-You mean…?"
Saruyu nodded, her expression calm but her dark eyes holding an intensity that made his breath stop. "Yes. You'll be the one who gets everything I have. But you have to understand this, Naruto—you're incredibly lucky. You're with a girl like me, someone who gave you her first kiss, who intends to share her first intimate moments with you, and who will one day give you everything. Do you realize how lucky you are?"
Naruto could only nod, his voice caught in his throat. "Y-Yes, Saruyo-sama… I'm… really lucky…"
Saruyo's lips curved into a satisfied smile. "Good," she said simply, reaching out to gently brush a stray hair from his face.
After a moment of silence, she stood and extended her hand to him. "Let's go home," she said. "And perhaps… one day, I'll share with you my past. A part of me that I've never shared with anyone before."
Naruto hesitated, then took her hand, his heart still racing from everything that had just happened. As they walked away, hand in hand, Saruyo felt a sense of calm wash over her. Despite her cold exterior, she knew that with Naruto, she had found something she didn't know she needed—a connection that went deeper than words.
The End
Things are getting interesti
What do you expect Ino to
And what do you expect Sakura to
And tell me Rick in the sto
And your commen
Here we go