A/N: Hello, everybody! Sorry if this chapter took a little! I've been very busy with my two jobs (and my extra side job has recently picked up a bit, too), and I was also on vacation in Nebraska, actually, until today, just got back home last night, haha! My bad! (I promise I'll answer everyone's INCREDIBLE reviews for any recently-read chapters ASAP! Sorry for delay, but I love and appreciate all of you!) But every spare moment I had, I was working on this chapter! I do apologize for the chapter length! That was not intentional! I actually thought this would be one of the shorter chapters, and I really tried to cut it down, but...it just kept getting longer instead! lol. Whoops! Hope that's okay and doesn't kill anyone! (This is the longest chapter yet, in fact, pfft!)

And on that note, I would like to explain that this is the catharsis chapter! Meaning, if you're not a nerd about writing terminology like me (I thought it sounded so cool when we learned it in 12th grade Advanced Placement English that I committed it to memory, okay? LMAO), a 'breath of fresh air/break from the emotions.' lol. In other words, this chapter does definitely still have a good number of feels in it, namely this first Shikamaru-Naruto section, and there are more strewn throughout, but for the most part, this chapter is meant to let these kids be kids and have fun/spend time with their families for once, dang it! lol. Hopefully that's okay with you lovely readers!

Fanart Inspiration: The last half of the final section was actually inspired by a really cute, sweet Tumblr art post I found a few months or so back! I asked Fresco Mayor (the artist) for permission to use their work as a basis, and they said yes! I'll provide as much of a link as I can, haha (thanks, FFN)! Hope you love it as much as I did! Just go to Fresco Mayor's Tumblr and look for /post/128591042694/8 ! (Also hope I did it justice in my fic! Thanks so much, Fresco! You're the the best!)

As far as this AU goes: I only just remembered today from rewatching eps for research purposes that, due to events in the Pein arc, Tsunade was not at the Summit. Danzo, as Acting Hokage, was, and that's why/how that son of a bitch finally got what he deserved (hallelujah!). But since the Pein arc hasn't happened yet in this AU...let's just say Tsunade went there instead and Danzo, as the selfish control/power freak who takes matters into his own hands because he thinks the Hokage is a fool he is, still dies in the exact same way.

Shikamaru comes back into Naruto's hospital room to find him straining to see out the window. He's craning his neck and holding himself up with shaky arms, even sitting on top of his pillows for a tiny bit of extra height. Shikamaru can't help but blink and breathe a laugh as he makes his way back to his side, and his fond smile only grows when Naruto turns to beam at him a second later. "Hey, you're back! So, how'd it go? Did they get going okay?"

Shikamaru nods as he sits back down, on the bed beside him this time. "Mm hmm. I made sure. Watched till I couldn't see 'em anymore, then double-checked with the Gate guards, too."

If possible, Naruto's beam just brightens as he chuckles. "Thanks, Shikamaru! I knew I could count on you!"

Shikamaru loses his breath at the sudden high praise, cheeks coloring some, but he just smiles softly with pride a moment later. "You're welcome, but it's not like it was a big job or anything."

Naruto raises an eyebrow and tilts his head. "Well, yeah, but it's not like I could have gone, so really," he grins toothily, "I appreciate it!"

Shikamaru stares at his smiling face, and the many times during this little visit that he'd wanted to hug the hell out of Naruto flash in his mind's eye…

A heartbeat, and then his arms are wrapped around Naruto as tightly as he dares. Naruto's frozen, unprepared and definitely confused, but he returns the hug without fail a moment later. Of course he does. He doesn't even consider stopping himself from closing his eyes and nuzzling in just the way he wants either. He knows Shikamaru won't mind. "Shikamaru…?" he prompts quietly once a few more moments have passed, only wanting him to explain if he wants. He won't push him. After all, he's certainly not complaining about this. He just wants to know if his friend needs him.

Shikamaru presses his face into his shoulder a little more, too, unable to help himself for one reason or another. "Sorry, I just…I've been barely holding this back for hours. So…indulge me for a little, will ya?"

And Naruto can't do anything with that but hug him tighter and press his face into the crook between Shikamaru's neck and shoulder. It's so warm, and he feels so safe and loved, and…he wouldn't trade this for anything. "Take all the time you need," he breathes. "I'm not going anywhere."

They stay like that for…well, neither of them is sure how long exactly. In the end, they don't really care. It makes them happy, and that's all that matters.

When they finally separate, Shikamaru ruffles his hair, and Naruto leans into it eagerly with a brilliant smile, just like always. Shikamaru softens. He wishes he didn't also remember the reasons he wanted to hug Naruto so badly…but he did, and he still wants to get to the bottom of it. Resolving to do just that, he takes a breath. "Naruto…" Naruto notices the change in him almost instantly, the more serious air about him, and sobers, "...there's something that's been bothering me, and I was hoping you could clear it up."

Naruto isn't sure what he means, but he trusts him. He nods. "O-okay. What is it?"

Shikamaru's eyes roam over Naruto's injuries, the legs he still can't use, the arm he couldn't move until a few days ago, the endless bandages peeking out of his hospital gown—

Thinks about the way Naruto still flinches and has to steel himself when people yell too close to him or move too quickly around him, the haunted way he stared at the blood Sakura dealt, how he shielded himself from Granny Tsunade, of all people, when he thought he was going to be hit and cast out—

Has kept a running list since they were kids of how the tiniest things no one else would ever keep or hold dear or think twice about (flowers, a get-well note, a 'be back soon' scribble) mean the world to him, how he breathes in and drinks up any hint of fondness like it's the air and elixir of the gods, how the tiniest brush of physical affection will make his touch-starved soul yours for all time…

…All the scars on Naruto's heart he can't see…

He has to swallow back his rage and, more importantly, the lump steadily growing in his throat. He's gripping his knee and the sheets in a death grip again, but he doesn't care. It's warranted, damn it. "You…you were a child, and they still…"

His knuckles crack while Naruto's brow furrows. How could anyone do that to a kid, let alone Naruto? He's a fucking ray of sunshine, and Shikamaru specifically remembers that being especially true when he was little! Naruto had wanted the other villagers to learn to like him, to know he wasn't as bad as they thought, the other kids in particular, so he'd done his best to be kind and well-behaved and sweet, just himself, really, knowing just from watching the others that they wouldn't like him if he wasn't. But obviously, it hadn't worked, and that's the worst part of it. They'd hated him even more for it, and to know it got to the points Naruto's talked about… It makes Shikamaru want to be sick, never mind kick those villagers' asses to high Heaven.

Naruto'd had no idea he had the Nine Tails in him due to the Third's decree, and those villagers knew that. Their kids probably didn't, just followed their parents' feelings of hatred, and he knows the Kononha 11 are no different in that respect, but still… At least the Konoha 11 didn't hurt him, and they never actually hated him either. Honestly, he still doesn't understand what the adults' problem was. It's not like Naruto chose to be the Nine Tails' vessel. It's not like he'd wanted it, like he'd asked for it. He wasn't even an hour old when it was sealed inside him, for God's sake! (Although, if asked, he's sure Naruto would say he wouldn't have wanted to pass his burden to anyone else because then they'd suffer, too, and he wouldn't want that…the idiot…)

All Naruto knew was that the entire village had hated him for seemingly no reason all his life, had chased and beaten and poisoned him, wished him dead, did anything and everything they could to make his life a living hell. And then, once he found out years later at a still-tender twelve, at least from what Iruka-sensei's told him and what he saw of Naruto afterward, he was terrified, horrified, disgusted, hated himself even more. Every horrible thing that had ever been said or done to him now suddenly, finally made sense, he was able to put a real name to it instead of the one he'd made up to save his own sanity (if he hadn't, Shikamaru knows Naruto pictures himself in the old Gaara's shoes, and he still wouldn't have blamed him for anything)…

But at what cost?

None of that was fair or right or anywhere close, and it drives Shikamaru crazy with regret and heartache and fury at himself that he didn't see it, didn't put together the Nine Tails' sealing for himself, didn't step in and help and heal more than he did. He was just as ignorant as the rest of them, in his opinion, even with his father encouraging him to make his own decisions about Naruto, even with all the times he did his best to reach out and protect him, even from the shadows, and he hates it more than he's hated just about anything.

But still, in spite of all that—!

Like he's rescuing him from unforgiving depths, Naruto reaches out to gently uncurl his white-knuckled fingers from the sheets and around his knee, and as he runs his thumbs feather-lightly over the backs of Shikamaru's fingers, he looks at him like he's the most precious thing in the entire world.

Shikamaru's heart leaps and twists at once. Oh, Naruto… That's how everyone in this village, everyone in the whole damn world, should be looking at you…

"Whatever you're thinking about, it's hurting you," he observes quietly. He smiles, but it's halved between pained and loving. Maybe the pain of loving. He squeezes his fingers gently. "I don't like it when you're hurt, so…would ya tell me what you wanted to say already? Please?" A heartbeat. "You said I could help, right? So let me."

Shikamaru doesn't…know how to start at first, if he can. This is a lot more emotional than he thought it would be… But he looks into the bright, deep blue depths of Naruto's eyes and takes another breath, deeper this time than the last, in through his nose and out through his mouth. Threading his fingers through Naruto's, he squeezes right back. Maybe a little stronger, half for himself and half for his friend.

—Despite all of that, despite everything, Naruto still turned out like this, the sun in so many of their lives, his especially, and Shikamaru is where he is now, right at his side, where he's realized he always wants to stay.

That isn't something to regret. That's something to celebrate like hell.

It's what lets him know he can do this, too.

He swallows and takes another breath, then fixes Naruto with a determined stare. There's righteous fire in his eyes. "You told Choji and me about how you were poisoned a few times when you were little. You also told Temari and Kankuro about being chased and beaten, especially on your birthdays, and you were happy and relieved that the villagers didn't have a chance to do anything to you on your birthday this year." Naruto blinks, stomach sinking a bit. Did he…really tell them all that? That was…mostly just in passing, though, right? So, why…? Shikamaru narrows his eyes some, squeezing his hands again. "I need you to tell me who they were, everything you can remember. Names would be preferable, if you have them."

Naruto looks at him with searching eyes, lips parted slightly. That…is not what he was expecting. "But…I don't think I have any…" He scratches the back of his head before taking up Shikamaru's hand again. "It—it was so long ago, and I was just a little kid for most of it. I…I barely remember their faces, and I don't think I ever knew their names—not enough to remember them now, anyway…" He shrugs. "B-besides, a lot of the adults covered their faces with scarves and stuff so they wouldn't be recognized, so…"

Like the string that's been holding him up's been cut, Shikamaru deflates with a rough sigh. He thought it might be something like that, but still…he was hopeful… "So, you're telling me you can't remember anything?" He sounds tired—exhausted, even.

Naruto nods, raising an eyebrow. "Yeah, that's…what I just said." He tugs gently on his hand, not unlike a little kid. "I don't get it, though. Why's it matter so much anyway?" He offers a small, confused smile. "Like I said, it was a long time ago, right? So what's with the third degree all of a sudden?"

Shikamaru looks wounded, and then an inferno blazes behind his eyes. "Because it's still hurting you!"

That sucker punch leaves Naruto breathless. "W-what?"

Shikamaru squeezes his hands. "I'm not blind, okay? I know you, Naruto. I've been your friend for years now, and you've said yourself I'm smart and observant as hell. Don't think I don't notice the signs, the ways those bastards still hurt you to this day." Taking a breath, he's calmer and softer when he speaks up next. "I don't know. It might all be subconscious for you or just so ingrained that you don't even notice. But two examples are how you shielded yourself from Tsunade and the look on your face after Sakura hit you, more so once you saw the blood in your lap."

Naruto is staring at him, pale and feeling so very exposed. His hands shake the smallest bit in Shikamaru's grasp. He knew all that, but… He feels like he might be sick…

Shikamaru sighs, then rests Naruto's hand on top of his other one so he can sandwich them between both of his. He hates that he's hurting Naruto with this. He was trying to help, but… "Look, Naruto…" his voice is gentle, barely above a whisper, "…I couldn't protect you back then, so I want to be there for you now. That's the only reason I'm asking. I just thought, if you knew anything…"

Naruto swallows, and it takes him a moment to find his voice. "I…I figured… You wouldn't ask something like this unless you had a good reason…" He huffs something of a laugh and half-looks up at him, eyes haunted even as he offers a tiny smile. "I know you, too, remember?" He licks his lips, his mouth suddenly very dry. "I'm sorry I can't help, but I honestly don't remember anything. All their faces kind of blend together in my mind, and I don't remember any of their names, if they ever said them around me." He snorts, but it's more sardonic than anything. "They were really careful about that…"

Letting that sink in, Shikamaru sighs again, lighter this time, before he closes his eyes and leans forward to rest the star of his face against their joined hands, Naruto's in particular. "I understand," he breathes, barely that. He definitely sounds exhausted now. "I hurt you by bringing this up. That wasn't my intention. I'm sorry. Just…forget I said anything, okay?"

Whoosh!

The next thing he knows, Naruto is throwing his arms around Shikamaru's neck and hugging him as tightly as he can. He buries his face in his shoulder and shakes his head vehemently. "No! No, I—I get it, I do! I appreciate it, really! You—you have no idea how much!" He trembles a little in Shikamaru's hold, his voice a little choked when he speaks up again, and Shikamaru just holds him tighter. "You're the first person to ever ask something like this, to—to ever offer it. I was just…caught off guard, that's all. All those memories at once…" He breathes a weighty laugh. "It's fine, though. I can—I'm okay, I swear…" He presses his face deeper into his shoulder. "Thank you, Shikamaru…"

Shikamaru lets his fingers curl in Naruto's hospital gown and shakes his head in turn. "You don't have to thank me. Hell, I feel like I did more harm than good, but…you're welcome anyway."

He hates knowing he's the first (only) person to offer something like this, knowing Naruto's history like he does. The fact that some of them covered their faces like fucking cowards while brutalizing a child… Shikamaru doesn't think he'll ever be able to forget that. It's revolting. But in the end…he knows Naruto's right. It was so long ago, and getting justice for it now might only bring him more pain, particularly when he's just getting the village to see he's more than the demon they always thought. And on some level, Shikamaru knew that, but…he still wanted to try. He still wanted to do what he could to help, especially if some things are still happening, at least on his birthday. And even if he can't do anything about the past…he wishes there was something he could do in the present, for his future, too…

"You know you don't have anything to feel guilty or sorry for, right?"

It's said so quietly, so sacredly, Shikamaru almost misses it, but he's glad he doesn't. Slowly pulling back, he looks at Naruto with wide eyes, feeling exposed himself now. Of course, that's not really an unfamiliar feeling with Mr. Emotional Intelligence himself. "Meaning what, exactly?"

Naruto beams in that way of his that never fails to make Shikamaru feel better, big and bright and warm, and Shikamaru feels affection storm his chest. "You're here with me now, aren't you? Hell, you protected me just the other day when Sakura punched me. So don't worry about back then. What matters is where you are now." He said something similar to Gaara just a few days ago, didn't he? His smile turns soft and sheepish. "I'm sorry, too, though. I made you worry. That's the last thing I wanted to do."

Shikamaru blinks, and then snorts, smirking. "You're my friend and our number one knuckleheaded ninja. It's in the job description to worry about you, idiot."

Naruto just chuckles. "Right..." He holds out a fist with a wide smile. "So just…keep being my friend, okay?"

Shikamaru stares for a moment before breathing a laugh of his own. That's his Naruto, all right… He bares a toothy grin as he knocks their fists together.

"Always."

Hours later, just after Naruto's finished his dinner, including that day's dose of Temari and Kankuro's healing elixir (it works best before bed, Shikamaru was told, so he figured with dinner would be best), Naruto is telling Shikamaru about how Gaara stopped the Raikage from fighting Sasuke at the Summit, and Shikamaru can't help but burst out laughing along with his friend.

"Gaara really said that to the Raikage?! Man, that guy really has no fear when it comes to you, does he?" Not that he can blame him, of course. He really has come to appreciate that about him.

"Oh, it's true, all right," both boys look over at the new voice, "and it really was that funny!"

Naruto beams. "Granny Tsunade!"

Shikamaru grins softly, nodding in greeting. "Evening, Lady Tsunade."

She smiles at them both, ruffling Naruto's hair as she reaches them, as she's wont to do. "Evening, boys. You seem like you're in good spirits." Sitting on the bed at Naruto's side, she gets to the point, smile growing, a bit of a smirk tacked on to the end. "So, how'd you like your little surpri—ahhh!"

Naruto is practically tackling her in a hug before she can blink, and she laughs out loud in delight while hugging him back. "It was the best surprise ever! Thank you so much! You're the best, you know that?" He buries his face in her shoulder, breathes her in. After a moment or two of soaking it all in, his voice lowers, softens. "It was so good to see them. I haven't gotten to really visit with them in a long time. It was…" he breathes a laugh, "…exactly what I needed. Thank you so much."

Tsunade strengthens her hold, expression melting. "I'm so happy to hear that, Naruto. I had a feeling it might help. I think it helped them, too." They stay like that a little longer before she slowly pulls back. "So, what exactly did I miss?"

"Oh, don't worry, I'll tell you everything!"

"You should show her what they brought you for your birthday, too," Shikamaru suggests, loving the way Naruto lights up at the reminder.

"Oh, yeah!" Hands fisted excitedly at half-mast, his eyes shine when he looks at her. "You wanna see, Granny?"

Tsunade can't help but laugh. His enthusiasm is infectious. "I'd love to!"

Shikamaru watches it all with a perfectly content smile. Honestly…such a charmer…

The next two days pass quickly. Naruto is ever so slowly getting stronger, and he thinks he even feels the Nine Tails shift once or twice for the first time since he woke up. Maybe it's finally waking up, too, or at least getting there.

Once it does, he's hoping they can talk. He still has a lot of questions, and he still wants to thank it, too.

Shikamaru is more than happy to stick by his side through it all.

"Hey, Sakura! What brings you here so early?"

Sakura snaps out of her thoughts at the familiar voice. Looking up, she smiles, a bit sheepish at having been caught spacing out admiring her friend's flowers. "G-good morning, Ino!"

Ino, dressed in her work apron, walks over to her shop's outside perimeter and crouches down beside her. Tilting her head, she smirks a bit. "With you so quiet all the way down here, I thought you were one of my flowers for a second! You're lucky I didn't try to water you!"

Sakura can't help but laugh at that, sticking her tongue out playfully before raising her hands in her own defense. "S-sorry about that. I didn't mean to space out, I just…" She looks back at the flowers. "I haven't been by to see Naruto since Lady Tsunade's punishment the other day, so I wanted to bring him something." Ino narrows her eyes and raises a slightly judgmental eyebrow, and Sakura rushes to explain. "I-I only didn't go because Naruto had some guests – Gaara, Temari, and Kankuro – and I wanted to give them their space, I swear!" She rests her hands on her knees. "You know how much Naruto loves them, especially Gaara."

Ino nods, sighing in relief with a hand going to her chest. "Oh, good! For a minute there, I thought you were gonna say you and Naruto got into it again or something!"

Sakura's eyes widen, though she unfortunately understands and owns up to the confusion, and she shakes her head vehemently. "N-no way! Never again, if I can help it! I promised him and myself I'd never be that blind again!" Her expression is so earnest, it'd actually be kind of funny if circumstances were different.

A heartbeat, two, and then Ino drops a warm, solid hand on Sakura's head with a chuckle. "Hey, don't worry so much." Her voice is kind and gentle, and a surprised Sakura sees her matching expression when she looks up. "I know you meant what you said when you were here the other night, and I know you really are going to do your best to make up for your mistakes. That's the kind of person you are, billboard brow." She winks, smile growing. "Trust me, I know my best friend. You don't have to explain yourself to me. Not about this, anyway."

Sakura smiles happily, a like blush painting her cheeks. "T-thanks, Ino!"

Ino laughs. "Of course! What are friends for, right?" Turning to the flowers Sakura's been looking at, she points and asks, "So are these the ones you wanted to bring him?"

Sakura frowns a bit. "Maybe…but I'm not really sure which ones would be best. It doesn't have to be a lot, just a few to remind him I'm still thinking about him and wishing him well, even when I'm not there…"

Ino hums as she goes through her mental list for a moment, then brightens and takes Sakura's hand. "I know just the ones!" She pulls her to her feet and across the way. "Come with me!"

About five minutes later, Ino has a small, but pretty bunch of flowers for Sakura all ready to go, tied carefully together with an orange bow. "Wow, Ino! These look great!"

Ino beams with pride. "Why, thank you! I try! Especially when it's for our resident sunshine!" Crossing her arms over her chest, she sighs. "I wish I could go, too… Between working here and doing random missions with Choji and some of the others, I haven't been able to go see him at all…"

"Then why don't I take over for the rest of the day?"

Ino and Sakura turn at the new voice coming from the shop's doorway, and Ino lights up when she sees who it is. He must have come through the back. "Dad! You're home early!"

Hurrying over, she hugs her father tightly, who laughs and hugs her right back. "I missed you, too." Dropping a kiss to the top of her head as they separate, Inoichi nods politely Sakura's way. "Good morning, Sakura! Nice to see you again! It's been a while!"

Sakura dips her head in turn, a small smile on her face. "G-good morning, sir. Yes, it has. It's nice to see you, too."

Inoichi blinks for a moment at that first part before laughing out loud, reaching over to ruffle Sakura's hair gently. "I appreciate the respect, dear, but I've known you since you were barely at my knee. Just 'Inoichi' is fine, remember?"

Sakura flushes at that, having forgotten since it's been so long (between her missions and his work, they don't see each other terribly often), but nods anyway. "Y-yes, s—I mean, I-Inoichi. Thank you."

He nods. Then, glancing between the two girls, he asks, "Now, what's this I hear about Naruto?"

Ino looks up at him with so much joy in her expression that it almost brings tears to Sakura's eyes. "Naruto finally woke up, Dad! Just over a week ago now! Isn't it great?!" She sighs heavily with relief all over again. "I was so worried…!"

Like a switch is flipped, her father softens. "I know you were, sweetheart." He takes a deep breath himself. "To be honest, I was, too, and I know it's the same for a lot of people in this village." Rubbing the back of his head, he chuckles. "That boy's sure turned us into devoted worrywarts, huh?"

Sakura chuckles and smiles fondly. "He sure has!"

Ino snorts. "You've got that right!"

Inoichi chuckles, then makes a shooing motion in the general direction of the hospital. "So, why don't you two get out of here, go see him together? I'm sure he'd appreciate the company!"

Ino blinks. "B-but I've still got a few hours left of my—!"

Inoichi holds up a hand and shakes his head, a small smile on his face. "Now, Ino, what have I taught you?"

Ino tilts her head. "About what, Papa?"

"About what's important. Your mother and I are the ones who make your shift schedule, and normally, we have you stick to it to help you maintain your sense of responsibility off-mission." His smile grows. "But your friend just woke up from what was basically a coma, honey. You know how much he loves you and all your other friends, so I'm sure he's been eagerly waiting for you to visit him."

Ino blinks as what he's saying sinks in, and she smiles warmly. She can picture Naruto waiting for all of them in her mind's eye, affection curling in her chest. "I see. You're right."

Inoichi's smile widens. "Plus, you've been working here and on missions quite a bit lately since Naruto and Shikamaru are out of commission and some of your other friends are out tracking Sasuke or on training missions of their own. You deserve the break, and since I'm home early for the day, I don't mind taking over this once." Another thought crossing his mind, he laughs while scratching the back of his head."Besides, if Shikaku and Choza found out I didn't let you go see Naruto the first chance I could, they'd have my head! Their boys really do adore that knucklehead something fierce," he laughs a little more, "especially that Shikamaru." Ruminating on that a moment, he warms and whistles appreciatively. "To be so incredibly loved by one of the Leaf's most promising shinobi at that age…and, hell, to know it's so wholeheartedly returned…"Breathing a laugh, there's something impossibly fond and almost proud, maybe even a touch nostalgic, in his expression. "Shikamaru and Naruto are lucky to have found each other…"

Ino softens right along with him. "You're not wrong. Those two've always been drawn to each other," she giggles, "even if they're only just starting to realize what it means."

Sakura has only just become aware of the strong bond between Naruto and Shikamaru and how deep it really goes, but she doesn't miss the significance of what they're saying either. She looks toward the hospital, where Naruto and Shikamaru are no doubt still joined at the they have really is special…must be, if even Inoichi is moved by it.

Inoichi gently turns Ino around to untie her apron and throw it on himself. "So you two go have fun, and your mother and I will see you whenever you get back, all right?"

Ino launches herself at him again, this hug tighter than the last. "Thanks, Dad! You're the best!"

Inoichi gladly returns the embrace with a chuckle. "You're welcome, love." Pulling back, he asks, having already seen the flowers in Sakura's hand, "I'm sure you want to bring something, too, right?"

Ino nods confidently, grinning from ear to ear. "Yep! I know just the thing!"

Sakura's about to point out that Ino just had her deliver flowers a few days ago, but thinks better of it. She's sure Ino knows what she's doing. A few minutes later, Ino has her own small bunch of specially-picked flowers, tied with a blue bow that matches Naruto's eyes, just like last time. "All right, I'm all set!" She turns to beam at Sakura. "Ready to go see our boy?"

Sakura blinks at the new nickname before she brightens even more. She nods. "You bet!"

When the girls arrive, they find they're not the only ones who decided to visit today.

"Oh! Hey, Sai!"

Sai looks up at the greeting, and he offers a small smile, raising a hand. "Good morning, Sakura, Ino!" Tilting his head, he chuckles. "It seems the three of us were on the same wavelength."

Both girls laugh. "Looks like it!"

"Hey, Ino! Hey, Sakura! Long time, no see!"

They look over to see Naruto waving like crazy and smiling like the sun. It's enough to make Sakura soften and get Ino choked up. Just like they knew he'd be, Shikamaru is sitting right by his side, lazily leaning over on his legs. He smiles, tossing a knowing glance Ino's way, and waves just the once. "Mornin', you two. Looks like we've got a little party goin' on today."

Naruto laughs delightedly. "Yeah! Isn't it great?" He turns back to look at Ino. "Hey, Ino—"

He cuts himself off, startled at the tears in her eyes and the way she's sniffling. His eyes widen, and he waves pacifying hands in front of him. "W-whoa, whoa, hey! What's the matter? Did I say something wrong?"

Ino answers with an embrace that's probably too tight, but right now, she doesn't care. He half-deserves it. "You scared me, you idiot!" she reprimands, teary voice somewhere between normal volume and a yell. Naruto winces, but doesn't protest, slowly reaching up to hug her back. He had a feeling it was probably this… "One minute, you're leaving to go after Sasuke again, and the next, you come home practically in a body bag!" The others flinch at the almost-true imagery, but she's not wrong. Ino certainly has a way with words… "And that's not even the worst part! You were basically in a freaking coma for almost two weeks, so I couldn't even make sure you were okay in here, too!" She presses a few fingers into his right shoulder blade, and Naruto knows she means his heart. "Shikamaru and Choji were worrying themselves sick—" she can feel the former's unimpressed glare, but he's just gonna have to deal with it, "—Sakura wouldn't talk to anyone or leave her house, and everyone else has been on missions or training, so I couldn't even take care of anyone!" Those close to her know that's how she best deals with stress, by making sure those close to her are well cared for.

She gives herself a few moments to calm down. Her hand slowly comes up to cradle the back of his head, and her voice is softer and a little quieter when she starts up again. "You were reckless and hardhead and stupid enough to almost get yourself killed…"

Naruto nods into her shoulder, feeling guilty and loved in one. It's a confusing, but somehow still nice combination. "Yeah, I know," he returns quietly, nuzzling into her shoulder a tiny bit. "I'm sorry I worried you so much. I never meant to worry anyone, I swear."

She revels in his nuzzling, finding it adorable as hell, but after a few beats of comfortable, companionable silence, she slowly pulls back to cup his cheek. Her expression is so soft and her eyes so kind that it steals his breath. She's looking at him like he's…someone precious, someone she'd never want to lose… Naruto's heart pounds in his chest, cheeks dusting a light pink. "But you were also ridiculously selfless and protective and sweet and…" her smile grows despite herself, "…a lot of conflicting things that make it really hard to stay mad at you, you know that?"

Naruto blushes a little more and looks away with a shy chuckle, scratching his cheek. "I-I don't know about that… I-I just wanted to protect my friends and…" he winces again, a shadow passing over his eyes, "…stop Sasuke, if I could…"

Ino just shakes her head and sighs. Reaching out to take his chin in gentle fingers and bring his eyes back to her, she gives him a helpless smile. "Well, next time, do you think you could do it without almost dying on us?"

Naruto rubs the back of his head and smiles sheepishly. Shikamaru's relieved to see the shadow gone from his bright-again eyes. "Hey, if I have my way, there won't be a next time, so hopefully you won't have to worry about me anymore, okay?"

Ino snorts and ruffles his hair semi-roughly. "Yeah, yeah!" Letting him up, she raises a pointer finger, a suddenly stern expression on her face. "But you'd better keep to that or else, you hear me?"

Even as he raises his hands in his own defense (he doesn't have a death wish, after all), he nods firmly, resolve overtaking him. "Don't worry, I will! I promise!"

Relenting, Ino lets out a cleansing exhale. "Good." Looking at him a little more softly, she tells him, "I already know about your Sasuke decision through Sakura, so you don't have to explain anything about it to me, okay?" Tapping under his chin with two gently-curled fingers in a 'chin up' gesture, she melts further. "For the record, I think it's the right choice, without a doubt. Chasing Sasuke was…it was never healthy for you. You've always deserved better. You still do. So when Sakura told me, I was so relieved and happy and proud. I still am."

Naruto was waiting for her answer on bated breath, and now it's his turn to breathe a sigh of relief. Granny Tsunade already told him Ino knew the other day, but still. He's just glad she's not upset. That's one fewer friend he has to tell, at least. Not that he wants to shirk that responsibility, it's just…it's a little weight off his shoulders, that's all. A little less weight on his heart, too. Shikamaru can see the lighter air about him already, and he's grateful. Naruto smiles softly. "Thanks, Ino. I really appreciate that. I'm really happy you're okay with what I decided, too."

Ino winks and flashes an A-okay sign. "More than okay. I know how you are about promises, too, so I know I can trust you at your word." Leaning forward, she kisses his cheek. "Great job, Naruto!"

Naruto turns bright red instantly and has to look away for fear of turning into a puddle of goo. "Y-you're welcome…!"

Shikamaru barely contains his laughter behind his hand, while Sakura has no such reservations, throwing her head back to laugh out loud, and Shikamaru soon loses his battle to join her. Even Sai is quietly chuckling, and a lightly-blushing Ino soon follows. All of it just makes Naruto turn even redder, if that's possible.

Once everyone's done poking fun, Ino remembers what they brought with them and waves Sakura over. They each hold up their chosen flowers. "These are for you, Naruto! Since we were coming by already, we figured we should bring you something to keep your spirits up!"

Naruto's eyes light up. "Oh, wow! Thanks so much, you guys!" He takes both bunches in his hands to get a better look and is practically buzzing with excitement. "These are just as beautiful as the last ones! I love them! I know I already said thank you, but I mean it! You're the best!"

Ino can't help but laugh fondly, Shikamaru and Sakura finding it just as sweet and adorable. He really is so cute… Sai, meanwhile, is trying to figure out why his relationships book only mentioned girls getting flowers when, apparently, boys really like them, too. Is his book secretly sexist, perhaps? Maybe he should find a different one…

Ino waves a hand. "Don't mention it! It's the least we can do!" She means that, too, more than he knows. She wishes she could do more, but she doesn't think her medical ninjutsu would do too much good. She's decent at it, sure, enough to help on the battlefield, but nowhere near Sakura or Lady Tsunade's level. Taking the flowers from him gently, she replaces the dying bouquet Sakura gave him for her days ago with the new bunches, making them look presentable while Sakura makes her way over.

She's been quiet to let Ino get her time in, but she's been wanting to check on him, too. She blushes slightly when she remembers waking up next to him the other day, her face pressed against his chest and his arm around her. She smiles shyly. "H-hey, Naruto! You're looking better today!" It's true. He looks a lot more like himself, more lively and full of life, than he did before Gaara and his siblings' visit. She's relieved. He looked so…despondent the other night… Her eyes are drawn to his right arm, and her smile grows. "Oh, good! Lady Tsunade told me you got your binding-cast off! I'm so glad!"

Naruto nods and grins toothily, rotating his shoulder to show her he can move it just fine. "Yep! It feels great! Granny sure is amazing!" Then, because he's him and she should have known he was going to turn things around on her, he takes her in, too, and asks softly, trying to give her the illusion of privacy (even though the others already know how she was until a few days ago), "What about you, Sakura? How've you been? Okay?"

Breathing a laugh at her ridiculous teammate, she nods. "Much better, thank you. Sleeping, especially. Ever since I slept here with you guys, nights are a lot more peaceful. Some nightmares still come," and part of her thinks they always might; she knows Kakashi-sensei still has nightmares, after all, "but a lot less frequently. Mom and Dad are really happy and relieved, too."

She doesn't mention her lack of appetite, Shikamaru notices, but she definitely looks better, more color to her cheeks, lighter and smaller bags under her eyes, and her cheeks are already a little less sunken in, so logic tells him that's better, too. Good. He knows Naruto would have worried about that. He's sure he's noticed with how observant he is when it comes to his friends, but just in case, he'll run it by him later.

Sakura takes a cleansing breath, and her expression falls tender, if a touch regretful, too. "Honestly, I feel…better than I have in a long time. Years, maybe. Maybe since…even before Sasuke left the village." Naruto's eyes widen. He'd ask what she means, but he figures she's about to explain. She moves a hand to her chest. "I didn't realize it until the other night, but…there's been a hollowness in me for a long time, looking to be filled. I think a part of me thought romance was what I was missing." She laughs at herself. "Not that I really knew anything about it at twelve, but still…"

Cheeks coloring some, she smiles over at Naruto again. "But after sleeping next to you the other night…I think I finally realized I'm looking for more than that. A purpose bigger than just being Sasuke's girlfriend." She grimaces. It sounds so superficial and shallow now, even to her own ears. "I'm not quite sure what it is yet – there's so much I want to do and so many people I want to help and save, and I still want to continue cultivating my skills, too – but I can feel it waiting for me. It's so big, I can't even see it yet." Feeling more sure of herself than she has in what feels like forever, her smile turns bright. "Honestly? I'm excited!"

Naruto grins right back. "That's awesome, Sakura! I'm really happy for you!"

She blushes a bit. "T-thanks, Naruto." She softens. And once she does realize whatever purpose she finds…she knows she'll have Naruto to thank for it. He's the one who woke her up. If it weren't for him… Well, she's grateful. She's not sure he'll ever understand how much. "Me, too."

"Sounds like you came to a pretty big realization," Shikamaru comments. He glances at Naruto, and Sakura doesn't miss the way his gaze goes soft. He can relate, most definitely. "I'm happy for you, too."

She beams. "Thanks, Shikamaru!"

"Well, if you wanted to start off on the right foot, Sakura, you sure aced it!" Ino says, and Sakura raises an eyebrow. Ino points at her while she sits back down at Naruto's side, flowers perfectly arranged in the vase on the nightstand. "The only reason I got to come see you today is because Sakura stopped by our shop. When my Dad overheard you were awake, he took over the rest of my shift for me."

Naruto's eyes widen, and he blinks. "Wait, your Dad? You mean Mr. Inoichi, right?" He tries to think back. "Blond hair that's darker than yours," he motions down his back, "in a really long ponytail?"

Ino barks a laugh. "He would die if he heard you call him that!" She snorts at the very idea of his face. Shikamaru also chuckles, having known Inoichi since before he could walk. "But yes, that's him!" Her eyes go far away for a moment as she remembers something, voice going soft and sacred. "He's always liked you, you know."

Naruto's eyes grow to the size of saucers. "W-wait, what? He has? But…" he combs through his memory again, scratching his head, "…I can't think of a time we've even had a conversation. We've only been in the same room together, like, once or twice, I think." He looks at Ino like a lost kid, tilting his head. "So…how could he?"

Ino waits a few seconds to make sure he's serious. When she sees he is, she melts a little more, her expression a bit sad, too. He really is so very unaware of the effect he has on people… She reaches out to poke the star of his face gently. "You dummy…" He stares. Her voice is so warm… "You don't have to meet someone for them to know your heart." She pokes Naruto's own heart twice for good measure. "My Dad's been around a long time, he's one of the best shinobi in this village, and he's been able to watch you grow in ways I haven't. So if he says he likes you, then he does. Just trust him, okay?"

He rubs his chest where she poked him thoughtfully. "Yeah, okay… I get that part, I guess, but…I still don't understand why…"

Sighing a bit, she thinks back to what she remembered before. "Well…for instance, when I was little and we were in the Academy together," she looks away, ashamed, "I'd…complain about you to my parents a lot. I'd come home and say things like, 'Naruto pranked the teacher and disrupted class again!' or 'Naruto's so obnoxious! I can't stand him!'" She wilts at the memories, looking back at Naruto apologetically. "Sorry…"

But instead of being offended or upset, Naruto just chuckles with a wide, toothy grin. "Don't be!" He links his fingers behind his head. "It's not like I exactly made it easy for you guys to like me back then!"

Ino's gaze flicks to Shikamaru (always the exception with Naruto, it seems), and she sighs. "I guess… You had your reasons, though…" He shrugs, and she presses, "As long as you're not mad or hurt…"

His smile just widens. "No way!" He makes the mark of an 'x' over his heart. "Promise! No hard feelings!"

She breathes a heavy sigh of relief. "Thank goodness…! Thanks, Naruto." Clearing her throat, she goes on. "A-anyway, my Dad always stood up for you. He couldn't get specific, for obvious reasons, but he did his best. He told me to try to see it from your point of view, that it was the only way for you to get attention from anyone. You didn't care whether it was good or bad attention as long as they were acknowledging you." She shrugs lightly. "It didn't make sense to me then. I thought, even if you didn't have parents, you must have someone to care for you who should be teaching you how to behave, you know? It didn't really occur to me that you'd be all alone…"

She still kicks herself for that all the time, mostly every time she sees Naruto do something a parent usually teaches their child. Like saying the everyday please and thank you, letting an old lady have his seat at Ichiraku Ramen, or even gently reminding a child it's not okay to take things that aren't theirs. Those things seem so small and insignificant and normal to most people, and for all intents and purposes, they are, but…Naruto didn't have parents around to teach him that stuff. He didn't have anyone to teach him anything. He had to figure it out all on his own. Some things, she wonders how he figured it out at all, like reading and writing. They don't teach that stuff at the Academy… Honestly, she wants to ask him, at least someday, but for now, she lets it rest. It's not the right time.

"A-anyway…" her gaze drifts back to Naruto, soft as a clear blue sky, "…I didn't understand anything back then, but I do now, and I'm really happy I do." She beams. "Otherwise, I wouldn't know how amazing you are!"

Naruto flushes brightly and stares. He can't help it. This is news to him. He's always thought Ino was really cool, minus the Sasuke rivalry with Sakura, but that was years ago and she's grown past that, grown up, and in his opinion, she's so much better for it in a lot of ways. That's exactly what he's trying to do, too.

Looking away, he smiles shyly. "I-I don't know if I'd call me 'amazing' or anything like that..." He glances back at her. "If anything, I've always thought you were the cool one!"

It's Ino's turn to blush. "M-me? Really?"

Naruto nods. "Uh-huh. You're really pretty and popular, your jutsu are so cool, you're incredible with flowers and plants, you have to be really smart to learn your jutsu and all that flower stuff, and you're really nice, too! You're like…" he tilts his head, "…what do they call it…?" He grins. "The 'whole package' or somethin'?"

Ino's blush turns fierce while Sakura laughs. Shikamaru, also chuckling, takes mercy on a confused Naruto and Sai. "That turn of phrase is usually reserved for dating purposes, just so you're aware."

Naruto's eyes widen, and his blush comes back full force, waving his hands in front of him. "I-I didn't mean it like that, I swear!" Then, realizing how that might sound, he stiffens. "Uh—! Not that I—I mean—!" He facepalms and scrubs his hand down his face. "You know what I mean, right?"

Ino laughs, the last of her blush fading. She waves off his concern. "Y-yeah, don't worry, I get it." All the same, she's still so flattered, and she smiles at him warmly. "Thanks, Naruto. You're sweet!"

Naruto sighs in relief and grins. "Of course!"

Ino then remembers she and Sakura weren't the first ones here and sheepishly turns to Sai. "Sorry, Sai. We kinda hijacked your time with Naruto, didn't we?"

Sai blinks and tilts his head. "Hmm?" Then, understanding what she means, he chuckles and smiles. "Oh, no, don't worry. I like learning about everyone. I didn't get to grow up with all of you, so I find all of this very interesting. I don't mind at all."

Ino perks up. "Oh, good! Glad to hear it!" She winks. "If you have any questions, just ask! We'll tell ya anything you wanna know!"

Sai hums thoughtfully, curling his fingers at his chin. "Well, in that case…" He reaches into one of the pouches on his belt to produce several different colors of nail polish. Shikamaru wonders how he stashed so many in that small pack. Sai just grins. "I've read that painting friends' nails while making conversation is a great way to bond! I've been practicing my nail art recently for such an opportunity!"

Sakura zeroes in on the pink one. "It's the perfect shade to match my hair!"

Ino claims the purple. "And my outfit!"

Shikamaru's eyebrow twitches. "I think that's more sleepovers you're thinking of, Sai…namely girl sleepovers…" And based on his expression with the flowers earlier… "Are you sure you got the right relationships book, man?" He smirks and chuckles teasingly. "Maybe you picked up one of Master Jiraiya's books by mistake…"

Naruto laughs quietly, the ache in his chest fond. "Nah, that's not one of Pervy Sage's." He goes soft. "He used to make me read his manuscripts when we were on the road, and there wasn't anything like that in there." He breathes another laugh, softer and full of nostaglia. "That would have been enjoyable, at least." He means no offense, of course. Aside from Pervy Sage's first novel, Tales of a Gutsy Ninja, his namesake, his other books just aren't his thing. Pervy Sage would understand, no matter how much he feigned hurt or teased otherwise.

"We used to paint each other's nails at sleepovers all the time when we were kids!" Sakura gushes. "Remember, Ino?"

"How could I forget?" Ino gazes down at the purple polish almost reverently, like it contains all of her childhood memories. "It's been forever!"

Shikamaru sighs. Clearly, he's getting nowhere. He looks to Naruto for help, but does a double-take when he sees him staring at all the colors with his eyes shining like that. Oh, boy… Well, there goes his last hope. He gives in without a fight and nudges Naruto's shoulder. His friend snaps out of his daze to look at him, and Shikamaru nods toward Sai. "Go on an' ask 'im," he encourages quietly. "I'm sure he'd love to do yours, too."

Naruto flushes at having been caught, but he just smiles shyly. "I'll, uh…I'll wait and see what he does with the girls first." He rubs the back of his neck. "Then we'll see if he's up to doin' me, too."

Shikamaru shrugs and sits back. "All right. Whatever you say."

He starts with Sakura first, at Ino's behest. "She's the reason I got to come, so it's only fair."

After making sure she's certain, Sai brings out black polish and what Sakura swears is the lightest shade of pink possible, alongside the pink she already chose. Raising an eyebrow, she asks, "What are those for, Sai?"

Sai's happy grin just grows. "You'll see," he sing-songs. He's always wanted to try this! "I really think you'll like this." He starts unscrewing the light pink bottle. "If not, I'll do it over however you want. But," he raises his index finger, the other fingers and thumb holding the brush-cap, "no peeking. Deal?"

Sakura is surprised at his playfulness, but she trusts that Sai knows what he's doing. Plus, he's right. It will be more fun this way. She smiles. "Deal!"

She closes her eyes, and he sets to work. He's pretty fast and efficient for not doing this long, but Shikamaru figures he's just got a knack for art in general. He's never been the artsy type himself – the closest he gets is drawing out battle plans or, when they were kids, making shadow animals for Choji – but he can still appreciate Sai's immense talent for it. And if he can bring it to his friends in a non-combat fashion? He thinks that's a step in the right direction for him. He could use more hobbies that aren't combat-related.

While he paints, he asks questions about what growing up with everyone was like, and they're all more than happy to fill him in. Naruto's pranks are a fun subject. Shikamaru knows more about those than most.

Once he's done about seven minutes later, he announces, "Finished!" Opening her eyes, he smiles pretty brightly for him and offers something of an A-okay sign with the hand still holding the brush-cap, his other hand open, too.

Taking that as her cue to look, she gasps and beams. "Oh, Sai, they're so pretty!"

Ino peeks over her shoulder, and her reaction is much the same. "Oh, wow! They really are adorable!" She looks over at Sai. "You're really good, Sai!"

Sai blinks and then blushes at the praise, rubbing the back of his neck with a shy, overjoyed smile. "I-I just like art, that's all…but thank you!" He looks back at Sakura. "I'm very happy you like them!"

"Hey, I wanna see!" Naruto calls.

Sakura turns, sheepish upon remembering. "Oh! Sorry, Naruto! See? Aren't they amazing?"

Naruto squints for a moment, and then he lights up like the morning sun, a delighted laugh escaping. "Are those cherry blossom trees? That's so cool!" His eyes slide to his artsy teammate. "You really are incredible, Sai!"

Sai turns even redder now, but he's as happy as can be. "Thank you very much! I'm so glad you think so!"

Driven by his own rabid curiosity, Shikamaru looks over, too. His eyes widen. "Wow… That is pretty impressive, Sai."

Ino raises her hand eagerly. "Ooh! Me next, please! Me next!"

Sai's eyes widen at her enthusiasm, and he lets out an amused chuckle. "Yes, of course! You next, Miss Yamanaka!"

Ino's heart skips at the playful nickname, and she finds she likes the sound of his laugh quite a lot. She hopes she can make him laugh more often. "S-should I close my eyes, too?"

Sai nods. "If you don't mind." He winks. "After all, there's no fun in surprises if they're spoiled, right?"

Ino grins and laughs herself, excitement filling her. "Right!"

He starts with the lightest shade of purple at his disposal, then goes to work on the rest with light green and Ino's chosen purple. He's a touch more detailed with hers, so it takes about ten minutes, but they pass the time by answering more of Sai's questions and telling more hilarious stories.

When he tells her he's done, she's too excited to wait for the okay. She looks down immediately.

She brightens like flower petals in morning rays, and it does something to Sai's heart he can't explain.

Each nail has a different kind of purple flower. No two are the same. She squeals happily, and she swears, if he were comfortable with it, she'd hug him right now! "Oh, Sai, they're beautiful! Thank you so much!" She takes another scan of her fingers. "I didn't know you knew so many different kinds of flowers!" She swears she's learning more about him all the time!

His cheeks color, and he looks to the side shyly, scratching his cheek. "A-actually, just in case an opportunity like this ever came up, I figured I should know what my comrades liked, so…I-I compiled idea lists for virtually everyone I work with." He looks back at her, smile gentle. "For yours, I researched purple flowers. I figured that was my best bet."

She beams. "Well, you were right! Thank you so much!"

Shikamaru laughs. "You mind showin' Naruto, too, Ino?" He jerks a thumb his way, smirking adoringly. "I think he's gonna combust with excitement over here."

"Oh, sure! Sorry!"

Ino shows him, and his eyes widen and shine even more than before. "Now that's just unfair!" he comments, grinning with immense pride as he rubs the bridge of his nose. "Why do I get all the super cool teammates?"

Sakura smiles proudly, while Shikamaru huff-laughs and smirks and Ino chuckles. It's so cute and awe-inspiring, how much he loves them (how much they love him, too). It takes Sai a moment to understand that it's a compliment, but when he does, he smiles even more than before, a lot for him. There's a happy pink staining his cheeks. "T-thank you very much, Naruto!"

Naruto offers a thumbs up. "No problem! It's the truth, after all!"

Putting away the supplies he's used, Sai looks between the two boys and asks, holding up a few colors he thinks they'd like, "Would either of you like me to paint your nails, too?"

Shikamaru holds up his hands. "No, thanks. Not really my thing."

Naruto, on the other hand, is practically glowing with stars in his eyes. Hell, Shikamaru's pretty sure he sees hopeful tears. "I've never had my nails painted before…!" he says softly, so very wistfully.

Sakura and Ino's mouths drop open. "Wait, for real? Never?" Normally, they wouldn't question it, but he seems so excited, they're sure he would've been the same way as a kid.

Naruto shrugs. "Well, yeah. I mean," he rubs the back of his head, grinning sheepishly, "I've never been to a sleepover either, so…"

The girls wince. Right… For a second, they forgot. Shikamaru, however, just smirks and ruffles his hair, making him laugh. "Well, we'll just have to fix that once you're out of here, won't we? We'll invite all the guys over," he winks Sakura and Ino's way, "the girls, too, if they're okay with that."

Both girls beam and discreetly flash thumbs up. They're on it! Just leave it to them! They're sure the others will be on board, so they'll make sure it's the sleepover to end all sleepovers!

Naruto looks at him like he's hung the damn stars in the sky, the moon besides. "Really? You mean it, Shikamaru?"

Shikamaru's smirk just widens, a soft edge to it. "Of course I mean it. You know I wouldn't say it if I didn't."

Somehow, he's not surprised at all when Naruto lunges forward to hug him tightly. Shikamaru gathers him close in turn, closing his eyes and burying his face in the crook between his shoulder and neck. He wishes he could give him everything he missed out on unfairly as a kid, but gestures like this will have to do. He'll do his best to make sure they're the best, just like Naruto deserves. Witnessing this makes their friends feel warm and soft as well. They really are so good for each other… "Thank you, Shikamaru…" he whispers.

Shikamaru breathes a tender laugh. "Any time."

They separate, and it's at that moment a newcomer flashes into the room. "I thought this might be a good time to check on my favorite knuckleheaded student," he glances around, "but it seems I've interrupted a little party instead. My bad!"

Naruto beams excitedly. "Kakashi-sensei!"

Sakura is next to greet him, bowing her head politely. "Good afternoon, sensei!"

Sai stands a little straighter, but doesn't bother to hide his amusement for once as he holds up this afternoon's weapon of choice. "Hello, sensei."

Ino and Shikamaru greet him, too, and Kakashi's smile grows. "Afternoon, kids! Now, what's this I hear about a sleepover? And…" he sniffs the air, "…is that nail polish I smell?"

The girls gleefully show him their nails. "Uh-huh! Look, sensei! Sai painted them! Isn't he great?"

Kakashi leans in to study them. "Ooh...! Those are very nice!" He gives Sai a thumbs up. "Good work, Sai!"

Sai grins and blushes at the praise. "T-thank you, sensei." Shifting his colors around in thought, he nods his head toward his teammate. "I was just about to paint Naruto's, but I could do yours afterward, if you'd like!"

Raising his hands, Kakashi gives a nervous laugh. "N-no, thank you. I appreciate the offer, but I feel like it'll clash with my image…"

Shikamaru snickers, nudging Naruto playfully. "Yeah, 'cause some of us have reputations to uphold."

Naruto pshaws. "Reputation, schmeputation!" He grins like a kid in a candy store, eyes lighting up again. "I want cool nails, too!"

His sensei and friends laugh (honestly, that's so like him), and once his eyes are closed, Sai sets to work. This time, Sai gets to hear about the more elaborate pranks Naruto pulled. Everyone laughs, Sai the hardest of them all (Naruto's heart thrills at that!), though he's careful not to mess up his work.

His calloused hands hold Naruto's so gently, almost like he considers them, him, something precious, Naruto can't help but notice. It doesn't escape Shikamaru's keen eyes either, more so the confusion it leaves on Naruto's face. His heart pangs in his chest, the love he has for this ridiculous ball of sunshine overflowing. Someday, Naruto… Someday, he swears they'll make you see just how precious you are to all of them…

Sai's chosen designs for Naruto are more elaborate, per se, more colors and more detailed, so they take longer, but about fifteen minutes later, Naruto can't wait to open his eyes.

He's not at all disappointed.

"Whoa…!" Naruto exclaims instantly, stars in his wide eyes. He practically cackles with glee. "Holy crap, Sai, these are perfect!" He looks over at him, happy, touched tears stinging his eyes. "Thank you so much!"

The others all crowd around to see, and they're equally impressed, even Shikamaru and Kakashi. On his nails, one symbol for each, are Rasengans, bowls of ramen, the Uzumaki clan symbol, two of his Toad Summons (Gamakichi on one, Gamabunta on the other), and the Naruto ramen toppings.

Sai is a bit thrown to have caused such a strong reaction, but he's guessing some of it has to do with his past and maybe his memories of Master Jiraiya. The smile he gives him is softer than the others, something more in it the others can't quite place, but Naruto understands instantly. Seeing this, Sai just melts a touch more. "Of course. You're more than welcome."

Turning to Shikamaru, Sai offers his polish again. "Are you sure you don't want to join in?" he asks, amusement coloring his tone. "I've thought of fun things for everyone!"

Shikamaru is about to politely decline again – he's just happy to see Naruto happy, that's all he ever wanted out of this – but he stops when he sees Naruto still staring at his nails like they're the most beautiful things he's ever seen. His helpless smile comes without his say, a like laugh escaping, too, and then he turns back to Sai with a tiny sigh. "All right, fine…but nothin' fancy. Just paint 'em black, okay?"

Naruto turns to him with a thrilled gasp, and Shikamaru just softens further. "Now we'll match. Kinda. In a way." He shrugs. It's the principle of the thing. "Happy?"

Naruto smiles for all it's worth (everything to those who love him). "'Course!" he chirps, laughing. "But I'm always happy when I'm with you!"

Shikamaru blinks, startled at the sudden admission, a light blush crossing his face. He knows it's true, obviously, but still… Knowing something in his heart and having it confirmed out loud are two very different things. Given a moment to gather himself, he reaches over to bump his fist with Naruto's just like this morning, winking for good measure. "Right back at ya."

Shikamaru's nails are so simple that it only takes a minute or two to do his, and then all the teens turn to Kakashi with mischief in their eyes. "Come on, Kakashi-sensei," Naruto rallies in a bit of a sing-song, he and the girls showing him their nails. "We all did it! Now it's your turn!"

Kakashi knows they mean well, but… He casts a weary glance at Shikamaru for help, but he just smirks conspiratorially and parades his own black nails. Naruto is happy as can be at his side, and...oh, boy… Ultimately, that's what does it. He has a feeling there are going to be a lot of times he'll be unable to say no to his sensei's son's overjoyed face from here on out… Oh, well. If Shikamaru can do it for Naruto, he can, too. Besides, there are worse things. Luckily, he's confident Naruto is mature enough now that he won't take advantage, if he even realizes he has this power over him eventually…

He raises his hands, looking and sounding (playfully) defeated. "All right, all right… You win. But just black like Shikamaru, please. The last thing I need is Pakkun seeing his face on my nails and getting a big head." Not that he'd ever tell his number one Ninja Hound that. He just likes to tease him.

Naruto cheers, the girls, too. "Woohoo! All right!"

"You go, Kakashi-sensei!"

The rest of the day is spent together, talking and laughing and having fun. It's one of the best days Naruto has ever had.

Which, of course, automatically makes it one of Shikamaru's, too.

A/N: Happy birthday to Shikamaru! Woohoo! I find it hilariously cool that I just happen to post on his birthday!

I love Inoichi! He's my favorite (living) parent after Shikaku! I hope I did him justice here! We'll see more of him later once Karin comes in! ;)

Also, I threw in a few blink-and-miss potential Sai/Ino hints (it's the only canon couple I, personally, accept, lol), but it's background AF and won't have any impact on the story, so if you don't ship them or just want to view them as a brOTP or whatever, hey, all power to you! Doesn't matter to me! I was just trying to develop their friendship, and that's what came out! lol. Hope that's okay with everyone!

The next chapter will feature a few Teams who've been away, so hope you're looking forward to that!

Thanks so much for reading!