#sunflowerstalks

Promised

*

**

Temari took a deep breath waiting for her fiancé.

It was still such a foreign concept. She should have been anticipating this day. Arranged marriages were just what their family had done for generations. Marriages were business arrangements solely done to garner more wealth and influence. It had been the case for her parents. The respect and love had come eventually. Still, as much as she knew that it was going to happen she wasn’t prepared for reality. 

After the deals were made and contracts were signed her father was strangely vague about who her betrothed was. He just assured her that he was from a good family and this was the best scenario for her and their family.  She wasn’t allowed to be a part of any of the proceedings. Her father and brothers were her representatives. Temari just accepted her fate and hoped that her family had done their best for her.  Her father was a lot of things and being a shrewd and calculated businessman was one of them. She wasn’t going to be married off to a family that wasn’t worthy of her.  In the end, whoever she did marry had to be enough in the eyes of her father and that was a tall order. 

Temari took another deep breath before sipping her tea. Her…fiancé had asked that their first meeting occur at his home without any chaperones. It was a bit unorthodox but her father had agreed and so she’d made her way from Suna to Konoha. She’d been there so many times that she could name all the roads and buildings they passed.  She pushed aside certain memories that the scenery attempted to invoke. When at one time this place had been like a second home it was now just haunting scenes from her past.  She’d avoided returning there for years now but her destiny couldn’t be put off any longer.  They drove past the city to a beautiful neighborhood with large homes and the grandest one of them all was the one they’d pulled up to.

She was quickly ushered inside and everyone that she met welcomed her kindly. Excited at her presence there. There was something oddly familiar and comforting about this place even though she was sure she’d never been there. Upon coming to the room she was asked to wait in she was surprised to see a table filled with her favorite tea and snacks. Her future husband had done his research. 

Temari tried to relax in the gorgeous room. It had a wonderful view of the gardens.  Warm and inviting it was easy to pretend she was in a different place instead of her fiancés home. Now her home. 

At least her cage would be a beautiful one. 

When she heard the door open her breath caught. The air in the room had shifted. This was it. 

He took the chair across from her to sit and silently stare. 

Temari’s eyes widened as she tried to maintain her composure.  This was a turn of events. Once Temari got her wits about she spoke,  “I can’t say I’m not surprised.”

The arrogant yet handsome grin that crossed his face sent a bolt of electricity through her. Years later he still affected her like no one else. 

“You shouldn’t be.”

He leaned forward placing his chin on steepled fingers to bring them closer together.  He seemed annoyed by the space between them.  Temari wondered if from this distance he could hear how loudly her heart was beating. 

She leaned further away from him.  “You’re right.  Given our families' shared histories I should have figured that my father would want to make our alliance stronger.  What better way than a marriage?”  

The Naras were one of the most powerful and prolific political families across the five nations.  Her family had been there from their early ascent into power.  Providing money and clout.  The Naras in turn ensured that her family had exclusive control over the production and distribution of military arms and weapons.  A marriage between their two families would only tighten the stranglehold and influence that they had in Suna, Konoha, and across the other nations. The press would have a field day once news of their engagement broke.

Shikamaru noticeably clenched and unclenched his fist. “Do you believe that this is about something as frivolous as money, power, and political influence?  I could give a fuck about all of that Temari. I have all of that. All I care about is you.”

Temari was sure her gasp of shock was audible.  It had been years since they’d seen one another face to face.  She only knew what the rest of the world did. He’d made a name for himself while expanding the Nara name and influence.  The Genius Nara.  He was known far and wide for his political skill and was on his way to being second in command for the Konoha government. How he was doing personally was only garnered through information from his mother. Also, from shamefully stalking a rarely used social media account.  It hurt that after having become so close it was nothing but silence for years. As far as she knew the person sitting across from her was a stranger.  

No, her fiancé.

Nara Shikamaru had grown up. He was finally taller than her with lean muscles encased by a well-fitting expensive suit. His hair was still in that familiar style but it suited him well. Where at one time he’d been awkward and lanky he now sat in front of her confident and handsome.  

Despite knowing very little about his current life she did know that Shikamaru was considered one of the most eligible bachelors. Handsome, rich, powerful, and from a storied family.  He would be quite the catch.   Despite his status, he was never seen with another woman. No one had ever been found to be associated with him. Women would kill for the chance to be in her position but it seemed like all he wanted was her. 

Shikamaru stared at her deeply.  Those eyes she’d known so well set on her sure and steady.  His heavy gaze left her speechless. 

“You sealed your fate that night you kissed me. From that second you were mine.”

*

**

Barbecue with Ino and Choji was the best form of comfort. They were older now and spending time all together was more challenging but they always found a way. Sitting together eating and drinking made life seem simpler. Maybe just friendships were enough. But he’d already imagined what it might be like if she was sitting right there next to him. 

“Wow Chouji, you’re pretty smitten.”  The said man grinned with a nod. 

He’d just returned home from a diplomatic mission in Kumo and was delighted to share all the details of his trip. One of which was about a fiery, red-headed kunoichi 

“Karui’s different. On the outside, she seems cold and hard to approach. She can be loud and mean but there’s a lot more to her.  She was…sweet to me. I can’t explain it.  We spent a lot of time there together and even though, in the grand scheme of things we haven’t known each other for a long time, we just get one another.”

Ino nodded. “I feel that way with Sai. We’re so different in how we act and think but when we get to it I think a lot of our values and what we think is important are the same.  He’s been everything to me since the war ended and through processing all that stuff. I’ve never felt so safe with someone.”  

They sat there in silence thinking about how much their conversations had changed over the years. Everything felt more serious now. They knew soon enough their clan responsibilities would only become more intense. Who would share that burden with them was becoming clearer.

“I know Ino and I are new to this but Shikamaru here, well he’s been getting to know Temari for years now.  Just gotta cross that bridge right buddy.”  Chouji teased his friend. 

He was thinking about his friends’ reflections on their new relationships that Chouji’s comment surprised him.  “What do you mean? We’re just friends.” 

They both rolled their eyes at him.  They’d heard this argument far too many times now. “You two aren’t just friends. The three of us are friends.  You and Temari, you’re something else entirely.”

“And what is that?” 

“Soulmates,”   Chouji told him softly. 

Shikamaru waited silently for Chouji to elaborate. 

“I don’t know. The two of you just seem inevitable. Since we were kids she’s been in your life.  You’ve gone through hell and back together. She’s just always been there with you. Sometimes I feel like she knows you even better than we do.”

“If that’s true, why is she on a date with someone else.”  They could sense the bitterness in Shikmaru’s voice. 

“Because she’s stubborn and you’re lazy.”

He couldn’t argue against Ino’s characterization of them. 

“You've never shown any interest in her so she’s probably a little scared that you’re not. She’s not going to make the first move here.”  Ino tried to explain. 

“How can you be so sure that she feels that way about me?”  He didn’t like how this conversation had evolved but he needed their help.

Ino just shrugged her shoulders ignoring her friend’s crisis. 

“It’s a hunch and just an observation. When she’s here, you’re together. She’ll seek you out. When I’ve hung out with her, her favorite thing to talk about is you. Temari doesn’t get close to people. But for some reason, a shinobi that she met as a child, who beat her during an exam, who she scolds, criticizes, and trusts is her best friend.  But that doesn’t seem like a good enough title for what you two are and how you are when you’re together.”

“That’s fine and all. but it doesn’t mean that she likes me in that way. I’m not even sure how I feel.”

“How can you not be sure?”  Ino demanded becoming annoyed at his sheer stubbornness. 

Shikamaru tried to find the words to explain.“I mean yes, we’ve been through a lot together. We hang out when she’s here. I trust her with my life. I’ll think about her a lot when she’s gone. It’s kind of annoying. If she was closer then maybe I wouldn’t think about her so much. She’s beautiful, she’s strong and resilient. She’s honest to a fault but I know in her own way that’s how she shows that she cares. It feels like it’s been so long now that I can’t imagine not having her in my life.  When I think about my future, I want her there.”

Chouji and Ino let him stew in quiet. “Well, it sounds like you have some decisions to make. You two can carry on how you have been and remain friends.  But at some point, either she or you will find someone. Where will that leave you and your relationship?

Shikamaru sat there reflecting on what they’d said. Temari was just on a first date with this guy. It didn’t mean that they were going to get married.  But the possibility did remain that it could lead down that path. And if it wasn’t this particular person who’s to say it wouldn’t be the one after him. And if she was the one to move on he knew that he’d have to live still seeing her everywhere. 

*

**

Shikamaru inevitably found himself waiting for Temari to come home. He remained hidden until he was sure that she was alone then made his presence known. If she was surprised by him being there it didn’t show. 

He couldn't help but feel a bit self-conscious. She looked gorgeous dressed in civilian clothes with her face made up. It was less pleasant when he remembered that she didn’t look this way for him. 

“Shikamaru, can I help you with something?” 

“Can we go take a walk?  Hang out for a little?”  He asked hopefully. On any normal day, they would have spent time together. After not seeing her all day he felt off-balance. 

Curiosity and concern were fueling Temari and so she agreed. It was obvious something was weighing heavily on his shoulders. He believed that he could suppress his emotions well but he couldn’t hide anything from her. 

They walked together in sync. He didn’t even have to guide her steps; she just seemed to know instinctively where to go. Was he really that obvious? Or did she just know him that well? 

They spoke with one another freely. The conversation always flowed so easily between them. This was normal and Shikamaru finally felt like he was on solid ground until they settled into their familiar place.  

It was a specific spot in the Nara forest.  A singular place where the canopy of the trees didn’t block their view of the sky. How many times had they been there together? Either for cloud watching or star gazing. Or sometimes just for no reason at all. They would just sit, comfortable and silent. Together and away from the chaos of the world. 

Shikamaru felt the question trapped in his throat.  Insecurity and worry got the better of him that he had to ask. 

“How was your…uhm date?”

Temari looked at him surprised before shifting her gaze back to the sky. “It went well. He was polite and charming. I can imagine that we’d get along.”  

“Good, I’m happy for you.”

Temari peered at him curiously. “Are you really?”

“What do you mean?”

She just shook her head. “I guess that this is to be expected. You said days ago that no matter what happened we’d always remain friends. And I’m thankful for that…”. Her thoughts trailed off and they sat there in heavy silence. 

“He asked me if I’d want to go out with him again but I wasn’t sure what to say.”  She stopped again before sighing. 

“Sorry, I must be tired, I can't think straight. I should go.”  Temari began to get up but he settled a warm hand against hers. 

“Clouds.”

“What?”  She responded confused. Why did everything go back to the clouds with him? 

“I see you in them. I try not to but you’re there.”

“Oh.”

His heart and mind were racing. “But it’s not just the clouds.  I find you in crowds and during my walks in the forests that I have to do a double-take. Before I sleep and when I dream. You’re there.  Even now under these millions of stars, it’s just you.  At first, I was confused and a little annoyed but I realized that I like that you’re constantly on my mind. That even when I’m not with you. You’re here.”  He moved their joined hands against his heart. 

Now that it was out in the open there was no stopping him. 

“When I told you that we’d always be friends I meant it but it hurt to believe that perhaps we’d only ever be friends.  I tried to hide it, wish it away, and pretend but I can’t do that anymore. Temari, it’s you. And whether you give me a Summer or a lifetime I’ll be happy for it.  Do you think maybe you’d like to be with me? That perhaps together we can be something more.”

Temari was worried that when she slipped into his arms he could feel her heart racing. Even worse when she felt him place a kiss against her head. 

His admission sat heavily in her heart. The weight behind his words and actions and what this would mean made her stomach flutter.

“So you can finally admit you like me?”  She teased him with a grin.

He stared at her in shock, but she had always been more perceptive than him.  “You knew?”  

Her hand gently ran through the strands of his hair “Not exactly, I just felt something… unusual with you.  You treat me differently, it’s nice and it made me feel special that you chose me.  I don’t even think you realized it.” 

Even though he’d been consciously trying to hide his feelings, subconsciously he’d been making it known.

She rested her head against his shoulder. Her breath fluttering against his neck made him shiver.

“I think about you all the time too. It gets so much worse and harder when I’m in Suna.  Sometimes it’s like the sand makes shapes of you and reminds me that you’re far away.”  She relished in the way his arms wrapped tighter around her. A strong reminder that he was there with her.

“Growing up the way we did in Suna my brothers and I never really had friends. I’m not even that sure when you and I became friends. But it means so much to me that I never wanted to do anything that could upset that balance. At the end of the day, I can’t stand the idea of losing you. I agreed to go out on that date because I thought it might make things less complicated between us.  That we’d remain in this neutral and safe place.  I think though that we’re meant for something beyond friendship and it’s worth taking that chance.” The smile that he adored so much crossed her lips. 

“And I think the greatest risk that I’ve ever taken was falling for my best friend.”  Temari melted when Shikamaru’s lips met hers.

Safe and warm she never wanted to be anywhere else. Shikamaru held her strong and steady against his chest. Noticing how perfectly she seemed to fit against him. He kissed her again and again. He hoped his actions said more than his words ever could as a hundred different emotions raced through him. Just friendship between them would never be enough, not after knowing how it felt to kiss her.  

He knew that everything in life had its possibility of troubles. Sure this would inevitably change their relationship and it could lead to some dark places but he also knew that there was hope and possibilities. And that there were many things in life worth fighting for. 

This was one of them.  

Shikamaru held onto Temari, taking in the moment that had been years in the making.  Unspoken promises were shared between them.  They’d remain who they were. Their relationship would just be built on the strong foundation they’d made and it would become so much greater. 

A sincere smile appeared on his face as he stared at her.  He could easily see their life and future reflected in her eyes and it was one that he’d gladly work towards. 

“So you and me?”  She asked with a grin, hope, and excitement reflected in her vibrant eyes.

He smiled softly at her before kissing her gently.   That sounded just fine to him.

“Forever.” 

*

**

This story was super inspired by the song "double take" by dhruv.  I've wanted to write something inspired by it for a while and I love the falling in love with your best friend trope. 

“I know that I didn’t.  I wanted to.”  When he didn’t respond she continued.

“Sai, you don’t have to tell me what happened during your mission. You don’t have to say anything at all but I’m here for you and it’s not just me. Your team, your friends. We’re all here for you.  You’re not alone anymore, don’t forget that.” 

He felt her sincere words resonate within him.  She was right, of course she was. But he had so many routines and habits that he still needed to break.  And relying on others was something he still needed to learn 

“Thank you, and uhm thank you for these I guess.”

“Of course.”  She felt a smile cross her face at his sincerity. 

“Hopefully I’ll see you soon.”  She waved making her exit and he watched carefully till he couldn’t see her anymore. Those precious flowers she’d given him clutched tightly against his chest. 

He placed the flowers on the table near his art supplies. Their vibrant colors brought a little life into the dark space. 

Sai had lived through trauma, violence, and war. He was familiar with the pain it brought. This particular mission had affected him like no other. Sure he had survived but he’d been left with not only physical but mental scars.  He tried to shake away the intrusive thoughts. 

He sat in front of a blank canvas, his eyes still set on the vibrant bouquet. His team, teachers, and friends had all come to see him but he’d rebuffed their attempts. Ino had gotten the closest. This was the most light that he’d felt in weeks. 

His hands automatically began to move across the white canvas filling it with bright colors. He hadn’t created anything for a while now but he felt different. As though Ino had taken the heaviness that had been sitting on his chest with her. 

Hours later he stared at the completed painting feeling a sense of accomplishment. Colors filled the cracks in his skin.  Creating again felt like being back on solid ground. And a beautiful girl with a handful of flowers was to thank for that. 

He made a decision and dialed a number. 

“Hello, I’d like to make an order for delivery.” 

~

This went on for a few weeks. Sai would order flowers and Ino would deliver them.  Sometimes they were grander arrangements, other times simple bouquets.  While she dropped off the flowers Sai remained hidden inside his house behind the door but he greeted her far more kindly.  He was willing to talk to her more each time. She’d sometimes bring him different treats. Small things she learned that he enjoyed and ones that she did.  Little by little, despite the space he wanted to make with the world, they became closer. 

Sai didn’t know if he could truly ever express how much her quick visits meant to him.  There were so very few things that brought him peace or joy, but she did.  The happiness she gave him during those small interactions was enough to get him to the next day, to strengthen and encourage him. So much so that he’d even begun to reach out to his team.  But as much as he wished for more he didn’t think that it was possible.  Ino deserved light, someone that could offer far more, but he couldn’t let her go.  So for now he’d live in this limbo.  Enjoying the light as long as he could. 

*

**

“You got a complaint yesterday.”

Ino was taken aback by the information shared with her the second she walked into the flower shop. 

“What?  From who?”

“A grumpy Shinobi who was upset that his flowers weren't delivered by a certain blonde. I don’t know who he talked to but I guess you’re the only one he’ll accept deliveries from.”  She mused, eyeing Ino with a grin.  Everyone knew that Ino was making these special deliveries.

Speaking of which, here.”  She handed her a gorgeous assortment of roses. 

“He’s expecting them.”  Ino sighed but nodded, taking the flowers in her hands. 

Still, Ino could admit that not seeing him yesterday was disappointing. As short as their interactions might have been they were still one of the most enjoyable parts of her day. They were small, imperceptible changes but she saw him opening up to her. The blinds were not closed as tightly. Some of the arrangements he’d ordered sat on the window sill. Glimmers of light seem to appear in his eyes once again. 

When she arrived at his home he surprised her by meeting her beyond the front door stomping his way over. Under the sunlight, she could see clearly a constellation of scars cut across his face. His rough hands took the heavy arrangement from her to place delicately to the side. 

“Where were you yesterday?”  He demanded, but she could see the worry in his eyes.  

“Hello to you too.  Why? Was there something wrong with the delivery?”

He nodded.  “Yes, I waited for hours and when my order finally arrived it wasn’t you.”

“Sai that’s not a reason to be upset.”

He knew that he’d overreacted but he’d been genuinely concerned.  “You said that you were going to be coming back and when you hadn’t I panicked.  I got worried about whether you were okay so I called the store.  And when they told me that you weren’t making deliveries I assumed that I had somehow upset you.” 

“Sai, you can’t assume such things. Besides, I'll let you know if I am upset.  I got pulled for a mission yesterday so I couldn’t come. I should have let you know.”  She appreciated how concerned he’d been about her but at the same time, he couldn’t just expect her to ignore her other responsibilities. 

A soft smile crossed her lips.  “You can just ask me to come by. You don’t need to keep ordering flowers.”

She noticed the slight flush that crossed his cheeks.  “I…I thought that this would be the only way that you’d continue to come see me.” He admitted looking down. 

Her heart broke for him, she knew just a little about his history but she didn’t know how deeply his scars ran.  

“I’ll be honest.”  He looked at her confused and worried as she avoided his gaze.   

“I don’t do flower deliveries. When I brought them to you that first day it was only my third time making deliveries. The other times I’ve come here was only to bring you your flowers.” 

The admission floored him. Making him feel special and chosen.  Before he could stop himself he asked the question that had been hanging over his head for weeks.

“Why do this? I’m not your teammate, before this, we hardly interacted. What have I done to deserve your kindness or attention.” 

When she tried to reach for his hand he tensed up but allowed her to take it in her gentle grasp. “Sai, you don’t have to do anything to deserve those things. Relationships aren’t transactional. I do this because I genuinely care about you, because you’re a member of the Leaf, because you’re my friend but especially because I know you’re hurt. What kind of person would I be if I didn’t try to help?  Besides, I like seeing and talking to you. I enjoy being around you.”

He looked at her, the sincerity in those sky blue eyes catching his breath. “I’d like to keep seeing you, and not just within this context. Perhaps this weekend? I’ll cook for you.”  

He knew that this was a big step. He would not only have to venture out into the village for supplies and he hadn’t had a guest in his home for a while now.  But it gave him some hope that perhaps if he was willing to make these leaps she’d accept him as broken and bruised as he was. 

“I’d like that.” 

She looked behind him, the door that he’d kept so tightly locked up burst open flooding his home in light. The scars he’d tried to hide from her and everyone so strikingly on display under the sun. When he felt her hand reach up to gently touch those marks seared across his neck he’d realized what he’d done. He was open and vulnerable but it felt okay because she was there with him. 

“I was so relieved to see you.  I didn’t think.  Getting to you was more important.”  He admitted placing a kiss against her palm.

She felt tears appear in her eyes. Relief and hope settled over both of them. 

He picked up the arrangement he’d placed to the side to hand them to her. 

“These were actually meant for you.”  He admitted and knew that he’d do anything to keep that smile on her face. 

“You know, despite working at a flower store no one has actually given me flowers before.”  Ino mused.  She had a feeling that she was destined for many more.

“I don’t know if you have other plans but perhaps you’d like to come in?”  The idea of waiting even just a few more days to see her felt maddening.  

She nodded and laced her fingers with his before making their way inside.  Healing wasn’t easy.  They both had their own demons to fight but it was possible and worth it.   Individually they were strong but together they were a force of nature. 

*

**

They knew all about that little creature that he’d bonded with during the mission in Iwagakure. Ino and Sai had considered getting him a pet to help with his grief but worried it might be too soon. 

Shikamaru moved forward towards them, kneeling in front of him.  “Your grandfather used to love walking through here too.”  

“Really?”  Inojin asked surprised but always happy to learn anything he could about his grandfather. 

“The Yamanaka jutsu can be very difficult mentally and spiritually. He always found reconnecting with nature as a way to reset.  He even had his own favorite deer. Shikadai’s grandfather would complain that he was out here more than him.”  Shikamaru remembered when his father would go out into the dense forest to check on his friend. 

“Inojin attachments and bonds are a wonderful thing. Companionship and friendship make life meaningful.  They aren’t something you ever have to hide.” Inojin smiled up at Temari, her words having a lifetime of experience behind them. 

“Did you give him a name?” 

“Aki, I found him on the first day of Fall.”  

“Well thank you Aki for taking care of Inojin here.”  

Shikamaru kindly rubbed the deer’s head.  Sure the Naras were known for their connection with these animals but he was thankful that Inojin saw their value as well.

“Let your mom and dad know, okay kid. That way they won’t worry.”  Temari guided him gently.  She could understand his draw towards the Nara forest.  She would often escape there just to have some quiet.  

Inojin nodded, grateful that he didn’t have to keep his trips a secret.  That he could tell his parents and his teammates about his friend.  He’d been wanting his parents to come join him for a while now. 

“Let Shikadai know you’re coming out here.  He’s supposed to be guarding and keeping this place secure.  Seeing as you’ve been able to come in and out undetected means he’s not doing his job.”  He laughed but hoped his friend wouldn’t be too upset. 

The trio remained out there in the fading sunlight as more deer came forward recognizing the clan heads.  Enjoying the mystery and wonder of it all.

Inojin at times was just like his father.  He struggled with certain social cues and norms.  Often finding himself confused by some customs. But he found there in the quiet of the forest, with his faithful friend, and family a feeling of home. 

Shika

Shikadai took a tentative taste before a thoughtful look crossed his face. 

“It needs something.” 

Karui took a spoonful of the broth before nodding. “You’re right. Go ask your Uncle Chouji for more tomatoes.”  

Shikadai went into motion and made his way over to where the Akimichi was prepping the ingredients.  ChoCho would often complain about her parents but Shikadai found them to be warm and welcoming.  Always genuinely happy to see him. 

“We’re gonna need more diced tomatoes.”

“You got it, kid.” 

Shikadai wasn’t sure when it happened exactly. He’d been over at the Akimichi’s one night for dinner and had been roped into helping. Despite his silent complaints, he’d actually enjoyed the cooking process.  It was almost like a science experiment. Mixing the ingredients to get the perfect reaction. After that day he’d come by ever so often to learn more techniques and to try out various recipes. Who better than an Akimichi to teach him to cook? ChoCho loved it when he came over, as he often made enough for her to try a new dish.  

Today he had something special planned. His uncles had sent him a recipe for his mom's favorite dish from Suna. He wanted it to be a surprise so he’d made his way to the Akimichi kitchen. 

“My dad taught your grandfather how to cook,”  Chouji told him with a grin. Shikadai looked up, never having heard this story. 

“When they were younger your grandmother was just as good of a cook as she is now.  Uncle Shikaku wanted to impress her.  It was a complete failure.  Apparently, he managed to burn through not only the food but multiple pots and pans.  He was banned from cooking on Akimichi lands for a while.  After my dad forgave him he gave him a few less-flammable lessons.  It wasn’t too helpful but there was some improvement.  Your father is no better.  For being geniuses they sure are useless in the kitchen.  You might be the only hope for the Nara line.”

Shikadai smiled at the thought.  His mother had mentioned something similar to him when he’d helped her a few times.  It wasn’t a skill that Naras were known for nor would it be one that he advertised.  Still, it was a useful ability and oftentimes a needed distraction. 

Karui yelled a few additional items they needed and he stood next to Chouji prepping the additional items.  

They added the required ingredients, checking the flavor as he went along.  The two Akimichis watched him with a smile at his attention and precision.  Temari’s look of pure determination on his face and his movements were all Shikamaru.  Like the dish he made, he was a perfect mix. 

“I’ve got to hand it to you kid.  You’re a natural.  You’re always welcomed in my kitchen.”  Karui praised him after tasting the completed recipe. 

She affectionately ruffled his hair. “Your mom is going to love it.” 

Shikadai recalled those precious times together around a table with warm food between them.  

A home-cooked meal was the perfect reminder of home.

Cho

“Thanks again for coming by!  Your wife is going to love the flowers.”  ChoCho yelled out to the customer.

She then worked to spray down the counter then watered a few of the plants.  It was a quiet day at the store but she loved it nonetheless.  The Yamanaka flower shop was one of her favorite places in the village. She was getting older.  Their team missions were more complicated and layered. For her. working at a place that was so normal was a needed reprieve.

It started a few weeks ago.  Inojin had begged her to cover his shift while his parents were off on a mission.  She agreed only after he offered her a king’s ransom in snacks and a no-questions-asked favor to be cashed in the future.  After getting a quick training session and learning the ropes she thoroughly enjoyed her time there.  She was in the company of flowers and got to meet and interact with people all over the village.  It was a natural fit.  From then on ever so often Inojin would ask her to fill in.  She’d whine and complain which increased Inojin’s offerings but she’d ultimately agree.

“ChoCho!”  She smiled brightly seeing the Yamanakas walk in.  They knew that she was there for the afternoon but assured her they’d be back as early as possible.  

ChoCho idolized Ino.  The  Yamanaka Clan head was strong, wise, and beautiful.  ChoCho loved her mom but she was still an authority figure.  Ino was her cool Aunt.  Since she could remember the blonde had assured her that she’d be a willing confidant and support.  There were a few times that she elicited her help and advice.  

“We appreciate you coming by to help us,”  Sai thanked her with a soft smile.  He wasn’t a man of many words but he was always kind and welcoming towards her.  His smile reminded her very much of her teammate.

“I love it here.  I get to see so many people and hear a lot of different stories.”  Her favorites were always of nervous individuals hoping to find that perfect bouquet to impress a special someone. 

“It’s a pretty special place.  Your grandfather still buys your grandmother flowers every month on the 7th.  When I'd come here to help my dad I always loved seeing him come in.  I'd help him pick out the flowers to give her.”  ChoCho fondly thought about the blossoms that would consistently fill their home.  She couldn’t help but love how connected their families were.  

 Sai helped her move a few buckets of flowers to refill the shelves.  “When your father started dating your mom he didn’t know what her favorite flower was so he ended up just buying all of them,”  Sai recalled that day.  

He’d come to spend time with Ino when the Akimichi had come in a panicked state.  Their team had argued back and forth about the best arrangement of flowers until Shikamaru convinced Chouji to just buy them all and figure out Karui’s favorite later. 

ChoCho grinned surprised by the sweet story.  Surprised that the old man had some moves back in the day.  

Her father had come by earlier to her embarrassment but they had worked together to arrange a beautiful bouquet for her mother. She often wondered at their relationship but their love was something undeniable.  ChoChohoped that her teammates took notes about how to treat those they loved. 

ChoCho fell into step with the Yamanakas helping to clean up before she was set to leave.  And of course, she was on her way to see her team.  

“You’re always welcome here, you know that right?”  Ino assured her. She had a special bond with the Akimichi.  It wasn’t always easy being the female in their trio.

Surrounded by a melody of flowers and the warmth of family, this was just like a second home.  

“I know.”

* **

The 17th generation of InoShikaCho sat together in the cramped booth talking about everything and nothing all at once.  A similar scene of love and familiarity having occurred many times in the past.  

At times the pressure to uphold their family’s legacy could be suffocating.  Certain heavy expectations and hopes were placed on their shoulders.  But they knew at the end of the day they were luckier than most.  They were teammates and best friends.  Not just by circumstances but by choice.  No matter what happened in this life, because of that bond they’d always have a home. 

*

**

Did you see what I was trying to do here?  I love the customs that each family has but I like to see them interacting with each other.

Life got pretty hectic so writing needed to take a back seat.  I’m thankful that I was able to write what little I could.  I hope to be posting more regularly soon.  Thanks for your support and good vibes.