Kasi blinked, pulling himself out of his thoughts. Where is Kakashi Hatake? The boy had been his brother's student. Since waking, Kasi hadn't sensed his chakra anywhere in the village. He must be out on a mission. Kasi made a mental note to find him later.
Shaking off the thought, he decided some things could wait. First—let's cook something for Naruto. That was more important right now.
He made his way to Naruto's apartment but paused when he saw the group of kids in the playground.
Shikamaru lay back on the grass, arms behind his head, lazily. Choji munched on snacks. Kiba ran around with Akamaru, both enjoying the evening sun. Hinata stayed close to Naruto, shy but smiling quietly, while Ino had joined the group as well. Naruto himself bounced around, full of energy.
In his excitement, Naruto didn't notice Sakura walking toward them. He collided with her by accident, bumping hard. Sakura's eyes widened.
"Ow! Naruto! Are you trying to break my head or what?" she scolded, punching the top of his head hard.
Naruto rubbed his head, wincing. "I-I didn't mean to, Sakura!"
"I told you, you idiot!" Sakura shouted, her face red with anger. "Always so reckless! Don't ever get in my way again!"
Hinata's eyes showed concern, tinged with anger.
Shikamaru frowned, lips pressed into a thin line. Choji looked down at his snack, chewing slowly, annoyed. Ino's smile faltered, her expression a little unnatural, unsure how to react.
Sakura's fists clenched, still glaring at Naruto, but she paused, glancing at the group. The reactions of her friends made her hesitate from hitting again.
Hinata stayed close, voice steady. "Please… don't. He already apologized."
Sakura huffed, finally lowering her fists, though her cheeks remained red. "Hmph… don't let it happen again, Naruto."
Naruto's eyes lit up, still full of energy. "I won't! I promise!"
Kasi watched quietly, a faint smile touching his lips. It seems yesterday's events made them closer. Naruto and Hinata are less shy around each other than I remember…
He frowned slightly, thinking of Sakura. Though I don't like her hitting him…
Kasi's gaze softened, eyes narrowing thoughtfully. Looks like I have to teach Naruto to stand up for himself