Naruto : The ultimate Troublemaker

Mikoto tried to protest, shaking her head slightly.

"But... there's nothing between us, Hokage-sama! You're mistaken! It's just a maternal affection."

Hiruzen gave her an indulgent smile.

"Perhaps. But, as I said, it's not just about how you feel. It's also about the impact it could have on Shikai. He's still young, and Fugaku can be quite bitter. If you appreciate him at least as a mother, as you say... Then..."

A tense silence filled the room.

"I understand, Hokage-sama," she finally said, her voice barely audible.

Hiruzen looked at her for a long moment before relaxing slightly.

"And, as I said, this conversation will remain between us. But remember, I'm watching over Shikai. If I ever perceive an intention that could harm him, I won't hesitate to take action."

Hiruzen's words resonated like a clear warning. Mikoto, though disheartened, nodded, knowing she had to be careful.

"Thank you for your honesty, Hokage-sama," she said, rising to her feet, ready to leave.

Hiruzen acknowledged her with a nod.

"Take care of yourself, Mikoto-san. And... think about what you truly want. I'm sure you want to be loyal to your husband."

As Mikoto left the office, her heart pounded wildly. Hiruzen's words continued to echo in her mind.

'Shikai... What does he really think? Have I been too careless? Too close? Or have I simply underestimated this situation?'

She clenched her fists, one thing was clear: she needed to clarify her feelings and face this situation before it became uncontrollable.

...

Sunlight filtered through the shutters, painting golden stripes on the floor of the bedroom. Shikai rose slowly, his sore muscles reminding him of the previous night's events. He glanced over his shoulder, his indifferent face softening as he saw Izumi, still deeply asleep. Her black hair was spread across the pillow, and her face was peaceful, but he could see the traces of fatigue on her features. He had been incredibly gentle with her, ensuring her first time was memorable, much less violent than with Yogito. But ultimately, he felt it was impossible to have a professional attachment. Only anger, hatred, or perhaps a sense of obligation towards his mother and Minato, but when it came to feelings like love or guilt... He was far too hardened for such things.

Shikai carefully got out of bed, making as little noise as possible to avoid waking her. He picked up his scattered clothes from the floor and headed towards the bathroom. The warmth of the shower water soothed his sore muscles as he lathered and rinsed himself. He ran his fingers through his black hair, tugging at the rebellious ends. His hand lingered on his neck for a few seconds, then he shook his head, sighing.

"Old habits always want to take over."

Once clean and dressed, Shikai returned to the bedroom. Izumi was still asleep, so he carefully arranged the flowers and placed a small wooden tray with two cups of hot tea on the bedside table.

He made his way to the kitchen, where he took out the ingredients he had bought the day before for breakfast. He began preparing a light yet delicious meal, fluffy scrambled eggs, fresh bread, crispy bacon, and a colorful fruit salad. He took his time with each step, adding a pinch of rosemary to the eggs, slicing the strawberries.

Once the meal was ready, he returned to the bedroom, a gentle expression on his face. He sat down softly on the edge of the bed and reached out to caress Izumi's cheek. She murmured and slowly opened her eyes, a look of surprise in her gaze.

"Good morning, my beauty," Shikai said with a smile.

"Shikai..." Izumi murmured, her voice still hoarse with sleep. She sat up, rubbing her eyes. She noticed the tray with the flowers and tea. A soft smile appeared on her face. "This is beautiful. You shouldn't have."

"Of course I should," Shikai replied, looking into her eyes. "I wanted your wake-up to be as gentle as possible."

Izumi blushed slightly, but she leaned forward and kissed Shikai on the forehead. "Thank you, Shikai. Everything is perfect."

They ate together, in a comfortable silence, punctuated by smiles and knowing glances. After finishing their breakfast, Izumi took a deep breath and said,

"Shikai, there's something I'd like to talk to you about..."

Shikai encouraged her to continue with a look.

"My parents... I'd like you to meet them. They're... they're worried about me, and... I think it's time." She crossed her fingers, a bit nervous.

Shikai smiled at her and took her hands in his. "Izumi, I'd be honored to meet your parents. It doesn't bother me at all. Tell me when I should come, and I'll be there."

Izumi smiled with relief. "Thank you, Shikai. Tomorrow, would that work for you? They're free."

"Tomorrow works perfectly. I'll be there, I promise." Shikai assured her.

Izumi snuggled up to him, a beaming smile on her face. But, as if suddenly remembering something, her face expressed a hint of worry.

"But you, don't forget, you said you had to go to the hospital?"

Shikai held her tenderly. "Yes, you're right. I have to go. And you, try to rest."

He kissed Izumi one last time and stood up. He grabbed his bag and left the apartment.

As he walked through the bustling streets of Konoha, Shikai felt a wave of nostalgia. The crowd bustled around him, children laughed while playing. Suddenly, he recognized two little girls arguing, their faces red with anger. It was Ino and Sakura, much younger than he knew them, around ten years old.