Sukiyaki (Untouchable Memories)

Shanan sat outside the academy beneath the ancient oak's shade, her book open but unread. Breaktime's warmth and laughter surrounded her, yet her mind drifted to her class's impending Genin team assignments. 

Anxiety crept in, disrupting her serenity. Separation from Naruto and Sasuke was unthinkable, though their graduation was still two years away. 

As she gazed across the courtyard, sunlight filtering through the oak's leaves illuminated Sasuke's face, his laughter with Naruto infectious. Her heart swelled, her feelings for him deepening beyond friendship. His rare smiles, reserved just for her, stirred a tender ache. Other girls admired him, and she couldn't help but agree - Sasuke's quiet strength captivated her.

Despite his popularity, Sasuke chose to focus his attention on Shanan, and she couldn't help but bask in the warmth of his affection. Yet, his admiration came at a price. The Sasuke Fan Club, a group of overly enthusiastic girls, taunted her mercilessly, their jealousy and ridicule rolling off her shoulders. She found their audacity amusing, her confidence was innate, rooted in her vibrant personality, natural charm, and the love of Naruto and Sasuke. Their unwavering acceptance enveloped her, making her feel uniquely cherished.

Her own classmates tended to treat her with cautious respect, awed by her extraordinary abilities. They'd witnessed her effortlessly manipulate life forces, transforming herself and even plants into water with eerie grace.

As Shanan sat beneath the tree, lost in thought, Sasuke's gaze met hers. He flashed a soft smile and waved, his eyes crinkling. Her heart skipped a beat. She smiled and waved back at him, her cheeks warming.

The Sasuke Fan Club erupted into indignant shrieks and teasing remarks.

"Ugh, she thinks she's so special."

"Must be her weird powers."

"I hate her, I hate her, I hate her!"

Shanan stifled a snort, amused by their petty outbursts. Naruto and Sasuke, however, swiftly countered, their defense fierce.

The fan club exchanged insults and threats with Naruto, and pouted whenever Sasuke admonished them. They consistently failed to grasp that their cruelty only strengthened the boys' protective stance.

In these moments, the brothers were indistinguishable, united in their fervent defense of Shanan.

Her gaze fell upon Sakura, whose relentless pursuit of Sasuke's attention bordered on obsession. Intelligence flickered beneath her polished exterior, yet shallow priorities overshadowed her potential. Naruto's fondness for Sakura perplexed Shanan, given the latter's consistent cruelty toward him.

Sakura's beauty and charm were tainted by her fixation, her actions a mismatch with her captivating appearance. Nonetheless, Shanan sensed untapped depth within her, waiting to be unleashed if she ever rebalanced her priorities.

Her attention turned to Hinata, the sole girl enamored with Naruto, instead of Sasuke. Her quiet nature belied an intense fascination, her gaze often fixed on Naruto from afar. Shanan noticed her frequently sketching, the subject of her artwork a mystery. Occasionally, Hinata's lips curled into a gentle smile, as if amused by invisible whispers. She wondered if Hinata's Byakugan revealed secrets hidden from others.

Shanan sensed a deep and gentle soul and envisioned them forming a strong bond, exploring shared interests.

She continued observing her schoolmates, as she often did from beneath the tree. Her gaze turned to Neji, Hinata's apparent relative, though their interactions seemed nonexistent. Unlike Hinata's shy and timid nature, Neji exuded confidence, his exceptional skills tempered by smugness. While off-putting, his prowess justified his assurance.

She sensed depth beneath Neji's abrasive exterior, potential for growth and kindness. His self-assurance bordered on arrogance, yet vulnerability flickered beneath the surface.

Neji's complex persona intrigued her, a stark contrast to Hinata's quiet elegance.

Her gaze landed on Shino, known for his unsettling affinity with insects. She shuddered at the thought of bugs crawling over him, and worse, potentially inside him. Trying to avoid his gaze, her skin prickled with discomfort.

Despite her unease, she acknowledged Shino's exceptional skill with his insect-based jutsu. However, the prospect of conversing with him made her want to flee.

Her eyes darted away, seeking a less unnerving subject and found Kiba, the lively member of the Inuzuka clan. She smiled as she thought about all the adorable puppies! Kiba's warmth and kindness shone through, evident in his interactions.

He effortlessly befriended Naruto and Sasuke, and even engaged Shino, despite the bug affinity that made Shanan shudder. Kiba's attempts to connect with Hinata, though often met with sudden silence, showcased his patience.

She sensed a genuine soul in Kiba, someone with whom she could easily bond. His clan's canine connection made perfect sense to her the more she thought about it...

Her gaze shifted to Ino, another girl consumed by Sasuke fervor. Her complicated dynamic with Sakura – equal parts friendship and rivalry – intrigued Shanan. Rumors tied Ino's father to a legendary team, but the details eluded her.

Ino's skills remained unclear, overshadowed by her beauty expertise. Hair care and makeup seemed unlikely shinobi talents.

Shanan mused that many academy girls, Ino included, seemed boy-obsessed, but she hoped they'd outgrow it, discovering their own strengths.

Choji was the next person to catch her attention, his warm demeanor making her think they could easily connect. Like Kiba, he got along with most, except those who cruelly taunted his weight. Shanan's protective instincts had kicked in more than once with him; defending him in passing on multiple occasions, teaching harsh lessons to his tormentors.

One memorable instance left a boy unbearably swollen, his entire body bloated to an alarming size, rendering him nearly immobile for days. Shanan's unique retribution preceded a heartfelt lecture, ensuring he grasped the harm inflicted by his words.

Her thoughts now turned to Rock Lee, her trusted classmate and friend. They shared a table at the front of the classroom, where Lee's unwavering determination inspired her. Though he grasped concepts slowly, Shanan delighted in explaining them in ways he understood. His eyes sparkling with comprehension brought her joy and she admired his refusal to surrender to obstacles.

Lee often took her playful antics seriously, but laughter followed easily once she clarified the joke. Their Taijutsu sparring sessions honed her skills, thanks to his patience and willingness to break techniques down, mirroring her own teaching style.

She cherished their friendship, grateful for Lee's enthusiasm and supportive nature.

Her mind struggled to recall the name of one of the boys' other classmates, his cleverness likely surpassing hers and exceptionally skilled. Frustration mounted as she scanned the area to find him, but his face remained elusive.

Memories of Sasuke's grumblings resurfaced. This enigmatic student consistently outperformed him on tests with ease, often appearing half-asleep during exams. He'd hastily scribble answers, then succumb to slumber, snoring softly while others finished.

However, Sasuke had found solace in discovering his classmate was a year older, having started at the academy late due to laziness, or so Sasuke claimed.

One detail stuck: he was Choji's closest friend. Scanning the area again, she spotted Choji sitting alone near the time-out wall's shadow, but his friend was nowhere to be seen.

Her thoughts lingered on the seemingly invisible classmate, but then her gaze returned to Naruto and Sasuke, her closest bonds. Despite their youth—Naruto and Sasuke around ten and a half, herself twelve and a half—they each faced unique struggles. 

Naruto, once completely ostracized, found solace in their little family, easing his pain. With each passing year, his friendship circle grew, inspiring others with his resilience.

Sasuke, however, wrestled with the weight of expectations. His popularity proved a double-edged sword, drawing admiration and envy. His eyes often betrayed a quiet burden.

As she reflected on the boys, her own journey came into focus. Eight years of memories remained shrouded in mystery, often leaving her feeling disconnected. Yet, hope persisted. With growth, new bonds would form. Scanning the academy grounds, she wondered who those connections might be with and when they'd emerge.

Her gaze returned to Hinata, who currently watched Naruto with concern, the fan club's antics unfolding before her. Sasuke restrained him, trying to de-escalate.

Shanan's curiosity sparked, noticing Hinata's unfinished sketch in her hand. "Hinata!" she called out.

Hinata's face turned bright red as she slowly turned to face Shanan, surprised that someone knew her name. Her eyes widened as she realized who was calling out to her. She had been staring at Naruto, and Shanan's familiarity with him made her heart skip a beat. Quickly, Hinata ducked into a nearby bush.

Shanan giggled. "It's okay!"

Hinata peeked out, meeting Shanan's reassuring smile.

Shanan glanced at Naruto, then back at Hinata. "I won't say anything. Come here," she whispered, beckoning with her hand.

Hinata scanned the surroundings, ensuring no one watched, before crawling closer, stopping in front of the older girl.

"Hey, I noticed your drawing," Shanan said, curiosity sparkling. "Can I see it?"

Hinata's cheeks flushed, and she hugged her sketchbook tightly, her gaze dropping.

"Well..." Shanan said gently, "you don't have to show me. But I already saw enough to know it's a flower; I just wasn't sure which kind."

Hinata's blush deepened.

"So… Do you like flowers?" Shanan asked.

Hinata nodded quickly, still shy, her eyes averted.

"I mean, if you're drawing them, of course you do! How silly of me." Shanan smiled. 

Hinata's silent chuckle escaped.

"I actually read a book about shade gardens a few years ago. I'd love to start one, but..." She laughed. "There's really not much shade on a rooftop, is there, Hinata?"

Hinata giggled, shaking her head. "No, there isn't."

A warm smile spread on Shanan's face. "You live in a pretty big house; I bet you have gorgeous gardens! Do you get to help tend them at all?"

"Um… well," Hinata hesitated. "None of the big ones. But I started my own water garden in a little corner of the yard."

"A water garden? Really?" Shanan asked, eyes wide.

Hinata nodded enthusiastically. "Those are my favorite. Actually... if you still want to see, I was drawing one of my new blooms."

She revealed her sketch. "It just opened this morning."

"That's a stunning lotus! You're really talented! I'd love to come and see it in person!"

"You can come see it!" Hinata said, excitedly. "I don't know anyone else who loves flowers like I do. We only have them to show off."

Shanan grinned mischievously. "Oh... well, I love them. I might've borrowed a few from your yard once or twice. But I clip them carefully, where it hurts them least, and only if it'll remain unnoticed." Shanan chuckled. "It's fine though; I'm a poor little orphan girl. I get extra grace for things parents might teach you not to do." Her infectious giggles encouraged Hinata to laugh along.

Hinata's tension eased, replaced by warmth and shared amusement.

"The fact that water gardens are your favorite really feels meant to be," Shanan said, smiling.

"Oh, why?" 

"Because of my water-based chakra nature!" Shanan exclaimed. "I'm drawn to water elements. I actually think that's why I'm so intuitive. Based on my research, anyway."

"Oh, I've heard different chakra natures can affect the mind and body in specific ways. Is that what your book's about?"

"Uh…" Shanan chuckled, glancing down at the open book. "No, actually... you'll probably think it's gross. This one's about amphibians."

Hinata's eyes widened. "Actually, I really love toads! I have a few little friends that love my garden."

"You do? Oh my god! Did you know some mountain toads get as big as buildings?!"

"Do they really?"

Shanan nodded enthusiastically. "Yes! They can even be summoned, but this book barely touches on that. It references another book I'll have to read next, though. Toad summons sound perfect for me!"

"I think toads would suit you well," Hinata said, smiling. "It would really surprise people."

Shanan raised an eyebrow. "Why would it surprise anyone?"

Hinata giggled. "Well, I bet people would expect you to summon something cute, like a baby panda."

"You're joking, right?" Shanan's expression turned stern. "Hinata, summoning pandas is way too dangerous." She paused, assuming a contemplative pose, hands clasped together in front of her face. "If I ever summoned a panda... I'd never unsummon it. He'd live with me, be my best little friend. You'd all have to get used to seeing him around the village, shopping with me and having lunch with me and trying on hats with me."

Shanan burst into laughter.

Hinata joined in, her laughter blending with Shanan's.

Shanan gazed over at Naruto and Sasuke, immersed in a heated debate with older boys from her class, Naruto now restraining Sasuke.

She smiled warmly. "Look at how cute they are..."

Hinata's cheeks flushed pink. She poked her pointer fingers together. "You say that so easily."

Shanan leaned forward, tilting her head. "Well... Naruto is my sweetest little boy. How can I not dote on him?" Her eyes sparkled with affection.

Hinata's blush deepened.

"And Sasuke is very handsome. Ask any of these girls." She chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "But you would have to ask, because you like Naruto."

Hinata's face flushed deeper, and she retreated into herself.

Shanan's expression softened. "I promise I won't mention it." Gazing at Naruto, she smiled fondly. "He wouldn't know what to do with that information anyway. He's my innocent baby... I don't think he even grasps his crush on Sakura yet." Her expression turned sincere. "But I'm genuinely happy if anyone has a crush on him, it's you. Because... Well, I think he'll always be a bit innocent. And I think you'll always understand that about him." Looking back at Hinata, she asked, "Does that make sense?" Her eyes locked onto Hinata's.

Hinata gazed at Naruto, a gentle smile spreading across her face. She turned back to Shanan, nodding. "I think I do understand, Shanan."

Shanan's smile radiated warmth. Her thoughts danced with images of Naruto enveloped in profound love, his vibrant spirit softened by devotion. She yearned for him to find a soulmate who would gentle his heart, cherish his every smile and nurture his compassion.

In this envisioned union, Naruto's protective nature would flourish, safeguarding his beloved with unwavering dedication. His world would revolve around her, his every moment filled with affection and sweetness.

"I was embarrassed you caught me, but now I'm really glad you did. You're so kind." Her cheeks flushed anew, and she gazed down. "Um... is it true you used to threaten to flood the whole village when people were mean to Naruto?"

 "Absolutely!" Shanan's smile grew into a radiant beam. "And I still will if I have to."

Hinata's chuckle filled the air. "I remember hearing adults discuss your threats when I was younger. I thought, 'That's what anyone gets for being mean to him.'" She whispered, "But I never said it aloud, or I'd surely get scolded."

Shanan laughed, enchanted by Hinata's feisty side. But then curiosity sparked in her mind. "Would you really get in trouble if you said that out loud?"

Hinata's brow furrowed, and she nodded solemnly.

"But why?"

"Well, my big house comes with a lot of expectations. Actually… I never live up to them anyway, so I should've said it."

Shanan's expression softened. She sat quietly for a few moments, her gaze locked onto Hinata. "Hinata... What do you mean you never live up to expectations? Whose expectations?"

Hinata's gaze dropped. "The clan's... or, well, my dad's, since he's the head. He always says I'm not as good as my little sister." Her words barely escaped her lips. "He even told me I wouldn't get to take over the clan when I grow up. I was supposed to, but now my sister gets to."

Shanan's eyes widened as she took a moment to process the weight of Hinata's words. Then, with tender deliberation, she enveloped Hinata in a warm, comforting hug. 

Hinata wrapped her arms around Shanan, surrendering to the solace of her embrace. As they hugged, tension melted from her shoulders, replaced by a sense of safety.

Time stood still. Breaths synchronized, hearts connected.

After a tender eternity, Hinata leaned back, her cheeks flushed. Eyes locked onto Shanan's, she whispered, "Thank you."

Shanan's gentle smile and soft nod echoed unconditional understanding. "Hinata, you have your whole life to be who you want. Expecting anything from a child is a losing battle for demanding parents."

As she spoke, Hinata's eyes locked onto hers, thirsting for reassurance.

"I don't have parents, but I know some are like that... Telling you you're not good enough to run the clan is hurtful. And a complex is so easily given. Take his words as a challenge, not a limitation," Shanan urged, intensity igniting in her gaze. "But, Hinata, here's the most crucial part: don't prove yourself to him, prove yourself to you." Her hands gently framed Hinata's face. "Your worth isn't tied to the clan. Freedom from that responsibility can be a blessing. And I bet your dad would be warmer if he weren't leading a powerful clan, don't you think?"

Hinata's expression softened, a gentle laugh escaping. "Yeah... I bet he would." Determination sparked in her eyes. "You're right; I should stop trying to prove myself to him. Even when I do well, he cuts me down. So... I should just be proud of myself anyway."

Shanan's smile bloomed wider. "I'll be proud of you, too, if you'd like."

Hinata's eyes welled up, and she nodded. "That would make me really happy."

Shanan's arms enveloped Hinata once more, a comforting squeeze sealing their bond.

Naruto and Sasuke approached, their laughter filling the air.

"Your comeback to that fan girl was epic, Sasuke! When she said, 'You're lucky I have to go to my friend's house later!' and you were like, 'Oh, you have a friend...' Her face!" Naruto chuckled.

Sasuke smirked. "And your 'Unless you're giving us detention, then stay out of this! You look old enough to be a Sensei' line had that guy fuming!"

They sat beside Shanan and Hinata, still grinning.

"Hey, Hinata," Naruto said. "Why are you two hugging?"

The girls parted, exchanging smiles.

Shanan began to speak, but Sasuke cut in.

"Did you see those guys from your class arguing with us?"

Just as Shanan was about to ask more, Naruto jumped in.

"I guess one of their sisters is one of Sasuke's fangirls - the one I said looks like a bird."

Sasuke burst into laughter. "What does that even mean?"

"I dunno," Naruto shrugged. "I can't really explain it. But when I see her, I just think, 'Wow, she looks like a big bird!'"

Shanan giggled, exchanging amused glances with Hinata. She leaned over, pinching Naruto's cheek. "You guys really are little cuties."

Naruto's face flushed. "Don't embarrass me in front of Hinata! She's not used to this."

Shanan then poked Sasuke's nose, and he flinched slightly. 

"Do you really have to do that?" he asked.

Shanan stood, smiling slyly. "Both of you, stop acting like you don't like it."

Sasuke stood up with her.

"Don't worry," Naruto said, leaning in closer to Hinata. "It won't be long before she starts doing that stuff to you too. If she hugs you, then you know she likes you." He jumped up. "Hey, you wanna come over sometime?" he asked as he offered his hand, helping her up.

"Ha! You idiot," Sasuke teased. "She lives in a grand estate. You think she wants to hang out at our tiny place?"

Hinata blushed as Naruto released her hand and rushed over to Sasuke, arguing enthusiastically.

Shanan fell back, walking beside Hinata, and playfully grasped her hand. "You're never gonna wash this hand again, are you?" she whispered.

Hinata blushed deeper.

Shanan laughed, linking arms with Hinata. "Come sit with me tomorrow, Hinata. And every day, if you want!"

Together, they strolled back into the academy.

Their individual classrooms beckoned, but as Shanan walked alongside Hinata, arm in arm, a warm smile spread across her face. For once, she had a girl to share secrets, laughter, and quiet moments with. No more being the sole female amidst roughhousing and testosterone-fueled antics.