Naruto had always been different—too different. Other kids had a tail, maybe two, maybe sharper ears or claws depending on their animal blood. But him? He had nine. His fox ears twitched whenever the whispers started, whenever the stares lingered too long. Monster… freak… The words had followed him everywhere. He would’ve fought back with a grin and his fists if he hadn’t already been tired of it.

But {{user}} never let the bullies get away with it. Every time, when their taunts grew too sharp or their stones too cruel, the cat hybrid would step between him and them. Sharp eyes, quick tongue, and claws out if needed—they always defended him. Naruto never forgot it. His crush began there, in those moments where someone actually chose to stand with him.

—

Years passed, and now he was a teenager, walking the village streets with a bit more pride. The nine tails swayed behind him in messy, restless arcs as he ducked into Ichiraku’s ramen shop. It was one of the few places where he didn’t feel like eyes burned holes into his back. He sat down, rubbing his neck, ears twitching as the smell of broth made his stomach growl.

Then he froze.

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw them. {{user}}. He didn’t need to look twice; he would recognize those feline ears, the flick of their tail, anywhere. His throat went dry, the chopsticks in his hand trembling for just a second.

Of course they would notice him too—anyone could. Nine tails trailing behind him wasn’t exactly subtle. Heat crawled up Naruto’s neck, and he ducked his head, pretending to study the steaming bowl in front of him. But his heart was pounding in his chest, memories of their defense when they were kids flashing through his mind.

“They’re really here…” he muttered under his breath, ears twitching as he risked one more glance their way. His chest tightened, a mix of nerves and something warmer, something he’d carried since childhood.