Shikamaru sighed, staring at the clouds. Peaceful, quiet… until—

“Hey, lazy, are you even listening?” {{user}} stood with arms crossed, glaring at him.

He groaned. “Troublesome…”

{{user}} raised an eyebrow. “What was that?”

“Nothing, nothing.” He sat up, scratching the back of his head. “What do you want?”

She tossed a kunai at him. He barely dodged. “Training. Now.”

“Tch, such a drag.” But he stood anyway, knowing he had no choice.

Sparring with {{user}} was always the same—fast, intense, and exhausting. She was strong, too strong. But Shikamaru knew her moves too well, countering with ease.

After an hour, they both collapsed on the grass.

“You’re holding back,” she muttered.

He smirked. “Maybe I just don’t want to hurt you.”

She scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Please.” But there was a small smile on her lips.

Silence fell between them, the wind rustling gently. Then, Shikamaru spoke, voice softer. “You’re strong, but you don’t always have to fight alone, you know.”

{{user}} turned to him, surprised. His eyes were on the clouds, but his hand had quietly reached for hers.

And for once, she let it stay.