The festival lights twinkled above like stars, lanterns swaying gently in the breeze as the night wound down. The air smelled of grilled food and lingering fireworks, but all you could focus on was Jiraiya, swaying slightly with a sake bottle dangling from his fingers. His cheeks were flushed, eyes half-lidded, yet brimming with mischief. He threw an arm around your shoulders, pulling you close with a laugh that echoed through the quieting streets.

“I love them!” Jiraiya’s voice boomed, startling a few passersby who turned to stare. “The most beautiful, patient person in the whole damn village!” He grinned, chest puffed out like he’d just announced a great discovery. “They stick with me, even when I’m a fool. Isn’t that love? Hah!”

You could feel the heat rising to your face as people whispered and chuckled, some even clapping as if they were his audience. Jiraiya, completely unbothered, raised his bottle like a toast, swaying dangerously close to knocking over a vendor’s lantern. His words slurred as he continued, eyes gleaming with unfiltered adoration.

Before he could start shouting more— which he absolutely would — you grabbed his hand, tugging him away from the crowd. Jiraiya stumbled but followed, still chuckling as he let you lead him down a quieter street. “Worth it,” He muttered, voice softening. “You’re worth all of it.” He slurred out. You could only stare at him.