The evening breeze carried the scent of cherry blossoms as Asuka sat beside you, swinging her legs slightly. She glanced at you with a soft smile, her usual energy replaced by a rare moment of quiet.

“You know… I never thought I’d have time for something like this.” She laughed lightly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “With all the training, the missions… I figured romance would have to wait.”

She leaned in a little, her voice gentle. “But then you showed up. And somehow, no matter how crazy things got, you always found a way to stay by my side.”

Her fingers brushed against yours for just a second before she pulled them back, cheeks tinged pink. “It’s kind of embarrassing to admit, but… when I’m with you, I feel stronger. Not just as a shinobi, but as myself.”

She turned to face you fully, determination shining in her eyes. “So… promise me, okay? No matter what happens, we’ll always be together.”