Choji looked at Hinata in surprise and smiled. "Hinata, you're really strong, but I won't give up just like that. Not when barbecue's on the line." With that, he swung his other hand at her.
Hinata did not dodge. Timing it just right, she jumped onto Choji's arm and ran along it toward him. Under his astonished gaze, she struck a chakra point on his arm with her palm. That arm met the same fate as the other, returning to its normal size and becoming immobile.
Hinata smiled. "Choji-kun, you lost."
"Yeah, I lost. No barbecue for me," Choji said dejectedly.
Seeing how downcast he was, Hinata could not bear it. "You want barbecue, Choji-kun? How about this? I'll treat you. Would that be all right?"
The moment Choji heard that Hinata would treat him to barbecue, he broke into an excited smile. "Really, Hinata?"
Seeing him cheer up, Hinata smiled and nodded. "Yes, I'll treat you, Choji-kun."
With Hinata's reassurance, Choji jumped up in excitement. "That's great!" But his excitement soon faded, and he looked downcast again.
Seeing his spirits sink once more, Hinata asked curiously, "What's wrong, Choji-kun?"
"It's nothing," Choji replied. "I'm really happy you're willing to treat me to barbecue, Hinata, but Shikamaru and the others won't get any. I think I'd better pass." He looked as though he had made an agonizing decision.
Hinata smiled at once. "That's no problem. Why don't we invite them too? We can all go out for barbecue to celebrate taking the Chunin Ninja Exams together."
Hearing Hinata's suggestion, Choji brightened again. Their companions, who had heard the exchange, were touched by Choji's gentleness and innocence, as well as Hinata's kindness and warmth.
"I really don't know what to do with Choji," Shikamaru said with a helpless smile. After a