"Dad, Mom, that's the situation.
I'm leaving Pakura in your care today."
Come to think of it, these two seemed to be in a really good mood today.
Why did they keep smiling at me?
Usually, they only had eyes for each other. When did they ever have time to look at me?
"Pakura, I'm off. Make sure you take care of what we discussed!"
"Okay!"
Xuanhui patted her shoulder, then turned into a streak of light. He didn't even use the door, flying straight out the window.
Pakura sat before the couple, her legs pressed tightly together as she nervously rubbed her knees.
"Um... Xuanhui wanted me to keep you two company today, Uncle, Auntie."
"Still calling us Uncle and Auntie?"
The couple sat down on either side of Pakura.
Nara Yamanaka gently held Pakura's hand.
"Relax, little Pakura. Just think of us as your family."
"Okay..."
"Little Pakura, what do you think of our Xuanhui?"
"Um..."
Pakura stumbled over her words again. She patted her cheeks, then took a deep breath.
"Could you two keep this a secret for me?"
"We won't tell him a thing."
"I like him."
The couple didn't even exchange a glance. They simply raised their hands and high-fived.
"Just tell us what's on your mind. Once you get it out, you won't feel so nervous."
Uchiha Uzumaki handed Pakura a bottle of water. After drinking a cup, she calmed down.
"I think I started liking Brother Xuanhui several years ago.
Back then, no one my age in Sunagakure could beat me, but Brother Xuanhui defeated me mercilessly. I really admired him then, but I never saw him again.
I didn't know how strong Brother Xuanhui was. I'd only heard of his reputation.
Then, two years ago, just after the Hidden Sand Village went