Tsunade unlocked the door to Kitahara Kaede's home with practiced ease.
She left her high heels in the entryway and walked barefoot toward the living room.
The house was quiet.
Water rushed in the direction of the bathroom.
At a glance, it was clear he had only just gotten up. Tsunade figured she'd make breakfast first.
She went straight into the kitchen and pulled open the refrigerator door.
It was completely empty.
Aside from half a wilted tomato lying alone in the corner, she couldn't find so much as a single green onion.
"Kaede!"
Tsunade called out at the top of her lungs.
Kitahara Kaede poked his head out, toothbrush in his mouth, and mumbled, "What is it?"
"Did your house get robbed? Your fridge is cleaner than a whistle!"
Tsunade rolled her eyes in exasperation.
"Hurry up and wash up. We're going grocery shopping!"
The morning market in Konoha was bustling with people.
Tsunade walked ahead, her steps light.
She stopped at a fish stall and bent over, prodding the fish on the cutting board with a finger as if they disgusted her.
"Boss, these fish gills are turning white, and you still dare to charge me the fresh price?"
The vendor grimaced and hurriedly put on a smile. "Oh, Lady Tsunade, these were caught just this morning! Look at their eyes—so bright!"
"Bright my ass! Who do you think you're fooling?" Tsunade snapped, her brows rising sharply.
Kitahara Kaede stood half a step beside her, carrying the basket.
He said nothing, simply watching her in silence.
Watching the bridge of her nose wrinkle as she complained that the fish weren't fresh. Watching the morning light illuminate the fine down on her profile. Watching the smug little smile she couldn't suppress after successfully haggling.
After Tsunade finished picking