On the street, pedestrians, shopkeepers, and roadside vendors all watched the young couple with curious looks.
At least, that was what they thought they were. The main reason they drew attention was that most people knew Naruto to some extent, while the other one, Shion, the shrine maiden of the Land of Demons, had become the center of conversation among Konoha's residents ever since she entered Konoha.
Naruto wore an awkward expression. The way everyone was looking at him made him feel rather embarrassed. They were attracting far too much attention, and these gazes were completely different from the coldness and rejection he had faced before—they were clearly watching a show.
"Shion..." Naruto called softly.
"Mm? What is it? What's wrong..." Shion clung to Naruto's arm like a little bird, heedless of everyone around them. Her slightly round cheeks were flushed, and her eyes were half-closed. She was obviously extremely shy too, not nearly as bold as she appeared.
Naruto gave an embarrassed smile. "Let go already, Shion. Everyone's watching!"
Shion was also embarrassed beyond measure, but she recalled what Tōji, the priests, the maids, and the others had told her.
"Although Naruto looks hot-blooded and impulsive on the outside, and can be a big idiot sometimes, he is also delicate and gentle at heart. That is precisely why you were drawn to him, Lady Shion, isn't it? When dealing with Naruto, you can only take the initiative. Otherwise, he will probably keep pretending to be clueless..."
Shion was unbearably embarrassed inside, but she still said resolutely, "No... Let's walk like this. Naruto, how far is your home..."
"Well, my home is indeed a bit far from the inn, but..." Naruto asked uncertainly, "Shion, do you really want to go to my house? My place isn't very nice, and the