After parting ways with Sakura, Naruto returned home.
"You're back?"
A gentle male voice came from the kitchen.
Inoichi Yamanaka emerged wearing a plain apron, carrying a steaming platter of tempura. The aroma of fried shrimp and vegetables instantly filled the living room.
"Yeah, I'm back."
Naruto answered him.
He crouched down and carefully set Big Yellow, whom he had been holding in his arms, on the floor.
The moment the little pup touched the ground, it sniffed warily at its unfamiliar surroundings, its tiny nose twitching.
Then, apparently satisfied that it was safe, it wagged its tail and trotted over to a soft patch of rug beside the sofa. It curled into a golden ball of fur, its eyelids quickly drooping.
Within seconds, faint, steady snores began to sound.
"Looks like it's worn out, too."
Inoichi carefully placed the tempura platter on the dining table. He smiled gently at the puppy that had fallen asleep in an instant.
"Where did you get a puppy?"
He untied his apron, his gaze resting softly on the sleeping Big Yellow.
"It's pretty cute. Such a glossy coat."
"Hana gave it to me."
Naruto washed his hands and sat down at the dining table, his tone lightening at the mention of Hana Inuzuka.
"It's a ninja dog raised by the Inuzuka Clan. I named it Big Yellow."
"Oh? A ninja dog from the Inuzuka Clan?"
Inoichi raised his eyebrows, a flicker of understanding and approval crossing his eyes.
"That's quite something.
The Inuzuka Clan's secret techniques for working with their ninja dogs are famous. The ninja dogs they raise aren't just loyal; they often have excellent sensing and tracking abilities, too.
Treat it well, and it'll become a partner you can count on."
"I will!"
Naruto nodded earnestly. Looking at the tiny figure