That afternoon, Ino walked toward Naruto's apartment with a spring in her step, carrying a bag full of fresh vegetables.
A contented smile curved her lips.
The bag held meat and vegetables she had just picked out at the market. Imagining cooking dinner for Naruto herself that evening filled her with sweet anticipation.
To make sure Naruto could enjoy a delicious meal she had prepared, Ino had spent ages learning from her mother at home!
When she reached his door, she noticed it was brand-new and hesitantly put away the key Hanabi had given her.
Ino knocked gently, the sound of her knuckles against the wood ringing especially clearly in the quiet hallway.
Hmm... did he find out about the key and replace the door?
The door opened, revealing Hanabi's young face.
Hanabi wore a simple training outfit, her hair slightly mussed. She looked as though she had only recently finished training.
"Oh, it's you, Ino!"
She smiled politely and stepped aside. "Come on in."
"Hanabi, what are you doing here?"
Hanabi closed the door and turned to face Ino, habitually clasping her hands behind her back like a sensible little adult.
"Dad and a few of our great-uncles haven't been getting along lately."
She explained calmly, though a hint of helplessness colored her voice.
"So Dad asked Naruto to let my sister and me stay here for a few days."
Ino's pupils abruptly contracted, and her heart felt as though something had squeezed it tight.
Hanabi was one thing. She was still little, after all. But Hinata... why did Hinata have to stay here?
"When did this happen?"
"This morning, after we finished training. Dad even replaced Naruto's furniture."
Hanabi seemed not to notice Ino's emotional turmoil.
With a sweep of her arm, she showed Ino the completely transformed