"Miso Chashu Ramen! Extra-large bowl!"
Naruto could hardly wait.
"I'll have Tonkotsu Ramen. A small bowl is fine."
"Same as Ino, Tonkotsu Ramen, but a regular bowl."
The steaming ramen soon arrived, its rich aroma making their mouths water.
The three dug in, the sounds of slurping noodles rising one after another.
Occasionally, they looked up to exchange a few words, broth still clinging to the corners of their mouths.
"Genya's treating!"
Having finished her meal, Ino gave a sly smile.
"Why me?"
Genya raised an eyebrow.
"Because you're the richest!"
Naruto added with complete conviction.
"The notice board said you have five hundred million ryo!"
"...That's the money backing my bounty on Danzo, not pocket money."
Genya was speechless, but he readily paid the bill anyway.
"Fine, I'll treat you."
By the time they finished their ramen, night had fully fallen, and Konoha's streetlights lit up one by one.
The three walked home side by side, first seeing Ino to her door.
"I had so much fun today! Thank you both!"
Standing at her door, Ino waved to Genya and Naruto, a bright smile on her face.
"Come play with me again! You too, Naruto!"
"Yeah! Definitely!"
Naruto answered loudly.
Genya nodded.
"Get some rest, Ino."
After watching Ino turn and run inside, Genya and Naruto continued on.
They reached a fork in the road. Naruto's apartment and the Uchiha Clan Compound lay in opposite directions.
"Well... I'll head home, Genya."
Naruto sounded reluctant to leave.
A whole day as lively, fulfilling, and happy as this was far too precious to him.
"Yeah, go on. Remember to eat on time, and stop eating expired instant noodles."
Genya reminded him.
"Got it!"
Naruto nodded vigorously, then turned and ran toward his little apartment. After a few steps, he looked back