Konoha Street lay beneath the night sky, its lights sparse and dim.
With his hands in his pockets, Genya strolled along the stone-paved road, watching the three figures walking side by side ahead of him.
Konan walked in the middle, her blue hair gleaming softly in the moonlight.
Ino held her left arm, chattering animatedly and breaking into bright laughter every so often.
Hinata walked on the right. Though she did not dare be as affectionate as Ino, she stayed close, listening attentively and occasionally adding a word or two, a gentle smile on her face.
"Konan, you have no idea. Last time, that guy Genya..."
"Really? He actually did something like that?"
"Yes, yes! And another time..."
Genya's mouth twitched.
Was friendship between women... really that simple?
They'd been at each other's throats in the Barbecue Restaurant, and now they were already acting like sisters?
He remembered how naturally Ino had called her "Big Sister Konan." Hinata had timidly followed suit, and Konan had actually nodded with a smile.
Three women made a whole drama.
The old saying hadn't lied.
At the intersection, Ino stopped and turned to wave at Genya.
"We'll head home now! See you tomorrow, Konan!"
Hinata bowed slightly as well.
"Good night, Konan. Good night, Genya..."
Konan nodded.
"See you tomorrow."
Ino pulled Hinata away, casting Genya a meaningful look before she left.
That look clearly said, I'll settle the score with you later.
Genya pretended not to notice.
Once the two were far away, Genya walked up beside Konan and sighed.
"Come on. Let's go home."
They walked down the street side by side.
Konan suddenly spoke.
"You have quite a few little girlfriends."
Genya faltered midstep and gave a couple of awkward laughs.
"N-no, I don't..."
"The one named Ino likes you."
"The