The plain bowl was so clean it could reflect a face. Jiraiya set it down and turned his head slightly, stealing a glance at Tsunade.
Tsunade, who had been staring at his profile all along, noticed immediately. An indescribable mix of feelings welled up inside her, and she turned her head the other way with practiced ease.
Her pale blond hair slipped down her neck as she turned, hiding her delicate collarbones.
The ends fell against the glimpse of fair skin between the folds of her neckline, drawing the eye irresistibly.
Jiraiya was no exception. His gaze drifted down from Tsunade's lovely face, and then his grip on the bowl tightened. Inwardly berating himself, he turned back and looked away.
I can't be as tactless as I was when I was little and make her dislike me. I have to take Tsunade seriously. I have to give her all the respect she deserves and make sure she doesn't feel offended...
Jiraiya laid down rule after rule for himself, exercising an ascetic's discipline in every little thing.
Tsunade herself didn't know why she had turned away, fleeing his gaze. She frowned in mild annoyance, feeling as though she had somehow conceded defeat.
I'd already made up my mind. This time, while he's clearheaded, I'm going to tell him how I feel again, properly!
That's right! Come on, Tsunade! Be brave!
Just like Big Sister Chidori Cloud said, I can't always wait for him to come to me. I have to reach out, go after what I want, and touch it myself!
She took a deep breath, steeling herself to meet Jiraiya's eyes and confess again.
She turned back with determination in her eyes, only to see Jiraiya turn away with equal determination and stare blankly into his empty bowl.
*Ugh... is