"Isn't that Naruto? Want to try some freshly made dumplings?"
"Naruto, want to go get ramen together?"
"Wow, it's Naruto!"
"He's so handsome."
As Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, and Sakura Haruno walked along, they immediately caused quite a stir.
There was no helping it. Sasuke and Sakura were one thing.
But Naruto was simply too popular in Konoha now.
Not everyone necessarily knew him, but most people had a strong impression of him.
So when they saw the three walking past, they immediately called out to them.
"No thanks, we just got back from a mission. We're heading to the Hokage Building to report in."
"Thank you, thank you!"
Naruto was a little flustered as he responded to everyone's kindness, offering them a sincere, apologetic smile before hurrying to catch up with Sasuke and Sakura.
"You're really something, Naruto."
Sakura teased him. "I saw it all just now. Quite a few pretty girls were looking at you with such admiration."
"So, Naruto, interested in any of them?"
Even Sasuke wore a rare smile as he looked at Naruto.
Neither of them felt jealous of Naruto's popularity in Konoha.
They both knew how Naruto had been treated in the village before, and how long he had worked to earn everyone's recognition.
"Oh, come on..."
Naruto waved his hands, a little embarrassed. "Let's go report to Big Brother Naraku first. He's probably waiting."
"Once we're done, let's all go out for a meal."
"I'm hungry. How about you?"
"Me too." Sakura rubbed her stomach, then joined Naruto in looking at Sasuke, waiting for his answer.
Both of them were being considerate of Sasuke's feelings.
Sasuke fell silent for a moment, then nodded.
"I'll go home and shower, then we'll eat together."
"Okay."
"It's settled, then. We couldn't even get a proper bath