Chapter 18: The Uncertainty

Itachi had only been a chunin for a few months before he was assigned to Anbu.

"The Anbu are an elite group of hand-picked shinobi who serve directly under the command of the village leader, the Hokage," Shisui explained one evening, his voice steady and serious. "They are tasked with missions that require the utmost secrecy and stealth, setting them apart from the main village ninja force. Their responsibilities include handling high-risk, sensitive operations such as assassination, espionage, and protecting the Kage."

As I listened, a knot of worry tightened in my chest. The idea of Itachi being involved in such dangerous missions filled me with unease. But, there was more to that than just the dangers of being in the Anbu.

"Is there a way out of the Anbu?" I asked, my voice betraying the stress that had begun to build within me.

"Yes, but only if permitted by the Hokage," Shisui replied, a hint of surprise in his eyes at my question.

"Even so, my father and the clan would never allow it," Itachi interjected, a frown creasing his brow as he spoke.

Shisui turned to him, and in that brief exchange of glances, a silent understanding passed between them. It was a wordless conversation, one that spoke volumes about the secrets they shared and the burdens they carried. Even though I'd long suspected that they were hiding things from me, I had never pressed them for answers, respecting their need for discretion. But things felt different now; the presence of fate loomed closer than ever.

"It is time both of you spill the beans. How long will you keep me in the dark?" I demanded, impatient as I looked between the two Uchihas.

"Aki..." Itachi met my gaze, his eyes filled with a sadness that made my heart ache. "We didn't want to involve you... It's a burden of the Uchiha."

I stared at him, the sting of his words cutting deeper than I had anticipated. "Is it because I'm an outsider?" I asked, my voice trembling slightly as I struggled to mask the hurt.

"No," he replied firmly, his gaze piercing through the facade I had tried to construct. "It's not what you're thinking."

Shisui stepped forward, his demeanor shifting as he took on the responsibility of the conversation. "Listen, Aki," he began, his tone earnest. "We don't care if you're an outsider or not. You are our friend, and we just want you to be safe." His sincerity comforted me, but the weight of his words still pressed heavily on my chest. "The matters of the Uchiha are not something trivial that can be solved so easily...even we don't know what kind of threats we will be facing."

I felt a mixture of fear and anxiety wash over me, the tension in my body coiling tight. "But you trust me, don't you?" I pressed, my gaze shifting frantically between the two, searching for the reassurance I so desperately craved.

Shisui placed a steady hand on Itachi's shoulder, offering a silent nod of encouragement. Itachi returned the gesture, a brief but significant exchange—a wordless agreement.

"I'm sure you've noticed the tension between the Uchiha clan and the rest of the village," Shisui began, his expression more serious than I had ever seen. "You must have felt the dissatisfaction among the Uchiha clansmen."

I nodded, recalling the unease and whispered conversations that seemed to follow the Uchiha wherever they went.

"You see, after the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox's Attack, the village leaders grew suspicious," Shisui stated, his voice steady yet laden with the weight of the truth he was about to share. He paused briefly, allowing the gravity of his words to settle in the air between us. "Words spread around that the Uchiha were behind it due to the Sharingan's ability to control the beast," he continued, each word deliberate and measured.

His gaze was unwavering, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.

"From that point on, the Uchiha were placed under close surveillance. The mistrust and isolation from the village have festered over the years, rekindling old grudges and fueling resentment toward the government and the village as a whole. Every action, every movement is scrutinized by the village leaders and even the villagers themselves, ...as if they're all waiting for a misstep."

I listened intently, my heart heavy with the implications of his words.

Both the Uchiha boys' expressions were stoic, but I could sense the turmoil beneath their calm exterior. The struggle of balancing loyalty to their clan with the desire to protect the village they loved was an internal battle that mirrored the larger conflict brewing around them. The knowledge of this strained relationship weighed heavily on them, a responsibility they bore with quiet, admirable strength.

So, that was the reason for their isolation. I'd always wondered about that. I knew it had something to do with the attack on that night, but I had no idea it was related to them—the Sharingan: a symbol of the Uchiha's power, had become a double-edged sword, a source of both fear and mistrust that threatened to widen the fracture with each passing day.

"The Uchiha, led by my father, Fugaku Uchiha, are planning a coup d'état to overthrow the village leadership," Itachi added, his voice calm but laced with an undercurrent of tension. "It is only a matter of time."

My eyes flew wide open in shock. I had known things were bad, but I never imagined it would escalate to the point of a coup d'état. The revelation was staggering.

"The Uchiha are starting to insert their members within the village's command structure to act as spies," Itachi continued, his voice strained with the weight of his confession, then he paused for a breath. "And, I am one of them. I've been placed in the Anbu, the direct arm of the Hokage, to report back to my father."

His words were difficult to swallow. The enormity of the situation settled over me like a shroud, leaving me grappling with the implications of their revelations. The world as I knew it seemed to shift beneath my feet, and the path forward suddenly appeared fraught with danger and uncertainty.

"That's—" I tried to form words, but nothing came out.

What formed was the growing fear inside my heart. It intensified dramatically, each beat echoing like a drum in my ears. I felt my breath quicken, turning ragged as my chest tightened with the weight of impending doom.

"You have no part in this, Aki," Itachi's voice broke through my spiraling thoughts, "There is nothing you can do."

I stared at him, a sense of helplessness slowly taking root, but I was unwilling to accept the truth of his words.

Gradually, a shadow cast by drifting clouds crept over the clearing, enveloping my two dearest friends in its embrace. The sunlight that had bathed them in warmth moments ago was obscured, dimming the light in their eyes and casting a somber hue on their faces.

Yet, the shadows did not reach me. They halted just an inch away from my paws, as if held back by some unseen force. My heart ached with the weight of understanding, and I lowered my head, concealing the pain that threatened to emerge.

This sign, this ominous boundary, felt like a warning of what was to come—a harbinger of death.

"Itachi is right, Aki." Shisui's comforting voice quickly drew me back as he sensed my uneasiness. "We decided that since you are our friend, you deserve to know the truth of the current situation regarding the Uchiha and the Hidden Leaf Village." He exhaled a subtle wariness in his tone. "Things have changed, my friends. From here on out, the future is full of uncertainties."

A fleeting look of sadness passed through Itachi's normally calm features.

"Surveillance has increased significantly this year," he warned with a deep sigh, "We're being watched around the clock. It's not safe anymore."

"Aki," Itachi called, his voice carrying a significance that immediately captured my attention. He turned to face me, his expression was one of seriousness that was impossible to ignore."We... think it's best if you don't come here every day now. Stay home until the situation dies down or at least until it's safe."

His request, though spoken gently, felt like a plea for caution. The idea of distancing myself from my friends was difficult to accept, but I understood the necessity behind his words.

In the silence that followed, I nodded. This was a time for vigilance, and though it meant stepping back, I knew it was for the safety of everyone I cared about.

"But remember," I implore. "We promised that with the three of us, we can overcome anything. So even if I can't do anything to help directly, I need to be informed, or else I'll be worried sick."

Shisui grinned widely, his usual cheerful self re-emerging as he patted my head with a playful gesture. "Have faith in us. There's no need for you to cry."

I hissed in mock indignation, bristling at the implication. "I didn't say anything about crying! I said I'd be worried sick. Stop treating me like a crybaby."

His laughter was infectious, a bright sound that seemed to chase away the shadows of our conversation. Itachi let out a soft chuckle as well, a rare sound that warmed the air around us. He settled down beside me, with Shisui following suit, and together we created a small circle of camaraderie amid uncertainty.

"We can meet up here if we have information to relay to each other. Other than that, we had to keep our distance and keep what we discussed to ourselves. No one must know." Shisui said, looking from Itachi to me.

"Ok."

"It would be nice to eat some dango right now," Itachi mused, closing his eyes as he leaned back on his hands, his head tilted toward the clear sky. The sunlight bathed his face in a gentle glow, and for a moment, it felt as though time had paused, allowing us a brief reprieve.

The mention of dango brought a smile to my face, a simple pleasure that seemed to transcend the weight of our worries. "Yeah, some sweet dangos do sound good along with sweet mango rice." I chimed in, savoring the thought.

"I would like something cool and refreshing for a drink," Shisui added, smiling. "That lemonade from Mrs. Meimei would sound great right now. I wonder if she still has some left?"

"She does make the best lemonade," Itachi commented.

In that moment, I realized that even amidst the challenges we faced, there were still moments of joy to be found in the company of friends.

After conversing for a while, Itachi informed Shisui and me that he had to leave.

"I have to prepare for my first mission tomorrow as an Anbu," he said, turning to me, concern evident in his eyes. "I can't tell you the details of the mission, Aki. Not this time. Anbu missions are top secret, and I've taken vows to keep them confidential. But it is nothing that you should worry about. I will be back in five days."

I frowned, disappointed.

Suddenly, and without any warning, Itachi reached out with two fingers and gently tapped my forehead. The unexpected gesture took me by surprise, and I blinked in astonishment, my eyes widening as I tried to process what had just happened.

I realized I'd started the whole forehead-poking thing, though I never knew why. It had just felt natural—a simple act, yet coming from him, I felt that it carried a depth of meaning that I did not understand.

You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

As I looked up at him, a gentle smile played on his lips, a warmth in his expression that seemed to melt away my confusion. His eyes were calm and steady, radiating a quiet assurance that flowed easily to me. Though he said nothing, the silent communication from him to me was clear: everything would be alright.

I found myself smiling back, the initial astonishment giving way to a sense of peace. "Okay," I replied softly, my voice carrying the weight of my trust in him. "Just be careful and come back safely."

At my words, I saw the subtle tension in his face relax, and he returned my smile with a nod, the gravity of his task momentarily lifting.

"Take care, Itachi," Shisui added, his voice warm with silent support.

As Itachi headed off down the path, his silhouette soon swallowed by the shadows of the trees, I turned to Shisui. His expression was clouded with worry, a reflection of the swirling uncertainties that lay before us. I wasn't sure what concerned him more—the fact that Itachi was in the Anbu or the unstable situation of their clan.

"He is still too young to be in the Anbu," Shisui murmured, his gaze lingering on the trail. "Still too young to bear the burdens of the Uchiha."

Following his gaze, I stared down the now-empty path, realizing the truth in his words. It was easy to forget that Itachi was my age, given his maturity and the calm, measured way he approached everything. He often spoke and thought like an adult, making it hard to remember that he was still just a kid.

"If it were up to me, I would never involve him...," Shisui said, shifting his gaze to meet mine, his eyes filled with trouble as he added, "...and you."

"You are also a kid, Shisui," I reminded him gently. "You aren't much older than us. The two of you shouldn't be the ones bearing such arduous responsibilities."

He sighed deeply, the sound heavy with the weight of all the burdens he bore that seemed to loom over him like a storm cloud.

How I wish I had the power to ease his concerns. If only I weren't so weak—so powerless. All I could do was offer my words as encouragement, a meager offering in the face of the trials we faced. It was a harsh and frustrating truth, one that cut deeper than any blade.

"I know you both think it is not my responsibility to bear... and that's true," I said gravely, acknowledging the reality of our situation. But then I shifted my tone, infusing it with as much brightness and hope as I could muster. "But, ...as long as I am around, even if you forbid me, I won't leave either of you alone to bear it all. You're not alone. We have each other."

Shisui looked at me, and a flicker of warmth softened his eyes, breaking through the veil of worry. He laughed out loud, a welcome balm that chased away some of the gloom. "Aki, ... Do not feel frustrated." He spoke earnestly. "You have no idea how just your presence and your words of support helped us greatly."

I don't know why it surprised me, but it did. I had always known Shisui to be perceptive and acutely aware of his surroundings, yet seeing that awareness turned inward made me unexpectedly happy.

I smiled brightly, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "I will do more than just offer my words of support. Watch me, Shisui. I will become stronger! I won't let anything bad happen to either of you!"

I will save you both!

A wide grin spread on his lips, reaching from ear to ear. "I am watching you, Aki." The corners of his eyes crinkled with genuine amusement and gratitude, and I could see the lightness in his demeanor, even if only for a moment.

I stared at him, my heart swelling with warmth so much that I found myself smiling with him.

Please...

Keep on smiling.

~~~

It had been three long days since I last saw Itachi and Shisui. The separation left a quiet ache in the back of my mind—familiar, but no less heavy.

During those days, I threw myself into my training, sparring tirelessly with my transformed clone. Each session was a dance of precision and power as I worked to perfect my frost jutsu and experiment with new jutsu. Alongside this, I studied medical ninjutsu with a focused intensity, practicing on the dead fish that Grandpa had brought from the Hidden Frost Village. The complexity of healing techniques fascinated me, each success a small victory that I hoped would one day make a difference.

Though I understood the necessity of keeping my distance from the Uchiha compound, given the increased surveillance, I couldn't shake the longing to see my friends. I missed their presence—their laughter, the reassurance that came from knowing that they were safe.

Realizing that I could at least see them from a distance, I decided to venture close but careful to stay away from the compound itself. While I was at it, I thought I might as well visit Naruto too.

I found him by the lake, where the water shimmered under the afternoon sun. I was greeted with his usual energy, but this time, there was a hint of frustration in him that I couldn't help but find amusing.

"I don't get it!" Naruto exclaimed, crossing his arms in indignation and pouting. "What's so great about him anyway? Why does everyone at the Academy seem to like him so much?"

I smiled at his blunt honesty, fiddling with my flimsy fishing rod—hard to manage with paws that were all but useless. Still, it did the job well enough.

"And he always gets in my way!" Naruto continued, huffing in exasperation. "Why do I have to be friends with him? He doesn't even like me." He paused, correcting himself with a defiant tone. "I don't like him one bit!"

I jammed my fishing rod into the dirt with my mouth, securing it, and turned to face him. His frustration was almost endearing, and I had to hold back the urge to laugh. "It seems to me like you two are already good friends," I chuckled.

Shocked, Naruto narrowed his eyes at me, his expression a mixture of disbelief and indignation. "We aren't friends!" he declared emphatically, his voice full of conviction.

"Things may be like this between you two now, but later on, things will be different. Don't worry, Naruto," I said, jumping up onto the boulder he was sitting on. I patted his knee reassuringly, hoping to ease his concerns.

He turned his attention to me, a playful smirk on his lips. "You are one weird lady cat, you know that?"

At this, I couldn't help but thumped his knee playfully with my paw, laughing. "Weird lady cat—that is hilarious!"

"I'm serious," he insisted, meeting my gaze defiantly. "Sometimes, you speak like some witch... no, like a fortune teller—like you know something that I don't."

I grinned mischievously. "What if I told you I am a fortune teller?"

His bright blue eyes widened in surprise, the light in them sparking with excitement. "Wow! Really?! You're such a cool lady cat!"

"Did I just go from weird to cool lady cat?" I teased, enjoying the banter.

"So! Tell me!" he exclaimed eagerly, practically bouncing in his seat with anticipation. He leaned forward, his face inches from mine, his voice rising with excitement. "Will I be the Hokage when I grow up?! Will Sakura be my girlfriend?!"

"Whoa," I said, stepping back slightly, taken aback by his enthusiastic questions. "I can't answer your questions like that. Whether or not you become Hokage is up to you."

His face fell, the bright energy that had enveloped him dissipating in an instant. I couldn't help but smile at him as I reached a paw and poked his forehead, his eyes flickered in surprise.

"So, who is this Sakura girl?" I asked, a teasing glint in my eyes as I sought to lift his spirits.

He turned his head away, a blush creeping up his cheeks and coloring his ears red. "Oh, no one," he mumbled, though his resolve quickly faltered. "Just a cute girl in my class. She's got beautiful pink hair and really green eyes. She's the prettiest girl in the class."

With a playful leap, I landed on his head, making him wobble precariously on the boulder. He grabbed at me to steady us both as I tousled his hair with my paws.

"Hey! What are you doing, weird lady cat?!" he exclaimed, trying to sound annoyed but failing to hide his laughter.

"You're still too young to be fascinated by a girl," I said, clinging to his head as he attempted to pull me off. "Stop being distracted and just focus on your studies if you want to become Hokage."

Though he grumbled in protest, I could tell that my words had reached him in some way. He let down his hands and returned his focus to fishing, pouting but no longer disheartened. "Finee," he mumbled, resignation in his voice.

Perched atop Naruto's head, I had a clear view of the park, the lush green fields stretching out before me, framed by the gentle sway of the surrounding trees. It was a sight that never failed to bring a sense of calm. As I scanned the familiar surroundings, my gaze landed on a pair of figures in the distance—Shisui and Mina. They walked side by side, their conversation punctuated by easy smiles and casual gestures.

Suddenly, I felt a strange tug at my heart.

"Naruto," I said, hopping off his head and landing gracefully beside him. "Can you wait here for me for a bit?"

"Why? Can I come too?" he asked, looking up at me with his big blue eyes that seemed to see through me.

Surprised by his politeness, I almost said yes—but I hesitated. "It's best if you stay here," I told him, though the disappointment in his eyes hit me like a punch to the chest. Softening my voice, I added, "If you'll be a good boy and wait, I promise I'll get you some ramen later."

At the mention of ramen, his eyes lit up with pure longing. "Ok, I will wait right here! Oh boy, ramen!" he exclaimed, his earlier questions forgotten.

Satisfied that he would stay put, I turned my attention back to Shisui and Mina. There was something about their interaction that piqued my curiosity, and I wanted to see if everything was alright. With Naruto content and occupied, the promise of ramen serving as a perfect motivator to keep him in place, I bounded across the park.

They were walking through a section of the park that I hadn't ventured into before or perhaps hadn't even realized existed. It was a hidden gem, a stunning, well-maintained flower garden that seemed to belong to another world. A stone path wound its way through the garden, inviting visitors to stroll among the vibrant array of colorful blooms. The flowerbeds were densely planted, a rich tapestry of spring blossoms such as daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, and other mixed bulbs, creating waves of color and texture that dazzled the senses. Tall trees provided partial shade, their presence adding a peaceful woodland feel to the enchanting scene.

I couldn't help but wonder what was going on.

I slipped after them through the flower beds, each step light and deliberate—silent as a shadow gliding through the blooms, all the while hoping no one would notice me. For some unknown reason, I felt compelled to keep my presence hidden from Shisui. I had to stay far enough away to avoid being sensed, yet close enough to hear their conversation.

As they came to a stop in front of a beautiful rose bush, I crept closer, staying low in my cat form within the tulip flower bed. The roses were in full bloom, their rich red petals a striking contrast against the lush greenery.

Peeking through the tulips, I could see Mina's face. Her expression was a mix of nervousness and anticipation, her hands coming together as she fidgeted. She seemed unable to look up and hold Shisui's gaze, her cheeks flushed a deep crimson that matched the roses beside her.

Shisui stood with his back to me, his posture relaxed yet attentive, as if sensing the gravity of the moment. I watched from my hidden vantage point, my curiosity burning brighter than ever. But suddenly, I realized that this was a scene of quiet intimacy, and I had no right to be here. What I was doing was stalking!

Yet, it was too late to retreat now as Mina finally gathered the courage to speak. Her voice was a gentle whisper at first, but it grew stronger as she continued.

"Do you remember our first day at the Academy?" she began, her eyes darting nervously from one spot on the ground to another. "I was very quiet and shy back then," she paused, hesitating as she gathered her thoughts, "I mean, I was quieter and shyer back then. But—but, I'm much better now."

"When I first saw you, you couldn't even speak," Shisui teased, a playful tone in his voice.

Mina jumped slightly, her surprise evident. "That was—"

"Take it slow, Mina," he comforted her with a light-hearted chuckle, his tone encouraging. "You're doing a lot better now. I almost didn't recognize you."

Mina seemed to brighten at this, her lips curling into a soft smile as she slowly met his gaze. The tension between them seemed to ease, replaced by a tender understanding.

Watching the two of them from my hidden vantage point, a sudden pang of sadness and loneliness washed over me. I hadn't expected such emotions, given the scene of tender confession unfolding before my eyes. I should be happy for them.

Shisui Uchiha was remarkably talented for his age, a prodigy who outclassed everyone in his generation, yet he never boasted about his skills. His humility was as impressive as his abilities. But that wasn't all. He was also incredibly bright and kind, always taking care of those around him with a gentle demeanor and an unwavering smile. It was no wonder that many people were drawn to him, captivated by his warmth and genuine nature. Naturally, he garnered admiration and affection from those he encountered, his presence a source of inspiration and comfort. That much I can not deny.

"Because I was so shy then, it was hard for people to notice me and even harder to make friends. But, you..." She paused, the memory bringing a brighter blush to her cheeks as she once again lowered her gaze. "You just walked over to me and introduced yourself. Your smile was so bright and warm... Since then, I've been watching you. Your kindness and support give me strength, and it helps build my confidence. You probably have no idea how much you helped me, but thank you so much."

I held my breath, waiting patiently for Shisui's response.

"I—"

"I like you!" Mina burst out, interrupting him as she refused to look at him. Her hands clutched tightly to her skirt. "I've liked you a lot and for a very long time! You must have known. You are Shisui Uchiha, after all. But, still. Even if you don't feel the same way, I'm grateful!"

I shifted my hind legs, feeling the weight of the moment.

"You know how the Village feels about the Uchiha?" I heard Shisui ask, his voice steady and calm.

Mina looked up, her face still flushed red but now serious. She nodded, "Yes, I've heard. However, I don't care about any of that. I'm not afraid."

"...Can you give me some time to think about it?" he asked quietly.

I froze in my tracks, surprised by his request.

A look of utter disbelief washed over Mina's features. "Of course!" she exclaimed, clearly not expecting he would even consider her. "Don't feel pressured. I can wait."

A long silence followed, Mina glancing nervously around as if searching for something to say. "Do you want to get something to drink?"

"No, I think I would like some time alone to think."

"Sure. Then, I will leave first," she said, disappointed, but she smiled nonetheless. "See you again, Shisui."

"Yes, see you soon."

As Mina wandered off, occasionally glancing back before she disappeared around a corner, Shisui turned to a nearby bench and sat down heavily.

I expected him to be excited, maybe even happy—but his expression held none of that. I didn't understand why, but I continued to hide, unmoving.

"I know you're there, Aki," I heard him say.

I almost jumped at this revelation.

"But stay there. We can talk from this distance."

"I, ummm... didn't hear anything," I lied through my teeth, hoping to preserve his privacy.

He let out a weary chuckle, then smiled at me. His eyes softened as they met mine.

"Sorry. I didn't think it was gonna be something like this," I said apologetically. "Are you upset?"

He shook his head. "No."

I sighed in relief, the tension easing.

A long silence stretched between us. Shisui shifted his gaze skyward, and I watched him, trying to read the thoughts behind his eyes.

"Mina is a cute girl," I began, trying to fill the silence. "She seems so sweet and gentle. I always knew she had something for you. I can't believe her feelings were this much...." I hesitated, unsure of how to phrase my next question. "Do you like her too?"

He didn't look at me. Instead, he seemed lost in thought, contemplating something deep and complex.

I smiled, trying to lighten the mood. "Hey, if you're worried about what I said before—that nonsense when I was younger—don't be. I don't want to be the reason you and Itachi are holding back on...forming new relationships. I'm older and stronger now. Just don't forget about me, and that's good enough for me."

He turned back to me, a mischievous smile playing on his lips, the familiar glint of playfulness returning to his eyes. "So, what if I do go out with a girl? What would you do?"

I blinked, taken aback by the question. I placed a paw thoughtfully on my chin, considering my response. "Well, as your friend, I would be happy for you. I would support you no matter what."

His grin widened, as if he had anticipated my answer all along. He stretched his arms out, the movement fluid and relaxed. "I'll think about it today, but I think I already know my answer. As you know, right now isn't a good time."

I nodded, understanding the weight behind his words. The current situation between the Uchiha and the village was more tense than ever, a precarious balance that left little room for personal pursuits.

"I wonder if it would be easier for me if I just went along with her," Shisui murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, yet heavy with unspoken conflict.

My ears twitched at his words, and I turned to look back at him, concerned. He was leaning against the bench, his arms crossed defensively over his chest, his head bowed low so that his expression was hidden from view. The posture spoke of a weariness that seemed to settle deep into his bones.

"It would be a lot easier that way," he continued, the resignation in his tone tugging painfully at my heartstrings. There was a vulnerability in his voice that I wasn't used to hearing from him, a hint of surrender that was unsettling.

"What do you mean?" I asked, my voice filled with worry as I tried to understand the turmoil he was grappling with. The idea that someone like Shisui could feel trapped or unsure was foreign to me, and it filled me with a sense of urgency to help him find clarity.

He remained silent for a moment. I could see the subtle rise and fall of his shoulders as he took a deep breath, trying to steady himself.

"It's just... sometimes you want something you can not have. The expectations and the pressure make everything feel so complicated," he admitted finally, his words a quiet confession. He paused, his gaze fixed somewhere beyond the horizon, as if searching for answers in the distance. "And the thought of having something simple, something that's just... easy, is tempting."

I listened intently, my heart aching for my dear friend.

"Shisui," I began softly, "you deserve to find happiness in whatever form it takes. But don't settle for what's easy if it means sacrificing what you truly want."

He nodded slowly, the tension in his frame easing just a fraction as he absorbed my words.

"You're right. It wouldn't be fair. Mina is a nice and kind girl," he continued, his voice softening with sincerity. "She deserves someone better than me—someone who will love and treasure her."

I glanced in the direction where Mina had disappeared, a pang of pity tugging at my heart. I knew she loved him, her feelings genuine and deep. It was a difficult situation, one where emotions and circumstances collided, leaving no easy answers.

"I guess I'll just have to take the hard way," he exhaled with a hint of resignation.

"What are you talking about? Why must you take the hard way?" I questioned him, puzzled by his words.

He chuckled, a lighthearted sound that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Not only are you naive, but also very troublesome. What am I going to do with you, Aki?"

I perched up from the tulips, an eyebrow raised in question. "What are you hiding?"

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his chin supported by one of his hands. "You're still just a kid. I think it's best if you figure it out on your own when you're older."

"Shisuiii," I groaned loudly, feeling a mix of frustration and curiosity. "Just tell me."

He laughed cheerfully, a genuine sound that momentarily lightened the mood. "It's nothing important. Take your time. When you figure it out, you can come find me."

With that, he rose to his feet, the decision seemingly made within him, and began to walk off.

"Hey! Wait up!" I called out, darting to his side, momentarily forgetting about the surveillance and the need for caution. In that instant, the importance of being there for him overshadowed any other concerns.

Just as I was about to follow, a memory tugged at me—my promise to Naruto. I sighed. I could see Shisui again soon... but a promise was a promise.