CHAPTER 26:INO'S DATE PLAN

Scene shifts to Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi, still watching the area where Naruto stood victorious:

A warm smile spread across his face, eyes crinkling at the corners

"Ahahah, Naruto Uzumaki's future is indeed bright... Minato would be proud of his son's growth," he thought to himself, feeling a sense of relief and happiness for the village's next generation.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the area:

Sasuke walked away, disappearing into the crowd, surrounded by complicated gazes:

- Ino and Choji looked concerned for his pride.

- Shikamaru seemed indifferent, yet slightly intrigued by Sasuke's defeat.

- Sakura trailed behind, stopping midway – her heart torn between loyalty to Sasuke and newfound admiration for Naruto.

Kokoro's voice in Sakura's mind whispered conflicting thoughts:

"Choose Naruto – he's stronger, kinder... Yet Sasuke needs you now, broken pride and all."

Sakura stood frozen, unable to decide.

Back to Naruto:

He was about to leave the training grounds when

Ino approached him, blush spreading across her cheeks:

"N-Naruto, tomorrow's Sunday... no missions or training scheduled. W-would you like to... go out with me? Maybe grab some ramen at Ichiraku?"

Naruto's face lit up with surprise and delight:

"Really, Ino? Tomorrow works perfectly – I'm free! Ichiraku ramen sounds amazing!"

Ino beamed happily, relieved he agreed –

From a distance, Hinata Hyuga watched this exchange, her heart sinking:

Her eyes filled with subtle sadness as she turned away, whispering to herself –

"Naruto-san... already someone else's special day..."

Ino's heart skipped beats as Naruto confirmed their plans for tomorrow:

She floated away from the conversation spot, still facing him, with a bright smile:

"Tomorrow then, Naruto – Ichiraku Ramen at 12 noon! I'll meet you there."

Naruto grinned back, thumbs up:

"Looking forward to it, Ino – best ramen in village guaranteed with your company!"

Ino's blush deepened as she turned around, walking away with an extra bounce in her step

Her mind already racing with romantic scenarios:

Imagining Naruto holding her hand while walking to Ichiraku

Picturing Naruto laughing at her jokes, eyes crinkling at corners

Dreaming of Naruto possibly calling her "beautiful" tomorrow...

Meanwhile, Naruto watched Ino leave, still smiling – feeling happy about tomorrow's plans.

Suddenly, his stomach growled loudly – reminding him of today's missed lunch:

Naruto chuckled and headed towards Ichiraku Ramen (ironically) to grab a solo early dinner before tomorrow's date.

Later that evening, at Ino's home:

Naruto drifted off to sleep, exhausted from the day's events, but his mind remained active:

He entered a vivid dream state images swirling together in a bizarre scenario:

Ino smiled brightly at him, handing over a bowl of Ichiraku ramen – but suddenly Sakura appeared beside her, looking concerned.

Hinata then materialized behind them, her eyes cast downward, cheeks flushed – Naruto's dream self felt puzzled by her presence.

The three girls started talking at once – Ino saying "Tomorrow's date will be fun!",

Sakura mentioning to herself "Sasuke needs your help...",

and Hinata whispering

"Maybe someday you'll notice me..."

Naruto's dream self spun around, trying to respond to each girl – but they vanished into mist before he could speak.

He woke up with a start, heart racing slightly – morning sunlight streaming through his window.

Confused thoughts lingered:

"Ino – tomorrow's date... Sakura – what about Sasuke?... Hinata – notice her for what?"

Naruto rubbed his eyes, clearing sleep – realizing his feelings might be more complicated than he thought.

Time to get ready – Ino awaits at Ichiraku Ramen at noon!

[ COMTINUE ]ദ്ദി(˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ ) ✧

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