15 More Than Friends, Less Than Lovers
The trio, consisting of Hayashi, Hinata, and Shino, followed Kurenai out of the ninja school and arrived at a deserted and secluded open space within the village. Surrounded by woods, the area featured a few wooden stakes. These stakes indicated its former use as a practice field.
"Since this is our first meeting, let's start with introductions. We'll share what we like, what we dislike, and our dreams for the future. I'll begin..." Kurenai turned to face the three of them, her beautiful countenance exuding a hint of determination as she kindly addressed them.
"My name is Yuhi Kurenai, and I will be your guide Jonin going forward. You can call me Teacher Kurenai. I specialize in Genjutsu techniques. I enjoy shochu, vodka, and wasabi octopus, but I have a strong aversion to cakes. My dream is to become a formidable ninja akin to Lady Tsunade."
"Now, how about you?" she directed her gaze towards Hayashi.
Sensing her scrutiny, he spoke up. "My name is Yusuke Hayashi. I excel in swordsmanship. As for my preferences and dislikes, there are many. However, my dream is to become a ninja capable of handling any challenge single-handedly."
His brief and direct introduction caught Kurenai off guard, prompting a subtle shift in her demeanor.
Beside her, Hinata couldn't help but stifle a giggle. "Hayashi is as indifferent as ever," she remarked softly.
Turning her attention to Hinata and Shino, Kurenai prompted them to introduce themselves.
"Yes," Hinata replied promptly before proceeding with her introduction.
"My name is Hyuga Hinata, and I specialize in physical arts. I have many interests, but I particularly enjoy embossing flowers. There's nothing I particularly dislike. As for my dream..." she hesitated, her voice trailing off as she struggled to articulate her true aspirations.
Inwardly, she longed to express her desire to be with Hayashi forever. However, the words remained unspoken, buried beneath layers of uncertainty and hesitation.
"A housewife?" Kurenai couldn't discern Hinata's inner thoughts, but as she looked at the demure girl, her gaze softened.
Turning her attention to Shino, Kurenai observed his strong presence despite his reserved demeanor. She listened intently as he introduced himself.
"My name is Aburame Shino, and I specialize in family secrets. I enjoy vegetable salads and winter melons, while I dislike overly pungent flavors. My hobby is observing insects, and my dream is to discover new insect species," Shino said calmly.
"Very good!"
After gaining a preliminary understanding of the trio, Kurenai nodded approvingly.
"While we are still getting acquainted, I need to assess your individual strengths and team dynamics. Tomorrow morning, at nine o'clock, we will gather here for a survival battle exercise."
As a gentle woman, Kurenai refrained from threatening them with the prospect of failing to graduate. She recognized the potential within the three individuals before her—one from a prominent family, another the top student, and the third displaying exceptional team awareness. It was only natural for her to value and nurture their abilities, rather than adopting a harsh approach.
Although her demeanor might be perceived as inexperienced and overly gentle by other Jonin, Kurenai's approach endeared her to Hayashi and his teammates.
Unlike Inuzuka Kiba, who harbored disdain for female Jonin, Hayashi appreciated Kurenai's guidance. With Kiba's absent and lacking Naruto's rebellious nature, Team 8 demonstrated exceptional team cohesion.
With Hayashi's strength and leadership potential, coupled with Hinata's unwavering support and Shino's unique skills, Kurenai believed that Team 8 had the makings of a formidable team under Hayashi's leadership.
After Team 8 disbanded, he and Hinata walked together, making their way back to his home.
"Hayashi, what do you think is the purpose of Teacher Kurenai's survival exercise? Do you think it's truly about assessing our strength and teamwork?" Hinata inquired as they strolled along the road, seeking conversation.
He shook his head, pondering the question.
"I don't think so. She doesn't strike me as deceitful."
Though he understood the true purpose behind the survival exercise—the classic test of teamwork exemplified by the bell test—he wasn't inclined to engage in such pretense. He doubted his teacher's intent was solely about evaluating their abilities.
As they reached the street, Hinata and Hayashi temporarily parted ways. He returned home, attending to chores and preparing rice.
Shortly after, Hinata arrived with vegetables in tow. Together, they busied themselves in the kitchen, preparing lunch and engaging in light-hearted conversation.
Mostly, it was Hayashi who spoke, regaling her with anecdotes and observations, while she responded with soft laughter and smiles.
As the time passed, he decided it was time to begin Hinata's training.
This girl, Hinata, was incredibly shy. He knew this fact all too well.
During their initial encounters, her face would flush crimson. Steam practically emanated from her head, and she'd faint at the slightest hint of closeness. It took him considerable time to address this issue, developing a keen sense for Hinata's body temperature and knowing when she reached her limits.
Over the past years, their relationship had progressed beyond mere hugs. Especially as Hinata matured, her delicate appearance with flowing locks easily evoked a sense of conquest.
During their shared cooking sessions, he would often tease her. He'd wrap his arms around her slender waist from behind, slipping warm palms beneath her apron. Clad in a white windbreaker, he'd gently stroke her stomach. Simultaneously, he engaged her in conversation, his hot breath brushing against her ears.
Taking advantage of her rising body temperature and distraction, he'd deftly sneak a taste before Hinata could react. Skillfully, he concluded their training session, stealing food before she even finished cooking.
Though Hinata would inevitably blush with embarrassment once she regained her composure, she never fainted. Her flustered appearance was always a delight to behold.
It's worth noting that Hinata's first kiss was almost stolen by him. It happened one afternoon a year ago, while she was taking a rare nap at his house. Despite the pretense of sleep, they both knew she was awake.
At that moment, as their thoughts intertwined, their lips nearly met in a kiss. However, he held back with all his might. When their eyes met, Hinata saw a rare sight—embarrassment flickered across his face, revealing a vulnerability she had never witnessed before.
