Ruka Hiden : Tangled Paths, Love's Redemption

Twenty One.

The afternoon sun shone brightly over Konohagakure as Kiba Inuzuka wandered through the village, deep in thought. The recent days had been a whirlwind of emotions for him, especially after his breakup with Ruka. He had told her he wasn't ready for marriage, and now she was back from her mission. 

As Kiba approached the Sarutobi compound, he was taken aback by the sight that greeted him. A long, winding line of men, dressed in their finest attire, extended from the entrance of the compound and snaked around the courtyard. The sight was both puzzling and intriguing.

Kiba's curiosity got the better of him, and he approached the line. His gaze landed on one of the applicants, none other than Rock Lee. Lee was standing proudly at the front of the line, his face a picture of determination.

"Kiba!" Lee greeted with his usual exuberance. "What a surprise to see you here!"

Kiba eyed Lee with a mixture of confusion and annoyance. "Hey, Lee. What's with the line? Why is everyone lined up here?"

Lee's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Ah, Kiba! I'm here to participate in the marriage proposals for Lady Ruka. I heard she's considering suitors now that you and she have broken up. I've decided to throw my hat into the ring!"

Kiba's eyes widened in disbelief. "Ruka is already considering marriage proposals? She just got back from her mission. We haven't even had a chance to talk!"

Lee nodded, his expression earnest. "Yes ! I heard from Gai-Sensei that she's open to proposals now. I believe it's a perfect opportunity for me to show her how much I care!"

Kiba's mind raced. He couldn't believe the timing of it all. He had been clear about not wanting marriage, yet now Ruka was apparently ready to consider suitors. The thought of someone else stepping into the role he had rejected stirred a mix of confusion and frustration within him.

As Kiba stood there, grappling with his thoughts, he spotted a familiar figure walking past the line. Gaara, the Sand's Kazekage, was heading directly toward the Sarutobi compound. Kiba's heart sank at the sight of him.

Lee noticed Kiba's change in demeanor and followed his gaze. "Oh, is that Gaara?"

Kiba nodded, his expression darkening. "Yeah, that's him."

Lee looked back at Kiba, a puzzled expression on his face. "What's wrong? You seem troubled."

Kiba's jaw tightened. "It's just... I didn't expect Gaara to show up. Why would he be here?"

Lee shrugged, oblivious to Kiba's growing discomfort. "Maybe he's here to express his interest too. After all, he's a formidable shinobi. But don't worry, Kiba. You have as much chance as anyone."

Kiba forced a smile, though his mind was consumed by unease. The thought of Gaara being one of the potential suitors for Ruka made him feel an unfamiliar pang of jealousy. It wasn't just the idea of Ruka moving on—it was the fear of someone like Gaara, with his stature and strength, possibly becoming a part of her life.

As Gaara entered the compound, Kiba could only watch, a feeling of dread settling in his stomach. The reality of Ruka moving forward with her life without him became more apparent with each passing moment.

-

As Ruka made her way outside, she spotted Gaara striding confidently past the line of men. His presence was commanding, and the crowd parted like the Red Sea, giving him a clear path. Ruka's heart skipped a beat as she saw him approaching.

"Gaara?" Ruka called out, her voice tinged with surprise and confusion. "What are you doing here?"

Gaara stopped in front of her, his usual calm demeanor slightly more intense than usual. "Ruka, I need to speak with you about something important."