Thought it was You Shikamaru. (Shikaino Shikamaru x ino)

Chapter 23: Reflections Under the Stars

The return journey to the Hidden Leaf Village felt significantly longer than their earlier trek to the small town. With the sun now set and the moon casting a silvery glow over the landscape, the atmosphere had shifted. Shadows danced between the trees, and the familiar sights of the village loomed like comforting giants in the night.

As Team 10 reached the village gates, Ino felt a sense of accomplishment wash over her. They had gathered critical information, but the memory of the encounter with the Akatsuki members lingered ominously in her mind. She glanced at Shikamaru, who was deep in conversation with Asuma.

"We'll report everything to the Hokage," Asuma said, his tone serious. "Stay sharp, Shikamaru. This could be more dangerous than we anticipated."

"Got it," Shikamaru replied, his expression thoughtful. "But we should also keep an eye on Naruto. We don't know what they're planning."

Asuma nodded, a hint of concern in his eyes. "Right. I'll be back soon. You two head home."

Ino watched as Asuma and Shikamaru walked away, their silhouettes fading into the shadows. A comfortable silence settled between her and Choji as they began their walk home.

"Hey, Ino," Choji said, breaking the quiet. "What did you think about Shikamaru back there?"

Ino raised an eyebrow, surprised by the sudden shift in conversation. "What do you mean?"

"I mean... you two seemed pretty close during the mission. You were laughing and hanging out for a long time at the hotel," Choji said, his tone light but curious.

Ino felt her cheeks heat up at the implication. "Oh, come on, Choji! It's not like that!" she protested, though her heart raced at the thought. "We were just working together. He was doing his job."

Choji shrugged, a knowing smile on his face. "Yeah, but it seemed like there was something more there. You know he's really smart and capable, right? He always thinks things through."

"Of course I know that!" Ino replied, crossing her arms defiantly. "I've always known he's smart. But that doesn't mean anything!"

"Are you sure?" Choji asked, glancing sideways at her. "You were really worried about him when those guys showed up. And you both made it out together. That has to mean something."

Ino sighed, trying to gather her thoughts. "I mean... he is dependable. And he's always there when I need him," she admitted, her voice softer. "But I'm just trying to focus on being a ninja right now, you know? I can't think about stuff like that."

"Fair enough," Choji replied, his tone understanding. "But I can tell you care about him. You look out for each other."

Ino's heart fluttered at Choji's words. "I guess I do care about him," she said quietly, the truth settling in her mind. "But I don't want to complicate things. We have our own missions and goals."

"Just don't close yourself off completely," Choji advised gently. "Sometimes, the best things come from unexpected places."

As they walked through the familiar streets of the village, the night air was cool against Ino's skin. She found herself lost in thought, recalling moments from their time in the hotel-the way Shikamaru had leaned back, effortlessly confident as they played shogi, the way his eyes sparkled with amusement during their banter, and how he had listened intently as she shared her thoughts, making her feel understood.

"Thanks, Choji," she said, finally breaking the silence. "I appreciate you looking out for me."

"No problem! That's what friends are for," he replied cheerfully. "And who knows? Maybe something will happen between you two!"

Ino chuckled softly, shaking her head. "You really think so?"

"I do! Just keep an open mind," he encouraged.

They continued their walk, and Ino couldn't shake off the feeling that there might be more to her connection with Shikamaru than she had previously acknowledged. The night was peaceful, but her heart raced with the possibilities that lay ahead.

When they finally reached her house, Ino paused at the door, turning to Choji. "Thanks for walking with me. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Yeah! See you, Ino!" Choji replied, waving goodbye as he headed down the street.