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

Chapter 31: Fear for the Team

The village of Konoha buzzed with a sense of urgency as news spread like wildfire: Sasuke had decided to leave, seeking power from Orochimaru. The weight of impending danger pressed down on everyone, but for Ino, the panic ran deeper. She had seen her teammates go after him-Shikamaru, Choji, and the others were all determined to bring him back, but all Ino could think about was their safety.

Sitting in the flower shop, surrounded by the scents of blossoms, Ino tried to focus on her work, but the fear gnawed at her. Each time she heard a sound outside, her heart raced, hoping it was one of them returning safely. Her mind spiraled, imagining all the scenarios that could unfold: what if they encountered Orochimaru? What if they got hurt?

Ino's thoughts kept drifting back to Shikamaru, how he had looked when they last parted. His confidence had always reassured her, but now, the idea of him facing danger made her stomach twist. She couldn't help but worry about what would happen if he confronted Sasuke alone. Would he be able to bring him back?

Her hands trembled as she arranged a bouquet, the flowers wilting slightly under her anxiety. It was absurd, she thought, to be so worried about them. They were capable ninjas, trained to handle such missions. But deep down, she knew her feelings for Shikamaru had only grown stronger, and the thought of losing him was unbearable.

Just then, the door swung open, and her parents entered, their faces tense. "Ino, have you heard any news?" her father asked, concern lacing his voice.

She shook her head, trying to mask her fear. "No, nothing yet."

As they continued their conversation about the ongoing search for Sasuke, Ino felt an overwhelming urge to break away from her family's shop, to find her teammates and demand they come back home. But instead, she remained rooted to her spot, unable to shake the sense of helplessness that settled over her.

"Please be safe."