ShikadaiXInojin

Caught in the Act

As Inojin and Shikadai stood in the garden, their moment interrupted by a rustling sound, Chocho suddenly appeared from behind a tree, hands on her hips and a mischievous smile on her face.

"Wow, I didn't know you two got this close..."

Both Inojin and Shikadai froze, their eyes wide in shock.

"CHOCHO?!" they exclaimed in unison.

Inojin's voice was slightly strained as he crossed his arms, trying to regain some control over the situation. "How much did you hear, Chubs?"

Chocho rolled her eyes. "First of all, don't call me Chubs—and second, I heard everything." She folded her arms, smirking. "But don't worry, I'm not going to tell anyone about your little secret."

Shikadai sighed, rubbing his temples. "What a drag..."

Chocho tilted her head. "Shikadai, are you okay?"

He nodded, but there was a flicker of discomfort in his eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine, but... Inojin and I... well, Inojin will tell you."

Inojin took a deep breath before giving a reluctant glance toward Chocho. He nodded and began to explain the whole situation, from Shikadai fainting to the unexpected turn of events that led them to where they were now.

Chocho's eyes grew wide in shock as she processed everything. "OMG!!" she gasped, hands flying to her face.

Inojin sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, that's pretty much it."

Chocho raised an eyebrow, looking between them with a teasing grin. "So... you two really went that far?"

"Can we not talk about it in detail?" Shikadai muttered, his face burning.

Chocho ignored him, her grin widening. "Nope! You two need to prove it to me. Kiss each other. Right here. Right now."

Inojin shot her a skeptical look. "Are you serious?"

"Absolutely," Chocho said, crossing her arms firmly. "You say it happened? Then prove it!"

Inojin and Shikadai exchanged a glance, both hesitating for a moment. But then, Shikadai gave a half-hearted shrug. "Guess we don't have much choice."

With a reluctant but understanding smile, Inojin stepped closer to Shikadai. They shared a brief, tender kiss—one that was both soft and meaningful.

Chocho's eyes widened as they pulled apart. "Well... I guess that's enough proof," she said with a grin. "You two are totally whipped for each other."

Shikadai rolled his eyes. "What a drag..."

Inojin chuckled softly, brushing his hair out of his face. "I guess we are."

As Chocho walked away, waving her hand dismissively, she called back, "Don't worry, I'll keep your secret... for now."

Shikadai turned to Inojin, shaking his head in disbelief. "I can't believe that just happened."

Inojin smiled, his hand finding Shikadai's. "Yeah, me neither. But... I'm glad it did."

"Me too."

(End of Part 3.5 and #ShikajinForever)