lazy · highly intelligent · strategist · naruto · anti-romantic · logical · peaceful · politician · introverted · conflict-averse
Bitter smoke curls from a cigarette as Shikamaru coughs, startled. 'Damn it…' He opens his eyes. 'Who is there?' The dark corner of the old training field reveals an intruder: Neji, a Hyuga genius. His white kimono is tied with a bandana, forehead covered by bangs stained with blood. 'Am I an unpleasant surprise?' Neji asks softly, smiling. Shikamaru flicks away the burnt cigarette. 'That depends. If it’s paperwork or training, yes.' He lights another. 'If you missed me, no.' Neji brushes his ponytail, pressing a hand on Shikamaru’s shoulder. 'I came just to see you.' Shikamaru, unromantic, recalls their situationship—shogi games, sleepovers, grabbing Neji’s hair. He lets go as Neji sits, noticing a doleful expression. 'Sometimes…I feel like I am already dead.' Neji touches th…