I really like that there’s a lot to think about, I’m even learning some words. However, I think that all of that time from when they separated and Sakura tried looking for clothes had already made them late to their dinner reservation. Maybe the seconds tick by more slowly when you’re a shinobi even if you’re having a great time, IDK, but it doesn’t feel so realistic.

The conclusion I’m getting from this is that when two young intellectuals are emotional, it’s imperative that they talk it out. Between them, when it’s pretty, it’s pretty. And when it’s bad, it’s pretty bad. Actually, scratch that. Relationships are messy, especially for too smart people like them. Communication is key.

From Shikamaru was not hers to rebound to hearing about his involvement in a certain squad… I guess Inner Sakura is really a godsend sometimes…

I believe that Konoha is like a top-tier village in the Narutoverse and hidden within it are injustices, a social caste system. The way it was described here, along with the people in it, makes it seem more multidimensional, more real.

Beautiful setting, btw.

I understand where she’s coming from. She’s an overthinker. She has never been one for one night stands and her principles state that she must be dating the person she’s doing it with. She loves the situationship but craves commitment and fears her past and the mistakes in it. And Shikamaru is too intelligent.

Anyway, I enjoyed this chapter. It reminds me if a time that I had conversations with myself just like this. Perhaps it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but, oh well, I liked it.

I love this for them, I really do. And I say this as a SasuSaku fan: this is better.

This was really, really good. I love that it’s not forced, there’s actually a story, they obviously admire each other as humans, and the story highlights consent, openness, and vulnerability. It perfectly portrays an insecure girl’s time with somebody who knows better. Also their brains match. Lol

So in love with Shikamaru .

Thank you! Thank you! What a story! ️️️ I love Shikamaru so much... I love this so much TY!

That was a great story.

This... is...AMAZING
OMGOMGOMG thank you!

I come back to the story all the time. You set the bar so high for this pairing. Thank you 3

The first chapter was epic omg

So, I still haven't given up hope and am leaving a comments once more, feveringly hoping to inspire you to bless us with more chapters of the teased sequel. I have re-read the story so many times, certain parts ingrained in my brain, and now for the first time I tried reading it from Shikamaru's point of view, and the angst ah the story makes sense from both their points of view, which I really liked. The introspection and nudges/memories of past events, both canon and not, are also great in reminding the reader that they did not just suddenly become close, but have been around one another's orbit, even close-range, for many years. The trust and also attraction has been there, just not acted upon yet.
I close this by, sorry, once more pledging for moooore hah, I would totally love to read how the story moves forward, the preparations, Shikamaru and Sakura getting to live together, their everyday lives, thoughts, actions...just as an established couple of fiances and how they navigate that.
No pressure, though, if you decide now is not the time, or are otherwise engaged. Maybe see it as just one incentive, proof that one more reader loves your work and is still interested. All the best! :)

This is a surprisingly wholesome story and I'm in love with it AND Shikamaru.