Blessing

"Shikamaru, you're dismissed." Tsunade's folded hands cupped her chin, her eyes trained on Temari after an imperceptible glance down in the direction of the younger girl's obi. The girl looked defensive.

"So you knew already." Shikamaru might look bored but upon closer look his lips had an upward tilt to it.

Tsunade's eyes widened. "Very well you can stay."

"Thank you, Godaime." Shikamaru smirked.

Temari came closer towards the Hokage's desk, trying to look nonchalant. "Here's a letter from the Kazekage."

Tsunade took the scroll without looking at it. "So tell me Temari-san, how are you feelin'?"

"Other than feeling nauseous, craving chocolate and, oh, being cranky all the time, I feel fine." Temari grinned.

"Tsunade-sama, I—we thought well...can Temari stay here until the baby's born? After all the best medics are her—"

"Ass, we also have good medics in Suna!"

"No! They'r—" Temari appeared like she was about to hit Shikamaru. "Yes. Okay. Tch, so Suna also got good medics but you're staying and giving birth here," Shikamaru stated firmly with eyes looking determined for once.

Temari eyed Shikamaru before swivelling her head towards the older woman. "My brothers would probably kill him if we stayed in Suna anyway. Needless to say they are less than happy when we told them."

Tsunade smiled. "I can imagine. You are welcome to stay here."

"Thank you, Tsunade-sama." Temari bowed while Shikamaru openly grinned.

—o0o—

~5 15 11~

~1 2 13AF RP~