The night comes

The night comes and it is forty five minutes before the designated time. You're standing in front of Shizune's home, knowing from Ino's book that Shizune would be ready at least around that time. Since her place isn't that far from the village square, she will leave in another five minutes to arrive there at least thirty minutes before the promised time.

As expected from an amateur stalker. You told Ino that she's a pro but she shook her head and says that she has yet to surpass the real expert in the field. When you ask about the expert's identity, Ino shrugged and said that you're supposed to be able to infer from the books that she offers you.

Unfortunately, you haven't found the answer yet. Oh well, maybe someone you don't know.

You knock on the door and a minute later, the door opens, revealing a fully ready but surprised Shizune. "Naruto? You're already here? I thought that we're supposed to meet at square in 45 minutes.

"I wanted to meet you," you say, recalling the words from one of the books your sensei wrote.

Shizune blushes at your words.

You note that Tonton isn't around. She probably gave her pig pet to someone else to take care; to be honest, you don't really care if she brings it along. But then again, maybe it's good to be alone with her tonight. "Let us go," you say while bowing, one hand on your chest and the other gesturing towards the town.

The woman chuckles. "You don't have do that, Naruto. I'm not a princess."

"Ah, but you are my princess," you say as you hold a hand towards her.

Shizune takes your hand shyly. "Very well, my prince. Let the way,"

You bring her to a traditional restaurant run by a retired shinobi, knowing from Ino's guide that it offers a lot rice-based food that should suit Shizune's taste. While it's not Ichiraku Ramen, you survived without Ichiraku Ramen for three years during your training, forgoing ramen itself for five months at one point. Besides, the restaurant is well known for its red bean soup and you're looking forward to it. "Let's go," you say as pull her towards the place eagerly.

"Wait, Naruto, Ichiraku is over that way..."

"Yeah . I know."

Your decision to bring Shizune to another restaurant surprises her. "Genmai-Ai?" she questions.

"'Brown Rice Love' probably to advertise that the owner like brown rice very much."

"Just like..." Shizune regards you with curiosity. "You knew?"

"Don't need any book to tell me." you reply.

"A book?"

"Figure of speech," you hastily adds to cover your blabbing.

Your slight mistake go unnoticed and the meal progresses rather pleasantly. The two of you chat pleasantly until the end.