Chapter Text
“So, Gaara…” he looked up askance as he saw Naruto standing by the door to his hotel room. They had just spent a couple of hours catching up, and Naruto had decided to go home, but it seemed he still had something else to say.
He was curious when he noted Naruto’s cheeks were red. “Yes?”
“I was wondering… if you want to have ramen with me tomorrow night?” he asked nervously.
“Sure.” he agreed easily, still wondering what was wrong. Naruto’s blush got worse.
“I mean… as in a date.” he muttered.
“…Oh.” Gaara’s eyes widened. Naruto laughed nervously.
“So… Yeah! Want to go?” his voice almost sounded like a whine this time. Gaara studied him, feeling anxious, unsure what to respond. The silence dragged, heavy and awkward, until Naruto forced a grin, “Okay, see you later!”
“Wait!” he called quickly, standing, when Naruto made to rush out of his room. Naruto froze, the door still open in front of him, and turned back hesitantly. “I don’t know what to say.” Gaara explained, hoping his friend would understand. “I’m not against going on a date with you, but I don’t want to jeopardize our friendship.”
A breathless chuckle escaped Naruto’s lips. “As if I would stop being your friend just because we screwed up a date!” he dismissed the mere thought as ridiculous. Gaara relaxed, trusting him. Naruto wasn’t fickle, and he wouldn’t go back on his word so easily. “Does that mean you’re coming?” he asked hesitantly, hopeful.
“…Yes.” he nodded once, after thinking for a couple of seconds. This time, Naruto’s grin was honest and truly delighted.
“Awesome! I’ll pick you up tomorrow at six!” he cried enthusiastically, then quickly left the room.
Gaara watched the closed door in silence for a couple of minutes. Then, a small smile curved his lips.