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The orange hues of the sunset painted the sky as the day turned to dusk. The clouds danced with the wind and the birds sang a lullaby.
Shikamaru lay down with his right hand behind his head and Temari sat down beside him at the porch of the Nara residence savoring the tranquility of the moment.
Two days had passed since the wind user came to Konoha for the preparation of her upcoming nuptial to the Shadow-nin.
In those days, she had filed for her relocation in the Land of Fire, they dropped by Ino’s shop for the wedding floral arrangements, and visited prominent figures for the crucial alliance between Konoha and Suna.
A considerable amount of time had been used for deliberation of where to celebrate the occasion and the security concerns due to the high-profile event.
After a long tiring day, they finally had alone time together, basking in the warmth of the afternoon light.
“Should we elope?” Temari asked, which took Shikamaru off guard.
“Where does that come from?” The leaf-nin sat up, worry written all over his face.
“I just… I don’t know. With everything to consider and this political pressure, and what if something goes wrong, and the event–"
Shikamaru took Temari’s hand, rubbing his thumb gently.
“You’re anxious, Tem.”
“I… am I?” She realized. “I’m sorry, Shikamaru. I shouldn’t feel this way.”
Shikamaru shook his head, reassuring her. “It’s okay, Temari. That’s normal, a natural response since this will be a major change in our life. I’m relieved you showed me how you feel.”
Temari was a strong-willed person and in those rare moments of weakness, Shikamaru wanted to be her strength.
“I know how stressful this can be and that makes sense. I am here, Temari. You’re safe and not alone.”
Shikamaru wanted her to feel that they are in this together; through thick and thin. This marriage was not built just for an alliance or for the status of each village. What they have is built with friendship, care, respect, trust, safety, love.
“We can do this right, Shikamaru?”
In the next few days, they’ll travel to the Land of Wind to start with the Suna proceedings before the marriage. The Suna Elders might get into his nerves but he knows that whatever they throw at him, his feelings for Temari are greater than anything else.
“Of course, we can, together.” He promised.
“Even if I feel like this - unlovable and–”
With all this going on in her mind, Temari felt insecure and doubted herself. This emotion was overwhelming her.
“Know you are loved, Temari.” Shikamaru countered.
“How do you know?” She asked, needing an assurance.
Shikamaru leaned forward, planting a kiss on Temari’s lips. A soft, gentle kiss that calmed Temari’s heart.
“Because I love you. And if you still want elope, then we will. I’ll marry you. Anytime, anywhere.”