"Really… is it really okay?" Aiko asked, her wide, beautiful eyes fixed on Rock Lee. Her voice trembled with excitement, her expression one of pure joy. For her, the offer felt almost unreal—happiness had come too suddenly.
Konoha Village—the most powerful force in the ninja world. Aiko, a mere Genin from Hoshigakure Village, could never have dreamed of such an opportunity. If she could join Konoha, it would be like ascending to the heavens in a single step. And Rock Lee had even promised to help her find a Jōnin as a teacher!
"Of course you can," Rock Lee said, his chest swelling with pride as he took in Aiko's radiant smile. Her cheeks were flushed with joy, her beauty blooming like a delicate flower after the rain.
"Thank you," Aiko whispered, her face heating up under Rock Lee's gaze. She could sense the warmth in his eyes and suddenly understood why he was being so kind to her.
"You're welcome," Rock Lee said, clearing his throat as he composed himself. "Once the exam in the Forest of Death is over, I'll take you to meet the chief examiner and ask her to accept you as her disciple."
"Chief examiner?" Aiko echoed in surprise.
"Yes, Mitarashi Anko," Rock Lee replied. "She's strong, and her techniques are exceptional. If you train under her, it will be a great opportunity. Don't worry—she won't refuse me."
Aiko's eyes sparkled with hope. She had seen Mitarashi Anko's strength firsthand and was both intimidated and awed by her. If she could really become her disciple, it would be a stroke of unimaginable luck.
"Thank you," Aiko said again, her gratitude evident in her voice as she dressed in the shirt Rock Lee had given her. Slowly, she rose to her feet, revealing a slender, graceful figure. Despite her age, her poise and charm were striking, and the faint vulnerability in her expression only added to her appeal.
"Are you planning to head to the central tower alone, or should I escort you?" Rock Lee asked.
"I'll go alone," Aiko said softly. "I've already lost my qualification for the exam, and my scrolls were taken. No one will bother me now."
"Alright, but be careful," Rock Lee said seriously.
"You too," Aiko replied with a small smile. She hesitated, then stepped forward, quickly pressing her lips to Rock Lee's cheek. Her voice was barely louder than a whisper as she said, "Thank you for saving me. From this moment on, I, Aiko, am your woman and will never regret it."
Rock Lee froze, stunned by her words and the sudden kiss. For a moment, he didn't know what to say.
"You… what are you saying?" Rock Lee stammered, his mind blank.
Aiko looked at him with determination, her cheeks burning. "I'm saying that from today forward, I am your woman. If you want me… you can come to me anytime."
"You don't have to do this," Rock Lee said earnestly. "I didn't save you to earn your gratitude."
"I'm not doing this to repay you," Aiko said, her gaze steady. "I like you, Rock Lee. That's why I want to stay by your side."
Rock Lee stood in stunned silence, unable to respond.
"I know a strong man like you will attract many amazing women in the future," Aiko continued, her voice trembling slightly. "I come from a humble background, and even the chance to live in Konoha is thanks to you. I don't ask for a title or recognition—just let me stay near you, and I'll be content."
She turned away, taking a few steps toward the central tower.
"Aiko, wait!" Rock Lee called, his voice breaking through the quiet forest.
Aiko stopped, her shoulders trembling. She turned back, her eyes wide with surprise.
Rock Lee moved in a blur, closing the distance between them in an instant. He pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly. His head rested near her neck, breathing in the faint fragrance of her hair.
"Wait for me at the central tower," Rock Lee whispered. "I'll join you as soon as I can. And from this moment, you are my woman, Aiko." His voice was firm, almost commanding.
Tears welled in Aiko's eyes as she nodded vigorously. "I'll wait for you," she said, her voice shaking with emotion.
Reluctantly, Rock Lee released her. "Go. I'll come soon."
"Be safe," Aiko said softly before turning and walking away, her steps light and full of purpose.
Rock Lee watched her retreating figure, a mix of emotions swirling in his chest. "So this is what is this what a woman feels like," he murmured to himself. "It's… wonderful."
For a moment, he stood still, calming his thoughts by focusing on his martial arts techniques. He knew that in the Forest of Death, losing focus could mean losing your life.
With a sharp exhale, Rock Lee leaped into motion, his figure darting through the trees with precision and speed, ready to meet with Hyuga Neji. As he moved, a sudden disturbance caught his attention.
"What's this? Someone's fighting ahead—and What a strong murderous aura!" Rock Lee walked forward for about two miles, suddenly stopped, and frowned.