Chapter 21 Unexpected Bonds

A week passed, and Mikoto and Pakura had developed a solid friendship in that short time. They moved past their initial reservations and began to enjoy each other's company. 

While they weren't yet deeply close, their interactions were marked by a genuine camaraderie.

They often shared lighthearted conversations, and Pakura gradually opened up, feeling more comfortable in Mikoto's presence. 

Mikoto's friendly teasing and Pakura's responses became a regular part of their interactions, creating a pleasant and respectful rapport.

One afternoon, as they sat together in the garden, Pakura looked at Mikoto with a grateful smile. "I didn't have expeted to find friend in such situation."

Mikoto returned the smile. "It's been nice having you around. We may not be best friends yet, but it's good to have someone to talk to."

Pakura nodded, appreciating the straightforwardness of Mikoto's words. "I feel the same way. Thank you for making me feel welcome."

soon pakura stood up and left to her room 

As they were alone in the room Mikoto looked at Hiro

"Hiro, what do you think of Pakura?" she asked, breaking the silence.

Hiro raised an eyebrow hearing her question. "She's been through a lot, and it's clear she's still carrying the weight of her past. But she seems like a strong and capable person. I'm glad we could help her."

Mikoto nodded, her eyes reflecting her thoughts. "I agree. She's a good person, and it's been nice having her around. But..."

Hiro looked at her curiously. "What's on your mind?"

Mikoto took a deep breath, her tone serious. "You and I alone can't rebuild the Uchiha lineage, especially with Sasuke still so young. Pakura is powerful, with a strong Kekkei Genkai. I've been thinking that it might be beneficial for you to take Pakura as your wife."

Hiro's eyes widened in surprise. "You're suggesting that i should marry Pakura to secure the future of the Uchiha bloodline?"

"Yes," Mikoto confirmed. "Pakura's strength and her Kekkei Genkai make her a valuable candidate. It's a practical solution for ensuring the continuation of the lineage."

Hiro's face broke into a teasing grin. "Wifey, you're thinking too much. It's not every day someone suggests I should add a powerful kunoichi to my list of responsibilities."

Mikoto raised an eyebrow, though she couldn't help a small smile. "I'm just trying to think ahead. It's not something to be taken lightly."

Hiro chuckled, leaning back with a relaxed posture. "True, but you're not giving me much credit. I'm quite capable of handling multiple responsibilities, you know."

Mikoto's smile widened slightly, though her eyes remained serious. "Handling responsibilities is one thing. This is about securing the future of our clan, and it's not something to be taken lightly."

Hiro shrugged, still grinning. "Alright, alright. I'll think about it. But you know, you don't have to worry so much. Sometimes, the best solutions come when we're not overthinking everything."

Mikoto shook her head, her tone a mix of amusement and frustration. "You always manage to make light of serious matters."

Hiro pondered the reality of his situation. In this world, having more than one wife was normal—this wasn't the world he originally came from. Mikoto didn't seem to have any issue with the idea, which was a relief. But a new thought crept into his mind: convincing Pakura.

He let out a small sigh, considering the challenge ahead. Pakura didn't seem like the type to be easily persuaded, especially when it came to something as significant as marriage. He could already imagine the scenario in his head—if he tried to explain that he wanted her help in saving the Uchiha clan, he might end up with more than just a verbal rejection.

"She'd probably slap me," he muttered under his breath, a wry smile on his face.

Mikoto glanced at him, noticing his momentary distraction. "What are you thinking about?"

Hiro shook his head, returning his focus to her. "Just thinking about how I'd approach Pakura with this... proposal. I'm not sure she'd be as open to the idea as you are."

Mikoto considered this, her expression thoughtful. "Pakura values strength and honesty. If you approach her with sincerity and show that this isn't just about the clan, but about valuing her as a person, she might be more receptive."

Hiro nodded, though he still had his doubts. "Maybe. But I can't exactly walk up to her and say, 'Hey, I need your help to save my clan, so let's get married.' It doesn't quite have the right ring to it."

Mikoto chuckled softly. "No, it doesn't. But you don't have to rush it. Take your time to get to know her better. Let her see that you genuinely care about her, not just as a potential wife, but as a person."

Hiro smiled, appreciating Mikoto's wisdom. "You're right. I'll approach it carefully. And if she still slaps me, well, at least I'll know I tried."

Mikoto smirked, a teasing glint in her eyes. "You might want to work on your charm a bit more before then."

Hiro laughed, the tension of the earlier conversation easing. "I'll do my best. But honestly, I think I might need your help more than I thought. You're better at these things than I am."

Mikoto's expression softened, her gaze warm. "Just be yourself."

Hiro's smile lingered as he glanced out at the garden, his thoughts still half-entwined with the challenge ahead. "Being myself, huh? Let's hope that's enough," he mused, more to himself than to Mikoto.

Hiro teased with a smirk, "You're the one thinking about adding Pakura to the family. It seems like you two really became good friends—you don't want her to go away."

Mikoto chuckled softly, shaking her head. "Maybe you're right. But it's not just about friendship. Pakura is strong and capable, and she deserves a place where she can belong."

Hiro's expression softened as he looked at her. "I get that. But it's more than just saving the clan, isn't it? You've grown fond of her too."

Mikoto nodded slightly, her gaze thoughtful. "She's been through so much, just like us. I just want her to know that she's welcome here, and that we care about her beyond just her strength."

Hiro smiled warmly. "Then if this is going to work, it's got to be about more than duty. If Pakura's going to be part of this family, it should be because she feels like she belongs here, with us."