Chapter 31

— For the first while, it's best to avoid straining your hand and, God forbid, using chakra. But with gradual recovery of motor skills and getting used to it, it should feel like your own, — I informed the woman with a smile. — The eye should be working fine already.

After bending and straightening her still somewhat unresponsive fingers, Suzuka unexpectedly sniffled, and her eyes sparkled with tears.

— Thank you, I don't even know how I can thank you, — she smiled, throwing a look that made me unexpectedly feel warm.

— No need to thank me, — I waved it off.

Still, it was moments like these that made choosing the profession of a doctor worthwhile. I modestly refrained from mentioning that I had pushed through an extended lunch break with a scandal involving the administration officials and threats of resignation from my side.

Unfortunately, I couldn't drag the shelter manager to work before the start of the day, unlike Shibatori and his student. The damn women in the registry and at the cashier (the Hokage's administrative burps, never having been shinobi) didn't hesitate to go to the one-eyed Hyuga with such "outrage," but they were sent packing and promptly shut up.

Those mutts will not dictate to me whom to prioritize for acceptance and whom to push to the end or reject for lack of funds. And the fact that the former Anbu has no money — that's not even worth asking.

With such a shitty attitude towards our own people, I am increasingly considering creating my own small medical facility on a clan basis. It would clearly be more effective and cheaper. Recruit young people from the shelter, train them well for a couple of years, and then gradually increase their qualifications during live practice.

A sudden kiss, interrupting my thoughts, made me focus on the present. Not to say I was very surprised, but my hands found their way around the waist of the woman sitting next to me, holding her tighter.

— Not that I'm complaining, but that wasn't really necessary, — I said after reluctantly pulling away with a sigh of regret.

— I know, but leaving you without a kiss as a reward for returning to normal life, instead of constantly feeling like a cripple, is worth much more, you can believe me, Ryu-kun, — Suzume smirked.

— Actually, I already have two lovers, — I said sarcastically, casting a suggestive glance at her hands, which hadn't released my neck from their embrace.

— I know, which is why I'm not expecting anything. Our age difference is too great for a normal relationship, — the former kunoichi shrugged, but then came very close and whispered in my ear, — but I wouldn't mind a roll in the hay a couple of times if the desire arises.

Feeling the firm curves, I involuntarily looked down into her dress's neckline and confirmed the absence of any underwear on the visitor. My body immediately attempted to react in the most understandable way, but fortunately, I managed to suppress the embarrassment and maintain outward calm. Suzuka, however, wasn't so easily deceived; her knowing smile clearly showed her awareness of my reaction to such a direct provocation. However, she chose not to comment and preferred to leave with the last word. Within moments, when I had somewhat taken control of my wandering thoughts and even come up with a suitable response, there was no one left to address it. Well.

— Who was that? — Eshi suddenly poked his head through the doorframe.

— A good acquaintance who needed help, — I answered absently and, perking up, asked, — Did you need something?

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