It had been an extraordinarily long time since Donna had gone on a date with romantic intentions. The memory of her last date seemed a lifetime ago—distant, and almost foggy. In truth, she could count on one hand the number of times she had gone out with Naruto. But those outings were never quite the same. None of them had been dates in the truest sense of the word. She had never voiced her feelings to him then. No, they had always been simple outings—casual, without expectation, just friends spending time together.
And yet, those times, though unspoken, had been some of the happiest she'd ever had. There had been nothing formal about them—just walks, talks, and laughter. Often, there had been others with them, or perhaps Donna had been the one accompanying the group, never alone with Naruto in the sense she secretly longed for. But today… today was different. Today wasn't just another outing.
Today was a date. A date that had come after her confession, when she had finally bared her heart and told him the truth. It hadn't been easy, not for Donna, but once the words were out, there had been no turning back. She had opened herself up, and Naruto, ever so kind and understanding, had accepted her feelings without hesitation.
The battle had ended earlier in the day, at precisely three in the afternoon. The sounds of the coliseum had faded as quickly as the afternoon sun, leaving behind the soft murmur of the palace grounds. Donna had returned to her chambers with a sense of purpose, a nervous excitement in her chest. Naruto had given her two hours—two hours to prepare herself, to step away from the role of warrior and into something more vulnerable, something entirely new.
As she stood in front of the mirror, her body bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, Donna allowed herself a rare moment of self-reflection. She took a scented bath, its sweet fragrance mingling with the cool, fresh air that entered her room through the window. She scrubbed away the dust of battle, the sweat of the day's conflict, and prepared herself for something far more delicate than combat—she was preparing for the heart.
The palace servants had been ever so kind, helping her where needed, as she had grown accustomed to the company of the other girls who were so accustomed to such rituals. They had all been so supportive of her in this moment, even assisting her with her choice of attire. They understood.
She browsed through an array of clothes laid out before her, trying to decide on the perfect outfit. Nothing too revealing. Nothing too flashy. It had to be simple, elegant. She had always preferred an understated elegance over the flamboyant fashions the younger girls might gravitate towards. After some consideration, Donna finally selected a dress—a one-piece, white dress that reached just above her knees. It was simple but beautiful. It didn't scream for attention but radiated grace, a quiet beauty that matched her nature.
Her hair, long and dark, cascaded freely down her back. She didn't tie it up in a complicated style as she might for a battle, but instead allowed it to flow naturally, the way Naruto had often complimented her for—untamed and free. She slipped on black high heels, completing the ensemble with a quiet confidence. It wasn't a look designed to seduce. It wasn't sexy or daring. But it was a look that carried a sense of dignity, an elegant femininity that she knew Naruto would appreciate. She had no need to change herself for him. She had always been herself, and that, she knew, was enough.
As she finished preparing, standing there in front of the mirror, Donna couldn't help but feel a sudden wave of nostalgia wash over her. It was as if she had become that young maiden once again, the one who first felt the flutter of excitement in her chest before a date, the one who had dared to hope, to dream. The years of pain, of loss, of betrayal, and of struggle seemed to recede just a little bit further, overwritten by this new chapter of possibility.
The shadows of her past no longer held the same weight. She had shed them, piece by piece, over time. And now, as she gazed at the woman before her—strong, resilient, yet softened by her own heart—Donna knew she was ready. Ready to take the final step.
She wasn't just Donna Troy, the Amazon, the warrior. No, she was something more now. She was a woman about to step into a new world. And the man she loved—Naruto—was standing there, waiting for her. It was a feeling she could hardly comprehend. Could this really be happening?
There was no more hiding, no more holding back. She had confessed her heart to him. Now, it was time to see where it would go. No matter what the outcome, she knew this moment—this one precious, fragile moment—was something she would treasure forever.
With a deep breath, Donna stepped away from the mirror and walked toward the door. As she left the room, the anticipation building within her felt almost palpable, as though the entire world was holding its breath, waiting for the first steps of a new beginning.
Naruto's heart swelled with affection as he walked into the garden, his gaze immediately locking onto Donna. The soft light of the setting sun bathed the space in a golden glow, creating a serene atmosphere. There she sat, on a stone bench near a small pond, watching the ducks and geese glide gracefully across the water. The tranquility of the moment contrasted with the flutter of nerves in his chest. This was their moment, and he wanted everything to be perfect.
As he approached, Donna looked up at him, her gaze momentarily drifting over his outfit. He had dressed to match her style, as she had hoped. His black coat, paired with a black waistcoat and crisp white shirt, made him look every bit the gentleman. The red tie added a subtle pop of color, and the black pants and shoes completed the look with effortless sophistication. His hair, usually wild and untamed, was neatly combed back, giving him a polished, almost regal appearance. He had even taken the extra step of wearing a watch, something he never did, showing that he truly wanted to make this night special.
Donna's breath caught in her throat at the sight of him. She had seen him in pictures before, of course, but seeing him like this, in person, was an entirely different experience. He looked even more captivating than she had imagined. It was as if he had stepped out of a dream, a vision she could have never fully prepared for. Her heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and admiration.
Naruto offered her his hand, and without hesitation, she took it, rising gracefully from her seat. His eyes were soft with care as they met hers, and Donna could see how deeply he appreciated her efforts. There was something different in his gaze today, something tender that warmed her heart.
"Donna," Naruto spoke softly, his voice carrying a note of reverence. "There is a garden in your face, where roses and white lilies blow; a heavenly paradise is that place, wherein all pleasant fruits do grow. There cherries grow that none may buy, till cherry-ripe themselves do cry."
He spoke with such sincerity, his words wrapping around her like a gentle embrace. As he kissed her hand, Donna felt a warmth spread through her. She had heard him speak with passion before, but never like this. These words were for her, and only her. She had never felt more special than in this moment.
Her heart raced, and a smile blossomed on her face as she looked up at him. "Thank you for your words, Naruto. You look really classy in this style, and I love it."
Unable to contain her joy, she threw her arms around him in a hug, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. She longed to kiss him on the lips, to seal their shared emotions, but they hadn't quite reached that point yet. The bond between them was still new, still unfolding, and she wanted to savor every moment of it.
Naruto grinned, his heart lighter than it had been in days, and in the blink of an eye, he teleported them both to Metropolis.
The city's lights twinkled in the distance as they arrived at the entrance of the aquarium, the hustle and bustle of the city fading away into the peaceful underwater world awaiting them. Inside, the vibrant colors of tropical fish and the graceful movements of sea creatures captivated Donna's attention. She marveled at the beauty of it all as they walked side by side, the water casting ripples of light across their faces. They moved slowly, savoring the quiet magic of the place, stopping occasionally to snap pictures of the creatures they encountered or to capture a moment together.
Though their presence naturally attracted attention—especially Naruto's—most people respected their privacy. After all, Naruto was a well-known figure in this world, a symbol of new beginnings and hope. He was, quite literally, a spark of new life. The crowd watched from a respectful distance, allowing them to enjoy their date without intrusion.
Children, however, were a different story. They couldn't resist the allure of the vibrant energy that radiated from Naruto. One by one, small hands reached up to him, eyes wide with awe. With a gentle smile, Naruto knelt down to meet them at eye level, patting their heads and giving them small, handmade gifts created from Mokuton or crystals. He fashioned the gifts into shapes they desired—dolphins, stars, and animals—and their faces lit up with joy as they clutched the treasures in their hands.
Donna couldn't help but smile as she watched Naruto interact with the children. There was a softness to him in these moments, an openness that she had always admired but never fully seen until now. She could feel his warmth, his kindness, and the genuine love he had for life itself.
As they continued walking, she caught his eye, her heart swelling as she observed the genuine joy he took in these simple moments. He was a man who carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, yet here, with her, he was free—free to give, to love, and to bring happiness to others.
Donna's thoughts lingered on the way Naruto had touched her heart. There was no pretension, no games. It was just honesty, and that was something rare. The way he made her feel—valued, adored, and cherished—was something she hadn't known in a long time. It was a love that transcended battles, beyond the realms of gods and mortals alike.
They continued to walk through the aquarium, laughing and talking, lost in their own world of simple pleasures. And as they passed by an exhibit featuring a school of shimmering fish, Naruto stopped and turned to Donna, his eyes full of unspoken affection.
"How about we take one more picture?" he asked, his voice full of playfulness.
Donna agreed with a smile, and together they posed in front of the vibrant aquarium backdrop, capturing a moment that would stay with them forever.
As they stepped out of the aquarium and into the vast garden, Donna was immediately taken aback by the beauty that surrounded them. The air was fresh, carrying the subtle scent of flowers, herbs, and exotic plants from across the universe. It was a botanical paradise, a fusion of nature from Earth and other worlds, all carefully curated into one breathtaking landscape. The garden stretched for miles, filled with tall trees that towered like ancient guardians, and bushes teeming with colorful flowers, some she had never seen before, with petals that shimmered like stardust.
Naruto led the way through the garden, his steps light and graceful, matching the peaceful atmosphere. He spoke with a soft enthusiasm about the plants around them, his eyes alight with the joy of sharing his passion for gardening. It was a hobby he had cultivated over the years, a way for him to connect with the world in a calm, quiet way that was often in stark contrast to the battles he fought and the chaos he managed.
"I've always loved the way plants grow," Naruto said, his voice calm yet filled with warmth. "It's incredible, really. How something so small and fragile can grow into something so strong and beautiful. It reminds me that even the most difficult times in life can lead to something amazing. Take this tree, for example." He gestured toward a towering oak with leaves that glowed faintly in the fading light. "It started as just a seed, barely noticeable. But look at it now—tall, strong, and full of life."
Donna listened intently, her heart warming at his words. She had always admired his depth, how he could see meaning in even the smallest of things. The way he spoke about plants wasn't just about their physical beauty—it was about their resilience, their ability to grow and thrive no matter the conditions. It was a philosophy that applied to life itself.
"I remember when I first started gardening," Naruto continued, a nostalgic smile on his face. "It was simple at first—just a few plants in the backyard. But it became more than that. Now, I have a garden on the moon, open to the public, and people from all over come to see it." He glanced at Donna, his expression softening. "I know you've been there already, but once I add a few more things, I'll take you there again. I think you'd like it even more."
Donna smiled warmly, her heart fluttering at the thought. She had indeed seen his lunar garden, and it had left an impression on her, the serenity and beauty of it transcending everything she had known about gardens. It was like stepping into a dream. She had no doubt that the next time she visited, it would be even more enchanting.
"I'd love that," she said, her voice gentle. "It sounds like the perfect place for peace of mind."
Naruto chuckled softly, a light, easy sound that made Donna feel at home. "It's a place where I can just relax and think, away from everything. But this place..." He paused, taking in the beauty of the garden around them. "This park is different. It's alive, full of energy. People come here to enjoy nature, and there's something magical about that."
Donna nodded in agreement, her gaze drifting to the vibrant flowers and lush greenery around them. "I can see what you mean. There's something special about it. I don't visit places like this often, but I think I understand now why you love it so much."
They continued to stroll down the winding paths, their conversation drifting to various plants, trees, and the way nature interacted with the world. The rhythm of their steps, the tranquility of the space, and the softness of Naruto's voice made everything feel effortlessly peaceful. Even as they walked in silence for a moment, there was no discomfort. Instead, it was the kind of silence that spoke volumes, filled with shared understanding and contentment.
Eventually, they reached an open space in the park, a beautiful clearing where a band was playing soft music, the melodies carrying in the air. A small dance floor lay before them, inviting couples to join in the rhythm of the music. There was also a quiet café nearby, with tables set up beneath trees that formed a canopy of green, offering shade from the setting sun. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and delicious food wafted through the air, tempting them to stop and enjoy a meal together.
Naruto looked at Donna, his gaze both playful and thoughtful. "What do you think? We could grab something to eat or maybe dance a bit if you're up for it."
Donna's eyes sparkled as she watched the couples twirl on the dance floor, the rhythm of the music calling to her. "I think I'd like that," she said with a smile. "Dancing sounds wonderful."
With a nod, Naruto extended his hand to her once more, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Then let's go. I've never been the best dancer, but I'm sure we'll have fun."
The soft strains of the music swirled around them as Naruto and Donna made their way to the center of the dance floor. The night air was cool, the faint scent of flowers and fresh grass filling the space as the moon hung high above them, casting its silvery light down. Everything seemed to slow, the world outside their little bubble fading into the background. This was their moment, and nothing else seemed to matter.
It was their fifth time dancing together, but this time felt different. There was something about the night, about the connection they shared, that made the experience feel more profound. It wasn't just the rhythm of their steps or the swaying of their bodies in sync. It was the way they moved as if the universe had conspired to bring them together in this moment, the way Naruto's hand rested so confidently on her waist, guiding her with ease.
Naruto had always been a natural when it came to physical movements, his grace and fluidity often seen in his fighting. But there was a softness to his dancing now, an intimacy that made the experience feel entirely new. He was no longer the boisterous, carefree Naruto who was content with just having fun. This was a version of him that was focused entirely on Donna, his gaze locked with hers as they moved in tandem, each step taken with purpose, each beat of the music something shared between them.
Donna, for her part, felt like she was floating. His presence, his energy—it all enveloped her, making everything else in the world feel insignificant. She let herself be led, trusting him completely as they moved together. Her body responded to him effortlessly, like a puppet in his hands, as if their movements were choreographed by some unseen force. Every step, every turn, felt like an extension of their connection. There was a rhythm to their bond, as if they were writing their own song with their bodies.
She'd noticed before that Naruto seemed to enjoy control, not in a domineering way, but in the way he liked to lead, to be the one to shape the moment. There was something endearing about it—how he thrived when he could guide, protect, and care for those around him. It wasn't just about strength or power; it was about the quiet confidence he exuded, the way he made everyone around him feel safe and cherished. Donna felt that now, in the way he held her, the way his gaze never wavered from hers, as if she were the only thing in his world at that moment.
Her heart swelled with affection, and she couldn't help but smile. The world outside of them—full of lights, sounds, and people—seemed distant. In that moment, they were the only two people in existence, spinning under the stars, their connection palpable in every shared movement.
They danced on, the music shifting to a slower, more romantic melody, and the world seemed to hush around them. The crowd had gathered to watch, captivated by the beauty of their dance, but Naruto and Donna were beyond that. They were lost in each other, in the rhythm of the night.
After the dance ended, the applause from the onlookers was brief but heartfelt. Naruto, ever the humble one, gave a small bow before turning his attention back to Donna, his hand still resting at her waist. "That was amazing," he said softly, his voice low and filled with warmth. "You were beautiful out there."
Donna smiled, her cheeks flushed from the dance and the attention they had garnered. "It was you who made it so special," she replied, her voice carrying the affection she felt. "I couldn't have asked for a better partner."
He gave her a grin that melted her heart. "I'm glad you think so," he said, his eyes sparkling. "Now, what do you say we eat? I'm starving after all that dancing."
Donna laughed softly, her heart light. "Sounds perfect."
They made their way to the banquet area, where an array of dishes awaited them. The scent of grilled meats, freshly baked bread, and spiced rice filled the air. Naruto, with his usual enthusiasm, eagerly dug into the feast, picking out different dishes and making playful comments about the flavors. Donna joined him, enjoying the food but even more so the ease with which they shared the moment.
They talked about everything and nothing—about the different flavors on the plate, about their favorite foods, about what they wanted to try next. Naruto even managed to joke about his clumsy attempts at dancing earlier in his life, which had Donna laughing. It was the kind of evening where time seemed to slip away unnoticed, and every moment felt effortless.
The dinner was a celebration in itself, the perfect ending to a day filled with new experiences. But for Donna, it was more than just the food or the dancing—it was the feeling of being seen, of being truly appreciated. Naruto had a way of making everything feel significant, of making her feel like the most important person in the world.
As the night wore on, the gentle hum of the world around them settled into a peaceful quiet. The meal was finished, the last plates cleared away, and yet neither of them felt any hurry to leave. Donna, ever the composed one, sat beside Naruto, her eyes soft and content. The warmth of their shared moments lingered in the air like a comforting breeze. The night had unfolded with ease—no expectations, no pressure—just two people who had found something deeper than casual friendship.
Naruto, ever aware of Donna's subtle expressions, could tell she wasn't ready for the evening to end. There was a quiet yearning in her gaze, one that pulled at his heartstrings. He smiled, reaching out to gently take her hand. "What's on your mind?" he asked softly, his voice low but warm.
Donna glanced at him, a hint of hesitation in her eyes. "I just… I don't want this to end, not yet. I feel like I've waited so long to have a moment like this, and now that it's here, it feels so precious."
Naruto's smile deepened, his heart swelling at her words. There was something undeniably special about this connection between them. He had felt it earlier, during the dance, and now, sitting with her under the stars, he couldn't ignore the shift in his own feelings either. It was a feeling that grew with every passing moment—the tenderness, the understanding, the quiet knowing that they shared something more.
"I understand," he said, his hand tightening slightly around hers, offering both comfort and reassurance. "We don't have to rush anything, Donna. We can stay as long as you need."
Donna's face softened, her gaze steady and grateful. "Thank you," she whispered, leaning slightly against him, the weight of the day finally lifting from her shoulders. There was something about being in Naruto's presence that made everything else fade into the background. The concerns, the doubts, the past—all of it melted away when he was near. And in that quiet, comforting space, she found a kind of peace she hadn't known she was seeking.
Naruto didn't need to say anything else. He simply pulled her closer, his arm wrapping around her as they leaned back into the plush cushions of the seating area. There was no rush, no need for words. He simply allowed her to rest, content in the way her presence calmed him, grounding him in a way few things ever did. And as Donna relaxed against him, his heart beat a little slower, his thoughts clearer.
Donna, feeling the sense of calm, drifted into a peaceful sleep in Naruto's embrace. There was no urgency, no expectation. Just the gentle rhythm of their breathing as they lay together under the stars.
Naruto, too, found himself growing drowsy, the rhythm of Donna's breath soothing him, like a lullaby sung just for him. He closed his eyes, the weight of the day finally catching up to him, but his mind, for once, wasn't racing with thoughts of the future or the battles yet to come. It was here, in this moment, that he felt truly at ease.
There were no words spoken, but Naruto could feel the subtle shift inside himself. His emotions were changing, slowly and steadily, in response to the closeness that had developed between them. The walls he had built up so carefully over the years were not as strong as they once seemed. He didn't need to close himself off anymore, not with Donna by his side.
For the first time in a long time, he allowed himself to feel. And it felt good.
As the night passed, the world outside continued its eternal dance of time, but for Naruto and Donna, in that peaceful embrace, time itself seemed to pause. And neither of them could have asked for anything more.