Ninjago: One Shots book 2

Food Festival | Kai & Jaya

The streets of Ninjago City were alive with vibrant colors and the aroma of sizzling street food. Kai, his younger sister Nya, his best friend Cole, and Kai's closest companion, Lloyd, had gathered at the annual street food festival. The night was filled with promise, a chance to enjoy exotic dishes, groove to live music, and bask in each other's company.

As the friends strolled past stalls offering tantalizing dishes from all corners of the world, their animated chatter filled the air. They reminisced about their countless adventures, discussed ninja techniques, and exchanged humorous banter, but Nya couldn't help but feel left out. The boys often ventured into topics she couldn't relate to, making her feel like an outsider among her closest friends.

A shadow of uncertainty hung over Nya as she walked alongside her boisterous companions. She clutched her paper plate of spicy noodles, her appetite diminished by the growing discomfort. Unable to suppress the feeling of being unwanted, she decided it was time to step away from the group.

Nya finally mustered the courage to speak up, though she chose her words carefully. "I'm going to grab something to drink. I'll be right back." She offered a forced smile and then left the group behind, her heart heavy with unspoken emotions.

She approached a vibrant stall selling an array of refreshing beverages. She ordered a cool, fruity concoction and paid for it, taking a few moments to regain her composure. As much as she'd rather not, she knew she had to rejoin the group.

Kai, her ever-watchful brother, couldn't help but notice her distant behavior. He discreetly left the group for a moment and caught up with Nya as she was making her way back. He gently put a hand on her shoulder, concern in his eyes.

"Hey, Nya," he began quietly, "I noticed you seem a bit off. Is everything okay?"

Nya hesitated, not wanting the others to catch on to her inner turmoil. She put on a brave smile and replied, "Oh, it's nothing. Just a little tired, that's all. I'm fine, really."

Kai studied her for a moment, not entirely convinced, but he respected her response and let her rejoin the group. They continued to enjoy the festivities, but the unease between Nya and her friends lingered just beneath the surface.

The group made their way to a vibrant stage where a live show was in full swing. The music was lively, and a kaleidoscope of colors filled the air as acrobats and performers dazzled the audience.

Nya stood with her back to the stage, still feeling somewhat disconnected from the group. The bright lights and the large crowd overwhelmed her. She longed for a moment of solitude, a chance to escape the bustling festival.

While she watched the show, her mind wandered. She couldn't quite put her finger on what she wanted, but one thing was clear – she needed a break from the sensory overload. Deep down, she wished for a quiet moment, maybe alone or perhaps with Kai, her brother who had always been there for her. But for now, she stayed with the group, silently lost in her thoughts as the vibrant spectacle continued.

As the live show came to a close, the group gathered, their faces illuminated by the fading stage lights. Nya still seemed distant, and Kai couldn't shake his worry for her. He gazed at her silently, his expression a mix of concern and understanding.

When they were done with the food, Cole spoke up, "So, what do we do now?" He looked around at the bustling festival, but the enthusiasm that had filled the air earlier had somewhat faded.

Kai, feeling Nya's need for some respite, suggested, "How about we head back home? There doesn't seem to be much left to do here."

The others nodded in agreement, understanding that sometimes, the best way to enjoy each other's company was in a quieter setting. They left the festival and made their way to the dark parking lot. Nya watched the happy festival-goers from the shadows, feeling both disconnected from and envious of their joy.

Once they returned to the monastery, Kai and the rest of the group gathered to decide what to do next, while Nya kept to herself, still caught in her thoughts.

Kai's worry deepened as he glanced at his sister. He had sensed her unease throughout the evening and now, with her departure, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern. "Alright, Nya. Take care of Jay. Let us know if he needs anything," he replied, his voice tinged with a mix of worry and understanding.

Nya offered a small smile and a nod before heading out to be with Jay. As she left, the group exchanged knowing glances, recognizing that there was more to the situation than met the eye.

She made her way through the hallway, her emotions overwhelming her, making it difficult to breathe. Her heart felt heavy, and her throat tightened with unspoken words. She needed Jay, her safe haven, to release all the emotions that had built up throughout the evening.

She knocked gently on Jay's door and entered. He was sitting on his bed, engrossed in a game on his Switch, and the familiar sounds of a Pokémon game filled the room. Jay looked up as she entered, concern etching his features.

He noticed Nya's trembling hand and immediately set his game aside, moving closer to her. "Nya, what's wrong?" Jay asked, his voice filled with worry, as he reached out to gently take her hand in his.

Nya carefully sat down on the edge of Jay's bed, being mindful not to hurt his injured foot. She held Mister Cuddlywomp, Jay's favorite plushy, on her lap, clutching it for comfort as she began to speak.

As she cuddled the stuffed animal, Nya poured out her feelings to Jay, recounting the evening and how it had made her feel. She described the sensory overload, the feeling of being disconnected from the group, and the growing unease she couldn't shake. Her voice trembled as she confessed, "I just felt so out of place. It was like I didn't belong with them. Without you I just don't feel connected to them"

Jay listened attentively, his expression filled with empathy and understanding. He gently placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder and said, "I'm sorry you had a tough time, Nya. You're never alone in this, and you always belong with us, no matter what. I'm here for you."

Nya found comfort in his words and the warmth of his presence, feeling a sense of relief as she shared her emotions with him.

Jay, ever the caring boyfriend, gently pulled Nya into a warm embrace, allowing her to lay beside him with her head resting on his chest. They cuddled close, finding solace in each other's presence.

Nya whispered a heartfelt, "Thank you. You always know how to make me feel better."

Jay, with his characteristic sense of humor, couldn't resist a playful remark. "Well, it's all part of my ninja training, you know, specializing in cuddle techniques and emotional support."

Nya couldn't help but laugh at his lighthearted response, feeling grateful for his unwavering love and support. In Jay's arms, she found the comfort and reassurance she had been seeking throughout the evening.

Kai knocked on the door, not expecting to find Nya and Jay in such a close and intimate position. When he opened the door and saw them on the bed, he blushed, feeling a bit uneasy about the situation.

Clearing his throat, Kai stammered, "I...uhm...wanted to ask if I could borrow 'Fists 2 Fight 2'." He couldn't help but glance away, trying to give them some privacy.

Jay, always the accommodating friend, replied with a smile, "Of course, Kai. It's on the shelf. Help yourself." Kai quickly grabbed the game and left the room in a bit of a hurry, almost slamming the door behind him. He couldn't get out of there fast enough.

Jay and Nya looked at each other, and then burst into laughter at Kai's awkward exit. It was a moment of shared amusement in the midst of their earlier serious conversation.

Nya grinned at Jay, mischief dancing in her eyes. "You know, I kinda love making my brother squirm like that. It's a guilty pleasure," she admitted with a mischievous giggle.

Jay joined in her laughter, nodding with a playful grin. "It's all in good fun, and it's nice to have these moments, especially when things get tough. And it keeps things interesting. Plus, I think he can use a little teasing now and then. Your brother's reactions are always priceless." They shared a light-hearted chuckle, appreciating the simple joys of life.

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