Random five minute challenge. I wanted to try something in a style I normally wouldn't do, while at the same time summarizing the relationship these two share. I'm not sure I like the result, but whatever. Hopefully someone will get something out of it. Reviews, comments, and criticisms are all welcome.
For Sasuke and Naruto the words, "I love you." have never been necessary. In hindsight it was obvious that those sentiments had always been there, lurking, waiting patiently beneath the surface for a time which never seemed to come.
After the battle with Zabuza, in which their bond first formed, they had both been too young and naive to recognize their new-found feelings for what they really were, much less act upon them.
Later, as time went on and realization began to dawn, it was fear and embarrassment that kept the words at bay. Would the other feel the same way? Would things be able to stay the same? What would their friends all say?
Betrayal loomed next and they inevitably fought, their fists expressing more than words ever could. Yet, when their battle ended they still drifted apart, led astray by foolish pride and circumstance.
Absence makes the heart grow fonder as they say and this case proved no different. Naruto tried to ignore his feelings; Sasuke tried to kill them. Neither was successful and the pair suffered all the more of their denial.
Now fast forward to the present: two eternal friends lay bloodied and dying, their once-bright flames extinguished at each others hands. Their eyes lock and in that instant their souls are laid bare, the cruel revelation that this was meant to be finally made apparent. There will be no happy ending, no peaceful future together, but they can accept that. After everything they have been through, this one, shining moment of understanding will be enough. It has been a long time coming.
"I love you."
"I know."
I leave it up to the reader to decide who said what.