judy: I hope it's worth the wait…kidding. Read please oh and –throws you a complementary muffin-

Disclaimer: Belinda and I do not own Naruto because we pwn!

The Modeling Hell

Chapter 1

I exited the apartment that I shared with Haruno Sakura. Sakura's probably been my best friend since high school, and we also coincidentally attended the same college. She's always wanted to be a doctor, but her family didn't have enough money to pay for all the years of studying, and sadly, her dream went down the drain. I never really thought about what I wanted to be - never. Not even when I was little and when it was Career Day. I just tried to enjoy life as much as I could.

By the way, my name's Tenten. I've lived with my grandmother since forever, but she died near the end of my fourth year of college, and I was forced to skip a little bit since I had to prepare the funeral. I don't have any other living relatives, except maybe my evil aunts, uncles, and cousins. I have brown hair in buns and brown eyes to match. I'm not extremely tall - maybe about 5'6", which is a little taller than Sakura. I'm a pretty lazy, even though I managed to get good enough grades to not get held back. I'm nothing really special at all.

But Sakura really was a lot different from me. She's a neat freak (well, I'm too lazy to clean the apartment), she's nice, she's smart, and she's unique. I totally wish I had pink hair and green eyes. Wouldn't that just be awesome? Anyway, we became roommates, or apartment mates, however strange that may sound.

Both of us just graduated college about a month ago, so it's already around June. The Haruno family gave us some money so we could move out, and since I was orphaned already, I managed to get a little bit of money from my dear grandmother's will after she died. So, we moved out from our old houses, and we're trying our best to find good jobs. Sakura's already working two jobs - part-time waitress and a cashier at the local supermarket. She actually manages to snag some free food for us. Thank god that furniture at the condo we rented was already there.

Today Sakura's going out to buy some groceries. She forced me to buy some clothes today - that girl is just way too nice. Anyway, I don't expect anything new. It's her turn next week. So I bring my wallet in my pocket, no designer handbag like all those stuck-up rich girls. I walked to the mall and entered the busy building - the one that was always busy. I see a lot of girls giggling after getting a disgusting looking pink dress. The ones that are really tight and all.

I bought some khaki capris and a nice light pink T-shirt at one of the stores I passed by. I didn't even bother to look at the name - I honestly don't care what brand it is.

"Oh my god! That girl's so ugly and poor!" I heard a girl yell, pointing at me. I stared at her heavily make-up applied face and then at her almost identical companion.

"Well, all least I don't dress like a slut!" I snapped. I felt like I wanted to bitch slap them. They really don't want to see me angry. They frowned and "hmph"-ed at me. Like I cared.

I managed to exit the mall with a frown on my face, wanting badly to beat the crap out of somebody. Suddenly, this guy comes up to me and smiles really widely. Pearly white teeth. Black, bowl-cut hair. Large, dark eyes. Bushy eyebrows. Bright. Green. Suit.

Okay, I know those whores shouldn't have insulted me because of my clothes.

I entered the supermarket with a specific grocery list, it seems like Tenten and I were running low on the usual. Especially on dumplings, but hey don't look at me it's all on Tenten, by the way don't tell her I said that. Aside from our eating habits, we both go way back to our high school days and even enrolled in college together. Weird how life works out for us, I'm actually quite enjoying living with her since we already feel accustomed to each other, we're just the best of friends.

Well since we are on the subject allow me introduce myself, while I scrounge up a lame excuse why I ended up tardy yesterday to my boss: I'm Haruno Sakura. I've always had a fascination with medicine when I was young, and I was hoping prepare for classes to become an actual doctor, but the budget for those classes went way over my parent's head. Buzz kill for me since they were my only piggy bank, when I lived with them…

Now being separate from my parents I live with Tenten now, I'd say we have our ups and downs, but she's probably the best roommate to cope with. Trust me, we are like aliens when we compare our personalities and hobbies; me, myself went through life with green eyes and pink hair! Pink hair!! I don't mind the eye pigment, but snobby popular girls who 'have' absolute power to lower one's self-esteem ridicule me, badly. Some say shouldn't my eye color be pink, because I have pink hair. All I have to say is WOW.

I personally don't see as a big deal now, since I pretty much lived out my high school era. Tenten's got it easy, way easy. She's pretty in her own style, her hair is gorgeous auburn brunette, but she hardly leaves her hair out of those 'sticky buns', I call them; and she certainly doesn't let little comments pester with her mind. Though I don't envy her because on that…but it's the fact that I'm a inch and 6 centimeters away from her height, that reminds me I should double up on milk…not for calcium, but for pancakes. Yum.

Beside the point, the real difference is, yes I hate to say it, but I'm an organizing nerd. I like to keep things clean, that's what I do…maybe it's bizarre genetics, I'm not sure. The only thing I'm sure to say is that an organizing nerd is very different from health freak. Tenten, um she's not the one to clean, but she can pretty much cook decent things (green eggs and ham), kidding.

Well since it's been just a month when we celebrated our graduation, we go on and become independent, with help from the piggy bank, we were set. Every since our glorious move, we have to live up to the responsibility, that's why I'm been carrying two jobs over my shoulders: a waitress (so rascals can threw food in my hair) and cashier in this lovely place (none where attractive people come to). That's basically it, and Tenten works, but she has off days…so I told her to indulge her with clothes, of course she agrees. I wasn't going to make her stay and mess up the apartment again.

Oh and I successfully made my way to the dairy products: cheeses, yogurt and jackpot milk! I looked through the expired dates, to make they were fresh, and quickly swipe it up in my hands, but I hear someone call my name in a low, bellow voice.

" Haruno…I would like an explanation about your tardiness?" He looked very serious in the face. I felt my face drenched up in sweat. Okay what's a good excuse. My dog died….okay no. I freakin' suck at these things.

I looked up at him, " I had to walk, ran out of gas! Bye!" I rushed through the aisle like a mad woman, good thing I didn't wear heels, and dashed towards the cashier to and waited for the bubble-snapping teen to ring up my items.

" $9.86," She said dully. I dug into my wallet for ten bucks and threw it at her, " Here keep the change!" She tugged the money from my grasp and ripped the receipt slowly, " Here." I snatched out her hands and got out quickly with groceries and receipt. " Score! Haruno for the win!" I settled down a bit and walked along the side of the street, turning the corner, but was stop but a rather handsome guy? He was about 5'9" with stunning blue cerulean eyes and locks of blonde hair, messy, but manageable. A classic black suit and a cheeky smile.

And all I can say is nice orange tie…I wondered if my boss sent a mafia to go after me.

I stared at the guy in front of me. Okay, he had a…dazzling smile. I kept telling myself to look at the bright side of things like my grandmother used to say, and that's what I got.

Anything else?...Man, for an elementary soccer team's assistant coach, I really couldn't compliment people. Wonder why I can do it with those kids. Those little, shitty, annoying, cute, adorable, huggable, nice devils. Okay, that was too contradicting, forget I said it…but I might end up going, "Oh, remember that time when I called those children little, shitty, annoying, cute, adorable, huggable, nice devils?" and you'll just be forced to remember and say, "Yea, I remember that." Anyway...

"Um, excuse me, sir," I said in the most polite voice I could muster. I stared at the guys bug eyes as I continued, "Could you please…um, move? I need to get back home. My turn to cook." I tried to push past him, but his firm hand on my shoulder blade stopped me. My crazy ass reflexes decided to kick in (it was from those childhood kung-fu lessons), and I did a quick kick that should've gone down onto his shoulder. Well, should've, but it didn't. He already blocked and lowered both my foot and his two hands. I frowned and crossed my arms in front of my chest, tapping my foot impatiently.

"What do you want from me?" I snapped, getting annoyed with this guy that was towering over me. God, when did people become skyscrapers? Maybe this guy is like one of those people with that tumor in their brain that makes them grown non-stop?...Or maybe I'm just used to seeing Sakura.

"Well," the man began, "my name is Rock Lee! I work for the Hyuuga Modeling Agency, and we're looking for a new model, since one of ours was fired. I just spotted you, and I thought you wo – "

"Wait a second," I interrupted, taking a deep breath. Lee seemed to be a gentleman, since he actually waited. "You want me to be the new model?" I cried in disbelief.

Lee nodded enthusiastically. "I'm glad you understood so quickly!" he exclaimed. "So, are you willing to take the job?!"

I thought about my salary, which was low compared to what Sakura was getting from those two jobs. Maybe this would be a chance for me to support us more. Then, my mind flickered to the little, shitty, annoying, cute, adorable, huggable, nice devils (I'll stop now) I helped coach. They were really cool kids to hang around, though more of pranksters that used to say I had crap on my head, but I guess I'd miss them a little bit.

And, bam! This would definitely be good! Then maybe I'll be able to send Sakura off to medical school so she can become a doctor! She could finally complete her life-long dream!

A smile crawled onto my previously confused face. "...I'll take it," I replied. Lee smiled at me and gave me a thumbs up. He winked at me, which I tried not to wince at. I kept a wobbly smile on my face.

"But why did you choose me? Of all the girls in the mall that were dying to be models, girls that diet all the time, girls that have the 'perfect' figure, girls that had these dreams, why did you choose me over all of them?" I asked. I mean, I saw a lot of girls with good taste in clothes and a body that was shaped perfectly. Even I thought so. And no, I don't mean those sluts. Blech.

"That's easy," Lee replied, grinning happily. "Your beauty was natural. Many girls now-a-days where heavy amounts of makeup, even though it might not help them look better – sometimes it's worse. They don't let their youth show and shine purely! I'm sure they'd all look nicer with less or maybe no make-up! You're truly a lotus blossom of youth!" I felt a blush creeping up my cheeks. Man, this guy was extremely flattering as well.

"Thanks," I said. "I mean, for letting me have a chance to be interviewed...Who did you say you worked for again?" You see, I wasn't exactly listening, and I only caught the words 'new', 'model', and 'you'.

"Oh! The Hyuuga Modeling Agency!" Lee answered. My eyes widened and I tried to take deep breaths.

"T-t-the Hyuuga Modeling Agency?! What I'm being hired by them?! I can't believe this!" I cried. The Hyuuga Modeling Agency was one of the top modeling agencies in all of Japan. I even knew about, and I wasn't all that into fashion. I think I saw one of their magazines on Sakura's desk, piled neatly in the corner with a stack of papers, and I really have to say that I liked the design. I think it was the winter edition, and the cover looked very fluffy and soft.

"Are you okay with that?" Lee's voice broke through my reverie. His eyes showed some sadness, but his smile was genuine. "You don't have to go."

"No, no, I'll go," I said, not wanting to lose the chance. "I was just a little surprised. I mean, that's like…big time modeling."

"Yes, it is," Lee replied, grinning widely again. I was getting a little bit freaked out by his everlasting smile, more so with his thick eyebrows, but he seemed like a nice guy. He began to rant excitedly. "Neji-kun will be so happy that I found a model that will help us against Uchiha-kun!"

I almost thought he was gay – he added that more affectionate suffix 'kun' to the guys' names. That took me back to when I just got the job of the assistant coach. It was probably my third day, and I was too busy adjusting to my work, so I didn't get to know the kids yet. It was raining at the end of practice, and everyone left except two boys, one about twelve, the other maybe nine. They were hugging, which kinda freaked me out. I mean, they had already swung that way?

I later found out that the kids were actually brothers, and they had forgotten their coats that day, so they wanted to keep each other warm. Man, I felt guilty after that.

So I guess I shouldn't misjudge this guy. He pulled out a name card from his wallet, which I took the time to actually read.

Rock Lee

Assistant Executive Officer, Hyuuga Modeling Agency

3-1 Fire Dori

Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-8010

"Well, what time should I swing by?" I asked, pocketing the elegant card.

"Around eight thirty," Lee replied. "I'll tell somebody to bring you up for your interview with Kurenai-san. If you pass, she'll be your trainer."

"Alright. Arigato," I said, bowing. The place wasn't too far, and anyway, there was always the easily accessed Shibuya station. No prob for Tenten-chan! Lee nodded before turning his green clad body around and strolling off.

I rushed back home, noting that I was extremely late and lunch would be late as well, but I was extremely happy that I was going to help Sakura so much. She deserved everything in the world, that sweet girl.

I clumsily took out my keys and unlocked the door to find Sakura glancing at the piece of paper, probably the receipt. She hid it behind her back and smiled. She never liked showing me the prices, so I pretended not to notice. She began to unpack the groceries.

"Sakura!" I called. "I got a better job." Sakura grinned.

"What a coincidence..." She put some produce the counter and wiped her forehead, " I kinda snagged a job too…sort of."

" Weird," I replied while grabbing some groceries to prepared for some food, " So…how was the trip to market good, no?" I could feel her tense up a bit, but I just ignored it and started sorting out what to make.

" Shit…well I hope it's enough. I just made a run-in with my boss again…for the second time in week," She chuckled nervously and checked the messages off our home phone and stacking the junk mail in the corner(it's her daily routine). " Nah it's okay I can manage…and again with the boss?! What's your excuse? He'll probably let you off the hook, I mean he does have anybody else." I honestly remarked.

" I ran out of gas….yeah, I guess he'll forgive and forgot…he's sort of an ass, unless he gets he's daily morning joe, but that's only on Tuesdays. Man I need a raise," Sakura sighed and placed her head on the granite counter, as I peeled away some potato skins off some potatoes in the kitchen. I looked at the ingredients she got milk, about a pound of potatoes, cheese, wonton wrappers, gum, and pineapple? I could make potato casserole then. " Hey Sakura could you help boil these potatoes…I need to shred some of this cheese I guess…"

Sakura shuffled towards the cabinets, quickly grabbing a colander from the second bottom cabinet to the left. Yeah, that's how organized she was, she didn't have to think about it that's why I'm afraid of touching the cabinets.

Sakura's POV…

After my little 'episode' I expressed, I fetched the colander, filling it with the starchy veggies, and heaved up the potatoes up to the counter, also quickly grabbing a separate pot; filling it up with lukewarm water about 2/3 way. I'm OCD about specific details. It gets pretty scary to an extended point. Trust me Tenten had trouble getting use to, but I just love her for that. I cranked up the stove up on high heat and watched it settle in the pot.

Tenten started grated the cheese, which frankly I fussed out to go it probably got into my basket. Yay for abrupt run-ins with your evil little boss! Making my way to my point…is whether or not to tell Tenten about my job. We are like the greatest friends, we have the same month for our birthdays, we're almost the same height… (cough a inch and 6cm people!) OKAY so we're wacky sometimes, but we've known each other for some time. Look's like potatoes are done…must help with mittens of course, I don't know how many times Tenten bicker about safety. Sheez.

She quickly poured the starch water and placed them in the colander to cool. She then got some fancy-smanchy cassorle dish out of the pantry, I wondered if I didn't clean up things that well.

" How did you find a cassrole dish? In the pantry?" I asked questionably.

" It's my grandmother's…she made the best cassrole dishes in here. I store it in the pantry because I didn't want to search and make a mess finding it," Tenten smiled and shrugged, then got back to cooking. Maybe I just got a little crazed there, all I have to say is how sweet…no wonder Tenten's good at whipping up bake goods. As soon as I started blabbing off, Tenten was already done and had the cassarole in the oven in a matter of minutes. She should go on Iron Chef or something…I would probably burn my finger without help from her.

Tenten just quickly washed up and pulled a mug and powdered lemonade, " Want some? It's your favorite pink lemonade…" she waved the box in my face. I was in a trance, we always had lemonade around, what can I say it's so refreshing; I could also make freeze pops with lemonade….my mom would be so proud of me. She fixed it up with tap water and we settled down in our little kitchen table seated for two. I think we need a bigger kitchen.

Tenten tapped the table lightly and grinned, " What was that job offer you got, must benefit you since supermarket grump is coming after you."

" Uhh…" I started to think. Okay let's here my possible reactions from Tenten: Number one: The happy, excited expression.

" I was offered a job at modeling agency…" I said straight forward, taking a glup from my drink.

" Wow, that's awesome…you are a shoe in for modeling. Heck look at you," She hugs me tight and I return it.

Number two: Disappointment.

" Well I just randomly got a job at a modeling agency and I'm starting as soon as they call me!" I exclaimed.

" Oh well…don't you think model's are a little high-maintenance. It's great and all, but I'm just worried it'll explode in your face soon." Tenten leaned back in the chair and said nothing else.

Hm…I don't think I'm prepared for either one, and she has a job offer too. Wait is she plan on telling me too? Maybe I'm just a little anxious about the job offer. Back to Tenten, she's staring at me weird.

Tenten smiled, " You were saying?"

I sort of lingered on words and all the while the casserole was all done. She got up and let the dish cool for a minute and ran around looking for plates.

" Plates?" Tenten asked looking at the bottom cabinets. " It's on the top to your right….the last one." I said as if it was nothing. She grabbed two and two forks for us to begin eating. And wow it smells so delicious…cheesy goodness. I parted a medium-sized piece and popped it in my mouth. Yum, creamy and cheesy. This girl is awesome, where would I be if I didn't have her as a friend? Probably out by the next McDonald's. Ayee.

We kept pretty quiet for the rest of lunchtime, I guess we were both avoiding the situation. Maybe I should just ask huh? Maybe sure.

" Hey Tenten what's your job offer? Are you excited at it?" I asked almost curious to her answer.

" Oh it's nothing special," She took another bite. I just blinked. Okay no more screwing around….

" Tenten, well my job is…I don't what to actually think, but it's…" I'm dead here, and like hanging on to my every word. I think I'm sweating cheese here, " umm actually nothing. Forgot about it…I might not even take though."

Tenten nodded and understood, " Okay well I'm going to wash up and take a quick nap."

" Alright, I'll clean up for you," I stacked the dishes and piled up the forks to sink then took the glasses and placed in there too. I started hand washing them and wondering about that orange tie man.

So when am I going to tell Tenten?

belinda: Hope you guys liked it, if we -hopefully- had any readers! My thanks to princessa-luv for already favoriting this account and our individual ones. I hope that the next chapter will come soon!

judy: Ta-dah! Whoo enjoy and sorry for the wait also what Belinda said….xD PLH kids.

R&R or whatever you guys do these days…psh.