As the sunlight squeezed through the spaces between the loose blinds, Sasuke found himself squinting as his groggy eyes forced themselves to open in the wake of the early sunrise. Eyeing the tuft of blonde hair that is splayed out on his chest, tickling his nose ever so slightly, Sasuke sighed to himself, letting the smallest of smiles grace the corner of his pursed lips. Looking around and taking in his surroundings, Sasuke internally face-palmed as he had forgotten he never made it back to the Uchiha compound last night. Swallowing rather harshly, Sasuke tried to quell is growling stomach, thanks to the sleeping usuratonkachi currently only harboring instant ramen in his pantry, breakfast would be forfeit.
Sasuke had been back in Konoha a total of three months, and it still amazes him every morning, that this is his life now. With a precautionary seal keeping his Mangekyou Sharingan inactive, Sasuke received full amnesty, granted that he rightfully restore the Uchiha clan and name.
Shaking his head free of such worrisome thoughts at this ungodly hour, Sasuke stealthily slid out from underneath his boyfriend, try as he might, not to awaken the slumbering dobe. This morning proving particularly difficult due to the sore backside the drunken Uzumaki had left him with. Usually on mornings such as these, they wake together and head to the fields for early training, but today, Sasuke has made it a point to leave first… again.
Standing still beneath the spray as the nuclear hot water cascaded around his troubled face, Sasuke lowered his head in thought. "Fuck" He mouthed under his breath as the hot water started to cool all too soon for his own liking. If Naruto had just listened to him last night, he would be waking up in his own bed, in his own house, and he would be content in his own boiling hot shower, who's water would not run cold after three or four minutes. Fearing another breakout argument, Sasuke chose to bite the bullet and just sleep at Naruto's last night, knowing that he didn't have the strength for another fight in which he tries to convince the Uzumaki of the benefits of living in your own house versus a shoebox apartment with limited amenities. In the few short months that they had been together, Sasuke only remembered Naruto coming by the compound once, and his stay was short-lived to say the least, leaving almost as soon as he got there. But for some unspoken reason, he could tell Naruto just hated being at his place all together. The Uchiha hadn't the slightest inklings of why. But lately the Uzumaki had been acting quite peculiar, Sasuke didn't really know where his head was anyway, but just the same, the fastidious Uchiha made a mental note of it as he towel dried the dripping ends of his wet hair. Scowl in place as he winced at the clock and gave his head a final tousle… he was going to be late, he needed to hurry.
As he quickly dressed and tip toed towards the front door, he looked toward the bedroom, his gaze falling over the snoring, bare-assed form of his lover. As a small smile twitched at the corner of his mouth, he was reminded of his pressing agenda, his face now riddled with his reluctance and anxiety. Quickly turning away and closing the door behind him, Sasuke flash stepped up to the roof tops as he made his way out to the training grounds, where hopefully, Sakura would be waiting for him. There were some more important matters in which they must discuss…in private.
Startled awake as he reached for a warm body to comfort and felt nothing but the wrinkling plateau of cold sheets beneath his searching fingers, Naruto's shrill cry filled the room as he checked the clock. "TEMEEEEEEE!"
Shooting up and out of bed, only to trip himself on the sheets coiled around his feet, Naruto face planted onto the hardwood floors of his apartment, his head still spinning from their night of drinking. Cursing under his breath, he wasted no more time as he snatched up pieces of his discarded wardrobe, throwing on his pants and jacket, clearing the room in under a minute as he took off for the rooftops, his feet not nearly moving as fast as he would like, no doubt the effects of the alcohol still lingering in his system. Flying across the buildings, barely alive enough to keep his slippery footing, Naruto seethed at the thought of Sasuke bailing on him so early in the morning… again. It was the third time in the last week or so that Sasuke had slipped out, leaving Naruto at the mercy of an alarm clock that he wasn't sure worked anymore. As his head wasted no time in pounding due to the bright sun pulsing down around him, all Naruto could do was hope that his teammates were still training when he arrived, he didn't even want to think about what Kakashi-sensei would do to him if he was late again.
Shuddering at the thought, Naruto stumbled down the last few tree branches, making his clumsy entrance to the training grounds, but his teammates were no where to be found…he had missed practice. Doubling over, panting profusely as he steadied his hands on his knees, Naruto looked around as he tried catching his breath. The day had just begun and already he was exhausted…and thirsty…and frickin starving. Scratching his head and kicking dirt in exasperation, the blonde turned quickly on his heel and made his way back into town, his stomach protesting his lack of food, driving him to the rooftops once more, in search of sustenance. Hopefully the rest of Team 7 would be found at his favorite ramen stand, so he could grovel for Kakashi to spare his life, and maybe grill Sasuke for some much needed answers. Really, just what was up with him lately? the blonde thought as he tried to remember what happened last night, only to have bits and pieces come in and out of focus all too quickly for his feeble, hungover mind to interpret clearly. At this, he rolled his eyes and scoffed to himself at the thought of trying to understand the Uchiha, laughing a bit as he decided it could not be done.
Blazing through town, and looking down at the bustling street shops searching for a few familiar faces, a shock of blonde and purple caught his eye. Perfect, he thought jumping down to the entrance of the flower shop, before flashing his usual toothy grin and offering a friendly wave to the Yamanaka currently snipping flower stems for the display out front.
"What did you do this time, Uzumaki?" Ino questioned bluntly, a sly twinkle in her eye.
"I…err…what? What are you talking 'bout?" Naruto chortled half innocently.
"Well…history shows that you only come and talk to me if you've pissed someone off…flowers are the currency of apologies, you know~"
"Um…yeah, about that…have you seen Sakura-chan or Sasuke around? We were supposed to train this morning, but…"
"Baaaaaaka. You do realize it's lunchtime now, right?" Ino teased, raising her eyebrow sarcastically at his expense.
"Yeah, yeah…I get it. Thanks for your help." Naruto spat sourly as he turned to walk away.
"Hey, 'Mr. Attitude'…cool it, okay? I was only kidding…and yes, I did see them today…I've actually been seeing a lot of them lately."
Snapping back around to face her, Naruto looked at Ino curiously, his brow creased in confusion as his eyes narrowed, "What do you mean by lately?"
"Oh…you know, this last week or so, their morning ritual seems to be walking around together. Sometimes I even see them in the library together…they seem to be getting along really well these days, don't you think?"
"Well…what do they talk about?! Err…I mean, do you know what's going on?" Naruto questioned, trying to look unconcerned, but failing miserably in his fake, catalogue pose of a lying stance.
"Why so interested, huh? Could it be that you've forgotten about his ultimatum and its pending deadline?"
At her words, Naruto's face twisted in painful remembrance. For he knew all too well of the ultimatum that was placed on Sasuke the moment he was allowed to step foot back into Konoha. For it was the same reason they had been at odds for the last two weeks. Granted fighting was something that he and Sasuke should be plenty familiar with, but over the progression of their relationship since his return, the fighting ceased and they each let go of their fears and inhibitions and gave way to the rush of emotions that swiftly swept them off their feet. But with such an ultimatum placed upon your shoulders, the weight was bound to start showing soon enough. And before they knew it, fighting was all they did anymore.
Seeing Sasuke confused and conflicted again, only worried Naruto more. Deep down, Naruto knew the end was coming, he could see Sasuke slipping back into the darkness, it was written all over his face and laced in every word that left his mouth. He knew he could never give Sasuke what he wanted most…heirs…clan members…little baby Uchihas. As much as he loved Sasuke, Naruto knew he could no longer keep him from fulfilling his promise and dream, so Naruto tried to let him go…he tried. But Sasuke being more stubborn than anyone could ever imagine, pulled Naruto back in promising loop holes and red tape short cuts…he knew Sasuke loved him, but he just wished he would be more honest with himself. Couldn't he see that he was trying to offer a clean break? Couldn't he see that he was only trying to make everything easier? Couldn't he see that even though this was killing him, he would rather see Sasuke happy and alive than outcasted again…or worse?
"EARTH TO NARUTO!" Ino's voice bellowed as she snapped her fingers in front of his sullen, glazed over face.
"Oh, uh…gomen Ino-chan" Naruto stated flatly, trying not to let his thoughts show on his face, as he snapped out of his internal monologue.
"Geeze, what's with everybody lately?! First Shikamaru, now you, and I don't even want to know about whatever is going on with Sakura and Sasu-"
"Wait…what about Shikamaru?" Naruto questioned, his voice urgent and demanding.
Rolling her eyes as she cocked her head to the side, Ino glared at the Uzumaki with limited enthusiasm. "You mean to tell me one of your oldest friends never comes around anymore, and you just don't notice or care enough to inquire about the situation?"
Digesting her every word, Naruto's mind flashed with thoughts and memories of Shikamaru, striking a tender chord deep within his chest. Having zoned out again, Naruto stared off into space, completely unaware of the increasingly irritated blonde standing before him. Her fragile ego having been slightly offended by his ignorance, Ino had no qualms about getting his attention any way she could. As she sprayed Naruto's worrisome face with the garden hose, she stepped closer, until her angry pout was hovering just inches away from his confused, wide-eyed expression.
"Now listen here Uzumaki! Shikamaru has been extremely distant and uncharacteristically quiet these past few months…no one has seen him recently, and he's constantly signing up for dangerous away missions…you are one of his closest friends, surely you must know something about the reasons behind his evasiveness" Ino accused, poking her bony index finger into the meat of Naruto's jacketed chest.
As she spoke, her words slowly drifting into the background, Naruto could only think of the last time he and Shikamaru parted ways, it was the morning after that cold winter night they spent together on their way back from an away mission. They had spent three long and weary days tracking an heirloom thief through The Hidden Snow village, and with the gold statue in tow, they booked it back towards warmer climates, but not before running into an old friend. It was on that day, they had the misfortune of running into a certain remaining Uchiha who was running from his own problems. His body bloodied and beaten, his tired face remaining emotionless, Sasuke stood before them, trying to catch his breath as he cautiously returning their gazes. But just before he disappeared right before their eyes in a poof of smoke, Naruto could swear he saw the Uchiha grin.
"Sasu-ke…" Naruto muttered almost inaudibly as his knees fell to the ground, his eyes fixated to the set of foot prints left in the snow.
The concerned Nara glanced over at Naruto, his eyes warming as soon as he saw the hurt expression Naruto was now wearing. He innocently chuckled to himself at the fickleness of his friend, one minute he was giddy and going on about how good a warm bowl of Ichiraku's ramen would be at the moment, and the next he was sulking on the ground, letting his inner demons toy with him as he relived his unfortunate memories all over again. Shikamaru could stand it no longer, this had to stop. He cared for Naruto, somedays he would even go as far as saying he loved the idiot, but he knew deep down that Naruto and his aching heart, belonged to someone else. Even though the 'someone else' was currently a rogue, S-level criminal, he still acknowledged his importance to the blonde, but it didn't mean he had to like the guy. Truth be told, Shikamaru loathed Sasuke to his core. Not that he needed any, but there were a number of reasons to not like the guy, but the biggest problem he had with Sasuke, was that he always left. Sick of watching Naruto suffer, and his words never quite reaching him, Shikamaru kneeled down and wrapped his arms around his sullen frame as he embraced Naruto wordlessly, who was still reeling over his emotions in the snow.
Deciding that the long haul home would be best if left till morning after their recent encounter, they quickly set up camp and started a fire. After a somber and wordless dinner, they both retired to the tent, seeking shelter from the cold, the snow had stopped falling, but the wind still howled as it zipped up and over their tent, shaking the roof and walls with each gust. As they both lay side by side on their backs, Naruto was lost inside his own thoughts, his mind replaying those few surprising seconds. As the tears began to well up and stream down over his lids, Naruto rolled over, away from Shikamaru, to stifle his cries as he silently wept into his pillow.
Currently hypothesizing over which method would be most efficient in ensuring the sadistic Uchiha's demise, Shikamaru lay awake and lost in thought. Just as he was about to nod off, he heard the tiniest of sniffles, turning over to face the huddled blonde's form, he noticed Naruto shivering. As troublesome as it was, Shikamaru rolled over and slung his arm over Naruto's waist, and pulled him against the curve of his body. Shocked by their sudden closeness, Naruto let a gasp escape as he hurried to dry his eyes in hopes of hiding his emotional vulnerability. As he dried his tears, Shikamaru grabbed Naruto's hand, forcing it away from his face as he interlocked their fingers, "Go ahead, you can cry…you don't have to pretend with me."
The Nara's words proving to be his undoing, Naruto's bottom lip began to quiver as he felt all the sadness and loneliness hit him right in the gut all over again. As the tears fell, Shikamaru held Naruto tightly against his body, his arms wrapped around the Uzumaki securely, his nose caressing the back of the blonde's neck in between featherlight kisses. Shikamaru knew this was a bad idea, but he just couldn't help himself, Naruto needed him, and it surprised the Nara to no end just how quick he was to offer his own assistance. Soon, Shikamaru found his mind clouded as he buried his face in Naruto's neck, kissing and licking the delicate skin, hoping to placate his worrisome mind. Lost in the moment, Shikamaru didn't even notice he had begun grinding up against his friend in the most delicious of ways until Naruto released a breathy, heady moan.
As soon as the sound left his mouth, Naruto blushed a million shades of red, his face growing warm despite the snowy tundra of their surroundings. Shamefully biting his bottom lip, the blonde slowly turned and cautiously faced his caressing companion, their eyes meeting and keeping each other's gazes, just long enough to offer a silent answer to each other's lingering question. As lips collided, the two were all hands, teeth, and tongues, as they gave way to their urges. Shikamaru quickly taking the initiative as he rolled over on top of Naruto, sliding his leg between Naruto's as they continued to grind against each other. Smiling warmly down at Naruto, Shikamaru rested himself on his elbows as he wiped away the remaining tear stains on the whiskered cheeks.
"I know I'm not him. But I'm so tired of seeing you unhappy, won't you let me try to make you happy…if even for tonight?" Shikamaru questioned cautiously.
"Shika…" Naruto panted through watery half-lidded eyes, his answer evident in the blush he was currently sporting.
Grinding up against him once more, Shikamaru groaned as their erections pressed against each other. The tension and enticing friction proving to be too much, Naruto moaned out once more, filling the tent with honest sounds of appreciation. Deep down, Naruto knew that while his body may be reacting to Shikamaru, his mind was still filled with thoughts of someone else. This is no good, I cannot keep torturing myself with what if's and promises of happy endings. He. Is. Not. Coming. Back. He. Does. Not. Love. You. You. Are. Nothing. To. Him.
Snapping his eyes shut and turning his head to the side, Naruto was shamed by the road his thoughts were currently traveling. He was disgusted by the level of emotional dependence he had acquired in his search to find his reticent friend. Slowly where he laid, his eyes reopened, stairing blankly at the roof of the tent as Shikamaru kissed and licked his way down Naruto's chest, pushing his shirt up so that his lithe tongue could explore and taste. As Shikamaru's tongue flicked across Naruto's nipple, he could feel the blonde tensing under him as he released a choppy breath the Nara was unaware he was holding. His warm tongue circled around and around, as Shikamaru's teeth found the now perky bud, giving it a nip and a nibble, all the while watching Naruto closely with a heated gaze as he watched the Uzumaki struggle with his own resolve. Fearing an objection to his ministrations, Shikamaru kissed his way back up his friend's chest and neck, growling out Naruto's name into his ear before claiming his lips once again.
He had to admit it, the Nara was offering a delicious distraction, with his experienced tone, he obviously knew what he was doing, and Naruto had half the mind to lay back and let it happen, allowing himself to slip back into his own thoughts. I need this. I need to let him go. I need to move on. I need to forget. Please help me forget. If this can distract me, if even for a few moments of pure, unadulterated pleasure…then this is what I need.
Breaking the kiss, Shikamaru busied his hurried hands with releasing his pressing erection. As the Nara unsheathed himself, he groaned as the tip teased against Naruto. Soon, Shikamaru had found himself grinding up against the blonde, kissing him hungrily as he ripped off the other's pants, quick to burry his leaking cock into the warmth of Naruto's awaiting ass. As he thrusted into the Uzumaki, Shikamaru gritted his teeth at the intense tightness of his friend, inhaling sharply as he adjusted to the clenching sensation. Looking down at the pathetic face Naruto was making, the Nara winced in guilt as he instantly figured out the cause. Using his free hand, Shikamaru covered up the Uzumaki's saddened eyes as he began thrusting deep inside him, as if to erase all the sadness that was eating away at the blonde.
"I'm sorry, Naruto. Just pretend I'm him" the heaving Nara whispered. He could feel the palm of his hand become wet as he felt the Uzumaki crying. But whether he was crying from the pain, or crying because of Sasuke…he'd never know. But through the bittersweet connection, Shikamaru could feel Naruto loosening up, as his body gave way, submitting to the pleasure they both discovered in the moment.
Naruto moaned and cried out as he felt Shikamaru pounding into him relentlessly. Over and over he drove into him, and as the pain subsided, Naruto's stomach grew ill as he soon found himself so aroused, the Nara's aggressive assault, somewhat soothing and overbearingly difficult to ignore. Naruto was sure he was trying to prove a point, but one he wasn't willing to entertain at the moment, and with his eyes covered up, it wasn't too difficult to pretend that the man who was currently enjoying his body was in fact whom he desired…Sasuke.
With his mind snowballing through images of the Uchiha, and his body remembering each of his fantasies, Naruto's back arched as he gripped at Shikamaru's flak jacket as his body tensed, every muscle in his body clenching as he came in a shuddering blaze of white. For just a split second, the dark hair that covered the blonde's face offered a glimpse of what it would be like with Sasuke, and with that, Naruto let himself go, clinging onto him as he wrapped his arms around the Nara's neck as they came together. Riding out the wave of arousal that had just claimed both their bodies, Naruto and Shikamaru remained in each other's arms, both too scared to face reality at the moment. Sharing a few panting breaths, Nara steadied himself with his arms over the Uzumaki, offering a warm and reassuring smile as he looked at the blank, but calm face of the blonde. As he kissed Naruto's forehead, he rolled over onto his side, pulling the Uzumaki's back against his heaving chest.
"I just wanted you to forget. I'm sorry, Naruto…please don't hate me."
Naruto would spend the next few weeks replaying that line over and over in his mind, the Nara's words lingering for some reason. But when Sasuke had returned to the village, Naruto's mind hit the pause button, never recalling those words ever again. Or so he thought. Hearing Ino get concerned over Shikamaru had triggered his mind. He couldn't believe it, had Sasuke completely erased that night from his mind? Did he forget about Shikamaru completely?
They only talked once after returning from the mission, but Naruto could only remember Shikamaru acting as if nothing had ever happened, going on and on about Kurenai and the baby, and how "tiresome" watching a toddler was. The Nara had acted so cool about everything, he simply waved him off and told the blonde to not worry about a thing. It was pure coincidence that they had bumped into each other at the grocery store, but Naruto some how felt that maybe there was something more behind Shikamaru, that night in the tent still occupying his mind, leaving the Uzumaki both curious and hopeful. To hear that Shikamaru and Kurenai had grown closer was somewhat of a shock, maybe the Nara really did like women. It didn't really surprise him though, after Asuma sensei's death, Shikamaru started helping Kurenai, a lot. Always running errands, cleaning, and helping out any way he could. Naruto always thought it strange that someone so selfish and lazy would ever be that willing to go out of their way to help someone without getting anything in return.
But having clarified his take on the matter, Shikamaru made it abundantly clear that he was "just being nice" and that he simply felt sorry for Naruto. Having been slightly burned by his words and nonchalant attitude, the Uzumaki decided to carry on, trying his best to put that one night out of his mind, the sooner he forgot about that pity party, the better. Besides, by the looks of it, Shikamaru was getting serious with Kurenai, what chance did he really stand now?
After that, Naruto never ran into Shikamaru again. But as the next few months proved overwhelming and all too eventful, that melancholy was swallowed by the Uchiha as he made his return back to Konoha. It was the day he got his wish, the day his life actually started. Naruto could finally be with Sasuke, and the teme had actually let him. Not once did he think things would sour to the point they had now. Not once did he ever think things would go back to the way they were before…
"-RUTO…NA-RU-TO!"
At hearing his name, Naruto was violently ripped away from his own mind once again, as Ino sent him tumbling backwards with a rather strong right hook. Coughing and sputtering, he spat blood out onto the dirty street, where he lay wincing in pain as he rubbed his busted lip.
"Hear I am, trying to help you out, and you look like you couldn't care any less! BAAAAKA!" Ino spout, now standing over his belittled form.
"Ino…what the fuck?! Have you lost your damned mind?"
"No no no, my dear friend, it is you who have lost yours. Clearly you must have a few screws loose if you're not even concerned for your friends who have disappeared on you!" Ino growled as she unclenched her fists, and fixed her hair, restraining the few loose strands that escaped her perfect coif during their eventful talk. "And don't bother coming to me for any more help, it's obvious you don't want to hear anything I have to say. I can't stand to look at your rude and stubborn ass any longer…even fools are less oblivious than you" Ino nagged as she turned and walked inside the flower shop, leaving the blonde to sit in the street.
"Chikusho" Naruto muttered acidly under his breath. It was only lunch time and already he was having a shit day. Perfect.
His stomach now calling his attention through the most painful of grumblings, Naruto stood and brushed himself off before walking sulkily through the crowded market streets, immersing himself within the mass of people. As if the hangover wasn't enough, his head was now spinning even more, jumbled with thoughts and memories. Now adding Yamanaka to the list of voices currently looping through is brain, Naruto reflected a bit on her observations involving Shikamaru. Now absentmindedly chewing on his swollen, bloodied lip, the frustrated Uzumaki winced at the painful reminder. Truth be told, he had thought it odd that the Nara had been a little incognito since their return, and especially distant to the point of disappearance since Sasuke's, but he had just assumed he was busy…would there be any other reason? At this thought, Naruto sighed heavily, shrugging his shoulders as he hung his head, his hands shoved deep in his pockets, as he made way through the village, when a familiar sound caught his ear suddenly. Is that Sakura-chan? Is she…laughing?
Whipping his head around to face the direction of the sound, Naruto noticed he was outside of a swanky teahouse lounge. Stepping curiously through the maroon-colored curtained entrance, the soft music filled the entire establishment, along with the sound he was scouting. Peeking over the rice paper privacy shades, Naruto's piercing eyes scanned the room for any sign of Sakura. Looking around the dimly lit lounge, Naruto noted that most booths were occupied, save a few open seats at the large bar at the far wall of the building. He had heard about this place from Sakura a few months ago, apparently it was her favorite place to frequent, going on and on about how amazing the dango and mochi was. He had heard through the grapevine that this particular establishment was quite the date haven, and as he looked about the room, it was confirmed as the romantic feel of the privacy light from each table revealed only couples sitting comfortably amongst hushed conversations. It wasn't long before a shock of pink hair gave Sakura away. As Naruto smiled victoriously he moved to join her, but stopped just as his eyes found Sasuke, sitting across from her with the biggest smile plastered on his face.
He wasn't sure why, but seeing Sasuke this happy made him angry. They had been dating for several months, hell, they were practically living together, and Naruto had yet to see a smile this big. He had to admit it, he hated the taste of jealousy, it just didn't suit him.
As he shooed away the hostess who approached him cautiously as he snooped along the privacy wall at the entrance, he turned his attention back to the happy looking couple as they continued their little rendezvous. Luckily, his two teammates were sitting close enough for him to hear bits and pieces of their conversation, thanking Kami, Naruto scooted a little closer, cupping his ear to the screen in hopes of amplifying the sound if even just a bit.
"Well, I'm glad that I could help, Sasuke. You know…it's not everyday that a girl get's asked this, but I will do my best to make you happy" Sakura giggled nervously. "It's just…I don't know how I feel about lying to him…I really think you should talk to him first, I-"
"Sakura…" Sasuke interrupted, grabbing her clutched hands as they fiddled with the table cloth, "I appreciate your concern, but Naruto will understand…I just don't want to say anything to him yet, you know how he is…I'm just… buying some time until I know for sure this will work out."
Naruto couldn't believe his ears as his mouth dropped open with eyes wide in shock. He wanted to continue listening in, but his stomach started to churn, getting the better of him as it prompted him to turn around quickly, and run through the curtains, back out into the street as he purged the contents of his stomach into the nearest shrub. Wiping his mouth and glaring at a few lingering passersby, Naruto stood upright and was soon lost in the sea of villagers as he made his way down the street, momentarily forgetting where he was going as he cursed his curiosity and all the tortured feelings it brought about.
Had he heard them right? Were Sasuke and Sakura now dating? His chest heaved as a stinging pain settled in at the sound of his own thoughts. His face grimaced even more as the thought of Sasuke sneaking around on him made him physically sick. As the betrayal faded, anger soon seeped in. Clenching his fists by his side, the thought of going back to his house was more than he could bare at the moment, the last thing he needed was to run into Sasuke before his emotions settled completely, the prospect of starting another nasty fight over this could only lead in a dangerous direction at this point. Stopping in mid step, Naruto felt compelled to inhale a deep breath, and released it slowly in an attempt at calming his inner self as he felt his chakra flare. During times of emotional stress such as this, Naruto had to keep himself in check, for a person of Jinchuriki status, losing one's temper among the lunch time rush of surrounding villagers was an enormous no-no. Naruto needed to calm down, and he needed to calm down quick. Opening his eyes once again, he soon found himself to be in front of the pub. The idea of cooling his head with a bottle or two of Sake was becoming more and more appealing. Sure it was midday, but who the hell cares…when your day is complete shit, it's always a good time to drink. Weaving in and out of the passing people, Naruto made his way over to the dilapidated bar entry and slipped inside.
Dragging his feet, and making his way to the bar, Naruto plopped down onto the bar stool, immediately ordering a drink. As the warm Sake burned its way down his throat, Naruto could feel his nerves settle as he all but practically melted into his seat. Usually the bar was slam packed with jonins back from away missions, or people cheering in celebration, just like it had been just twelve hours prior when he and Sasuke were here, but now Naruto sighed inwardly amidst the eerily quiet atmosphere with only the sounds of the jukebox being heard.
Soon his thoughts made their way back to him. "Sasuke…" the blonde mumbled under his breath as he slammed his glass down against the bar, the sharp noise efficiently waking the slumbering ninja that had passed out on the bar a few seats down from him. As the weary ninja sat up and opened his groggy eyes, seemingly looking for the source of his abrasive wake up call, he slurred out in an uproarious bellow, "Ushumaki Na-ru-tooooo!"
As Naruto flinched in surprise at the sound of his name, slowly he turned to face the sleepy drunk, his eyes going wide as he realized just who it was that had called out to him. "Sh-Shikamaru?!" Naruto stuttered out of complete shock.
"Yesh, I'm afraid sho" the Nara slurred as he tried repeatedly to light the cigarette he had managed to put in his mouth.
Seeing his friend struggle, Naruto moved down to sit next to Shikamaru at the bar, noting the ridiculous amount of empty Sake bottles surrounding him.
"Shikamaru…why are you drunk in the middle of the day?" Naruto asked worriedly as he flicked open the Zippo and lit the Nara's cigarette for him.
Sighing in relief as he took the first drag, Shikamaru laughed a bit, his eyes looking anywhere but at the face of the last person he wanted to see him like this. "Why you shay? Well… I guesh there are many reashons, none of which I wish to discush wif you"
Irritated with his vague and almost rude retort, Naruto rolled his eyes and clicked his tongue. "Seriously, are you okay? I mean, I know we've had a rough day but-"
"Shave it, pretty boy!" Shikamaru cut in sharply, holding up his hand as if to silence Naruto. "I dun wanna hear 'bout your problems…you got watchu alwaysh wanted…and I…I- well, I have acshepted the fact that I never will…"
Looking at the flushed Nara as he took another lengthy drag from his smoke, Naruto could only look on in disbelief as he listened to him drawl out what it was the was actually bothering him. In a way, he was glad Shikamaru was finally opening up, today certainly was shaping up to be a day full of answers.
"Oooh…and, there ish no 'we' about ush, Naruto" Shikamaru warned as he accusingly pointed a finger at his companion, whom he finally decided to make eye contact with.
As Shikamaru started to nod off before Naruto could respond, he grabbed the cigarette and snubbed it out in an empty bottle before wrapping one of the Nara's arms around his neck and shoulder, helping him to stand. "Alright, I think you've had enough, let's get you home" Naruto grunted as they clumsily made their way out into the street.
As he weaved the hand signs for a teleportation jutsu, Naruto and Shikamaru disappeared from the ally in a poof of smoke, and landed on the Nara's front porch. Struggling with Shikamaru's drunken dead weight and loose limb antics, Naruto had no choice, but to prop his body up against the door as he fumbled through his vest pocket to get his keys and let them inside.
"Oh, I shee someone's gettin' rather frishky~" Shikamaru announced amusingly as he squirmed under Naruto's searching hands.
"Knock it off, Shikamaru!" Naruto blurted out of exasperation as he tried the key in the lock while keeping him standing as he began slumping down the door.
"Aw. Sho mean~" the drunken ninja teased as he hooked Naruto around the neck with one arm as he pulled him against his slouching body.
Just then, a click was heard as the door was unlocked, both immediately falling backwards through the opened doorway with a resounding thud. Moaning and groaning, the pile of bodies on the floor hesitated to move, both no doubt feeling the effect of their intoxication after such a hard fall. Upon opening his eyes, Naruto found himself looking down at a very smiley Shikamaru before he had both arms wrapped around him, pulling him closer to the body beneath him, his head buried into his jacket, inhaling Naruto's scent.
"Mmmm…dis feelsh nice…"
"…"
"I never thought I'd get ta hold ya like dis ever again"
"Sh-Shika…you know that was-"
"Yesh, yesh…I know all too well what that wush…but it still hurts like asonofabitch…"
"…"
"I wush just a replayshment…a temporary replayshment. I'm not sho dense as to miss that."
"C'mon Shikamaru…you know that's not true…"
"Ooh Naruto, how you torture me sho~" Shikamaru teased before squeezing the Uzumaki tighter between his clutching arms.
"SHIKA!" Naruto squealed as he felt the air leave his lungs, as he wriggled free of his grasp, sitting up beside his friends' sprawled out body.
Sitting up on his elbows, the Nara sighed deeply as he stared up at the ceiling emotionless now, his face reserved as he looked deep in thought. He couldn't help the way he was feeling, and he sure as hell couldn't help what he said in his current state of obliteration. He was just going to stop treading lightly around Naruto's feelings and be more honest, maybe then he wouldn't feel so trapped and suffocated every day. The emotional and mental torture he'd been putting himself through since that night they spent together was beyond comprehension, and it wore on him, day in and day out. The only thing Shikamaru could do was to keep his distance, let his friend be happy… unburdened and keep busy as to not think too much about unnecessary things, but there was a limit to his patience, and he was clearly approaching it. Looking up at Naruto, the Nara scoffed as he saw him avert his gaze.
"Mendokusai…" Shikamaru grumbled before he grabbed both sides of Naruto's face and pulled him forward, crashing into his lips.
"Oompf-" Naruto gasped as he suddenly found his mouth occupied, the taste of Sake making him wince slightly before he gave into the demanding kiss, returning his fervor as he parted his lips for Shikamaru's tongue as it swiped greedily over his bottom lip, practically begging for entrance. He didn't know why, but for some reason, Naruto let it continue, because he was certain that in denying it, it would somehow feel much worse. Naruto had always been one to argue that the only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it…or maybe it was just the alcohol talking. But before he could offer anymore insight to his own doing, he heard a noise that halted all movement in his body, a deer in the headlights.
"Ahem…"
As the two broke the kiss with a wet pop, both turned to the open doorway, were they found an exhausted and seemingly rather unamused and irritated Uchiha leaning back against the railing of the porch, arms folded in disapproval. As soon as their eyes met, Naruto averted his gaze out of embarrassment due to the whole situation, while Shikamaru sighed aloud before laying back down, his heavy lids soon removing himself from the conversation completely as he passed out in the middle of his entry way. Before standing, Naruto slung a heavy blanket over the slumbering Nara, before Sasuke's icy tone cut through the air, "Naruto. A word…please." Closing the door behind him quietly, Naruto made his way toward Sasuke, dragging his feet a bit as he still refused to look at Sasuke in the eye.
"What…the fuck, Naruto?" Sasuke finally spoke, as his brow creased and his glare intensified.
"Um…look, it's not what it looks like-"
"Oh, so you weren't cheating on me with that lazy ass?" Sasuke interrupted heatedly.
"Me? Cheat? On you?!" Naruto exclaimed not believing his own ears. NO, this could not be happening, just hours prior he had overheard this same man, his man, talking to Sakura about their new found relationship, and HE was the one accused of cheating?! Shaking his head in disbelief, the blonde held his tongue before clearing his thoughts. "No. He is just drunk, I found him like that and brought him home…he was just confused, is all…he thought it was… a different time…"
"Confused? Different time? What is he, Naruto? A goddamn time traveling samurai?! This is ridiculous. I've been looking for you all day, and when I find you, your kissing random drunken idiots…and making excuses for it? Damn it Naruto! If you were going to lie to me, at least make it an intelligent lie, not some bullshit reason like'he thought it was a different time'…I mean, what the fuck is that even supposed to mean?" Sasuke yelled out, obviously not caring if he made a scene as he paced back and forth scratching the back of his head.
"Well…um…er-" Naruto mumbled as he idly fumbled with the zipper on his jacket.
"No. Don't tell me…you…and him?" Sasuke guessed, his eyes twitching with boiling irritation.
"…"
"When?" the Uchiha demanded rather than asked.
"That night we ran into you coming back from Snow" the Uzumaki slurred slowly, his timid eyes flitting up to look upon Sasuke's angered gaze.
"…"
"Sasuke… it was just once, and it was before-"
"Save it. I've heard enough, and I'm going home. If you know what's good for you, don't follow me" Sasuke bit out in all seriousness.
"TEME!" the blonde screamed as he chased after Sasuke, both of them light on their feet as they hopped from one roof to the next.
As the drunken Uzumaki finally caught up with Sasuke, it was too late. The Uchiha had beaten him to his compound, and turned around long enough to shoot the blonde an icy glare before slamming the door in his face.
"Teme! Open up, right now!" Naruto screamed with all his might at the locked door that was just shut in his face, his fists pounding as he beat against the wooden planks.
"Go away, dobe! I'm in no mood for any more of your bullshit."
"Tch." Naruto clicked as he walked away from the door snarling.
With a running start towards the door, every fiber in his body flexed as he blew through the door with incredible ease…and a precisely planned Rasengan. But as he stood among the gross display of splinters and pieces of what used to be the front door, Sasuke was nowhere to be seen.
"SASUK-NGH!"
Before he had time to curse the Uchiha's name, Naruto was grabbed from behind, Sasuke securing both his arms behind his back as he was slammed into the nearest wall. With his face pressed up against the wall, Naruto grunted and squirmed with shock and anger as he felt Sasuke come close to his ear as he pressed his full weight against him, leaving him no room to fight back.
"What part of 'DON'T follow me if you know what's good for you' do you not understand, dobe?!"
"Sasuke! Just let me explain-"
"Explain why you're just a slut who will sleep with anyone? Do I even matter to you anymore? Or do I matter just as much as Gaara and Kiba and anyone else in the village that you've FUCKED?!" Sasuke screamed, his anger bleeding through every syllable.
"NO! I never-"
"Shut up, usuratonkachi…" the Uchiha seethed as he slammed the feisty blonde up against the wall again, "…If you're not a giant slut, then why not tell me about this before? We've been together for months now, and somehow this just slipped your mind?"
"I'm not a slut, you asshole! It was one time, ONE fucking time, and it was before you even came back to Konoha!" Naruto huffed, "And I don't owe you an explanation, but I was going to give you one if you would even hear me out!"
"Oh? And what exactly are you going to explain, hn?! How he was practically begging for you to fuck him?!"
"N-No… I didn't fuck him…" Naruto mumbled hesitantly as he looked over his shoulder at the widening eyes of the Uchiha.
"Y-Y-You let him…fuck you? Oh, so all of a sudden you're a bottom? So I guess when you wouldn't let me top you the other night, feeding me some excuse about how you didn't like being bottom, you were lying to me? AGAIN?!" Sasuke screamed, his blood boiling at the idea of someone else having touched Naruto in the way that he hadn't.
"THAT IS PRECISELY WHY I DON'T LIKE IT!" Naruto bit out as sourly as possible, the veins in his temple popping out with his anger.
"Hn. Well that's good to know…" Sasuke teased, his voice laced with malice, "…It makes doing this a lot more…satisfying."
Pushing off the wall, Sasuke swung Naruto around by his pinned arms, throwing is torso over the back of the couch behind them. The Uchiha was fuming, and had no intentions of waiting any longer for Naruto to warm up to the idea of letting him be seme, if anything he owed it to him now. Ripping his pants down violently, Sasuke used his free hand to slap the blonde across his ass a few hard times, his hips grinding up against the other's backside roughly.
"TEME!" Naruto shrieked, his panicked, slightly drunken mind not allowing him to keep up with the Uchiha and his new found strength in all his rage.
He tried to fight him off, but lacking the strength he would have had with a few extra hours of sleep and a warm meal, Naruto knew he didn't stand a chance. He knew he had angered Sasuke, and now he was dealing with his explosive temper, but maybe this was just a blessing in disguise. As he swallowed his fate, Naruto bit down on his bottom lip as he felt Sasuke grind up against him harshly. Without a moment's notice, Sasuke spit into his palm as he rubbed the head of his hardened cock and thrusted into Naruto in one fluid motion, grunting as he felt the blonde clench tightly around him.
"Give it up, dobe…you're mine now" Sasuke groaned into Naruto's ear, his free hand grabbing a fist full of hair, pulling him upright while Sasuke taunted him, "…and I'll fuck you however I want to, understood?"
"AAH! NNN… Sasu… ke… s-stop!" the blonde cried, tears welling up as he felt like he was being ripped open. Without any preparation and the hard, jabbing thrusts Sasuke was driving into him, Naruto choked on his tears as he screamed and cried out, trying his best to lash out of his grasp.
"You're mine, you hear me? This ass is mine now, dobe!" Sasuke grunted as he panted heavily, loving every torturous second he was making the Uzumaki pay for his little indiscretions.
Whimpering now, Naruto just kept his mouth shut as the Uchiha slammed into him furiously. If this wasn't the excuse he was looking for to make a clean break, he didn't know what was. All he had to do now is enjoy the last few minutes remaining with the man he loved, knowing that there would be no going back after this, this is what they both needed right now. It was the mature decision, although a bitter, jagged pill to swallow, it still must go down.
"Mmm, I bet you love this, I bet you secretly love me fucking you senseless, dobe" Sasuke growled, his hand gripping onto Naruto's hip tighter as he held him in place, bracing for his building climax.
"AAH! Fuuuuck!" Sasuke exclaimed throwing his head back, his breath hitching as he came inside the teary blonde. With a few more deep thrusts, he emptied his fiery hot seed inside Naruto. Pulling out slowly, he lowered his head as he leaned over the blonde, trying to catch his breath. Naruto seizing the opportunity to break free, pushed back against Sasuke, shoving him back as Naruto hurriedly pulled up his pants and walked towards the open doorway.
"Get back here Uzumaki Naruto, I'm not finished with you yet!" the snarling Uchiha commanded, lunging forward, grabbing Naruto by the arm.
Whirling around, Naruto landed a swift right hook straight across Sasuke's jaw, his busted lip leaving blood splatter across his knuckles. As Sasuke flew backwards, landing on his ass and rubbing his jaw, he looked up at an emotionless Uzumaki, startled by his sudden cold presence. Not even bothering to wipe away his tears, Naruto looked down at the offended Uchiha, his lips pressed firmly together as he gathered the courage to say what he must.
"But I'm finished with you. Don't play dumb with me anymore, teme. I'm not an idiot like you seem to think, and after you practically raped me, I'm pretty sure you're the one who's the idiot around here, you fucking asshole. Don't ever talk to me again. And have fun making plenty of babies with Sakura, I'm sure you'll be lovely parents, not that I would know… so you'll have to forgive me for not caring…" the blonde stated flatly before turning on his heel and booking it out of there before his resolve crumbled and he ran into that baka's arms.
"Naruto?!" Sasuke screamed, running after the sprinting Uzumaki.
Sensing Sasuke coming up quick behind him, Naruto weaved the signs for his Tajuu Kage Bunshin no Jutsu. As hundreds of his clones appeared and scrambled out amongst the rooftops, the Uchiha losing the real Naruto in the chaos.
"NARUTOOOO!" Sasuke screamed out, trying his best not to panic as he feared never hearing from the dobe ever again.