Haunting Flames- Book Three in Flames Series

by DianneRose2016

Full Summary Inside: Three years have passed since Sasuke became a missing-nin. Kakashi's world is shattered when he learns some disturbing news. Now it is a race against time to save Sasuke from the Hell he has been trapped in. But Sasuke has a long road of recovery ahead of him. Add in Itachi now being back and Shikamaru's new boyfriend. Plus Sasuke's two young children.

2. Chapter 2

Warnings: Sex and sexual activities, like a lot of it. Surprisingly enough for only chapter 2, but the characters want what they want. Enjoy.

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Chapter 2

It wasn't until two in the morning when Shikamaru woke up to Shadow nudging his face. Shikamaru opened his eyes and saw that he had fallen asleep sitting down in the chair next to Sasuke's bed. His arms were on the bed and his head had been on his arms. Shadow was also still up on the bed and something seemed to be bothering him as he had woken Shikamaru up. Shikamaru placed a heavy hand on Shadow's back and started to pet him.

"What's wrong boy?" Shikamaru whispered and Shadow simply whimpered and placed a paw on Sasuke's left leg.

Shikamaru looked over at Sasuke and he didn't see what the big deal was. Sasuke hadn't even moved since they had arrived at the hospital. Shikamaru wasn't a medical person, but even he knew that the monitors were in a good place.

"He'll be okay boy." Shikamaru whispered again as he looked over at Kakashi. He had at least managed to get to the cot for some sleep.

Shikamaru knew the past three years had been horribly hard on Kakashi. Shikamaru had often wondered if Kakashi was going to survive Sasuke's leaving. On many occasions he had overheard his parents and Asuma talking about Kakashi's drinking and how much it had increased since Sasuke's leaving. At one point it got so bad that they had been thinking of speaking to him as an intervention to get him to quit. Kakashi was still going on missions and paying his bills, but other than that he spent his time alone in his home drinking when Iruka wasn't around to get him to stop. There were plenty of times when Kakashi had kicked Iruka out and wanted nothing to do with him so he could be alone and drink his misery away. Iruka had thought about breaking up with Kakashi because of it, but he was worried what Kakashi would do without Iruka there still with him. Shikamaru knew that having Sasuke back wasn't going to magically fix their problems. It would bring all new problems to their relationship with how injured Sasuke was, not to mention the two small children that now came with Sasuke. Still, Shikamaru was hopeful that their relationship would work out for them both. Shikamaru wanted Kakashi to be happy.

Shikamaru was about to put his head back down when he saw Sasuke's right index finger move.

"So that's why you woke me." Shikamaru whispered to Shadow.

Shikamaru sat up straighter and he placed his hand gently on Sasuke's right one so he wouldn't hurt him anymore than he already was. If Sasuke was going to wake up Shikamaru didn't want him to be afraid or to think he was alone. It took a few minutes after that for Sasuke's eyes to slowly flicker open. Shikamaru could see that his eyes were blurry and confused. Sasuke's eyes moved slowly around the room, but Shikamaru wasn't sure his mind was even registering where he was. When they finally landed on Shikamaru, he gave Sasuke a warm smile.

"Hey you." Shikamaru whispered.

Sasuke looked confused for a second before he spoke very softly and Shikamaru could hear the pain laced in Sasuke's voice.

"Shika?"

"I'm here Sas." Shikamaru whispered back as he gently rubbed his thumb along the back of Sasuke's bandaged hand.

"You found me." Sasuke said weakly as his eyes flickered closed for a second before opening again. "What about Asuma?"

"What about Asuma Sasuke?" Shikamaru asked now confused himself.

"Danzou took him didn't he? Did you find him?"

"Ya Sas we found him. He's okay. He's not hurt." Shikamaru said playing along. Shikamaru knew that Sasuke was confused and thought that this was three years ago when Danzou had stormed into Sasuke's home and took both Sasuke and Asuma for nine days. Shikamaru was afraid of what this meant for Sasuke's mental health. If this was something that would occur often or if it was just a fluke right now. Either way it was better to play along right now.

"I missed you." Sasuke said as his eyes flickered close once again, but he opened them with a great deal of effort.

"I missed you too." Shikamaru said with a warm smile.

Shadow was through with being ignored and he nudged Sasuke's side. Sasuke's eyes moved down to the dog and Shikamaru could instantly see the confusion on his face.

"That's Shadow, he's a dog of Kakashi's. He's on guard tonight." Shikamaru supplied before Sasuke could ask.

Sasuke moved his right hand very slowly and gave the dog a quick pet before he couldn't hold his hand up anymore.

"You okay?" Sasuke asked Shikamaru.

"I'm great now that you're safe again." Shikamaru answered honestly.

"Hold me?" Sasuke asked weakly as his eyes started to fall once again and Shikamaru knew this would be the last time he was able to force himself awake again.

"Always." Shikamaru said around the lump in his throat.

Shikamaru got up and patted the end of the bed for Shadow to move. Thankfully the dog understood and moved to the bottom of the bed and curled up so his head was across Sasuke's feet. Shikamaru got up onto the bed and very carefully put his arms around Sasuke so Sasuke was against his chest, but still on his back. Shikamaru kissed the side of Sasuke's head before he spoke.

"Sleep Sas. I'll be right here when you wake up."

"I love you." Sasuke said just barely a whisper as he fell asleep.

"I love you." Shikamaru whispered back with a deep sadness in his voice.

The past two days had really messed with his mind and emotions. Shikamaru didn't know what he felt for Sasuke anymore. He knew he was dating Hurrio, but that didn't change the fact that Shikamaru had always felt something for Sasuke, even after he left. Shikamaru did his best to move on, because everyone said he had to. Chouji and Ino kept reminding him that Sasuke had left without saying anything to him, that he obviously didn't care about Shikamaru like Shikamaru had believed he did. When Shikamaru had met Hurrio it was while he was learning about being a Junior Advisor. It had been his first week in the new position and Hurrio was there to report back for a new mission when their paths had crossed. Hurrio had expressed interest in Shikamaru almost instantly, but Shikamaru didn't know if he was ready for anything just yet. It had taken three weeks and a great deal of harassment from Chouji and Ino to even agree to a date with Hurrio. They had a good time and Shikamaru slowly warmed up to the thought of being with someone other than Sasuke. Even still, Shikamaru had held back often and he often felt like a part of him was cheating on Sasuke. He pushed that thought down every single time, because Sasuke had left and even though they never said I don't want to be with you anymore, Sasuke said it by leaving the way that he did.

Still, Shikamaru knew that Hurrio cared about him more than Shikamaru cared for him. Shikamaru didn't know what he was feeling about all of this and he didn't know what he was feeling about Sasuke and Hurrio. He did know he would need to figure it out, but he didn't have to figure it out tonight. Shikamaru closed his eyes and allowed his exhausted body the sleep it was calling for.

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It wasn't until eight the next morning did the door to the room open. Shikamaru's parents and Hurrio walked into the room to see Kakashi awake and sitting in a chair by the bed. They also saw Shikamaru curled up with Sasuke on the bed. With the sound of the door opening Shadow popped his head up and growled at Hurrio. The growling caught Shikamaru's attention and his eyes opened to see what was wrong. Shikamaru instantly took notice of the new people in the room.

"It's okay Shadow." Shikamaru said with a heavy voice as he had just woken up.

Shadow stopped growling, but he didn't relax back on the bed.

"What are you doing?" Hurrio asked with a deadly calm voice.

"He woke up late last night. He was confused and just needed some comfort." Shikamaru answered softly as he slowly detailed himself from Sasuke. He didn't want to wake him up when he desperately needed the sleep.

"And Kakashi couldn't do that?" Hurrio asked again.

"He was asleep." Shikamaru answered.

"Why don't we take this out in the hallway so we don't wake Sasuke up." Yoshino suggested.

"We should get Tsunade as well, she'll want to know that Sasuke woke up." Kakashi said as he got up.

They all headed out into the hallway and closed the door so Sasuke wouldn't hear them. Only when the door finally closed did Shadow put his head back down. The others stood out in the hallway and saw Tsunade coming towards them.

"We were just about to get you. Sasuke woke up apparently last night." Kakashi said as Tsunade got close enough.

"Apparently? You don't know?" Tsunade asked confused by Kakashi's choice of words.

"I didn't wake him up. Sasuke was only awake for a couple of minutes at most otherwise I would have." Shikamaru said.

"You still should have woken me the second he did. " Kakashi said back.

"I'm sorry. Next time I will. He was just so confused I didn't want to make it worse. I thought it would be best to get him back to sleep as quickly as possible."

"Ok enough. How was he?" Tsunade asked.

"He thought it was three years ago and he had been in the jail for those nine days. He asked how I was and Asuma after being grabbed. He didn't even register how I look different. He asked about Shadow and I told him it was a dog of Kakashi's. He honestly had no idea that it had been three years."

"And you thought it would be helpful to sleep with him?" Hurrio asked with a slight accusatory tone.

"He asked if I could hold him. He was confused and in pain. It didn't mean anything." Shikamaru said.

"Why the memory gap? Is that normal?" Kakashi asked Tsunade with concern.

"Given Sasuke's injuries and the surgery. Honestly, I'm amazed he was able to put a sentence together last night. I wouldn't be too concerned about the memory gap. When he is awake today I need to speak with him and examine his mental state. If he still has the memory gap then it might be another issue." Tsunade answered.

"Being?" Shikaku asked.

"Sometimes with people who have been through a trauma their mind in order to protect itself from the harmful and potentially devastating memories. The mind will block it all out. Reset in a way, to a time where things were easier to handle. Even though Sasuke went through something horrific three years ago back in the jail, his time out of it was still relatively normal. He had people around him who cared. If what happened last night was not a fluke then it's possible Sasuke's mind has blocked out the past three and a half years in order to survive." Tsunade explained.

"Will it come back?" Shikamaru asked.

"Possible. Matters of the mind are not clear cut and simple. Some people who have suffered from this gain the memories once the physical trauma has healed and the mind feels like the person is strong enough to handle it. Some people never get them back. It all depends on Sasuke. But that is not to say that is what this is. It could just be a combination of the pain medication, the anesthesia and his head trauma. I won't know until later when I can speak to him."

"And if it is? What should we do? We can't obviously pretend like the past three and a half years never happened. He's going to notice everyone is older." Shikaku asked not really sure how they should be handling the situation.

"And you wouldn't. Sasuke will have to be told the important information about the situation. That he had been gone for three years before he was injured. That Shikamaru is in a new relationship. That he does have two small children. Any information about the past three years of your lives that you wish to tell him you could. What you couldn't talk about is what he has been through. You can't tell him what we know about where he was or what happened to him. That would be dangerous to his mind. Only Sasuke's mind can chose to remember when it feels ready to handle it. We can't be forcing memories onto Sasuke, because then we could be creating memories that are actually there. If Sasuke does truly not remember it would be taboo to talk to him or speak about what he has been through." Tsunade said.

"It would actually be a blessing. I know he will be beyond confused, but he wouldn't remember his time there. He wouldn't remember the torture or being raped. He wouldn't remember killing anyone. Him not remembering would be the best thing to ever happen to Sasuke since he was taken." Shikamaru said.

"Until it all came crashing down on him when he finally remembers." Hurrio said cynically.

"Don't get your hopes up just yet. There is a very high chance that the confusion was just a result of the combination that I mentioned. I won't know until I can speak to him. For now let Sasuke sleep. I am going to be running more tests on his blood and chakra to make sure everything is working smoothly. I want to check his chakra levels to make sure he is fine after the past three years of having them blocked. I don't expect anything to be wrong, I just want to be sure. I don't want any surprises this time around." Tsunade said.

"When will he need to start dialysis?" Kakashi asked.

"He'll need to start tomorrow. Hopefully his kidney will bounce back and he won't need a transplant." Tsunade answered.

"How long would it be if he does?" Shikaku asked.

"Depends on if Itachi is a match. If he is not, then it could be anywhere between six months to a year before the donor clinic would be able to provide one for Sasuke. It's worse case scenario and even if Sasuke had to have a transplant Itachi is ninety percent likely to be a viable match."

"Let's not worry about what could happen just yet. Sasuke is young his body should recover fast." Yoshino said trying to keep everyone positive.

"How are the kids?" Shikamaru asked.

"They are doing well considering. They were up quite a bit last night from nightmares, even Yin. I'm worried for them mentally and what their time in that place has done to them. Kai isn't moving around too much even though he could be. I think it's going to take a lot of love and time for them to truly recover and start acting like children." Yoshino answered sadly.

"It's not easy, because of their age. They don't talk and even if Kai could, he isn't old enough to understand what he is feeling. The good news is though, that they won't remember it. Kai won't have any memories of that place within the next six months and Yin will never remember. It's hard right now but once they are in a positive environment they will recover wonderfully." Tsunade said.

"He won't remember?" Shikamaru asked.

"He won't. He's too young to retain any memories that are not core memories like learning. These experiences he has lived through are only temporarily stored in his memory box. People are rarely able to retain memories as young as five. Most don't have memories until the age of eight that last their whole lives. It's a blessing in that sense." Tsunade explained.

"So all we can do is wait and see how Sasuke is when he wakes up again?" Shikamaru asked.

"That's all we can do. Sasuke's mind is seriously injured, it needs time to heal and between now and then anything could happen. He could have days where he is confused to what year it is and what has happened. Only time will tell and will heal his injuries." Tsunade answered.

"Do we know anything about Itachi yet?" Shikaku asked.

"Not yet. My hounds will find him. It's only a matter of time." Kakashi answered.

"You all look terrible. You need a break, get something to eat. You need to take care of yourselves." Tsunade said to the others, minus Hurrio.

"I don't want to leave him." Kakashi automatically said.

"And I don't think the children should be alone for very long." Yoshino added.

"And they will be fine for a little longer. None of you will be any good to these three if you are all rundown. Get some breakfast and take a break before you all collapse." Tsunade said with a hint of order in her voice.

"I'll stay with him. That way he won't be alone if he wakes up." Hurrio offered.

"That's sweet, but Shadow really doesn't like you for some reason." Shikamaru said.

"It's probably because I remind him of some of the guards. I don't know much about dogs, but I do know they need to go to the bathroom and eat more than once every twenty hours. It'll do him some good to be out of the hospital too. He hasn't had sunlight either in three years." Hurrio said back with a warm smile. He wanted to be able to speak to Sasuke, but he couldn't do that with everyone around for it.

"He does need to go out and to eat." Kakashi said as he ran a hand over his face.

"Then you all can go out for breakfast and Hurrio will keep watch over Sasuke. And yes that is an order." Tsunade said to them with a stern face before she turned her attention to Hurrio. "Call me right away if he wakes up."

"Yes Ma'am." Hurrio easily agreed.

"Go, now." Tsunade said before she turned and left.

"I'll grab Shadow and then we can get something to eat. Tsunade is right, we need to take proper care of ourselves, especially now. Sasuke and those kids are going to need a lot of help." Kakashi said.

"And they will have it. On the way back in, I think I'll pick up some vanilla ice cream for Kai. His stomach needs simple foods right now and it will be good to get some weight onto him." Yoshino said.

"That's a good idea." Shikaku agreed.

Kakashi went into the room to grab Shadow, he knew that Shadow wouldn't want to leave Sasuke, but they needed to get him fed as well. Kakashi went over to the bed and saw that Shadow was lying down with his head on Sasuke's chest. Shadow gave a whimper to Kakashi.

"I know boy, but he's going to be ok. You'll see, they'll all be okay." Kakashi said as he gave Shadow a pet on his head to offer what little comfort he could. "We need to leave though for a little while. You need to go to the bathroom and we all need food. Come on boy, you can be right back here in an hour or less."

Kakashi nudged Shadow to get him off the bed. Shadow didn't want to move, but he also knew that he had to. Kakashi was glad that Shadow had decided to listen to him and he got off the bed and followed Kakashi out of the room with his head down. It was clear to everyone that he was depressed. Yoshino bent down and pulled Shadow into her arms for a hug as she spoke.

"I know you don't want to leave, but it's only for a little while sweetie. We'll get them all nice and healthy again I promise you."

"Are you sure you'll be alright with him?" Shikamaru asked Hurrio.

"Of course Babe. Don't worry I'll make sure he's safe. He's just going to sleep anyways. The chances of him waking up while you are gone are slim. Trust me."

"I always trust you. Ok, we won't be long, an hour at most."

"Take your time. I love you." Hurrio said as he moved in for a kiss.

"You too." Shikamaru said as he gave Hurrio a quick kiss before they headed out of the hospital to grab some breakfast at a closeby restaurant.

Hurrio smiled to himself as he headed into Sasuke's hospital room so he could sit there with him. He was going to wait until it was closer to the hour marker before he woke Sasuke up. With any luck he would be able to have a conversation with him about who Shikamaru belonged to.

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Once they arrived at the restaurant and placed their food order in Yoshino spoke.

"We need to get a list together of what we need to do before they can be released from the hospital."

"We don't even know what will happen with them or when Itachi gets here." Shikamaru said.

"I know, but they will still be released from the hospital, possibly before Sasuke if something goes wrong. We need to get things in order, we don't know when Itachi will get here either. The very least we need to find them all a place to live. His apartment is gone, not that it would have been much help to him. We should also clean out that spare bedroom that we are using as a storage room for the kids." Yoshino said the last part to her husband.

"They might live with Sasuke." Shikaku said.

"Regardless, Sasuke and those kids will need help. There maybe many times where Sasuke needs a break from them. We should have a place for them to sleep at the house."

"Yes dear. Kakashi, will you be living with them?" Shikaku asked.

"I'm not sure what will happen. I'll need to have a conversation with Itachi and see where he stands in all of this. Either way I'll need to find a new home for Sasuke, I don't have any room in my apartment. I'll need to find a house for them regardless."

"Itachi would let you live with them though right?" Shikamaru asked.

"I don't know. I haven't spoken to Itachi since he was thirteen. I have no idea what he is going to be like or how he would feel about any of this. Even if I don't live with Sasuke, I'll still be able to see him all the time. Once Itachi gets back in the village I'll be able to speak to him about everything and we can make a plan from there."

"All of this is crazy." Shikamaru said softly.

"I know this is hard son. I know this is confusing for you. Hurrio told you he loved you and for the first time you said you too back and not I love you. You've never done that before." Shikaku said gently.

"Did something else happen last night that you didn't tell us sweetie?" Yoshino asked.

"After Sasuke asked me to hold him, I think for a few seconds he remembered it wasn't three years ago. He told me he missed me and that he loves me."

"And what did you say?" Yoshino asked gently.

"I told him that I missed him too and that I love him. I didn't even think about it, it just came out. He didn't say anything, he was barely awake when he had said it. I don't even know if he'll remember any of it or if he maybe thought he was dreaming. He didn't even remember Shadow. Why did I say it back? He was practically asleep, he wouldn't have heard me. I love Hurrio, he is my boyfriend, we get along and my friends like him. What happened to Sasuke shouldn't change that he was still gone for three years. We're different people and he has a very long road ahead of him. The odds of us ever being together are ridiculously low. I always think things through, why would I say that to him?" Shikamaru asked with genuine confusion in his voice.

"Isn't it possible, that you still feel that way about Sasuke? Yes, he was gone for three years, but the circumstances that he was taken from you change how you felt about his leaving. You're allowed to be confused about this Shikamaru. You're allowed to doubt how you feel about Hurrio." Kakashi said.

"You are still young son, you have lots of time to figure out how you feel about either of them. I just don't want you to let go of a good thing for something that may never happen again. I think you need to take it one day at a time and see how things go from there." Shikaku said worried that Shikamaru would waste his life away waiting for Sasuke to be ready for a relationship again.

"You both are also different people now. You should become friends again before something more." Yoshino added.

Shikamaru gave a nod and it was clear he was thinking about everything and just trying to figure it out. He had no idea what to do with these new feelings he had of Sasuke and it was all confusing to him. He didn't want to lead Hurrio on if his heart wasn't into it, but at the same time he didn't know if what he was feeling for Sasuke real either or just left over from how they left things and all of this new information. As hard as it would be, he would have to wait and see how each day went and see how his feelings went from there. For now all he could do was help in any way that he could.

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Hurrio sat in Sasuke's room waiting to see if Sasuke would wake up, so far he hadn't. Hurrio had waited for forty minutes, but Sasuke hadn't shown signs of life yet. Hurrio wasn't about to wait any longer. This might be the only time he would be able to be alone with Sasuke and he wanted to make sure Sasuke knew what was going on. Hurrio wasn't going to tolerate Sasuke hanging off of Shikamaru. Shikamaru was his boyfriend and it had taken a lot of work and effort to get Shikamaru past Sasuke and all of his drama. Hurrio wasn't going to tolerate Sasuke trying to steal Shikamaru away from him. Hurrio got up and went over to the bed. He leaned down and spoke loud enough for Sasuke to hear him, but not anyone else that could be walking by.

"Wake up."

When Sasuke didn't move Hurrio went and gave Sasuke's shoulder a hard shake as he spoke again.

"Come on get up."

With the contact Sasuke's eyes snapped open as it had been programmed into him from the past three years. Sasuke saw someone he didn't recognize in a foreign room. The confusion was clear in Sasuke's eyes as they shot around trying to understand what was happening.

"You're in Konoha's hospital. You've been gone for three years." Hurrio said completely without care.

"Where's my dad?" Sasuke asked with a weak voice.

"He's dead."

"Kakashi's dead?"

"No he's alive. He's out grabbing something to eat. Took that stupid dog of yours with him."

"Who are you?" Sasuke asked more confused now than ever. His mind was trying to catch up with him, but it felt like he was going through a thick sludge.

"Hurrio. I'm Shikamaru's boyfriend. We've been together for a year now. We're in love."

"Boyfriend?"

"Yes, you didn't think he would wait for you all these years? He didn't even look for you. I just wanted to get a few things in order between us now that you are back."

"Things?"

Sasuke's voice was pretty weak and he was getting really confused. He wanted Kakashi. He wanted someone that he knew for certain was safe. Sasuke knew he was in Konoha as he recognized the hospital, but that didn't make him feel safe. That didn't change what he remember of the past three years. All he could think about was getting out, being free and now he was, but he felt so confused and disorientated. His whole body hurt and his mind felt horrible. He really wasn't feeling well and he couldn't help, but think he was forgetting something important. After finally being free, only to find out that the man he loves doesn't love him back. Not only that, but he moved on to some other man and didn't even look for him. Sasuke felt betrayal, like he had never felt before.

"Well I know last night you and Shikamaru fell asleep together. I know you were confused and you didn't know he was in love with someone else. I just wanted to meet you and let you know that we are in love and you need to let him go. He's been happy without you around and now that you are back, you have way too much baggage now. I mean between being tortured and raped, you'll never be able to be with him and give him what he needs. Plus you have two small children you have to raise. Shikamaru doesn't deserve to be dragged down to that type of life. He deserves better than that life. He feels obligated to be with you. You've already hurt him enough, don't continue to destroy his life. He won't go unless you tell him to. You need to tell him to leave you alone. Besides, it's not like you want to see us kissing. We do it all the time. We do a lot of things together, things you'll never be able to give him sexually. Just let him finally be free."

"I don't, I don't understand any of this. I want Dad. I don't want you here, I want my dad." Sasuke said sounding panicked and distressed.

"Again, your dad is dead. Your brother killed him. Kakashi is out with my boyfriend. He didn't come and look for you either. They all figured you left just like your brother did. Betrayed the village and them. No one looked for you. It was just dumb luck that kid found Kakashi and told him what happened. Now you're safe and you get the spend the rest of your life being disabled and a single parent to two children. Shikamaru deserves a real man. One that can provide for him, can protect him. You can focus on your now meaningless life. Though, you could always kill yourself I guess if you don't want that life. Choice is yours." Hurrio said with an I don't care shrug.

"Go away. Just go away. I want my dad, just leave me alone." Sasuke said with extreme panic in his voice as his body started to start shaking.

Hurrio put his hands up in the air as he spoke. "Fine, be here by yourself, I don't care."

Hurrio headed out and once the door was closed Sasuke closed his eyes and tried to get his mind to focus. He felt sick, he felt just down right horrible. His body was in pain, he could barely feel his legs, his body was trembling. All he wanted was Kakashi and yet he wasn't here. Sasuke didn't even know what to think about any of this. Apparently, no one had looked for him. Sasuke thought this whole time that Kakashi was searching everywhere trying to find him. Only to find out that it was just luck that he was found. Sasuke felt like he couldn't breathe. Hurrio said his dad was dead, that Itachi killed him, but that couldn't be true. It can't be true, Kakashi can't be dead.

Sasuke's breathing picked up and he felt the panic reaching a whole new level. What if he wasn't really here? What if this was some result of a drug they gave him? He could be in a nightmare right now, how could he know? What would he do now, if Kakashi was dead, what would he do? How would he handle all of this? Sasuke couldn't handle any of this. He started to move, because the need to move was overwhelming. He pushed his body slowly into a sitting position. He normally was able to use Shadow, but even Shadow wasn't in the room. He was all alone in this bright white room. Sasuke found it too bright, too white. It felt too clean, it smelt too clean. Sasuke looked down at the bed and for the first time his mind was registering that he was on a bed. Beds were bad, bad things happened on them. He couldn't go through that again. He couldn't handle going through that again. He didn't want it, he didn't want any of it, but his body wouldn't listen. It always betrayed him and responded to the touches. Sasuke saw that there was an I.V in his arm and he ripped it out, causing his arm to bleed. He wouldn't be taking any drugs, he wouldn't let any drugs be given to him. Drugs were bad, bad things always happened on drugs. Sasuke knew he had to get out of here, he had to find an escape, even if this was some nightmare or hallucination, he wouldn't be trapped here.

Sasuke forced his body to push through the horrible pain and moved closer to the end of the bed. Sasuke tried to get his legs to work, but they were so numb he didn't even know how to stand up on them. Sasuke tried, but the second his feet touched the ground his legs collapsed. He wasn't strong enough to hold himself up. Sasuke didn't care though. He crawled on his stomach and used his arms to drag himself across the floor towards the window. He would get out of this room and find someplace where he would be safe. Just as Sasuke reached up to touch the window the door to the room opened once again.

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Kakashi, Shadow, Shikamaru and his parents arrived back at the hospital to see that Hurrio was out in the hallway. They were instantly worried as Hurrio should have been inside Sasuke's room watching over him.

"Why are you out here?" Kakashi demanded.

"He kicked me out. He woke up about ten minutes ago and kicked me out. He didn't know who I was and when I told him he lost it at me. Told me to get the hell out, that he wanted his dad."

"What did you tell him?" Shikamaru asked.

"That I was Hurrio, your boyfriend and that his dad was dead. He asked about Kakashi and I told him he was fine, that he was out with you. He's too unstable right now."

"Why would you tell him you were my boyfriend?" Shikamaru asked with anger edging his voice.

"Because I am and he seemed confused by why I was there. I thought it would help calm him down if he knew that we were close. I was trying to offer what comfort I could for him until you guys got back. But he just lost it at me and told me to leave. I thought it would be better to leave him alone until you got here."

Kakashi didn't need to hear anymore. His son was awake, confused and terrified. Kakashi wasn't going to leave him alone any longer than he had to. Kakashi opened the door and was shocked that Sasuke wasn't in his bed, but was actually on the floor trying to open the window, most likely to escape. Sasuke turned at the sound of the door and the fear instantly filled his eyes. Sasuke scooted back so he was in the corner of the room and brought his legs up to try and protect himself. Shadow wasn't going to have any of it and he ran over to Sasuke and placed himself in front of Sasuke facing them on guard. Even though they hadn't hurt Shadow or Sasuke, it didn't matter to Shadow. All he knew was that his person was terrified and hurt and these people caused that reaction in him.

The others came into the room and Kakashi held his hands up in the air so Sasuke and Shadow could see he didn't have any weapons.

"It's ok Shadow, you know I won't hurt him. He needs help Shadow, let me help him boy."

Kakashi could see Shadow thinking about it. He turned to look at Sasuke and it was as if the dog was able to see just how bad off Sasuke was. Shadow went and sat down beside Sasuke and the message was clear. He was still ready to attack should he need to, but for now he was letting Kakashi get close enough to Sasuke. Sasuke at this point was shaking so bad Kakashi was afraid he would rip his stitches, assuming he already hadn't. His breathing was also too fast for Kakashi to be comfortable with. Kakashi spoke as he slowly made his way towards Sasuke.

"It's ok Sasuke, you're safe in Konoha now."

"Not real. Not real. He said you were dead. He said Dad was dead. Itachi killed Dad. You're dead, you're not real." Sasuke said as he slowly started to rock back and forth and clench his hands in his hair.

"No Sasuke, Hurrio didn't mean me, he meant Fugaku. I'm alive son. I'm right here." Kakashi said as he inched closer.

"No, no trick, some trick. The drugs from the line, this is a trick. It's not right, none of it is right. Too bright, too clean, too white. This isn't home. Home is where you're safe, Dad taught me that. Safe in that room, no one touches you in that room. Too bright to be home. Not real, it's not real." Sasuke started to hyperventilate and Kakashi knew if he didn't do something soon they would have to sedate Sasuke, and he didn't see that going over well.

The others couldn't believe how bad Sasuke's mind was right now. They knew it would get better, but currently he sounded crazy and in between it all, there would be two small children to take care of. It was impossible for Sasuke to be able to do. Shikamaru fought with the tears in his eyes and the unbelievable need to go and take Sasuke in his arms just to prove that he was safe, that this was all real. He knew he couldn't though. They had no idea how Sasuke would react to being touched right now. He also knew that Kakashi had the best chance at getting Sasuke to calm down.

Kakashi turned to look at the others as he spoke. "Shikaku, turn the lights off."

Shikaku went and flicked the switch to help darken the room. It wasn't much better, but it was darker and might help with some of Sasuke's anxiety. Kakashi knew he was supposed to go slow, but with Sasuke's breathing being this bad, he couldn't just wait. Kakashi went right over to Sasuke and bent down in front of him. He wanted to be eye level with Sasuke, so Sasuke wouldn't think he was trying to pressure him at all.

"Son, listen to me, can you touch Shadow for me?" Kakashi kept his voice gentle and made sure the patience within it was clear.

Sasuke didn't have any problem reaching beside him and wrapping his arms around Shadow's neck. Shadow buried his head in the crook of Sasuke's neck doing what he could to provide comfort to Sasuke. Sasuke started to rock with Shadow in his arms, something Shadow appeared to be used to.

"Shadow's real, he's always real. Helps me get up, keeps me warm. You, you not real. He said Dad was dead. I need to go home, have to get home. They'll hurt them, I have to protect them. Shadow keeps them warm. You're not real."

"I am real Son. I know this is hard for you. You have some injuries to your brain and it's making you really confused. I'm not dead Son. Reach out, you can touch me. I won't disappear and your hand won't go through me. I'm right here, all you have to do is reach out and touch me."

"No touch is bad, I don't want to be touched anymore. I didn't want it, I didn't want it. Why did my body do those things? I couldn't stop it from happening, why did it not listen?" Sasuke asked as tears built in his eyes.

"It wasn't your fault son. They gave you a drug to make your body react that way. I know you didn't want it." Kakashi said as he fought his own tears back. He knew Sasuke's mind was going to be a struggle, but he didn't expect this. Nothing could have prepared him for this.

"Where's Niisan? Dad is dead, but Niisan can't die. Too strong, too tough, he doesn't get hurt. Niisan could find me. He always knows what to do. I need Niisan. Dad is dead, Niisan will fix it."

"I'm right here Son. Itachi is on his way, he'll be here hopefully soon for you. I think you just need some sleep. You're so exhausted it's not helping your mind right now. You need sleep Son." Kakashi said as he reached out and placed his hand on Sasuke's kneecap.

Sasuke stopped rocking and looked down at the hand now touching his knee. They could see the confusion creeping across Sasuke's face as Kakashi's hand didn't pass right through him. Sasuke looked at the hand and allowed his eyes to move for the first time up Kakashi's arm, across his chest and up to his face. It was as if Sasuke had just realised that someone else was in the room. He truly believed this was all in his mind and having Shadow touching him was just normal to Sasuke. It made perfect sense in Sasuke's mind for Shadow to be with him. Sasuke looked at Kakashi and Kakashi gave Sasuke a warm smile trying to coax something out of Sasuke. Sasuke slowly moved his right hand towards Kakashi's chest. Kakashi didn't dare to even breath at that moment. He kept completely still as Sasuke's hand got closer to his chest before it finally touched with just the briefest amount of pressure. Sasuke took in a sharp gasp at the contact as he pushed more firmly.

"Not air. Always air before, always went through, never solid." Sasuke said softly to himself.

"I'm real Son, I'm right here with you. I'm not dead. I got you out." Kakashi said as he gently moved Sasuke's hand so it was over his heart. So Sasuke could feel Kakashi's heartbeat.

Just that feeling alone was enough to break the dam inside of Sasuke. The wail of a cry broke through Sasuke after the second beat and his hand gripped Kakashi's shirt where his heart was as best as he could. Sasuke moved away from Shadow and all, but collapsed into Kakashi's chest as the tears took over. Kakashi didn't even hesitate to wrap his arms around Sasuke and hold onto him as long as he needed it.

"Not dead. You're not dead." Sasuke said in between the tears and shaky breaths.

"I'm not dead Son. I'm right here with you. You don't have to worry about anyone hurting you again. I promise you. I have you Son, let it out. Just let it out."

"It hurts so bad."

Kakashi pulled Sasuke closer and readjusted him so Sasuke's body was turned towards the bed and would help ease some of the physical pain.

"I know, I know. We'll get through it though, together. Itachi will be here too. My hounds will find him and he'll come rushing back here. He's been looking for you for months now. He's going to be so happy to see you."

"He said you were dead."

"I'm not dead. I'm sorry I wasn't here when you woke up Son. I'm right here though. You're safe now, all of you are safe."

"Why didn't you find me. I waited for you to find me. I didn't want to be there. He said you didn't look. He said."

"I did look for you Sasuke. I looked for three years. I thought you left willingly, but I still looked for you. I had my hounds out searching for you. I wasn't going to stop looking for you until I found you. I'm sorry I didn't find you sooner. But I never stopped looking for you Son. Never."

"There was so much blood. It was everywhere. And dead eyes, always staring back at me. They made me kill them. They made me. I didn't want to, I didn't want it. It never comes off it's always there. The blood never comes off."

"Shh, it's ok You're not there anymore. No one will ever make you do those things again."

Sasuke started coughing and Kakashi knew he needed to get Sasuke back into bed. He was too injured to be sitting on the cold and hard floor. Sasuke's breathing was getting worse from talking and coughing so much. Once Sasuke finally got his coughing fit under control Sasuke spoke as he put his head against Kakashi's chest.

"I don't feel so good."

"You're pretty sick right now Sasuke. You need to get back into bed and get hooked back up to the medicine."

"Bad things happen on beds. Drugs and beds are bad, bad things happen." Sasuke said with a panicked voice.

"Hey, calm down. I'm not going to let anything happen to you. The medicine is to help make you feel better. It won't do what the other drugs did to you. You can sleep in a bed and not worry about someone touching you. No one will do that to you, especially while I am around."

"You won't leave?"

"I'm not going anywhere."

"Nothing will happen? Promise?"

"I promise you. Nothing will happen to you Son. I'm going to pick you up. You're body is really hurt and you have some stitches on your stomach. You shouldn't be moving around too much."

Sasuke just gave a shaky nod and Kakashi picked Sasuke up bridal style and Sasuke let out a groan at the added pain. Shadow gave a bark in protest but before Kakashi could speak, Sasuke did.

"I'm ok Shadow."

Kakashi brought Sasuke over to the bed and placed him down. Once he stepped back Shadow jumped up on the bed and laid down beside Sasuke with his head by Sasuke's chest.

"I need to call Tsunade, she wanted to check you out and she'll need to put your IV back in. You need the medicine to make you healthy again. That's all it will do though. It's not going to hurt you. Is that ok?"

Sasuke gave a nod as he tucked his head down against Shadow's. Kakashi reached over and hit the nurse call button. Shikamaru moved closer so he could try and talk to Sasuke.

"Hey Sas."

"Don't want you here. Go away." Sasuke said with hurt in his voice.

"Sas." Shikamaru said with hurt in his voice.

"Take your boyfriend with you. The man you love, he can go with you."

"Sasuke, I." Shikamaru started, but he didn't even know what to say to that. He had nothing to say to it. Yoshino understood where they were both coming from though. She moved over to Sasuke and gave him a warm smile.

"It's good to see you back Sweetie. We've been waiting a long time to see you again. I know you are really tired and not feeling good, so we'll give you some space right now. I'm going to go and see the kids and make sure they are doing well. Kai and Yin are both healthy and doing well. You don't worry about them, you focus on getting healthy yourself. I'll take care of them. You stay here with Shadow and your dad and when you are ready to see them I can bring them by."

"What do I do with them?" Sasuke asked sounding so lost and confused on what to do with that topic.

"That is not something you need to figure out right now. They are in the hospital just to be on the safe side. We have lots of time to figure out what to do when they can leave the hospital." Yoshino said not wanting to put any more stress onto Sasuke at the moment.

"Itachi should be here by then too Sasuke." Kakashi added.

"We'll get out of your hair so you can rest sweetie." Yoshino said with a warm smile.

She turned back to the others and started to guide them out. She put a comforting arm around Shikamaru's shoulders and guided him out of the room. Once the door was closed Shikaku spoke.

"You can't take what Sasuke is saying to heart son. His mind is very confused right now with the injuries and his exhaustion. Give him a couple of days to get rested and starting to feel better."

"That's not the point. I've been worried about him for three years and only to find out all of this. Now he doesn't want me around him. I know it's complicated, but I thought we could at least have been friends still. Now he doesn't want anything to do with me and I can't blame him. To Sasuke I betrayed him. He has every right to feel that way." Shikamaru said sadly.

"He'll be ok with it in time, sooner than you think Son. He just needs some rest and time to adjust to everything that is different." Shikaku said.

"You saw how his mind was working right now sweetie, it's not in a good place. Give him some time and Kakashi will speak to him. For now, why don't you head home and get some rest. You look dead on your feet." Yoshino said.

"What about you guys?" Shikamaru asked.

"I am going to see the little ones and make sure they are doing alright. I'll be home later to shower and change." Yoshino said.

"I'll come with you. Hurrio, why don't you take Shikamaru home."

"I was planning on doing just that." Hurrio said with a warm smile.

"I don't know if I really should just leave. What if something happens?" Shikamaru said still not comfortable with leaving Sasuke.

"Then someone will tell you. Babe, you need to take care of yourself too. You need a shower and some sleep." Hurrio said.

Shikamaru ran his hands over his face to try and collect himself for a moment before he spoke. "Ya, ok."

"Anything happens, we'll call sweetie." Yoshino said before she pulled Shikamaru in for a hug.

"Say hi to the kids for me."

"I will. You get home and rest. We'll be back later for dinner."

Shikamaru gave a nod and Hurrio put his hand into Shikamaru's and they headed outside.

"I'm really sorry baby. I didn't think he would react that way to me telling him who I was. I didn't even think, it just came out like it always does. I'm so sorry." Hurrio said with false sympathy.

"It's not your fault, it was going to come out eventually. You were right, it's not something I could hide from him forever. I just don't know what to do about any of this. I want to be there for him. I feel so guilty. I knew him the best, I should have known something else was going on. That he wouldn't have just left a letter like that."

"It's not your fault. Baby, there is no way you could have seen through this. This organization has been doing this for a long time. This wasn't something you could have been smart enough to see through. No one blames you for not being smart enough for this. Sasuke is messed up right now. The best thing you can do is give him space and let his life play out how it's meant to."

"How can I just leave him with this though?"

"He has Itachi and Kakashi there for him. He's not alone. Plus he has two kids to take care of now. You both have different lives compared to what they could have been if this didn't happen. You can't change your life for him or anyone. You need to be who you are now and not settle for something less because you feel guilty or obligated to. I know it's hard, you both didn't really get closure from his leaving, but in time you'll feel better. This is that breakup and it hurts, but you'll be ok. You are still free to live your life like you deserve. Sasuke will find his way."

"He's got two kids though, he's going to need help with them."

"And he has family to do that. You can't throw your life away to help raise two kids. Kids he might not even want anything to do with. The best thing you can do is keep moving on with your life and going to work. Keeping living your life and let Sasuke figure his out. I'm not saying don't see the kids. Based on your mother, they will be around the house fairly often, but don't allow yourself to be dragged into his drama. He's not the same Sasuke you knew. He's completely different, just like you are."

"That's true. We are different people. Maybe I shouldn't stress over it right now or too much. Only time will really tell what will happen between us. We might be able to be friends again one day, when he is ready. And the kids will be by the house often. I can still see them and help them. I don't want to turn my back on them. Sasuke was a big part of my life before. I don't want to turn my back on his kids and it's not fair to them. They need all the help and support they can get right now."

"And I would never tell you to not help a child. I just think you need to avoid any added Sasuke drama. Let Kakashi and Itachi worry about him, you focus on your life. You can't put your life on hold for someone else, that's not fair to you or right. You deserve better. I think it would be good for you to go back to work tomorrow. I'm sure there is a lot that needs to be done with all of the people we rescued yesterday."

"There will be. We need to find all of their parents or a relative. Try and track down where this organization could be next. You're right, I think I will tomorrow. I can't help Sasuke right now, but I can help other people that were involved in this."

"Exactly baby. I'm proud of you. This has been really hard on you and you're doing really well with it." Hurrio said with a warm smile.

"Thanks." Shikamaru said with a smile back as they got to his place.

They headed inside and Hurrio pulled Shikamaru over to him and gave him a kiss. Shikamaru kissed back and after a moment Hurrio pulled back slightly.

"I think I should help you in that shower. Help you reach all those hard to reach places."

"I don't know, I'm kinda tired."

"Nothing has to happen that you don't want to happen. You know that. It's just been a long time since we've been able to do anything. I've been busy on missions and we are alone right now." Hurrio said as he started to kiss Shikamaru's neck.

"We are alone and it has been about three weeks."

"Then stop thinking and get your sexy ass naked." Hurrio said as he started to unbutton Shikamaru's coat.

Shikamaru started to move back with Hurrio as he worked on Hurrio's jacket. Once they got into the bathroom they were both practically naked and Shikamaru was finding himself in the mood for some fun. Hurrio reached over and turned the shower on and got Shikamaru under the hot spray. Once in the shower Hurrio pushed Shikamaru up against the wall and started to kiss him. Hurrio licked Shikamaru's lip asking for permission, which was easily granted. Hurrio and Shikamaru's tongue dueled each other for control, but like always Hurrio always won. Hurrio started to grind their hard on together causing Shikamaru to let out a moan. Hurrio grabbed Shikamaru's left leg and put it around his hips and moved his hands so they grabbed Shikamaru's ass.

Hurrio started to kiss Shikamaru's neck and lightly suck on it as he moved his right index finger down Shikamaru's crack so it skimmed over his hole. Shikamaru moaned as Hurrio sucked hard enough to give him a hickey right on his neck.

"Do you trust me?" Hurrio asked with a husky voice into Shikamaru's ear.

"Yes."

"I'm going to make you feel real good. Make you scream for me." Hurrio said before he took Shikamaru's ear lobe between his teeth for a minute while he grabbed the body wash. He poured some of three of his fingers before he moved Shikamaru's leg and placed it on the edge of the tub. "Stay just like this."

Hurrio bent down and started to lick Shikamaru's hard on. Shikamaru moaned as Hurrio started to take him into his mouth while his right hand went to Shikamaru's ass. He ran his index finger over Shikamaru's hole to get it slicked up before he took Shikamaru deep in his mouth and he slowly inserted his finger.

"What are you doing Hurrio?" Shikamaru asked with a shaky breath as they had never done this before.

"Trust me." Hurrio said as he pulled off Shikamaru's cock.

Hurrio pushed his finger in the rest of the way as he looked up at Shikamaru.

"You are so tight." Hurrio gave Shikamaru's tip a suck before he continued. "Your sweet virgin ass is going to feel so good one day. Relax your walls it'll feel better baby."

Shikamaru tried to relax. He wasn't too sure about this. It just felt weird and not good. When Hurrio started to insert his second finger it started to sting. He could feel Hurrio moving his fingers inside of him, stretching him. Shikamaru knew that much from the books he had read, but he just didn't know if this was for him or not. That was until he felt Hurrio's finger rub something inside of him and Shikamaru let out a loud moan.

"That's it baby. Moan for me. That's the sweet spot. Just think how amazing it will feel when my cock is pounding against it."

Hurrio rubbed circles over Shikamaru's sweet spot and Shikamaru couldn't stop moaning. After a minute Hurrio added his third and final finger inside Shikamaru and really started to finger fuck Shikamaru. Shikamaru couldn't believe how good it felt. He was so hard, it was getting to be painful. He just wanted to cum with Hurrio's fingers inside of him.

"Hurrio, please."

"Please what baby? What do you need?"

"To cum, please I need to cum."

"Cum how? Do you want me to stop finger fucking you?"

"No, please don't stop."

"Then how can I make you cum baby? Tell me what you want." Hurrio said with a smirk. He loved Shikamaru like this at his mercy. There was nothing more hot to him than being in control over someone completely.

"I want your mouth on me."

"My mouth eh?" Like here?" Hurrio said as he kissed Shikamaru's thigh.

"No, baby please." Shikamaru whined in between moans.

"Say it or I'm not doing it. You know what I want to hear baby." Hurrio said as he started to fuck Shikamaru faster.

Shikamaru gave a deep moan as his legs started to tremble. "I want your mouth on my cock. I want to cum down your throat."

"You want me to suck your dick baby?"

"Yes."

"Beg me for it. Beg me for the release." Hurrio said with a smirk as he did fast circles on Shikamaru's sweet spot causing him to let out a small scream.

"Please Hurrio, please suck my cock. I need to cum, please."

"Good boy."

Hurrio took Shikamaru deep into his mouth and Shikamaru let out a small scream again. Hurrio moved fast up and down Shikamaru's cock and it only took a minute before Shikamaru was screaming out Hurrio's name as he cam hard into Hurrio's mouth. Once Hurrio had swallowed everything Shikamaru had for him he removed his fingers from Shikamaru's ass. Shikamaru was shaky on his legs and breathing heavy. Hurrio stood up and pulled Shikamaru in for a rough kiss, shoving his tongue into Shikamaru's mouth so Shikamaru could taste his own cum. After a minute he pulled back as he spoke.

"How did you like that?"

"That surprisingly felt amazing." Shikamaru said with a shaky voice.

"I think I need to pick us up some toys. You wouldn't believe how amazing I could make you feel baby."

"I guess that would depend on what they are. Now it's my turn to return the favour."

"I don't like being finger fucked, but there is something you could do that you haven't done before."

"What's that?" Shikamaru asked being willing to try anything with Hurrio.

"I want you to rim me. It feels so fucking good."

"What is that?" Shikamaru asked confused.

"It's when you fuck me with your tongue."

"Really?" Shikamaru said not really sure about doing something like that.

"It feels amazing baby. I made you feel amazing, now it's your turn." Hurrio said as he started to kiss Shikamaru's neck. "You'd do that for me wouldn't you baby?"

"I just never thought about it. I guess it doesn't hurt to try it once right?" Shikamaru said slightly unsure.

"Right baby. Get on your knees." Hurrio switched their positions so he could face the shower wall.

He put his hands on the wall and bent forward slightly. Shikamaru got down on his knees as Hurrio spoke.

"You just grab my ass and give my hole a little lick, just a taste."

Shikamaru moved and grabbed Hurrio's ass and spread his cheeks apart so he could see Hurrio's hole. Shikamaru moved forward and gave Hurrio's hole a small lick. It didn't taste like anything so he tried it again, but longer this time.

"That's it baby." Hurrio moaned.

Shikamaru continued to lick at Hurrio's hole for a few minutes while Hurrio moaned. Shikamaru wasn't sure why this felt good for Hurrio, but he was willing to give him the pleasure that he had just received.

"That's good baby, now stick your tongue in. Fuck me with it."

Shikamaru slowly pushed his tongue into Hurrio's hole and Hurrio gave a deep moan.

"That's it baby. Get nice and deep."

Shikamaru pushed his tongue in as far as he could go. He didn't really like this too much, but it was causing so much pleasure to Hurrio he was willing to do it. Shikamaru did it for a few minutes as Hurrio moaned and pushed back against Shikamaru's tongue to make sure he was as deep as he could be.

"Fuck eat my ass baby. You're so good it this, fuck you make me feel amazing."

Hurrio couldn't believe he was able to get Shikamaru to do this. It had taken him close to a year to get Shikamaru to do much of anything and now he was finally able to get Shikamaru where he wanted him. Hurrio enjoyed being rim, but it was all about being in control of the situation. It was more pleasurable knowing he could get someone to lick his ass. Hurrio had plans for Shikamaru and he couldn't wait to do them all with him. He would make sure Shikamaru stayed as his and no one else's, especially Sasuke's. After a few more minutes Hurrio moved so he could turn around.

"Take me deep baby. I'm gonna explode soon."

Shikamaru took Hurrio deep into his mouth and worked his cock hard. Hurrio was so turned on he knew he wouldn't last long. After only a minute he put his hand in Shikamaru's hair and squeezed hard and pulled his head back.

"Open your mouth, stick your tongue out for me."

Shikamaru did as instructed and Hurrio used his free hand to jerk himself off the rest of the way. He cam hard and made sure it didn't get all in Shikamaru's mouth. He made sure he cam all over Shikamaru's face. Hurrio then moved his cock so it rubbed in his cum on Shikamaru's face before he ran it over Shikamaru's tongue.

"You are so sexy right now." Hurrio moaned as he continued. "One day I'm going to fuck you with my cum on your face. So fucking sexy."

Hurrio used his finger and wiped some cum off Shikamaru's face and he placed it in Shikamaru's mouth. "Suck it clean baby."

Shikamaru sucked on Hurrio's finger and got it clean from the cum. Hurrio did it over and over again until his cum was off Shikamaru's face. He then pulled Shikamaru up and still with his hand in his hair gave him a rough and hard kiss. Shikamaru tried to keep up and Hurrio bit Shikamaru's bottom lip before he pulled back.

"You are so sexy baby. I'll never get enough of you."

"This was different."

"Different is ok though baby. We're young, we're in love, we get to experiment with each other and see what we like and what we don't. It's all just fun. Didn't you like being finger fucked baby?"

"No I did and you're right, we can experiment with each other. What you did felt amazing."

"You mean me fucking you with my fingers?" Hurrio asked with a smirk.

"Yes I loved being finger fucked by you." Shikamaru said with a smile.

"Then we'll do it again, hopefully very soon. For now let's get you cleaned up and in bed." Hurrio said with a kiss before he turned and they both got cleaned up and ready for bed.

They went into Shikamaru's bedroom once they were dried off and Shikamaru went to get them something to sleep in. Hurrio grabbed his hand and brought him over to the bed.

"We don't bed any clothes. Sleeping with your sweet ass against my cock is all the warmth I need."

Hurrio pulled Shikamaru into bed and turned him so his back was against his chest. Hurrio grabbed Shikamaru's hips and pulled him so his ass was right against his cock.

"There all comfy now. And when we wake up, we won't have to worry about clothes getting in our way." Hurrio said as he sucked on Shikamaru's ear lobe.

"I'm too tired for another round right now." Shikamaru said as he pulled the covers higher.

"I know. But when you wake up I make no promises about behaving myself."

"Fine by me."

"Goodnight baby." Hurrio said with a kiss to his neck.

"Goodnight."

Hurrio held onto Shikamaru and watched as he fell asleep. Hurrio was already going over everything he would need to get mentally to start exploding their sexual life. He was going to get some toys and show Shikamaru a whole new world. He would show Shikamaru that being controlled was the best life for him. Shikamaru would be his pet in the bedroom and out of the bedroom. He just had to get the ground work started.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Tsunade walked into Sasuke's hospital room to see that Sasuke was awake. He looked exhausted and distress though and Tsunade could see that he no longer had the IV in his arm. Based on the blood, Tsunade figured it was safe to assume he removed it.

"Hello Sasuke, how are you feeling?"

Sasuke didn't say anything though, he just curled into Shadow more.

"He's doing as well as to be expected. He did take his IV out and he knows he needs it back in." Kakashi said.

"Do we know why he took it out?" Tsunade asked.

"Drugs are bad." Sasuke said with fear in his voice.

"Oh, ok. This drug though Sasuke is just like special water. It will help with your pneumonia so you can breathe and start feeling better. It will also help give you some nutrients and keep you hydrated. It's really important for you to have right now, especially if you want to get out of here. I really need to put it back in, ok?" Tsunade asked gently. She didn't want to force anything onto Sasuke, but she also had to make sure he was ok.

Sasuke looked over at Kakashi and he gave an encouraging nod. Sasuke gave a nod as well and Tsunade went about getting the IV back in as quickly as possible.

"How are you feeling Sasuke. Any headache or pain anywhere?"

"Hurts." Sasuke said softly.

"What hurts Sasuke?" Tsunade asked gently.

"Everything. Legs feel tingly. Head foggy. Like walking through sludge."

"And all of that is normal Sasuke. You have a lot of injuries, especially to your mind. Your mind is going to feel sluggish and foggy for a few months, but it will get better. Your legs are fine, but your previous injury is irritated from the past three years. You'll need to walk with a cane again for a little. You are going to be in pain and sore some days from it, but it'll be ok." Tsunade knew that there were a lot more complicated injuries to Sasuke, but right now was not the time to discuss it.

"I told Sasuke, that he had stitches on his stomach that he needed to be careful with." Kakashi added.

"Yes, Sasuke you need to watch moving around for a little while so they can heal. I also need to check them and make sure they are healing properly."

"Touching is bad." Sasuke said with a shaky voice.

"It's okay son, Tsunade won't hurt you. She just needs to check your stitches that's all." Kakashi said trying to soothe Sasuke.

The door to the room opened before anymore could be said. Itachi walked in and it was clear he was worried about Sasuke. Sasuke's eyes started to tear up at the sight of his brother.

"Niisan."

Itachi went right over to Sasuke and Tsunade moved back out of the way.

"Oboto, I've been looking everywhere for you." Itachi pulled Sasuke into a gentle hug, making sure he was careful of any potential injuries his brother could have.

"It was so bad." Sasuke said with tears going down his cheeks.

"Sh it's ok, it's over now little brother. You're safe now."

"Itachi, I need to check Sasuke's stitches on his stomach." Tsunade said hoping Itachi would be willing to help.

"Touching is bad. I didn't want it, I didn't want it." Sasuke cried again.

Itachi looked over at Kakashi and Kakashi could see the unasked question in them.

"Long story, not how you are thinking. Or how you are thinking I should say, but with a female."

Confusion flickered through Itachi's eyes, but he knew now was not the time to talk about it.

"What if I held you while Tsunade looked at them? Would that be ok little brother?"

"I only need a couple of minutes Sasuke, I promise." Tsunade said.

Sasuke gave a shaky nod as he knew they weren't going to let this go. Itachi moved so he could hold Sasuke against his chest. Tsunade went quickly and moved Sasuke's shirt up and Itachi couldn't believe how thin and how many bruises covered Sasuke's torso. Whatever happened these past three years, it was nothing good. Tsunade kept her word and after two minutes she spoke as she put Sasuke's shirt back down.

"They are a little irritated, so you need to be careful with moving Sasuke. But none are pulled so they will continue to heal nicely."

"The best thing for you to do right now Sasuke is get some sleep. You're exhausted, you need rest." Kakashi said,

"I don't feel well." Sasuke said as he curled into Itachi's arms.

"I know Son. You need sleep. Why don't you lay down and I'll put a cool cloth on your forehead to help make you feel a bit better." Kakashi suggested, ignoring the weird look Itachi gave him at the word son.

Sasuke gave a sleepy nod and Itachi moved out of the way to help get Sasuke down. Sasuke curled up on his right side and Shadow curled up with him. Itachi ran his hand through Sasuke's hair as Kakashi got a cloth damp with cold water. He placed it on Sasuke's forehead to try and help soothe any fever he might have and hopefully help him feel better enough to fall asleep. They all stayed in the room until they were certain that Sasuke was fast asleep.

"Stay with him Shadow. I'll be right back." Kakashi whispered.

The three of them headed out of the room and Itachi didn't even waste a second before he spoke with a deadly tone.

"You called him son. Why would you call my little brother that Kakashi?" Itachi wasn't going to let anyone take advantage of Sasuke for any reason.

"You've been gone for ten years, you don't get to make judgements like that or pretend to know anything about him. I call him son, because to me he is my son. I love him like my son and he calls me dad, for the same reason." Kakashi explained, but the anger was clear in his voice.

"You both have a lot to discuss, in the meantime I'd like to go over the more important information. Like his health and what has happened in the past three years." Tsunade said clearly not looking to be in the middle of this conversation that would come shortly.

"And that would be what?" Itachi snapped.

"The note that was left three years ago was not written by Sasuke. A young boy and his father came to Kakashi and informed him that Sasuke hadn't left willingly. He was captured by two men involved in an underground fighting ring, for lack of a better word. He was kept in a small room, with Shadow who was a puppy at the time. He was tortured and forced to fight other captives. He was also drugged and raped by female captives until that captive became pregnant and gave birth. At that point she was killed and the child was in the room with the father. Long story short, Sasuke has two children, a year old son name Kai and an eight month old daughter named Yin." Tsunade started.

"This whole time he's been trapped there? And this organization?" Itachi asked with barely controlled anger.

"I took multiple squads to the location. There was just shy of a hundred captives, not including the children. The whole place was empty of any guard. They are in the wind right now." Kakashi answered.

"Your niece and nephew are alright. Kai does have some delayed developments in the form of walking and talking, but with time he will catch back up. They just need food and rest for now. They are in the Pediatric wing. Sasuke has many injuries to his brain, it is why is speech is scattered. They will heal, but it will take roughly six months. He has three dics in his back that have dissolved from the torture and conditions of the past three years. He will need back surgery to fix it, but it's not something I can do until he is more physically healed. His left leg was broken in three places previously, but it is healed. It didn't heal properly, but the only way I can repair it would be to break it in those three places. It would be a lot of pain for something that just isn't worth it. He'll need to walk with a cane until his legs have regained some strength. Three years ago Sasuke was injured as you know. He had to learn how to walk again, that old injury is acting up. He also has a severe case of pneumonia that he is on medication for. The best thing for Sasuke right now is to sleep and start eating again." Tsunade explained.

"And you have nothing on these assholes?" Itachi asked with rage throughout his voice.

"No one is talking. We have a hundred and twenty-two victims, children included, but no one is talking and the ones that do know nothing." Tsunade answered.

"How could you let this happen?" Itachi asked Kakashi with pure rage in his voice.

"Me? I've been looking for him for three years. While you put a mission ahead of him." Kakashi snapped back.

"I trusted him with you." Itachi said,

"The only ones to blame for this are the ones that took Sasuke and run this organization. Now, we need to discuss where Sasuke and the children will go once they are released." Tsunade said not looking to see where this argument would have led.

"With me. I am their legal guardian until Sasuke turns eighteen." Itachi said not liking the question at all.

"Except you lost that guardianship when you left at thirteen. No new papers have been filed, not to mention Sasuke is sixteen and old enough to make the decision himself." Kakashi argued.

"He can't until his mind is cleared medically. This is a decision you both have to make together." Tsunade said.

"He's living with me where he is safe." Itachi said as he turned to look at Kakashi. He wasn't expecting anyone to fight him on this.

"He's my son Itachi. He should be with me. Him and the kids should be with me, where I can help take care of them. You are not equipped or mature enough for this."

"I'm not mature enough? I've been a ninja since I was seven, in ANBU at eleven. I was more mature than you at eleven than you are now. I killed my family for him. There is no one safer but me for my brother and his children." Itachi said pissed that Kakashi would ever call him immature.

"That does not mean you are able to handle raising the three of them. Sasuke needs constant looking after right now until he is healed. Not to mention the mental and emotional pain he will be in. Yin is just an infant and Kai is a two year old that has been in hell his whole life. You're an amazing ninja, but you and I both know the second any information about this organization comes up you'll leave and kill them until the very last one is dead. You can't do this." Kakashi argued as their voices raised.

"That's enough both of you. This is a hospital, people are trying to heal. Take this argument to Kakashi's apartment and then come back here when you have an agreement." Tsunade ordered.

"I'm not leaving him." Itachi argued back.

"I'm not either." Kakashi agreed.

"Make a clone to watch him. Both of you get out and don't come back until you have come to an adult decision about these three traumatised kids. Now." Tsunade said too tired to be dealing with any added drama.

Kakashi let out a sigh as he made a shadow clone of himself and Itachi did the same thing.

"You remember where I live?" Kakashi asked with a tight voice.

"Hn." Itachi just said before he disappeared.

"Asshole." Kakashi said under his breath before he too headed out. The clones went into Sasuke's room and waited until the originals returned. Tsunade gave her head a shake and she couldn't help but wonder how badly they were going to be injured when they returned.

Kakashi arrived at his apartment to see Itachi already there and he still looked pissed, which was as much emotion he had seen on Itachi's face since he had known him. Kakashi ignored Itachi as he unlocked his door and headed inside. Itachi slammed the door behind him and Kakashi knew it was on.

"What right do you have to come here after being gone for almost a decade and just decide that Sasuke would live with you?" Kakashi yelled.

"I was away on a mission. A mission I had to take because I kept my brother alive. I killed my family, my parents for him. I spent a decade with some of the worst criminals in the world, for him. So what right do you have to tell me that I'm not good enough for them when you were the one that lost him? Why should I ever let you around any of them when you didn't even know he was captured? You failed him Kakashi, again!" Itachi yelled as he got closer breathing heavy.

"I failed him? I didn't know he was captured and I still spent the past three years trying to find him. I got him out. I got them out and back home. None of this might not have happened if you had grown some balls and stood up against the Council and refused to leave. If you had decided to be a real brother to him and not put him second to the village. The second the village needs you, you'll leave them on their own to deal with it again. Killing your parents doesn't change that you left him on his own for seven years. He lived on the streets for fuck sake!" Kakashi said as he got into Itachi's face also breathing hard.

"I didn't have an option. They were going to kill him! You think it doesn't bother me? You think I didn't worry about him every second of every day. That killing them, my own parents meant nothing to me? They made a lot of mistakes, but they were still my parents and I killed them for him! You know nothing about sacrificing everything for someone! You are nothing but some playboy with no concept of responsibilities outside of your hounds!"

"I've been taking care of him since he was twelve. It's been me there at night when he was screaming from the nightmares! It was me that had to help him learn how to walk again. It was me who was there when he first had to kill someone! And you didn't have to kill them, you could have told me. I would have helped you figure something out. But of course you couldn't do that. You couldn't ask for help, you arrogant, egotistical, stubborn, son of a bitch!"

They were both just barely an inch apart breathing heavy. Kakashi had no idea what had taken over him, but it was like all of the pain and anger in the past three years was just coming out and Itachi was that target.

"I'm arrogant? You're the one parading around with your eye that you got from my dead cousin! The great copycat ninja and you weren't even smart enough to see that Sasuke was captured! You." Itachi was cut off when Kakashi pulled his mask down and pulled Itachi into a kiss.

Itachi didn't even hesitate to kiss back just as hard and fierce. Kakashi fisted the back of Itachi's hair as he slammed him back into the wall and grind their crotch together. They both moaned and Kakashi pulled Itachi away from the wall and down the hallway to his room. Itachi worked on removing Kakashi's clothes as they moved and fought for control over the kiss. By the time they reached the bedroom, they were both naked and their clothes had been scattered around the room and into the hallway. Kakashi pushed Itachi down onto the bed before he crawled on top of him and continued to kiss him. Kakashi forced Itachi's legs to open as he reached over to grab some lube out of the bedside drawer.

Itachi ran his hands over Kakashi's hair and gave it a pull, making Kakashi groan and grind their hard ons together. Kakashi got enough lube onto his fingers and he didnt even waste a second before he inserted one finger then quickly a second. Itachi ran his nails down Kakashi's back as he moaned into the kiss. Kakashi made quick work of finding Itachi's sweet spot and he knew he had it when Itachi broke the kiss and let out a loud moan. Itachi pushed his hips down so Kakashi's finger would go deeper. Kakashi started to suck and bite Itachi's neck as he added a third finger and aimed for Itachi's sweet spot each time. Itachi pulled Kakashi's hair and scratched down his back.

Once Kakashi was sure Itachi was stretched enough he took his fingers out and flipped Itachi so he was on his back. Itachi moved so he was on his hands and knees as Kakashi moved behind him. Kakashi lined up with Itachi's hole and pushed in. He took it slightly slow, but once he was balls deep he pulled all the way out ad slammed back in. Causing them both to moan. Itachi bent down on his elbows so his ass was more angled and Kakashi slammed into his sweet spot, causing Itachi to let out a small scream. Kakashi gripped Itachi's hip in a bruising grip and pounded into him deep and hard. They were both a moaning mess and Itachi met Kakashi's thrust with his own.

"Oh fuck." Itachi moaned as he moved his left hand to grip the top of the headboard.

Kakashi moaned as he grabbed a fitsfull of Itachi's hair and pulled it so he was not on his knees with his back against his chest. Kakashi kept his hand in Itachi's hair as he tilted his head back so he could bite and suck on Itachi's neck, causing Itachi to moan. Itachi moved his left hand to Kakashi's ass to keep Kakashi nice and deep inside of him.

"So tight." Kakashi moaned as he picked up his pace.

Itachi dug his nails into Kakashi's ass so hard, Kakashi would be surprised if there wasn't blood. They were both close, that much was obvious.

"Make yourself cum. I want to feel it." Kakashi said as he sucked hard on the back of Itachi's neck.

Itachi moved his hand and started to jerk himself off in time with Kakashi's hard thrusts. It was barely five minutes later when Itachi was cumming with a loud scream. The pressure around Kakashi's dick was too much and with a final shove he cam hard and deep buried inside Itachi's ass with a heavy groan himself. Both were a mess of sweat and heavy breathing. Kakashi let go of Itachi's hair and Itachi allowed his body to fall forward so he was on his hands and knees once again. Kakashi gently pulled himself out of Itachi's ass and rolled onto his back beside him. Itachi still breathing heavy got up and went into the connecting bathroom to get cleaned up, giving Kakashi's mind some time to catch up to what had just happened.

He just had sex with Itachi, Uchiha Itachi. He was in a loving relationship with Iruka, but he just had sex with Itachi. Very angry and very hot sex, quite possibly the best sex he's ever had. Kakashi had no idea how this had happened. He had shown Itachi his face, that never happens. Kakashi knew he was pissed, but he had no idea how he had ever gone from pissed to pounding the life out of Itachi in his bed. Only once before had Kakashi ever does something sexual in the heat of an argument and that was when he was seventeen with Itachi. This made no sense and he had no idea what Itachi was going to do now.

Itachi came out of the bathroom and grabbed his pants as he spoke.

"We should live together."

"What?" Kakashi asked confused as he got up himself and grabbed his pants.

"Neither one of us wants to let Sasuke live with the other. The compromise would be to live together. Find a house with a finished basement. One sleeps up with them and the other downstairs. Everyone gets what they want." Itachi explained as he continued to get dressed.

Kakashi had to admit that was a very adult and obvious solution. One they should have figured out if they hadn't been so pissed off before.

"Who sleeps in the basement?"

"I will. Tactical advantage makes most sense for me to come from downstairs. My brother and his children have been through enough, even if the little ones won't remember it. They shouldn't have to be divided between us. I won't force my brother to choose between his brother and his father." Itachi said with an edge of pain to his voice.

"You're right, we shouldn't be fighting over who gets them. They need both of us in their lives and there is a lot of work where they are involved. The least we can do is be adult and civil about this for their sake. I'm sorry for what I said earlier. I'm so angry at myself and at the bastards who hurt him. I had no right to take it out on you." Kakashi said sincerely.

"I had no right to take it out on you for the situation. This isn't how I expected my mission to end. I have no right to take my problems out on you. For the record, when there is any information on this organization I plan on killing every last one of them."

"You won't hear an argument from me." Kakashi said with hatred in his voice, that Itachi knew wasn't directed towards him.

Itachi made his way out into the living room to gather the rest of his clothes and Kakashi followed. Once they were both dressed Itachi went over to the door, but stopped and turned around.

"I was going to tell you. That last night, I was going to tell you. I wanted to tell you so badly, but in the end I couldn't do that to you."

"Do what Itachi? Hold the secret?" Kakashi asked gently as he desperately wanted answers about this for close to a decade now.

"No, I knew you could keep a secret better than anyone. I knew you would stand by the village to avoid another war. If I had told you, you would have wanted to fix it. You were the only person that would have been able to convince me to take Sasuke and run. You would have done it yourself. Risked your life just so I wouldn't have had to commit genocide. I couldn't do that to you."

"You're damn right I would have taken your place. You were thirteen, they were your family. As screwed up as they were, they were your family, your parents. You don't deserve that level of pain. I would have helped you. I would have spent the last ten years with you, watching your back. I know it would have destroyed you, killing your parents. The pain you would have felt doing it and then Sasuke walks into the room in the middle of it all. That's a wound to your heart that will never heal, no matter how much time has past." Kakashi said sadly for Itachi.

"I almost didn't do it. They were on their knees facing away from me for five minutes while I fought to hold the sword. They could have fought me, they could have ran, but they didn't. They accepted that I had picked a different side. They didn't even ask about Sasuke. I'll never be able to forget. I'll never get their blood off my sword. I did it for a better life for Sasuke, for Konoha. Maybe a life on the run would have been better for him if I had taken him away that night." Itachi said sounding full of remorse.

"Don't do that. Don't second guess your choices, especially ones made so long ago. Sasuke survived. He survived everything that has happened to him and he will survive this. But this time he has the both of us there to make sure his life is something so much more. He can't be a ninja again, he gets to be anyone he wants now. The whole world is in the palm of his hand, we just have to get him healthy again."

"I hope he takes them and he travels the world. Shows them what he fought for. He deserves a much better life than that of a ninja. It's too late for us, we've seen and done too much. But Sasuke has a chance at seeing the beauty in this world without it being clouded over by shadows. I hope he takes it."

"He will. We get him healthy and he will. I'm worried about the children. He hasn't even asked about them yet."

"They are a product of rape. He might want nothing to do with them, that's his right and choice. I won't give them up Kakashi."

"I won't either, but Shikamaru's parents, Yoshino and Shikaku have offered to let them stay at there house from time to time when a break is needed. We might need to give them up for a night or a weekend to try and get Sasuke to miss them. I think he'll come around eventually once his mind has had the chance to process everything. It's going to be hard at first though,"

"He'll get through it. No one can make him want them, it has to be his decision and his alone. He's a good kid, he'll make the right choice in the end."

"I believe so." Kakashi easily agreed.

"I need to get back to him. I'll see you later."

"I'll be there shortly, just need to make a stop first."

Itachi gave a nod and turned to head out of the house. Kakashi followed and made sure the door was locked before they both took off in different directions. Itachi made his way back to the hospital so he could be with Sasuke and see his niece and nephew. While Kakashi had to go and speak to someone about what had just happened.

Itachi arrived at the hospital he went to see the little ones first. He knew from his clone that Sasuke was still sound asleep safe. He wanted to check on the children first and make sure they were alright and cared for. Itachi arrived at the room and saw who he assumed was Shikamaru's parents in the room. The little boy was in Yoshino's lap while Yin was asleep in the incubator. Itachi went over to the incubator as he spoke.

"You must be the Nara boy's parents."

"I'm Shikaku and this is my wife Yoshino. Our son is Shikamaru. Have you been informed of what has happened?"

"I am. I just wanted to check on them before going back to Sasuke."

"How is he?" Yoshino asked concerned.

"Sleeping. He seems very attached to the dog."

"Shadow. He got him as a puppy for a companion. Shadow was taken with Sasuke at the time to make it more believable. He's been through a lot the poor dog. He did everything he could to keep them all safe and warm in that awful room." Yoshino answered.

"I don't think Sasuke would know what to do without him around." Shikaku added.

"Do you like dogs?" Yoshino asked.

"I like that dog." Itachi said with a shrug as he put his hand through the allowed hole in the incubator. Shikamaru's parents knew that Itachi wasn't a dog person then, but he would put up with one because it meant so much to Sasuke.

"She's doing well. She is having a harder time with her body temperature and keeping it up, but Tsunade said it was to be expected with how small she is and where she was kept. Kai is doing really well. We've been working on walking and trying to get him to make some sounds so he can start to talk." Yoshino said trying her best to be friendly with Itachi, because she knew he wasn't going anywhere.

"Tsunade said he was having some delays due to the conditions. Children learn quick in the right environment. When can they be released?"

"I believe it was a week Tsunade said, but she might keep them here longer if she has any concerns. Shikaku answered.

"Do you have a place to stay Itachi? You could stay with us if you'd like until you found a place. I'm not really sure what is going to happen with Sasuke and the little ones." Yoshino offered.

"Thank-you, that's nice for you to offer, but I'll be with Sasuke the whole time. As for living arrangements Kakashi and I have agreed to get a place together and raise them. He did mention that you had an interest in having them as well."

"Only part-time. It was just in case Sasuke wasn't mentally ready for them yet. I didn't want him to get healthy and better again only to discover his children are gone forever. I didn't want that regret hanging over him or for them to be broken up in the system. It's good that they can be with family and Sasuke can still see them all the time." Yoshino answered.

"I appreciate that. Not many people in this world would offer what you were willing to do. And if you'd still like to help Kakashi and I would not be saying no to it. Some time with the kids away might be what Sasuke needs in the future to discover what they truly mean to him."

"I agree and the offer will alway stand, even if it is for just a weekend here and there. Kia is afraid of the dark and to sleep alone. Yin sleeps very well for her age, but now that she is eating properly she is making up for lost time with waking every two hours for food." Yoshino said.

"It's good that she is eating well. And a fear of the dark is to be expected in them. It wouldn't surprise me if Sasuke has the same problem. All fears can be worked through and overcome with the right amount of time and love. I need to get back to Sasuke. Thank-you for everything you've done for them, for Sasuke. You've become like parents to him and for a child that never had that growing up, it means a lot to him. I'll forever be in your debt."

"Oh sweetie, it's what you do for family. You're family now, whether you like it or not. I expect to see you at family dinners with the rest of us. We have three years to make up for, so you get ready for a lot of family time."

"And being kicked out of your own kitchen." Shikaku said with a smile.

"I can't cook, so I won't complain."

"You can't cook? Didn't your mother ever teach you?" Yoshino asked gently.

"No she wasn't much of one either. She taught me how to bake and I know how to make grilled cheese sandwiches, Sasuke's favorite. Other than that I'm more of a open a can type of cook." Itachi admitted with a shrug.

"Oh no." Shikaku said as he already knew what was coming.

"No, no, no mister that will not do. Every man needs to know how to cook to give his wife or husband the night off. Not to mention these little ones need more than grilled cheese sandwiches to survive. I am going to teach you how to cook. We'll start off small and simple and work up from there. Breakfast, we'll start with breakfast. The most important meal of the day, especially to young minds, but you can also cook it anytime of the day. We get them in their new home, I'm teaching you how to cook."

"Don't try and fight it son, once she gets an idea in her mind it's a done deal. She will be over bright and early one morning with shopping bags and a very loud voice. Accept your fate and move on to a battle you could win." Shikaku said with sympathy in his voice.

"Learning to cook other food might be beneficial as I don't know if Kakashi can cook. I enjoy learning new things. As long as we don't burn down the house it can't hurt to try." Itachi said, though it was clear he was uncomfortable with this conversation.

He used to be somewhat good at social conversations, but after being gone for so long he wasn't used to nice people. It was going to take him some time to get used to being around normal people again.

"There's the spirit. You go be with Sasuke, we'll be here until around dinner time before we need to head home and get cleaned up and changed." Yoshino said warmly.

Itachi gave a nod and headed out of the room and back to Sasuke's room. Itachi didn't know how he felt about the Nara's but they seemed like nice people and Sasuke seemed to be close to them after what happened the last time Itachi had to come to Konoha. Itachi was willing to adapt and be what Sasuke needed him to be in order for Sasuke to get better. Itachi walked in and saw the clones were still there and Sasuke still in the same position. Itachi released his clone and punched Kakashi's clone to make it disappear. Itachi wasn't about to have Kakashi, clone or not, hanging around with him while he was with his brother. Sasuke was more than safe with him there. Itachi removed his coat and placed it on the back of a chair before he got up on the bed and laid down with his chest against Sasuke's back. Shadow's head popped up, but Itachi placed his hand on Shadow's back and Shadow went back to laying down. Itachi placed a gentle kiss to the back of Sasuke's head before he took a deep breath in and closed his eyes. Allowing himself to rest knowing that Sasuke was safe once again.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Kakashi arrived at Asuma's home and knocked on the door. He needed to talk about this to someone and the only person he could think of that wouldn't judge him was Asuma. After a moment Asuma opened the door and gave Kakashi a warm smile.

"Kakashi, I didn't expect to see you here. Come in."

Asuma moved back to allow Kakashi to enter before he closed the door. He spoke as he made his way over to sit down on the couch.

"What brings you by? How is Sasuke?"

"He's as well as to be expected. He woke up and Tsunade said he's healing well. His mind is very confused and scrambled."

"Well that is to be expected I would imagine with the number of head injuries he has. How are you doing with all of this?"

"I had sex with Itachi." Kakashi said as he started to pace around.

"Wait what?" Asuma asked shocked and confused.

"Yup." Kakashi simply said.

"When?"

"Just now."

"When did Itachi get back to the village?" Asuma had no idea what was going on.

"About two hours ago."

"How do you have sex with someone that you haven't seen in almost a decade inside of two hours? Why did you have sex with him?" Asuma asked stills hocked, but there was no judgement in his voice at least.

"It just happened. We were arguing at the hospital about where Sasuke and the kids will live. I want them with me and he wanted them with him. Tsunade kicked us out and told us not to come back until we had made a decision. We went to my place, where more arguing happened and the next thing I know I'm pulling my mask down and kissing him. That turned into angry hot sex."

"How do you go from arguing with someone to having sex with them? Especially someone that is not your boyfriend."

"I don't know what happened. I've had arguments before with people, even 've screamed at each other, but never has it ever become something more. I showed him my face, Iruka has never seen it. I don't understand how this happened again."

"Again? When did you have sex with Itachi before?" Asuma's mind was literally blown in this moment.

"Not sex. It was the night before the massacre. We were at my place arguing about something unimportant and next thing I know were making out and dry humping on my couch. He was the first guy I ever did anything with. Before that I didn't even know I liked guys too."

"Ah, ok. Now it makes sense."

"Nothing about this makes sense."

"No it does. Itachi was your first, not the virgin first, but your first encounter with a boy. He's the one that opened the floodgates and allowed you to see that you were bi-sexual. There's something about Itachi that your mind can't stop liking or finding attractive. Even after all these years that attraction you have is still there and apparently extremely strong."

"But I'm old enough to not act on that attraction. I cheated on Iruka, with Uchiha Itachi of all people. After everything Iruka and I have been through, after the past three years I've cheated on him, on the man that I love."

"Just because you love someone, doesn't mean you are meant to be."

"And that person is Itachi?" Kakashi asked skeptical.

"I'm not saying that. This could have easily been just the past three years exploding and Itachi was that person there for it. It could also be that on a subconscious level you both are attracted to each other. Sometimes things happen that we can't explain. Some people who are completely wrong for each other are actually perfect for each other. I'm not saying that is the case, but it's possible Iruka isn't the man you were meant to be with. Sometimes no matter how much we love someone we don't end up with them. What are you going to tell Iruka?"

"Nothing. It won't happen again. I'm not going to tell him. There's no reason to. It was a mistake and it won't happen again. I won't let it."

"Well only time will tell on that one. I think you should tell Iruka, but it's your choice. I highly doubt Itachi would say anything. He could sleep with every village leader and no one would know about it. What was it like?"

"Amazing. It was the best sex of my life." Kakashi answered and he plopped down in the chair.

"I'm shocked that he's gay. I always thought he would be more asexual than anything. You didn't take his virginity right?" Asuma asked as that would have complicated things.

"If he was a virgin he was the most open minded and fearless virgin in history. He was tight, but he wasn't virgin tight. I'm confident in that at least."

"What was he like afterwards? It had to be awkward."

"It wasn't. He got cleaned up in the bathroom than said we should live together."

"What?" Asuma asked confused.

"I have to admit I was a little worried about it at first, but it makes sense. We both want Sasuke and the kids to ourselves, Itachi argued that it would make more sense for all of us to live together. We can find a house with a finished basement for one of us to sleep in. Sasuke and the kids get both of us and we both get to be with them. I also don't have to worry about Itachi leaving them alone to hunt down this organization and Itachi gets to kill them without feeling guilty. It was a simple compromise that I should have suggested from the start."

"Well, that does make perfect sense. How are you going to live with Itachi though while you date Iruka. Does Itachi even know you are dating someone?"

"Nope. I'm going to have to talk to Itachi about it and explain that it was a mistake that can't happen again. I don't see him caring. Itachi isn't the type. Itachi only cares about Sasuke, the kids and killing these bastards. As long as nothing gets in the way of those three things he won't care what anyone does."

"And you are sure that you living with Itachi would be the smartest thing?"

"I won't let what happened, happen again. We are just going to work together to take care of Sasuke and the kids. It's going to be a lot of work it'll be good to have Itachi around to help with them. It takes some pressure and stress off my shoulders."

"It would make the most sense for you both to be living together and raising them. If you think it won't be a problem then I'll support you on it. I still think you should tell Iruka about what happened, but no one can make you."

"I won't happen again. Iruka has been through enough in the past three years, he doesn't need this to go with it. Everything will be fine."

"If you are sure. Where is Itachi now?"

"He wen back to the hospital. I should get going. I don't want to be gone if Sasuke wakes up again. He didn't handle it well the first time."

"He'll recover from this old friend, don't worry too much about it. Go be with your son and let me know if there is anything you need help with."

"I will thank-you Asuma." Kakashi said with a warm smile.

"Anytime, you know that. Go be with your son." Asuma said with a friendly smile.

Kakashi headed out of the house and made his way down the street. He didn't know what would happen in the future, but he did know he wasn't going to hurt Iruka like this again. It was a one time thing and he would not let it repeat itself. It was just the stress and anger of the last three years that had exploded. Kakashi would not let it happen again. Him and Itachi were just going to be two adults working together to raise these kids and be there for Sasuke in his recovery. With that determination Kakashi headed to the hospital and into Sasuke's room. He had to stand there for a moment and taken in the sight that greeted him. There in the room was Itachi curled up with Sasuke in his arms and Shadow curled up beside them.

Kakashi went over to the chair on the right side of the bed. He knew that Itachi was lightly sleeping, but he would be deadly if someone was a threat to Sasuke. Kakashi couldn't help but notice how peaceful Itachi looked asleep with Sasuke in his arms. Kakashi knew that Itachi had also been through some horrific experiences within the past decade and he would have his own problems. Kakashi was hoping they would be able to survive this and not destroy each other. They both wanted Sasuke and the kids safe and healthy. Hopefully together they would be able to get them all through this and onto a better life. Kakashi knew only time would tell what would come from this new arrangement.