A/N: Hi all, =) I am terribly sorry for not updating earlier but I have had a lot on my mind and it took an eight hours long stay at the hospital before my muse got back in action, ^^" But he's up and kicking, so I've been writing every minute I'm not working or sleeping, pretty much. Planting pine tree seedlings is tough, which means I sleep more and write less which sucks but.. you have to work to earn money.

See first chapter for warnings. Again, I apologize if I've managed to offend somebody, ^^"

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto, Masashi Kishimoto does.


Chapter Two

Meeting an intriguing young woman


Bright. A little too bright actually. What was bright and warm..? Ah. Sun.

Letting out a soft groan, the sunbathed blond blinked bleary eyes open and immediately squeezed them shut again when a playful sunbeam shot right into his hazy mind. Sighing, he lifted a hand and shielded his eyes, opening them again. Since when was there this much sunshine in his bedroom? … Bedroom? What the hell was he sleeping on the couch for? No, wait. Not his couch, that one was bluish, this was black.

-Where am I?-

he thought with wonder, looking around the room with big eyes. Large TV, soft white walls, huge windows with airy white curtains. Definitively not home.

-It's bright.-

he thought, a soft smile gracing his lips as he sat up and looked around. There was a crossword magazine on the table, a mug with some tea left sitting beside it. He was slightly startled when he heard someone walk over the floor in the next room and he quickly turned his head towards the sound he felt more than he heard. A moment later, a tall raven walked into the room, eyes on the tray he was balancing on his arms, holding two steaming cups in his hands, a look of deepest concentration on his face.

-Sasuke-

Naruto smiled warmly at the man who suddenly looked up, an expression of confusion and surprise on his face before he suddenly smiled, a smile that quickly morphed into a small smirk. Naruto waved a hand, smiling slightly and Sasuke nodded to him then put the tray and mugs down before he signed,

Good morning. Slept well?

Yes. That looks good.

Naruto signed, pointing at the toasted bread with butter and honey and cheese. Sasuke let out a soft laugh then nodded and signed,

I will get milk then we will eat.

Naruto nodded, smiling slightly. Sasuke walked out of the room again and the blond looked at the food, grinning. It certainly looked good and it smelled wonderful. There was tea in the mugs and Naruto was about to reach out and take one of them when a he noticed a piece of paper lying on the floor. Frowning, he bent down and picked it up, his lips stretching in a sunny smile as he read it.

Morning, Nar.

If you wake up before me, feel free to take whatever you want from the fridge and cabinets.

Tea's in the black box on the shelf above the stove.

Sasuke

Naruto looked up when Sasuke entered the room again and grinned at the raven, jumping up and rushing over to the surprised man, kissing his cheek swiftly before he continued towards the bathroom.

Sasuke blinked a couple of times then he turned his head, leaning back slightly as he looked after the blond who without explanation had suddenly kissed him. Shaking his head, the raven continued to the table and put the milk down before taking his seat in the rocking chair, leaning back a little too far and almost shouting out in fright when it tipped back too abruptly. His heart pounded wildly in his chest as the chair stayed tipped back deeply then he sighed and settled. He liked staying like this, when he had control over the motion.

Naruto walked back into the room, his steps very silent and he grinned mischievously when he saw how Sasuke was lying. Sneaking closer, he was about to push Sasuke forward when the raven sharply turned his head and looked at him. Letting out a disappointed whine, Naruto pouted then settled on the couch again. Sasuke chuckled as he straightened and took his tea, sipping on it as he watched Naruto eat hungrily.

Take it easy, it will not disappear.

he signed with a smile and Naruto gave him a look then shrugged and slowed his eating a little. Shaking his head slightly, Sasuke took a toast of his own, biting into it with a pleased hum. He really did like soft bread. Naruto looked over at him and smiled slightly and Sasuke noticed with surprise that the blond had finished eating already. Frowning, he lifted his hands to sign when he saw Naruto's eyes flicker down to the half-eaten toast he had put on the table, making him hesitate slightly.

Do you want more?

he asked instead of his original words and Naruto blinked then gave a slow nod, looking a little bit anxious and Sasuke felt worry claw its way up inside him. Rising, he walked into the kitchen briskly and put the stove on, deciding to fry some eggs as he waited for the next two pieces of toast to be done.

Naruto curled up in the couch, worrying his lower lip between his teeth as he held the warm cup in his hand, his stomach feeling queasy with hunger even than he had eaten more than he had any of the days since he'd been offered dinner by Gaara and Neji. He'd hoped Sasuke wouldn't notice that he was eating so much but apparently it hadn't worked. Now he just anxiously wished that the raven wouldn't ask him anything about why he was so hungry. He looked up from the tea when Sasuke entered the room again, this time carrying a plate with fried eggs and another couple of toasts and a fork. His mouth watered at the delicious smell coming from the food and he gave the raven a thankful look as he set his mug down and resumed eating, wolfing down the food.

Sasuke watched with some kind of amusement and slight disgust as Naruto tried to eat the eggs whole but had to settle for smaller bites, a tiny smirk curving his lips. He was still confused over the blonde's appetite because no matter how hungry one was, five toast and three eggs were a bit much for a man in Naruto's size, but he let it be for the moment. Sitting down in the rocking chair again, he ate the rest of his toast then watched the blond finish his breakfast, gulping down the tea left in his cup before letting out a satisfied sigh and slumping against the couch's backrest. Sasuke smirked slightly then asked,

What do you want to do today?

Naruto stared at him for a long moment then hesitantly signed,

I do not know. I am usually at work now but not today.

You work Sundays?

Sasuke asked with surprise and Naruto grimaced but nodded.

I also dance or stay with Raccoon and N-E-J-I when I do not work.

Sasuke nodded slightly, looking at Naruto who fiddled with his wrinkled clothes. Now, in broad daylight, Sasuke could see that they weren't anything fancy, just well made. And worn.

How about shopping?

he asked with a small grin and Naruto started then shook his head hastily. Sasuke frowned slightly, looking at Naruto for a while, scheming in his head, before he said,

I have to get a few things. Would you like to come along?

Naruto gave him a suspicious look then suddenly smiled and nodded. Sasuke held back a relieved sigh, the man was far too good at reading between the lines so to speak. Smiling back, he then asked, genuinely curious,

When is your birthday?

October 10. Why do you ask?

I was curious. Mine is July 6.

he said and Naruto smiled slightly, looking comfortable in the nest of blankets Sasuke had covered him with when he woke up that morning, surprised that the blond lie shivering on the couch since it was certainly not cold in the apartment.

Shall we go?

he asked and the blond nodded then rose and stretched, yawning. Sasuke watched, eyes unbidden straying to the slip of caramel colored skin revealed above the lining of the white pants and below the tank-top. Glancing up quickly again, he couldn't help but smirk slightly at the small blush covering Naruto's cheeks as the blond self-consciously tugged his top down better. He waved Naruto along as he walked out into the hallway, pulling his summer jacket on and giving a slightly warmer one to Naruto who looked at it for a moment then pulled it on with a small, hidden smile that Sasuke saw out of the corner of his eye. Picking up his phone, wallet and keys, he handed Naruto a tiny notepad and a pencil with a warm smile, the blond smiling back at him as he stuffed the items into his pocket. Looking at the blond man for a long while, Sasuke was taken aback by how beautiful he found him, his heart skipping a beat when Naruto smiled curiously. Taking a step closer, he lifted one hand and pressed it against the blonde's cheek gently and leaned closer, hesitating just an inch away from the tan man's lips, searching blue orbs for permission. Expression soft and calm, Naruto smiled briefly before he tilted his head up and pressed their lips together. Eyes slipping shut, the blond stepped closer, pressing them together as he put his arms around the raven's waist loosely, parting his lips when a searching tongue carefully nudge them. He let out a breathy moan as Sasuke calmly, but with a hot passion simmering just beneath the surface of the gentle touches, searched his mouth, finding all the spots that made his head swim. When the need for proper air became too urgent, they parted and stood panting for a while, foreheads leaned together. Sasuke then leaned back slightly and looked at him for a while as they regained their breath before Naruto smiled and signed,

Let us go.

Sasuke let out a quite chuckle then nodded and grabbed the blonde's hand as they left.

Sasuke allowed a small, content smile to curve his lips as he walked beside Naruto, intently focused on the blond man as he signed about everything coming to mind. Hearing a familiar noise, he glanced up then grasped Naruto's hand and, lips almost touching Naruto's ear as he leaned close to the blond and pointing at the large fountain ahead of them, murmured

"Look."

Naruto grinned at the display of glittering water cascading down and he nodded then let out a surprised sound when Sasuke suddenly changed direction, tugging on their joined hands. Sasuke turned and smiled sunnily at him and Naruto blushed hotly then smiled back because Sasuke was smiling only at him, he was completely sure of it. Everything in the raven's eyes was focused on him.

You make me feel embarrassed.

he signed, still blushing, and Sasuke smirked a little.

Sorry.

he signed and Naruto rolled his eyes then smiled slightly and asked,

Where are we going?

Sasuke looked around then pointed at a store not far away. Naruto nodded and Sasuke gave him a small smile then took his hand again as they resumed walking. Neither of them cared about the looks they got but when a girl suddenly stopped right before them, looking distressed, and asked, signing a little awkwardly, her hands shaking as if she were very nervous or shy,

Do you two know ASL?

they were definitively surprised. Naruto and Sasuke exchanged a look then Naruto tugged on his hand slightly and Sasuke let go. Nodding to the girl, Naruto answered,

Yes.

The girl sighed in relief, her shoulders slumping and Naruto gave her a curious look then asked,

How can we help you?

The girl looked up again and Naruto was stunned for a brief moment when he realized she had pearl gray eyes, much alike Neji's, before he shrugged it off when she asked,

How do I get to S-H-A-R-I-N-G-A-N C-O-R-P? I have never been here before.

S-H-A-R-I-N-G-A-N C-O-R-P? I am sorry, I do not know. Sasuke, do you know where it is?

Sasuke nodded then pointed at the red logo a top a large building of glass maybe a street away.

Follow that.

he signed and the girl gave them a brilliant but small smile as she signed,

Thank you. And you make a great couple. Good bye.

Naruto and Sasuke both lifted their hands in response as the girl took off before they let them fall again and uncertainly looked at each other. They began walking in silence, Naruto looking down at the pavement as Sasuke kept his head turned slightly to the side, feeling both nervous and annoyed. After a moment the raven let out a silent curse and grabbed Naruto's hand again, making the blond jump and look at him. Looking back, he signed, without letting go of the blonde's hand,

You all right?

Naruto blinked then suddenly smiled, seeing the nigh on invisible worried frown on the pale man's face, and nodded slightly, squeezing Sasuke's hand gently and getting a reassuring squeeze back as they continued walking towards the store. He couldn't help the small gasp leaving him when they entered the shop and Sasuke gave him a small smirk.

The place was huge! And the clothes must be worth many times more than he earned in a year! The walls were all softly white, as was the ceiling and the floor. Light was streaming down from bright but not glaring lights, which probably was needed since the clothes seemed to absorb the light like sponges did water. Looking around in wide eyed wonder, he didn't realize he had let go of Sasuke's hand until he found a pair of pants, much alike those he was wearing though in a dark green color, that he wanted to ask Sasuke about because maybe, just maybe could he afford them, and confused found himself alone.

Snapping around, he surveyed the shop quickly, relief filling him when he saw Sasuke standing barely a meter away. Taking a deep breath, he carefully picked the pants in his size out and walked over to Sasuke, tapping the raven's shoulder lightly. Sasuke turned and glanced down at the garment before meeting his eyes, a small smirk curving his lips.

You want those?

the raven asked and Naruto nodded hesitantly then signed quickly,

Could you ask what they cost?

It is written on the tag.

Sasuke signed, a little surprised over the question, and turned the garment over, finding a paper tag that he handed to the blond man. He watched Naruto read the price and saw him deflate like a balloon. Frowning slightly, he was about to ask what was wrong when Naruto looked up and gave him a small, uneasy grin, signing,

Too expensive.

How much is it?

he asked and Naruto glanced at the tag again then signed,

$58.

Sasuke stared unnervingly at him for a while then nodded slightly. Leaning back slightly, he flipped through the green shirts before him then picked one out and gave it to the blond before signing,

Try them on.

Why? I cannot buy them.

Naruto frowned and Sasuke shook his head with a smirk then reached out and gave the blond a brief hug, murmuring against his temple,

"Humor me."

Naruto was blushing when he moved back and he smirked again then kissed the man chastely before he gave the blond a light puff towards the changing rooms. The blond man gave him a soft smile, cheeks dusted red, then took off towards the area, gliding between the clothes as if he was dancing. Sasuke looked after him for a long while before he shook his head and continued his search for suitable clothes. He started when his phone rang then sighed and answered,

"Aniki."

"Where the hell are you?" Itachi snapped and Sasuke frowned slightly, holding the phone between his shoulder and ear to get his hands free as he answered,

"Shopping. Why?"

"Shopping? You?" Deidara asked incredulously and Sasuke rolled his eyes slightly then muttered dryly,

"Freak."

"Mean-"

"Dei. Shut up. Do you have my keys, otouto?"

"Keys? No." Sasuke replied and jumped when the man swore, quickly catching the phone as it fell. "Aniki, what's wrong?"

"I lost them. I've locked myself out, both from my apartment, yours, my work and a dozen other places. It annoys me."Itachi replied and Sasuke lifted an eyebrow then asked,

"And?"

"And both you and I are expected on Manda Corp's annual dinner party."

"Is uncle still running the company?" Sasuke asked with some slight amusement, smirking.

"Hn."

"Fine. When it is?"

"In six hours."

"Six?" Sasuke exclaimed and received an angry look from a woman a bit away. Turning his back to her, he hissed into the phone, "I'm supposed to be at uncle's mansion in six hours and you tell me now?"

"I forgot."

"Hell you did." Sasuke growled because he could hear the older Uchiha's smug smirk and it was certainly not the first time Itachi 'forgot' to tell him about an event they were supposed to be at. He usually 'remembered' to tell him about two hours before the actual event, which meant that he had less than an hour to get ready before he had to leave since it took about an hour to drive to Madara's home were most of the events were held. Cursing softly, Sasuke sighed at the reprimand from his brother then he said quietly, "I'll be there in a while, aniki. Bye."

He hung up before Itachi had a chance to respond. Stuffing it back into his pocket, he walked further into the store, looking around with poorly masked disinterest. A glint of deep blue to his left made him turn, curious, and he let out a low hum of surprise when his eyes landed on very finely made shirts. Picking one in his size out, he looked at it for a while then smirked slightly. It would be perfect for what he had in mind. A gentle tap on his shoulder made him turn and he was met with sky blue, nervous eyes. Looking the blond over, he was taken aback by the sight of how elfish like the man seemed. The green clothes made his normally caramel complexion turn just slightly olive and he looked so very alive suddenly. He smiled slightly as he put the blue shirt in his hands down and signed,

You are beautiful.

Naruto's cheeks flamed red and the blond took a step back, dropping his white clothes and the jacket as he began waving his hands in a defending manner. Sasuke quickly grabbed the man's hands, letting go just as quickly when Naruto stilled and signed,

Please do not deny it, N-A-R-U-T-O. You are very beautiful.

Naruto just stared at him for a long moment then tears began welling up in the man's eyes. Startled, Sasuke cursed then signed, unable to keep from frowning in worry,

Forgive me. I did not intend to upset you.

I am not beautiful, T-E-M-E.

the blond replied, tears slipping down his cheeks as he hunched together, looking down at the floor and biting his lower lip. Sasuke could only stare at him for a long moment before he had to react, the too clearly visible pain in Naruto's whole body actually hurtful. Reaching out, he grabbed the tan man's shoulders and pulled him closer, wrapping both his arms around him in a hard embrace. Pressing his face into blond, fuzzy hair, he mumbled quietly,

"I'm sorry but I do think you are beautiful."

Naruto stood frozen in his arms for a while then tan hands were lifted and grabbed onto his shirt and with a quiet gasp, the man pressed his face against his chest and cried despairingly. Sasuke pulled Naruto closer and gently began to stroke his hair as he murmured silently,

"It's all right, Nar. It's all right."

Sasuke looked up when a clerk approached him and the frowning woman asked,

"Sir, can I help you?"

"Hn. Could you check us out? I wish to leave." Sasuke replied and the woman nodded.

"Of course, sir. May I just ask if your friend is wearing our clothes?"

"Unfortunately, yes. I asked him to try them on. I'm sorry if we're causing you trouble." Sasuke watched with hidden annoyance as the woman swooned when he looked at her, eagerly reassuring him that there would be no trouble at all.

-Women.-

Picking the blue shirt he had found and Naruto's clothes up, he followed the young woman to the counter and paid for the clothes, including Naruto's. Gently ushering the distraught man out of the shop, he made him sit down on a bench that stood a bit to the side, crouching down in front of him and taking his hands in his own. Looking up at the blond for a long while he then murmured awkwardly,

"I'm not good at this, Nar, but please don't cry more."

Naruto let out a startled, choking laugh then blue eyes opened and the blond looked back at him, smiling slightly, even than it looked painful.

I am fine. Do not worry.

he signed and Sasuke frowned slightly then reached up and caressed the man's cheek with the back of his fingers, gently drying the tears away.

"You don't look fine." the raven spoke low and Naruto flinched, blue eyes darkening briefly before they lightened again as he sighed. Sasuke grasped his hands again, just holding them as he watched the blond struggle to get his emotions under control. "Ice cream." he said before he had thought it through and Naruto gave him a confused look. Slightly embarrassed, he murmured, "Would you like some ice cream? My treat."

Naruto suddenly smiled and shook his head, but not as an answer, pulling his hands away and signing,

You are pretty.

"'M not pretty." Sasuke muttered then looked around, noticing a small café not far away. "What kind of ice cream do you like?" he asked as he looked back at Naruto and the blond smiled slightly then signed,

Chocolate, vanilla and orange or lemon sorbet.

Sasuke smirked and nodded then signed,

Wait here. I will be back soon.

Okay.

Naruto replied with a slightly uneasy grin and Sasuke gave him a concerned look before he stood up and hugged the man tightly. Naruto smiled slightly when he pulled away and he murmured quietly,

"Don't worry. I promise I'll be back soon."

Naruto smiled again then made a shooing motion with his hands and Sasuke gave him a quick smile then leaned in and kissed his cheek before he left. Blushing, Naruto lifted his hand and pressed his palm against the spot Sasuke had kissed, smiling warmly as he watched the man walk towards the café. He was surprised when an unfamiliar figure stopped in front of him, and he narrowed his eyes against the sun, trying to make out the persons face.

"Naruto?" a kind, familiar voice asked and Naruto blinked then the man's face finally came into focus and he jumped up with a joyous noise, throwing his arms around the man. The brown haired man hugged him back tightly, smiling when he let go and eagerly signed,

Scar-nose! What are you doing here?

I am heading to the market. We need food. You are wearing very nice clothes, N-A-R-U-T-O.

the man replied and Naruto started, looking down on himself. He let out a surprised noise when he realized he was wearing the green clothes Sasuke had asked him to try on, though with the anti-theft device now removed. He must have bought them then. Had he really been that upset?

Apparently I am.

he signed to the man, smiling slightly and received a surprised look.

You were not aware of it. Why?

I did not buy them. A friend did without my consent.

Naruto grimaced but the man smiled softly and signed,

Your friend must be very kind. And you look very good.

Thank you.

Naruto smiled and hugged the man again, burying his head against his shoulder. Arms wrapping hard around him, he heard him sigh softly before he chuckled and murmured,

"I still miss you at home sometimes, Naru-chan. Kakashi does too even than he doesn't say anything. Do you still dance?"

Naruto nodded, grinning as he opened his eyes, about to lean back when he noticed that Sasuke was standing barely two meters away, an ice cream in each hand that was beginning to melt in the warmth. The raven looked dumbstruck, shocked and tense, as he stared at them and Naruto quickly pulled away. Stepping around the brown haired man who confusedly watched him, he asked worriedly,

What is wrong?

The raven jolted and onyx eyes snapped up to meet his before the man shook his head with a wry smirk, holding a cup with chocolate-vanilla ice cream and orange sorbet out. Surprised, Naruto took it as Sasuke turned to his friend and held his hand out with a polite,

"I'm Uchiha Sasuke, pleased to meet you."

"Umino Iruka, pleased to meet you too." the brown haired man wearing a green backpack replied with a kind smile as he shook his hand and Sasuke was slightly surprised, eyes flickering to watchful blue before settling on brown orbs again. "Is there something wrong?" Iruka asked with a worried frown and Sasuke shook his head, asking quietly,

"Ice cream?"

"Eh?" Iruka looked startled and Naruto laughed then held his ice cream out for one of them to take before signing,

He wants to know if you would like some ice cream too.

"Oh. Well, why not?" the man smiled and Sasuke nodded then gave Naruto his ice cream back and signed,

Will you come with me or stay here?

Naruto laughed then nodded towards the café, smiling to Iruka as the man said,

"Here, let me hold those so you can sign."

Thank you. Sasuke, stop acting shy. I know you are uncomfortable but Scar-nose is very kind.

Naruto signed and Sasuke blinked then rolled his eyes and took two steps forward, wrapping an arm around the blonde's waist. Leaning down and pressing his lips against the man's ear, he whispered quietly,

"I'm not shy, I got jealous, baka."

Pulling back, he smirked at Naruto's flustered look then turned to Iruka and bowed slightly as he said, signing the words too,

"Thank you for holding my ice cream."

"You're welcome." the man replied and Naruto took his ice cream back too, grabbing Iruka's hand and beginning to walk towards the café as Sasuke fetched his bag. After a moment, the raven sided up with them and asked Iruka, signing a little awkwardly with the cup in his hand as he spoke,

"What kind of ice cream do you want?"

"Chocolate please." Iruka smiled to him and he nodded then set his cup down on a table outside the café before turning to Naruto and signing quickly,

Tell me about Scar-nose when I come back, okay?

Yes.

Okay.

Naruto smiled as Sasuke left then turned to a frowning Iruka, asking surprised when he noticed the expression,

What is wrong?

He is not very comfortable around people, is he?

Maybe not. I think he likes signing more than speaking though.

Naruto replied and Iruka nodded then sat down on a chair, Naruto taking the seat opposite of him. Spooning the half-melted ice cream into his mouth, the blond sighed contentedly. Iruka chuckled then asked,

Good?

Yes.

Naruto smiled then set his spoon down and asked,

How are you doing, papa?

Iruka smiled slightly then signed,

I am fine. What about you?

Great. I really like S-A-S-U-K-E, he is very kind.

Naruto grinned brightly and Iruka chuckled then looked up when Sasuke sat down beside the blond and placed a cup with chocolate ice cream before him, signing,

Thank you.

You are welcome.

Sasuke nodded then looked down at his own ice cream, taking a spoon of it and putting it into his mouth. Grimacing, he set it down again and placed his elbow on the table, leaning his head in his hand as he watched Naruto eat and talk with Iruka. Spacing out, his mind ran back through his memories to a time when he had last enjoyed sitting peacefully like this, in the warm sun among people he liked. He hardly remembered it. He remembered his mother's hand as she guided him along and her laugh as she took the sandwiches she had made out. He remembered the calm, content look on his father's face and his brother's poorly masked smile.

Sasuke didn't notice the hand waving to get his attention before the fingers tapped his shoulder, making him flinch. Jerking back slightly, he gave Naruto a confused, startled look and the blond gently touched his arm before he asked,

Why are you not eating your ice cream?

Sasuke grimaced then signed,

I do not like sweets. But I wanted to try.

May I have your ice cream in that case?

Naruto asked and Sasuke rolled his eyes then pushed the cup with mostly melted but still cold ice cream over to the blond. He smiled slightly as he watched Naruto eat it then Iruka caught his attention by signing,

He loves sweets.

I noticed.

Sasuke replied, smirking slightly at Naruto's small blush. Iruka laughed quietly then asked,

Where did you meet my son?

Sasuke gave him a surprised look then signed,

I did not realize you were kin. I met him at a club.

We are not related. But I raised him. N-A-R-U is as like a son to me.

Iruka replied and Naruto grinned, signing,

Scar-nose is like my mother whereas Mask is like my father.

Mask?

Sasuke asked and Iruka smiled warmly, the raven slightly taken aback by the undeniable love in the man's whole posture when he signed,

My partner. K-A-K-A-S-H-I is his name.

I see.

Sasuke smiled slightly and Naruto laughed then signed,

He is obvious, is he not?

Yes. I do believe you love him.

Sasuke said and Iruka blushed slightly then nodded and signed,

Very much.

Just as Sasuke was about to ask a new question, his phone went off and he let out soft moan of annoyance, forgetting that the other two were hearing. Picking the device up, he scowled at the display when he saw that it was his brother then he flipped it open, activated the video function before signing,

What is it?

"Sasuke?" Itachi asked surprised, suddenly frowning and the raven started then sighed and deactivated the function, picking up the phone and muttering,

"Sorry."

"Hn. Are you all right?" Itachi asked and the younger raven breathed out a quiet sigh then nodded slightly.

"Hn."

"All right. Could you come home? The time has changed. We have to leave in about two hours and I think you might want to change and shower. I want to at least." his brother spoke and Sasuke grimaced then said,

"Fine. I'll be there in twenty."

"Hn. Bye."

"Bye." Sasuke replied before he hung up and looked up at Naruto and Iruka who were signing about… cheese pie? Smirking slightly, he tapped Naruto's shoulder gently, making the blond man look at him curiously and ask,

What is it?

I have to go home. My brother has locked himself out.

Sasuke answered and Naruto grimaced then signed,

I hate locking myself out. It is a lot of trouble.

Yes. I am sorry to leave you here, will you be fine?

Sasuke asked and Naruto smiled when he noticed that almost invisible frown of worry marring the man's face.

I will be fine. Scar-nose, can I go with you?

Naruto signed and Iruka nodded with a smile.

Of course you can.

Good. Will I see you again?

Sasuke asked slowly, hesitating slightly and Naruto grinned, nodding.

Come and dance again.

I will. See you, N-A-R. I will be looking for you.

Sasuke signed then leaned down and kissed the blonde's cheek, smirking at the blonde's flustered look. Turning to Iruka, Sasuke bowed slightly then signed,

Look after him for me. Good bye.

I will. Good bye.

the brown-haired man replied, smiling and Sasuke glanced at Naruto and smiled slightly at the pout on the man's face then he picked his bag up, turned on heel and walked away, heading back towards his apartment.

Naruto looked after the raven for a while then he let out a sigh and looked at Iruka, signing,

Do you think I will see him again?

I hope so. You really seem to like him.

I do like him.

Naruto signed, glancing over his shoulder at the man he had met the night before. Iruka tapped the table with his fingers and Naruto looked back at him.

When did you meet him?

Yesterday.

Naruto answered and Iruka looked startled.

You met him yesterday?

Yes.

Okay. Shall we leave?

Iruka asked and Naruto nodded, rising. He picked the empty paper cups up and carried them to a bin before he walked back to Iruka who had pushed the chairs back in. He smiled slightly then signed as they began walking,

What do you need?

Cheese, ham, bananas, butter, yeast, sugar and flour.

Are you making sponge cake?

Naruto asked, grinning and Iruka gave him a startled look then he laughed, nodding.

Do you want me to make an extra big one?

I would love that.

Naruto smiled and Iruka nodded, looking at the blond man for a while before they entered the market. Naruto stopped just inside the door and Iruka turned surprised, asking,

What is it?

Swallowing, Naruto shook his head then pointed over his shoulder and signed,

I will wait outside.

Iruka lifted a hand to reply but Naruto turned and disappeared out before he had the chance. The almost scared look on the blonde's face worried him. Sighing, he continued into the shop and decided as he fetched a basket that he would hurry as much as he could.

Naruto drew a deep breath as he sat down on the bench a bit away from the entrance to the shop, hands clenching around the edge of the wooden bench. His stomach was rolling, bile rising up in his throat and he tilted his head forward, gasping. Taking a deep breath and holding it in for a while, he opened his eyes and stared at a flower petal in red lying on the pavement. Breathing out shakily, he repeated the action until he felt the nausea subside slightly. A sharp stab of pain in his ribs made him jerk and double over, gasping as his throat constricted in panic. Suddenly a warm hand landed on his shoulder then Iruka knelt before him, looking up at him worriedly.

"Are you feeling very ill?" the man asked and he nodded jerkily, gasping once more. "Do you want to go to the hospital?"

Naruto stared at the ground blankly for a second, contemplating the question, then he shook his head and Iruka nodded.

"Do you want to follow me home? My car is on the parking lot not far away."

Naruto looked at him then nodded once. Iruka smiled slightly then rose and gently took the blonde's arm, offering aid as the man staggered to his feet. Naruto let out a agonized whimper, face scrunching up in pain as he straightened. Iruka frowned in worry and quickly hefted the younger man's arm over his shoulders, wrapping his other around Naruto's waist. The man leaned heavily against him and Iruka breathed out a worried sigh then murmured,

"Come on, let's get you home."

Naruto gratefully slumped in the car seat as Iruka shut the door, put the backpack with groceries in the trunk before getting in the driver's seat. Turning hazy blue eyes to the man he signed tiredly,

Thank you.

"You're welcome, Naru-chan." Iruka smiled as he started the car and drove off. Naruto let out a moan of protest, nausea rolling over him in waves. "Tell me if you're going to be sick, Naru. I'll pull over for you." Iruka said and Naruto finger-spelled Y-E-S, not daring to nod.

Suddenly, Iruka stopped the car and Naruto opened his eyes, not having realized he had fallen asleep. Looking around, he smiled slightly when he noticed they were on the farm his papa and dada ran. Opening the door, he slowly stepped outside, his feet barely touching the ground before he collapsed, letting out a quiet sound of protest as he fell to the ground.

"'KASHI!" Iruka yelled and Naruto dazedly watched as the man rushed out of the small house, running over to him.

There was a deep frown of worry on the man's face as Iruka helped him lift the young man up and carry him back to the house. Tucking the blond into bed after helping him out of his brand-new clothes, they watched over him worriedly as he sank into a fitful slumber. Naruto was incredibly grateful for the darkness and quiet.


Sasuke had never been so bored in his whole life and judging by the look on his brother's face, the man wasn't enjoying himself either. Deidara wasn't allowed to appear at these 'dinners' and it pissed the older raven off. The fact that every woman within the house tried to flirt with him only served to irritate him further. Sasuke was glad he was left mostly alone, knowing it was because he was known to rudely shoot the women trying to approach him down. A strategy he had started the same instant he had realized he was rainbow colored, so to speak, to keep the women at bay. His father had thrown a tantrum the day he had finally decided to tell him and his mother had cried even than she had known already. Itachi had smirked but kept silent, though there had been pride in those unemotional eyes, carefully hidden in the presence of their father.

"Sasuke?" a low voice said behind him and he turned, lifting an eyebrow in question when he realized it was his uncle's twin brother. The man smiled at him and held a bright red lollipop out and he let a small smirk lift his lips.

"Thank you, uncle, but no thank you." he said, shaking his head slightly and Tobi frowned slightly. Sighing, Sasuke asked quietly, "Is it lemon flavored?"

The man nodded eagerly and smiled when he smirked and took it, putting it into his pocket. The man sighed but smiled nonetheless and Sasuke curiously asked,

"Did you want something special, Tobi-san?"

The man shook his head and Sasuke nodded then older of the two twins showed up, glancing at his brother and then Sasuke who pretended that it was raining. Tobi just smiled and held a hand out to the other, making the youngest raven hide a smile of his own.

"You really should stop giving away sweets, Tobi." Madara sighed, grabbing his brother's hand and turning to leave but stopping mid-step. "Oh, and littlest? I believe Haku is looking for you." he said and Sasuke sighed at the nickname but nodded sharply and turned to look for the man previously mentioned.

A short while later, he noticed him and quickly crossed the room, gently touching the man's shoulder. Haku turned sharply and Sasuke almost jumped at the abrupt motion.

"Ah! Sasuke-sama! I was looking for you." the man said and Sasuke nodded.

"Uncle told me, Haku-san. What is it that you wish to tell me?" he asked and Haku shook his head and said, smiling,

"No, I want you to meet somebody. Sasuke-sama, this is Hyuuga Hinata, our newest employee. She will be starting tomorrow as your assistant while I'm away."

"Finally got Zabuza to accompany you, Haku-san?" Sasuke asked, smiling slightly and Haku blushed for a short moment, nodding. Looking past the man, he startled realized he had met the girl who immediately bowed and said, stammering badly,

"S-sasuke s-sama, I-m-m Hyuuga Hi-hinata. Pleased t-to meet y-you."

Tapping her shoulder and making her look up, he smiled slightly as he signed quickly,

I am pleased to meet you too.

The girl gasped then lifted her hands and signed, pearl gray eyes wide,

You are the man I meet earlier today! I am sorry, I did not know you were my boss.

Please, do not think I am berating you for that. I did not know who you were either.

Sasuke replied and Hinata breathed out a sigh then gave him a soft smile and asked,

Where is the blond man you were with?

He is at home. And we are not really a couple.

Sasuke smiled slightly and she blushed dark red.

I am sorry for my mistake.

No, it is all right. Where did you live earlier?

Sasuke asked and the young woman smiled.

N-I-P-P-O-N-K-O-K-O. Japan.

Why are you here then?

Sasuke asked just as Hinata looked up towards the ceiling, appearing to be listening to someone then she blinked and signed,

I wanted to see my cousin and I wished to work in the United States.

Sasuke was slightly confused over her behavior and Hinata seemed to notice as she smiled at him.

I cannot see well. It is easier for me to see what you sign if I tilt my head back a bit.

she explained and Sasuke immediately reached out and grabbed her hand, signing against her palm and she smiled brilliantly.

Thank you.

No problem. May I ask you a question?

Of course.

Does Neji also have bad eyesight?

Hinata started slightly then smiled slightly and nodded as she signed,

Yes, but less bad than I have. How did you know he is my cousin?

You have the same eyes and complexion.

Sasuke replied, smirking slightly and Hinata let out a soft laugh, the sound soft and turning heads towards them. Sasuke barely noticed as he signed, rather curious,

How come you applied for the position as my assistant?

I like working around silent people. N-E-J-I always say you are a loner.

Hinata smiled and Sasuke kept his smirk concealed but rose an eyebrow and the woman went beet red. Stammering and signing at the same time, she frantically said,

"I-i am so s-sorry! P-please forgive m-me, sir, I-i did not m-mean t-to-?"

Sasuke caught her hands in his own, cutting her off effectively and signed, smirking slightly,

I apologize for teasing you. I am very glad you are honest with me. It is as like as you consider me a friend. I am a silent person if I cannot use my hands.

I understand. I am sorry if I am troubling you.

Hinata replied, looking a bit concerned and Sasuke shook his head.

No, you are not.

I am relieved.

Hinata smiled and Sasuke let out a silent chuckle. The young woman was lovely. Suddenly, she shone up as if remembering something and signed,

Who is the man you were with earlier?

I honestly do not know. I met him yesterday.

Sasuke replied and Hinata smiled then asked,

Love at first sight?

Sasuke started and stared at her for a long moment then he nodded slowly and signed,

I suppose so.

Hinata smiled then asked,

Who is he?

You mean how he is, yes?

Sasuke asked and Hinata nodded.

Yes.

He is kind. He is an incredibly good dancer. He eats a lot. He does not speak but sign very well.

he replied and the young woman nodded, smiling as she signed,

I noticed that he signs very well but I was in too much of a hurry, otherwise I would have liked to talk to him a lot more. I am still not very good at ASL.

I think you are doing wonderful.

Sasuke said honestly and Hinata smiled, blushing slightly again.

Thank you. What i-

Suddenly a man Sasuke very much disliked appeared right beside the young woman, effectively intimidating her into silence with his glaring yellow eyes. Irritated, he signed quickly to Hinata, asking her to leave for a moment, the woman leaving quickly with a thankful look. As those yellow eyes focused on him, Sasuke held back a shudder. This man was another of the reasons as to why he hated these dinners with a passion. He was thankful it was a short one this time, ending at nine. Barely two hours remained.

"I see you still rely on other people, Uchiha-san. Why not reconsider my offer?" the man said and Sasuke did his best to not scowl as he answered sharply,

"I do not wish to work in an environment where I'd have to watch my back, Orochimaru-san."

The man's eyes flashed with anger and Sasuke warily narrowed his own eyes.

"Ah, Sannin-san. May I have a word with you?" Madara suddenly appeared beside him and Sasuke glanced at his uncle whose hand was lying gently on his shoulder, his other held out in a offer to the snake-like man to leave.

"Certainly, Uchiha-san." the man hissed and Sasuke made a mental note to thank his uncle when the man squeezed his shoulder before leaving with the other one.

Looking around, Sasuke was slightly surprised to notice that Hinata was talking to his older brother. Making his way over, nodding to all the people he knew on the way, he stopped beside the girl and asked, speaking for the sake of his brother as he signed,

"Am I interrupting?"

"No, otouto." Itachi said and Hinata shook her head as she quickly signed,

Not at all. Your brother is a real gentleman.

Want me to tell him that?

Sasuke signed with a smirk and Hinata blushed but nodded. Turning to Itachi who to Sasuke was obviously curious, he said,

"She says you are a real gentleman, aniki."

"Why, thank you, miss." Itachi said with a smirk and a bow, making Hinata giggle softly.

"Y-you're w-welcome, I-itachi-san." she stammered and Itachi tilted his head very slightly to the side before he said,

"I hear that you are going to work as Sasuke's assistant while Haku is away."

"T-that is true, I-itachi-san." Hinata said, signing as she spoke, seemingly out of habit. Sasuke took her hand and signed against her palm,

Where do you live now?

At one of the company's hotels.

"Aniki, isn't there any accommodation offered by the company in this town?" Sasuke asked and Itachi frowned slightly.

"No, why?"

"Hinata-chan lives at one of the company's hotels. I think it might be troublesome, seeing as it is a bit away from the office. What do you think, Hinata-chan?" he asked and the young woman smiled nervously, blushing slightly as she signed,

It is long to walk. But I will manage, S-A-S-U-K-E-S-A-N.

Just S-A-S-U-K-E, please. Thank you.

Sasuke replied with a small smirk then said,

"Think we can figure something out, aniki?"

"Of course. Give me a few days and I'll see what I can do. How does that sound, miss Hinata?" Itachi said and the girl nodded, blushing. Sasuke smiled briefly as she signed,

It sounds very good. Tell him to call me just H-I-N-A-T-A or H-I-N-A-T-A-C-H-A-N like you did. I think it sounds more relaxed.

"She says it sounds good. And she wants you to call her only Hinata or Hinata-chan, it is more informal." he told Itachi and the man smirked openly and replied,

"Then I will do so, Hinata-chan. Now, I must go. I will meet you two tomorrow most likely. And Dei's picking me up, otouto. Good night."

"Good night, aniki." Sasuke said and Hinata smiled then stammered,

"G-good n-night, onii-san."

Itachi rose an eyebrow then nodded slightly and turned towards Sasuke, murmuring quietly as he passed,

"'Onii-san'?"

"Do you mind?" Sasuke asked silently and Itachi glanced back at them and smirked.

"Hn."

What did he say?

Hinata asked and Sasuke shrugged lightly, muttering,

"Nothing important."

The young woman smiled a little and Sasuke looked at her for a while then took her hand and signed,

You were going to ask me something before that man interrupted us. What was it?

I wished to know the name of the man you were with earlier.

Hinata smiled and Sasuke nodded then signed against her palm,

His name is N-A-R-U-T-O. He does not have a sign name. I do not know why.

OK. Do you have a sign name?

The young woman asked and Sasuke hesitated for a moment then finger-spelled Y-E-S before signing the temporary name Naruto called him by. Hinata smiled brightly and repeated the move then she signed,

My sign name is white. I am White.

Sasuke smiled then asked,

Where did you learn ASL?

I learned it at the hospital here.

Hinata replied and Sasuke, surprised, asked,

Why at the hospital?

When I was younger I was involved in a big accident.

Hinata replied, hesitating for a short moment before she signed,

I was injured and hit my head very bad. It worsened my stammering and also my eyesight.

Sasuke nodded, frowning slightly. Taking a breath, he asked,

Why did you learn ASL?

I could not speak well at all when I woke up in the hospital. I could not communicate with the people around me. There was a nurse that realized I was completely clear in mind and she asked my speech therapist to teach me ASL. I was a quick learner and my younger sister learned some of the language. She interpreted for my father when he visited.

Hinata answered and Sasuke nodded but frowned slightly at the saddened expression she got when she told him about her family. Gently taking her hand, he asked,

Do you not get along with your family?

Hinata looked up at him, appearing sad, then she sighed and shook her head, signing,

My father does not care much about me. My younger sister does not either now. My older sister K-U-R-E-N-A-I does. She is very kind. I like her very much even than she is not my real sister. She learned ASL to be able to talk to me easier. N-E-J-I is almost like my best friend.

Does N-E-J-I know ASL?

Sasuke asked and the young woman frowned slightly then nodded.

I think he does.

OK. It is getting late. Are you taking a taxi home?

Sasuke asked and Hinata nodded with a small smile.

Yes, I am. Good night.

See you tomorrow. Good night.

Sasuke replied, smiling slightly as the young woman left, her cream white, simple dress swirling around her as she turned and walked away.

"Like her?" Haku asked beside him and Sasuke started slightly then looked at the shorter man with a slight frown.

"Hn." he grunted and Haku smirked at him then said,

"Good. See you in a few weeks, Sasuke-sama. Have a good night."

"You too, Haku-san. Have a nice trip." Sasuke said and the man nodded with a smile then he disappeared as quickly as he'd showed up. Breathing out a sigh, Sasuke walked over to where Tobi was standing by the wall, looking tired.

"Sasuke." the man smiled when he came nearer and he nodded back.

"Tobi-oji-san. Are you waiting for Madara-oji-san?" he murmured, using the honorifics his younger uncle preferred with a small smirk.

"Hai. He is slow." the man looked annoyed and Sasuke smiled briefly then asked,

"Why don't you go sit down? Your back is hurting, isn't it?"

Tobi gave him a look then sighed.

"Hn. Good night, littlest"

"Good night, Tobi-ojii-san. Tell Madara-oji-san bye for me, please? Arigato." Sasuke said and Tobi smiled as he watched the youngest Uchiha leave. Departing from the room, he settled in an armchair, leaning his head back with a soft sigh as he prepared himself to wait. Madara would just have to wake him up if he fell asleep.


Sasuke unlocked the door to his apartment, closing and locking it behind himself carefully. Picking up the letters lying on the floor, he shifted through them, sighing when there was nothing but bills. Glancing at the unwashed dishes left from the breakfast that morning, he scowled then turned his head away and padded into his bedroom, shedding his clothes as he walked towards the shower. Quickly washing his hair, he rinsed then toweled himself dry. Wrapping the towel around his hips, he brushed his teeth before he put all the lights out and crawled into bed, stark naked. He let out a sigh as he settled, feeling a little alone. He missed Naruto's warm presence in the apartment. Sighing again, he closed his eyes and went to sleep, dreaming about sun tanned skin, soft blond hair, sky blue eyes and a warm smile.


Note: I thought I'd just mention that sometimes when I'm waiting for the bus at the central, I see a woman who is both partly blind and deaf. She always has an assistant with her and the assistant sign holding her hand since she can't see very well. I suppose there is something alike it in ASL but I don't know what, so what Sasuke's doing is purely fiction.


~Written by Kicklia, 2012 ~