Gone in an Instant
Chapter Three
I was tired, so very tired. My limbs felt like lead, my body a mass of pain. I was leaning against a tree trunk wanting to pass out but holding on. I knew someone would come looking for me. It was finally over though. No longer would the world have to cower in fear at the Akatsuki's name.
I was giving in to the darkness as I heard shouting from nearby. I tried to open my heavy lids but couldn't. I couldn't open my eyes to see who had found me. As I finally gave in, loud curses filled the air around me making the edges of my lips quirk up in a small smile.
I was out for three days after the fight. The first thing that caught my eye upon opening them was your sleeping form curled up against me. I reached out a shaky hand to run my fingers through your hair, my actions waking you up. Your sleepy expression taking a hike when you saw that I was awake. Your eyes started to shine brightly with tears.
"Naruto!" you sobbed, burying your head in my chest as your tears soaked the hospital gown I wore. I smiled down at you and then at your protruding belly. My smile turned grim. How could I be so stupid? How could I be so naive? I gently grabbed your chin and tilted your head up. I was going to tell you what had been lying in my heart all along.
"I love you…" I whispered softly. Your beautiful dark eyes widened the disbelief in them obvious. I removed my hand from your chin, turning away so that you wouldn't have to look at me. A single tear slid down my face as you gently turned me back to face you. You smiled softly before placing a chaste kiss on my lips, a small blush stealing over your pale face.
Though you had not said the words, your kiss said it clearly. You loved me just like I loved you.
