Chapter 4
How many days had it been since she had been captured? How many times had she been abused? How many times had she begged silently for Shikamaru's help? She had lost count.
How many days had it been since he first woke up? How many times had he heard her scream? How many times had he cursed himself for letting this happen to her? He had lost count. But his plan was in motion now. He would get her out of here. Even if it was the last thing he ever did.
She heard the door open and prepared for the normal voice of her abuser, but instead heard something else. "Temari?"
"Shikamaru?"
"Shh….I'm getting you out of here."
"How did you escape?"
"It doesn't really matter does it?" He asked as he cut the ropes that bound her wrists. Then he moved down to her ankles. He cut those as well. "Here take these." He tossed her his vest and boxers. "I am sorry I couldn't get here sooner."
"It is alright. You are here now, that is all that matters. Now how are we getting out of here?" She asked as she put of the clothes she was given.
"Shh….someone's coming." The door opened again and four shadowy figures appeared in the doorway. He pushed her behind him.
"So you managed to escape did you?"
"Temari…" he whispered, "when I use my jutsu, make a run for it."
"I'm not leaving without you."
"Yes you are. Now get ready." His hands began to form hand signs and his shadow began to stretch. "Shadow possession complete…now get out of here Temari." She moved out from behind him and stood in front. She crouched to match his position and leaned in. She planted a kiss on his lips that became passionate very quickly and then pulled away.
"I love you." She mumbled.
"I love you too. Now leave…I can't hold them like this forever." She knew what he meant. His opponents were strong and trying to break his hold. She stood once more and after glancing one more time at her rescuer and love, she ran through the doorway and towards freedom.
As soon as he was sure she was free, he dropped his hands, chakra exhausted and body weak from lack of food. The figures approached him as he collapsed on the ground. He knew that there was no way he could escape. He had no more strength. He let them drag him away. He let them throw back into a cell. He let them throw away the key. He knew he would die here. He knew he would never see him smile again. He felt the tear fall. He also knew she was safe, and that was good enough. As long as he knew that, he could die.
"I will always be with you Temari. Death can not stop love. Remember me." He muttered before leaning against the wall and closing his eyes, for possibly the last time.