Good afternoon and once again . . . thanks to all of you who reviewed! Well, the power is still working at my house and I'm having a snow/ice day off from work so I thought I'd try and get the last two chapters of this story edited and posted (although, I'm sure they'll still be mistakes). And, that's exactly what I'm doing. I thought about waiting to post the final chapter later, but this coming weekend is going to be a little busy for me and I wasn't sure when I'd have the opportunity . . . so, here you go.

One quick answer to a review . . . sorry, but Sai doesn't show up in this fiction. I started writing it before I was even aware of his character (keep in mind, I've had most of this written for over a year) and thus, he never made it in. Oh, and one more thing . . . in this story, Gaara still has his demon.

Disclaimers: Still don't own it and don't make any money off this fanfiction.

On with the story . . .

Three days passed, and although Naruto smiled and laughed, everyone knew something was terribly wrong. Kiba, who was even more hot headed and impulsive than Naruto, was quick to blame everything on Sasuke. "It's gotta be that asshole's fault," Kiba grumbled.

"I don't . . . I mean, Sasuke l-looks just as u-upset as the rest of us," Hinata stuttered.

"Che- how can you tell? All I see is one emotionless, arrogant, son of a bitch. I mean, really, is this why we're all keeping quiet? Silently watching those ignorant villagers ogle over that traitor. I thought Sasuke being back was supposed to make things better for Naruto, but all it seems to have done is make things worse."

"Oh Kiba," Hinata answered sadly.

"Gods, I knew this would be troublesome," Shikamaru said with an overbearing sigh. Then, staring into Kiba's worried eyes he added, "Hinata's right, Sasuke's worried too. I don't think this is his fault, at least, not entirely."

"Partially's good enough for me," Kiba answered while crossing his arms stubbornly over his chest.

"And what exactly are you going to do about it?" came Ino's mocking voice.

Kiba turned his head, rolling his eyes as Sakura and Ino walked up. "Are you going to kick Sasuke's ass? You'd be dead within thirty seconds."

Kiba snarled, but in the end, could only look away, knowing she was right. "We have to do something. He's not right."

Looking sad, Sakura hung her head. "I know, but really, I think all any of us can do is be Naruto's friend." Then, perking up a bit, she added, "After all, this is Naruto we're talking about. If anybody can get themselves out of a slump, it's him!"

"T-that's right," Hinata agreed.

Deciding the conversation had become both troublesome and boring, Shikamaru stared across the street, noting a red haired figure with a large gourd strapped across his back walking away from Neji. And, as this red head strode away, a bright orange blur ran towards him, nearly knocking the scary looking man on his ass. What's Gaara doing here? Shikamaru thought, and was quickly followed by the next one, if Gaara's here, maybe his sister is too. Suddenly, the day became less of a drag.

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"You look troubled Sasuke, what's the matter?" Tsunade asked, barely looking up from the mountain of paperwork littering her desk.

Flopping down into a chair, Sasuke could only glare at the woman before him. He was here, at her request, and yet she didn't even seem to have the time to look him in the face. "Why am I here?"

Tsunade kept signing papers, something she usually hated, but for some reason, simply knowing it was getting under the Uchiha's skin made the process immensely more enjoyable. "You didn't answer the question."

Sasuke's eyes narrowed, something Tsunade would have seen if she'd been paying even a lick of attention to him. "Listen, old woman . . . "

Crash- Tsunade's fist landed squarely on the desk, sending papers flying everywhere. "You address me either as Lady Tsunade or Hokage-sama, got that brat. Just because Naruto gets away with addressing me that way, doesn't mean you do!"

Sitting deathly still, Sasuke's black eyes bored into the Hokage. "And Naruto can call you that because . . . "

Sitting back down, Tsunade leaned over, picking up a glass of sake which had somehow survived the assault on her desk. "Because, I like him."

Sasuke smirked, "And you don't like me."

"Exactly."

He was starting to see why Naruto liked this Hokage so much. Breathing in deeply, Sasuke started again, "Lady Tsunade, why am I here?" Secretly Sasuke finished that sentence in his head with, instead of being with Naruto.

"Thank you, that's better. Now, as per our original agreement, I want to update you on the search for your brother."

Instantly, Sasuke sat up straighter, his teeth grinding together as he said, "Please, call him Itachi."

Tsunade stared into Sasuke's angry eyes and simply nodded. "I received a report from Jiraiya. Unfortunately, he has been unable to locate your . . . Itachi."

Now it wasn't just Sasuke's eyes that were cold, but his whole body. "And that is why you wanted to see me? To tell me you know nothing?"

Tsunade smiled. "Well, I wouldn't call it nothing. We know where he's not."

Standing, Sasuke could barely contain his rage. Did this woman want to die? Why was she smiling at him while saying she knew nothing . . .

A brief knock was heard on the door before it opened, "Hey, Hokage-sama . . . "

Sasuke turned as Tsunade placed her chin in her hands. The fury on the Uchiha's face had been positively hateful. He was almost more fun to play with than Naruto. More dangerous, but that only made the game more lively. "Shikamaru, did you want something?" she asked, the sweet tone in her voice throwing Shika as much as Sasuke.

A small blush crept up Shika's face as he asked, "Uh, yeah, sorry to interrupt, but I just saw Gaara with Naruto and wondered if his sister Temari came with him."

Sasuke's eyes widened and he felt his heart stop for at least two beats before it started again. Looking from Shikamaru to Tsunade, he finally understood why she'd called him here. It was a diversion and he'd fallen for it.

"Gaara? Gaara is here. With Naruto." Sasuke's voice was cold and clipped.

Tsunade only smiled, the innocent look on her face far from convincing. "Well, I'm not sure if he's with Naruto right now, but seeing as how they're friends . . . " Tsunade's words cut off and she dropped the innocent look. She could practically feel the volatile chakra emanating from the young man before her. "Shika, you'll have to ask Gaara if Temari came. I suggest you leave now and do just that."

Shikamaru glanced from Tsunade to Sasuke and knew when to take a hint, mumbling as he left, "So troublesome . . . "

With Shika gone, Tsunade turned her full attention on Sasuke. "Get a grip, Uchiha. Killing me won't get you what you want."

"No, but it will make me feel better."

"Only temporarily."

"I doubt that."

Tsunade sighed as she leaned back into her chair. "So, do you want to kill me before or after I explain?"

Sasuke rolled his options around in his head before finally deciding to sit down. Tsunade took his response to mean after. "Something's wrong with Naruto."

-Silence.

"Ever since the incident at Azuro's grocery, he hasn't been right. Everybody knows it."

"And you blame me." It was a statement, not a question.

Tsunade shook her head. "No, surprisingly, I don't. Hell, a big part of me wishes you'd destroyed that man." Then, thinking better of her words, she added, "But don't get any ideas. If you did that, I'd still have to execute you."

"Hn, you could try."

Tsunade mentally rolled her eyes. "The point is, although he was angry at you, I don't think that's what's eating at him. Do you?"

Sasuke had to admit she was right and simply shook his head as he answered, "No."

"So, what do you think the real problem is?" Tsunade asked, wanting to know if Sasuke had figured it out.

"I think he doubts his ability to control the Kyuubi. I think he's afraid he really is what everyone in the village has accused him of for so long."

"Bingo! Everyone told me you were a genius, but after your actions these past few years, I have to say, I had my doubts."

Sasuke felt a vein in his forehead twitch as Tsunade waved a dismissive hand in the air. "Nurse your pride some other time. I don't care how much you love him, what Naruto is going through is something neither you nor I can relate. But there is someone who can."

"Gaara," Sasuke ground out.

"Gaara."

Tsunade watched the wheels of Sasuke's brain work. If you looked hard enough, you could almost see small hints of emotion filter across his stoic face. Finally, after enough time had passed, she asked, "So, are you going to kill me now?"

Sasuke's mouth curved down into a deep frown. "You really think he can help him?"

God's, how that must of hurt him to say. "Yes, I do."

"Fine. I won't interfere, but that doesn't mean I can't keep an eye on him."

Tsunade knew it was the best she was going to get and simply nodded her head as Sasuke woodenly stood from his chair and made his way out the door.

After he'd left, Tsunade reached over, opening up a new bottle of sake as Shizune walked in, her eyes widening at the mess of papers scattered across the floor.

"That bad, was it?" Shizune asked while bending over to start cleaning up the mess.

"Damn, is that boy ever possessive," Tsunade answered before gulping down her sake. Then, staring at the empty glass, she added, "Those two are going to turn me into an alcoholic."

Shizune looked up, a bewildered look on her face as she asked, "You mean worse than you already are?"

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Naruto saw Gaara coming towards him and smiled his first genuine smile in over three days. "Gaara!" he shouted before running up and tackling his friend.

Bracing himself for the blond's embrace, Gaara stood, his arms and hands firmly planted by his sides as strong arms encircled his torso. "Naruto, it is good to see you too. Now, release me."

Dropping his own arms and reaching behind his head, Naruto sheepishly smiled at his red haired friend. "Sorry Gaara, I guess I was just happy to see you."

For his part, Gaara couldn't help but feel the corners of his mouth drift up into an ever so faint smile. "It's fine," he answered, but the smile didn't last long as the last traces of happiness left Naruto's eyes, replaced by a deep sadness which didn't seem to belong.

Desperately acting like everything was normal, Naruto falsely beamed, "So, what brings you to the Leaf Village?"

If he'd had eyebrows, Gaara's face might have been a bit more expressive, but instead, he simply stared at his first friend and bluntly stated, "I was summoned to see what's wrong with you."

Naruto's mouth dropped open and he stammered, "Wha . . . what was that?"

"Are you going to make me repeat myself?"

Frowning, Naruto shook his head. "I don't know what you're talking about. Nothings wrong with me. All my wounds have healed perfectly."

Gaara stared, wondering if Naruto really believed what he was saying or not. Shaking his head, he said, "Obviously, not all of them."

Naruto stared at his feet while Gaara reached out a hand, grabbing his shirt and dragging him into a nearby forest where they could talk undisturbed. Not even bothering to fight the movement, Naruto allowed himself to be led away and plunked down in the grass below one of the oldest trees in the village. And there he sat, picking at the blades of grass around him.

"Well?" Gaara asked impatiently.

"Well what?"

"Naruto, are you seriously going to make me talk this much?"

Naruto looked up, expecting to see irritation shining through Gaara's green eyes, but instead he saw something else - patience.

Swallowing hard, Naruto stared back down at the ground. "I don't know where to start."

Gaara nodded. "How about the battle, when the Kyuubi was unleashed."

Without realizing it, Naruto scrunched down into himself, instantly hating the visions coming into his mind. "I don't remember it all," he hesitantly said. "I mean, I remember them beating me up, and one of the Akatsuki seemed very fond of . . . cutting and stabbing." At the last, a shiver ran down Naruto's spine. "And then there was Itachi. God's he looked so much like Sasuke, it was painful to look at the man."

At the mention of Sasuke's name, Gaara instantly sat up straighter, noticing Naruto didn't even seem to realize the increased level of anguish lacing his voice when he said that singular name.

"Itachi's the one who broke the seal. I was dying. I thought there were too many wounds for Kyuubi to heal. There was so much blood . . . all I could think was that I couldn't let them have it. The Kyuubi in those freaks hands," again Naruto shivered before continuing, "so, I released it. I just let it go."

Gaara felt as if there were a vice, viciously turning around his heart. His friend sounded so lost. His blue eyes so distant. And then, the distance was gone, replaced by one of pure panic. "I swear Gaara, I thought I was dying and that I'd take the demon with me. I never meant to put anyone else in danger. It's just . . . they had to die! All of them."

"But not all of them did."

Naruto rapidly blinked his eyes, barely remembering clutching Itachi's throat in his clawed hands. Then, looking back down at the ground, he answered, "No, not all of them. Itachi is not mine to kill. As much as I'd like to rid Sasuke of that burden, it would eat away at his soul knowing someone took that pleasure away from him. I just . . . I just couldn't do that to him."

Gaara folded his arms across his chest. "And you think the youngest Uchiha is strong enough to kill his brother?"

It was a simple question. Why didn't it have a simple answer? "I . . . I don't know," Naruto finally spit out, feeling his body run cold with the thought of Sasuke facing off with the horror that was his brother. He remembered all to well the results of their last show down.

Seeing that Naruto was drifting off into his own mental world, Gaara asked, "And what about Sasuke?"

Naruto's head shot up. "What do you mean?"

"I hear he's back. Lady Tsunade told me he came back and somehow used the Sharingan to remake your seal. Is that true?"

Naruto scratched his head. "Yeah, at least that's what I've been told. I really don't remember it. Well, that's not entirely true. It's more like I feel it. Does that sound weird?"

"I don't know, I've never had the bastard in my head."

No, there was definitely no love loss between Gaara and Sasuke. Chuckling softly, Naruto answered, "No, and I pray you never do."

Tilting his head to the side, Gaara asked, "And now? I hear the Uchiha is staying in the village. That he acted as your nursemaid while you recuperated, is that true?"

Instantly, Naruto felt his cheeks warm. "Well, I don't think he'd like being called my nursemaid . . . "

"Like I care what he'd like."

"What I mean is that I'm not really sure. We haven't talked about him staying or not. I've sort of . . . well, I've sort of been afraid to ask."

"So, is that what this is about? Why you're so distant and sad?"

Scrunching up his face, Naruto considered the question before shaking his head. "No . . . yes . . . I'm not sure." Blowing out a big breath, Naruto added, "That's part of it, but . . . "

"But what?"

"I lost control Gaara and I couldn't get it back. No matter how hard I fought, it was too strong. If it hadn't been for Sasuke . . . if it hadn't been for Sasuke, Tsunade would have had to kill me."

"Are you angry at her?"

Naruto nearly shot off the ground. "No! She's the Hokage, it's her job to protect this village, even from monsters like me."

Gaara's green eyes remained impassive as he spoke, "So, now you're a monster."

Completely deflated, Naruto sunk back down into the ground, hunching his shoulders. "Yeah, but not 'just now'. I've been fooling myself thinking the villagers were wrong to be afraid of me. That I was Uzumaki Naruto, not the demon living within me. But now . . . I think they've had a right to be afraid. I never want to hurt them, but what if . . . "

Gaara inwardly sighed, feeling the weight of both their burdens. "Naruto, I struggle with my demon as well. I fight for control every day and so far, I keep winning, but the day may come when I am no longer the victor. Or, that day may never come. Would you condemn me for the possibility?"

Naruto stared, eyes wide. To be certain, that was one of the longest speeches he'd ever heard his friend make. Did he condemn Gaara for what he held inside him - easy answer - Hell no! He admired Gaara for choosing to fight it. But still, " . . . Gaara, I don't . . . "

"Naruto, do you know what puts my mind at ease when I fear my control might slip, that I might reign death and destruction down on those I hold most dear?"

Slowly, Naruto shook his head.

"You."

"What?"

"I think of you. If I am lost, truly lost, I know you will be there to stop me. You will be the one to save my soul by killing my body. I trust you to be that strong."

Naruto felt his breath hitch as tears stung his azure eyes, making them shine all the brighter. "It will never come to that."

"But if it does . . . "

"It won't!"

"But if it does . . . "

Naruto gave a single nod of his head. "Ok, but I won't give up on you. Not ever!"

Gaara gave a rare, but real smile. "I expect nothing less."

In return, Naruto gave a weak smile back. "You know, that works both ways."

Now it was Gaara's turn to stare at the grass below him. "I would willingly be that person for you, but it is not my place."

Eyes wide, Naruto stuttered, "Wh . . . what are you saying?"

"I'll always be there for you. But I am not the one you need, the one your soul craves."

"What the hell are you talking about?"

Gaara stared, his green eyes devoid of emotion as he remembered the words Neji Hyuuga had so recently said to him:

Gaara was on his way to look for Naruto, when he "accidentally" ran into someone else.

"Kazekage, the Hokage has called you in? Naruto must still be struggling."

Gaara stared impassively at the bowing Hyuuga before him. Truth be told, he didn't mind Neji. At least when he spoke, the words were normally worth listening too and he didn't seem to babble nor carry on like a certain overly energetic blond he knew. Looking into Neji's white, blank eyes, Gaara simply nodded.

"I was hoping to avoid this path of events. I thought convincing Uchiha to stay would be enough."

At the mere mention of the name, Gaara felt his anger rise, his green eyes taking on a dangerous darkness which was not lost on Neji.

"Sabato-san, listen to me. If your feelings for Sasuke are anything like the rest of ours, then I know how much you detest him. What he has put both this village and especially Naruto through is unforgivable. But that doesn't change certain facts."

Gaara only tilted his head, indicating he was still listening.

"We both know how much he means to Naruto. We may hate it, but there it is, all the same. But, what I was unsure of until a few weeks ago, is how Sasuke really feels about Naruto. Although I think the others suspect, only myself, Hinata, Lady Hokage, and Hatake Kakashi know that Sasuke is in love with Naruto.

Gaara's eyes went wide, his mind racing through the past few years as his lips sunk into a deep frown of disbelief.

"I'm well aware of the history, Gaara. But upon my word and honor, Uchiha Sasuke is in love with Naruto. Now that he's admitted this fact to himself, he could no more intentionally harm a single blond hair on Naruto's head than stop hating his brother, Itachi. Both Hinata and I have seen it. Sasuke hates this village. The only reason he's staying is to be with Naruto, to protect him at all cost - both from the Kyuubi and mortal men."

Narrowing his eyes, Gaara thought over Neji's words, despising the fact that they made sense. But how did Naruto feel about Uchiha?

As if reading his mind, Neji added, "I know Naruto loves Sasuke, he'd do anything for him, but I have yet to learn if his feelings are simply of a deep friendship, or something more. I believe they are more, but I do not think Naruto is capable of acknowledging them as such at this point. You know how genuinely naive he can be."

Gaara nodded, fully aware of how blissfully ignorant Naruto tended to trend.

"I know Lady Tsunade wants you to speak with him, and I think it is a wise decision. But I'm asking you to disregard your personal feelings towards Uchiha. They need each other, more than anyone I've ever met, they need each other to survive."

Nodding once in acknowledgment, Gaara turned swiftly walking away, barely cognizant that he'd just had an entire conversation without saying a word. Then again, that was one of the reason's he liked the Hyuuga man so much.

Pulling himself out of the memory, Gaara thought back to Naruto's previous question and asked, "Are you trying to be dense?"

Naruto looked truly confused. "Now you're sounding like Sasuke-teme."

Gaara stiffened at being compared to Uchiha, but then again, they were probably more alike than he cared to admit. "Naruto, why do you think Sasuke came back to save you?"

Blue eyes shifted and looked into the distance. "I don't know. I've been thinking on it, but it doesn't make sense. I mean, he's tried to . . . " God's he still couldn't say it.

"Murder you," Gaara filled in the blank, and Naruto only nodded solemnly.

"So why would he do this now? Also, why's he still here? Iruka said that maybe he just wanted to finally come home, but I don't really think Sasuke even likes the Leaf Village anymore."

"Are you sure the Leaf Village was what Iruka was referring to when he said 'home'?"

Again, Naruto's face was full of confusion. "I don't understand." Shrugging his shoulders, Gaara thought he'd done about as much as he could, and he'd definitely spoken more than he ever wanted. "I think you will, in time."

Naruto shook his head, "As stupid as everyone seems to think I am, you would think they'd stop talking to me in riddles."

At this, Gaara let out a low chuckle, unintentionally sending shivers down Naruto's spine. "Uh, hey Gaara, please don't be offended, but you really shouldn't laugh. It's creepy."

Reaching over, Gaara did something totally unexpected. Something he knew would send the coal eyed bastard secretly watching them over the edge. Leaning over, Gaara placed a hand on top of Naruto's head, playfully running it through his golden blond locks.

Startled, Naruto turned curious blue eyes up at his friend. "Um, Gaara . . . "

"I need to be going," Gaara announced, his voice once again devoid of any emotion. "Listen to me, I'm only saying this once - you are Uzumaki Naruto - vessel for the demon Kyuubi, protector of the Leaf Village, loudmouth hyperactive ninja, friend to all, and most importantly, friend to me. You are one of the strongest people I know and I would and do trust you with both my life and those of my village."

Smiling, Naruto lunged forward, once again wrapping his arms around his friend. "Naruto - "

"Yeah, sorry about that," he said while sitting back, cheeks flaring pink as they both stood. "It was really good seeing you again, Gaara. Thanks for coming."

"It wasn't a problem. And, Naruto, promise me something."

"Sure, anything."

"When you're with the Uchiha, try keeping an open mind." And with that final, and utterly confusing statement, Gaara walked into the woods and towards a silently fuming Uchiha while Naruto simply shrugged his shoulders and began walking home.

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Sasuke watched from a distance, not bothering shielding his chakra. Naruto had never been very good at picking up on such things, and he wanted Gaara to know he was there. But as the two continued interacting, it was all he could do to remain where he was. By the time Gaara had ruffled Naruto's hair, Sasuke's palms were bleeding, his nails digging in deeply, however unnoticed. Then, as if to drive the nail further into his heart, Naruto hugged that red haired freak. Damn-it to hell, Sasuke mentally grumbled, he's touching him! And then, the two separated - Naruto running off towards the village, while Gaara began making his way towards a barely concealed Uchiha.

With his eyes forming two black holes, Sasuke bore his hatred into a very apathetic looking Kazekage.

"Sabato," Sasuke ground out, refusing to use his rightful title.

"Uchiha," Gaara answered in kind, his eyes drifting towards the twin bloody pools forming at Sasuke's sides.

An eerie silence descended between the two before Sasuke finally managed to ask, "So, how is he?"

The question surprised Gaara, but he answered it anyway. "Confused."

"About?"

This time, instead of answering, Gaara asked, "If I told you Naruto wanted to be with me, what would you do?"

Suddenly, dark eyes turned into scarlet with black tomes pinwheeling across their surface. "Is that what he said?" Sasuke's voice was empty, bleak with masked fear and pain.

Cocking his head to the side, Gaara replied, "And if it is, would you fight me for him?"

Sasuke felt his limbs going numb - the coldness debilitating. "No. I don't want to cause him any more pain. I want him to be happy," then, taking a step forward, he added, "but make no mistake, I will be there if and or when he needs me."

"You'd really let him go, even though it would kill you inside?"

"Without him, I'm dead already," was Sasuke's surprisingly honest response. Truly, he didn't know why he was telling this red headed mad man all of this. Somehow, it just made sense.

Inside, Gaara felt his gut wrench. Neji was right, Sasuke was in love with his friend. And, more to the point, he really didn't want to hurt Naruto anymore. Although it pained him to admit it, the way Naruto cared about Sasuke was different from the way he would ever care about him. And so, taking a few purposeful steps forward, Gaara pulled himself to a stop beside his hated rival, mere inches from touching. "He doesn't know what he wants, but I do, and it's not me."

Sasuke's eyes closed, the whole of his body shaking as he placed a hand on a nearby tree trunk for support (not that he'd ever admit that was the reason). Blowing out a heavy breath, he felt the air rattle from deep inside his pain filled chest.

For Gaara, it was impossible not to notice the relief spreading throughout the Uchiha's body. But mixed with it was fear, something he never would have thought he'd see coming from this man. Damn, he'd have to remember how perceptive the Hyuuga was in the future. "You asked earlier what Naruto's confused about. Partly, his own strength and ability to control the Kyuubi. But even more, he's confused about you. He can't even say what you tried doing to him in the past, let alone understand it. And now, here you are, saving his life and nursing him back to health. He lives in fear that the next time he looks up, you'll be gone." Taking a break, Gaara wondered if he'd ever talked this much before in his life and quickly made a mental note not to do it again before he dove back into the verbal waters. "Although I don't know for sure, I can guess that you've been holding back your true feelings for him in an effort not to hurt either of you further, but your only confusing him and thus causing distress. Right now, he's feeling unsure about his own abilities. He needs to be able to count on someone, and not just anyone. He needs you to stop sitting on the sidelines."

Sasuke listened in silence. Hating taking advice from Gaara of all people. "I'll be fortunate if he can ever call me friend again. Wishing for anything else is foolish."

Gaara shook his head as he started walking away. "He never stopped thinking of you as his friend."

"Maybe, but he has enough friends."

"That may be true, but to him, you are simply more."

Sasuke felt the words sink into his brain, turning with the question, "More, what . . . " but Gaara was already gone.

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Gaara walked back towards Hokage tower, intent on saying his goodbyes and getting the hell out of the Leaf Village. But as he silently walked, a figure pulled up next to him, continuing alongside in silence. "What do you want?"

Shikamaru pulled to a stop, rocking back on his heels with his hands stuffed in his pockets. "I was wondering, did Temari come with you?"

Gaara started walking again, saying a curt, "No," and was happy when Shikamaru didn't follow. But something about the man intrigued him. Hadn't he heard Temari talking about a Leaf ninja with a pony tail and an incredibly lazy attitude? He'd thought it strange at the time. Temari rarely talked about anyone outside of Suna and he'd found her interest, well . . . interesting. Stopping for a second time, Gaara turned around. "Are you Nara Shikamaru?"

Shikamaru blew out a breath. "Yeah, that's me."

Gaara thought about his sister, thinking this might be a very entertaining diversion. "According to Temari, you're not into a lot of conversation. Is this true."

Shikamaru nodded. "Using a lot of words is to much effort."

Gaara smirked. "I'm on my way to your Hokage's office. It is my understanding that despite your laziness, you're actually quite smart. There are some issues in Suna I might like your advice on."

"Really? Now, that is interesting."

"Yes, and, they are projects Temari is directly overseeing."

"Fascinating."

"Hm. We'll ask Lady Tsunade if she can spare you for a few days."

Shikamaru beamed. "Considering how little I normally do around here, I think that can be arranged."

Gaara started walking again, this time Shikamaru followed as Gaara said, "One thing."

"Yes?"

"On the way to Suna - no speaking unless asked."

"Ah, I see you've been talking with Naruto then."

Gaara nodded. "Yes, and it's been . . . draining."

"Understood." And Shikamaru was silent the rest of the way to Tsunade's office as well as his trip to Suna. Both men would remember it as a very pleasant and peaceful trip.

Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasunaru Sasu

Sasuke stayed in the forest well into the evening, thinking over what Gaara had implied. Deep in what he now understood to be his heart, there was a small ember of hope, something he'd long ago forsaken, and it scared the hell out of him. He knew all too well how fragile a thing hope could be - how quickly it was extinguished. And yet, here he was, watching the shadows increase in length as evening came, listening to the beating of his once useless heart. Listening to it's hurried pace, pushing him into some sort of action. But, what action? Now, that was the ultimate question. Shaking his head, Sasuke finally muttered, "I need to speak with the dobe." And with that, he started off in the direction of Naruto's apartment.

Naruto watched over the pot of boiling water, oblivious to the bubbles rimming the sides. Everyone, including Gaara, confused him with their riddles and half ass replies. Why wouldn't someone just come out and tell him what they meant. It was all so irritating. But Gaara had improved one thing, he no longer felt as bad about himself as before. He'd let himself become consumed with self doubt, and one thing he knew above all others was that self doubt was a useless emotion. Well, he was done with it. Uzumaki Naruto was who he was, and part of that package was a certain demon fox, known as Kyuubi. Now, if he could just figure out what was going on with Sasuke . . .

The door of his apartment opening and closing stirred Naruto from his thoughts and he turned in time to see Sasuke's dark eyes staring at him. Naruto didn't know why, but something he saw made his face feel hot, and he turned back to the stove - trying to cover the blush he felt creeping into his cheeks.

Clearing his throat, Naruto asked, "Are you hungry? I was just making some ramen."

"Ramen, again?"

"Shut it, teme. I happen to like ramen."

"Obviously," Sasuke answered, while moving into the kitchen, sitting in one of the chairs by the counter.

"Well, is that a yes or no?"

"Hn-"

Shaking his head, Naruto reached up, grabbing two packages instead of one. "I'll take that as a yes," and dumped them into the boiling water. An uncomfortable silence filled the air as Naruto grabbed two bowls and two sets of chopsticks, setting them in front of Sasuke without looking up into those damning eyes.

Soon enough, the ramen was done and Naruto filled both bowls, and two glasses with tea, moving around the counter, he sat on the chair beside his friend. Sasuke made no comment, only reached up and grabbed his chopsticks, giving Naruto an unintentional view of his bloody palms.

Stopping his hand midway to his mouth, Naruto pointed - his chopstick's full of noodles at Sasukes hand. "Hey, what happened to you?"

"It's nothing."

Naruto continued staring. The wounds didn't appear very deep, but they still looked uncomfortable. "You should wash those. I think there's still some ointment grandma Tsunade sent over with Sakura as well as some bandages."

"It's fine."

"Sasuke, don't be an idiot. Why take the chance of them getting infected . . . "

"I said it's fine," Sasuke snapped. "It's my own damn fault."

Naruto turned, his mouth agape. "What does whose fault it is have to do with anything? I don't think the wound really cares."

Sighing, Sasuke finally relented. "Fine, I'll clean them up after dinner. Happy?"

"Che - happier than I was," Naruto replied, a faint grin on his face.

"Idiot."

"Hey, is it such a crime to be worried about you?"

The noodles Sasuke had been chewing slid down his throat in an uncomfortable lump. Without moving his head, Sasuke's eyes shifted to his left, peaking at Naruto's concerned face. "Why do you still care?"

The question surprised Naruto. There was no malice in the voice, nor arrogance, just a simple curiosity. Slumping down in his chair, Naruto found he could no longer look into those empty eyes, and, shrugging, he answered, "Why wouldn't I."

Because I left you behind. Because I tried to kill you, not once, but twice. Because I really am a bastard . . . all those accusations and more ran through Sasuke's mind, but he said none of them out loud. How could he? He'd been in Naruto's mind. He knew what his friend kept trapped deep inside, carefully hidden away from the rest of his feelings. If he were to say those words out loud . . . would Naruto finally come to realize how much Sasuke had hurt him. Would he finally figure out that he just wasn't worth the trouble. That he wasn't worth being worried about. Deep down, Sasuke wasn't ready to face that possibility. Truthfully, he doubted there would ever be a time when he'd be able to face it. And so, he silently resumed eating. Neither one saying a word as Naruto cleared the bowls away, placing them in the sink to wash later.

With dinner over, Naruto said, "Lets get your hands cleaned up."

"I can do it."

"I didn't say you couldn't, but it'll go faster if I help."

Nodding, Sasuke got up from his chair, quietly following Naruto into the bathroom, letting the blond gently wash the dried blood away.

As Naruto cleaned Sasuke's hands, he couldn't help but notice the pattern of the marks, not to mention the way they must have been created. "What got you mad enough you'd do this to yourself?" he asked while applying Tsunade's ointment.

"I saw something I didn't like."

"No shit. What was it?"

Sasuke squirmed, feeling the heat rising into his cheeks as well as lower things. It wasn't that Naruto's hands were soft on his, quite the contrary - they were rough and calloused with both use and abuse. It was the gentle way he used them as he treated his wounds. And, it was the warmth they exuded, thawing a small piece of his body with their touch. Given their positions, Sasuke found himself staring down into the golden sunshine that was Naruto's hair, noticing that it wasn't simply one shade of blond, but a myriad of subtle hues all working harmoniously together to create one of the most gorgeous color schemes he'd ever seen. He was so distracted, he hadn't heard the last question.

"Sasuke?"

-Silence-

"Uh, Sasuke . . . " by now, Naruto was waving a hand in front of his eyes, finally snapping him out of his daze.

"What?"

"I think that's my line. You were kind of zoning out there."

"Hn- what did you ask?"

Naruto shook his head while grabbing the bandages. "Never mind. It wasn't important."

Slowly, Naruto wrapped the clean, white fabric around each of Sasuke's hands. Sasuke had been home for over an hour and he still hadn't gotten up the nerve to ask him anything. After his talk with Gaara, Naruto had come to a couple of conclusions. One of them being that not knowing what Sasuke's plans were, was worse than whatever the answer was. Living with the constant fear that he wouldn't be there the next time Naruto woke up was slowly eating away at what was left of his soul. Still sitting on his knees, staring down at Sasuke's bandaged hands, Naruto finally managed to ask, "Sasuke, how long are you staying?"

Sasuke jerked his hands back at the question. No, not at the question itself, but the layered pain lacing those words. He knew Naruto had tried to keep it from his voice, but the depth of his fear made it impossible and knowing how much of it he'd managed to keep hidden only made Sasuke feel worse. Unfortunately, Naruto took Sasuke's movement wrong, thinking that him pulling away could only mean that he was indeed planning on leaving again.

Standing up from his position, Naruto kept his eyes on the floor as he said, "I see," and then he walked out, headed for his bedroom and the comfort of the bed it held - wishing for that blessed numbness he'd come to rely on so heavily these past few years whenever he thought about his friend.

Sasuke sat in confusion for a moment longer before he finally rose, following Naruto. He found him curled up on his bed, his back to the doorway as he faced the wall. Leaning on the door-frame, Sasuke asked, "What do you see?"

"Huh?"

"You just said, 'I see'. So, what is it you think you know?"

"It's pretty obvious, isn't it."

Sasuke frowned. "I don't know what you're thinking dobe, so I can't really answer."

Naruto spun around, anger replacing sadness. "Stop calling me that!"

Pushing away from the wall, Sasuke walked, painfully slow over towards the bed, sitting down next to the fuming blond. "Naruto, when I leave depends on you."

Instantly, Naruto's anger faded into confusion. "What? I don't understand . . . "

"When Tsunade asked me to stay, I told her that it depended on what you wanted. That I would stay as long as you wanted me here. But if the day comes when you no longer want me . . . " Sasuke's voice faltered, just the very thought Naruto might not want him anymore . . .

Reaching out a hand, Naruto grabbed Sasuke's arm, pulling him closer. "Why wouldn't I want you here? Getting you back is all I've wanted since you left."

Sasuke felt his heart hammering away in his chest. "How can you say that, after what I've done . . . what I've put you through . . . "

Naruto grabbed Sasuke's face roughly, pulling it up so he could look directly into his obsidian eyes. "Teme - you're not leaving. End of discussion."

Sasuke felt a faint smile edging up the corners of his lips and for once, made no move to stop it. "I think we still have a lot of things to discuss, Naruto."

Letting go of Sasuke's face, Naruto let his hands fall back onto his bed sheets. The relief flooding his body left him feeling exhausted and suddenly, it was all he could do to keep his eyes open. Going up on his knees, Naruto grabbed Sasuke's wrist, pulling him down onto the bed, lying his head on Sasuke's chest as he pulled the covers over both of them. "That may be, but it can wait. Right now, I just wanna sleep."

It took Sasuke a few minutes to get over his shock at what Naruto had done, but once he did, he found himself more at peace than he'd been in years. Even his lust for his friend seemed to be on vacation as he lay there running his hand through golden locks, listening to the even breathing of his sleeping friend. Tonight, it was enough, simply lying next to his dobe. Feeling the heavy, yet reassuring weight of Naruto's body laying on his own. Yes, they definitely had things to talk about, but Naruto was right, for now, this was heaven.

Thank you so much for reading . . . more to come . . . hopefully I'll get the last chapter posted tonight.