A/N: Apologies for taking so long to update. I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long!
A big thank you to all who reviewed the last chapter. I loved reading each and every single one of them! Hope you enjoy reading this chapter, just as much :D
Credit for this chapter goes entirely to Tazicat12! I hardly did anything…
Seven Days of Seduction – Chapter 9 - Many Plans and Practice, Practice, Practice!
Pursuit and seduction are the essence of sexuality. It's part of the sizzle…
Yakima peeked over her book, silently observing the 'enemy'. While she admired Ino's confidence, an attribute she wished for, she also found her patronizing, a common adult attitude. What troubled Yakima, however, was an element she couldn't quite put her finger on.
Oh, she thought, there it is! Just for a second, when Iruka Sensei turned away, Ino gave him the oddest look.
Quickly she glanced around, to see if others had noticed. Nanau apparently had. The two girls locked eyes briefly, before canvassing the others. Yes, several girls, though none of the boys, had too.
Yakima's eyes went back to Nanau. Hidden by her own book, the other girl signed to meet after class. When Yakima's eyes dropped in agreement, Nanau repeated her signal to the others…
Iruka grinned in pleasure as he collected his things. Another day at the Academy was ending, with Ino and his class departing several minutes ago. Everything had gone smoothly. His students had been particularly well behaved for their 'enemy'. Ino had been impressed by their manners and obedience.
He'd been impressed. He'd never seen them so respectful and quiet before. Normally they would've done their best to traumatise any visitor for life. Only his daily threats of homework and detention kept him from insanity, his love for his job allowing him to cope. Every school year he got a new set of little terrors; all with the goal of making Naruto look easy by comparison.
Every year he'd hoped it'd be different. A guy could wish, couldn't he? He laughed quietly, knowing he'd have it no other way.
Their 'special mission' was obviously being taken seriously, unmistakably showing how quick and devious they were getting before graduation. Iruka was delighted with the proof of their progress.
He chuckled as he headed out. If Ino didn't deserve the lesson, he'd be sorry for her. He knew what his students were capable of; the potential calamity was frightening to consider. However, he couldn't deny a feeling of deep excitement as well. He was very eager to see his kids in action…
Tenten, strolling into Training Ground 1, immediately saw him, standing with his back to her, looking anxious. She smirked, materializing behind him to tap lightly on his shoulder. She resisted a chuckle as he jumped, startled.
"Ebisu Sensei," she purred as he quickly turned to face her, "I'm glad you're here." As his shaded eyes landed on her, he openly stared. She couldn't fault him; he wasn't the first to give her that look. Since leaving home, she'd received many, due to her present ensemble, a simple, green vest and tight fitting, white shorts. They looked painted on, with a generous display of cleavage.
She'd bumped into Neji on the way. Stunned, his eyes and, consequently, head tracked her passage; nearly knocking himself out as he walked headfirst into a lamp post. When she's leaned over him, concerned, he'd just stared, mutely, at her cleavage. She honestly couldn't blame him; she'd never exposed so much skin in front of him before. More evidence, she reflected, amused, that a bit of skin and cleavage did get men excited, proving how pitifully easy they were.
"T-Tenten," Ebisu croaked, blushing. He forced himself under control, mostly succeeding, except for the continuing redness of his cheeks.
"I suppose you'll want to start by seeing what I'm made of," she gave him an evocative look. He coughed nervously, blush deepened.
"That's correct. Let's see what progress you've made so far," he valiantly strove to appear calm.
"Of course," she pulled her large weapons scroll from its harness on her back; the movement making her breasts jiggle. She saw him swallow hard.
"Get ready, Ebisu Sensei, here I come," she sang, pulling the scroll open with a warning whoosh…
Ino almost danced home, grinning from ear to ear, uncaring of the occasional odd look. She was too busy enjoying her good luck. Everything was perfect. She didn't have to do anything. It was the ideal opportunity to seduce Iruka Sensei, with no meddlers.
She'd been worried about his students, but after meeting them, she concluded they'd be no problem. They were actually well behaved. She'd been astonished. They were, officially, the first kids she'd met who were polite and accommodating. So much so, maybe she could get them to help her.
Yes, she smiled happily; her life was looking incredibly good…
All twelve girls from Iruka's class met in a nearby park. After ensuring their privacy, they settled down in some bushes. A quick, mutual analysis commenced, as the girls pooled their first impressions of the 'enemy'. Then the dialogue turned to the puzzle of the strange looks aimed at their oblivious teacher. At first the precise, alarming quality to them proved elusive.
Then, indicating her puppy, Ginmaru, Mika Inuzuka claimed her clan dogs got the same look when offered meaty bones or favourite treats. This was vigorously discussed as the girls tried to fathom what Ino and a pack of ninken had in common. Finally Haya Aburame, in her precise way, threw out the word 'predatory'. This description was unanimously approved.
Hanae Yamanaka then hesitantly offered an overheard remark about Ino being a 'man-eater'. After a brief communal silence, Nanau voiced her doubt of a link to actual cannibalism. Careful debate followed until they agreed the remark likely fell into the bizarre, hypothetical territory known to them as sex. This led to the inevitable conclusion Ino was interested in their teacher. In that way!
Twelve eleven year old girls anxiously blinked at each other, as another silence fell. Each wrestled with the unthinkable; the merging of Iruka Sensei and sex, two plainly incompatible concepts.
Fortunately, before trauma could set in, Yakima timidly observed it was one sided. This drew an instant demand for explanation. Quietly encouraged by Amaya and Umeko, she diffidently pointed out he'd never returned Ino's looks. Didn't this mean he wasn't interested?
This lead to another quick debate on whether their teacher was aware of it. He was a guy, after all, and all of them knew how dense the species could be. Look how none of the boys had picked up on this! For a brief time, the group was evenly divided for and against Iruka Sensei's knowledge of his peril.
Then, Shina Nara shrewdly pointed out their teacher had introduced the whole 'mission' idea. He'd given them the job of keeping her away from him. Obviously this meant Iruka Sensei was aware of and didn't return Ino's interest. Indirectly, undoubtedly due to the male ego's fragility, he was begging for their help against her. They were the only ones aware of this. Didn't that mean they were requiredto do everything in their power to aid their poor teacher?
Again, a dozen eleven year olds followed this to its logical conclusion. Soon, the now seriously motivated girls separated to carry out their preparations, having all sworn to ruthlessly protect their poor, besieged and much adored teacher from Ino's unwanted attentions. Tomorrow, with the gates of the village behind them, she'd be their hated adversary…
Panting, Tenten held her opened scroll, as hundreds of weapons lay on the ground surrounding her. Ebisu, also breathing heavily, stood a small distance away.
"I admit, that was quite impressive," he adjusted his shades.
"Thank you, Ebisu Sensei" she smiled seductively. Blushing, he nodded once.
"Now, pick a weapon of your choice. Let's see how you fight in close combat," he suggested. Instantly she summoned her Chain Wind Staff.
"Interesting choice," he murmured, brow arching. Smiling sweetly, she attacked him.
"So, Ebisu Sensei…have you got a girlfriend? She lashed skilfully with her staff. He barely dodged the swing at his head, as the question caused him to temporarily freeze.
"Um…n-no I haven't. I don't have much time to date, at present, with my workload" he struggled to sound nonchalant.
"Why…not? You're….so good looking… Ebisu Sensei. I'm sure…women are…lining up…to date you," she panted. She twisted the staff fiercely around her as he ducked low. He didn't bother attacking, settling for dodging her attacks.
Then she got her chance, as he avoided a move by dropping to the ground.
Feigning a trip on a weapon, she fell forward, staff falling, just as he rose. Their bodies connected as his hands instinctively grabbed her. They landed heavily on the ground, her on top, knocking the breath out of him. For a couple of minutes, there was silence. They lay still, the only sound, their loud heartbeats and breathing, the only movement, the rise of their chests.
Her vest, already tight, gaped even more, providing a spectacular view of her cleavage. With his sunglasses off, lost in their fall, he was obviously taking advantage of the opportunity. His eyes were glued to the sight; oblivious as lower down, his body's response became increasingly clear to her.
"Oops, I'm so sorry, Ebisu Sensei" she bit her bottom lip, pretending concern, hiding her delight as she watched a crimson line trickle out of his nose. She moved to get up; making sure her breasts pressed firmly a final time against his chest.
"Ebisu Sensei?" she murmured, looking demurely to where his hands gripped her hips. He released her instantly, his face tomato red. Sitting up, she accidently sat on the bulge between his legs. He squeaked faintly, more blood gushing out of his nose. She blinked her eyes innocently, thinking how cute he'd sounded, as he stared dazedly back, his trembling hand pulling a tissue from his pocket, in an attempt to stem the flow.
"I think that's enough for today, Ebisu Sensei. I had fun," she winked, standing. She went to pick up her scattered weaponry. He repeatedly tried to respond, mutely moving his lips, his eyes locked on every tremor of her breasts, or the curve of her ass, whenever she bent down. She finished, resisting the urge to roll her eyes. It seemed he'd forgotten how to think, let alone speak, still motionless. Finally, she placed her refilled scroll down, walking towards him, bending to lean close to his ear.
"I like you,Ebisu Sensei. Would you go out for a drink with me?" she sensually whispered. With a shocked gasp, his trembling body suddenly convulsing, before he finally nodding slowly.
"Great! I'll meet you here, tomorrow at 7pm," she smiled, aiming one last heated look at him, as she moved off. Bending slowly to grasp her rolled up scroll; she walked away without a backward glance, hearing another cute, faint squeak, followed by a thud, behind her. She giggled. Now that had been so easy…
A couple of hours before dusk, Kakashi called Team Seven's stop for the night, leading them to a secluded valley. As they wiped sweat, enjoying a warm evening breeze, he assigned their chores, before dismissing them, telling them sentry duty would be discussed after camp was set up.
Naruto headed out to collect firewood, while Sasuke took their largest pot to collect cooking water from a stream down the valley. They'd also be looking for various wild herbs, mushrooms and other edibles, to supplement their meal, as well as signs of other people in the vicinity.
Sakura glanced over at Kakashi, as she perused their food supplies, watching him prepare a spot for the campfire. She reflected back on what she'd learned just hours ago. She wasn't quite over the shock, but had begun to accept it. And, with the boys gone, there were questions she had to ask.
"Kakashi Sensei? I was wondering…did you know Naruto was bi?" curious, she looked up, to see his reaction.
"Yes," he calmly replied, carefully cutting grass sections away from bare earth and setting them aside. "I figured it out shortly after he got back from travelling with Jiraiya. It was an obvious conclusion when I saw him checking out Gemna and Neji with the same enthusiasm he looks at girls." He regarded her, "Jiraiya confirmed it, when I asked. I take it you just found out? Does it bother you?"
"Oh, no," she assured him, "It was just…a surprise. I mean, after his big crush on me, I never suspected he'd like boys too."
She debated their culinary options, as he searched for palm-sized stones, before adding, "What about Sasuke?"
"Sasuke?" he looked up, hands full.
"Did you ever think he's gay?" she watched him drop his stones on the patch of dirt, before looking for more.
"Well," he finally replied, after a brief silence, "I've wondered, especially with his recent monopoly of Naruto, but truthfully, he's always seemed asexual to me. He's never shown sufficient interest in either gender, to prove he has a sex drive," he dropped more stones, continuing, "I also wondered if it might account for his obsessive drive in other areas, like his vendetta against Itachi, or his plans to destroy the Leaf."
"I never thought of that," she stared at him, eyes wide, contemplating the idea. The last vestiges of her self loathing for her futile obsession fell away, as she realised, if the most observant man she knew hadn't been certain about Sasuke, she wasn't so stupid after all. It was a revelation.
She embraced it, feeling like undetected barriers were melting away, allowing her to fully accept the afternoon's surprises, feeling it settle into her bones. Her perceptions altering to match, she clearly saw how she'd instinctively used her own obsession as protection. She growled, annoyed, knowing Ino was right…again. She'd used Sasuke as an excuse, to hide, from other relationships where she'd risk painful heartbreak. Irritated at her cowardice, her new determination was to treat it like her previous problems, facing it directly, working to grow stronger, for herself and those she loved.
She looked up, a package of dried meat in hand, to see Kakashi curiously regarding her as he fashioned a stone circle in the dirt for their fire.
"Do you think Sasuke's gay?" he asked.
"Yes, he is. I found him with Naruto during our afternoon break. They both confessed. Sasuke seemed confused and uneasy, though, like it was all new to him," she placed rice, dried vegetables and herbs next to the package of meat. "What do you think we should make? Soup or stir fry and rice?" she looked up to see him sitting still, staring at her, concern in his wide, lone eye.
"So, Sasuke confirmed it?" his tone was gentle, "Is that why you've been so quiet? It must've been a shock. No wonder you're asking about this. Are you alright?"
"Of course," she assured him, smiling, "I'm fine. It just took me a while to get used it. It's sweet, but you don't need to look out for me."
"I'll always look out for you, Sakura," his eye creased into a smile, "and I think stir fry and rice sounds good. Well," he continued, amusement back in his voice, "that takes care of one problem."
"Problem?" puzzled, she watched him set the last stone in place.
"Yes. I've been wondering how we'd get privacy to practice. If the boys are…interested in each other, it won't be as hard as I thought. Did you forget about Ino's challenge?" he cheerfully reminded her, adding, "We need to practice if you want her and the other girls to believe our act. We don't have much time left to do it."
In the distance, Sasuke came into view, pot of water in hand and green vegetation peeking out of his pockets…
The shopkeeper suspiciously eyed the small group of boys. They'd been intently perusing his stock for more than an hour, occasionally huddling to debate. They were doing it now, talking in excited whispers, while one held up a box of itching powder, another, a whoopee cushion. A third seemed to be in favour of the pre-cut, tag sized chakra paper. Finally, chuckling happily, they headed to the till with their booty.
"You boys sound like you're up to no good," the shopkeeper observed, scanning the items. One giggled, receiving a harsh elbow to his side.
"Oh, no, sir! This is for my little brother's birthday," the one with the quick elbow handed him their money. The shopkeeper's look was sceptical as he handed back their change. He watched them leave with their purchases, shaking his head in compassion for whoever they were preparing to torment…
"It'll take how long?" Naruto glared at the simmering food, stomach growling. "If I'd known, I'd have brought instant ramen! That way, I'd just have to boil water, and then wait three minutes. I could've been eating by now! Believe it!" He dropped to sit nearby, still muttering about ramen, as his team mates exchanged glances.
"Well, if you want a good dinner, you'll just have to wait," Sakura fumed. She couldn't believe how childish he was at times.
"But Sakura," he whined, as her fists clenched, clear warning her anger was peaking. Their team mates flinched in anticipation, knowing mayhem was seconds away.
"Naruto, there's no point in complaining," Kakashi tried to halt the confrontation.
"Yeah, idiot, knock it off," Sasuke joined in, "You're not the only one waiting."
"But I'm hungry!" the blonde moaned, belly agreeing loudly.
"If you're going to continue this, you can take first watch," Kakashi said sternly.
"What? I thought we stopped early to take it easy," Naruto's look was sorrowful.
"Do I need to remind you of the danger?" Kakashi sighed tiredly, "Really, Naruto, you know we're all in the bingo books. Any missing nin looking for a good bounty would love to find us 'taking it easy'. That's why there's no 'easy' until we're through the village gates. Do I have to explain why after the fight this morning?"
"No," the chastised blonde sighed.
"I think this morning was too easy," Sakura told him, "It wasn't a challenge for you, and you're restless. Maybe you should take a run after dinner, get more exercise so you can settle down before your watch."
"Yeah, maybe," he replied, "Thanks, Sakura…"
Iruka, fresh from a short shift on the mission desk, heard a familiar voice call, "Hello, Iruka Sensei." Turning, he saw two of his kids, Shina, and Yuki, carrying several bags.
"Hello, girls. Almost ready for tomorrow?" he smiled at them.
"Yes, Sensei, we're just finishing up. Are you heading home too?" Yuki asked.
"No, I'm going to see a friend at the hospital," he told them. "After that, I'll head home."
"I hope your friend's all right, Iruka Sensei," Shina politely said.
"He's going to be fine. He'll probably be released soon," Iruka replied.
"Oh, good," Yuki smiled. She glanced at Shina before adding, "I'm sure everything will be just fine on the trip, Iruka Sensei. You don't have to worry about anything."
"Oh? That's good," Iruka blinked, puzzled by the reassurance.
"We have to get home, now," Shina quickly nudged her friend and they moved off waving good bye.
Waving, Iruka blithely moved on, wholly unaware he'd acquired an honour guard of fiercely protective little girls...
Sakura watched the boys leave, Sasuke having opted to join his friend. Regarding his back, she knew she hadn't been the only one troubled about the afternoon's events. Sasuke's attitude suggested he had questions of his own. She genuinely hoped Naruto could give him answers.
Sighing, she finished sealing the food and clean pots in a small scroll, bending to store it in her pack. She stood, turning. Immediately, she jumped backward yelping, nearly tripping, startled to find Kakashi right behind her. His eye crinkled in amusement.
"Kakashi Sensei! You startled me!" she gasped.
"Sorry," he replied, carelessly, before singing out, "Practice time, Sakura. I think our first act should be a simple dinner date. Do you have any objections or other suggestions?" He regarded her happily, as she shook her head no.
"Alright, we have our plan. Now…you've been reading Icha Icha," his eye twinkled mischievously at her, "What have you learned that could be useful in this situation?"
Sighing, she walked back to the fire as she considered her answer. Trying to stall, she asked, "I'm having tea, do you want some too?" She poured hot water in a tin cup, adding tea leaves.
"Sure," he followed her, taking the second cup she held out. Patiently, he waited, for the tea to steep and her answer.
"Well," she began reluctantly, "quite a few of the stories suggest a short dress with a low neckline is indispensable, but I'm sure that can't be true. Men can't be so simple to fall for that!"
"Yes, it is and they can," he confirmed easily, amused by her open disbelief. "Believe me, Sakura; even in our profession, we'll do anything for a woman in a revealing dress, including die."
"So, you're telling me all it takes is a bit of skin and cleavage?" she sarcastically challenged, "Even for you, Kakashi Sensei?"
"Well, I try not to succumb on missions," he allowed, "that tends to have deadly consequences I'd rather avoid, even when she's on the same side. Off mission, I'm just as vulnerable as any other heterosexual male."
She frowned, struggling to grasp the appeal, before finally, sighing, "Maybe I'm just not the romantic type. I can't see it. I mean, I see fully naked people all the time and it's just not that exciting, so how can a bit of fabric make a difference?"
Kakashi blinked, taking time to absorb this. The memory of another team mate, a gentle brunette with a quiet smile, made him frown. Briefly silent, he considered the many similarities and differences she had with the feisty pinkette before him. *What are you trying to tell me, Rin?* he wondered, before deciding a few questions might help.
"Could you explain?" he asked, "What do you mean by that?"
"Oh, come on, I'm a medical ninja. I've done my share of the annual physicals practically from the start of Tsunade's training and the Leaf Village has thousands of active shinobi. I've seen practically everybody naked at least once, by now, including Team Seven," she snorted, "especially this team, since I'm the official medic. Even you…well…except for your face," she amended, glancing at his mask.
"I've done so many; I don't remember when I started. It's a never-ending cycle, rinse, repeat." She sipped her tea, sourly speculating on the boring duty.
"Tsunade tends to be a brute force teacher," Kakashi observed, grinning as he heard her mutter, "You're telling me?"
"The fourth day of March," he told her, "Three months, two weeks and five days after you became her apprentice."
"What?" she blinked puzzled, lifting her cup to sip.
"The first day you began doing physicals," he replied, "You were still thirteen, three weeks from your birthday. Tsunade assigned them to help you develop a good professional attitude." Sakura froze, staring wide eyed, cup partway to her lips.
"W-what…w-when…the…h-how…how can y-you remember when I d-don't," she stammered, astonished, as his eye crinkled at her.
"Well, I suppose it's a matter of perspective," he cheerfully replied. "I don't perform physicals…or not professionally." He rubbed his mask as she squinted at him, sure there was wide grin under it, "I do, however, have only one female student. So when I find her stumbling down the road, moaning loudly and swearing she never wants to see another person naked, ever…well…let's just say it makes quite an impression."
"I…did that? Ooooh…I did…do that…didn't I?" her voice faint, the lost memory slowly surfacing, Sakura clutched her head, her face heating. He took advantage of her distraction to drink.
"It took two full helpings of tempura and a triple helping of dango to ease your trauma," he recalled nostalgically, enjoying her comical, blushing face. She moaned, face palming.
"I think it's also why you're having trouble understanding," she looked at him, seeing his seriousness. Wordlessly, she motioned him to continue.
"Since early adolescence, you've been trained to maintain a professional attitude when faced with certain stimuli, burying your natural reactions. As a medic, you have to be objective, focusing on your patients' problems, and using emotional detachment at need. The emphasis is on intellectual knowledge, requiring a logical method, a sterile and often narrow outlook, even if it's of the human body.
Normal sexual desire is the exact opposite. Emotional detachment is impossible, as emotion is a major part of it, both for your and your partner. Sensuality and seduction involves the heart, body and mind, encompassing the emotional, physical and intellectual. It's a messy, confusing process, incredible in its diversity. There are few true rules to go by; the only way to learn is through personal experience. Logic and objectivity can cause more problems than they solve," he scrutinized her face, to see if she understood.
"So…I'm not normal," she said slowly, as he shook his head.
"Of course you're normal. Just unintentionally hampered in certain areas, due to your training," he assured her.
"How did you figure that out so quickly?" she asked, baffled.
"Um…actually, I've seen it before, in another medic who was trained young," he glanced away, plainly unwilling to explain, his voice so controlled only familiarity allowed her to hear his grief.
"Oh," she said softly. Hoping to cheer him up, she thought fast, before grinning at him. "Well," her eyebrow arched, teasingly, "I thank you for the insight, Kakashi Sensei, but you're not getting out of your prostrate and STD exam!"
"Why, Sakura," he drawled, "I'm hurt! You know I genuinely value your concern for my health," his eye glinted in anticipation.
"Have I ever mentioned," he added, as she raised her cup, "that I'm not the only one? My 'Little Kakashi' does too." she choked, "particularly your gentle touch when handling him!"
*Gotcha*, he thought, grinning deviously, as wide eyed, she spewed a wide arc of tea from mouth and nose. Casually, he flicked off the few drops that reached him.
She glared over the hand on her nose, coughing briefly, before spluttering, "L-little K-Kakashi? I c-can't believe you n-name it! Men actually d-do that, like it's a p-person?" she breathed deeply, "I didn't believe anyone would do that!" She sipped her tea, trying to ease her nasal ache.
"Well, it does often have a mind of its own," he cheerfully observed, "and that's mild, as far as names go. I've heard worse."
"Not possible," she acidly growled, brushing at tea droplets on her clothes. He took another lightning fast mouthful, his mask in place before she looked up.
"You've never heard Gai after one sake too many," he accepted the challenge, watching her raise her cup again.
"Though I suppose," he added, thoughtfully, "his upgrade to 'Mighty Oak of Springtime Love," she gagged helplessly, "is better than 'Brave Little Acorn of Youth." He considerately patted her back, as she bent over wheezing. And in a final lightning move he finished his tea.
"T-Too much…information!" she gasped, "I…really…d-didn't need to…know that!" She knew she'd never see Gai without remembering!
"Then we'll have to get back on track," he cheerfully told her.
"On track?" she echoed, trying to erase Gai from her brain.
"Practice, Sakura! We need to practice! I believe," he mused, setting aside his empty cup, "we'll start with walking."
"Kakashi Sensei, I know how to walk," she glared, thinking he was joking.
"You know how to walk by yourself," he amended, "not as a couple…"
Yamato laughed at Iruka's tales of his kids' plans, astonished at their scope and originality.
"I must say, Iruka Sensei, it sounds like fun. I wish I could be there to see it! I have to commend you on your masterful prankster and leadership skills. With everything you and your class have planned, Ino isn't going to know what hit her!" he regarded the teacher with approval. " Too bad I can't help myself, instead of being stuck here. I'd love to take part!"
"When are you due to be released?" Iruka asked.
"According to Tsunade, sometime tomorrow, but I'm supposed to take it easy, for another day. At least it'll be in my own bed," Yamato was looking forward to it.
"So, you'll be fine for…um…light duty, after that?" Iruka rubbed his scar thoughtfully.
"Probably," Yamato replied.
"Are you serious? About wanting a part?" the teacher asked.
"Yes, very serious," the ANBU sat up, regarding his visitor with interest. "Do you have one for me?"
"Well…I have a great idea for a finale, after I return, but I'm not too certain…" Iruka regarded him, his look assessing.
"Why don't you explain, Sensei?' Yamato leaned forward, thoroughly intrigued, "Maybe we can work something out…"
"Oy, Sasuke," Naruto asked, leaping to another branch, "are you alright? You haven't said much since we started out."
Sasuke silently raced beside him a moment, before blurting, "How'd you find out?"
"Huh?" Naruto blinked, "Find out what?"
"How'd you find out you were bi?" he expanded impatiently.
"Well," Naruto said slowly, "I think part of me always knew, but the rest of me didn't"
"Naruto, get serious," Sasuke demanded, surprising him into slowing the pace.
"I'm being serious," the blonde's tone was wounded, "Remember; I was alone a lot as a kid. I didn't have people around to explain things. I had to figure them out from what I saw around me. So, I thought my only choice was girls. I mean, that's what all the magazines and books said."
"Wait," Sasuke stared at him, "You mean you actually read?"
"Hey," hot blue eyes glared back, "I can read!"
"Okay, okay. Just keep talking," Sasuke conceded.
Naruto ran in silence for a second, before continuing, "Now, when I think back, I wonder if it's the reason my Sexy no Jutsu is so good. If, deep down, I perfected it because I liked the way guys looked at me when I used it."
Sasuke blinked; surprised such an insightful remark had come from the famous 'knucklehead'.
Naruto glanced over, grinning. "Remember the day the Genin teams were assigned? When I got knocked into you and we wound up kissing?" He laughed. "If only we both knew back then, huh?"
"Yeah," Sasuke said softly, recalling how fixated he'd been. Would it have changed anything? He…didn't think so. His obsession with Itachi had been his life. It hadn't left room for anything else. When Itachi died, he'd immediately hid behind the shield of another obsession. He'd known no other way to survive the sudden loss of his first. He'd existed, not lived, behind it.
Until Naruto managed to tear through, reminding him of Team Seven, that 'family' wasn't limited to being born into one. His worst nightmares featured what he might've become, if he hadn't.
"So," he shook himself out of the past, "When did you figure it out?"
"During my travels with the Pervy Sage, not right away, though. See, he'd stop to do 'research'," he dropped to another branch, "Which really meant he was spying on girls. I usually tried to stay away."
"I thought you liked girls too," Sasuke was puzzled.
"I do," Naruto claimed, "but sooner or later, he'd get caught. You've never seen girls rampaging, right?"
"Girls rampage?" he looked doubtfully at the blonde, thinking he was joking.
"Yeah, they rampage! I'd sooner face the entire shinobi army than girls rampaging," he shuddered, "It's terrifying. And it's painful, if you get in the way. Believe it!"
"And how is this relevant?" Sasuke questioned.
"See, while the Pervy Sage was busy, I was on my own. Occasionally, I'd get hit on by other guys, especially as I got older. I was attracted, but didn't know how to deal, so I'd wind up pounding on them. I was really confused for a while, until the Pervy Sage noticed and began to ask questions. Then, he sat me down and explained what was happening with me. I was surprised, since I didn't know liking guys was allowed." Naruto slowed to a stop, Sasuke following his lead.
"How does it work…being bi?" he asked, feigning indifference, "Do you like both guys and girls equally?"
"Um…not really, most have a preference, but the person can count more than the gender," the Jinchuriki ran his hand through his hair, anticipating the next question.
"And your preference is…"
"Nine times out of ten, I usually choose girls," he sighed, as Sasuke flinched. "Look, what I told Sakura this afternoon is true, we're both interested, but don't know where it'll go yet. Yeah, I generally like girls more, but it also depends on the person. We've already got trust and friendship and we know we're attracted. I'm willing to take the chance if you are. We can go as fast or slow as we like."
He put his hand on Sasuke's cheek, forcing him to look at him. For a brief time blue eyes searched black, subtle clues telling him Sasuke was still confused and insecure, both with the situation and his sexuality, recalling old memories of rocky times on his own path of self discovery.
He appreciated again, how lucky he'd been, to have Jiraiya to help him over those bumps. The Sannin had proved as big-hearted as he'd been unabashedly perverted. He'd handed out generous proportions of gentle dry wisdom, astute suggestion and comic relief at need. In darker times, he'd provided a warmly consoling shoulder for tears, a silently patient ear for troubles. With a pang, Naruto knew he'd always love him, miss him, his lost precious person. And, in his honour, he'd strive to be as supportive to this, another of his precious people.
"Look, Sasuke, I know what you're going through. You have to realise you're not alone," he smiled gently at him.
"There are lots of other people, even some ninja, who've been through it, are going through it or will be. The first thing you need to do is accept it. It's part of you. It can be confusing, even scary, and, no lie; you'll see some prejudice because of it. But I promise, it gets better," he sighed, blue eyes candidly meeting Sasuke's.
"Unfortunately, it's one of those things you've got to go through it to get to the other side, there's no short cut."
Sasuke took a moment to absorb this. He knew he'd need time and privacy to deliberate before coming to terms with the knowledge. Reluctantly, he looked away from the breathtaking honesty in those blue eyes, moving a short distance, until he'd regained his poise. Only then did he turn to speak.
"You've got to start your watch soon, so I'd better head back," he said, evenly.
"Yeah," Naruto grimaced, "Look, just think over what I've said. I'll be here if you need to talk. It helps."
"I know. I'll see you back at camp later," Sasuke leaped into the trees. Naruto watched him until he was out of sight, before moving to start watch duty…
Hinata closed the fifth Icha Icha book, blushing dramatically as she finished reading the vivid sex scene between the two characters in the last story. Images of Naruto and her filled her mind, playing out the scenes she'd read. She wanted him - she'd worked that out as she'd grown older and learned about the intimate ways of sex. She wanted him to touch her, kiss her and make love to her, exactly like the characters did in the book. It was why she'd remained a virgin for so long, silently hoping deep down that he would be her first and, corny as it sounded, her only. She couldn't bear the thought of being with anyone else. It was literally impossible. Her love and obsession were too deep, developing steadily over more than a decade now.
Getting out of bed, she hid her book with the rest of them, pulling out the next. Her eyes landed on the shopping bags and with a small smile, she opened one in particular. She pulled out a sleeveless violet silk dress with thin straps, which she knew would fit snugly against her breasts, clinging to her waist before flaring out, to swirl around her thighs. But the reason she'd fallen in love with it wasn't due to that. It was because of the exquisite design in white, which encircled the dress's waistline. There was no doubt about it, the dress was stunning and when she'd tried it on, she felt beautiful. Her eyes shining happily as she twirled around, causing the skirt to dance.
Tenten had gawped when she'd seen her, nodded excitedly, saying she had to buy it and she'd done so. It was now officially her favourite dress, one she wanted to save for the perfect occasion she hoped would happen. She wanted Naruto to see her wearing it.
Feeling hungry, she decided the next book would have to wait while she grabbed a bite to eat. Hiding it underneath her pillow, she headed for the kitchen…
Okay, Sakura thought, this isn't too bad, as she walked beside Kakashi. She experimented with swinging their joined hands, noting how warm and solid his felt in hers. She liked it, she decided, as they ambled in a circuit around the camp, quietly appreciating the birdsong around them. For a few seconds further, she kept reality at bay, before sighing.
"Kakashi Sensei, if this is all our performance is going to consist of; Ino's going to laugh us out of the village. She'll never buy it."
"Well, I'd say we have this in hand," Kakashi said casually, as she groaned at the pun. "So we can go to the next step."
"Next step?" she asked.
Taking her hand, he placed it in the fold of his elbow, so now they walked arm in arm. This forced her into closer proximity with him, near enough to feel his body heat, occasionally bump hips. Instinctively, her free hand joined the other on his arm, feeling the firm hardness of his bicep. Unbidden, memory came of how leanly muscular Kakashi was, under that uniform. Feeling the smooth flex of arm muscle, she bit her lip, suppressing a shiver.
"Are you alright?" Kakashi asked, noting a light flush to her cheeks.
"Um, yeah, I'm fine," she blinked up at him, distracted by her own reactions.
"On to the next," he gently pulled her closer, moving her hand to his waist as his own moved to hers.
This brought their sides flush against each other. She stiffened, before slowly forcing herself to relax, matching strides with him. She was keenly aware of his body, its heat and hardness, as it met hers, interacted intimately, from shoulder to thigh, with each step. Her free hand found its way to his, on her waist, covering it, a move he echoed. Her arm recorded his shifting back muscles, bare of the flak jacket he'd removed at the start.
Her reactions under this onslaught of sensation, was confusing. There was a tension in her lower belly, strange, yet surprisingly pleasant. She felt a growing desire to get closer, to bask in his body heat. Suddenly aware of thoughts of the surprising softness of skin over hard muscle, she turned her blushing face away. Her hope of escaping notice proved forlorn. Her inattention caused her to trip and he instinctively caught her, pulling her even closer. A shiver ran through her as the answering jolt in her belly caused her breath to hitch, almost gasping.
"Sakura?" he eyed her bright blush, sensitive of her agitation. "Do you want to take a break?"
"Um…maybe we should," she uneasily avoided his eye. He gently separated from her. She immediately missed him, feeling abandoned. She shivered again, from the loss of his warmth.
They walked another circuit around the camp as she fought for composure. She couldn't believe herself! She'd trusted Kakashi with her life countless times. They'd been in situations where they'd seen each other or been forced into contact much more flagrant than this. Only girl on the team, she'd learned quickly that modesty died fast in the field, doubly so for a medic.
This made her reactions to him now so baffling. Maybe if she tried to consider it as a…moving hug? Would that work? Then he'd never find out and she could save herself from embarrassment. She glanced furtively at Kakashi, only to find his eye bright with interest watching her back.
Yeah, she sighed in irritable resignation, fat chance of that! The damn man noticed everything. If she wanted to humble Ino, she'd have to suck up the embarrassment and get on with it.
"Ready to continue?" his eye crinkled, as he invited her back into his embrace. She slipped back into her former position; aware part of her was thrilled to return. All that was missing, she thought sourly, was for Inner Sakura to dance around singing Hallelujahs.
Hoping talk would distract her, she asked, "Kakashi Sensei, is all this really necessary?"
"If we're going to convince Ino we're lovers, we have to appear intimate," he calmly answered,"This means you need to be comfortable with me in sexually stimulating situations to be believable. It's fairly simple to tell the state of a couple's relationship by how they act together. It's common practice to use that on missions where the objective is to cause strife or seduce one of the pair. Ino's been on a few of those, so she'll be aware of the signs. We won't have room for mistakes."
"And this is the only way to achieve that?" she dourly foresaw more indignity in her near future.
"Well," he rubbed his head ruefully, "Yes. It's a situation where experience counts. We need to discover and work with what you'll be comfortable doing. With the time constraints, it's quicker and easier to find out by doing."
"Yeah," she sighed, reconciled to her doom, "I can see that."
He glanced down, taking in her glumness. Considering ways to lighten her mood, his eye twinkle mischievously, as an idea formed.
"Ready for a simple variation?" he cheerfully asked.
"I guess so," gleefully, he saw she wasn't paying strict attention. Carefully removing her hand from his waist, he repositioned it, squeezing her hand to ensure she firmed her grip. He waited for her to notice as they walked on.
Sakura gradually became aware of the continuous flexing of muscle in the palm of her hand. Puzzled, glanced at Kakashi, finding him studiously ignoring her. Instantly wary, her eyes narrowed, trying to fathom what was happening.
When she noticed the flexing matched his stride, comprehension dawned, causing her eyes to fly wide. But, before she could act, an annoyed voice behind them interrupted…
Satisfied, Ino sat back on her bed. Everything was ready, her lingerie inside her backpack, a scroll set aside for the morning, to store the refrigerated wine coolers and snacks in. While packing, she'd planned possible stratagem, making contingencies for everything she could think of, on the grounds it would save her precious time later.
Tomorrow was the fifth day, leaving only two more to go. In total, she'd have two days and one night to accomplish her goal. They'd return to the village late on the sixth, leaving her with little remaining time to act, so this trip was probably her last, best chance. With the kids nothing to worry about, she'd only have Iruka to deal with. Smirking, she considered her plan again, knowing it had no chance of failing.
Content, she decided to call Tenten, to discover how her 'training' with Ebisu had gone. Getting comfortable for a good chat, she dialled her number on her bedside phone, waiting while it rang several times before Tenten answered with, "Hello?"
"It's Ino… So, tell me…what happened with Ebisu?" she inquired, hungry for gossip…
"What the hell is going on here?" Sasuke glared at them.
Belatedly, she reclaimed her hand from its snug grip on the left side of Kakashi's ass. Her face flamed in embarrassment.
"Um…nothing," she blinked, experiencing a skewed deja vu.
"That didn't look like nothing" he pointed out, impatiently, "Are you in a relationship?"
"No, it's nothing like that," she protested, before hissing, "Jump in anytime, please," to where Kakashi watched in amusement.
"Actually, I'm helping Sakura with a problem," he obligingly supplied.
"Uh huh," Sasuke was cynical, "Just what problem could she have that requires her to grab your ass?"
"A matter of a challenge, from Ino," Kakashi expanded, as Sakura wished for a quick death.
"Riiiight," Sasuke glanced dubiously between them, a faint glint in his eye.
Sakura's eyes narrowed, suspecting payback for his afternoon embarrassment. She shot her own look between the two men, irritation rising. She debated who to kill first, Kakashi, for starting this, or Sasuke, for taking reprisal.
Regrettably, Sasuke thwarted her plans. With flawless timing, he parted with a cool, "Whatever!" stalking back to camp, leaving her to stare after him.
"Well, now that's over," Kakashi said cheerfully, as she turned to glared at him, "Let's move on to something else…"
When her phone rang, Hinata looked up from her book, and then moved to answer it.
"Hello?" she said.
"Hinata? It's Tenten. I just spoke to Ino. She thinks we should meet tomorrow," Tenten told her.
"What time?" Hinata mentally reviewed her plans for the next day.
"In the morning, at her place, before she has to leave," said Tenten.
"That's fine. I can be there" she answered.
"Great, see you tomorrow then," said Tenten, before they exchanged goodbyes, hanging up…
Kakashi, pleased for his foresight, effortlessly juggled the two tea cups, and small box of dango. After Sasuke left, he'd recognised the signs of mayhem in Sakura's eyes. Allocating her to prepare a nearby small clearing, he'd prudently made a temporary escape while she calmed down. He'd originally brought the dango as a practice aid. Now it'd also dispel any lingering risk of her killing him.
Reaching the clearing, he saw she was just finishing, positioning a final log, before noticing him.
"So, you're back, Kakashi Sensei," she looked around her, "Is this what you wanted?"
"It's fine, Sakura," His eye assessed the makeshift log 'table' and 'chairs', "Good work."
He set his burden on the 'table', the cups on opposite sides, the dango the middle. Then, he grandly invited her over with, "Please be seated, Sakura," before sitting himself. She sat opposite to him, her eyes wary as they travelled between her tea and him.
"You're not planning to make me spit out or gag on this, are you," her eyes narrowed suspiciously.
"Sakura," he playfully reprimanded, "How can you think such a thing?"
"Oh, I don't know," she replied drolly, "Experience maybe? I mean it, Kakashi Sensei; you've been in a real teasing mood tonight."
"Really?" he tilted his head, eye dancing, "I never knew you considered me a tease, Sakura."
She scowled; irritated with the easy way he'd turned her own words against her. Hoping it wasn't a forewarning, she decided discretion was in order. Besides, she was becoming curious.
"So, what're we doing now?" she asked, glancing over the 'table's' contents.
"We've covered the pre and post portions by 'walking', so now we're at the main event," he informed he, eye crinkling, "Welcome to dinner at Chez Kakashi."
"And what happens at Chez Kakashi?" she regarded him curiously.
"Well, let's see," he considered his options. "Why don't we start with this? Hungry?" he asked as he opened the box, removing a dango stick, offering it to her. When she reached her hand out, he pulled it back.
"Uh-uh, not that way," he told her.
"Then how am I supposed to eat it?" she asked perplexed. He waited his gaze steady on hers. For a brief moment she stared back, puzzled, before comprehension dawned.
"You want to feed me," she blinked as he nodded, motioning her to lean toward him. Slowly, hesitant, she complied.
"Oh, wait," he forestalled her, returning the dango to the box. Bemused, she observed him remove his gloves with quick efficiency. Then to her amazement, he pulled his forehead protector off his scarred left eye, exposing his closed sharingan.
"There," he said, reclaiming the dango. Placing his elbows on the 'table', he leaned forward, offering it to her. Placing her own elbows, she also leaned, glancing at the dango before gazing steadily at him. He moved the dango closer to her lips and they opened to accept it. He watched her carefully pull the treat off the stick, instinctively licking her lips after. They repeated the manoeuvre several times, before Sakura leaned slightly back, her hands in front of her.
"So, is this all? It seems pretty simple," she glanced at the dango, "Don't you want any, Kakashi Sensei? They're good."
"I'm glad you like them," he reached his hand out covering one of hers. Casually, his thumb stroked the soft skin of her wrist. Startled, her eyes locked on his, the warm gaze in them capturing her effortlessly. Distracted, she didn't notice the disparity at first. Then she realised she was looking into a mismatched pair, one dark, the other crimson accented by onyx tomoe. She wondered when and why he'd opened it, her brow furrowing.
"Kakashi Sensei, you're not using a genjutsu for this, are you?" she asked, suspiciously.
"No," he assured her, "I just thought two would be more effective." Noting it was true by the tomoe's sluggish speed, she dismissed the concern, valuing the rarity of seeing both eyes.
His thumb continued its slow caress. His hand lifted hers, his second joining it to gently massage and stoke. Their solid warmth recalled earlier sensations in vivid detail. Looking away, she repressed a shiver at their intensity.
"Are you alright," his voice was warmly, deeply masculine, evoking nameless yearnings aroused by memory. She wordlessly nodded, blushing, the pleasant tension back in her belly.
"Sakura," the syllables rolled out in a verbal caress, quiet, warm, loving, her name exotic in a way she'd never heard before. Her eyes were drawn helplessly back to his, as he turned her hand, tracing palm lines lightly with gentle fingers, causing goosebumps to shiver across her arms.
Her eyes, Kakashi thought, were stunning, wide, green and movingly trusting as she gazed into his. Deeply appreciative of that trust, loath to betray by accident, he kept his moves slowly gentle, alert for signs he was exceeding hers limits. Drawing her hand toward him, he brushed masked lips over knuckles, delighted to hear her breath catch. He ran a hand down her arm, off it completely, into the dango box. Slowly he drew out a stick, leaning closer to hold it to her lips.
"More?" he asked softly, smile quirking beneath mask, enjoying her reaction.
Hearing the soft question, Sakura's mind conjured two totally different interpretations. While one took it to mean the obvious more dango, another whispered a blissful interpretation of more Kakashi. She was briefly bemused by the choice, finding the latter the more alluring. But sensibility prevailed, and with unexpected disappointment, she chose the dango.
Kakashi's masked lips smoothed over her knuckles again, eyes on her lips as her tongue slide sensually over them. He fed her the rest just to watch. The box finally empty, he returned his attention to her hand, this time turning it to kiss the palm.
As he did, she shivered. Casually, he reached over, hand brushing back a strand of hair before sliding lightly to rest on the side of her face. Her free hand rose to cover it. His thumb stroked her cheek as he kissed her palm. He was vaguely conscious of tightness in his crotch, but the bulk of his attention was on her.
Instinctively, she echoed him, turning her face to brush lips against palm. Her breath sped, the tension below turning to an aching need. Her entire world was comprised of Kakashi, his voice, his touch, his eyes, the sheer uncompromising maleness of him. He was the only thing existing in her awareness.
He moved forward on his log, trying to get closer, his legs shifting under the 'table'. One of them slid against hers, the unexpected contact bringing shocking results.
She gasped loudly into his palm, her vision blurring and her back arching as the ache below exploded into internal tremors. When her sight returned, she found she was breathless, shaking. Her face flamed as she became aware of how damp she was between her legs.
"Sakura," the concern in Kakashi's voice made her stiffen. She didn't dare look at him. She noticed she was tightly gripping his hand and quickly released it. She tried to reclaim her other hand, but he tightened his hold, foiling her urge to escape.
"It's alright, you're alright," he assured her with gentle firmness, "You're going to be fine. We just took it too far. You have nothing to be ashamed of. Everything will be fine."
He waited for her breathing to ease, her trembling to stop. She peeked up at him; he smiled reassuringly, encouraging her. When she could meet his eyes, he gave her hand a final squeeze before releasing it, turning away briefly to don gloves and pull down his forehead protector. They sat quietly together, in the growing gloom of dusk, until the tension between them eased into companionable silence. Finally, she mustered the courage to break it.
"Well," she said feebly, feeling silly, "That was embarrassing."
"I found it enlightening," Kakashi's eye crinkled kindly.
"I'll bet you did," she glared at him, "It probably reminded you of your favourite Icha Icha porn scene."
"There were similarities," he conceded cheerfully, "Which you'd already know, being a new convert to the joys of the series yourself."
She glanced irritably at him, before downing her cold tea. Peering into the empty cup, she sighed, "We should get back to camp. I'm last on watch, so I've got to get some sleep."
"Yes," he agreed, lifting his own cup and the empty box from the 'table' as he stood. She joined him, carrying her own, looking back over her shoulder as they started to leave.
"So much for Chez Kakashi, closed down after only one customer," she remarked, grinning at him, "So much for your career as a restaurateur, Kakashi Sensei."
"My successful career, Sakura," he corrected her, eye twinkled merrily at her, "You're overlooking the one important detail that makes it a crowning achievement!"
"And what's that?" her look was perplexed.
"I may've had only one customer," he informed her, grinning, "But her review was spectacular!"
As she gasped, raising her fist, he wisely took off running…
Iruka finally reached home, with a bag of take out. Now he just had to finish his marking and packing, then he'd be free to head to bed. In the morning, he needed to meet the kids at the Academy. No doubt checking all their gear and the last minute lectures were going to take him most of the morning. He hoped to get them to the gate to meet Ino around noon. The next two days were going to be chaotic, so he'd need to keep his eye on them, making sure they abided by the rules he'd set.
After all they were only kids. When they were excited, things were bound to get out of control…
Sakura lay quietly reviewing her evening. She wryly remembered, just days ago, her surprise hearing Tenten found Kakashi sexy. She'd thought she'd known him, admiring and loving him, as a teacher, friend, and comrade, accepting both virtues and faults. Now she realised, his maleness had escaped all but her periphery awareness. She'd never truly seen him as a man, with needs and desires, who could be needed and desired in turn. After tonight, she knew she'd never forget.
When she'd accepted his help to win Ino's challenge, she'd never foreseen this result. It'd sounded so simple, just playacting. It wasn't simple anymore. She had to give credit where due, Kakashi was an incredible actor. She'd never known she'd respond to him like that.
She turned in her blankets, seeking sleep, trying to ignore the wistful whisper inside that wished it'd been real…
A/N: So did you like it? Please review :D
