-Tayuya-
"Keys? What are they for?" Sakura asked, reaching for the envelope to check for a note.
"I don't know..." I whispered, lifting them in front of my eyes as they spun on the slim silver chain. As I watched them spin, I continued to wonder what they could possibly be for. I thought she said only money was in the envelop.
Sakura plucked the forgotten envelop from my lap, opening it up wide to see what else was inside.
"Hey Tay, there's a note in here as well. Did you want to read it?" She asked, holding the folded paper between her fingertips.
"Go ahead." I replied, still curious about what the keys could be for. I don't own anything that uses a key, my bike used to, but being at the bottom of a fucking river... I don't think it's going anywhere.
"Alright..." Tentatively, she opened the note and took a deep breath, scanning the first few lines silently.
"Tayuya. First, I would like to say I still think you're an idiot for leaving; however we both know you don't give a rat's ass what I think."
"No shit sherlock." I muttered, Sakura paused and looked at me curiously "What?"
"So you ran away?" She asked.
"Well, sorta. Keep reading pinkie before I take that thing away and beat you senseless!" I grunted, annoyed and embarrassed. I guess I never did tell her what exactly happened, what do I say? Um, my mommy bad mouthed you and it pissed me off so much I left?
Oh! But Tay, why would that upset you so much! Wait, does this mean you have feelings for me?
Oh Saku, I wanted so badly to tell you but the evil barbie kept threatening me with her ken doll!
Everything will be okay now! We shall vanquish that evil bitch with our light sabers, I can see now that she was brain washing me all along!
Right, that's whats going to happen. No, more like once again obvious is placed on a plate in front of her and it will just whoosh over her head... AGAIN. Oh great, she's looking at me weird; I would question her ability to read minds, if she didn't act so fucking blonde.
"What!" I growled, cursing myself for the blush heating up my cheeks.
"Nothing, just this next part. 'To continue on with that, I have told you a hundred times since you bought that stupid contraption you call a motorcycle; to get rid of it. Being the lovely daughter that you are, you decided to run it off the end of a dock, with an old man attached to it. The police ended up fishing the old thing out of the river while looking for the body, it was returned to me since they could not locate you.
"Of course, I simply had to get the ugly eye sore out of our lane way. I didn't think it could get any worse than it already was, but apparently sitting under water and being driven over a twenty foot drop proved me wrong! Long story short, some idiot bike collector insisted on buying it instead of having it thrown out. As part of the deal your brother so kindly decided to intervene himself into; you have a new toy.
"Please pick it up in the next twenty-four hours, as I am getting tired of having one of those death machines under my name after two years of trying to get rid of one!"
Sakura stopped reading, I blinked, thinking over what I had heard carefully. Wait, I have a new baby? Why would a collector want my bike? There wasn't much that made it special, well apart from being mine. Maybe it's just some dude who knows how fucking awesome I am.
"Well the bitch coulda told me while I was there to pick it the fuck up, instead of having me walk all the way here... and now all the way back." How am I going to afford insurance? Gas as well! That shit isn't cheap, I would hate to have to sell it because I can't afford to keep it. It's not like I have a 'be a good daughter' allowance anymore.
I remember when she originally explained the idea to me. In return for my agreeing to not embarrass her in public, I got a monthly allowance that was more than generous. It started shortly after Gaara and I were old enough to come to the functions our parents attended. That was a really good fucking night!
Luckily I still have some put away, not a lot though. It should be enough for a month or two of expenses before I'm able to get a job.
Sakura remained silent, lost in her own thoughts. I poked her in the ribs, smiling broadly.
"Oi, what's behind door number two, Pinkie? Tell me, before you zone out to wherever the fuck you geniuses go!"
"I am not-" she started to protest, seriously why would you protest to a compliment. It's like girls who argue that they are not hot, when they clearly are! Just tell the dude you want them to repeat it and stroke your ego more.
"Yeah, yeah; just tell me what the second key is for." I yawned, leaning back to rest my head on her shoulder. My eyes were drawn to the paper as I read over the words that Sakura had already read, I barely caught her blush and shift uncomfortably.
Raising an eyebrow, I debated questioning her about it. Since when does Sakura care if I invade her personal space? I'm barely even touching her...
"U-um, right. Uh let's see..." She's stuttering? What the fuck is wrong with her today? Now I have to know.
"Why the fuck are you stuttering? Do I smell bad or something?" I relaxed a bit, leaving more of my weight resting against her.
"I didn't stutter!" She huffed, eyes running over the tiny handwriting on the page. Rolling my eyes, I left it at that and waited for her to continue. Maybe she's just really out of it after her fight with Ino. You know, for someone who swears up and down that she's pinkie's soul mate and fiance 'n shit. They sure don't get along well, like at all. I don't think they've had one good day together. The only times they even seem to do anything is when I set it up.
"Okay, here we are. 'Also, your father has decided to give you full control and access to the trust fund we set up for you. It was supposed to be handed over when you turned eighteen, but you never were patient, were you? All the information you need is inside the envelope, I signed the papers this morning.
"There is enough in there to get you through college, assuming you decide not to be a complete waste of space and spend it all on drugs and prostitutes. There is one condition however." Always is, I thought bitterly. "Even though you no longer live with us, you are still my daughter. As such, you have certain ties and information I would rather not be made public. So long as you keep your usually filthy mouth shut, we will have no quarrel and everything will go smoothly.
"Hope you don't die in a ditch, or at least if you do; on that stupid bike you insist on having. Yours truly, Mom."
"Is that it?" I asked, looking inside the envelop for promised papers. "She gives me a motorcycle, hush money and a second key which I don't know what the fuck it's for?"
"I can see why you left." Sakura replied quietly, a sad smile as she tried to cheer me up.
"Yeah well... yeah. Seriously though, that's it? We have no idea what the second key is for?"
"Well, maybe it's a house key? She may be kinda... judgemental-" I scoffed at her choice of words, she returned the look with a shrug causing me to shift closer to her. "B-but" again with the stutter, what is going through your head pinkie? "She's still your mom, and I'm sure she loves you... no matter how different her way of showing it may be."
"Right, and Satan comes out of hell to save baby bunnies from hungry coyotes and paint rainbows across the world!"
"Tay..." Sakura tried, disapproval evident in her tone of voice.
"It doesn't matter, lets just drop it. Have you eaten dinner?"
-Sakura-
The next day started in a blur, Tayuya has somehow managed to go from not being able to turn off my alarm to reprogramming it. So instead of waking up at five thirty, my faithful Brian alarm clock started to bark at seven thirty. Which only leaves half an hour till first period starts.
After a lot of bumping into each other, skipped teeth brushing and cursing at the broken elevator we finally burst through the front doors of our high school. Only to be greeted by a hungry, and curious student body.
Today is going to be good...
It was only thanks to Tay and her new found 'club' that I managed to get into my first class in one piece. For being the most hated student in school, today I also seem to be the most popular. I'm dreading all the missed assignments, I'm hoping if I grovel on the ground and promise to get it done before the end of the week that my teachers might show me lenience.
As the bell sounded, letting all the eager and still yawning students out into the freedom of the halls for a brief ten minutes. I slowly trudged up to Asuma, rehearsing my speech one last time.
"Oh Sakura, it's good to see you back at school."
"Yeah, um..."
"Don't worry, I got everything you sent me. You are curious about that last assignment right? I just e-mailed you your grade, but if you are willing to be patient I'm sure I can find it for you." Wait, what? E-mail me what? But I didn't...
"Here it is, ninety-seven. Always the top of the class aren't you? Oh, have you seen Ino? She wasn't here today." Ino? Oh... right, she is in this class. I was so focused on what I was going to say I didn't even think about her. Besides that, who in the world did my work for me and how did they send it from my e-mail? No one has access to that, this doesn't make any sense.
"Sakura, you're going to be late for your next class if you don't leave now." Asuma glanced up at me from his papers, I smiled nervously and left for English.
The next class was the same thing, when I went up to ask Jiraiya about my homework he handed me back already graded assignments. Lunch was quiet, Tayuya was busy fighting off the student body while acting like a rabid dog. I sat quietly, munching on a sandwich from the cafeteria.
"Hey, Tay?"
"What, Pinkie?" She replied, glaring at a student who had drifted to close for her protective nature. Tayuya has been freaking out since we were practically mobbed at the front door. "Oi! You!" She stood up, yelling at a retreating back. "I swear he had a camera." She grumbled, sitting back down. I watched silently as she tried to pick up a fry smothered in gravy and cheese with her left hand; struggling to break it free without dragging half of the box with her.
"For fucks sake..." She growled, taking a fork and putting it in her mouth. Tay tried to stab the cheese to break it off while tugging at it with her good hand. "I swear to fucking god!" She cursed, teeth clenched on the plastic.
She looks absolutely ridiculous, and so typically Tayuya... I should help, but... she is rather adorable. Wait, I did not just think that. What is with me lately? First, that... dream. Which was weird and inappropriate.
...and now she's trying to use a fork and a knife at the same time, with her mouth. Rolling my eyes, I tried to get her attention.
"You could just ask for help? Unless you think you can eat that fry with the fork and knife still in your mouth." Grunting in reply, she spat out the plastic utensils and tried again.
"Then what do you suggest?" She asked, licking the gravy off her fingers.
"I could help you...?" It is kinda my fault your arm is broken. Gaping at me, Tay didn't reply at first before getting a coy grin.
"Wouldn't Ino disapprove, y'know... you feeding a girl other than herself?"
"Why? You need help don't you?" Probably should of thought about getting something easier to eat, instead of smothered in stringy cheese.
Tay started to laugh, shaking her head back and forth. I frowned, feeling like once again I'm missing something. Is offering to help really that big of a deal? It's not, is it? Without a word, I reached over and snatched the box of fries away from the giggling red head.
"Oi, gimme that!" she protested, watching for what I was planning on doing.
"This would be a lot easier if you didn't slobber all over the fork and knife." I grumbled, fishing a fry out of the lake of gravy; I broke it off and presented it to Tay. "Here, eat." Looking at me curiously, she hesitated; fingers twitching. "What?" I demanded, annoyed. I really must be missing something.
Sighing she took the fry from my hand and stuffed it in her mouth, suddenly turning very sour.
"Hello, Barbie." She grumbled, motioning at me for another fry.
Grabbing another, I handed it to her, turning to watch Ino sit down beside me. I wonder where she was.
"Hello, Harpie." Ino smiled, turning to look at what I was doing. "I wasn't expecting to see you two today. Um..." Her voice grew quiet, leaning in to whisper, "are you okay?"
"I'm fine-" I stopped to get another fry for Tayuya, rolling my eyes as she cleared her throat. Ino raised her eyebrows but said nothing. "Why weren't you here this morning?" What I should be saying is; I'm sorry. Not sure if I should bring it up in front of Tay though, I don't think either of them would really appreciate that.
"I slept in on accident... I was up late last night trying to finish some work I had forgotten." She replied, suddenly nervous. Oh! Work, that reminds me! Quickly, I broke off two more fries and absently handed them to Tay, who barely missed biting my fingers.
"That reminds me, Ino; do you know anything about someone doing my homework for me and hacking my email?" Tayuya gagged on her fry, laughing. She started to pound on her chest with her cast, did I ask something funny?
"You probably fucking did it with your alter ego!" She laughed, drawing the attention from surrounding tables. "Why are you so paranoid? What makes you think someone fucking hacked your email and did your homework while you were gone? No one likes you THAT much, not even Barbie! Besides, she's too fucking blonde to complete most of your work anyways." Tayuya scoffed, pointing at the fries and then her mouth.
Ino pouted beside me, sticking out her bottom lip but otherwise staying silent.
"I am not paranoid!" I insisted, Tayuya ignored me and continued to point at her mouth. "I am not going to feed you! Stop it!"
"You didn't have a problem with it a second ago!"
"I was handing you the fries since it's my fault your arm is broken!" I retorted "I got sick of watching you struggle with such a menial task."
"Pssh yeah okay, you're just denying it now that your girlfriend is here." Tayuya grumbled, rolling her eyes and resting her chin on her palm. "Are you going to feed me or not?"
"Not!"
Tayuya snatched the cardboard box of fries away from me and sat quietly, more slurping the gooey mess than picking up individual and eating like a human being. Ino shifted uncomfortably beside me, gnawing on her bottom lip obviously debating on something to say. She's probably still mad at me, it's not like it would really be undeserved. I was a massive bitch to her, all over one little thing.
Before I could work up the nerve to start another conversation, the lunch bell rang, signalling the return to classes. The afternoon was uneventful, I had to tiptoe around Naruto who has made me his new target for whatever reason. I'm pretty sure he's just obsessed with Ino, the same as every other straight male or lesbian in school. Kiba seemed to be the only boy in chemistry today that didn't have five hundred questions, instead staring off into the clouds; his thoughts far away from the present.
As classes ended I rushed to a student council meeting I was informed of last minute. Apparently I was actually missed, well I would like to think that except the real reason is because homecoming is next week. I've missed the majority of the planning, and they need me to finalize a lot of the plans.
Sometimes it really does help being a teachers pet I suppose.
Kakashi stopped me in the hallway while on my way to talk to Madara about a couple idea's the other council members came up with.
"Ms. Haruno, how are you? Did you get eaten by a locker this past week?" Casually, he leaned against his cart and tilted his book down.
"Nope, the lockers haven't claimed me in a while." I smiled, stopping mid stride.
"Oh? Who do I have to thank for that?" His eyes crinkled, bemused. He already knows the answer.
"Well, you could thank Temari or one of my other regulars. Or you could thank those rabid cats I requested." I teased, rolling my eyes.
"I think instead I will thank Ms. Paiturn instead." (1) Kakashi smiled and waved before strolling down the hallway, whistling happily.
After a quick visit with Madara, who asked too many questions for his own good; I jogged back to the student council meeting. After an argument filled, grudge match of a meeting, it was finally over and I was free to head home.
"Hey." Tayuya greeted, sitting on the floor in the living room. We still haven't gotten anything to replace the couch.
"Hi." I replied, flopping onto the floor beside her.
"Dinner?"
"That would be nice"
"'kay" She smiled, pushing herself up and stepping over me. Somehow she was able to make a dinner out of the nothing in my kitchen. After an unusual meal, and a few laughs shared over a cartoon meant for children a third our age we fell asleep. It was a quiet, peaceful and enjoyable evening; a pleasure I haven't been able to enjoy in a very long time.
The next day was even more confusing, I could have sworn that I had set my alarm to five thirty; however once again somehow Tayuya had it set back to seven thirty. So after another panic attack morning, and bursting into school at the last minute.
For the first time, I felt lost at school, after a week of no school work and classes continuing without me; it was like my teachers were speaking a different language. I couldn't ask for help, or tell them that I in fact, did not do my homework. Who would believe that? It's worse than 'my dog ate it.'
Lunch was uneventful, Tayuya and Ino argued subtly the whole time. Jabbing each other with insults I didn't quiet understand the meaning to, banana ice cream? Whatever it means, it pissed off Tay. A few times, student council members worked up the nerve to approach me while my guard dog was waving her cast around as a club. Either that, or they are simply too stressed about the impending dance to care.
The afternoon followed the same confusing pattern as the morning, class ending far too early for my liking... which is a first.
Surprisingly, Tenten found me after fourth period. Arms crossed and a bitter look scrunching up her forehead. After a quick jumble of words were muttered I was dragged off to volleyball practise and reminded of an impending game, just what I need. Why did I sign up for so much again? Oh right, because before I had to no life. Besides... categorizing the insides of lockers by smell.
No sooner had practise ended was I dragged off to help with more preparations for the dance, apparently they are a big deal. I wouldn't know, seeing as I have never gone to one before, I feel like this is something I should tell people when they ask for my opinion on decorations or other aspects. That may break whatever spell is on the student body that has me -thankfully- locker, and beating free.
So ended my week; the weekend was equally boring. I spent the entire time locked up in my room bent over text books while Tayuya screamed at the TV in the other room. Apparently a new game came out, one with lots of guns, blood and swearing. It doesn't need to be said that she is loving it.
The rest of the following week followed the same pattern, Tayuya changing my alarm at a new time everyday. I swear she gets up at three am just so she doesn't have to at five. Classes got steadily easier as practises and student council duties became more and more stressful. I will love when this is all over.
Today is homecoming, finally. The entire student body is dressed up in our school colours of forest green and yellow, an ugly mix in my opinion. Spray painted shirts, war painted faces and home made jewelry as well as signs tacked up along the hallways. (2)
All of the students who volunteered to help with preparations were given the afternoon off from classes. So, after checking in on the two treasurer's conducting the ticket sales; and checking in with Madara. I made my way to the gymnasium to see how the decorations are coming along.
I scanned the crowd, looking over the walls, set up tables and stage. Mentally going over my list, I checked with the DJ, followed by the streamers; checking to make sure the ladders were all being watched and held.
"Sakura!" I turned to see who was calling my name, spotting Tayuya pushing past a frightened student.
"What are you doing here? I thought you weren't planning on coming to the dance?" I asked, curious. She had told me the other night that dances weren't her thing. Frankly, it surprised me. I would think that it would be exactly her 'thing.'
"Um, free afternoon off classes? Duh?"
"I should of known, well why don't you see if you can help um..." I looked around for a spot to put her. I really shouldn't be the one organizing this thing. "Uh... something that looks like it needs it."
Tayuya rolled her eyes and sighed.
"Yeah, I'll do that. Thanks chief!" Blushing, I tried to ignore her sarcasm, I'm not that bad am I?
I left Tayuya, who ended up just yelling orders and calling most of the volunteers idiots for the afternoon. As class was let out the student body migrated to the football field, to watch the football game. Six-thirty rolled around and we were ready, the gym looking fantastic.
Unfortunately. I don't have time to change or go home; so my green t-shirt and jeans will just have to do. Ino showed up right on time, happily talking to everyone she came across. In the short time she's been here, she's managed to become incredibly popular.
I smiled, shaking my head. Well, she always was the social butterfly. A stark contrast to my social inadequacy. I greeted students as they arrived at the door, checking tickets and stamping hands. I tried to ignore the glances my bubbly blonde friend kept shooting me, as if to check to see if I were free yet.
Staying at the door and taking tickets is the best place for me. I've never been to a dance, nor do I know how to. It would be a complete disaster if I left the sanctity of my post; here, I am safe.
After an hour or two, Ino finally grew impatient and walked up to my table when there were no other students arriving.
"Are you just going to sit here all night?" She grinned, plopping down on the chair beside me which had been vacated a while ago.
"That was the plan." I answered truthfully.
"Awww, com'on! Don't be like that, don't you want to dance?" She pouted, giving me her best kicked puppy look.
"I uh..." the words came out a whisper, I hid behind a veil of hair; trying to hide the blush creeping onto my cheeks. Well, this is embarrassing. "I don't know how to dance."
"Is that all? I don't think anyone here really knows how to dance. You just, do it." She replied confidently, raising her hand to brush my bangs back with her fingers. She smiled, tucking the pink locks behind my ear. "Much better."
"I'd probably fall, or trip on a wire and break a stereo or something." I protested weakly, lacing my fingers on my lap to keep them from drumming nervously.
"What if I took the lead? Then you wouldn't have to do anything but follow me." She coaxed, letting her fingers fall. Ino smiled again, blue eyes twinkling as she worked her charm. I looked over my shoulder, watching the swaying mass of students; a gulp forcing its way down my throat.
"How about the next one?"
"The next song?" Ino asked, hopeful.
"Uh, no... the next dance." Or never, never is good to. You don't have to dance to get on with life, it's just something you can choose to do.
"Oh... well, as long as you promise." Ino tentatively agreed, looking crestfallen. "I can still keep you company though, right?"
"Of course!" I instantly agreed, willing to give her at least this.
We watched our fellow students dance for the rest of the night, Ino whispered comments as we laughed at jokes no one else would hear.
"Isn't that..." the corner of Ino's painted lips upturned, a suspicious glitter in her eyes.
"Hinata." I finished, watching as she appeared to stutter while talking to her company. Kiba stood in front of her, a loose suit clinging to his lanky body. He smiled, asking an unheard question before offering his hand. Hinata looked ready to pass out before he steadied her, blushing and clearing his throat.
"Well, will you look at that." Ino smiled.
"The football star and the lamb, well he has looked rather distracted the last few days."
"I wonder if he is the one Hinata has hinted at." Ino added, sitting back into her chair. Hinata has been hinting at someone? Where was I when this happened? Ino looked at me quizzically, confused by my sudden silence.
"Don't tell me you missed everything she's said?"
"Um..."
"Oh Saku, sometimes you really can be clueless." Laughing lightly, Ino turned back to the crowd just in time to see Kiba shakily place his hands on Hinata's hips; averting his gaze and looking as if an apple were stuck in his throat.
"I wonder where Tenten is in all of this..." My blonde friend breathed, soft blue eyes watching the crowd as I watched her. She really is gorgeous... but I guess I'm not the only one in school who shares those sentiments. "Oh, now that... that IS interesting. Saku look at that!"
"Huh?" I replied, snapping out of my thoughts to try and figure out what she was motioning at. My eyes caught Temari, arm outstretched and palm placed above the shoulder of Tenten.
"Temari...? What is she doing to Tenten?" I started to get up, no way am I going to let her start a fight in the middle of this. It was going so well.
Ino instantly grabbed my arm, pulling me back down into my seat.
"Will you shut up and watch!" she hissed.
"But..." I looked nervously back at the mystery pair.
"Shh!" Ino leaned closer to the dance floor, eyes twinkling as she watched Temari and Tenten intently. I must be missing something, might as well just watch.
Temari leaned in closer to Tenten and said something I couldn't hear over the pounding music. "Just watch..." I was vaguely aware of Ino's lips barely inches from my ear as she whispered. My eyes locked on the scene unfolding before me.
There's no way, Tenten is a massive homophobe and Temari is... Temari. She was always boy crazy, always the first one to make a crude joke or comment on the size of her latest catches size. It's just the way she is.
So why then is Temari running her fingers over Tenten's cheek, and why is Tenten not protesting. Temari whispered something into Tenten's ear, who blushed and nodded before they disappeared out the exit and from our line of site.
"What was that...?" There's no possible way I could of missed something that huge, I mean you would have to be a complete idiot right?
"I knew it!" Ino exclaimed, suddenly giddy as she clapped her hands. "Oh, I wonder who else I can spot!"
"Wait, wait, wait! You 'knew' it?" How can you possibly see them as a pair, I mean... even friends is pretty far fetched.
"Well yeah, Temari has been after her since she stopped by a volleyball practise looking for you. Tenten confronted her and they got into an argument. Since then, the rumour around school has been Temari has been after her."
"You're serious..."
"Of course, you had to have gotten that vibe from Tenten!"
"No...?" What vibe? The one where she practically ripped off my face in the locker room?
"Oh Saku, whatever will I do with you?" Ino smiled and nudged my ribs, turning to once again observe the dance. What have I missed this past week?
The dance ended shortly after, with an announcement from the DJ I took the stage to tell everyone to go home. Which was met with a couple expected boo's, however surprisingly; also a few cheers and compliments on the dance.
As people filed out of the dance, talking and laughing with their friends it didn't surprise me that the amount of volunteers from earlier had greatly dwindled down to just myself. Well, I wasn't expecting much help cleaning up... one person would have been nice though.
Sighing, I looked around; well, first things first. I need a garbage bag, or twenty. Slowly I wandered down the main hallway, looking for the janitors closet. Hands stuffed in my pockets, I whistled quietly to myself.
The school looks much different at night, almost like a completely different place. Fishing the keys out of my pocket, I opened the janitors closet and found a box of big black bags. Tucking them under my arm, I grabbed a mop and a bucket before heading back to the gym.
"Oi!" A voice echoed after me. Surprised, I jumped and nearly dropped everything I was carrying.
"Oh, Tay. What are you doing here?" I asked when I realized who it was.
"The dance is over right?" She smirked, taking the bucket and mop from me and continuing down the hallway.
"Right? So did you just come to walk home with me? You will have to wait a bit, I need to clean up." She laughed, poking the ceiling with the mop head.
"And how many people stayed to help you?"
"Well, no one."
"Exactly, so I came to fucking help!" Surprised for the second time, I stopped to think about what she was saying.
"But how did you..."
"How did I know you would need help? Oh please pinkie, everyone signs up to set up the dance so they can get the afternoon off. No one fucking thinks about the clean up! That's why I didn't do much this afternoon, I was going to earn my time off by helping clean up." No one told the volunteers they had to help clean up, actually... I don't think anyone even mentioned it. I will have to make sure there's a clean up crew after the next dance.
"You know Tay..." I smiled, "you amaze me." She turned the corner to the gym. My attention was suddenly drawn back to the dance, music was playing. "I thought the DJ went home."
"Probably just some drunks." Tay muttered
"Oh fuck!" I cursed, earning a raised eyebrow from Tayuya who grinned knowingly. "Shut up, if they break anything the school has to reimburse the cost. That's my ass on the line!" Sprinting, I took off down the hallway and burst into the gym; looking around for the culprits. There was only one lone figure standing behind the DJ's podium, blonde hair and a large smile greeted me.
"Ino? What are you doing?" I called, striding over the floor. I pushed aside cups and fallen streamers. Tay entered and leaned against the door frame unnoticed.
"You promised me a dance, I was just finding a song."
"Uh," I blushed, suddenly feeling cornered, "I promised you I would dance at the next dance."
"Right, homecoming is officially over as of five minutes ago right?" She smiled, great... somehow I don't think I'm winning this argument. When I didn't answer she continued, "so technically this is the next dance."
I hesitated, nervous and embarrassed. I really don't know how to dance...
"Please." She coaxed quietly. I looked up, instantly my resistance melted when I saw the yearning in her eyes.
Nodding my reply, Ino practically squealed for joy. Quickly she pressed play on a song I wasn't able to see and took my hand, leading me out onto the dance floor as the slow country music started to play.
Feeling awkward and shy, I half raised my hands while trying to figure out what to do. Ino giggled as the introduction started to play out.
"Relax." She whispered, wrapping her arms around my hips and nudging mine around her neck. Nodding meekly, I let my arms hang loose around her neck as she pulled me in closer. A female vocalist started to sing to the melody.
I can feel the magic floating in the air;
Being with you gets me that way;
I watch the sunlight dance across your face and I've
Never been this swept away
I relaxed, allowing my body to loosen up and sway as she guided my movements. Ino moved slowly, her hands and arms giving me a slight nudge in the direction we were headed. I smiled, stumbling suddenly in an attempt to stop myself from stepping on her foot. Ino laughed, full of happiness as she kissed my forehead which only increased my blush.
All my thoughts just seem to settle on the breeze
When I'm lying wrapped up in your arms
The whole world just fades away
The only thing I hear
Is the beating of your heart
"Relax." She breathed against my skin, sending a shiver down my spine. "Just let the music guide you." Ino closed her eyes, taking a steadying breathe I followed her example. I'm not sure if it's Ino or the music making me this giddy, but she's right. I need to relax.
'Cause I can feel you breathe
It's washing over me
Suddenly I'm melting into you
There's nothing left to prove
Baby all we need is just to be
Caught up in the touch
The slow and steady rush
Baby, isn't that the way that love's supposed to be
I can feel you breathe
Just breathe
In a way I know my heart is waking up
As all the walls come tumbling down
I'm closer than I've ever felt before
And I know
And you know
There's no need for words right now
'Cause I can feel you breathe
It's washing over me
Suddenly I'm melting into you
There's nothing left to prove
Baby all we need is just to be
Caught up in the touch
The slow and steady rush
Baby, isn't that the way that love's supposed to be
I can feel you breathe
Just breathe
Caught up in the touch
The slow and steady rush
Baby, isn't that the way that love's supposed to be
I can feel you breathe
Just breathe
I can feel the magic floating in the air
Being with you gets me that way (3)
The song came to a slow end, I realized that Ino had stopped moving almost completely; we were just swaying slightly together. I took my head out of the crook of her neck, breathing in deeply. Without thinking about it, I kissed her. Ino returned my affection gently, leaving the kiss soft and short before she pulled away. It wasn't a needy, or passionate gesture. Simply a gesture of affection and feeling.
I smiled, snuggling back into her neck; thoroughly content. For once, everything seems so simple. Until I heard a crash at the doorway and jumped. The first thing I noticed was the knowing frown, and knit forehead Ino was wearing. The second thing I noticed was the mop and bucket on the floor by the gymnasium doorway where Tayuya had been standing.
-Tayuya-
Storming out of the school, I slammed my clenched fists against my thighs once again. Desperately trying to understand, and keep in the amount of hurt I was feeling. That shouldn't of been a surprise! I knew this was going to happen, I was the one who set them up continuously, I'm the one who kept trying to play fucking cupid!
I am so fucking stupid, now what is she going to think that I just took off! Didn't you fucking come here to help her! I slammed the outside door open, stepping into the cold, refreshing night air. Tentatively, I reached up to feel the warm, wet tracks running down over my cheeks. Shaking, I raised my fingers in front of my eyes so I could see the moisture on them.
God, fucking, dammit! Why does she make me react this way! It was just... I always expected Ino would be the one to... to make the first move. I always thought Sakura was the one being pursued, not the other way around.
It seemed so natural for her though, when she just... she didn't even... it just, it just happened.
Growling, I ripped at my hair with frustration. The sound of footsteps sounded from behind the closed door, I quickly dashed out of the line of site and into a nook that was shielded from the moons rays.
Desperate, I held my breath; chest rising and falling heavily as I fought not to hyperventilate. Sakura opened the door and looked around, closing my eyes I prayed she wouldn't see me.
"Tayuya? Are you there?" She called, her trademark confused look mixed with worry. A silent tear ran down over stained trails. "Tay...?" Please... just, go the fuck away.
After a few more minutes she gave up and went back inside.
No sooner had the doors clanged shut had I broken down, back sliding down the wall as the rough stone ripped at my shirt.
-Sakura-
I wonder where Tay went, she just took off. Maybe she wanted to give us some privacy? I can't really think of another reason she would just take off. She didn't have to leave, if it was that awkward for her... well I mean the song was done. After all that effort she went through to help me clean up, I guess once again I should of been more considerate.
Ino and I cleaned up the majority of the mess silently, by some unspoken rule neither of us mentioned Tayuya or the dance. Shortly after two in the morning, I was finally able to trudge my way home after making sure Ino went into her apartment complex safely.
Yawning like a sleep deprived cat, I fumbled with the locks while trying to be quiet. Waking up Tayuya wouldn't help her mood at all I'm sure.
Taking a peek inside, I barely caught Tay leaving my room and going into the living room to sit on the floor. I guess she's still mad at me.
Without a word, and with her gaze turned away so I couldn't see her face Tayuya completely ignored me. Ouch, I guess I would be mad too but still... a hello, glad you made it home alright would be nice.
Silently I walked past her, going into my room and quickly pulling on pyjama's consisting of loose sweats and another tank top. Lying down felt good after a long and stressful week. I looked at the doorway and wondered if Tay was going to sleep in the living room. I can't let her do that, the floor is hardly comfortable...
It just doesn't make sense to me, nothing does. Nothing she does, or says... it's like I'm missing some sort of fundamental piece of the puzzle. I know what the picture should be of, but I can't see any of the details... I don't know how it ends up. Ino knows, I'm sure of it.
What did Tayuya say the other day, it seemed so out of place but yet I know there was something there I missed. Earlier, Ino said I miss everything. Maybe she's right, what if there's some massive clue I just can't seem to grasp.
Silently, I mulled over everything I could remember. From my first meeting with Tay in the library, to our fight. I worked over our new friendship, the multiple times she has protected me... I paused thinking about Anko. I remembered our fight before my date with Ino, I know there's something there I should be seeing. Ino hinted as much at that at the coffee shop.
Sighing, I looked over at the empty space beside me. Three weeks ago it wouldn't of felt weird, even a week ago Tay wasn't here all the time. But now... I miss her.
Why has everything suddenly gotten so much more complicated. Just this past week I had to set up a meeting with someone at the bank so I can get temporary access to Anko's bank account. I'm not sure if it's possible or not, Tsunade said it was worth a try. But... if I'm not able to I will have to drop the student council and volleyball. That's the only way I'll be able to get a part time job again, I lost the weekend job at the book store while I was at the hospital.
Tayuya suggested turning off the cable, which truth be told I'm not sure why we even have. Except for that one night of cartoons, I can't remember the last time I actually watched anything. She also offered to pay most of the bills as well as, buy food until Anko is alright, seeing as she received that massive lump of money from her mother. I can't let her do that though, it wouldn't be right.
I'll find a way, I have to.
Sighing, I traced the patterns on the fabric below me. Maybe I should just go and apologize, even if she made it obvious that she has no interest in talking to me right now. Sleeping on the floor can't be comfortable, and I doubt she would venture into Anko's room. No, she definitely wouldn't. I haven't even been in there yet.
I wonder what Ino would think about all of this, Tay has mentioned a few times that she might not approve of some of the things we do. Ino hasn't said anything to me about it though, if she was mad she would say something right? Or maybe I just missed that too.
Ino, I frowned rolling onto my back to stare at the ceiling. She seems to be the center of my confusion. How do I even feel about her...? Well, we get along I guess. I don't spend much time with her though, and then I also fought with her the last few times we did get together. Well, I yelled and stormed off. She didn't do much as far as fighting.
'I love you...' the words echoed through my thoughts. Intertwining with my inner debate.
But do I love you? I don't know, it's all just so confusing. I guess in a way, I do. I love her as a friend, I'm sure of that at least. 'But you have said the same of Tayuya' my inner added. I scowled, ignoring the comment.
Tayuya... I just don't understand anymore. Why did I have that dream? It makes no sense! Why would I dream of her that way, why there; at the hospital of all places. She would probably think I was completely crazy if I told her about it. No, more like she would gloat her seduction tactics worked. Yeah, that seems much more like Tay.
Resolving myself, I hopped up and stormed out of my room. Surprising Tayuya who was looking out over the balcony.
"Oi! You scared the fucking shit out of me, you little fuck!" She cursed, glaring at me with the moon at her back.
"You!" I said stupidly, pointing at her.
"Right, me...?" She smirked, her red hair disheveled and messy.
"Why are you mad at me?" Tay opened her mouth to reply before I waved my hands in front of myself to stop her. "Never mind, look; I'm sorry. I have no idea what I did, but it seems I don't know much of anything that's going on. Either way, I'm sorry."
We stood, staring at each other until Tayuya started to laugh, amused at my sudden random outburst.
"Oh pinkie, whatever will I do with you." She whispered, turning back to look at the moon. "I was never mad at you." Hearing what she said, I breathed a sighed of relief. Confusion quickly took over, followed by curiosity.
"You weren't?" I confirmed, she shook her head without looking at me.
"But then why did you take off? You didn't have to leave, if we were making you feel uncomfortable..." I started to ramble off the possible reasons I had come up with earlier.
"I did have to." Her reply was even, measured. As if it was being controlled carefully so it came out a certain way. Tay still has her back to me, I took a step closer so I could talk to her face to face.
"Why? We could have used your help, and I would have liked having you there." Tayuya let out a heavy sigh, and I paused my advance. Her shoulders slumped, I waited for her reply; barely aware I was holding my breathe. I took another step, my bare footstep creating a soft thud as it was placed onto the hardwood floor. Another and I stepped over the holster for the glass, sliding door. Another and my toes touched the cold cement of the balcony.
My fingers grazed over the cold, steel railings, the moon filled my vision before I slowly turned to Tayuya; glistening trails ran down her cheeks. My breathe caught with shock as she turned to me, a sad smile forced against the pain in her eyes.
"You just don't get it." She turned fully to look at me, slowly she stepped forward. Her fingers ran over mine before intertwining in a way that felt so natural, and yet, just like every other time we've touched. Her free hand reached up and cupped my cheek as she leaned in, her lips barely a hair from mine as she whispered.
"I love you, stupid little fuck..."
Tayuya Cheral Paiturn, cookies to anyone who remembered that from chapter seven! Or if you're allergic to dairy like I am then uh... you can have a celery stick :X Those are my cookies, sad I kno (kidding). Now who can tell me Anko's last name?
Homecoming... at my highs chool, it was a big deal. Mostly because we were regional champions for high school football and it was the first game of the season. :P Well, that and we got to beat the living stuffing out of the neighbouring high school. Muwhahaha!
Faith Hill – Breathe, if you haven't heard of or looked up the song before hand I suggest you do so soon :)
Yay chapter ten done! So soon after nine was posted too, but hey – getting nine reviews in one day... was hella motivating! Keep em coming! Thanx to everyone who has been following this story since the first chapter, and to all of those who have joined since.
A special thank you to my beta who got back to me in a mere forty eight hours with a commented and corrected chapter! Check out his new story, it's pretty good!
.net/s/6544039/1/Hi_no_Ishi_Ninja_tag_Arc
Happy Holidays, and if you have massive snow storms like I do – drive safe, dress warm!
-Kiravu