All Or Nothing

by Ren Hyuga-Hyogo

Ren Hyogo is a kunoichi of Sunagakure whose life is a lot more complicated than it should be. She has to fight her own inner demons while doing her best to make her dream come true. She befriends Gaara and things get crazier for Ren from there; suddenly all those dreams feel dull in comparison. Rated M for gore and citrus (Complete)

10. Ch 9: Boy or Girl?

Ren Note: Okay heads up guys… This wedding is like a modern USA wedding. I don't know enough about Japanese culture to write a ceremony like that and I'm not even going to bother pretending that I do. I got help from a website that I can't figure out how to share. :( Actually most of the stuff said there is a copy and paste. I hate doing that but I'm really no good at vows and ceremonies. :( Forgive me? Also… If anyone knows anything about Japanese wedding ceremonies and would like to teach me, I would be forever in your debt. I'm planning on Sasuke and Hinata's wedding being a traditional Japanese wedding (whatever that means… I'm not sure how to word that!) So that would be helpful for one of the next fan fictions I'll be writing. Also I have a big, big favor to ask of you loyal readers… Could you share my story around? I recently deleted my roleplay accounts off Facebook and am worried that some of the people who usually read this story won't know when it's updated. I would greatly appreciate anything done to promote this story. I don't care to have more readers, those of you I already have are more than I could have hoped for and the ones that keep joining into the crowd are heartwarming, but I'd like to keep the ones I have. I'll admit that this update was a rough one. I knew what I wanted to happen (RaRa and I always brainstorm and we do have the plot all worked out) but getting it executed was difficult. I felt like I was rushing myself and the chapter wasn't coming out right. Thank you all for sticking with me. I know that this update is late. I've messaged some of you saying why and now I'll tell everyone else. My real life was thrown upside down (yet again) and it's difficult to find time to write. I hope that you all will understand, I promise this story isn't over, not by a long shot, but I'm not sure when the next update will be. I'd love to be able to promise you Tuesday (2/10/15) but I don't like making promises I can't be sure I'll keep. I would also like to thank Sweet Petit for the request made. It's not in this chapter but will definitely be in the next! Just you wait and see! RaRa have the gears turning in our noggins!

Chapter Nine:

Ren had spent the week preparing for her wedding. She rarely got to see Gaara, which was fine by her since she was nauseous 90% of the time. She couldn't stand the smell of fish, lilacs, or sage. Every time she would get a whiff of them, she'd have to find the nearest trash bin or toilet. Hanabi caught on quickly and actually stopped wearing her lilac perfume, much to Ren's relief.

When she wasn't feeling sick, it didn't feel so 'fine' that she didn't get to see Gaara. She missed him terribly. They had both been free last night but, being the night before their wedding, they couldn't see each other. That had torn Ren up inside. "Ren," Naoma called from outside Ren's room, breaking her out of her thoughts, "Are you ready to head out? We need to get to the salon to get our hair done."

"I'll be right there," Ren called back. She popped a prenatal vitamin in her mouth and finished the water in her glass. She wasn't really ready to spend hours getting her hair done but it would be worth it. She didn't want to sit in the uncomfortable salon chairs while people pulled her hair and painted her face but she knew she needed to do it. This was her wedding day and she was excited. After today she'd be living in the Kazekage mansion with her husband, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, and her mother. Gaara had talked Naoma into moving there after Ren had a breakdown about her mother being alone. The house here would be sold soon. Everything was to be moved out during the reception. Ren looked around the room that had been hers for 20 years and smiled at all the boxes that were staring at her. She had so many memories here, good and bad, but was willing to leave those behind to make new ones. She subconsciously rubbed her flat belly and smiled a little more.

Ren's hair was twisted and curled into an elegant chignon style up-do. She had a white lily crown that rested on top of her raven head. They had given her smoky cat-eye makeup for her eyelids, a light pink blush on her cheeks, and a pink lip stain as makeup. She looked at herself and grinned. She didn't usually think much of herself, and she disliked makeup most the time, but she had to admit she did look lovely, like she was glowing.

Getting into her dress had been a little more of a challenge than anyone had expected. It took Naoma, Temari, and Hanabi to get the dress over her head without messing up her hair and makeup. Ren was so glad she had put the white garter on her left thigh before the dress. There was no way she would be able to slip that on now.

"We really should've put that on you before we went to the salon," Hanabi muttered.

"We didn't want to risk getting it dirty," Naoma said gently.

"Yeah but we almost got her hair and makeup ruined along with the dress," Temari chuckled.

"It's on now so we're good. Will someone please zip me up," Ren asked kindly as she turned her back to the three of them. Temari handled her request in kind.

"Oh wow," Ino said as she closed the door. She was wearing a dress to match Temari and Hanabi. They wore sky blue dresses with a sweetheart bodice. Navy lace covered their chests and extended to their shoulders to make sleeves that reached their wrists. The dress was silky and began to flow out just under their navels, ending just below their knees. "You look, oh wow!"

Ren blushed brighter than the powder on her cheeks and looked in the mirror. The dress was ivory satin with white flower pattern lace covering it. The mandarin collar came up to Ren's jawline, leaving only a V-shaped amount of her throat exposed. Her whole body was covered in lace but the satin bodice had a strapless sweetheart bust line. The lace sleeves hugged Ren's arms and stopped mid-forearm. The dress began to flow out slowly around Ren's hips. Its skirt wasn't 'poofy' but it was loose and tapered down to her feet. There was a train that was only about four feet long and would drag behind her.

Temari helped Ren slip on her white, closed-toe Maryjane heels before Hanabi and Ino worked on making sure the dress was straight and situated. Ren felt like she was a doll being dressed up. She giggled silently at the thought. Naoma clipped the white lace veil to the flower crown on Ren's head. It flowed down her back to Ren's thighs. Temari fastened a simple teardrop shaped sapphire on a silver choker chain around Ren's neck, under the gowns collar. It peaked out through the V-shaped front and stood out against Ren's porcelain skin. It made Ren happy to see how lovely it went with everything.

"Okay something old," Namoa said.

"This," Temari said as she placed a white lace belt with Ren's twin fans tied to it around her hips. It suited the dress perfectly, the belt blended in well with the dress. It felt very fitting.

"Something new," Ino chimed.

"The dress is new," Naoma said softly.

"Something borrowed," Hanabi said with a smirk.

Ren sighed and Temari grabbed her right hand and raised it up. When Temari let go Ren kept her arm in the same position. Temari had told her it would be a surprise and Ren dreaded what she would make her wear. Hopefully it was not that brown beaded bracelet that Temari said she made as an academy student. Temari placed the bracelet she had gotten for her birthday from Shikamaru on Ren's wrist. It was a silver charm bracelet that had a heart charm, a leaf charm, a sand charm, and an infinity symbol. Ren's eyes began to tear up. She knew how much the bracelet meant to Temari and she couldn't believe her best friend was really going to let her wear it. It was the sweetest thing Temari had ever let her wear.

"Don't cry," Ino said quietly.

Naoma grabbed a tissue and patted Ren's eyes dry gently while she took deep breaths.

"Something blue is the sapphire necklace," Ren croaked out, wanting to finish the preparations.

She took another deep breath and smiled at her reflection in the full-length mirror. She was standing with four of the women in her life she absolutely adored. They all looked so lovely. She was starting to feel very nervous about everything though. Could she do this? She wanted to but there would be so many people. All of those eyes would be on her. Would it be like when she was in school? "I can't do this," Ren whispered so quietly that they had almost missed it. She was scared. Scared of the attention, scared of failing, scared of everything.

"It'll be okay, Ren-nee," Hanabi said taking her hand.

"Sweetie you want this," Naoma said as she placed her hands on the sides of Ren's face. Their eyes met and Naoma smiled. "You look so beautiful. You're a strong young woman and I'm proud of you. You've been through so much and are so happy. You belong with Kazekage-sama. You complete each other. I may be old but I'm not blind. I see the way he looks at you and the way you look at him."

"He loves you so much," Temari said from her side. Hanabi's hand gripped hers tighter.

"You can do this. When you get out there it'll be like you two are the only ones in the world," Ino said softly.

Naoma released Ren's face and she nodded. "You're right," She said before taking a deep breath. She took a step towards the door but paused.

"It's time," Naoma whispered as she rubbed Ren's back.

"Ready to knock Gaara's socks off," Ino asked cheerfully.

"She's gonna do more than that," Temari commented with a smug smirk.

Ren nodded and took another deep breath. She was marrying the man she loved and this would be the start of a new beginning. She could do this because she wanted this. When she got there, it would just be the two of them. No one else would matter. She deserved the happiness he would bring her. She could do this.

XXXXXXXX

"I can't do this," Gaara muttered as he stared at himself in the mirror.

Kankuro smacked him on the back of his head. "The hell you can't," He growled.

"Oy, you're marrying the mother of your unborn child. Why the hell are you getting cold feet? You love her right? So what's the problem," Naruto asked with his arms crossed.

"Love is not something to be wasted because of doubts. You love Ren-chan very much and feel at peace with her don't you? The youth of your love is awe inspiring," Lee commented.

Gaara looked at his friends. He forced a smile. They were right. He did love Ren and he wanted to be with her always. Gaara took another look in the mirror, studying himself and his friends. "We look like penguins," Gaara murmured. He'd only seen pictures of them in books but knew they fit the description.

All four men looked at themselves and each other. They were all wearing black tuxedos with sky blue bowties. "Yeah," the three others said in unison with a sigh.

"It's worth it. You'll forget all about the dumb suit when you see her," Kankuro said as he patted his brother's shoulder. Once upon a time he'd have killed to be in his brother's shoes. Ren was a very special girl and he had often imagined she would be who he married, just friends or not. He was happy for his brother and only felt a little jealousy despite that. He knew full well he had blown any chance he had with Ren. She hadn't given him the time of day in years, granted she wasn't there most of it. He had come to terms with that and was glad that she found someone who made her happy, happier than he ever could.

"Kankuro's right," Naruto said with a foxy grin, "You're gonna see her and the only reason you'll think about the suit is to remove it."

Kankuro chuckled as Lee stared at the group confused. Gaara simply sighed in irritation. Why did he call these people friends? "C'mon," Naruto said as he put his hands on Gaara's shoulders to steer him towards the door, "You've got a blushing bride to marry."

"Just remember to breathe. You'll be alright," Kankuro said as he followed.

"Yes. Breathing is a good thing. We are here for you every step of the way," Lee said as he too followed.

That's why. That's why they were his friends. They were there for him no matter how petty the situation. They picked him up and dusted him off. They understood him and helped him through everything. He loved his friends. He watched as Naruto took the lead, waddling like a penguin, which made Gaara smile. Kankuro soon joined in and Lee was laughing so hard he couldn't walk straight. He could do this and he'd do it with his friends supporting him every step of the way.

XXXXXXXX

Gaara stood in front of the monk who would be preforming the ceremony since he couldn't do so for his own wedding. The monk was elderly with gray hair he wore in a comb-over style in a failed attempt to hide his balding head. He wore a green ornamental robe and held a scroll in his hands to read from. He had his back to the crowd that had gathered below the balcony to watch their Kazekage's wedding. The crowd itself was growing to be quite large. Gaara had made sure every available ninja was free to stand on crowd duty as well as to view the wedding.

Soft music started playing. The doors to the academy opened and Gaara turned his head to stare at the opening. Hanabi and Kankuro emerged. Kankuro looked like a giant next to the small 13 year old. He was so tall and she was so short. Gaara would have laughed if he weren't so composed on the outside and too nervous on the inside.

Kankuro and Hanabi parted ways. Kankuro moved to stand beside him and Hanabi stood next to where Ren would be. Ino and Lee came down the aisle next. Their arms were linked, like Kankuro's and Hanabi's had been, but they were standing as far apart as possible. Gaara could practically feel the jealousy rolling off of Sakura who sat in the second row on his side next to Baki. Ren's side held the Hyuga's and Sasuke. The two parted ways and moved to stand in their designated places.

Naruto and Temari looked stranger together than Lee and Ino had. Temari looked lovely though. All the ladies did so far. Naruto looked completely uncomfortable. Gaara could imagine the death threats as they walked. Temari probably had a kunai held to his back or something since she walked with her free hand behind her body. Gaara smirked a little. She would make sure everything went smoothly without a problem. He loved her. "Why am I suddenly admitting to loving everyone," Gaara mused to himself. He knew the answer was because he was so happy and appreciative to everyone today.

The music changed and Ren and Naoma emerged from the doorway. His breath caught in his chest and he had a hard time reminding himself to breathe until Naruto elbowed him in the side and told him to do so. She looked… there were no words for it. A small smile formed on her pink lips and he had to swallow hard to get the lump to go down. He was so sure he wanted to marry her that all doubts faded. Naoma slipped her arm from Ren's and took Gaara's hand. He noticed Naoma was shaking. Their eyes locked. 'Take good care of her,' he could feel her pleading with him. He nodded and she placed Ren's hand in his. Naoma stepped down from the altar and sat next to Hiashi who took her hand and offered her a tissue.

He stared at Ren and she stared back. She had tears forming in her eyes and he knew she would let them fall by the end of the ceremony. Her hands were trembling too so he rubbed them with his thumbs. The monk opened his scroll and looked between the two of them. They both broke each other's gaze and looked at him to nod. They were ready. They both knew this was what they wanted and they knew everything would be fine. Ino had been right, the only person Ren could focus on was Gaara.

"Ohayo friends, family," The monk said as he looked at the people seated on the balcony. He then turned to the crowd and said, "Citizens of Sunagakure." It was a good thing he had a microphone because his voice was quiet but echoed through the street below. There was an echo of 'Ohayo's through the street below. He turned back to the couple. "Today we are gathered for a happy occasion. We are gathered here together on this beautiful morning to be overjoyed for, and with, Sabaku Gaara- Fifth Kazekage of Sunagakure and Hyogo Ren who have reminded us that even after so many terrible things happen goodness brightens our lives. Love shines through the darkness and creates new hope. They are the promise of possibility, the expectation of joyful surprise. We are here to witness, celebrate, and honor the union of this loving young couple.

"Divine light that illuminated our hearts and gives life to each cell of our being, we give thanks for the love that has gathered us together in this place, and especially for the beautiful, heartwarming love that Gaara and Ren have chosen this day to consecrate in marriage. For all the beauty that you have bestowed upon them we give great thanks, for their open hearts and loving spirits, for their wisdom in choosing to love, for their willingness to walk on the path of true love, with all its joys and burdens and lessons. Bless them now with your joyful abundant radiance, so that the words they say, the feelings that beautifully transform them in these moments, and the dreams that they dare to dream can be lived out in their marriage. Marriage is a special place, the sheltered environment in which we can endlessly explore ourselves in the presence of another and in which we can offer the possibility of true reflection of another.

"As the writer Richard Bach has so beautifully stated, 'A soul mate is someone who has locks that fit our keys, and keys to fit our locks. When we feel safe enough to open the locks, our truest selves step out and we can be completely and honestly who we are; we can be loved for who we are and not for who we're pretending to be. Each unveils the best part of the other. No matter what else goes wrong around us, with that one person we're safe in our own paradise. Our soul mate is someone who shares our deepest longings, our sense of direction… Our soul mate is the one who makes life come to life.'

"Marriage is the incubator of love, the protected environment in which a love that is personal and touching and real can grow and, as a consequence of that growth, develop in us our highest capabilities as loving human beings. We are each still and always growing, and when we marry, we promise not only our own growth, but also our willingness to witness and withstand the ongoing growth of another human being. That is because in marrying we promise to love not only as we feel right now, but also as we intend to feel. In marriage we say not only, 'I love you today,' but also, 'I promise to love you tomorrow, the next day, and always.'

"Enfolded in joy, inhabited by hope, bathed in the infinite spectrum of light that is love, may you always be infused with it and beautifully illuminated by it. May every desire you have for your love be fulfilled, and may you be given the vision with which to clearly behold one another, the listening with which to perceive one another most genuinely, and the endless generosity of spirit with which to nourish one another's soul and sweetly keep the promises you make here today. Gaara and Ren, I remind you that marriage is a precious gift, a lifelong dedication to love and a daily challenge to love one another more fully and more freely."

Ren smiled and the first tear fell down her cheek. Gaara's heart was racing in his chest. They were really doing this. One step closer to the rest of their lives. He took a deep breath and watched the slow stream of tears fall from Ren's pale white eyes. Her makeup didn't run and she looked simply beautiful. She stared at him with hope and love and he returned it with his own gaze.

The monk continued, "Do you Sabaku Gaara, take Hyogo Ren, to be your beloved wife, knowing in your heart that you will be a faithful friend, and a loving companion? On this special day, in the presence of family and friends as witnesses, do you give your sacred vow that you will always be with Ren and support her, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow? Do you promise to love her completely, to console and comfort her during difficult times, to laugh with her and to grieve with her, to share with her life's simplest but most enduring pleasures, to be truthful and honest with her, and to cherish her, for as long as you both shall live?"

Without hesitation Gaara nodded while saying, "I do."

"Do you Hyogo Ren, take Sabaku Gaara, to be your beloved husband, knowing in your heart that you will be a faithful friend, and a loving companion? On this special day, in the presence of family and friends as witnesses, do you give your sacred vow that you will always be with Gaara and support him, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow? Do you promise to love him completely, to console and comfort him during difficult times, to laugh with him and to grieve with him, to share with him life's simplest but most enduring pleasures, to be truthful and honest with him, and to cherish him, for as long as you both shall live?"

Ren took a shaky breath and squeaked out, "I do." She had to quietly clear her throat then repeat herself in a calmer voice, "I do."

"May I have the rings," the monk asked looking at Naruto and then Temari. Naruto pulled the ring Gaara would give to Ren out of his pocket while Temari handed Ren's ring for Gaara to the monk. He took both rings and then continued, "Gaara and Ren's rings are an external and visible sign of the internal and spiritual bond of love which unites their two hearts. May they serve as a seal of the vows Gaara and Ren have made to one another. These rings are symbols of eternity, beauty and strength. May this couple ever live in harmony, unity, love, and happiness from this day forward."

The monk handed the ring for Ren to Gaara. "Gaara, as you place the ring on Ren's finger, please repeat after me: I offer my vow to you in the form of this ring, so that my word and my love, will always be with you, close to your heart."

Gaara accepted the ring and slowly slid it onto Ren's shaking left hand as he said, "I offer my vow to you in the form of this ring, so that my word and my love, will always be with you, close to your heart." The ring lined up perfectly with her engagement ring. Gaara couldn't help but feel a little pride when he saw how much she was smiling.

Ren continued to smile and took the ring from the monk. "Ren, as you place the ring on Gaara's finger, please repeat after me: I offer my vow to you in the form of this ring, so that my word and my love, will always be with you, close to your heart."

With shaky hands Ren slid his ring on while saying, "I offer my vow to you in the form of this ring, so that my word and my love, will always be with you, close to your heart."

"So, with the power vested in me," the monk raised his hands towards the couple, "I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride." The monk smiled and winked at Gaara.

The two of them released hands and Gaara wrapped his arms around Ren's waist to pull her body against his. She wrapped her arms around his neck, their eyes never leaving each other. He hesitated a moment as he stared into his wife's white eyes. She smiled and he pressed his lips against hers in a chaste kiss, the first one of those he had ever given her. It lasted only half a minute but it was enough to get the crowd whistling and shouting encouragement. Their family and friends stood and applauded along with the crowd.

XXXXXXXX

The largest training room in the academy was lit with the soft glow of candles and dimmed lamps. There were tables set up for dinning, one to hold gifts, and another with the cake. There was a clear space for dancing. The room was filled with family, friends, and citizens of Suna who wanted to wish the newlyweds well.

"Could I have everyone's attention please," Naruto said as he gently tapped a knife against his wine glass and stood up. He was handed a microphone that he held awkwardly. "I, uh, I'm not very good with speeches like this but as the best man it's my job to start off the toasts and as future Hokage I guess I need the practice, so here goes. When I first met Gaara I had mixed feelings about him. It's no secret that he used to be a bloodthirsty demon. He says because of him I opened his eyes and caused him to change. What he doesn't know is that our battle brought out good in me too. I sometimes doubt myself but push through anyway. Gaara gave me a reason to win and because of that I re-learned that when you're protecting someone you care about, giving up isn't an option. Gaara thinks that way now too. He's a great friend and certainly one of my best friends. I haven't known his lovely wife long," Naruto turned to face Ren and wiggled his eyebrows at her to make her blush. Everyone laughed except Ino who elbowed him in the hip.

"Ow," Naruto called out into the microphone and it squealed. Naruto cleared his throat. "Sorry about that. As I was saying, I haven't known her long but I can tell the type of person she is. She seems to be the type of person who will do whatever it takes to keep others safe. She's strong and capable but also gentle and loving. The two of them love each other in a way that's hard to understand unless you see it for yourself. They get each other. It's like they can have a conversation without either saying a word just by looking at each other. She loves him and would do anything for him. The other day my buddy Sasuke," Naruto pointed to Sasuke and everyone looked at him, much to Sasuke and Hinata's despair, "He was saying some stuff about Gaara that Ren didn't like. We all know that if there was a real threat Gaara could handle himself. Ren also knows Sasuke's reputation and abilities from the stories she's been told. Despite that she was ready to take Sasuke on just because he mildly threatened Gaara because of his twisted sense of humor. She loves Gaara enough that she'd put her life on the line for him and I know he'd do the same for her. I want to wish you both a lifetime of happiness and a whole bunch of babies," Naruto grinned and raised his glass, "To Gaara and Ren."

Temari's was the next speech. Like Naruto she was a little nervous but pushed through. "As Ren's maid of honor I get to make the next speech. I've known Gaara his whole life, he's my brother after all, and know firsthand how much of a pain he can be. There have been countless times he would even consider killing me; that was in the past though. Sometimes he can be cold and distant while other times he's calm and a great listener. When Ren came into our lives she could have easily turned away when things got rough. When Gaara pushed her to her limits she could have walked away. She didn't. She had stuck by Gaara and he's stuck by her. They've been through a lot together that most people don't even know about. I think they suit each other so well that there's no breaking their bond. Marriage is just the next step in their life together and I know that they'll meet every challenge thrown at them and they'll do it together. To Ren and Gaara," Temari raised her glass and everyone toasted.

Ren and Gaara went through the motions of every wedding reception. They cut the cake (Ren smeared frosting on Gaara's face and everyone laughed until he shoved the whole piece of cake onto her face then everyone erupted), danced, and accepted well wishes. More toasts were made throughout the reception but none were quite as meaningful as Nartuo and Temari's. Even Baki's speech was dull in comparison. Evening was approaching and the party showed no signs of winding down.

Gaara sat at a table next to his wife facing it all. Her head was resting on his shoulder and her eyes were closed. She looked exhausted. He kissed her forehead but her eyes remained closed. The only indication she was even awake was her humming. He didn't know what song that was so he decided to ask her. "What's the song that you're humming," His voice was low but loud enough to be heard of the soft music playing around them.

Ren's eyes opened and she blushed slightly. "It's called Natsuhiboshi. I learned it when I was traveling."

He rubbed his hand against the small of her back. He realized he didn't know very much about what she all she learned during her four-year mission. He would have to remedy that. "Will you sing it to me," He asked. She nodded and opened her mouth to start singing but he placed his index finger over her lips. "Not here," he murmured. She lifted her head from his shoulder and he stood up. She stood and looked around to see if anyone was watching them. "They won't miss us," he told her gently and took her hand before leading her out of the room and into a quiet classroom.

"Did you see that," Naruto asked Ino as they danced. She looked at him puzzled. "Gaara and Ren just left," He muttered.

Ino giggled a little and nuzzled his neck with his nose. "They're just going to get some them time," Ino practically purred, "I'm going to do the same thing do you on our wedding day. We'll sneak away to someplace quiet and you'll have your way with your new wife."

"Ino," Naruto grunted out, "I'd wait until we got home."

She smirked a little and licked his ear causing him to shiver. "I wouldn't," She said with a wink.

Naruto wondered what had gotten into her… Then his hard crotch brushed against her waist and all he could say was, "Oh." He had gotten to her without even realizing it. It wasn't his fault she looked so sexy. He grinned like a fox and kissed her sweetly. All this wedding business was making him look forward to their wedding. He couldn't wait to make her Uzumaki Ino and she couldn't wait to be Uzumaki Ino.

Gaara locked the door to the classroom and turned on the light. Ren covered her mouth and laughed. "This is the classroom I taught in," she mused.

"Yes it is," he said as he walked over to his bride and pulled her into a gentle embrace. She wrapped her arms around his neck. "Sing to me," he requested.

She smiled and took a breath. "Natsuhiboshi, why are you so red? Because I had a sad dream last night. My eyes are red from the tears I've shed, swollen as I cried." She paused for a moment and he pressed his forehead against hers slightly with their eyes locked. "Natsuhiboshi why've you lost your way? I'm searching for a child who's gone afar. He can't be found though I search all day. My sad dreams come once more," She sang slowly and softly. To him her voice was beautiful, like a song bird. She could've been a singer in another life.

"It's a sad song," He said quietly.

"Hai but I like it. It's a song that I catch myself humming a lot. Kaasan says it's good to talk, hum, and sing to the baby, even if he or she can't hear it yet, so that it'll recognize our voices," She smiled proudly.

He returned her smile and pulled back a little but kept his arms around her. He kneeled down in front of her and placed his ear on her belly. "Hello in there," he said to her belly, "You be good to your mommy and stop making her feel sick all the time okay? Dad needs love too." Ren giggled and he looked up at her, "what it's true?'

"I think Naruto's rubbing off on you," She said as she ran her fingers through his crimson hair. She wondered if their baby would have his hair or hers. Would the baby have the byakugan or would it have his blue-green orbs? Who would the baby resemble more? All those questions ran through her mind every time she thought about their baby.

"What will we name him," Gaara asked as he stood back up.

"Him?"

"Yes, he'll be a boy," Gaara said passively.

Ren felt like on the inside he was grinning like Naruto. "What if it's a girl," She asked with her eyebrows arched.

"My gut tells me he's a boy."

"Well your gut could be wrong. I've been dreaming of a little girl," Ren smiled slightly.

"Your dreams are wrong," he chuckled slightly and pulled her close against his body.

"Wanna bet," she asked as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled his head down closer to hers gently.

"Alright. What are we betting?"

"Well, if it's a girl then you owe me a vacation of my choosing."

"And if it's a boy?"

"I'll walk around naked three of your days off."

Gaara smirked a little. "It's a deal," he said before sealing it with a kiss.

As his lips pressed against hers she pulled her body closer to his. She was suddenly hating her dress. He was hating it too. There was no skin exposed anywhere. He licked her bottom lip and she opened her mouth. He slid his tongue inside her mouth and licked every inch of it. This was how he had wanted to kiss her when the ceremony ended. His heart was racing and she tasted so sweet, like the cake. Her whole body was heating up over a simple, yet dreamy, kiss.

He pulled the skirt of her dress up and she wrapped one leg around him. She moaned softly when she felt his erection as he moved his hips against her roughly. He lifted her up by her thighs and she wrapped her legs around his waist. He pressed her back against the wall and she moaned out again as he grinded against her core. "I want you," She whispered as she blushed.

That was all Gaara needed to lower her back to the floor and loosen his bowtie and unbutton his shirt enough to breathe. He unfastened his pants in the same hurried frenzy. He lifted her again and pulled her lace panties aside, ripping them slightly. "I want you too," he said huskily as he buried himself inside her dripping wet flower and pinned her to the wall. She moaned out loudly and held onto him tightly. "You'll need to be quiet," he told her while holding himself still. It was torture but he couldn't have her drawing attention to them.

She nodded and then he started moving his hips. This position was harder than he imagined. He had to keep her up and keep his balance too but damn did it feel good. He grunted as he slid deep inside her repeatedly. He felt whole and she felt complete. He pumped his hard member into her roughly and she bit his exposed collarbone to keep from moaning too loudly. The action made him groan though. She was a biter and he loved/hated that. He was going to bruise.

Her walls clamped around him so tightly he almost saw stars. She was starting to drool a little as he pounded into her. "I love you," She moaned into his ear quietly, "You and only you."

Gaara couldn't help the sense of pride that washed over him. She was now completely his and would be forever. That made making love to her all the sweeter. "I love you as well," he told her before pressing his lips against hers and pushing his tongue between them. He groaned as the muscles within her caused her walls to clinch around him. He broke the kiss and stopped thrusting into her as he looked around the classroom. He continued to hold her as he walked to the teacher's empty desk and sat on it with her on top of him.

She wasted no time before she was bouncing on his erection and moaning out. He gripped her breasts through her dress but couldn't do much with them. He was really hating that damn dress and was tempted to tear it off. If they had been at home he might have. He leaned back on the desk to lay almost flat. He propped himself up on his elbows and watched the sight before him.

His new wife was moving her hips in a quick rhythm that almost had him sliding out of her each time she lifted up. He could feel the entrance of her womanhood just barely around the head of his member each and every time. It felt amazing. She had her eyes closed and her head thrown back. He grunted a little as he suddenly felt his balls tighten. He reached forward to rub his thumb against her hard little ball of nerves. She nearly jumped and her legs twitched. He smirked and did it again.

It didn't take long for them both to lose themselves in the moment and orgasm. He sat up when Ren stopped riding him, her climax over, and wrapped his arms around her. He was breathing hard and she was breathing harder. "We have a thing for desks," Ren muttered into his neck as she closed her eyes.

"Seems that we do," He replied with a hint of amusement in his voice, "Let's hope the lock on that door works." Ren's head shot up and she stared at the door. "I was kidding," he said gently. She playfully smacked him then started laughing. "What's so funny?"

"All this just because I mentioned walking around naked," She asked with an eyebrow raised.

"No. I wanted you before we even came in here," he admitted.

"Someone's surely noticed we're gone by now," She whispered.

"Probably. Are you ready to go back?"

"I'm afraid to get off you," Ren murmured with a blush.

The task of getting her off him, cleaning up, and fixing both their outfits would indeed be rather difficult. They needed to figure out how not to ruin her dress. To quote Shikamaru, it was troublesome.

XXXXXXXX

Gaara sat out on the balcony of their hotel. They were currently in the Land of Tea. It was a nice break for the two of them. There wasn't another ninja in sight and they had had sex so many times Gaara had lost track. Gaara stared out at the water simply breathing in the cool night air. Ren was showering before bed and he was enjoying some time to reflect. So much had happened. "I've been the Fifth Kazekage since I was 14 and care greatly for my people. I'm married at 18 years old with a child on the way. It wasn't a mistake and I don't regret it. Who would have imagined I would ever love anyone. Have I proven you wrong yet, father," Gaara mused to himself. He knew he was not a heartless person. He was able to feel love and compassion. He was no monster like his father had thought. The Fourth was a family man except when it came to Gaara. He decided a long time ago that if he reproduced he would treat any and all of his children with love and kindness.

Two small hands found their way onto his shoulders. He was hit by a wave of apple blossoms and lavender. He smiled internally and his gaze instantly softened. He closed his eyes as Ren's hands massaged his stiff shoulders. "What are you thinking about," she asked quietly.

Gaara almost yawned. Her hands were like magic when it came to making him relax despite him knowing exactly how deadly they could be. "The past and the future," He told her softly. She didn't say anything but he could practically hear her nodding. He turned to look at her and he was met with her warm smile and gentle white eyes. His heart skipped a beat. He wondered if she would still have this effect on him in ten years. "How was your shower," he asked.

Ren removed her hands from his shoulders and started gathering her hair up at the base of her head. "It was really nice," She replied. She separated her hair into three clusters as she walked around the chair to sit on Gaara's lap. His arms instantly wrapped around her waist and he watched as she began braiding her hair. "I've been wondering," She stated before biting her lip and gathering her courage, "Does anyone know that I'm pregnant? I'm already starting to show a little. I'm not going to hide away for 6 months am I?"

Gaara stared at his wife. As if he could hide her even if he wanted to, which he didn't. His male pride wanted to parade his wife around like a medal. He never would do that to her, of course. She was his partner and the love of his life. He would much rather display that fact. She would walk beside him not behind him. He smiled at her as she braided her long, wet raven black hair. She was one of the few people he would show any emotion to simply because he felt it. His voice was passive and flat as always when he told her, "The council is aware as of the wedding. They would like to claim that the baby will be premature but that would be an unbelievable lie with there being three months between then and now. Kankuro, Temari, and Baki are on 'damage control' for when news does get out to our citizens. The council has already informed the daimyo and he has no objections since we 'did the right thing.' We both know that's not why we got married but it is not necessary that he or anyone else does."

Ren wrapped a white piece of cloth around the end of her braid and tied it tightly. "I don't really want people to believe that's why we're married but their opinions don't matter I suppose. Things are bound to be said that aren't true and will be hurtful. I'm ready for that," she said softly with a weak smile on her lips. She released the braid and it swung back behind her. Gaara rubbed her slight baby bump with his hand and her smile became more real. "I'm going to miss this," she commented and she laid her head against the crook of his neck.

"Miss what," Gaara asked as the kanji on his forehead rose slightly. They would be together always. What was there to miss?

"Being away from everything. It just being us, no one else. When we get back it'll be paperwork and visitors. You've probably got a lot of things to do with the Hyuga party departing soon."

He nodded. "I'll miss this time too. I'm sorry it's only for the weekend and the travel home," He said with understanding. Tonight was their last night here and it would be sad to leave the village. He had enjoyed having Ren beside him constantly. "I've been thinking," He stated, "I do need an assistant. You'll be busy with your wifely duties but would you like to do it?" Ren sat up and looked at him. He realized he had just started digging himself a hole. "I mean party planning and hosting events. I didn't mean cooking and cleaning or anything like that. I'd never ask you to do any of that if you didn't want to."

She nodded and rested back against his neck. She closed her eyes and said a silent thanks to Momoko for everything the noblewoman had taught her. It would be useful for being the Kazekage's wife. "I'll be your assistant if you want me to, it's not like I can take missions while pregnant. Do you think I could invite Momoko-nee-san to one of those parties," Ren asked so quietly Gaara would have missed it if she weren't so close to his ear.

"Nee-san?"

"Hai. I think Hanabi-imouto is contagious. I've been thinking about it a lot and Momoko-san is a lot like my older sister in my eyes. I miss her," Ren said with a hint of sadness in her voice.

"Well, she is more than welcome in our home at any time. Any of your friends are," Gaara told her as he rubbed her back. He really hated when she was even just a little upset.

"Arigato," Ren said as she kissed his neck.

"You're welcome. It's your house too."

"I've been meaning to ask you something else. Why did Oji-sama go to Suna? To my knowledge he's not been meeting with anyone for business purposes. He never mentioned trying to marry Hanabi off. What business did he have? He certainly stayed longer than expected as well. I know meeting me was a shock but I don't get it," Ren said softly.

"He was staying with us to take a bride of his own. The Elder Hyuga Council has suggested that he not die alone. It's amusing to think about. He informed me that he was against it and merely came to appease the council. I believe he's stuck around for you, though I could be wrong. He is a man of silence and arrogance," Gaara replied.

"He doesn't seem quite so arrogant around Kaasan. I've caught them laughing together before. It's nice, seeing her smile like that. It's nice to see him let loose a little too. Someone else I know could stand to smile more too," She nuzzled his neck with playfulness in her voice.

He chuckled low in his throat and rested his head against hers. "Perhaps in time you'll have me laughing in front of everyone. For now I am content only showing that side of myself to you."

Ren blushed slightly and carefully sat up. "We should go to bed," She said quietly, "We need to leave first thing in the morning." Gaara nodded and they both stood up to return to their room.

XXXXXXXX

Gaara and Ren arrived home tired. Ren was being quite moody, to the point that even Gaara was afraid to speak to her or look at her wrong. He internally sighed and was thankful he was patient and usually silent anyway. They were both ready to be home. Gaara let Ren go into the house first, her bag clutched in his hand. She stepped in, took off her shoes then headed into the living room. He did the same. Ren stopped suddenly and he lightly bumped her. "Sorry," he said but she didn't hear. She was standing stiff as a board. His gaze traveled to where hers was and nearly blanched.

On the couch Hyuga Hiashi had his arm draped over Hyogo Naoma's shoulder and they were kissing. It wasn't chaste. It was tongue vs tongue. He suddenly felt like throwing up. His wife seemed to have the same reaction because she was soon sprinting down the hall and a door being slammed echoed through the mansion. Naoma and Hiashi quickly separated and looked at the Kazekage. He wasn't sure how to handle this one. His eyes were wide and he almost dropped Ren's bag. Hiashi cleared his throat and Gaara's eyes darted away. This was either a really good thing or a really bad one. Gaara's gut said that for his wife it was the latter.

"Hyuga-san, Hyogo-san," Gaara said with a nod of his head.

"Kazekage-sama," they both replied in unison.

Gaara put Ren's bag on his shoulder with his own and walked into the hall after his wife. This was going to be a very bad situation. Gaara suddenly understood exactly why Hyuga Hiashi had remained in Sunagakure for this long. Kami help him if Ren was angry. Gaara had just pulled Ren away from a staring match with an iguana earlier that morning simply because she felt it had glared at her. He would have laughed if that wouldn't have been a death sentence to do so.

Gaara entered his their bedroom with caution. He wasn't sure what sight would fall upon him when he stepped inside. Ren wasn't in the room but the bathroom door was closed. He almost let out a breath of relief but reminded himself she could very well be angry. He placed both their bags on the bed and went to work unpacking them. He could hear water running and Ren mumbling to herself the whole time. She was indeed irritated. He really hoped Naoma and Hiashi were still out in the living room so they could do some damage control of their own. He really didn't want to have to try to calm down his 3 months pregnant wife. Nope. It wasn't his fault. He sighed and closed his black eyelids. He'd have to calm her down before she went out there. "Kuso," he muttered under his breath.

Ren opened the bathroom door with more force than necessary. She saw Gaara putting her hairbrush on her vanity and forced herself to take a deep breath. She had been moody enough with him as it was and none of it was his fault. She felt bad for that. It wasn't like her to be so 'hot and cold'. She walked up to him and wrapped her arms around him from behind. "Gomen," She said into his back. She felt terrible. She was still angry about what they had just walked in on though.

"It's okay. You were hot, tired, and frustrated. You didn't do anything to me. You should probably have apologized to the lizard though," Gaara teased.

Ren's cheeks heated up slightly and she gave a small laugh. She had been very irrational about it and now that she wasn't in the heat of the moment she could admit how silly she had been. "Poor little guy didn't know what to think probably," She said between giggles.

"He was quite intimidated by you," Gaara commented. He was laughing on the inside but simply smiled on the outside.

"I guess I should go talk to my mother and uncle," she said with a sigh.

"It's best to get that out of the way," Gaara said with a nod.

Ren let him go and took a few steps towards the door. "Will you come with me," Ren asked before chewing on her bottom lip. Gaara nodded and then stepped up to her to kiss her gently. He loved and hated when she would chew on her bottom lip. It made him want to chew on it himself but often times she did it when she was worrying. When she was worrying a lot she would chew on it so often that it would dry and split. He disliked when that happened. Ren released her lip from between her teeth and kissed him back. She loved this man, with good reason. He could comfort her without much effort.

They walked into the living room hand in hand and found Naoma and Hiashi sitting at opposite ends of the couch like two children who had just been separated and placed in time out. Gaara was slightly amused but when Ren's gentle face became a little harder he stiffened. The two of them sat on the loveseat in front of Naoma and Hiashi. Gaara was in front of Hiashi and Ren was in front of Naoma. "This is going to be troublesome," Gaara thought to himself then contemplated, "Shikamaru has rubbed off on me. Why does Temari have to talk about him so much?"

"Before you get angry," Naoma said softly while looking at Ren, "Hiashi and I have been spending a lot of time together. That wasn't a spur of the moment thing or anything like that." Ren simply scowled and said nothing.

"I've asked your mother to marry me and she has agreed," Hiashi stated.

Gaara raised a non-existent eyebrow and Ren's scowl increased. She was glaring daggers at her paternal uncle. "I'm supposed to be okay with this right," Ren snapped, "I'm supposed to be fine with my mother running off and marrying a man she just met a month ago? You're 42," she looked at Naoma, "and 47," she turned back to Hiashi, "years old. Shouldn't you two be acting with more sense? I mean seriously," She looked at Naoma again, "He's my uncle for Kami's sake. He's the brother of the man you claimed you loved. How could either of you do that to Otou-san, to me?"

Naoma and Hiashi were both sporting frowns. "We are using our common sense. I enjoy her company and she enjoys mine. My brother found happiness for a short time with his new wife while your mother sat here alone. He has been dead for a long time. We are getting to know one another and will continue to do so after we are married. We would like to be together for the rest of our lives. Your mother will be returning to Konohagakure with me, with the Kazekage's permission of course," Hiashi said looking at Gaara.

"Shimatta. This is not going to go over well," Gaara told himself as his eyes darted to his wife. She crossed her arms and started bouncing her left leg. He was going to be in trouble no matter which way he answered that question. He opened his mouth to speak but Naoma interrupted.

"Gomen, Kazekage-sama, but I would prefer you not answer that right now. My daughter needs to understand and I would not like to put you in an even more uncomfortable situation," Naoma said quickly. "Ren," She turned to her daughter, "Please try to understand. Do not be angry with me. You're married and having a baby. You've got your own life now and I want to have my own too. Hiashi makes me happy. I want to be happy. I see that you're happy and I know that Gaara-sama will take good care of you. Now I want to take care of me. Is that too much to ask?"

Ren frowned and stared from Hiashi to Naoma. What kind of daughter would she be to be angry with her mother for wanting happiness? Her mother could have compared the two of them. She and Ren weren't so different. Sure Ren had known Gaara for years but they didn't even date before they had sex. They rushed everything. She had no room to talk. She continued to frown but nodded. She couldn't look at them anymore so she looked away. "Alright," She murmured.

Gaara's hand squeeze hers gently and he said, "I'll get started on the necessary paperwork for your new citizenship then. I'll have to be in touch with Hatake-sama and do not know how long it will take."

"We'll remain here until all is settled," Hiashi replied.

"I'm going to take a bubble bath," Ren muttered as she stood up, pulling her hand from Gaara's gently.

"Make sure you don't make it too warm," Naoma reminded her.

Ren stared at Naoma with blank eyes for two seconds before walking off to bathe. Was her mother not just saying she didn't need to take care of her and was going to make her own happiness with Hiashi because Ren had Gaara to look after her? Ren sighed. Old habits die hard.

"Good luck with her," Hiashi told Gaara with a chuckle. "It's lucky that she's one to listen to logic even when angry though. That child will have quite the temper, I'm sure of it."

"I'm far more worried that he will take after myself," Gaara muttered before standing to follow his wife.

XXXXXXXX

Ren, Gaara, Temari, Kankuro, Naoma, and the Hyuga party stood at the gates of Sunagakure. The sun was barely above the horizon and the sky was slowly becoming lighter. There was a chill in the air; it was only spring after all. "I wish we didn't have to leave now," Hanabi whined to Hiashi, "I want to stay here with Ren-nee-san and you."

"Naoma and I will be home as soon as Hokage-sama gets through the paperwork of her citizenship. It will not be so long. Ren will come to see us for the wedding. It will not be long at all, little firecracker. Take care of your sister and remember what we discussed. The council is not to know about Ren until I return. You do not need to be the one to lie to them and I will be able to keep the situation under control when I do. Return to your training and keep the house."

Hanabi frowned and crossed her arms. She really hated this. She was the heiress. She needed to be at home for her clan but she didn't want to leave her father and soon-to-be-step-mother. She really didn't want to leave Ren. Hanabi's eyes shot to the left where Hinata and Ren were talking.

"I'm sure otou-sama has told you he's going to tell the clan that you are his daughter. It would mean that, as my older sister, you are the heiress. Because you've married in another village that role would fall to me but since I married Sasuke," Hinata's eyes glanced at her husband who was listening to whatever Sakura was saying, "I have given up that position by taking his name and joining his clan. It is better this way. It means that you have no possibility of having the seal put on your byakugan. His marriage to your mother will hopefully make things easier," Hinata said with a sigh.

"I really hope so. They both deserve to be happy and I suppose that because they wish to marry, the lie is more believable. I hope none of this bites us later though," Ren sighed as well.

"I hope not too," Hinata's words trailed off.

"I'm going to miss you so much," Ino shouted as she ran up and threw her arms around Ren's shoulders. "You've got to come to Konoha sometimes and see me. I'll write to you often and bug you until you do."

Ren smiled and hugged Ino back. "I will miss you too," She whispered.

The girls parted and then she was pulled into another hug. "Take good care of Gaara for me," Naruto said as he squeezed Ren against him. Her baby bump did not deter him at all but he was gentle enough that Ren and the baby weren't hurt.

"I will, Naruto-kun," Ren said as she rubbed the boy's back.

The second she was released from Naruto, Hinata had her arms around the woman. These were more hugs than she was used to. "Take care and I'll keep in touch," Hinata whispered.

"You take care too," Ren said as they parted.

Ren's heart stopped for a second when she saw Sasuke take a step towards her. If he hugged her she would surely die. He didn't. He extended his hand to her and she took it. "Be safe," She told him gently.

"Hn," he replied with a nod, "Be safe too."

Ren hoped the hug-fest was over now but when she saw Hanabi had left her father and was running towards her, she knew better. Hanabi slowed to a stop then hugged Ren around her middle. At four months her baby bump was showing more than it had been and it made hugging her a little more difficult for the 13 year old. "I'm going to miss you so much, Ren-nee! I wish I could stay here with you," Hanabi cried out. Tears started forming in Hanabi's eyes and that was all Ren needed to develop tears of her own.

The two of them cried in each other's arms and soon another pair of arms was around them too. It was Hinata. All three were crying. They would all miss each other so much. Hinata was pulled off by Sasuke, Hanabi by Hiashi, and Ren found herself in Kankuro's arms. Ren sniffled and looked around for Gaara to find him talking to Naruto, Temari, Ino, Sakura, Lee, and the shinobi on gate duty.

She knew he was the Kazekage but that didn't make the fact it was his brother comforting her any easier. She buried her face into the black fabric on Kankuro's chest and he held her protectively. She could hear Sasuke and Hiashi offering comforting words to Hinata and Hanabi. Kankuro stayed silent and simply petted her head to let her cry it out.

"Uh, Gaara," Temari said to get Gaara's attention. She didn't like interrupting her brother midsentence but the sight she was staring at made her go pale. "Look," She said and nodded towards the three Hyuga females. She couldn't believe her brother. This could seriously cause problems. She could clearly see that the three girls were crying but Kankuro should've gotten Gaara rather than comforting her himself. Anyone who saw would have a field day with the gossip.

Gaara's gaze followed hers and his eyes hardened. He visibly stiffened and excused himself from the group. He was irritated so much at his wife and brother. What right did he have to embrace her like that? He was resting his head on top of hers and rubbing her head. She had her hands around his middle linked. Gaara couldn't see either of their faces. It didn't register with him in his rage that Hinata and Hanabi were both crying. All he saw was his brother putting the moves on his wife, who was letting him. Gaara hoped the baby would kick its uncle but knew that wouldn't happen. Ren had only felt little flutters once and then Gaara couldn't feel them.

Gaara tapped Kankuro's shoulder and stood with his blue-green eyes narrowed. Kankuro lifted his head which made Ren lift hers and both turned to look at Gaara. Kankuro was sure he was going to die. He had just been trying to be a good friend. Gaara was busy with the escort teams and Ren needed someone now, not when he found time. He could've left her standing there watching Sasuke comfort Hinata but that would've made things far worse for Gaara later.

Gaara glance at Ren and realized she was crying. His eyes softened slightly. She and Kankuro separated slowly and within two seconds she was against his chest sobbing. Gaara possessively put his arms around her and looked at Kankuro. He wouldn't forgive his brother but now he understood, sort of, why. They would discuss it later. Right now Gaara didn't understand why the females were crying.

"Saying goodbye to sisters, even those that are really just cousins, is difficult," Kankuro elaborated for him. "You used to cry when Temari would leave," Kankuro informed him, "Y'know, back before The Fourth separated us from you."

Gaara nodded. He could believe that. He told Ren softly, "You'll see them soon."

"What if they die? What if I die? I've lost a brother already," Ren sobbed against his chest.

"They will be fine," Gaara and Kankuro said at the same time.

The two brothers stared at each other and Kankuro sighed. He stepped back and went to go talk to Temari or anyone but Gaara. Gaara looked at Ren and kissed the top of her head while saying, "I'll never let anything happen to you. You don't have to worry. Hanabi and Hinata will be safe as well. They are both very skilled and capable."

"So was Neji," Ren whimpered and then repeated, "So was Neji."

Gaara didn't know what to say. Neji had been a skilled shinobi. Gaara could think of nothing to say so he just held her and let her cry. An idea popped into his head. "I have some good news," Gaara said. When she looked up at him through teary eyes he continued, "Lee and Sakura will be remaining here until Hiashi-san leaves. Sakura is excited to be able to continue to watch over your pregnancy, if only for a short time more. Lee is also working on a training regimen for you for after the baby. Those are two good things." He had had to change the subject. He still was not good with comfort and was still learning. He needed to get her to think of happy things. When she smiled, even though it was weak, he relaxed a little.

XXXXXXXX

Ren groaned as she sat up in bed. The sun wasn't even up yet but she had to get up. She was so uncomfortable she couldn't stand it and she needed to pee. Her muscles ached and she had to move. She glanced at the clock beside the bed and grimaced when it read 4:30 am. She rubbed her face and turned backwards to look at Gaara. He was laying on his back with his black eyelids closed. His breathing was calm and steady he seemed to be sleeping well. She was glad she hadn't woken him. Ren slipped out of bed and grabbed one of Gaara's black turtlenecks and a pair of her blue athletic pants from the dresser. She disappeared into the bathroom to change.

Ren relieved herself before she slipped the pants on. The shirt followed and she groaned silently. Gaara's shirt hugged her growing baby bump tightly. She really needed to get her own clothing that would fit her belly. She looked at her reflection in the mirror and groaned again. She looked like hell. She had dark bags under her eyes and her hair wasn't as shiny as it had been in the past. She ran her fingers through it and sighed when she came to a tangle. She didn't braid it the night before and now getting her brush through it would be frustrating. She took her time brushing her hair and stared at herself. She felt fat and ugly today.

Ren finished getting ready without looking at the mirror any more. She slipped from the bathroom, through the bedroom, and out the bedroom door with as much stealth as she possibly could. She had just closed the door when her stomach growled and she felt little flutters of the baby moving. She nearly laughed. Her hunger had woken the baby. She suddenly wanted yokan. She hated yokan. With yet another sigh Ren made her way to the kitchen. They didn't have any and she could make some herself but it would take hours before it was ready. She frowned and made a rolled omelet instead. She could go by the store and get yokan later if she was still craving it. She was pouring herself some milk when she heard someone yawn behind her. She turned to see Lee standing there rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "Ohayo, Lee-sensei," Ren said with a smile as she put the milk away.

"Ohayo Ren-chan," Lee shouted. Ren held her index finger up to her lips to indicate for him to be quieter. "Sorry," Lee said quietly with a chuckle.

Ren smiled and patted his shoulder. "It's okay, Lee-sensei. Would you like something to eat," Ren asked softly. He nodded. "Is a rolled omelet okay?"

"Yes that would be most wonderful," Lee replied. She handed him the one she had just made for herself. "Thank you, Ren-chan," Lee said with a bow, "Your cooking is the best I have ever had. It could rival Hinata-san's." He was already sitting at the table by the time he was done talking.

"Thank you but I don't think so. I have had her cooking. It's amazing," Ren said with a giggle. She got to work on making another omelet. "Ano, Lee-sensei," Ren said as she mixed the ingredients, "do you think you could help me train today? I have been doing small workouts here and there but feel out of shape."

"But Ren-chan you are almost six months pregnant. I could not possibly allow you to exert yourself," he replied after swallowing. "This is so good," He muttered before shoving more of the omelet into his mouth.

"I know," Ren sighed. She poured the mixture into the pan and leaned her back against the counter to let it cook. "I just wanted to train with you before you left. I haven't gotten the chance to yet and you'll be leaving as soon as everything is in order. It doesn't feel very youthful to let such a situation pass by us."

Lee stopped chewing and looked at Ren. Tears started forming in his eyes and she suddenly wondered what she had said wrong. She knew he could be over emotional at times but she didn't mean to make him cry. She was about to frown but his next words caught her even more off guard. "You are right! We owe it to our youth to train together at least once before my departure. It is going to be a glorious day!" Lee held his hands up in fists bellow his chin and large streams of tears fall down his face while his lips were bowed into a smile.

Ren suddenly wished she could have coffee. She would need it to deal with him. What had she been thinking? That she was fat, out of shape, and he was the perfect workout partner… that's what she had been thinking. She sighed internally and flipped the omelet over in silence. She took a deep breath and sipped her milk. "It's coffee… It's coffee… It's coffee," She kept telling herself. Mind over matter wasn't working as she watched the teary display her long-distance-sensei was giving. He wiped his eyes and grinned. "We'll head to the training grounds after breakfast, ne?"

"Of course! I will go get ready," Lee said as he stood. His food was already gone and in a blur of green pajamas so was he.

Ren sighed and finished preparing her omelet. Maybe this wouldn't be such a good idea after all. She rubbed her belly as the baby gave her a swift kick. "Gaako? Will that make a good name? I just know you're a little girl," Ren said to the baby growing inside her. She smiled and began to sing Natsuhiboshi as she walked to the table. The baby seemed to settle down and Ren almost laughed. This wouldn't be so hard would it? Sure sleepless nights, long days, and crying would be part of her life. It would be worth it. Ren was sure of it.

XXXXXXXX

Ren and Lee made it to the training grounds slower than Ren would have liked. She wasn't as fast as she used to be and that was frustrating but she knew it was because she was too afraid to move her legs too much. Lee stretched and took a deep breath. "Ah the morning air of Suna is truly magnificent. The sun's already starting to rise and warm the sand beneath our sandals as tribute to our youthfulness!"

Ren was ready to duct tape his mouth already. "Shall we get started then Lee-sensei," Ren asked sweetly. She wasn't even sure why she was annoyed with him and certainly didn't want to show that she was. She took a deep breath and began stretching as much as her belly would allow.

Lee followed her example and the two of them soon found themselves sitting with their legs spread, feet touching, and hands linked. Lee would lean back and Ren would lean forward as far as she could. Then Ren would lean back and Lee would lean forward. They had been doing stretches like that for only ten minutes when a screech was heard behind Ren and she watched all color leave Lee's face. "What are you doing," a shrill feminine voice shrieked. Ren released Lee's hands and turned to see Sakura with her hands on her hips. The pinkette's left temple was twitching and she was staring at Lee with killer intent. "You both know you aren't supposed to be training too hard! He's going to run you into the ground," Sakura scolded, her eyes locked on Ren's.

Ren felt two inches tall as the girl ranted about the risks of exercising too much and exhausting herself. She told her that she had to think about the baby. By the time the medic was done ranting Lee and Ren had stood up, brushed themselves off, and were leaning against a training dummy while she paced back and forth in front of them. "My sweet cherry blossom! It is me who has caused this. It felt like it would be un-youthful to have let such an opportunity pass us by! I have been Ren-chan's sensei since after the chunin exams and so I wanted to train with her at least once," Lee said to his girlfriend.

Sakura stopped pacing and stared at Lee with her hands on her hips. "You can't do that Lee. Yes it's okay to exercise during pregnancy but I know how you train, Lee. She'd be so tired and sore and strain herself. That's not okay," Sakura said with a sigh. She could understand her boyfriend's intentions meant well but the medic in her wanted to lecture him up and down the wall.

Ren was touched that Lee had stood up for her to his girlfriend. Sakura, in truth, scared Ren. She had watched her hit Naruto so many times that Ren cringed every time the pinkette raised her voice. "Gomen, Sakura-san," Ren said sheepishly, "I was the one who suggested it. Please don't tell Gaara about this." Ren bit her lip and stared at the pinkette. There was a mischievous twinkle in her jade eyes that weren't focused on Ren.

"Tell me about what," Gaara asked from behind her.

All color left Ren's already pale face and she was so glad she was already leaning on the training dummy. She might have had her knees go out on her had she not been. Gaara had heard. Gaara knew. "Kuso," Ren thought. She knew she needed to tell the truth now. "I was training with Lee-sensei and Sakura-san caught us. She's lectured us both and no harm was done," Ren said quietly without looking back at her husband. She couldn't face him right now. He might see just how guilty she felt.

"C'mon Lee," Sakura said as she turned to leave to give the married couple their privacy. Lee bowed to Gaara then Ren before following after the medic.

"You left the bed to train with Lee? Why didn't you wake me," Gaara asked. He was still feeling a little insecure about how friendly Kankuro and Ren were. Surely he shouldn't have to worry about one of his best friends too.

"It didn't start out like that. I was just so uncomfortable that I had to get up. My whole body was aching. I didn't want to wake you up. You looked so peaceful and I know you need your rest. I wasn't expecting Lee to be up this early but I asked him to help me train because he was. I'm fat," Ren said with a sigh.

"You are not fat. You're pregnant," Gaara said as he walked to stand in front of her. He stared at her but she would not meet his gaze. He could admit that her cheeks were a little fuller but she was far from fat. It was a better look for her. She had never regained much weight after her coma and sometimes he was afraid he would break her.

Ren frowned and sighed. She knew that he had a point. She was pregnant and putting on weight was part of that. She looked up to see his eyes on her. Their eyes met, blue-green on white, and her heart sped up. She felt a kick and a small smile formed on her lips. Gaara was confused by the sudden change. "Gaara," She said as she reached out grabbed his hand. She placed it on her belly and grinned. "She's moving again."

Gaara smiled too. "Yes he is," Gaara teased. Without a thought he was on his knees with his ear pressed against her belly. "Hello little one," he said as he rubbed the spot the baby continued to kick.

"She," Ren stated.

"He," Gaara replied with a chuckle.

"Maybe we should just find out next ultrasound," Ren muttered.

"I thought you didn't want to," Gaara said before kissing her belly and standing up.

"I didn't but not knowing is killing me," Ren admitted.

"Then we'll find out," Gaara said with a nod. "Let's get you home so dad can remind mom that she's beautiful," He spoke to her belly as he took her hand.

"And how are you going to do that," Ren asked as they started walking back to the mansion.

"You'll see," he replied with a slight smirk on his face. He was going to go all out. They would have a romantic lunch and he would give her a full body massage. The idea of her being naked letting him rub his hands against her suddenly made his pants feel a little too tight. He really hoped it would lead to love making but if it didn't that was fine too. She needed to know he found her beautiful and loved her.

XXXXXXXX

Ren sat in front of three boxes in the living room. They had arrived early that morning and she was so excited. They came from Konoha and, according to the letter that was with it, contained pictures, letters, and a few of Neji's things. Ren couldn't bring herself to open them. She was excited but scared to know more about her deceased brother. It was like opening that box meant she accepted that she'd never know him. She still hadn't come to terms with it and didn't think she ever would. "Are you going to open them," Gaara asked as he placed his hands on her shoulders. He was standing behind her looking over the top of her head at the boxes.

"I don't know if I can," Ren admitted, "It's not something I'm sure I can face."

"I'm here with you. We'll go through this together. It will be good for you to see. It will help you to know him even though you never met him. It will help you move past the fact that you had a brother you didn't know," Gaara said gently.

"You're right," Ren said with a nod. She bit her lip then handed him a kunai. "Do you think you could cut them open and look through them with me? I don't want to do this alone," Ren whispered.

Gaara stared at the kunai in her hand. "You were going to open it with that," He asked. She stared at him with annoyance in her white eyes. He internally sighed. "Of course I'll open it for you," Gaara said as he took the kunai from her. He sat beside her and pulled the smallest box closer to him. In one swift movement he cut the tape and opened the box's flaps. It felt a little abusive to the sharp throwing knife. "There," he told her with a nod.

Ren had been holding her breath while she watched Gaara open the box. She exhaled slowly and reached inside. She pulled out a stack of photographs. The first picture on the stack had several people in it. She could recognize some of the faces. One was a young Naruto. Another was Sakura. They were standing next to an older male with spiky silver hair with his face covered except for one black orb. "That's the new hokage, Hatake Kakashi," Gaara said as he pointed to the man. With them stood Sasuke. Next to them was Ino, Shikamaru, Choji, and an older man with black hair. "That was Sarutobi Asuma. He died fighting an Akatsuki," Gaara informer her. He was quite handsome, Ren had to admit. Beside that team was Hinata, a boy with black hair and dark glasses whose coat hid most of his face, a brunette male with red markings on his cheeks, and a woman with red eyes and shoulder length dark hair. "Aburame Shino, Inuzuka Kiba, and Yuhi Kurenai. They were Hinata's genin teammates and sensei. Kurenai has a daughter, Sarutobi Mirai."

The last group included Lee and an older man who looked almost exactly like Lee. With them was a brunette female who wore her hair in buns and a male who looked a lot like herself. His hair was a little lighter than her own dark raven hair but his eyes were identical to hers, white with a silver tint. Ren took a deep breath and looked at Gaara. "That's Neji," Ren asked pointing to the boy. Gaara nodded and Ren smiled weakly. "We look so alike," She muttered. No wonder Hanabi was so excited to see her. They could've been twins.

Ren and Gaara looked through the photos in silence until they came to one where her brother was glaring at the person behind the camera. "He had an attitude about him," Gaara told her, "He was very confident in his own abilities and sometimes, at least for a while, it made him seem cruel. Naruto and Hinata changed his views as well."

"He was very handsome. Glaring doesn't suit him," Ren said softly as she frowned.

"No it didn't. He was very stoic though, much like your uncle. Hyuga's are very good at hiding any and all emotions," Gaara mentioned.

"I guess I'm not a very good Hyuga anymore," Ren murmured.

"You used to be very good at it," Gaara commented.

Ren nodded. "You're right. I'm glad that Momoko taught me how to show what I feel. Kaasan always told me it's okay as long as I could keep it under wraps on missions. I had a hard time separating the two though. Maybe he did too," Ren said quietly.

"Perhaps," Gaara said. He picked up a letter from another box and handed it to Ren. "Read this one," he told her. Ren opened the letter and took a deep breath before reading it.

Dear Sabaku Ren,

My name is TenTen. I'm sure Lee has told you I was on Team Gai with both Lee and your cousin, Neji. I was shocked to find out he had another cousin. It's such a shame that you two will never know each other. My heart goes out to you for that. I hope someday to get to meet you. Hyuga Hanabi says you look so much like Neji it's amazing. I'd like to see for myself. Lee, Neji, and I didn't always get along but we were good friends. Neji was my rock when Lee and Gai-sensei started to go overboard. You've met Lee, I'm sure you can understand. He wasn't one for smiling and jokes but he was still good company. We all understood each other and that made our friendship and comradery strong. Neji was always there for us, through good and bad times. He was a good friend to us all and a good cousin to Hinata and Hanabi after the chunin exams. There are so many stories I could tell but writing them out on paper doesn't feel the same. I'd really like to meet you. I was told that you're expecting a baby but I was hoping that you'd be coming to Konohagakure sometime. I'm not sure I'll get the chance to go to Sunagakure. One way or another, I'd love to meet you and share my stories then. I hope to hear from you soon.

Sincerely,

TenTen

Ren looked at Gaara with tears forming in her eyes. "She wants to meet me," She croaked out. She cleared her throat and Gaara wrapped his arms around her. "She wants to meet me and know me. I'd like to meet her, to meet them all." She looked down at her belly with tears clouding her vision. "Please be a little girl so we can go on vacation," she internally begged the baby.

XXXXXXXX

"I really wish you wouldn't be so hard headed about Temari marrying Shikamaru," Ren muttered as she sat on an exam table. She was here for her six-month ultrasound and they had decided to find out gender. She was trying to distract herself from her nervousness. She wanted to know but just wasn't sure she truly did. Once they knew that it would all be so real. The baby would have its name. She had cried when the baby first moved because it made it all the more real. It was scary but exciting. She really didn't want to think about it right now so she would try to help Temari instead. Gaara still wasn't willing to give her permission and she was actually talking about deflecting. That would not bode well.

"He is lazy, puts down women, and has nothing to offer her," Gaara muttered. He did not want to be having this conversation. He was too excited to know if they were having a boy or girl to want to be bothered by this. It kept coming up in just about every conversation he had with Ren, Temari, Kankuro, and Baki. It was growing old.

"Nothing to offer her? What does that mean," Ren asked with a frown. She was getting annoyed. She had met Shikamaru. Yes he was lazy and seemed to always be bored, yes he had complained about women countless times, and yes he had acted like he was smarter than everyone. The truth is he's the smartest person she'd ever met. Saying he had nothing to offer Temari was a boldfaced lie though.

"He wouldn't make a good husband for her. When things go wrong what will she do? Getting back to Sunagakure would be nearly impossible," Gaara answered.

"How do you know that? He has as much to offer her as she does him. Temari's a hard woman to deal with. I know it, you know it, and she knows it. He knows it too. He's willing to let her be 'troublesome' to him. He loves her, Gaara. They love each other so much. How can you try to deny them love? If I had been born in Konohagakure would you not do everything to be with me? To have me in Suna?"

Gaara looked disinterested. "If you had been born in Konoha I would not even know you," He muttered.

Ren's heart clinched and she had to look away. Did that mean he would love someone else instead? Ren couldn't imagine loving anyone but Gaara. She inhaled a sharp breath but that didn't help with her emotions. She glanced down at her belly. Did he really love her? He just practically said he wouldn't have fought to have her with him. What else was she supposed to think?

Gaara stared at her and immediately realized his mistake. She was upset. What had started out as talking about Shikamaru and Temari had turned into a discussion about them. "I would," he said quietly, "I would do everything I could to have you with me always. A life without you would be dull in comparison." It was the truth.

Ren wiped the tears that had formed in her eyes and stared at him. His face seemed sincere but she was still having doubts. "But you wouldn't know me," She whispered.

"Fate has made it so that I do know you. Kami would do the same had you been born elsewhere," Gaara replied.

A small smile twitched at the right corner of Ren's lips. She didn't want to give in yet. Her feelings were still hurt but how could she be mad at him? She loved him so much. "I love you," she murmured.

"I love you as well," He said as he stood from his seat. He wrapped his arms around her and she rested her head on his chest. "I will allow Temari to marry Nara Shikamaru," he muttered defeated.

"She'll always be your sister. She just needs to be able to live her own life and find her own happiness," Ren spoke quietly.

"Like your mother?"

"Like my mother," Ren agreed.

The nurse came in and smiled. "Konichiwa Kazekage-sama," she said with a bow to Gaara then she did the same to Ren, "Konichiwa Sabaku-sama. How are you feeling today?"

"Fine," Ren replied. Gaara released her and sat back in the chair by her side.

The nurse had Ren lay back and raise her top. Ren did as instructed and it didn't take long for the nurse to have images of the baby up on a monitor. "Baby Sabaku seems to be growing quite well. Were you wanting to know gender yet," She asked calmly.

Ren looked at Gaara. She suddenly wasn't sure. "Yes," Gaara answered for her. The look of horror that washed over Ren's face worried Gaara but it was too late to go back now.

"Alright then, let's see if we have a prince or princess in there," the nurse cooed.

XXXXXXXX

"You win so here I am," Ren said with a blush. She was standing naked in their bedroom. They were having a little boy. Ren had almost cried as she saw her vacation fly out the window but when she saw the pride on Gaara's face she couldn't help but be happy too. She hadn't cared as long as the baby was healthy but she didn't like to lose. She had been so sure they were having a little girl.

Gaara had just come in the door from telling Temari he agreed to her marriage and wasn't expecting to find his wife standing there with nothing on. Her hair was pulled up into a bun on the back of her head, exposing her slender neck to him. The curves of her body were a sight to behold. His body stiffened and he was hit with a flood of raw desire. He was frozen in place. He could only watch as she walked up to him. "This is a nice surprise," he murmured.

Ren blushed and stared at the ground until she was only a few inches from him. Sure they had been married for almost four months, together for six… but being so exposed before him was embarrassing. He knew every inch of her body and she knew every inch of his but that did little to bring her comfort at that moment. She lifted her head to stare into his blue-green eyes and bit her lip. Her body was hot, which sadly her nipples showed due to their erect state, and that was why she was naked before him. They had had sex more times than she could count but she still always wanted more of him. The feelings he sent through her were intoxicating. She felt complete while they made love.

Without a word Ren's hands found their way to his broad chest. Their eyes remained locked until he felt her pull one of the straps from his red jacket free of its buckle. His eyes darted down to see her pulling the second then the third. His breath hitched in his throat when she slipped her hands beneath his jacket and pushed it open. His eyes closed half way and he leaned down to kiss her tenderly. She returned the kiss and moved his jacket down from his arms. He could feel her fingertips brushing against the fabric of his black turtleneck shirt. His jacket fell to the floor with a light noise left ignored.

His hands found their way to her cheeks and he licked her lips to ask entry into her mouth. She stuck her own tongue out to lick his and then parted her lips. His tongues entry was swift and his strokes slow. Ren slipped her fingers under the hem of his shirt and slid up his abs to his chest slowly. She had raised his shirt up with her arms as she went and his upper body was mostly exposed to the cool air-conditioned room. He shivered slightly and leaned back, a small trail of saliva connecting them until it broke. She pulled the shirt up and he raised his arms above his head to allow her to pull it off completely. The cool air was soon forgotten when Ren pressed her nude body against him and nibbled on his right shoulder. He leaned his head back and groaned low in his throat. It stung but then she would circle the bite with her tongue and it made his head fuzzy.

Her bites became kisses as she trailed from his shoulder down his chest and then to his abs. His breath hitched in his throat when she sucked the skin just above the button of his pants. He unconsciously leaned back against the cold wooden door and watched her through half-lidded eyes. He shivered slightly and felt his erection twitch against his pants. He nearly blushed. Sex was something they did almost nightly, this was a different story. This was rare and still awkward for them both. He bit the inside of his cheek when her teeth grabbed the fabric of his pants and pulled, popping it free of the button.

There was something hypnotic about watching his pregnant wife on her knees pulling his pants down. He once again was thankful he never wore underwear. There had been a time when he had but that ended when he hit puberty hard and his dreams about this very woman ruined countless pairs of boxers. He was drawn from his thoughts when he felt a hot wet tongue brush against the tip of his erection, circling around the hole there. His member twitched and he groaned. It was just so sensitive and felt so good.

He closed his eyes and missed the small smile that formed on Ren's lips. She couldn't help it, bringing him pleasure was an ego-booster. She had been mad at him until she found out they were having a boy. All that anger was erased and all that was left was love. Love for this man and the desire to show him exactly how much. She opened her mouth and let her lips encircle the head of his erection. She pushed as much of it as she could into her mouth, letting her teeth lightly graze against the sensitive skin.

Gaara grunted a little and one of his hands grabbed the ribbon holding her hair up in its bun. Her hair cascaded down her back like a waterfall of raven silk. She started sucking on his erection and he gasped. He wasn't prepared for it even though he knew it was coming. He watched as she slid her mouth up and down as much of his member as she could fit in her mouth, sucking on the way out and brushing her teeth against him on the way back in. Her tongue continued to brush against his member and he couldn't contain the moan that formed low in his chest. She was slowly working him to the edge and he wasn't ready to fall over yet.

Gaara grabbed a clump of her hair and held her head still while he caught his breath. "Enough," he groaned between pants. He wasn't going to let her work him up and over without doing a damn thing for her. He watched as she released him and he in turn released her hair. She opened her mouth to say something but he didn't give her time before he was scooping her up bridal style and carrying her to their bed. "My turn," he said with a hint of mischief in his stoic voice.

Ren's eyes widened as she watched him from on her back. She was propped up with her elbows simply so she could breathe without feeling like she wasn't getting enough air. Their son was already grown enough to push her organs against each other more than they normally were and that made breathing while being on her back more difficult. He crawled onto the bed beside her and gripped one of her voluptuous breasts and kneaded it gently. She opened her mouth and breathed out hard. The touch sent waves of heat through her body to her core. His lips latched onto her other erect nipple and she whimpered with pleasure. He wasn't sucking, he knew better than to do that because she was in the process of producing breast milk, bit instead he rolled it between his teeth.

Ren's head dropped back and she arched her body up into his. He released both her breasts and kissed down her body. When he got down to her stomach he whispered, "Don't ruin the mood for mommy this time." He was referring to the last time they had been trying to make love. The boy was moving around so much that Ren couldn't focus and when Gaara accidently placed his hand on her belly and felt the baby kicking he lost the moment too. He didn't want that again. Ren stiffened and he looked up into her eyes. "I don't want to have to stop again, not until you feel your best," he told her passively.

"S-same here," Ren whispered. Gaara kissed her belly a few times then worked his way down to her thighs. He forced them apart though Ren didn't resist and settled himself between her legs. Her face was red and she stiffened again as he kissed the inside of her right thigh. He kissed up it and then stopped when he reached a mound of dark hair. He smirked and turned to repeat the process on her left thigh. She was moaning by the time he finally used his fingers to open the folds of her core. He stared at the soft pink flesh and inhaled deeply despite how perverted that made him feel. He reached out with his tongue and darted it against her entrance hole.

Ren's fingers gripped the sheets beside her and she had to bite her lip. The flicking motion against that sensitive tissue was sending wave upon wave of pleasure through her body. He pressed his tongue flat against her and dragged his tongue up to the hard ball of nerves at the top. He bit down on it gently then flicked his tongue against it. Her legs jolted as they twitched with pleasure. "Ooohhhh Gaaraaaaa," Ren moaned out. He loved when she moaned his name. He stopped the rapid movements with his tongue before sucking on it. She moaned out again and whimpered softly, "Kuso. Don't tease me anymore."

He smirked when he parted from her lower lips and sat up. She was so beautiful and he knew she would be wet enough to let him fill her. The current problem was the position. Ren had been getting winded when she was on her back. He crawled up beside her and she rolled onto her side so that her back was pressed against his chest. They were so in sync it nearly frightened him. He hooked his forearm around her thigh at the same time she raised it. He kissed her neck as he pushed himself inside her, penetrating her tight, moist core.

It was his turn to bite. He bit her shoulder lightly and groaned as she moaned. She was clamping his member so tight he nearly spilled himself right then and there. It took everything in him to remind himself he needed to go slow and be gentle. His thrusts were too slow and too gentle for Ren after only a few of them. She turned her head to look at him and rocked her body against his. Their lips were only an inch apart but they didn't meet. They were both too busy panting with pleasure. It felt amazing when Gaara thrust into her rougher. Their breaths mixed and mingled in the air. Finally Gaara leaned down and kissed her deeply. She could taste herself on his tongue but didn't care as much as she thought she would. There was some pleasure in knowing that she was the last thing Gaara had 'ate'.

While his tongue dominated her mouth his hand left her thigh to rub her clit. She moaned into his mouth and twitched as he circled the hardened bud with his calloused fingertip. Her walls clinched around him and she couldn't hold back. Her orgasm took over and her body trembled uncontrollably. The sudden clinching was more than he could take. It was like her walls were trying to keep him in or push him out, he couldn't decide which. He was pushed over the edge and spilled his seed into her. The warmth of it shot heat throughout Ren's body. They both relaxed, staying in the same position and laid there. Gaara wrapped his arms around his wife and they remained in that position for a while. Gaara could definitely get used to his wife surprising him like that. It really was fun. He buried his face into her hair and inhaled her scent. Lavender and apple blossoms. He loved it.

XXXXXXXX

Ren walked through the streets of Suna with a bento box wrapped in a white cloth in tow. Her mother had left two months ago and she was still having a hard time adjusting. Life felt a lot more lonesome without her mom.

"I'll see you soon," Naoma told Ren with a sad smile. Ren was already crying in her arms. "Baby, the wedding is in six months and you'll see me then. It won't feel like very long at all, you'll see."

Ren took a deep breath to try to remember Naoma's scent. Jasmine and green tea, the same as always. She lifted her head from her mother's shoulder and whispered, "I'll miss you so much. Please take care of yourself. Write to me often. It's going to be empty without you here."

Naoma smiled and rubbed Ren's seven month baby bump. "You'll soon have your little boy to fill the gap. I can't wait to meet him. You'll bring him with you to the wedding and I'll meet him then. It'll be okay, Ren," Naoma said gently.

Watching her mother leave with Hyuga Hiashi, Rock Lee, and Harano Sakura had been more difficult than she ever imagined. Her mother had left right after her 21st birthday and that didn't make it any easier. There were so many fears that Ren was facing the closer to her due date things got. She had three weeks until it and she didn't have a clue what to do. Her hospital bag was already packed, the crib set up, clothes and essentials bought, the only thing to do was wait on the baby boy and hope she knew what she was doing. She wished she had her mother with her. Life would be much less stressful if she did.

Naoma's leaving had sent Ren into a depression that she was still slightly feeling. Gaara had helped more than he knew but she still felt like she had a dark cloud hanging over her head, blocking some of the light. She had started making it a point to take lunch to all three of the sand siblings just to fill the gap. She hated being alone and Gaara wouldn't let her work in the office with her due date rapidly approaching. Kankuro and Gaara were easy to reach, both were in the Kazekage's office. Temari was a little bit more work today. She was on patrol duty.

Ren waddled through the streets nodding and saying, "Ohayo," to everyone she passed. She wore a smile on her face and could hear some of the things said as she passed by. Some told each other that she looked like she was going to pop, some mentioned that she looked very pretty and that Gaara was a lucky man, and others made comments about how good it was to see her up and around.

It took Ren about 30 minutes to reach the oasis she always met Temari in. It was a small pool of cool water with bushes and a lone palm tree around it. The water was as clear as glass and deep enough to stay cool to the touch. This was Temari and Shikamaru's special place and Ren had cried when Temari first brought her here. It became her secret to keep for her best friend and she did so willingly.

"Hey Tem," Ren called out to the blond wind mistress.

Temari was already in gear and stretching her arms above her head. She twisted around to face Ren with a big smile on her face. "Ren! How ya doing, Short Stuff? And how's the baby? You aren't over doing it are you," Temari bombarded Ren.

"We're both fine. Lee-sensei says it's best to get some exercise while carrying, so I walk. I have to stay limber somehow. I brought your lunch," Ren said as she handed the cloth wrapped box to Temari.

"Thanks. You really spoil me you know that," Temari asked with a lopsided smirk.

"That's what I'm here for. It gives me something to do and I'm more than happy to do it. Be safe on your patrols okay?"

"I'm always safe, don't worry about it. You be safe on the way back. It's a hell of a walk for you to be making. I'll stick around tomorrow so I can just grab my box on the way out so you don't have to head out here. It's a really long walk for someone with a belly that big," Temari teased.

Ren huffed and stuck her nose in the air while trying to fight a smile. "I know that I have a big belly but it's better than having a big butt." Ren stuck her tongue out.

"You do have a big butt," Temari chuckled.

Ren twisted to look at her bottom. "It's not small but it's a nice one," Ren pouted.

Temari was practically doubled over laughing. Ren's eyebrows had furrowed and she stuck her bottom lip out. It was just too much for Temari. "You look great. Some women look awful pregnant. You aren't one of them."

"Thank you," Ren said with a grin, her pouting forgotten, "I'll let you get going. I'll see you tonight."

"See you," Temari replied.

The two of them headed separate ways. Ren had walked for about 10 minutes when she felt a sharp achy pain at her belly button. She stopped walking and the pain stopped too. "Oh great," Ren muttered. She had been having false labor symptoms for the past three days and now it was starting again. She took a deep breath and walked even slower to avoid the pains.

Ren was just over half way to Sunagakure's gates when she felt someone watching her. She considered looking around but just kept walking instead. She pushed chakra to her eyes, making the veins swell with it as she used her byakugan. She could see a figure behind her, apparently male judging by the shoulders. She frowned and tried to walk faster but the false labor pains began again. She deactivated her kekkei genkai and tried to calm her racing heart. It could be any ninja from Suna heading back, maybe she would have some company. That sounded nice and that was enough to comfort her heart to return to a more normal pace.

Ren froze when the man appeared in front of her. She wasn't sure how much time she had spent trying to calm herself but there he was. He was dressed in all black and nothing was visible. His hair was covered by a hood and his face by a lizard ANBU mask. The mask had two green stripes down the center and brown eyes were the only visible feature. "Hello Hyogo Ren," the male said with a muffled voice. She couldn't recognize it.

"Who are you," She asked as she grabbed her white fan from her hip. The mask indicated that he should be from Suna but the vibe she was getting off of him was not friendly.

"Easy," He said as he held his hands up, "I'm from Suna the same as you are."

He took a step closer while keeping his hands in the air. Ren wasn't sure what to do. A Sand ANBU should've just kept going or offered assistance by now. What was he up to? "What do you want with me," She asked without putting away her fan. She needed to be ready to attack.

He was only a few feet from her when he stopped. "It's complicated you see," he told her, "Sorry for this, it's for the greater good." In a swift moment he pulled out a senbon and threw it. Ren didn't even have her fan open when it hit her neck. She weakly slashed her white fan across her body, sending a blade of wind towards the masked man. He was able to dodge it with ease.

Her head felt strange and she knew the needle was poisoned. She pulled it from her skin and threw it on the ground. Everything started to go black and she fell back onto the hot sand. Her fan slipped from her hand and she blinked. "-ab her and let's g-" a female voice said from Ren's left.

"I -an't carry he-, you'll ha-," a new male voice said from her right.

"Fin-... guys... tim-" the masked man said. His voice was fading in and out. Ren had to stay awake. She couldn't let them hurt her, hurt her baby. She had to get up. She couldn't. Everything went black.

XXXXXXXX

Ren Note 2: Do you ever start writing about a character... then can't stand to read other fan fictions with that character in it? Like... You know the stories would be good... but it's not the same pairing and that's a turn off? I'm suffering from that with Gaara! He's not with Ren and I don't feel like reading about him with Sakura -.- Ew. xD I'm terrible! Who do we think has poisoned Ren? and what do they want? Any of you have any ideas? I can't wait to write the next chapter to show you all but with the length of these chapters that takes time. I'd appreciate any reviews! I love you guys.