Kill me part 2
A/N: Hey there, I managed to write another chapter, even with all the exams and tons of homework I have! Geez, I'm sick and tired of school... Anyway, I was very glad to see that you guys enjoyed my previous chapter, I was somehow proud when I saw the review from TaeMint, because I knew her! And I was like...'Wait, I think I've also read one story form her, long time ago.' And I was right, I knew her as an author. It feels nice to get reviews from people you already know. Also, I got a review from anon, and even if it was an anonymous review, I still wish to thank her for reading my story and taking the time to give me some feedback on it.
But most of all, I want to thank 6strangeDOLL9, she is my most fidel reader/reviewer, I always count on her. It's somehow that, if she doesn't like it, it means there's something wrong. And I know this is crazy, putting all my trust in one person's review, but really now, she's the only one that actually tells me what she likes best in my story! So, if you submit any more reviews, make them constructive. A simple 'I love/like it' will make me happy, but I won't know what exactly captivated you most. The plot, the funny parts, the love scenes? Consider that, and next time you review, tell me what you liked best! Now, read the chapter, sorry for the monster A/N. :D
(Sasori POV)
I don't even know why I was allowing this guy to inspect my house like that. I was very suspicious. And I still don't know what Itachi is doing here... Wait, scratch that. I don't know what either of them is doing here.
Itachi was right behind me, wherever I was going. Wherever I was following Naruto, actually.
"Oh, found it!" Naruto shouted, signaling me to come. Really, this guy is getting on my nerves already. Who does he think he is to order me around in my own house, especially since he came here out of the blue, without saying a thing or explaining what he wants!
But, as unexpected as it was, Itachi rushed in front of me, grabbing Naruto's shirt collar and pushing him to a wall. Okay, I don't want to be on the receiving end of that iron grip ever.
Again, something unexpected happened; Itachi placed his right foot on Naruto's left one as his left hand took the blonde's ones, pinning them above his head. I really wanted to laugh and yell al him 'What a hell of a position you chose!' but I was rendered speechless by his next words: "My time to play, Naruto. And you're not going to like it."
"My, my. You figured it out faster than I planned you to. Good job, you're sharp."
"Wanna see how sharp also is the knife I'll place between your ribs?" That's scary. Period.
"No thanks, save it for later. Help me to that secret room in Sasori's bedroom instead."
"You're lucky you're useful to us. What a jerk you are, to hide something important like that… And you simply evaporated! We didn't even know how to find you, were you too lazy to give us your name?" Okay, what in Kami's name was that? What are they talking about, again?
"I never said I wanted you to know who I was, now did I? That's why I stayed anonymous. Oh, and my 'mysterious' disappearance was not mysterious in the least. Maybe I should inform you that all your communication systems are bugged? That's why."
"And you're telling me now?"
"Apparently. I couldn't get a flight earlier without rising suspicions. And really, learning new languages is a bitch. I'm fucking polyglot already."
"You've been all this time in Japan? Well, that's not so bad news, right?"
"It is bad news. I almost got spotted, and Japanese sucks. Out of all languages, I hate it the most, maybe after Chinese, which is impossible, if you ask me. No offence, Sasori."
I would've normally had a comeback line, or a comeback fist, but well… I was too confused to realize what was going on. ME, Mr. Smartass, was absolutely clueless to what they were talking about. Maybe I do have a slight idea, but I am probably way too amazed to believe it, it sounds so impossible!
"So, what are you two talking about? I want to know for sure."
"Oh, sorry, Sasori," Naruto started. "Maybe I should introduce myself once again. I am Uzumaki Naruto, aka Kyū."
At that, my eyes popped and I slapped him. I could've sworn I saw a smile pass his lips as I slapped him.
"Geez, Sasori, I knew you were a fag, but that was a bitchslap, dude!"
"You preferred a punch?" Itachi asked, still pissed.
"Better than a bitchslap!"
"Here you are," Itachi answered, punching him in the jaw. I heard Naruto scream
lightly. "I didn't hear you. Louder." Another punch, this one in the stomach, and another half-groan half-scream from Naruto, although it was louder than last time. "I'm not sure the neighbors heard that, Naruto. Can't you shout any louder? Try your best, this time."
…And he kicked him in the balls. Ouch, that must have hurt like living hell! Thank Kami Itachi didn't put all his force in the kick… Indeed, a super-scream followed. Poor guy; but he deserved it.
"Asshole, w-why did you d-do that? Do you have a-any idea how m-much it HURTS! D-damn…" Naruto asked in a choked voice.
"That was the price you pay for 'playing' with us. Now we forgive you."
"Are you a fuckin' sadist or wh-what?"
"As a matter of fact, yes, I am. Problem?"
"Don't do it again."
"Beg me."
"NO."
"Fine, then I will do it again."
"Ok, fuck it. Please?"
"That's better. Though, you could've been more expressive."
"More expressive my ass, I feel like I've been shot. I can't be more expressive, you idiot."
"I'll let it pass this time. Now, back to business."
"What do you mean with 'back to business'?" I asked, genuinely curious.
"Didn't you hear Naruto ask me about the secret room in your closet?"
"Aw, that? Lead the way, then. You know where it is."
"Yes, I do." Itachi entered my bedroom and opened the closet door after switching on the lights. He lifted a bag from its hanger and entered the code in the little electronic lock. He has great memory, wow. Even I forget it sometimes.
It clicked, and the door opened slightly. The lights were on sensors, so the little 'secret room' was lighted the second Itachi stepped in. Looking at the room and the lock, it all reminded me of the time when Itachi asked how I had the money for all this? Easy, my family was filthy rich.
Itachi hasn't been here in the past 5 months, but he acts like he's at his own home. He remembered where everything was. The computer that was hidden in the wooden wall appeared the moment he pulled the handle of a small door. At first, I wanted to make it appear when I pushed a button or something like that, but I ran out of money. Too bad…
"So," Itachi started in a low voice. "Naruto, what do you have?"
"First of all," Naruto clicked on 'maps', and the eastern U.S., "I got potential places where we could retreat safely, in case we fuck up big time. First, there is Philadelphia. Sumiyoshi-kai has some rivals slash enemies there, and from what I've picked up, they're not too eager to confront them. Also, there is Boston; I tried to look up some locations in the same range, so it's easier to get there in time. In Boston, though I'd recommend that we only go as the last resort. They have just retreated from there because the police noticed them, and they found no reason to stand out even more. But, seeing as they are the Yakuza, if they want to eliminate us, they can, even if it's Boston and they're being watched."
"So, Philadelphia it is." I said, looking at the screen. I liked the idea of Philadelphia; there are a lot of human places to stay. Not like Stamford, in Connecticut, and the fucking bunker. I just hope we solve everything as fast as possible."
"We should… pack our lives, Sasori." Itachi told me, in a stern yet sad voice. "Nothing ever goes as planned. Who knows, maybe we'll be away from home for more than one year. This takes time if we want it done properly."
One year? Damn, that sounds like a lot of time. It's the first time we have to do with something as important as this, I remember Pein saying 'In Akatsuki, you don't have a life of your own. You have a mission. The mission is your life.'
"What do we do with Sasuke?" I asked, curious of his answer. He can't take Sasuke everywhere, but danger is everywhere. In Denver he's in danger, in Connecticut he's in danger as well.
"Itachi, we have to take him with us. I'll stay with him, or guard him. But don't tell him who I really am. Make it someway that he persuades me to come. That, or even better, you ask me to come. You're smart, invent something."
"You don't want him to know about your affiliation to Akatsuki? You want to leave with him, in case things get too serious?"
"Yes, that was my idea. Is it okay with you?"
"It is, thank you. It means a lot to me."
"I'm not doing it for you. He's my friend also, remember?"
"Yes, I know. But it still means a lot to me. I want to know him safe, whatever it takes. I couldn't live with myself knowing that his life is on the line."
"Oh, about that… When I came to your house one hour ago, what on Earth was that alluring look you kept on giving Sasuke? And don't deny it!"
"Sasuke told me you advised him that he'd get raped."
"Oh, sorry about that, first impression. You really scared me for one second, I even started rambling in German because of fear!"
"Don't worry. I'd never do something that he doesn't want me to-"
"Thank God for that…"
"… It was all consensual."
"I see- Wait, what? What was consensual?"
"You can figure out that much yourself, don't you think?"
"You mean… I thought Sasuke was right and I was being paranoid, but this? Holy shit, how can you do something like that?"
"Don't judge us. You really don't know the whole story, so you don't have any right to."
"You talk like it's something usual to fuck your own brother."
"It's probably very unusual, but… it just happened."
"It just happened? Like in, you were eating dinner one minute, and the other, your cock's in his ass? Whoa, how random is that!"
"You know I didn't mean it that way. And please drop the subject, okay? Ask Sasuke if you really want details."
"Fine, where were we, then?"
"Philadelphia, I believe."
"Oh, yeah right. When did you plan on leaving to Connecticut, in fact?"
"In two weeks, why?" Itachi answered mechanically.
"Oh, no no no. We're leaving in one week at most. Those guys aren't planning on staying too much there, so we have to be fast."
"Easy for you to say," I answered annoyed. "We don't even have a strategy yet. And we need equipment; we can't take guns. All the Yakuza clans are famous for silent killing. We've gotta go with katanas as well."
"Oh, and what about it? You're Japanese, so it's only right that you have one, Itachi has one, I know that much, and the others should be able to procure some. They're swords, not TNT or MK 62 atomics."
"We'll take all sorts of knives and daggers," Itachi added. "We are all skilled with those. Even Sasuke has his own pocket dagger, and I taught him how to use it."
"What do you mean 'pocket dagger'? These things are usually pretty big, how does a small version look like?"
Now that he brought that up, I was curious as well. I never had a chance to look at Itachi's properly. I knew it was the size of a Swiss knife, only with a double, extra-sharp blade.
Itachi shrugged, and then nodded and bent to his short boots (He somehow only wore short boots or skater shoes when he had to walk a lot. But usually, no matter if it was winter or summer, Itachi wore short boots, saying that they matched all of his jeans.)
As I expected, he took a black, polished mini-dagger from the side of the boot. It's the best place to hide a knife, really. It may be a common thing already, but Itachi never was one for modern things, like keeping the knife in some hidden pocket, or in the sleeve. He was always the old dog with old tricks, and they always worked.
The dagger had some letters on it, and they were Japanese, only miniature, and I couldn't see. Miniature kanji is impossible to read…
"What does it write there, Itachi?"
"You forgot your own language, Sasori? It says 'Yubu no Aragami'."
"Tempestuous God of Valor? It's funny, to have Susano'o written on a knife. It suits you, you know? You're deadly when you use it."
"I wonder how I remembered the name."
"What, you didn't read it?"
"First of all, I can't read Kanji all that well, and second, I have bad eyesight, if you couldn't see it, how do you expect me to?"
"You should get glasses. Or contacts."
"I don't have the money. And until I'm not blind, I'll manage somehow."
"Blind? Is it that bad?"
"No, it's not. I can see just fine right now, for example. I just have my moments, when my vision blurs. Now, forget about me. When do we leave?"
"Today's Sunday. Maybe… Hey, Itachi, why don't you pick a day? You are the second in hierarchy after Pein, not me."
"I don't like to command people around. But, fine. We'll go Monday. Next Monday."
"Itachi, can I borrow your knife dagger-thingy?" Nice try, Naruto. Too bad Itachi's extremely possessive with his belongings. I doubt he'd even give it to me!
"No, I don't give it to anyone. It's a gift from my father. So is Sasuke's."
"How does Sasuke's look like?"
"It's got a navy blue design, and it has a miniature Kanji for 'Busshitsukai to Hikari'."
"Meaning, 'Illuminating Heaven'," I translated to Naruto.
"I knew that, I'm a genius, remember?" he scoffed at me.
"Actually, nobody knows you're a genius. Last time I checked, you were playing idiot." Itachi smirked at him.
"That's only my coverage! It doesn't mean I'm genuinely an idiot!"
"The fact you pretend to be an idiot doesn't guarantee you're a genius otherwise."
"I am a genius, you just don't want to admit it!"
"Oh, I've had enough of your rambling!" I shouted at them. "Let's do something more entertaining!"
"Sasori, we aren't 5, we don't do entertaining things." Itachi snapped. It looks like he can't wait to get home faster. Not gonna happen.
"Well, we can let Naruto know of your… cross-dressing skills, Itachi. Isn't that a good form of entertainment?"
"NO."
"Yes, yes, yes!" Guess who was that. "Itachi actually does cross-dress?"
"Not that he likes it, but most missions require it. Even I've done it a couple times."
"Why would the mission require it?"
"Because a woman looks more vulnerable, and it's less predictable. And we don't have enough women in Akatsuki. Only one…"
"Oh, okay. Itachi, pleeease! I WANT TO SEE! MAKE ME HAPPY, PWEASE?"
"Just shut up, I can't stand the 'other' you."
"Then do it," I continued. "I still have that yellow yukata. I also have the red one. Which do you prefer?"
"I didn't say I was doing it." He argued.
"Why do you try to resist when you know that, in the end, you'll be doing it?"
"Red. I'm too tired to argue with you two. But at least don't laugh, or I'll beat you to a pulp, okay?"
"Promise. I'll go get it, then."
Naruto was euphoric already; I bet he only wants to see Itachi like this so he can rub it in his face when they're with Sasuke.
I went to the closet, meaning: I got out of the secret room, in the closet. I took the red yukata, remembering the time I had to use it. It was too long for me, and I had to hold it when walking, but that meant it would fit Itachi perfectly, seeing as he's taller than me. I also took a pair of getas, some special socks, an obi and some senbon needles. I kept the senbon in the sleeves all the time, but Itachi liked to use them 'traditionally': he tied his hair with them.
This was going to be fun… I had an evil plan. Tee hee, Itachi's gonna have a surprise. I went back to Naruto and Itachi, and handed him the red yukata. He had a frown on his face; he clearly didn't want to do this. But when he saw the other things in my hands, his face looked so helpless, he almost looked like he was pouting. Almost.
"What? Even getas? And the socks?"
"If you do something, do it right, ne?"
"Here I go…"
He took off his boots and the shirt followed. I was really happy Itachi never had a problem showing his body in public. I was about to take my phone out and photograph him; this was a rare view, after all, when Naruto yelled "GET OUT! I've got no intention in seeing you butt naked! OUT!" I almost whined. Why does that idiot have to ruing my fun? Geez…
Picking up his yukata and the others, Itachi left the room and I saw how he switched the lights in the closet. I remembered I had a mirror in there. That meant he'd look perfect when he came out. I've only seen him dressed as a woman 2 times, and I couldn't wait to see him again. First time I saw him, he was in a short Mexican dress that showed off his thin legs. He also had a sophisticated hairdo, since he had long hair, bracelets, the whole thing.
The second time, he was in a female kimono, not quite yukata, since it didn't have the obi. He was devastated that time, because Leader suggested that he wore makeup as well, and he so hated it… But, ever since then, I've wanted to see him in Japanese clothes again. I can't get how he can walk so graciously in them, especially the getas! That was the reason I called to congratulate him when I also had to walk in getas. It was living hell, my feet hurt for the next week!
Hey, but right now I realized that he left his boots and shirt on the keyboard. Why on earth would he put a pair of boots on the keyboard? He really is tired. I took both the shirt and the boots and put them in a plastic bag I found in a drawer. He won't have them back for a while.
"What are you doing?" Naruto asked when he saw the bag.
"Helping Sasuke see his sister."
"Soo, I wasn't the only one who had thought of that."
"Of course not. I've been waiting my whole life to see if Sasuke would recognize his brother, dressed like that. I bet not."
"Oh, c'mon, that's impossible. He sees him all the time; he couldn't possibly NOT recognize him. But, he would be laughing his ass off, that is."
"Certainly. But, you don't know Sasuke as well as I do. All we have to do is ask him where Itachi is, and he'll believe us that we haven't seen him. Then, we show him… her. Trust me, he's so unobserving."
"It's gonna be a bit hard for Itachi, his own brother not to recognize him…"
"Nothing unusual. Both of them, when drunk, can't recognize each other. I wouldn't have thought Itachi wouldn't know who Sasuke was when he saw him. He was like… 'And… you are…?'"
"Funny." Indeed.
The door opened, and my jaw dropped to the floor when I saw him. What a view, I was ready to whistle. Although Itachi would never admit it, he looked great as a woman. Especially because he was so slim and tall. His whole persona radiated seductiveness and mystery. Too bad I preferred him as a male. But who knows, Naruto may fall in love with him as a female!
"Why did you do your hair like that?" Naruto asked. He had most of his hair tied with the senbon, except for two strands that came from the back of his neck, each on one side, in the front. It was like the queens', it looked really nice. Where did he see that?
"I saw a Japanese hooker with her hair like that. I thought it looked nice." He answered nonchalantly.
"A Japanese what?" I asked, flabbergasted.
"Hooker. What, you actually assumed I've never been in a brothel before?"
"Exactly."
"Don't forget where I met Konan. You're the only one I told, except for Pein, of course."
"Oh, right. Whatever, it looks hot on you. I wish I had enough hair for a hairdo like that…"
"Grow it. Well, I must admit, I don't look that bad, but I prefer normal clothes."
"Especially with that silhouette of yours, stick-like."
"Shut up, dork. I told you it's genetics."
"I'll pretend I haven't heard anything. And I'm not a dork. Well, what do you think, Naruto?"
Naruto was already taking pictures. Damn, he was fast!
"Naruto, Naruto, Naruto, you should've told me, I got my own positions for snapshots."
"Okay, I'll wait. Take your… positions." Naruto answered, stopping the shooting.
"Sasori, come and help me. Take your clothes off." Say what?
"Are you… Do you know what you're doing?" I wasn't sure if I should be glad or… alerted.
"Yes, I know what I'm doing, now strip."
"Everything?"
"Well, keep the trousers on. We don't want to scare our friend here."
"Okay, fine." I looked all like 'whatever' on the outside, but on the inside… I so fucking wished Naruto was not here. Don't ask… But, he was here, and he was surprised, looking skeptically at me.
"What, you're going to listen to what he says?"
"Sure. I trust him, and besides, these are photos only, why would anything happen, if that's what you're suggesting? Besides, he knows what he's doing."
"But you don't know what he's doing. What if he rapes you?" I wouldn't mind…
"You've got an obsession, Naruto. I doubt I could do that, considering I'm completely dressed." Itachi answered with a smile.
"You've got your own methods," Naruto grinned.
"Yes, but I'm not using them on my friends."
"Well then, I hope we're BEST friends starting now!"
"I'll think about it. Now, are you ready with that camera?"
"Whenever you… Sasori's ready."
I took my shirt and shoes off and I came towards him. Itachi took one of my hands and put it around his waist (It was almost like hugging a strip pole, he was that thin.) The red yukata was annoying him, so he kind of untied it, so his legs were visible now. He pushed me down and… yes; somehow he sat on my back. And yes, I was facedown.
"Aren't you supposed to be beneath? You're a woman now, Itachi." Naruto commented and I saw Itachi's eyes widen a little bit.
"Oh, right. Sorry, out of habit." I wonder what he would've done afterwards, out of habit. We switched positions, but he was facing me this time. I didn't quite know what to do, I was lost in space. But still on top!
"You're clumsy," Itachi stated. Gee, thanks, I didn't know that.
"I would've been just as well. What is he supposed to do anyway?" Naruto asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Let me guide you." Yes, master. Do your magic. He took me by the hips and brought me closer, until I had put all my weight on his lower stomach. Again, one of my hands rested on his waist, while the other one was placed by him so it looked like I has pushing the yukata up, to reveal some skin. I wish I were the photographer. No, wait, I wish I were on bottom. This way, I can't help but feel awkward. And that little bastard Naruto keeps laughing!
After 5 other positions and a lot of blushing from my part, Naruto said he had enough. Really, that guy enjoyed photographing from all angles. And he always commented that I should look more 'in control'. Fuck that, I was too busy being ashamed of myself. I could now understand what all males in Akatsuki talked about! Damn, Deidara fucked Itachi twice, before we hooked up, Hidan keeps begging for 3 years now, Kakuzu suggested a threesome, Konan said in front of Pein that she would do Itachi anytime, Pein, the supreme homophobe, let Itachi top him, Kisame had numerous wet dreams starring… guess who?
I honestly thought I was the only one, besides Tobi, who didn't want to sleep with Itachi, and only saw him as a friend, but yeah… I guess that the closer he is to me, the harder it is to deny that… even I'm attracted to him. Damn! What's wrong with this guy, he's a like a magnet for both genders. And hell, Naruto was grinning like an idiot. I thought this repulsed him? Liar.
When Itachi left to the closet to change and get his hair in its normal ponytail, Naruto came closer to me and whispered, in a hushed tone "I thought you were fucking my cousin."
"I am."
"Well then, I hope you won't end up cheating on him. Even if we're not quite best friends, he still deserves some loyalty. That asshole is head over heels with you."
"I know that. And you can be sure I'll never be cheating on him."
"I wouldn't be so sure of it, judging by the color of your face every time Itachi got close to your face. And maybe other places. I could see that he was playing, but you, mister, were enjoying all that. And don't deny it!"
"It doesn't mean I'll end up cheating on Deidara. I'm only attracted to him, with Dei there's something more than attraction. It's not my fault he's so damn attractive. If you want to know, even Deidara fucked him twice!"
"Really? Well, I can't deny that Itachi's a looker even if you're straight, I only warned you. I hate cheaters."
"Only for your 'security', you should know that even if I wanted to fuck him, Itachi wouldn't accept it. And not because he's with Sasuke. Itachi doesn't think too high of sex, so he doesn't think that having sex with someone else than the one you're involved with officially counts as 'cheating'. And that's because it lacks sentiments. But that was not relevant. What I wanted to say is that Itachi would never do it with one of his 'real' friends. Hidan has been begging him for 3 years now, and the answer's still no. And beside Hidan, I'm the only other friend Itachi knows ever since we were all 4 years old. So, it's all a thing of principle."
"Oh, so from all this thing, what should I understand? That it will never get farther than friendship, but not thanks to your great loyalty towards my cousin, but because of Itachi's morals of not screwing his best friends? You could've at least not admitted it to me, since you anyways knew it will never happen."
"At least I'm not like Hidan, I don't go drooling after him. As long as he's at an arm's length away from me, I'm fine with it. Until now, we've never been this close; I didn't even know I was… like everyone else. And he didn't even try to act seductive…"
"He didn't? He looked seductive to me…" I could see him search his mind for signs.
"No, that's called 'natural charm'. He wasn't trying one bit. Trust me, if he tried, he'd be able to get even you in his bed. But, I think he'll be a monk in the next months. Just saying'…"
"I would resist him, for God's sake. I don't have to worry, anyway. And… monk? Hello, even I know that Itachi's been a player for his whole life. I know it from Sasuke; so don't try to say it's not true. Sasuke always complained about… Oh, that little asshole! That's why he was smiling when he said I could have his room! I'll get back to him for this! Back to the subject, the idea is that Itachi being a monk is highly unlikely. If he hasn't done it yet, then Sasuke will soon leave the house just to get a break. Or, at least, that's what I think."
"You'd be surprised. Sasuke is actually the one wanting more. I've told you Itachi doesn't think too high of sex, even if he's sex on legs from what Deidara told me…"
"He told you that? What a dickhead."
"Well, he's most probably right. But, as I was saying, Itachi had a thing for Sasuke ever since they were both children. He was able to resist not fucking him all these years especially because… it seems that the more sentiments are involved, the less Itachi wants the physical part. Of course, he did want his brother, but once he had it, he was pleased with only the affective part. He's like those persons who can say 'I love you' one hundred times without meaning it and without feeling bad about it, but when they really love, they'll only say it rarely, but fully meaning it. You get my point?"
"Yes, but it's still weird. I mean, I thought you could get… sex-crazed once you're used to doing it all the time? It's a bit unbelievable what you're saying, but I do know that Itachi is not a normal person, so it might be possible, I guess."
"Trust me, I've known Itachi since forever, I probably know him best. In fact, I think I'm the one who knows both of the brothers best. Even though they had other friends, as in Hidan and yourself, they still came to me when it was something important. Well, Itachi ignored me most of the time, but we still talked a lot. I think I only know his as good as I do because I'm observant."
"Sasori, where are my shirt and boots?" a voice came from the closet.
"I don't know, didn't you have them with you?" I decided to play dumb. Naruto was already smirking and having an evil look in his eyes. This is going to be a long night…
(Sasuke POV)- 5 hours later, 6:00 PM
I'll kill Itachi. How dare that bastard disappear like that, without telling me? He should at least tell me that he's leaving if not where he's going! He's been gone for 6 damn hours, and didn't even bother to leave me a message! Ugh… Maybe he was angry with me because I told him he was stupid… Okay, maybe I was out of line, but he still shouldn't have left without a word. I asked him to go to Sasori, and he can't tell me when he leaves?
Fuck, and now, what if he won't come back home? It sounds like Itachi to always run away from his problems. Whenever I get angry with him, he disappears, just like that. And now my phone is ringing and I'm too angry to trust myself to answer without shouting! Well, no matter who it is, they better put up with my mood.
"Who are you and what do you want?" I half-yelled in the phone.
"Sasuke, this is Sasori. Look, I don't have the time to ask you what's stuck up your ass, so I'll get to the subject. Pack some clothes for yourself and Itachi and come to my house as fast as you can. Make it in half an hour tops, got it?"
"Stop that commanding tone, you arrogant bastard, and tell me why!" I snapped at him. I mean, whoa, he's calling to inform me to do something without an apparent reason. If he wants me to pack and move fast, he better send the other bastard namely my brother (whose clothes I was also supposed to pack) to help me. I'm in an absolutely crappy mood and angry like shit.
"We're leaving to Connecticut. Now."
"Wasn't it supposed that we left in two weeks? And where the fuck is Itachi, by the way?" But, this was also good news. It meant I got to leave and get rid of Naruto's company! Who cares I'll more or less get in contact with some dangerous and deadly assassins that have no idea what 'have mercy' or 'take them hostages' means! At least I was spared the time with the dobe!
"It's a long story, let's just say that it was all on short notice. Oh, and Itachi's already here. Message from him: take Naruto's bag with you when you come."
"If you're suggesting that the dobe comes with us, then I prefer to say home or shoot myself! I was looking forward to this mission only because I got a chance to be away from him, this way! Are you kidding me? Am I ever going to escape this HELL?"
"Stop complaining and get moving. Itachi will explain everything once you get here. Oh, and did Itachi tell you about the katana? You'll have to bring that as well, I'm sorry to make you our carrier donkey…"
"The what? We don't have a sword, Sasori! What are you rambling about?"
"So he didn't tell you. Look behind the kitchen cupboard, the one by the sink. It's there, wrapped in a dark blue cloth. Take care of it, and better don't go testing its sharpness."
"Itachi has a lot of explaining to do!" I yelled in the phone. He had a sword and he didn't say a thing? Maybe he didn't think it was relevant, or maybe he didn't think of it… Oh, stop making excuses for him, dumb heart. I want to stay angry with him, not find 1001 excuses.
"I'm sure he does. Now, move your lazy ass over here with all the stuff I've mentioned earlier. I've gotta go pack myself, this was unexpected."
I hung up and took a deep breath. 'Now move your lazy ass over here…' fuck you. I went into the kitchen and pulled the cupboard. Indeed, carved in the wood, there was space, and a navy-colored cloth, long of approximately 60 inches (1,50 m). I was disappointed I didn't have time to look at it. It took me 15 minutes to get to Sasori's, so I only had 15 others for packing. Damn, he didn't even tell me for how many days I was supposed to pack. Well, I can take all the clothes. I don't have many, and Itachi shouldn't have many either. I'll take all his clothes and complete the empty space in the suitcase with mines.
I got into my room and picked a lot of t-shirts, 2 pairs of jeans, all of my boxers and one jacket. Even if it's soon going to be December, I doubt it'll be too cold. Good, I got it all in my backpack (which was freakin' huge). I also picked up Naruto's sport duffle bag. That thing was heavy like fuck, what did he have in there, stones? Which still doesn't answer my question on why I'm supposed to get his bag as well. He isn't coming with us, right? That monkey-ass has nothing to do with us! Keep telling yourself that… my conscience invaded my thoughts. Oh, hush up; I'm not in the mood to be arguing with myself.
I got into Itachi's room and opened the closet door. Maybe I've underrated a bit Itachi's wardrobe. He had a fucking shitload of clothes. Packing sucks. I just grabbed a handful of T-shirts and dropped them on the bed; then, a handful of jeans and other trousers, all the socks and boxers I saw and also dumped them on the bed. Next to get out was the huge suitcase under Itachi's bed. I just dropped all of the clothes in there, without bothering to put them neatly. But… I couldn't close the zipper.
Oh, fuck that shit. I propped myself on top of the bad and started jumping up and down, pushing it close. Good, the zipper worked this time. The bag looks completely stuffed up, and I really don't want to imagine how the clothes will look once we get them out. Never mind.
Good part: I packed!
Bad part: Holy mother of God, how will I carry all this?
Itachi, once again, (stupid asshole), left the car out of fuel. 'I don't have money, little one,' I mumbled, irritated. These days, everything seems to annoy me, I'm like a girl on her period, for god's sake! I really wonder how Itachi hasn't taped my mouth shut yet. If he ever complained to me about every little shit (like I do to him), I'd slit his throat. To hell with the love, my short temper would act faster than my brain, or heart.
I put the backpack on my back (duh!), grabbed the katana and Naruto's duffle bag in the left arm and Itachi's suitcase in the right. I bet all my money that I look like a carrier donkey like Sasori said. Complete crap… Oh, and the cherry on top of the pie: I'm 5 minutes late already. They'll have to wait. After all, I don't have wings; I have legs, which refuse to move very fast.
-After 20 minutes- 10 minutes delay-
"I said half and hour, not 40 minutes, Sasuke!" Sasori yelled at me.
"Shut up, I moved as fast as I could, there were a lot of clothes and other crap like that. Where is Itachi?"
"Inside the house. I guess the whole group is here. Also, there is Naruto, as well."
"Ok, Itachi has a lot of explaining to do!"
"You'll have to save your questions for later. And you'll have to pack this also. Now hurry up." He gave me a plastic bag, a black one. I didn't question what was inside, I just threw it in my backpack. Then, I heard a high-pitched scream coming from the house. "What are YOU doing here, un?"
"Let me guess, that was Deidara." I asked Sasori as I opened the door to the house.
"Yes, it was him. I guess he met Naruto. Poor creature."
"Oh, they must know each other, then. Must be because they're both German."
"Must be because they're cousins." Oh, shock!
"Really? That's why they were so much alike? Holy fuck, that's awesome."
"If you say so…"
"Oh, and Sasori, why is your shirt backwards?"
"Is it? I didn't notice… I'll, well… see you later!" What was that? He left me standing in the living room like an idiot!
There was no real movement in the house, even if Sasori said the 'whole group' was here. Or, maybe they were used to being silent. Yeah, because of them being silent Itachi had to drug you in order not to wake you up, considering you anyways sleep like a log… Fuck logic.
"G'd evenin', mini Itachi. How's your motherfucking day?" Hidan interrupted my thoughts. He's really the last person I'm in the mood for right now. Well, he was seriously competing with Naruto for the 'most annoying presence' award.
"Good evening, and stop calling me mini-Itachi. And my day was better before you came in." I hope he gets the point and leaves me alone… I hate having to deal with Hidan, especially because he always manages to make me shout at him, this generating Itachi to also give me another awkward talk about how I should stop fighting with his friends and shit.
"I'm glad to have ruined your day! Now, where the fuck is your big bro?" he asked me with a dangerously high risen eyebrow. He looked like a monkey, I wonder if he made it on purpose, or it was just like everything about him: permanent, odious and irking me. God, give me strength not to beat this asshole with a bat!
"How am I supposed to know where Itachi is seeing as I just came here? Use your brain before asking inutile questions. Anyway, why do you ask?"
"I need to talk to him. And ask him for a fucking favor. Well, mini-Itachi, see you around!"
Well, that was short. I'll go find Sasori, he seems to be the only one here that actually knows where my brother is. I started climbing the stairs, after abandoning all the bags on a random couch. Maybe I should start with Sasori's room.
That proved to be a very bad idea. When I opened the door, I was granted the view of a half-naked Itachi. He only had his jeans on, and held in his left hand a red dress? His hair was strangely done, I can't even figure if it was supposed to look sophisticated or hilarious. Either way, he was looking at Sasori, who was right in front of him, with a scowl on his face.
"Sasori, give me my clothes back, I mean it. If I don't have them back before Sasuke comes here, I guarantee you I'll get back to you tenfold, and you won't like it."
"About your clothes, you should ask Sasuke for them. I made him pack them." Which answers my question on what was inside that black bag.
"There are only 40 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) outside, I'll freeze until I get there! Really, all those pranks you decide to pull on me are crazy!" At that moment, Sasori took the red thing from his hand and put it on his shoulders.
"You can go dressed in this, ne? Come on, I'll bring them back if I find Sasuke, I left him wondering downstairs. But better put that yukata on, you'll freeze even in the house, it's pretty cold. You don't want to catch a cold, right?"
"Are you senile? I can't wear this! What if anyone sees me in it? I know it would be nothing new, but I don't want everyone jumping on me. I can't even resist in front of everybody, not dresses like a girl!"
"You look cute in it, really."
"Stop the bullshit, I don't look cute."
"But you do! Oh, remember me to ask Naruto for that camera, I want to post those pictures on the Internet, or maybe send them over to… Pein."
"Give me clothes."
"I don't wanna. I'm the one taking decisions now, I topped you!"
At that moment, my heart stopped. What did he just say? Was it only my imagination playing tricks on me, or was it all real? And why on earth did Itachi look angry yet not ashamed, remorseful, something! I swallowed the huge lump in my throat and entered the room, with probably the most miserable face possible.
"Sasori… did you really… do that?"
"Look what you did, Sasori." Why does Itachi look like he did nothing wrong? I want to kill both of them right now! But there was something else, somehow floating in the air. They didn't look disheveled at all. Of course, Sasori was red in the face, but that was only a blush. Just why do I have the feeling there is something more to it?
"Sorry, my fault…" started Sasori in a quiet voice. "Really, gomen."
"That's why you had your shirt backwards?" I yelled at him. Somehow, even I believed this was all a huge prank, like Itachi mentioned. Or, that's what I want to believe, at least. Both of them looked relaxed. Just now I stopped to look at Itachi properly. This time, he had that red thing on him, and it looked awfully like a dress only a girl would wear. But it fit him perfectly. Unfortunately, I hate the dress, I hate the hair, and I hate the female version on Itachi.
"Oh, by the way," Itachi started while taking the red thing off again, "If you won't give me clothes, I'll just stay naked in front of you until you get tired of looking at me." What? Are you serious? What kind of method is that? Anyone would resume to looking at him for the next 24, 36 or 48 hours and still refuse to give him clothes…
"No!" That was me. "Take my jacket, okay?"
"Thanks, little one. Do you, by any chance, also have a spare T-shirt?"
"Oh, wait here, I'll go downstairs and bring you your own T-shirt. And when I return, I really want an explanation for what I've heard! Besides, Itachi… you look horrible in that red thing, it makes you look cheap and even more feminine than you already are. Please do me a favor and burn it."
"I hope you do realize it was a joke, right?" He questioned me with narrowed eyes. Why did he have to look at me like I've just accused him of theft? It was the only conclusion I could come up with seeing what I saw and hearing what I heard. He shouldn't blame me for thinking of the worst.
"Maybe it is. Still, that doesn't explain Sasori's shirt and how you got into that dress. I trust you, and you're innocent until proven guilty."
"He made me wear it!" I think he said something more, but I was out the door and I didn't hear it. I tried to forget everything and concentrate on the task at hand, aka bringing the black bag from my backpack. Stairs suck. Before I got to the couch on which I've abandoned all the bags, I saw an open door, and I knew the kitchen was there. I could also hear voices. Loud voices. It seems like today, my main activity is eavesdropping.
"Why are YOU coming, again, un?"
"I'M GOING BECAUSE ITACHI ASKED ME TO, BELIEVE IT!"
"But why would he want you to come with us, un? You don't even know us! You don't even know where we're going or what we're doing there!"
"I'M COMING FOR SASUKEE! HE'S MY BEST FRIEND, I WANT TO GO EVERYWHERE HE GOES!"
"Sasuke was the friend you were talking about? What an idiot, how can he stand you?"
"HE DOESN'T MIND ME! AND I WANT TO GO ON VACATION WITH YOU! ITACHI SAID IT WAS OKAY, SO I COULD TAKE CARE OF SASUKEE! AIN'T IT COOL, 'COUS?"
"No, it's not, un. I hate you. I'll roast your ass! What on earth is Itachi thinking?"
"DUNNO, NOW HURRY, DEIDARA! ITACHI SAID WE HAVE TO BE FAST!"
"Itachi's not my boss, un. If he wants me to move fast that bad, he better come here and help me!"
Okay, I'm not in the mood for this anymore. So, I got my answer. Itachi ordered that Naruto comes, so he doesn't have to take me to the actual missions, and he leaves me with monkey-ass so that I'm not completely alone. Nice strategy, but… Naruto? He'll blow everything up. If, by any chance, someone comes looking for me, they'll find us because of his shouting. Itachi knows what he's doing…
I opened my backpack and took the black bag out. I looked inside, and yes, Itachi's shirt and… boots were there. Odd. Back to Sasori's room. Oh, bother, stairs again!
"No, but you wanted to see me travestied," I heard a very low voice. "My God, I prefer being naked on MBC rather than Sasuke seeing me like this!"
"Too late. And don't be so stubborn, you look just fine whatever you wear."
"I'm back!" I announced, entering the room. "Here are your clothes, Itachi, and Sasori, please put that shirt right, it irks me." My anger returned full-force. Please have a good excuse, please have a good excuse…
"FINE." They both answered at the same time, so I assume they said the same thing.
"So, what happened? Itachi?"
"The madman next to me suggested that I show Naruto, who was here visiting Deidara, my 'cross-dressing skills'. And before you ask, some missions require it; it's not my secret hobby. I wanted to avoid an inutile fight, knowing that they will convince me sooner or later, no matter the methods. Sasori took my clothes, but I didn't realize at that moment. Naruto wanted to take pictures, and I suggested that we make them… 'Spicy'. So, I picked Sasori and had him get his shirt off. Well, a funny part was when I got on top and Naruto reminded me that 'I'm a woman now', so we switched positions, took the pictures, then we got a phone call from Pein saying that everybody is heading here, and some already arrived, so Sasori probably didn't realize the shirt was backwards, I guess. And for the past half an hour I've been treating with Sasori to have my clothes back. End of story. How did you like it, little one?"
"I knew you wouldn't cheat on me!"
"Why would I do that when I have you? Willing 24/7."
"Don't you dare mock me! You're the one that should be laughed of, turning me down so often!"
"Go to Hidan if you want crazy rabbit fucking. I'm not like that, I told you."
"You are."
"Not with you. I wouldn't mind no sex at all. Having you with me is more than enough for the moment."
"Oh, no, no, no, no. NO. If you ever decide to turn monk on me, I swear I'll rape you from day one. And I mean that!"
"I was figuratively speaking. Even I'm human. Sasuke, you do realize Sasori's gawking at us like we have 3 eyes, right?"
"Oh, he is?" I asked awkwardly, looking at Sasori. "Hi…" That was a lame thing to say.
"Hi to you too. I'm not amazed, actually. But, I'll leave you two to talk, I guess." He looked at Itachi. "I'll be downstairs if you need me. Oh, and Itachi, go to Pein ASAP. He said he wanted to talk to you." Itachi nodded and Sasori left the room. Hallelujah, I had Itachi all to myself!
"Now, big brother, we have some time alone, right?"
"Sorry to ruin your little fantasy, but I'm busy." He answered flatly. Oh come on, you've gotta be kidding me…
"Busy? Too busy for me?"
"Sorry Sasuke, I know what you're implying, and we don't have time for it. Maybe tomorrow, okay? Now, let me get dressed and we'll leave shortly."
"Pretty please?" I came closer, placing a hand on his bare chest. "How can you refuse me like that?"
"As much as I would want to see you happy now, I have business to attend. I told you, maybe later."
"That's what you kept saying all day!" It's not that I would've minded waiting some more time, but right now, I was extra turned on, both because he was standing half-naked in front of me, and also because I'm 17! I have raging hormones, damn it!
"And I promised you I'll take care of your problem," he said pointing at my crotch, "tonight, if you're a good boy."
"I'm not a good boy. I'm a bad boy, and I want it now. Nice and hard."
"Dirty talking won't work on me. Now, get off and let me dress."
"What works on you, then?" I shouted. "Itachi, I get a hard on only from hearing your voice, and here you are, like a statue! Am I really that awful? Do I really have no effect on you? I'm starting to doubt myself!"
"Don't doubt yourself. I just know how to control myself, that's all. And the fact I'm put under a lot of stress right now. My mind is too busy with thinking and planning to allow anything else to happen. I need to work at full potential, and I won't be able to do that if you're here to distract me. Because, yes, you do distract me." That's all I needed to know, dear.
"Give up." I never thought that I would be the one to start something, but tonight I was feeling bold. High and mighty. Bottom line: horny. I just started a rough make out session, as my hands were scratching at his back. I had little to no experience when it came down to sex, but oh well, I was hoping he would go commando after I initiate it. He was the seme, after all. And the kiss was mind-blowing, but it ended sooner than I would've liked. I even let out a whimper of disappointment. He looked at me and hugged me, while he was playing with my hair. Did I mention that I bit his neck in the meantime? I knew he was going to retreat after that, but I still held him tighter.
"Let go, Sasuke. Please understand… I've gotten so used to only showing my feelings by hugging you and looking at you when you weren't aware, I'm not used to all this PDA yet. My whole life I've only wanted to have you close to me, nothing more, and nothing less. I'm extremely happy when I get the chance to simply touch your face or trace circles on your back. You think that only because I have a mountain load of experience in sex, I'm a nymphomaniac. That was only something my body asked for. But now… I'm trying to do what my heart asks for. And that is… completely different."
"So, you exposed to me in a huge phrase how you love me so much and prefer to cuddle rather than sleep with me. Also, you're what, living your first adolescence love right now? Really, Itachi, can you get any more lovey-dovey than that?"
"And that's why I generally ignore you when you ask me questions like those. I much rather prefer to keep things to myself and keep my mouth shut. I told you, nine years I've had all the time to think about this all over again, I've gotten to adore every little thing about you, but never that mocking habit of yours. If you don't understand what I'm talking about, at least don't mock me about it." He sighed at last. Geez, and I thought I had issues.
"Please, stop the sappiness. I thought you already knew I hate sentimentalisms. I don't get them, and I hate having to face them. You should've expected that from me. I never mope about this kind of things. I only 'suffer' when I can't have what I want. If I get it, what's the use of continuing with the moping?"
"Sasuke…" he sighed again, showing a sad smirk. "You're jumbling things. I'm not the one to mope, you're that one. I don't complain unless you push me to say what's wrong. But you…"
"Me what? I always thought you were made of stone but still had a soft spot for me, but that's too much. We are young, for God's sake! I'm still a fucked up teen, I don't want a 40-year-old-er's love story. We fuck now, and we cuddle when we're too old for fucking. Makes sense, right? I never asked for you to shower me with love, I can't take this. You always do this! When I ask you something, you do so much more than I've originally asked for, yet the main thing is still incomplete. Does it sound familiar?"
"You're doing it again. Fine, then I won't hug you and hold you anymore if that's what you want. You could've told me if it really bugged you so much. It's just sad that you keep doing the same thing ever since you were a little kid. And you only do it around me. You always ask me for something, cry your eyes out and keep reminding it to me every single minute, and when I finally give in and give it to you, you play with it, and then throw it to the trash. And when you'll need it again, it will be broken, or gone. You did that to your phones, clothes, even trips. You ask for them, and when you return after 2 days only, we can't have the money back, and you still throw it in my face, because it wasn't what you expected. I am willing to accept that I'm 'doing it wrong', but you also have to learn that sometimes, you can also hold a part of the guilt."
He turned around and opened the door, looking over his shoulder at me. "I'm going to find Pein and see what he wants. Do whatever you want in the meantime, but keep close to one of us, Sasori, Konan or myself. I think we'll go in the same car."
(Itachi POV)
"Naruto, come here." Two blue eyes scanned my every movement. He looked rather tired, but I think we all were. It's 7 PM and we're only now getting ready to leave. And we'll probably be driving for the whole night; I only hope I won't have to drive as well, I hope Sasori will be able to keep himself awake.
"What is it?" he inquired, looking insistently at me. Why is he giving me that look?
"Why are you ogling at me?" I hope I'm not beginning to see things now…
"What happened? You never command anyone around like that. Only when you're thinking of something else. And you don't usually let your mind wander…"
"You don't even know me all that much, how can you tell that I only command people around when I'm distracted?"
"Psychology. You're too distracted to choose your words and simply blurt out what you have to say."
"It doesn't matter what happened. Look, I've gotta tell you what you're going to do, okay? Be all ears."
"Yes, boss. Go on."
"So, Naruto, you have to go there to stud the situation. You're an expert at sneaking, so I'll skip the part where I give you tips. So, we have three cars, and I'll be in one of them with Sasuke, Sasori and Deidara, the other one is Hidan's and Kakuzu's. The third one is where you'll be in. You'll go with Pein and Konan, theoretically towards Stamford. Actually, the three of you will be heading to Somerset, where you'll switch places with Sakura, I've told you about her. From there, together with Tobi, you'll also drive towards Stamford, but as fast as you can, you've got to be there before any of us. Especially before the car I am in. You have to check what's wrong with Kisame. Pein lost connection with him, and seeing as he was spying on the yakuza as well, we have reasons to think he's done something stupid, like getting caught."
"Then, he's dead. Nobody survives the yakuza. They'll torture him and get Intel on us. We must get him out."
"Easier said than done, Naruto. I can't go there myself. At least, not at the moment. I'm not quite healthy right now; I've recovered from a pretty nasty internal bleeding. I have to be with Pein and Sasori to think of some sort of strategy. Also, I have to make sure Sasuke's safe. There's no one available except for you and Tobi."
"So, you're suggesting that I go, correct? You never trusted Tobi, even though he didn't give you reasons not to trust him."
"I don't know, call it instinct, I have a feeling about him, I hope I'm wrong. Now leave, I'll make sure Sasuke won't miss you."
"I'm sure you will."
"Sasuke, get in the car. You're going with Sasori and Deidara."
"And you?"
"I'm coming with you. I have to talk to Sasori."
"Why do you never come just for me? I feel unimportant." And he pouted. Just like he did when he was 5 years old. That looked adorable, even now. Why did he have to have such a temper, 180 to the cuteness of his face?
"You are important. But my main purpose is to discuss strategies with Sasori, not snuggle with you, which you anyways said you didn't like." I could see him look down, I bet he only now comprehended what everything he said meant. No one would be able to wait so much for him, and forgive him so many things… But I still did. All the little tantrums, and all the complaints, maybe I just got used to them. Still, I am probably the only one willing to wait for him forever. He would always come back to me, with an invisible tail between his legs.
"Maybe I overreacted, I didn't mean no close contact at all, I only suggested that we balance the snuggling with the actual 'action'…"
"I know what you meant. I only wanted to show you how your own words got back to you. Think before you say something. I know it's all due to your extremely short temper, but that sharp tongue of yours can get you in trouble if you don't tame it." I smirked at him. The only way to get Sasuke to listen to you was to make it not sound like an advice. The great Sasuke Uchiha doesn't take advice from anyone, especially not his over-sentimental, over-protective and over-philosophical older brother. At least I know that will never change. Sasuke is the ultimate rebel, going against all the possible rules out there. That's Uchiha Sasuke for you…
"Don't tell me what to do. I know very well where the problem is, but I don't know how to fix it. And don't start giving advice on it, since you've never had this kind of problem!"
"I wasn't quite your average teenager either. But I'm older and it was only an observation. Let's get in the car, we'll talk some more after I finish all the things I have to do."
Sasuke sighed, annoyed and stepped into the car. Of course he didn't bother to get inside on the other door, he simply crawled to his seat and showed to the now empty one, for me. He once again had that shine in his eyes; I never knew what it meant exactly. He was somehow giddy, but something was happening. Even at Sasuke, it's unusual this much of a short temper. Is he angry or what?
"What's wrong?" Sasori questioned once he got into the driver's seat. Sasuke glared at him and then looked out the window. I also noticed that he held his hand in front of me. I took it and he squeezed mine lightly. Hm, maybe he's not as anti-closeness as he pretends to be. Or maybe he just wanted to know if we're good again.
"Whatever, be a jerk." Sasori mumbled to himself. I could feel Sasuke's anger dripping and that moment I knew that if his hand wasn't in mine, and the other supporting his head, he'd certainly show Sasori a middle finger. Call it (brother's) instinct. Not only women have those.
When Deidara also got into the car, Sasori started the car and we left. I believe Hidan will be the last to move, just like always, but we all got used to it. I just hope Naruto will be able to solve Kisame's problem.
After 30 minutes of driving, Deidara took a map out of his little bag and started drawing on it. It's been a long time since I've seen a map drawn by Konan. Unfortunately, it was all we had at the moment. It was already dark outside so I couldn't see what Deidara was scribbling on the map, but I doubt I would've see what it wrote even if it was midday light. I just can't see that far…
Sasuke has long since fallen asleep, with his head on my shoulder. I didn't mind it, but Sasori's little comments made me wish he was awake so I could lean in and punch the daring redhead. Was today his bad day, or what? First pranks with my clothes, all the stuttering and bashing, now teasing…
And Deidara kept on saying that he wished they were like us. I seriously doubt it, Deidara hates fights, and it seems like Sasuke and I have plenty of those, as much as I try to avoid them. I don't like fighting with him. Every time he reproaches me something, I fear he'll just get tired of never getting what he wants and do something rather drastic. And he's known for taking decisions in a rush…
Although, our previous conversation, right after we got into the car, kept replaying in my mind. Maybe I was wrong, and he wouldn't give up on us that easily.
~~~Flashback~~~
"Why do you always look sad when I tell you to let go? You've been doing that for quite some time." I asked, curious of his reason. After all, this is Sasuke we're talking about here, he doesn't look sad just because he finds some odd signification to my words, such as 'leave me alone', or 'we break up'. It must be something else that's bothering him.
"You said it yourself. I'm obsessive. I'm obsessed to being with you all the time, I want to know where you are, what you're doing and with whom. And that's not a sad look, it's just that… I know that you're a free man, you never tell anyone what you do or when. You're used to being independent, right? It bugs me sometimes… I hate it when you shut me out from your life, and when you tell me to let go, that's what I feel. I don't know if that made any sense, but that's what I feel."
"Obsessed? You'll get bored of me, soon."
"No, I won't! We're special, Itachi, we are…"
"Brothers? Maybe you're right. You're my little sin."
"It's not a sin, Itachi. It's only right that we're happy. Happiness shouldn't be considered a sin."
"Sin or not, it is forbidden. Anyways, the deed is done, and about the moral code, I couldn't care less. I've broken so many laws, this would be just another one…"
"I like it when you're confident. And not sappy or moping."
"I'm only scared, right now. And I don't mope, I thought we set that straight."
"Scared? Scared about what?" At that moment, we were both whispering, so I doubt either Sasori or Deidara heard us.
"Scared that, one day, with your changing moods, you'll wake up and say 'this is all a huge mistake, and it has to stop'. I'm scared that, what now seems to you as normal and natural will appear as sick and twisted in the future. How can you guarantee that it will last forever? Because, if we ever decide to go separate ways, we'll lose all our bonds, we won't be able to look at each other again as brothers, if nothing more."
"I don't know, Itachi. I never viewed our relationship as normal and natural anyway. It still appears to me as sick and twisted, but that's exactly what makes it even more interesting. I really am a very changing person, but I hope we'll be together forever, you know? Like in the fairytales."
"And you said I was sappy. Fairytales are not real. I know we'll fight again, like earlier, break up, make up, all the ups and downs, but there is more to it. Much more…"
"How can you talk like I'm the only one who could make mistakes? How can I be sure that you won't leave me if one of your missions requires you to? That partner of yours was right, I'm a brat. A kid who knows nothing about life. All of it, the whole idea of LIFE looks frightening. What am I to do if you're not there with me, to guide me?"
"Do what you feel you have to do."
"All I feel is that I can't go through this thing without you. I can't survive the Akatsuki and the yakuza mission without you. Do you get that? I am dependent on you. I want to feel that you're with me, just like your heartbeat always calms me. I want to feel that security, Itachi…"
"As long as you feel that, you know I'm still with you. And you know I'm never going to leave you like that. How selfish would I be to leave you with all this without a helping hand? I swear nothing will happen to you, Sasuke."
"Thank you." He rested his head on my shoulder as million thoughts raced like bullets in my brain. I never knew he was so insecure about things between us. But, then again, everything moved so fast, anybody would be confused. He's only 17. And I'm only 20. Well, almost 21, but still. We're both too young for this. We should normally be walking in the park, holding hands and going to restaurants, at 'dates', and crap like that.
Then, after two months of 'knowing each other', make love. No, instead, we're brothers, we already know all there is to know about each other, and the day we admit our feelings, we end up fucking senselessly. Also, we have to run and hide in order to keep our heads. Just perfect. What a normal couple we are. I want to laugh about this so much…
And now, Sasuke's asleep. When he's asleep, that's the only time he looks so peaceful. No frowns or smartass faces, alluring looks and bitter smiles. Right now, with his head on my shoulder and mouth slightly open, he looks perfect. He looks… innocent. Yeah, right, an innocent 17-year-old. "Hey, little one, sleeping well?" I whispered, knowing he won't hear me. But I enjoyed talking to him, and pretending he listens.
I wanted to ask him and talk to him about so many things, but I knew he wouldn't be able to understand what I wanted to say. Sasuke… Do you know, Sasuke? How difficult this is for me? I have to struggle to stay alive, this time. I promised it to you. Who knows, maybe I don't have much time left. We're going into the lion's mouth now. How many sacrifices will we have to make, just to be together? What will it take? What will we lose? How many people will try to hurt us? Do you know, Sasuke?
That moment, I started coughing, and hard at that. I brought a hand to my mouth and willed myself to stop, but I couldn't.
"Itachi? Are you okay, un?"
"He can't speak, Dei. And no, he's not okay. You still haven't found a cure for that?"
"N-no," I could barely make that sound when I coughed blood. How I hated when that happened, mostly because of the pain in my chest, but also because of the mess I made every time.
"Holy shit, Itachi, you never said there was blood involved! Are you… is it worse?"
"H-how *cough* does i-it *cough* look like?" I hate stupid and/or inutile questions. Like asking a deaf man if he can hear you. Like asking me if I'm fine. I wonder how Sasuke was still sleeping. Nothing can wake my little brother up. Nothing.
"Sorry, you sound like an old seek geezer, I get it hurts…"
"Yo-you don't s-say..."
"How do I stop you? Or, better said, can I stop you."
"No-t exa-ctly…" It would normally take around 2 or 3 minutes and then I just stopped, suddenly. But during those 3 minutes, I coughed my lungs out. And seemingly, half of my blood.
"Still takes you 3 minutes, or more?" Sasori asked me. I could only nod. 2 minutes to go…
(Sasuke POV)
I woke up because of a noise. Damn, that's so annoying, I was sleeping! I also realized that I was in Sasori's car, because I saw Deidara when I opened my eyes. Oh, now I remember: I fell asleep on Itachi's shoulder. But the surface I was on right now was shaking?
I sat up and looked at Itachi and saw him coughing. Oh, not again… Now, nothing can stop him.
"Itachi." He didn't answer. "Itachi, are you going to be okay? I mean… you'll get through it, right?"
He nodded, but then I saw his hand covered in blood. Oh my god, he never told me he was coughing blood!
"You decided to die now? Is it the first time?" He didn't answer, so I just waited. After 2 minutes, the coughing stopped like nothing actually happened. He took a napkin he found next to him (probably from and old take-way of Sasori's) and wiped his mouth and hand, then looked at me.
"So, what happened while I was coughing?"
"Oh, no, you won't get away with that! Itachi, why was there blood?" I pointed at the blood stained napkin in his hand.
"I don't know, ask a doctor. It's not the first time it's happening, by the way." Oddly, he looked just fine now, except his cheeks were slightly pink from the effort and his breath was also ragged. "I'll be fine, I think."
I didn't insist anymore, although I was dead worried about him. Every time this happened, he avoided talking about it. I told him to go to a doctor, and he did, but when I asked him about it, he said 'It's not that bad, I'll live.' The second time he went to the doctor, in April this year, he came home pretty beat up, and refused to talk about it.
I wonder what's wrong with him. He's had these coughing moments for 6 years now. It first started when he was 14, but our parents never found out about it. He asked me not to say a word about it. Of course, I didn't. But it also wasn't as serious back then as it is now. He only occasionally coughed out of the blue, but only for a couple of seconds.
"You never told me what the doctor said, back in April."
"He said it's worse than 2 years ago. But still, nobody knows exactly what's wrong with me. I don't know what I should understand from that."
"Oh wow, they don't know what you have, but they know it's gotten worse. Some doctors they are…"
"It was you who pushed me to go to the doctor, Sasuke. I already knew it was worse, I didn't need a second opinion."
"And it's seriously… not dangerous? You sound bad."
"Thanks for letting me know, Captain Obvious. I can't do anything about it. Maybe it is dangerous, but I'll live. Somehow."
He didn't say anything else, even if I kept questioning him. It was complete silence. Sasori kept his attention on the road, Deidara started drawing something that resembled a bird, Itachi kept checking the watch, and I was just looking at him. Usually, I would look out the window, but it was 8 PM, and it was also November, so it was dark outside. Almost scaring.
"Another 15 minutes, Itachi, Sasuke…" Sasori announced.
"Sasori?"
"Yes, what is it?"
"When did you last talk to Kisame?"
"Uhm… 3 or 4 days ago, why?"
"He's still alive, then."
"How can you be so sure?"
"In 4 days, they had all the time to send us his head, or the whole body. It means he didn't cooperate, and they're keeping him alive for that sole purpose, to extract information from him."
"Yes, I thought about that as well, Itachi, but…"
"I know what you mean. We can't get him out."
"…And we must make sure he doesn't give us in."
"I can't do it. Pein could, but I can't."
"Me neither, but we have to."
"Once we get to Stamford, I'll talk to Tobi. Or better, Kyu."
"Kyu? Are you sure? We don't even know if he can do it!"
"How do you think he spied in Japan for 6 months? He's got the skills. And he will do it, it's a lot easier for him."
"Who is Kyu?" I asked Itachi.
"Somebody."
"Give me a name."
"I can't. You'll probably find out soon, when you'll see him. Or when he decides to introduce himself."
"I thought I knew all the members of the organization."
"Well, there are two people you don't know. One of them is Kyu, and the other one defected 2 years ago. Well, not defected as much as Pein kicked his ass out of Akatsuki."
"Oh, okay. So, 15 minutes?"
"Maybe only 10, now."
I readjusted my position and placed my head on Itachi's shoulder once again, while looking at Sasori's red hair amused. Connecticut, Stamford…what's going to happen there?
(Normal POV)- 7:45 PM
Two figures approached the door. The lock on the door was easily broken and thrown away.
"This place is giving me the creeps," the elder stated while entering the tight passage.
"Yes, it really looks dangerous and sinister."
Both of them continued to advance through the tunnel. "Do you think there is anybody in there?"
"There certainly is someone, but I doubt they're all of them. Maybe only 5 or 6."
"Which door? There are three."
"I don't know, Itachi didn't mention the doors. You go to the left, I go to the right. Most probably, they're in the middle, like they always are. In Japan, at least."
"Okay, go."
He was right… nothing good was waiting for him here. Ever since he was a child, he's been living in a world of lies…
'What makes you think you're my friend? You're just someone I allow to hang out with me. Because you're rich, fish-boy. You'll never have friends, you hear me?'
"Kisame, I've wanted to tell you this for some time…" his father looked at him apologetically. His eyes looked pained. No, he didn't want to know… No, Pa, don't say it! Please, just don't! I don't want to hear it…
"I'm going bankrupt. I'm sending you to the USA with my last money. You're 15, you'll manage to make a living. Somehow…"
'What the fuck is wrong with him? Crying at 17? So what if his father died? Even if he was murdered, as he says.'
"I'll help you. We're alike. I understand your pain. The same thing happened to me, one year ago, when I was 15. We can be friends. I'll help you understand."
'Let him go, I said!'
'Leave! Save yourself, now it's your last chance! I'm doomed anyway, please!'
'No, I'm not leaving you here! You're my friend, I don't leave my friends behind just to save my own ass.' But why? Why was he doing this? He was not worth it! Kisame would never be able to do the same! How did Itachi always manage to make him feel so inferior? And Itachi was so young, only 18… Giving up his life for HIM? For Kisame?
"Remember, Kisame. Whatever happens, you can do it. I believe in you. I understand you. And I wish you'll remember what I'm going to tell you: 'What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger'. No matter how many times you fall, you will be able to rise once again. And I'll be there for you, because you're my friend. Right?" Why did Itachi always bother to tell him things lithe these? There was no need for pretty words. All his actions spoke for themselves. How many times he saved Kisame from a stupid and pointless death, how many times he listened and tried to make him understand? How could he ever begin to think that Kisame would forget all that?
"Orochimaru-sama, they're here." The words were addressed to the longhaired man seated at the head of the table, with a snake-like appearance. Anyone would be scared to encounter him. Only by looking at him, you felt like you were going to lose. Because Orochimaru never plays fair, and because Orochimaru liked to play with his prey. Because he was a snake, both in appearance and in behavior.
"I know," Orochimaru commented, while playing with a knife. "Let them do what they want. This will be entertaining…"
"Yes, Orochimaru-sama."
A shadow was approaching him, with shallow and insecure steps, but at the same time, a wave of confidence came from his shadow. Who is this? He thought. The shadow came even closer to him, almost engulfing him whole. It didn't carry a frightening aura, though. It was almost a gentle touch on his shoulder. "Who are you?" Kisame asked, in a cold tone.
"A friend," came the answer. "I'm the anonymous member, Kyu."
"They sent you after me? To get me out or to kill me?" A pair of blue eyes stared into light brown ones, communicating non-verbally. "So, you don't know what to do?"
"Itachi was clear: get you out. Pein only told me to 'make sure the information doesn't leak'."
"Just like always," he sighed, closing his eyes. "What are you going to do?"
"Is there any way to get you out?"
"No." he opened his eyes again. "There is not. Do it."
"Are you sure? Why don't you try? At least for Itachi, he's the only one who really wants you alive!"
"Because then, they'll track Itachi instead of letting him be."
"Why Itachi? Why not the leader, Pein?"
"I don't know… But if I disappear, then they'll have a chance to leave. Leave! You cannot stay in Connecticut. It's full of traps, everywhere."
A blade came to Kisame's neck as blue eyes stared in awe. "So, you'll become a sacrifice piece? Just for Itachi?"
"There's no just. It's all about them. Him, and Sasuke. I want to do this. They deserve it. Do it. Go on, kill me."
'Those who turn their hands against their comrades are sure to die a painful death. You taught me that, remember? It's time to pay for every time you've risked your life for me. For every time I was weeping and you taught me life is tough, although you're so much younger than me. For every time you helped me rise and take everything as a man!'
The blade started cutting, drawing blood. Blood that was silently falling, slipping from his neck. 'That was it… It all comes to an end…' As the blade cut deeper, he started thinking his life all over again. It was short. And he was nothing but a pawn all this time. He never complained, though. Some would cry, knowing that they were seconds away from death.
There was no need to cry. You cry when you don't want to die, but he sentenced himself. It was all of his own vow. Why? 'Because, right now, you've got more reasons to live than I do. You have Sasuke; you have to live to protect him. This world… you made it a better place for me, and for so many other people…'
The next second, his eyes closed, as a thin trail of blood left his mouth. It's over. 'I'll assume my role as a pillar to the bridge you're building through humanity. I'll serve to your cause till the very end. And I'm happy with it that way. Maybe, after all, I was not so bad, Itachi… Thank you for… everything'. The blade retreated. It has all been so silent…
Naruto was looking at the now dead man in front of him. He didn't know if it was really the right thing to do, but it was too late to change anything. Those two words, though, still lingered into his mind. Kill me. Self-sacrifice. What a stupidity. But it was Kisame's last wish, and he was there to fulfill it. It took a mere 30 seconds.
Time to go back to Tobi, he thought as he was heading out the door. Throwing a last glance at Kisame over his shoulder, he left. "This was the first… Is there going to be a second one?" he whispered to himself.
Tobi was waiting in front of the middle door. After a sign from Naruto, they left. Once out the hideout, Tobi was the first to speak. "Did you see him?"
"He's dead, now. It was too late."
"Is that why nobody bothered to attack us? They killed him?"
"He is dead…" Naruto kept saying that, without having the courage to admit he was the one who killed Kisame. He would tell Itachi, but no one else.
"Let's go back to the bunker. You're the one to tell Itachi, okay?"
"Sure…"
When they arrived, nobody was there. The bunker was empty. And it was cold, making you feel uneasy with every step you took.
'But, if I disappear, you will have a chance to leave. Leave! You cannot stay in Connecticut. It's full of traps, everywhere.'
"Tobi, let's wait outside."
"Why? We could get discovered!"
"We're not going back into that bunker ever again. There are traps. Everywhere."
"How would you know?"
"I heard people speaking. The walls are thin, and I have great ears. I'm not a spy for nothing. I also know that their leader has something against Itachi. But I don't know why."
"I haven't heard anything, but if you insist on staying outside…"
Minutes passed before a car came into view. It was red, so it was Sasori's. That was both good and bad, Naruto thought. The bad part… he was supposed to be with Pein and Konan, not Tobi. However, the good part was that Itachi was here, so he could tell him about Kisame. Again, bad part, Sasuke is here just as well, and he might not have the chance to talk to Itachi alone.
The car came closer, and then it stopped. The first to come out was Deidara, followed by Sasuke, who started stretching his arms and legs. Itachi followed, and the last one was Sasori.
"HELLO, SASUKEE!" He tried to shout, really annoyed of having to play his idiot role. He was too tired to be playing hyperactive.
"Keep quiet, you retard! This way, you'll wake up the dead!"
"Sorry, Sasukee…" Thank God it's dark and Sasuke is pretty lame at picking up hints.
"Sasuke, go and tell Tobi to get you inside. I need to talk to Sasori." Itachi started, sensing Naruto's uneasiness.
"Okay. Naruto, wanna come?"
"No, I wanna watch the stars!" He heard Sasuke mutter 'idiot', but didn't say anything, as he approached Itachi silently and carefully.
"Your little brother an my dear friend didn't even realize I wasn't brought here by Pein."
"He's very tired." Itachi answered, a bit irritated. "Did you get in?"
"Yes, I did." Naruto answered, flatly.
"Did you find Kisame? How is he?"
"I found him. I'm not going to lie to you, Itachi. Kisame's dead."
A/N: That was it, my friends! I did it on time! I really worked my ass off, just to finish and post this thing on Itachi's birthday! yay, the 9th of June! Happy birthday:) Well, I hope you liked it, and don't forget to review, telling me what you like and what you think I should be working on some more. Oh, and... don't go saying that Kisame's death was at short notice, or not that much emphasized. It will be mentioned a lot in further chapters, as well as Naruto's flashbacks. Thanks, folks:) Now, write me a message, okay?
Kisses, Ioio-Chan XD