"Finals are finally over!"
Hinata smiled affectionately at Sumire who threw her arms in the air.
"I was nervous about our English test, but I think I did okay," Hinata spoke softly as the pair ambled down the street.
"I probably failed. I'm terrible at English."
"Did you study?"
"I studied a lot."
"Then you probably did fine."
"I get nervous during tests. Sometimes my brain shuts off."
"I've done that too. The anxiety can make it hard to concentrate."
"Definitely."
They exited the campus and headed toward the bus stop. Winter had arrived in Konoha, and the air was much cooler as it flowed around both pale women.
"Are you going to celebrate with Naruto later? After his Communications final?"
"Yeah. I'm going to meet him at his apartment. We're going to get dinner. There's a new Thai restaurant that opened up in the city, and we were going to try it."
"That's sound really nice. I haven't had Thai food before... wait. There are peanuts aren't there?"
"I think they have some dishes without. Are you really allergic? Would you be in danger if you went there?"
"I'm not sure. I've avoided it just in case and when I told Sasori-sama that he just threw out his jar of peanut butter. The same day too. He just went into his cupboard and tossed it out. I thought it was really funny."
"Do you carry an EpiPen?"
"...no."
"Oh."
"I should, shouldn't I? I couldn't really afford one for most of my life, but I guess I should look into it a little bit."
They caught sight of the bus rolling down the street toward them.
"I think that's a good idea."
"I'll ask Sasori-sama since he grew up learning about medicines and herbs."
"He's Chiyo-sama's grandson, isn't he? Sakura's been interning with a pharmaceutical company based in Suna. Do you think it's the same one?"
Sakura. Right. I haven't been thinking about her much.
"It is."
"Really?"
"Yes. I didn't want to say anything, but I think it is."
Hinata noticed Sumire's sudden distance and decided to gently pry:
"Do you go to his family's company often?"
"I did once, and that's where I saw her."
Hinata turned to the bus that stopped in front of them. When the doors opened, they entered and picked a pair of seats near the back end of the large vehicle.
"Did you talk to her?"
"No. I ran."
"Do you want to talk to her?"
"I don't know." Sumire hugged her faded, worn backpack to her chest and buried her face against the lining.
I should wash this, it's starting to stink.
Hinata gave her shoulder an encouraging squeeze. As much as she disliked her friends not getting along, she too recognized the severity of the situation. Unable to form any words of comfort, Hinata settled in her seat and looked out the window.
Sumire bunched up the material of her bag and ran her fingers along the lining.
Maybe I should just save up for a new backpack. I don't think I should have to talk to her if she doesn't want to talk to me. I am still upset. I have every right to be, but why should I approach her after what she did. I didn't do anything wrong! Well... I guess I could have communicated better with her, but how was I supposed to know that she was changing her life plans? She never told me anything. We were just roommates. I doubt we were even really friends.
Hinata's thin arms wrapped around Sumire just as a tear rolled down her cheek.
"It's okay." she cooed and rubbed her shoulders.
Sumire managed a weak smile and leaned against her friend.
Even though I had so many people supporting me, I felt so alone. I thought the worst would happen. I thought I'd have to sleep in the library on campus again, but things worked out okay. I don't know if I'll be with Sasori-sama forever, but for now, I'm going to make the most of what we have.
"Sumire-san, your stop is next."
"Oh right, thank you."
"Text me if you want to do something. Since its break, we have a lot more time."
"I will, thank you."
X
The final few blocks to Sasori's apartment felt longer and more tiring than they usually were. Sumire still cradled her bookbag against her chest as she walked while thinking about her previous living situation. She questioned every kind gesture, every conversation they had. Was she just tolerating me because she wanted a roommate? If Naruto hadn't introduced us and pushed her to consider me, would she have ever agreed? Was I just forced on her? Or maybe I was just convenient?
Too consumed by her thoughts, she hadn't noticed the scuffing sound of rapid footsteps behind her. The moment the sound penetrated her whirlwind, she took off in a sprint. She didn't look back. A feeling of dread washed over her perspiring skin. The cold air bit into the heat radiating from her body. As soon as she reached the apartment entrance, she punched in the code. Just as she dashed behind the sliding glass doors she turned to see someone darting behind the opposite end of the apartment building.
Oh god was that?
Sumire rushed into the elevator and jack-hammered her tiny finger into the button to close the doors.
It can't be him. It can't.
She leaned back against the wall as the machine rumbled and started to rise.
I hope it's not him.
X
Sasori entered the small building with old walls and passed by the receptionist without so much as a glance. He climbed the single set of stairs to the second floor, instead of taking the elevator. His doctor had mentioned attempting to add tiny exercises alongside taking his medication and this one moment was an acknowledgment of that suggestion. At the top of the stairs, and slightly out of breath, Sasori paused to calm his pulse. It was not from the light exercise, though he was not in shape, but from the knowledge that beyond the door at the end of the hall was his grandmother. He knew that when he arrived to pick up his prescription for the next month, it would be hidden inside her office. He expected nothing less from the woman who grew up always an arm's length away. Always looking down at him. Always uncommunicative. Always distant yet somehow demanding of attention and confirmation that he loved his grandmother.
Sasori approached the door and pressed a palm to it. With one final, slow inhale, he pushed the door open.
Chiyo raised her head. Her eyes flashed more full at the sudden intrusion as she was discussing the details of her new interns next task, but inside her chest was a bloom of heat. After so long her son's son was standing before her.
"Sasori," she spoke finally.
Sakura had turned with the sound of the wood sliding across the carpet. She nodded her head in a short bow at the short red-haired man that entered the room.
"My prescription," he said shortly.
"My apologies, Sakura. This is my grandson, Sasori." Chiyo turned her attention to her intern.
Sasori? I've heard that name before... he's...
"My prescription, you old hag."
So rude!
"Why don't you have a seat? We haven't gotten a chance to speak in a long time."
"I've got better things to do than reminisce. Give me my prescription."
Chiyo sighed and reached into the drawer she'd stored his medication in.
"The next time you come we should-"
"No."
Sakura glared at him as he approached the desk and snatched the bag out of Chiyo's hand. He turned and spotted Sakura seated there, and his eyes narrowed.
Pink hair. Green eyes. She's.
"How's your girlfriend, Sasori?" Chiyo prodded from behind him.
He glanced back at his grandmother and stalked to the door.
"Don't you mistreat her now! Gosh, what was her name? Midori? No."
Sasori stopped in the doorway and spun around to snap:
"Sumire."
Sakura's eyes widened as the name processed.
"Don't try to use her as a means to get to me, you miserable old woman." he fixed his eyes on Sakura."She's dealt with enough garbage already."
He slammed the door in his wake. All the jitters in his body propelled him to the stairs which he climbed down quickly.
X
Sakura faced Chiyo who had a sad expression etched into her sagging features. She sighed slowly and shuffled a few papers.
"Your grandson is-"
"It's not his fault."
"Chiyo-baasama."
"It's mine. If I had raised him right, he'd be a lot kinder. I made poor decisions, and for a while, it seemed like he'd turned into a monster."
"You can't blame yourself for everything."
"I gave all my love to my son, and when I lost him, I should have given all my love to my grandson. I was so devastated by the loss, I wasn't acting like myself. In my grief, I neglected him emotionally."
Sakura patiently listened as her current employer shared the anecdote about her life.
"I should have held him and cried with him. Instead, I kept him at a distance."
"Have you tried telling him that?"
"As you saw," Chiyo released another sigh. "He doesn't give me the time I would need. I wish he would, but I understand. He too hasn't gotten over the loss of his parents. Having your guardian try to develop a better relationship with you when she's almost on her deathbed... it's infuriating."
"Still. He's an adult now. He should learn how to forgive! You were having a hard time too!"
"I appreciate it, Sakura."
"Of course."
X
I have nothing to do now. Sumire meandered the apartment aside from Sasori's studio. She'd occupied herself with watching television for a few hours, but eventually, she'd grown bored. While waiting for him to come home, she tried to learn the newest Korean pop song complete with choreography. Deidara and Tobi had contacted her over Line to arrange a meetup in Deidara's apartment to practice. She wanted to familiarize herself with some of it before they did though.
The door whipped open, and she felt Sasori walking toward her. Before she could greet him, he wrapped his arms around her. She knew something was wrong. His embrace grew firmer as he hung his forehead against her narrow shoulder. She slid her arms around his back and asked:
"Did something happen?"
He clenched her tighter.
He's gonna crush me again!
When he lifted, his head pain was present in his features. His red brows knitted.
"It's your turn Sasori-sama. Tell me what's wrong."
"My grandmother."
"You saw her?"
He nodded.
"Did she say something to you that upset you?"
"...no."
Though they'd been together for only a short time, she knew she only had to wait for him to explain.
"She," he finally started. "I was..."
"You get angry when you see her, huh?"
He nodded again.
"It's okay. We all have people that upset us. Like for me, earlier. When I was talking with my friend, we started talking about Sakura. I got upset then too."
I saw her.
He wanted to describe his triumph, the way he'd told off his girlfriend's ex-roommate, but his body was shutting down. Just as before he wished to recede behind the wall. He wanted to roll closed the gates and roar that no one could cross them. But just as before, she gently set her hand on the latch he tried to shut.
Stay open just a little longer. I'm coming over.
Sumire pressed her cheek to his.
"It's tough. She hasn't apologized, but you get so angry when you see her you know you just don't want to listen."
He didn't respond anymore. He knew she was simply speaking his withheld thoughts aloud.
"A part of you does want to let her apologize so you can start forgiving her. So you can talk to her more, but it's tough to do that when every time you see her you just want scream."
Sasori took hold of her wrist and leaned back so they could look into each other's eyes. She smiled at him, and he kissed her hard. She made a tiny giggle sound. After they parted she continued:
"It's really okay though. You shouldn't rush yourself. If you do, it won't feel as good when you two do get to a point where you talk to each other." she giggled. "But if you don't want to have a relationship with her, that's fine too!"
"Stop being perfect," he hissed.
Sumire laughed and patted his cheek.
"Shush."
They cuddled for a while longer, both lost in reminders of their days but comforted by the warmth of each other's bodies.
"My break starts today, Sasori-sama."
"Hmm."
"We should do something fun."
"Like what?"
"I dunno. Go out to eat or... an amusement park? No, I don't like roller coasters."
The homebodies stayed in place, both considering what would be a good adventure that wouldn't exhaust them too much.
"Movies?"
"We can watch movies at home."
"You're right. It has to be a good enough reason, huh?"
Sumire paused and pressed her lips into his neck. She spoke against his skin:
"Shopping?"
"How tiresome."
She leaned back:
"Well, then what?"
"...Wine tasting?"
"You don't really like wine, though, Sasori-sama."
He grunted.
"Wait... coffee tasting?"
Their eyes locked.
"Is there such a thing?"
"I think so!" Sumire hopped. "Would you want to?"
"Yes."
Sumire grinned, then darted away to get her laptop. They spent the next few minutes with their eyes glued to the screen as they searched for any upcoming events. Though they didn't find any soon, Sumire set up an Instagram account.
"Deidara-san has been bugging me for days to do this. I guess this is a good enough reason to do it finally, huh?"
"If it will notify you of the next coffee-tasting event, then I suppose you'll just have to suffer through it."
Sumire laughed at his joke while clicking follow for many local coffee shops.
"There. Now we wait I guess."
"This means you'll have to check it often."
"Ah, crap."
He chuckled.
A Month and a Half Later
Sumire peppered kisses all over his scrunched up face. Just as he was opening his eyes, she started up again.
"Alright, already."
"But I'm gonna miss you!"
"You'll see me next Thursday."
"But that's so long from now. Wait, Suna is hot, isn't it? I don't need to bring a jacket."
"It's very cold at night."
"Oh, okay. I will." she smooched his cheek a final time. "Text me when you get there okay!"
He grunted and backed away finally.
"Bye Sasori-sama!"
He stepped onto the train while giving her a final wave. Sumire blew him a kiss, and he shook his head.
Awh, no fun!
Sumire waited until the train was down the tracks before heading back to the apartment.
X
Sumire wasn't shocked to see Shikamaru in her Formal Logic class. He was seated in the back row, already looking disinterested with his surroundings.
"Shikamaru!" she called before she neared him.
He turned and gave her a lazy wave as she sat beside him.
"I haven't seen you since our last final. How have things been? How's Temari-san?"
"She's dragging me to an art show next week."
"Really? Which one?"
"The one in Suna. Their university is showing a puppet collection."
Oh man. Small world.
"That sounds really cool." Should I tell him?
"It's a damn eight-hour train ride. Who has the energy for that?"
"You could just sleep the whole time." It is really that long. Gosh, I have to do that too.
"Her brothers have been going nuts about it, so I don't see why she has to make me go too."
"She probably wants to spend time with you."
"What a pain."
Sumire unzipped her bag slowly as she mustered up the courage:
"I'm going to that guest lecture too."
He looked at her:
"In Suna?"
"Yeah..."
"What for an art class?"
"No. Actually," she paused. "Um."
Shikamaru had straightened slightly, but knowing it would take her a minute his posture slackened.
"The one doing the guest lecture. He's my roommate!"
"Oh."
Shikamaru eyed her as she nervously opened her notebook and pulled out a pen. The professor entered and introduced themselves to their students. Shikamaru wished to question Sumire further as it was evident to his keen intellect that she was withholding information, but he waited until after class. Just as they stepped outside and she attempted to dart away, he asked:
"So he's just your roommate?"
"Huh? What are you talking about?"
"The guy doing a guest lecture. He's just your roommate?"
"... okay fine. He's my boyfriend."
"How old is he?"
"Why does it matter?"
Because something like this has happened to you before and...
"He's thirty-five. Yes, I know he's too old for me, but he treats me well and doesn't hurt me, and I like him a lot okay!"
"I'm sorry, I was just concerned."
Sumire frowned when she realized how harsh she'd been, but she stayed firm.
"I understand. I know it sounds a lot like what I've dealt with before, but trust me. I'm okay. We're okay."
What followed was a long skeptical silence that was finally punctured by him saying:
"Yeah, it's none of my business anyway."
Sumire's shoulders dropped as his blunt response was not what she expected.
"When are you taking the train there?"
"Next Thursday after my morning class. At 12:25."
Shikamaru raised a hand to scratch the back of his head, then massaged his neck.
"I was thinking about leaving around that time too."
Her gaze drifted back to him as they edged around the building.
"You were?"
"Yeah. Temari wanted me to get there as soon as I can, but my class ends late on Wednesday, and I wouldn't want to leave until the next day midday."
"I see. Are your classes all on Monday and Wednesday?"
"Yeah. I'm off all other days."
"How many are you taking?"
"Five."
"Oh geeze that's so much."
"At least I get them over with."
Such Shikamaru thinking, haha.
"If you want we can travel together. I've been to Suna a couple times, so I can kind of remember where to go."
"Really?"
"It'll be less boring with company."
Her subconscious anxiety abated with the realization that her first long trip was not going to be taken solo.
"If you're okay with it, then yes!"
X
Sumire packed lightly as she only had to spend two nights in Suna. Sasori's lecture was scheduled the day after and the following Saturday they'd planned to spend their time exploring the neighborhood Sasori grew up in. Sumire was excited to see him and watch him speak about his favorite subject.
Though they spent so much time together at home, Sasori always spent twice as long in his studio working on his creations. Even more so because of the art show. Once she went two whole days without hearing a peep from him, so she'd knocked on his door and asked if he was alright. He called back he was fine, but she'd been sitting on the couch all morning and knew he hadn't left the room once. Sumire came back to his door a few minutes later with a plate of snacks and the most massive mug that they owned filled to the brim with extra strong coffee. Sasori had accepted them with a quick thank you and peck on the lips.
The day she would meet him in Suna finally arrived. Shikamaru met her at the entrance a few minutes before their train would depart and they stepped on together. Just as she had suggested, Shikamaru fell asleep after thirty minutes. Sumire who had trouble sleeping in moving vehicles focused on watching the landscape change outside the window. They traveled through Konoha by the tall buildings, streets full of cars, and people walking in all directions. Being in the city always made her feel small, but as the last of civilization passed her, they became surrounded by hills. They entered a tunnel and coming out the other side she saw what started off as hills turned into mountains.
I thought I was small before.
But even the mountains could only last so long. Soon they gave way to a vast plain separated only by the fencing for the farms that occupied it. Sumire saw them in the distance and sat up as they neared.
Cows! They're so cute!
She wanted to express this sentiment to her travel buddy, but he was still sound asleep. She pouted a bit but decided to take a picture to show Sasori later.
He's probably already seen them, but I don't care. Cows are cute. Stinky, but cute. I should have brought a book or something.
Between trips to the bathroom and staring at the window, time passed slowly. Finally, when Shikamaru awoke, and they ate their Ekiben (Train Bento) Shikamaru asked:
"So you got to watch him work on all his puppets?"
"No, he works on them in his studio. He had the floor and walls packed with protective layering so he could use a few tools, but he told me he does nearly everything by hand. Even the big pieces, he doesn't like using modern tools."
"Sounds tiring."
"It's what he likes. Does playing shogi make you tired?"
"I see your point. Speaking of which."
"Oh god, no. I can't. I don't know how and even if you taught me, there's no way."
He sighed. She frowned, but upon recalling there was still five hours left of their train ride, she conceded. In the next half hour, he explained the mechanics of the game and the ultimate goal. Sumire followed along, but even with simple explanations, she wasn't quite sure what to do. Eventually, Shikamaru became frustrated, and they gave up.
"I'm sorry."
"It's fine, it's not a game for everyone. Don't worry about it."
"We can play Jankenpo."
"Isn't that for kids?"
Sumire pouted again. So what, it's fun?
"Fine, but only two out of three."
"Okay."
"Loser has to buy drinks."
"Seriously?"
She nodded.
"Fine."
They only passed a few seconds with this game. Sumire cheered when she won the first round, but quickly became disheartened when she lost the two.
"Okay, what do you want?"
"Black tea."
"Unsweetened?"
"Yes."
Sumire stepped out of her seat to find the vending machine carefully placed between the cars. When she returned only a short while later, Shikamaru had fallen asleep once again. With a sigh, she put his drink in his cupholder and took to staring out the window once again.
It was when the last of the vegetation disappeared, and they entered a desert, that Sumire realized how much time had passed. It'll only be another hour now. Suna is really really far. I wonder how Shikamaru can keep up his relationship with Temari-san? I heard long-distance relationships are complicated. But I guess with the internet and phones it wouldn't be too tough to talk to each other, but wouldn't you want to hug and kiss your partner all the time. I can't imagine myself being able to handle it. I think that's why I like Sasori-sama because he's so homey and cuddly.
The train slowed as they entered another city, this time the buildings were spaced further apart. The last rays from the setting sun bore down on every inch of land. Everything had a sandy hue to it, even the well-swept streets and sparse population.
It's like a city, but it's like a desert city. It's kind of cool here.
The train stopped, and she shook Shikamaru awake. They exited after collecting their things.
I was wrong, it's fucking hot here.
She'd decided to wear her heaviest clothing and leave her lightest packed in a little duffel bag. She realized now that that was a mistake. Only a few steps outside of the station and she had beads of sweat forming on her forehead.
I hate this.
"Were you going to meet him here?"
"No, he gave me directions to his hotel and told me to text him when I got there."
Shikamaru managed not to raise an eyebrow with his next thought. He could've at least met her here. What if she gets lost? Oh well, it's not my problem.
They parted with a wave, and she pulled out the instruction's Sasori sent her through a text. The hotel was a medium-sized building and looked just a bit too modern for a city that had a naturally aged feel. Sasori answered her call in a sleepy voice:
"I'm coming down."
"Were you busy?"
"I was taking a nap."
"Oh sorry,"
"Don't apologize."
In the lobby, he pulled her into a tight embrace, then led her to the elevator without a word.
He looks tired.
Sumire studied the bags that had grown under his eyes and the increased paleness of his light tan skin.
"You haven't been sleeping much, huh?"
"No."
"Have you had coffee today?"
"Yes."
She wrapped her arms around his left one and chinned his shoulder.
"I missed you."
He smirked a little, and she giggled.
"I want to take a nap too."
"Good."
The pair practically collapsed on the bed when they entered his hotel room. Sumire stayed there even as she shed the jacket she'd foolishly wore the entire time. Though it was still hot, they cuddled on the bed sheets and knocked out.
X
"It's too hot!"
"Turn on the air conditioner."
"But I'm all sweaty and gross. I don't want to move."
"Then stay hot."
Sumire "hmphed" and wiggled her relaxed muscles atop the bedsheets until her body reached the edge of the bed. She rolled off with a huff and trotted to a fancy, circular thermostat attached to the maroon colored wall.
"I don't get it."
"Just lower the temperature."
"How? I don't see any buttons."
"It's a touch screen."
"Help please."
Sasori reluctantly climbed on the bed. At her side, he quickly tapped the screen and pressed a triangle pointing down.
"Ohhhhhh."
He let out an amused chuckle and slid his arm around her waist.
"I missed you too."
"Did your nap help?" Sumire asked as he drew her against him.
"Yes," he placed a tender kiss against her neck. "Having you here did as well."
Her cheeks that were already flushed from the temperature of the room turned a brighter shade of red.
"Have you been busy?"
"Every day and night. Yes."
"Then we should just eat in tonight and relax. You can show me around on Saturday when we have more energy."
"I have enough energy."
"Oh?" she puckered her lips at him. "For what?"
The smirk told her everything. Oh gosh oh gosh. He backed her up until she hit the edge of the bed. She squeaked as she landed and bounced while he climbed on top of her. He left open mouth kisses atop every inch of her exposed skin. After tugging her pants and panties down, he tossed them away.
Sumire became a mess beneath him. His grip of her thighs was firm. His tongue moved so expertly along her folds. Just as her fingers found a hold in his hair, she was frantically searching for a better grip in the pillows and sheets. By the third helpless shudder and cry, she begged him to stop. As incredible as it was, her body was overstimulated, and she feared she would pass out. Sasori kissed his way back up her torso.
"I couldn't resist. I'd imagined doing this to you since I arrived here last week."
"Sasori-sama you dirty birdy. I have to shower now."
"I'll order room service."
"Yay." her voice was dreamy.
She accepted his kiss and got up off the bed a second time.
Their food arrived only an hour later, and they ate while discussing the details of his lecture the following day.
"Do you know how many people are coming?"
"No idea."
"It's gonna be so cool seeing you up there." she nipped into a hamburger. "I'm excited. Do you think they'll try to ask you to do more?"
"More lectures? They might. I've been contacted by them before about similar offers."
"What kind of offers?"
"Teaching positions."
"What?" she nearly jumped out of her seat.
Still not much of an eater, Sasori took a tiny bite of a french fry and only stared at her.
"They want you to be an adjunct professor?"
"I've been offered both adjunct and full-time."
"Do you not want to teach?"
"Hmm."
She showed him her trademark pout.
"No?"
"I've thought about it."
"Is this another one of those things where you'd probably like it, but since it requires you to do more than just work on your puppets you won't do it right away without encouragement?"
"I'll see how I feel after this lecture."
"Okay! Good! I like that answer."