Warning: Oh let's see… just the usual. Honestly, if you are susceptible to triggers, you should probably not be reading my fic. I dislike the idea of having to bubble-wrap the world for sensitive people. I get that people can read things and get upset but I've gone through my life living and learning this way. So have many others. If I'm watching a movie and a scene comes on that disgusts me or sends me into a fit of rage, I either walk out of the theater or change the channel. I don't expect someone else to be responsible for my mental health. I'm responsible for my own. If my words make you angry, feel free to not read my fics and not like me. But it still won't change my opinion that it's not everyone else's responsibility to make sure you are protected from the big bad. I have done what I could from the beginning of this fic to let people know this was going to have dark themes and explicit sex. As a reader, hell, as a human, ya gotta take some of the responsibility for yourself. Not me or any author should feel like we have to carry your well-being on our shoulders.
Author's note: Okay, so. Yes, I've been gone forever and to avoid a REALLY long A/N I'm not gonna go into it… much. Suffice to say, I had a big blowout with a friend, trump got elected and then I just lost the taste for writing due in part because I kept getting accused of encouraging pedophilia. Like really? So you can probably now guess why my above warning was written with a harsher tone than normal. Listen, Dear Reader… I really don't give a fuck what YOU think is immoral. Go live your life however you want. This one is mine. There is NOTHING pedophilic about a 17yr old dating a 20yr old and if you think there is, then why are you still reading this fic? I've spent many years studying violent crimes against women and children. I've seen the horrors of actual cases involving pedophilia, sexual deviancy and extreme hatred of women. So for you to come to MY fic and try to spout your fucking morality at me is disgusting. How dare you bring your small minded, ignorant and uneducated views to me. Stay away from my fic and out of my comments. Go seek out your sheltered ignorant life elsewhere. NOW -for the rest of you, I am deeply sorry for the long wait. I've been battling doubt and well, lots of other metal hardships for these past 4 months. BUT… I made a promise to finish this fic and so help me, I will see it to the end. Thank you for your continued kindness and the love you have sent my way. Each and every kind comment stays with me, you have no idea. With all my heart… thank you. This chapter is a little over 13k and picks up the morning after where the last chapter left off. The final showdown is right around the corner and be warned, I don't know if everyone will make it out alive but I do know that it will get even darker from here on out. If you decide to stay and see this to the end with me, I promise to give you the best I have. Love and blessings to you all. P.s. I'm sure there are still typos, etc in this but after trying to get this out for 4 long months, I just really don't care anymore hahaha.
Disclaimer: Kishi is still the one who owns Naruto and I am still the dumbass who does this all for free.
**Special thank you to my KizuBae for reading this over for me! Love you, Bae!**
Chapter 21: Secrets
The warm musky smell of Sasuke's walk-in closet settled Naruto's nerves. The upcoming meeting with Itachi and the rest of the crew had him feeling a bit anxious but when he breathed in the now familiar scent of his lover, he smiled. His humor was in fine form due to the fact that he left the bathroom to dress in the closet because trying to trying to share the restroom while Sasuke fussed with his hair proved to be more than the Uchiha gangster could handle. Caught staring wide-eyed and biting his lips to contain a smirk, Naruto was promptly thrown a glare that would've made seasoned gangsters tremble. Naruto however, erupted in laughter and walked out, leaving Sasuke to finish primping by himself.
Naruto's smiled widened as he buttoned his dress shirt and considered all of Sasuke's curious little idiosyncrasies.
"Here."
He turned around to find Sasuke now standing behind him holding out a silk tie.
"Try this one instead of the black one you always wear."
Naruto took one look at the blue tie in his hand and fought back a smirk. Early yesterday morning while he and Sasuke took breakfast on the veranda, there had been a light summer rain sometime earlier. And as daylight chased the dawn away, the sky that remained had resembled the rich hue of the tie now resting in Sasuke's outstretched hand.
Naruto brought his eyes up to Sasuke, playfully narrowing them. "When did you buy this?"
"I had it. I never wear this color and thought -"
"Thought what?" Naruto held his smile.
Sasuke settled himself directly in front of him and draped the tie around Naruto's neck. "That the color would suit you," he said and began to wrap and work the tie into a perfect Four-in-Hand knot.
Focused on adjusting the length and cinching the tie, Sasuke missed the soft blue eyes that were scanning his face as he worked the fabric.
Business as usual had returned to the Uchiha's features and as Naruto held still, he watched Sasuke straighten the tie one last time before lifting his eyes to flash him a quick look of approval.
Not wanting to give attention to the gentle humor on Naruto's face, Sasuke turned and began sifting through the clothes rack in search of his trademark vest.
Yes, the strong controlled demeanor Naruto had come to admire about Sasuke, was back, alright. The meeting with his brother and whoever Itachi would be bringing with him was minutes away and while Sasuke would never admit being anxious, Naruto suspected they shared the same tension over what they could expect.
For Naruto, his concerns about the meeting stretched beyond mere clan upheaval. Helping Sasuke see their plans to the end was just the tip. Would Itachi bring up his and Sasuke's involvement? Would Itachi be suspicious of Naruto's intentions? Would he mention Naruto's parents during the meeting? Despite all the scenarios playing in Naruto's head should the elder brother question his motives or cause an awkward scene once the whole crew was assembled, Naruto couldn't help but like the somber Uchiha. His calm, sure demeanor made Naruto want to trust him. The way Itachi gently teased Sasuke with a knowing gleam in his eyes. Even the way the elder played Naruto, trying to fish out information before telling him about his possible parents in Japan, -giving him insight to the older brother's penchant for mind games- Naruto still liked him.
Unlike the younger, Itachi seemed to dislike using force or anger to get to the bottom of things. Gentle manipulation and crafty intellect were his weapons of choice and as Naruto casted a sideways glance to where Sasuke stood adjusting his pinstriped vest, Naruto understood at least one of Itachi's reasons for adopting such a controlling behavior.
With his vest fastened, Sasuke smoothed his hands over the fabric and turned around just as Naruto reached for his jacket.
"I'm going to see if Yamato is setting up," Naruto said and Sasuke paused, taking in the sight of his lover in his favorite charcoal suit, now sporting the bright blue tie he had given him. Sasuke set his jaw and gave a terse nod, doing his best to ignore the way the outfit made Naruto's eyes burn.
Gentle laughter tumbled from Naruto. "Don't hurt yourself."
"Tch." Sasuke turned from him and Naruto yanked him back around.
"Thank you," He said, pulling Sasuke close and hovering his lips over the gangster's. "I should probably get my jacket on. They'll be here any minute," Naruto said.
Sasuke's hands snaked around Naruto's waist. He knew it was time for meetings and carefully laid plans but something held him. Only a short while ago they had both been in the bath and the way Naruto had writhed and moaned when Sasuke shoved him against the wall and spread him open to taste him was still fresh in his mind. Now here he was standing close enough to smell the soap on Naruto's skin and instead of contemplating war counsels all Sasuke could do was calculate in his head how long it would be until they were both back in his bed, fucking and talking the hours away.
A knock on the study door broke the spell.
"I'll go. You can finish with your tie." Naruto stepped back and smiled.
"Hn."
Another round of soft laughter filled the closet and Naruto headed out the bedroom to the study. He managed to slide one arm into his jacket just as he reached for the doorknob.
"Good morning, Naruto." Itachi stood patiently on the landing as Naruto swung the door open wide.
"Heh, good morning, Itachi." Naruto gave him a nervous smile. "The uh, room is ready."
The elder walked slowly in. "Here, let me help you." Itachi reached for the jacket that was still hanging off Naruto's shoulder.
"Oh, yeah, thanks." Naruto turned around and Itachi helped him slide into the other sleeve, then smoothed over his shoulders and tugged on the length, sending an awkward chill down Naruto's spine.
Naruto turned back around to give his thanks and froze where he stood, mouth open.
"I believe you already know Kakashi." Itachi said; his eyes keen and bright.
Kakashi kept his hands in his pockets and nodded at the blond.
Naruto snapped his mouth shut and raised a hand. "Hey." He was about to give his trainer a sly grin when another man walked through the study door.
"This is Shisui. He returned with me from Japan." Itachi stepped farther back, allowing Kakashi to make way for the dark haired gentleman now walking up to Naruto.
"It's a pleasure, Naruto. I've heard so much about you." Shisui held out his hand and Naruto momentarily looked at it and then reached out and shook.
"Hey, I mean, uh, pleased to meet you." Naruto fumbled and winced.
A broad smile came to Shisui's face and he let out a warm sound of laughter. "It's alright. I don't care much for formality either," he said before turning from Naruto to face the other two men.
Just then, Yamato appeared in the doorway pushing a breakfast laden cart in front of him.
"This way," Itachi said and led them all into the large receiving room.
Naruto watched the men move into the next room and followed after them. Since all the drapes had been pulled shut, the room was now lit only by the overhead fixtures and table lamps, giving the room an odd timeless feel. Kakashi and Shisui followed close behind Itachi but neither man seemed to mind the other. Strange, Naruto thought. Given that Kakashi had been Itachi's lover, Naruto would have expected an air of coldness between the two, or at least a stiff regard for one another, but he saw none. What he did see was how comfortable the two seemed, easily moving aside as they neared the ta -
It was a small gesture. As all three men settled around the table, Kakashi placed his hand on Shisui's back and gently guided him to sit in between him and Itachi. The traveler from Japan didn't look back, but instead let the white-haired man direct him to the waiting chair. The slow downward slide of Kakashi's hand lasted only seconds but Naruto saw it and froze.
"Does Sasuke know we're here?"
Naruto jumped and looked beyond the two men to see Itachi watching him. "Uh yeah, he's uh…" Naruto's heart was in his throat. The damn Uchiha was looking at him with a very familiar look. A look he'd seen on his own lover earlier that very morn -
"Naruto?"
"Sorry, yeah." With cheeks burning, his hand went straight for the back of his neck. "He knows you're here, and, uh… sorry." All the air left Naruto's lungs and he slumped a bit.
Not able to help himself, Itachi twitched the corner of his mouth in delight. It was far too easy to play Naruto and wasn't at all hard to see why his little brother was so fascinated with the orphaned street hood.
Now all three of them were eyeing him and his red-faced reaction, and Naruto stumbled backward from the weight of their gaze. "I'm uh, gonna… uh, I'll go see what's keeping him." He turned to hurry out and almost slammed face first into Sasuke who luckily had been quick to grab Naruto's shoulders, just barely avoiding being steamrolled.
"Shit! Sorry, Sasuke." Naruto gave him a grimace and Sasuke stared hard at him for a moment and then spun him back around.
"Uchiha Sasuke." Shisui rose from his chair and went to the younger brother, offering out a hand.
Sasuke took in the soft gentle face of the man as he approached. "You travelled with my brother," he said and cast a glance over at Itachi.
"Yes, and hopefully I can be of assistance."
The open warmth was a bit surprising to Sasuke, but the steel behind the dark eyes now intently focused on him, was exactly what he expected from an acquaintance of Itachi's.
"Sasuke," the younger Uchiha said and an easy smile lifted on Shisui's face.
"Pleasure to meet you, Sasuke. I'm Shisui. Uchiha Shisui."
Sasuke's brow twitched up as they both let go of their handshake.
"There are a few of us left in the small village where I'm from," Shisui said and Sasuke considered his words then held out a hand toward the table, inviting him to take a seat.
Once situated, Yamato who had been quietly attending to his cart, began serving breakfast. Remembering the elder brother's fondness for eggs, Yamato prepared the standard American meal complete with bacon, hash browns, toast with jam and freshly squeezed orange juice. Sasuke reached for the coffee, pouring himself and Naruto a cup before passing the carafe to his brother, as Yamato went about laying out the feast.
A strange quiet fell over the table as they all dug in. If Sasuke hadn't been positive that his brother was keeping a close watch on his every mannerism, he might have shot him an irritated look at his obvious attempt at misdirection. With two men at his precious brother's side and Yamato spoiling him with their made to order breakfast, Sasuke set his jaw and wondered if Itachi ever tired of being everyone's favorite.
Of course it was all subtle because subtlety was still Itachi's favorite pastime, was it not? The way Shisui poured coffee for both Kakashi and Itachi. The way Kakashi silently passed Shisui a napkin and the way Itachi's eyes stayed glued on Sasuke. No, the young gangster was no fool. In fact, if Itachi tried any harder to not meet the gaze of his two lovers, Sasuke might have actually rolled his eyes. This was far from what Sasuke expected their meeting to reveal and once his initial annoyance at the discovery wore off, he became desperate to get down to business and be done with the whole thing. His brother's personal appetite was not something he cared to be aware of; whether it be two lovers or sunny side up eggs.
"You mentioned finding a way to keep the feds out of our plans," Sasuke finally said.
Itachi sipped his coffee. "Yes," he said after a swallow. "But first, Kashi."
The white haired man looked up from his plate.
"Have you been able to procure the men we will need?"
"I was able to locate a member of Anbu named, Yūgao."
"Anbu?" Sasuke asked.
"It's an older order of Japanese criminals," Kakashi answered. "They're said to be descendents of the first Japanese immigrants to arrive in America."
"Really," Naruto said, disbelieving.
"You know the old names; The Bend or Five Points," Itachi said, "but do you know the meaning behind them?"
"The slums. Those areas were once the center of most of the criminal activity in New York back in the day," Naruto answered.
"Not just criminal activity, but riots," Kakashi said. "Wars. Events that helped determine the power plays between the immigrants in this country. Who do you think runs the police departments in New York, Naruto?" Kakashi held Naruto's eyes to his. "That's why they had to raze the entire area to the ground. To erase the evidence of just how it all began." Kakashi set down his fork. "Immigrants run this country, Naruto. We wiped out the indigenous race that lived here and supplanted ourselves in their stead." The edge in Kakashi's tone cut into the men in the room. Sensing his personal feelings regarding the history of America had made an ugly appearance, Kakashi reached for the cigarettes and quietly lit himself a smoke.
Itachi watched his lover for a moment and then continued. "A war broke out. Catholic against anti-Catholic. The papers called it The Dead Rabbits Riot with the Bowery Boys pitted against the Irish gang, the Dead Rabbits but it was a religious war nonetheless. Wars over god are never in any shortage throughout the world."
Itachi took another sip of his coffee and Naruto could've sworn he saw a flash of anger in the elder Uchiha's eyes.
"During this war," Itachi continued, "it is said that the original members of Anbu sided with the Bowery Boys, thinking they would be more accepting of the Oriental culture as several of the leaders frequented the opium dens and had even taken Asian mistresses. They fought for them in the darkened alleyways using their ancient Shinobi practices to help push the tide in their favor."
"But they were betrayed," Kakashi cut in. "Once the dust settled, the Bowery Boys reneged on their word to not attack or undermine the growing Japanese population." Kakashi's voice trailed off, leaving a ominous air in the room as to just how the Bowery Boys may have broken their promise.
"So the Anbu went deep underground. Most of the Japanese clans don't believe they still exist but they do. Sometimes they act on their own and sometimes they are persuaded," Itachi said.
"For the right price," Sasuke added.
"Not exactly," Itachi answered. "No amount of money will make them act against their own principles or agenda."
"Then how-" Naruto said.
"I appealed to their principles," Kakashi replied. "They insisted on a meeting with Sasuke before making their final decision to help us but I think if Itachi met with them instead…"
"Use his knowledge of the federal takedown…" Sasuke added.
"Yes," Kakashi said. "We share what we know and I think the Anbu will be highly receptive to our goals."
"Then set the meeting," Itachi said. "Tell them Sasuke will meet with them at a location of their choosing and I will go in my brother's stead."
"Is that wise?" Sasuke's eyes darkened as he stared at his brother.
"Concerned for me, Otouto?"
Sasuke bristled at his brother's words and opened his mouth to retort.
Itachi held up his hand. "I'll have Kakashi and Shisui with me."
The wry look on Sasuke's face almost made Naruto want to grin. It was becoming clear that he wasn't the only one who could get under Sasuke's skin. Itachi had his little brother figured out to a T and loved to tease him almost as much as Naruto did. Just to different degrees, he thought and lifted his cup, smirking into his coffee.
"The. Feds." Sasuke's voice hardened and the irritation he was feeling at his brother's continued attempts to shorten his patience flashed in his eyes.
Ignoring his brother's impending tantrum, Itachi took a sip of his coffee. "Yes, well the reason Shisui was late in arriving to Pierrepont, was so he could meet with an informant of mine."
"Your U.S. Marshall contact?" Sasuke asked and Naruto jerked his head up in attention.
"No. This is an older contact." Itachi picked up his napkin and made efficient use of it before tossing it onto the table. "One I asked to find out as much as he could about the young girls who were disappearing from the local brothels in Brooklyn."
Sasuke's hand stilled over his coffee cup, then reached for it. He took a heavy drink and met his brother's hard stare. "Then you know."
While Shisui stayed relaxed in his seat, both Kakashi and Naruto scanned both brothers with peaked interest.
"What girls?" Kakashi asked.
"Sasuke?" Naruto looked over at the younger.
Sasuke glanced at Naruto and then back at his brother.
"When I first took over The Palace," Itachi said. "I hired a man from an older Japanese faction to look into the matter. His clan dissolved years ago but he's remained in New York, working in the shadows for anyone willing to pay the right price."
Shisui took the coffee pot and offered more to Itachi.
"Thank you," he said and continued on. "A few years ago, I was invited by the council to tour a local cotton mill we were thinking of investing in. After witnessing some of the deplorable conditions and the treatment of the children working there, I decided to pass on the venture. It was there that I came across Sakura, your current club singer." Itachi brought his coffee cup to his lips and sipped. "I also tried to intervene and purchase a ten year old girl who I thought was far too young for mill work but was told she had already been sold to another."
Naruto dropped his eyes and his hand tightened around his fork. Neither Uchiha missed the movement. Naruto again glanced at Sasuke wondering why he never mentioned any of this to him and just what other secrets his gangster lover was hiding.
"A few weeks later, the same ten year old girl was found murdered." Though Itachi kept his tone even, a soft chill ran up Naruto's neck.
"Kiyoko." Kakashi's eyes were fixed on Itachi and the elder turned to his gaze and nodded. "I remember the story in the papers. They found her in some warehouse near Pennsylvania," Kakashi added.
Naruto's jaw clenched. There was no way it could be a coincidence. "Bushwick, Brownsville and Pennsylvania," Naruto said low and raised his head. "Madara." He bore his blue eyes into Itachi's, remembering the three warehouses where Konan had set up her men.
Holding Naruto's stare, Itachi continued. "The police questioned me and Madara at the time. Curious, I hired someone to quietly investigate."
"What did he find?" Kakashi asked and lit a cigarette. He passed his smokes to Shisui who polity held up his hand and declined so Kakashi slid the cigarettes to Naruto instead.
"Through several sources, it was learned that three other girls who vanished not long after the first girl, Kiyoko had been found, were last seen with Madara during his routine patronage to Orochimaru's boarding house. There were reports that a few of the missing also came from the Hyuga brothel but my guy wasn't able to tie Madara to those." Itachi's eyes left Kakashi and settled on his brother. "I knew this prior to the explosion. Two nights ago, Shisui met with my contact and was told about the more recent events."
Everyone turned their attention to Shisui.
Clearing his throat, the dark haired traveler spoke up. "Before he left for Japan, Itachi only had a few working girls and boys from Orochimaru's brothel who could corroborate that Madara had paid visits to several of the missing girls. A few weeks ago, three bodies were found and as it so happened, Itachi's hired spy was contacted by Hyuga Neji to try and locate the bodies as leverage against Madara should he try and double-cross him."
"The plot thickens," Kakashi said and crushed out his cigarette.
Nodding, Shisui went on. "Neji instructed Itachi's contact to keep the discovery under wraps. That way if Madara stepped out of line, he could inform the police of the gravesite."
Shisui paused for a moment, taking in the looks of disgust and contempt. "It was at the site that two of the bodies were recognized."
Sasuke turned his attention back to his brother. "These were recent killings?"
Itachi caught Sasuke's eyes. "Yes."
"Is Madara tied to these recent discoveries as well?" Kakashi asked, swallowing around his words to keep his distaste of their topic from lingering too long on his tongue.
"Yes," Itachi said.
"And you think we can keep the U.S. Marshall's office out of things by letting him know we have information on the killer?" Sasuke's eyes darkened.
Itachi kept to his stoic demeanor. "In addition to the ten or so Japanese girls that went missing, at least three young white American girls have also disappeared. Two were from wealthy families in Manhattan."
All four men stilled.
"My spy identified two of the bodies found. One was a schoolchild from the Lower East Side whose parents recently held a dinner party that Madara attended. The other missing girl was the daughter a known antiques dealer in Manhattan who has paid Madara large sums of money to help him acquire several art collections from Europe. Both girl's pictures have been in the papers over the past few months." Itachi's voice came to an abrupt stop which only served to amplify the stunned quiet of the room.
"Fucking christ." Kakashi got up from the table and walked around to the small cabinet and lifted the top. He found a half-empty whiskey bottle and pulled it and several glasses out.
"Thirteen girls," Naruto mumbled.
Kakashi poured out the whiskey and set the cups around the table; Itachi was the only one who declined. The rest didn't wait to drink theirs off as soon as the booze was placed in front of them, knowing any type of toast would be in poor taste.
"And you think with this new information you can get the feds to care about a killer on the loose." Sasuke had always been proud of his heritage. His clan was tied to his identity. However, this was the first time Sasuke felt true kinship with the larger Japanese population and his jaw clenched at the notion that white American girls had to die before anyone would care about a killer preying on Japanese children.
"I do," Itachi answered.
All the men sat in silence as Kakashi reached for the bottle and poured another round.
The five of them had pressed on, going over details and just how and what Itachi would leak info to his federal contact, before discussing whether or not to let the crew in on Itachi's return. Naruto had spoken up at this, reminding them of the bigger picture. "If we can't trust our own then there's no point in bringing 'em along for the ride. There's too much at stake to start keeping secrets from the one's who are watching our backs," he told the table and both Itachi and Sasuke had agreed. Naruto even thought he saw a hint of pride flash in his lover's eyes at his comments but there had been no time for blushing. Yamato quickly appeared and he and Kakashi cleared off the table while Shisui helped load the cart. Itachi restocked the alcohol and Naruto was sent downstairs to round up the crew and phone Tenten at the club, to let her know Sasuke would meet with her and Juugo later.
Once assembled, the crew took turns shaking their heads in disbelief and gaping slack-jawed at Itachi. Between Sasori's curses and Gaara's side glances at Naruto over the kept secret, no one noticed Sasuke slip out. As soon as introductions and explanations were out of the way, Sasuke reappeared with Sakura trailing behind him.
At first she just glanced shyly around the room, mostly in surprise that Sasuke had thought to include her. With her hands folded together against her chest, she looked around at the gathered men until her eyes caught and focused on a familiar kind face, - the same face that had rescued her from the cotton mill when she was thirteen years old. Frozen, she stood staring, vaguely aware that the whole room was watching and waiting for her reaction.
"Sakura." Itachi said in a low voice and allowed a touch of softness to reach his eyes.
Her legs felt weak as she took those first few steps, the only sound in the room, the soft sweep of her calf-lengthed peach colored dress as she inched towards the elder Uchiha. Finding her strength, she soon straightened her posture and made her way around the table with confident sure strides.
Itachi put out an arm to take her hand but Sakura pushed it aside and wrapped her arms around his neck. With arms out, Itachi froze, honestly stunned for a split second before gently returning her hug.
"Welcome home, Itachi," Sakura said with her face pressed up against his shoulder.
"Thank you, Sakura."
Summoning her will she stepped back and smiled warmly, determined not cry. She took his hand in hers, squeezed and then walked back to Sasuke.
She placed a hand on his arm and brought her bright eyes up to his. "Thank you."
Sasuke gave her a terse nod in reply.
A sweet smile grew across Sakura's face as she headed back out the way she came. She knew the meeting wasn't for her and was fine leaving the men to their work knowing that now both Sasuke and Itachi accepted her. Along with the crew, they trusted to bring her into their circle. Sakura pulled her shoulders back. She may not be clan but she was bound to them all the same. Even as thoughts of whether Gaara would ever ask her to join him in California swept through her mind, a warm feeling stole over her and she took in a deep breath and knew no matter what the outcome, things were going to be alright. She was going to be alright.
Sasuke sat down next to Naruto and took in the sight around the table. Everyone was either stealing glances at Itachi or the foreign traveler from Japan or nervously pawing at their drinks. He grabbed the cigarettes and Naruto reached for the matches. After lighting two and handing one to Naruto, he slid the pack to Sasori.
"Now's the time to focus." Sasuke blew out a drag from his smoke and cast his eyes around him. One by one they all stilled and a quiet rustle replaced the awkward silence as they lit smokes and downed liquor.
"Every detail, every possibility for error will be dealt with. Once I'm satisfied, Naruto and I will meet with the Akatsuki and finalize the first phase that begins next Friday." Sasuke lifted his eyes to his brother and Itachi rose from his seat.
"Next Friday we make our move, however it's not toward the goal most of you were expecting." The men glanced around trying to get a better look at Itachi as he wound around the table to stand next to his brother.
"I want to make it clear," Itachi said. "that as clan, you are expected to follow orders. While I'm sure you will all no doubt prove your loyalty next week, it would be dishonest to not fill you in on everything." Itachi placed a hand on Sasuke's shoulder but kept his hard impenetrable stare on the men around him.
"There will be no expansion of our holdings once Madara is taken out," Sasuke said.
The men looked at the brothers with confusion and questions on each of their faces.
"Aye just spit it out, Sasuke." Sasori lit his smoke and tossed the matches onto the table, shooting the younger Uchiha an expectant look.
Again Sasuke was pleased with himself for seeing in the grumpy redhead what Orochimaru hadn't. "Once Madara is taken out," Sasuke said, "and the Hyuga dealt with or dispatched, I will be returning with Itachi to Japan and the hotel along with the club will be no more."
Gaara and Sasori froze with creased brows, trying to piece together Sasuke's meaning. Even Sai leaned forward and gave the junior gangster a steady stare from across the table.
"The crime families in Brooklyn are currently being targeted by the FBI," Itachi stated flatly. "A contact of mine within the U.S. Marshall's office has divulged the timetable for the takedown of all the Japanese clans."
"Fuck," Sasori breathed out.
Gaara looked to Naruto.
"I wanted to tell you." Naruto shot his best friend a guilty look.
"The decision to keep everything under wraps was crucial," Itachi said, cutting off any discussion about Naruto's choice in the matter.
Ignoring Naruto's surprised face, Itachi pressed on. "In exchange for my cooperation, I've been allowed to take my family with me to Japan and avoid prosecution."
At the revelation, Itachi could see resignation and acceptance in the eyes of his brother's motley crew, but not a single one showed any sign of feeling betrayed. Not that he'd ever admit it, but Itachi was genuinely impressed. His little brother had done well.
"I have acquired passage on a ship set to depart San Francisco for Japan in two months time." Itachi said. "And there is room for each of you if you wish to continue your employment with the Uchiha Clan."
Stunned silence filled the room and resignation was replaced with wide-eyed shock. Gaara, again slid his eyes to Naruto, who tightly shook his head. Naruto opened his mouth to let his best friend know their plans for California hadn't changed but Sasuke spoke up.
"If you stay behind, a cut of whatever is left after we finish liquidating all Uchiha assets will be given to you and we'll part ways. Should you journey with us back to Japan, you will remain clan," Sasuke added.
"All housing and necessities will be taken care of by my brother and I," Itachi said. "Arrangements have already been made."
"What 'bout papers? How're we supposed t'board without papers?" Sasori asked.
"The captain of the ship I've secured, agreed to not ask questions concerning my guests." Itachi said. "None of you have to make your decision now, but come next Friday when we set our plan in motion, I'll expect your answer."
Eyes were glued to Itachi and he sensed a shift in mood. Doubt and uncertainty lifted and the men relaxed into their seats. There was no guarantee of their survival, seasoned players lived day in and out knowing this, but with a choice laid at their feet, Itachi now saw determination and acceptance flood through each of their faces.
It was only the man called, Gaara who didn't seem affected by the news. Near matched in Sasuke's ability to shield emotion, the redhead had taken a bit more of Itachi's attention to pull a good read from him. His glance to Naruto at the mention of Japan. The deliberate way he smoked his cigarette avoiding eye contact with Sasuke. Shifting his gaze away, Itachi walked back to his chair and as he always did with everything that involved his brother, he took note of the obvious bond between Gaara and Naruto and filed it away for future use.
They stayed planning next Friday's opening so far into the day, that by the time the bright glow behind the curtains faded and dinner was done, everyone looked ragged and worn.
"Of course nothing ever goes a hundred percent according to plan," Sasuke said to the room. "But we'll cross each bridge when we come to it. For now, this is set in stone."
Sasori was the first to push back from the table and stand. "I'll be makin my choice now," he said and turned to give a nod to Itachi. Sasori pulled his shoulders back and faced Sasuke. "I planned on stayin clan for life'n I see no reason to change that plan."
Sasuke lifted his chin at Sas's words.
"I agree with Sas."
Everyone turned their attention to Sai.
"Atta boy, pastey," Sasori said and slapped the expressionless kid on the back. "I knew you weren't no schlepper!"
Sai didn't so much as crack a grin but the rest of the men laughed and chuckled at Sas's words. All eyes flitted to where Gaara sat, then to Naruto, then quickly away, but no one commented on their silence. With some of the tension lifted from the room, one by one they stood and a low thrum of voices started to build. Sasori found his way over to Kakashi and Shisui made his way to Sai, each of them curious about the other. Itachi was just about to make his move toward the much less verbal redhead when he saw Naruto step up to him.
Naruto leaned in close to Gaara, keeping his voice low. "Hey, sorry I didn't tell you before but nothing's changed."
Itachi couldn't make out what the two were saying but his eyes didn't miss the way the redhead's body went tense.
Gaara pulled back and caught Naruto's eyes with his own. "Naru…"
"Sasori." The sound of Sasuke's voice cut through all the conversations and everyone looked his way. "Take Gaara and Sai with you to the club and relieve Tenten and Juugo. I need them to return to Pierrepont right away."
"Hai," Sasori answered and Sai nodded at the order.
"Guess we'll catch up later," Gaara said and moved past Naruto following the other two out the door.
Naruto watched his best friend leave and then turned to Sasuke, brows creased with impatience. Sasuke caught the glare but held his tongue for the moment, turning his attention back to his brother. "It would be better if you three remained for introductions but after that Naruto and I can fill Tenten and Juugo in on the rest."
"Agreed," Itachi said.
"Cigarette?" Kakashi asked the elder Uchiha but Itachi declined.
"I'll join you," Shisui said and the two left the large room and headed to the study.
"Sasuke." Naruto's tone was hard.
Ignoring Itachi's presence, Sasuke went to Naruto. "You know I need the three of them to cover the club, I'm not trying to undermine your plans."
Naruto stared hard at his lover. "You could've at least given me a fucking minute."
"Naruto, we've been at this all day, not counting yesterday and the day before. I want everything laid out now so I can be done with this shit and move on to what's next."
Itachi watched the two men stare each other down and almost smiled at his brother's ability to keep his temper in check. Naruto, his mind whispered and he rose from his seat.
"Gentlemen," Itachi said as he walked past them and left to join Shisui and Kakashi.
"Naruto -"
"Yeah, okay, I get it." Naruto held a hand up and then spun around, pacing and shaking his head. "This. This is the shit I won't miss. War councils and bodyguards. Having to look over my shoulder everywhere I go." He stopped and met Sasuke's eyes. "I know you love it, the adrenaline rush; the whole fucking game, but not me, Sasuke. I'm not like you. I crave peace. A solid ground beneath my feet instead of worrying all the time when it's gonna get snatched out from under me."
Sasuke stared at him. It's not like he hadn't known about Naruto's distaste for the business but now he was forced to consider Naruto's words from the other side of their involvement. Before it had been just an agreement, a business venture the two were taking until October, but now…
"And you think California will be that for you." Sasuke said low, not wanting his distaste for Naruto's plans to again leak through.
"I don't know. Who the fuck knows what's going to happen in the future?" Naruto took a step closer. "All that matters is that I'm gonna try. I'm gonna take my chance at something more than this godforsaken racket."
It was on the tip of Sasuke's tongue to ask. He stood there watching Naruto's eyes burn with determination and the urge to ask him why California and not Japan surged and pushed through him, but his voice wouldn't obey. Scenes from Naruto and Gaara's orphanage escape flashed before Sasuke's eyes, reminding him that Naruto's loyalty for the redhead would never waver. There would be no abandoning his California plans and any invitation Sasuke laid at Naruto's feet would be sidestepped or worse - declined, and no matter how much he cared for his bodyguard turned lover, Sasuke's pride would not allow him to suffer another sting of rejection.
He pushed his hands into his pockets and took a step closer to Naruto. "I think you deserve the chance to try."
Confusion washed over Naruto at the look in Sasuke's eyes but just then Itachi, Kakashi and Shisui walked back into the room and Naruto snapped his mouth shut.
The phone near the back rang and Itachi went to it. "Yes."
Naruto and Sasuke stared at each other.
Again the feeling there was more hiding behind Sasuke's words gnawed at Naruto but there was nothing to be done. They both had made their choices and no matter how much either of them wished for more time, all that was left was the ever present tick of the clock, sounding in their ears, reminding them that time was running out.
No longer caring who stood by to watch them, both men held the other's gaze. Playing coy now would only waste what precious time they had left and neither cared to hide their feelings anymore.
"Once we're finished here and everyone's gone, you and I can go over our plans for the Akatsuki and your friends at the dock," Sasuke said and Naruto nodded, catching his meaning. Naruto's stomach again tightened at the thought of facing his friends with Sasuke at his side and he pushed his mind away from the unpleasantness of tomorrow and instead focused on the look in his lover's eyes.
"They're on their way up," Itachi said to the room and hung up the phone. He turned and noted the way Shisui and Kakashi were avoiding the scene near the entryway. Itachi slid his eyes to where his brother stood and was not amused. There was no mistaking the way the two men were holding each other's attention, silently exchanging their desire to be alone and no longer bothering with modest regard for one another. An annoying and very unfamiliar splinter of anxiety worked its way through him. As with anything that concerned Sasuke, settling or compromising meant very little to Itachi. If his brother's happiness was at stake, Itachi would see it done. But now, with Naruto firm on his decision to leave for California, he knew his stubborn brother would never risk rejection by asking Naruto to join him in Japan. This meant the two were at an impasse that would leave both men kicking themselves for the rest of their lives for letting their pride and obstinance overrule their hearts.
Itachi picked up the pack of cigarettes from the table and lit one.
There was also the redhead to consider, he thought as watched the two men while blowing out a long drag of his smoke. While Itachi couldn't be completely sure, Gaara hadn't seemed thrilled about whatever Naruto had whispered into his ear just before being sent off to the club. Did Gaara share Itachi's concern that Naruto and Sasuke were making a mistake by accepting their separation instead of fighting to remain together? Or was he simply jealous of Sasuke possibly coming between he and Naruto? Itachi set his mind on finding out.
A knock at the study door grabbed everyone's attention.
"I got it," Naruto said in a soft tone and moved away from Sasuke to let the remaining crew members in.
Without a word, Sasuke caught his brother's stare and while there was no mistaking the irritable flash of annoyance Itachi always received from his little brother, behind the pouty temperament was a look Itachi had never seen before. Pained resignation. With a scowl, Sasuke turned from him to greet Tenten and Juugo, and Itachi took one last pull from his cigarette and crushed it out. Yes, he thought, I should acquaint myself with the redhead soon.
Batting practice for the New York Yankees cracked and slammed inside Naruto's head. It had been one hell of a day, but now with the stress of it all just minutes behind him, Naruto stood looking around the now empty receiving room, waiting for his brain to catch up. The day was finally over. In relief, he let out the breath he was holding when again it hit him that not only would he and Sasuke be meeting with Konan tomorrow, but that he and his mob boss lover would also be visiting his old gang down at the docks.
Throughout the day's meetings, no amount booze or cigarettes had eased his discomfort over the anticipated event. Even with Sasuke's assurances that his friends would be kept far from the final confrontation with Madara, Naruto still felt as though he had led his friends straight into the shitstorm he and Gaara were now trapped in. And though the all-out clan war hung like a noose over them all, what really had Naruto's gut in a twist was that the same guys he used to stand on street corners with, whistling at passing dames as they loitered on the streets of the Lower East Side under the New York summer sun, would as soon as tomorrow, be introduced to his new lover. His male lover.
Naruto brought a whiskey filled glass to his lips and drank off what was left as he waited for Sasuke who was downstairs going over last minute arrangements with a couple of Japanese bankers. For a pretty fee, these old world finance men worked two avenues of the underworld and two avenues alone; money and secrets. Seeing how the Uchiha brothers were dealing in both at the moment, Itachi convinced Sasuke that whatever the cost, their services would be worth every penny.
So while Naruto battled with his nerves waiting for Sasuke to return, he drank and began to busy himself with minor tasks. He opened the drapes, wiped down the table, swept the study and made sure the room was put back in its original order. It was nonsense really, all to keep his mind away from tomorrow at the docks. The housekeeper Yamato sent up tried to chase Naruto out with aggressive taunts from her feather duster, insisting he let her do her job but he wouldn't budge. He moved sofas, lifted chairs and carried all her supplies and a vacuum cleaner back downstairs for her, repeating over and over that it was no problem and his pleasure to help.
Now with everything clean and the large room empty, he found himself unable to stop refilling his glass as scenes of Kiba with his big mouth spilling out embarrassment after embarrassment wafted in and out of his head. Shika and his expert eyes, picking up every nuance and tell, and Sasuke eyeballing them all for weakness or competition. He rolled his eyes at this last thought and ran a hand through his hair. Alcohol seemed the better choice, and he poured himself another, wishing his nerves would ease up and let him relax before Sasuke made it back to the fourth floor. Today's dealings were finished so now all he wanted was a little peace. He'd face tomorrow, tomorrow. At least that was the mantra he kept repeating after each drink of whiskey, but his gut, it seemed, wasn't getting it.
Gaara, his mind pushed out and his hand paused. He looked down at the booze sloshing back at him. Naruto had kept things from him. Information. Sure, the offer to join the Uchiha's in Japan had come as a shock but he was sure Gaara would assume he had kept that from him as well, and didn't he have a right to be suspicious? Naruto was now spending his time with Sasuke. He hardly ever set foot in the apartment anymore and all his suits were now hanging in Sasuke's closet; the two of them practically domesticated with their morning and evening routine of meals, showers and sex.
Gaara had been unceremoniously cut from his life. Naruto stared into his glass and knew he'd be lying if he said his avoidance of his best friend was mainly due to his guilt over getting them both involved in this crazy mob business.
Sure, what started off as an innocent attempt to make money for California had turned into a ride wilder than the Cyclone down at Coney Island, complete with enough twists and bumps to send them both flying outta their minds. But there was more to it, wasn't there? Even finding out who put a hit on Sasuke's life to take them out first now seemed like a walk in the park compared to the chaos that currently surrounded them.
Yes, from the beginning, the job had been one challenge after another. Facing Sakura and Hinata had spun him but that was nothing like whirlwind of the all consuming affair with Uchiha Sasuke. Then Gaara traipsing back to the orphanage for some unknown planned revenge while perhaps becoming more than just friends with Sakura. Sasuke losing his parents and Naruto possibly finding his own, and now a series of child murders committed by the most dangerous leader of the Uchiha clan, and the Federal Government itching to take them all down.
It wasn't hard to see how Naruto found it easy to convince himself that staying away from Gaara was nothing more than a guilty conscience for having dragged him into the whole mess in the first place. But as he slammed back his fifth drink, only one thing froze in his mind as the whiskey burned a path down his gullet, a silent punishment for knowing he was full of shit.
Sasuke.
Naruto's fear of facing Gaara had nothing to do with guilt and everything to do with his choice to walk away from the man that managed to unearth a truth inside of himself he now couldn't imagine living without. Gaara would see right through his insistence at keeping to their plans for the west coast and in best friend fashion, call him out on it. He looked down at the empty glass in his hand and his anxiety flared. He wasn't ready for that conversation yet.
Naruto reached for the almost empty bottle and filled his glass again.
"Drinking alone?"
Startled, Naruto spun around and missed his glass, spilling some of the whiskey onto the table and floor. "Shit!" He looked from Sasuke to the mess he'd made. "I was just -" Naruto turned back to the table and cursed. "Fuck, I just cleaned this shit!"
Sasuke frowned at his lover's temper. "You cleaned?"
Naruto set everything down and began searching the room for something to wipe up the spilt booze. "Yeah, I mean, there was nothing else to do while I waited and the room was a mess." He found a towel in the small alcohol cabinet and wiped down the table. "Buncha slobs, if you ask me," he mumbled.
"What's happened?" Sasuke asked, walking toward him. He put his hand over Naruto's and stilled his scrubbing. "Tell me."
"Nothing." Naruto didn't look up. "I just…" He didn't want to talk about it. Itachi was taking Sasuke to Japan and Naruto and Gaara were headed to California once this whole mess was done. They both already agreed to the terms of their arrangement months ago. Nothing more needed to be said.
Sasuke's hand closed around Naruto's. It didn't take any of his Uchiha skill to see Naruto's anxiousness. "Then pour me one too."
Finally looking up, Naruto saw there were no questions, no hints of pursuing the matter any further in Sasuke's eyes and it calmed him. He pulled his hand away and went for another glass.
With the last of the whiskey poured for Sasuke, Naruto lifted his own. "To wasting time," Naruto said with a gleam in his eye and Sasuke smirked.
As the two men drank to the old toast, Sasuke watched Naruto. Whatever the reason -and there were many to choose from- he could see now wasn't the time to question what was bouncing around in the blond's head. More and more Sasuke found he didn't need to push to get inside one of Naruto's moods. The man cared for his friends. His loyalty ran deep and Sasuke was no fool in thinking there was any difference between Naruto's friendship with Gaara and his friendship with the guys down at South Street Seaport. He knew Naruto would be devoted to both in equal fashion.
Sasuke also knew his earlier assignment to the redhead had irked Naruto, sending Gaara away before the two had a chance to talk things over. Thinking the best friends would soon need time alone to hash out their own issues regarding kept secrets and California plans, Sasuke swallowed down the rest of the booze and figured the blond was simply stalling.
Naruto took Sasuke's glass from him. "What's the time table for tomorrow?" He set the glasses down and leaned back against the table.
Sasuke tugged at his tie. "Konan will meet us at the hotel at before noon and Kakashi set up the meeting with your friends at the docks for three." He slid his tie off and stepped closer to Naruto. "Kakashi and I can handle the meetings if you'd rather not -"
"I'm going."
Sasuke nodded. "Do they know?"
Naruto lifted himself from the table and turned around to pour another drink. His hand froze as he stared at the now empty bottle.
"Yeah," he said, using a lighter tone. Naruto didn't look up but instead went to the liquor cabinet for another bottle. "I mean we didn't really, you know... but they knew and yeah, it was fine -they were uh, fine with you know…"
Sasuke watched him pour them both another glass. "Naruto."
"It's fine, Sasuke." Naruto finally looked up and held out the booze. "Here."
"I only need to meet with Shikamaru. He speaks for the rest of them so there's no need -"
"It's fine." Naruto again raised the whiskey at Sasuke who took it but didn't drink. Naruto watched him stare down into the crystal, swirling it thoughtfully. "I can handle myself. You don't have to worry about me," Naruto said.
Sasuke lifted his eyes. "I know you can," he said and brought the drink to his lips.
"Then what's the problem?" Naruto tried to hold back his irritation but it slipped out anyway. He cringed knowing his anxiety wasn't Sasuke's fault. The crime boss was only doing what he could to better their odds against Madara.
Sasuke paused. "When I insisted on meeting with your contact, it didn't occur to me…" his voice trailed off and he shot back his drink, grimacing slightly from the burn. He set down his glass and moved closer to Naruto. "I've placed you in a difficult position."
Naruto was still holding his drink when Sasuke stepped up to him. He felt his heart pang at Sasuke's words. The Uchiha was concerned for him. The man who had once offered him up like bait to the Hyuga was now worried about the predicament he might have placed him in.
"You uh…" Naruto swallowed, his mouth suddenly dry. "You didn't, heh, the uh, guys are alright with…" he stared at Sasuke, mouth open in mid sentence and quickly looked at the glass in his hand and downed it trying to stall.
"Okay, but are you alright with me meeting them?" Sasuke took the glass from Naruto and set it down. He then looked to his lover and reached out, taking hold of his waist and tugging him in. Now face to face, Naruto lifted his arms to Sasuke's shoulders and wrapped them around his lover's neck. They breathed each other in, softly nudging their faces, teasing, tempting the other to make the first move.
"It's fine," Naruto said softly. "It's just… I don't know. I've never had to explain myself to anyone before." Naruto brushed his lips against Sasuke's. "The guys… Gaara… they're the only family I've got. We've been through a lot together, ya know?"
"Mmmm…" Sasuke let out a hum and circled his arms around Naruto's waist, pressing his face into the crook of his neck. He breathed in his lover's scent and felt Naruto's body respond by slightly arching into him. Sasuke closed his eyes at low moan the came from Naruto. "They're not the only family you have anymore," he said and hitched in his breath, immediately regretting his words.
Naruto froze and pulled back. He dropped his hands to Sasuke's chest and pushed back and out of his arms.
"Naruto."
"I'm not interested in some fantasy, Sasuke. Gaara, Shika, Kiba and the guys, they're my family and they're the only family I've needed. I can count on them. Depend on them. I'm not a fucking child who believes in Santa Claus or the fucking tooth fairy and I'm not little fuckin orphan Annie pining away on pipe dreams and make believe!" Naruto could feel the anger rushing through him. He blinked, trying to keep his focus on Sasuke as the alcohol finally took hold adding a haze to the room, but Sasuke only stared back at him. Unsure of his emotions, Naruto stormed past and into the study. He looked at the door leading out to the fourth floor landing and clenched his fists.
Fuck! He didn't want to leave but he also didn't want to face any more questions about the strangers waiting for him in Japan.
Naruto turned and went to the veranda.
Those strangers didn't know him. They didn't jump the flattie on Delancey Street, saving Naruto from getting collared. They didn't divvy up their scraps of food so Gaara and Naruto could eat when their meals were nothing more than a few slices of bread and a couple of stolen eggs for an entire week's meal.
Naruto pulled out his smokes and then patted his pants and shirt for some matches when Sasuke came up next to him with his hand out.
Naruto looked at the matches he was holding. "Thanks," he mumbled but didn't raise his eyes. He lit his smoke and then handed the pack and matches to Sasuke, still avoiding eye contact.
Sasuke lit his own cigarette and sat down across from his troubled lover. He tapped the pack of smokes thoughtfully against the table wondering how to best approach the situation. He didn't want to escalate things to the point where it would ruin the short time they had left together but he also knew better than to ignore Naruto's sudden tension. The last time one of them tried to bury their emotions inside a bottle of booze, it had ended badly and Sasuke had no intention of allowing their final days to be tainted by arguments and guilt.
"Naruto, I -"
"I know my choice is still bothering you." Naruto looked at Sasuke and took a hard pull from his smoke, blowing it out in a rush of air. "I know you don't understand why I would choose California over travelling to Japan to meet two people who claim to be my parents but you have to try, Sasuke." Naruto stayed standing and looked back at Sasuke casually smoking his cigarette. "I've made my choice."
Sasuke ashed his smoke. "Have you spoken to Gaara?"
"Why would that matter? He and I made the decision to leave for California before we joined up with you. He knows I would never leave him in the lurch."
"Yes, but have you talked to him since the meeting? About whether or not he wants to journey to Japan with the rest of us? Have you told him about your parents?" Sasuke leaned forward.
"They're not my parents."
"Naruto."
"What if Itachi is wrong? Have you considered the possibility that your precious brother could be wrong?"
Sasuke narrowed his eyes at his lover. He knew Naruto's temper was getting the best of him and if they weren't careful it was bound to get the best of them both. "As much as I would love to call my brother out on an error, I don't believe he's wrong in this case and I don't think you believe he's wrong either." Sasuke took another tug from his cigarette and watched the conflicting emotions play across Naruto's face. "And what if Gaara wants to go to Japan?"
"We already decided on California. Nothing's changed." Naruto shot a glare at Sasuke and then walked back into the study.
Frustration filled Sasuke. He knew Naruto wouldn't leave the floor but he didn't feel like chasing him from one room to another all night. There wasn't time for a fight. He could feel doubt and denial hiding in Naruto's words and he wasn't willing to let it go. At least not until he found out why Naruto was so insistent on not believing his parents were alive and looking for him. He let out another long stream of cigarette smoke and stood up up to go after the damn blond, when Naruto walked back onto the veranda with the bottle and glasses they had left in the receiving room.
"I uh, thought we could use another drink." Naruto quickly looked away from Sasuke's skillful eyes and poured the alcohol. "I know I could use another drink," he said and set a whiskey filled glass in front of Sasuke, who kept his eyes on Naruto and slowly retook his seat.
"Why don't you want to tell Gaara about your parents?"
Naruto's hand stilled over his glass, then picked it up and raised his eyes. "There's no real proof, Sasuke. The file, Itachi's secret contact and some man he met in Japan? I'm supposed to bring this information to Gaara for what?"
They both sipped their drinks, eyes locked.
After a swallow, Sasuke took another drag from his smoke. "So you think there's no reason for Gaara to know."
"I think telling him and then having him think I'd rather go to Japan than California…" Naruto stared down into the booze in his hand and then took another drink.
"You don't want him to think you're giving up your chance to find your parents by going with him to the west coast."
"I'm not giving up anything." Naruto lifted his gaze and Sasuke couldn't tell if the shine in Naruto's eyes was due to the alcohol or -
"If I tell him, he's gonna say I should go to Japan and find out the truth."
"Because he wouldn't want you losing out on your chance -"
"I'm not losing out on anything," Naruto cut in. "Look, maybe Itachi… maybe he isn't wrong but that doesn't mean I've changed my mind." Naruto took another drink and dropped himself into a chair. "I know it's difficult to understand how I feel but there's nothing waiting for me in Japan. Gaara is the only family I need and I won't trade him for some hypothetical parents in a country I don't even remember."
Sasuke watched Naruto for a moment, chewing slow on the blond's choice of words, then crushed out his cigarette. "Naruto, I respect your decision but I'm having a hard time understanding it." He finished off his glass and leaned back into this chair. "I know you have your reasons for not wanting to fill Gaara in on all the details." Sasuke motioned to the alcohol and Naruto passed it over to him. "Word of advice?" Sasuke looked up and raised his brows. "Should he find out about your parents -"
"I told you, I don-"
"Fine, your hypothetical parents," Sasuke added and topped off his glass. "I doubt your redheaded friend will be happy you kept it from him."
"Tch, so now you know Gaara better than I do?" Naruto rolled his eyes and reached for the bottle.
"I can read him just like any other man."
Naruto lifted a brow at his lover and smirked.
"You know what I meant," Sasuke said with a huff and Naruto couldn't help but chuckle. "You've made it clear that he's your family. Would you be happy if he kept such a thing from you?"
"I hear what you're saying," Naruto said and took a drink. "And I'll face my choice if it comes to that."
Sasuke stared at him and then reached for his glass, sipping it slow. The summer evening was cool around them as they sat on the veranda drinking and smoking in silence. Somewhere in the distance a mockingbird called out and Sasuke looked up, noticing the full moon overhead. Taking his drink with him, he stood up and turned to stare out at the harbor. Though the day had been unbearably hot, the night brought a cool breeze and he closed his eyes as the wind circled its way through the porch and gently played in his hair. In a week's time, everything at Pierrepont would be in government hands and he and Itachi would be on their way to San Francisco, leaving Brooklyn and Naruto behind. Out on the sea, time was eternal. The ebb and flow bowed to no human and Sasuke wondered why it had taken him so long to understand that time was beyond his control. He could bend most any man to his will but slowing time, holding back its constant tidal flow was as fruitless as trying to dam the vast rage of the oceans.
What would life would be like in Japan? Unlike his brother he had no recollection of life there. New York, Brooklyn; this was his home. Sasuke stared down into the gold colored whiskey and felt a strange emotion well up inside him.
"You're thinking too loud, Uchiha," Naruto said from behind. Sasuke felt a pair of strong arms wrap around his waist and the thoughts he had been trying to decipher floated away.
"Hn." Sasuke set down his glass and threaded his fingers with Naruto's. "I was thinking how strange it will be living somewhere other than Brooklyn. When I bought Pierrepont, I did so with the belief I would live out the rest of my days here."
Naruto tightened his grip and nudged his face into the warmth of Sasuke's neck. "You'll be safe in Japan and out of reach from the feds." He planted kisses along the ivory slope of Sasuke's neck, sucking and biting soft at the flesh. "You told me once, if you were to lose it all tomorrow, you'd make the most out of living in a box under the Brooklyn Bridge." Naruto smirked against his skin and felt a soft rumble of laughter vibrate against his lips.
"I don't recall that conversation at all," Sasuke said flatly, trying to add a hard tone to his voice.
One of Naruto's hands slid lower, palming the growing hardness in Sasuke's slacks. "Maybe I can help jog your memory," he murmured low and then bit into the cords along Sasuke's neck, pinching the skin between his teeth.
"Sssss, Naruto…" Sasuke leaned his head back and reached behind him, taking hold of Naruto ass and pulling him closer. He could feel Naruto already working on his belt and pants and as soon as he had them open, Naruto shoved a hand in and wrapped it around Sasuke's already aching erection.
Sasuke dug his fingers into Naruto's ass and groaned.
"God, you're so hard," Naruto breathed into his ear. "I have plans for you tonight, Sasuke." His hand picked up pace and Sasuke grunted as he flexed his hips into Naruto's grip. "This time it's my turn to make you scream." He felt Sasuke shudder and he let go of his dick and brought his precum soaked fingers up to Sasuke's open mouth and pushed two in. Immediately Sasuke's tongue lapped at the taste as he closed his mouth around them and sucked causing Naruto moan with pleasure.
Forgotten was their earlier squabble along with tomorrow's worry. Once again both men felt the irresistible pull of one another, the need to be consumed, to lose themselves in their passion and drown in the heady bliss of their desires. Naruto pulled his hand away and Sasuke turned around, grabbing Naruto's face crushing their mouths together. The heat of their kiss ignited in an instant. They both licked the whiskey from each other's mouth, sucking the at the flavor, humming and panting; every pent up need from their long day breaking through like unquenchable hellfire.
Naruto buried his hands in Sasuke's midnight hair and yanked his head back right before sinking his teeth into the exposed skin at the base of his throat.
"Ungh shit," Sasuke panted and brought his hands to Naruto's chest, pushing him back hard and stepping out of his reach. A dark grin lifted at the corners of his mouth as he began walking into the study. He looked back at his out of breath lover and a gleam reached his eyes. "Let's find out who can make who scream first, hm?"
Sasuke disappeared and Naruto licked his lips, tugging on his tie and yanking it off as he followed Sasuke, spellbound and rock hard into the Uchiha's bedroom.
It had been the cool of the evening that drew Gaara to the backyard porch. When he returned from the club tired and worn out from the long day and from the never ending questions banging around his head about just what the hell else Naruto was keeping from him, Gaara headed straight for the kitchen. Yamato always seemed to leave leftovers for anyone looking for a late night snack and Gaara hoped to find something to fill his anxiety ridden stomach and help ease the ache in his head.
He knew Sakura would be waiting up for him but with so much crowding his thoughts, he didn't want to face her yet. Making quick work of preparing a roast chicken sandwich, Gaara brought his meal out to the porch to take advantage of the rare dip in the weather. He was two bites into his sandwich when a familiar voice floated down from the fourth floor veranda.
"I know my choice is still bothering you. I know you don't understand why I would choose California over travelling to Japan to meet two people who claim to be my parents but you have to try, Sasuke. I've made my choice."
Gaara froze in his chair even though the loud pounding of his heart made him want to get up and find somewhere -anywhere else to be at that moment.
Naruto found his parents? Gaara's mind scrambled. Why didn't Naruto say something? Just what the fuck was he thinking not wanting to see his parents? With every word that fell from the balcony above, Gaara's mind worked to keep up, latching onto to sentence after sentence while question after question clogged his mind, each battling for an answer as to why his best friend had kept this from him and why he was choosing to walk away from his once in a lifetime chance?
Gaara heard the conversation go quiet and a then a low murmur. Thinking the two men had found a new topic of conversation, Gaara grabbed his plate and headed back into the kitchen. He tossed the remains of his sandwich into the trash bin and his dish into the sink.
He needed to leave. Go for a drive or a walk, do something that would clear his head. Without a direction in mind, Gaara walked out of the kitchen to the main entrance of Pierrepont and out onto the front steps. He looked to the darkened streets and alleyways and was struck by how they no longer felt welcoming.
Everything had changed and the one person he had always been able to rely on and turn to when things felt uncertain was now a million miles away, lost in a reckless romance with a crime boss and no longer confiding in him.
The day he had been dreading was finally here. It was time for the two of them to stop running side by side, and though he had known this day would come eventually, he never dreamed he would end up being the one to have to set it motion.
Gaara let out a weary sigh, turned down the sidewalk and walked toward the distant street lamps that lit the far off dour roads of the Brooklyn borough. The bridge was visible through the dark, lit with lamps that flickered in and out like mocking stars begging for a wasted wish. Gaara pulled up the collar on his coat and headed toward them.
Still no where near being spent after Sasuke shoved him against the headboard and drove into him for over an hour and making him cum twice, Naruto turned the tables on the feisty Uchiha and gained the upperhand, pinning him to the bed face first and ass deliciously exposed. There was nothing more satisfying than getting Sasuke to relent and once Naruto had him restrained with arms behind his back, Sasuke acquiesced. A subtle compliance once Naruto released his wrists.
Ten minutes later Sasuke was riding him, dripping in sweat and looking down with those scorched fire-lit eyes, rolling his hips over and over, driving Naruto's cock deeper into himself. Sasuke's muscles flexed and spasmed with each thrust. The ruthless mob boss threw back his head while his sleek body kept its grinding pace and all Naruto could do was stare in breathless awe at the sight of Sasuke's fierce passion cascading around them both.
"God, Sasuke, you're so fucking sexy it makes me -" Not able to hold back, Naruto took hold of his hips, slick and glistened with sweat and began yanking him down as Naruto thrust up harder, angling for the sweet spot that would help his lover reach his climax.
Sasuke leaned back and planted his hands on Naruto's knees. "Ungh, right there, yesss…" Sasuke grunted out and Naruto moved one of his hands to jerk him off, hoping he would cum before Naruto lost his control and beat him to it.
"Cum for me, Sasuke," Naruto said out of breath with his eyes glued to the man now riding him with abandon. "God, I wanna watch you cum."
Sasuke lifted his head and stared down at Naruto, making his heart flutter. Lowering himself, Sasuke flattened his hands onto Naruto's chest and kissed him deep and hard.
With their sweat slicked bodies sliding at a manic pace, Naruto reached around Sasuke's hips and sank his fingers into the flesh of his lover's ass, gripping him hard as he pounded his cock up into him, feverishly working in time with the grunts and breath-filled pleadings falling from Sasuke's lips.
"Right there. Fuck yes -harder, Naruto, fuck me."
Every filthy request Sasuke groaned into Naruto's mouth only made him more delirious in his need to make Sasuke cum; to break that goddamn Uchiha demeanor that had him holding back shouts and cries of pleasure. Naruto didn't just want to make Sasuke scream, he wanted to make him unravel, to lose his mind and completely let go. Naruto was desperate for it.
Here and now was where Sasuke was his. Behind closed doors the two men belonged to no one else but each other. Here was where Sasuke's damn Uchiha reserve was cast aside for Naruto's eyes only; no stoicism, no hardened stares meant to keep his crew in line and his rivals fearful. Just Sasuke in unabashed ecstasy, open to Naruto and Naruto only; every beautiful facet of the dark haired mobster, his for the taking.
With their lust and sex reaching fever-pitch, Naruto grabbed Sasuke's hands and pinned them behind his back. The mobster let out a shocked grunt and fell forward on top of Naruto but before his mind could focus on what was happening, Naruto worked to hold both his wrists in one hand while his other reached up and closed around Sasuke's throat.
Holding him up and tightening his hold of Sasuke's the neck while his other hand gripped his wrists and pulled him harshly back, Naruto used what strength he had left to drive his cock up as hard as he could into Sasuke. He drank in every expression on his lover's face and watched intently as Sasuke's eyes rolled back and a pleading look of need slackened his normally stoic features.
Naruto loosened his hand around his lover's throat. "Tell me, Sasuke."
"Don't stop! Oh god, Naruto, fuck me harder!"
"Fuck, Sasuke, oh my god," Naruto growled and squeezed harder, almost cutting off his airway altogether. "Fucking cum for me!"
For a few seconds Sasuke's hips flexed into Naruto's thrusts then became erratic and his whole body spasmed and strained against his lover's hold. His dick untouched, spilled his seed onto Naruto's chest and Naruto held his grip, lowering him just enough to watch entranced as Sasuke's climax rocked through him. With mouth open, gasping -mewling incoherent words, Sasuke's dilated eyes went wide and welled with tears as the force of his orgasm rolled on and on.
Naruto continued to fuck him even as Sasuke half-sobbed through his never-ending climax.
"Naruto! Ungh god fuck!"
Not able to withstand the fluttered clenches around his dick or the beautiful sight of Sasuke in total thrall, Naruto finally came shouting Sasuke's name as he filled him with his cum. His vision darkened and he let go of his hold and Sasuke crashed into him boneless and exhausted.
The heat from their bodies rose like steam and Naruto lifted his arms and gripped Sasuke's waist as he lay on top of him, too spent to move but not ready to let the man go.
Sasuke lifted his head, brought his eyes up and stared at Naruto lying under him with matched fucked blown eyes and panting. Finding a little strength, Sasuke tried to slide off to give him some relief from his weight but Naruto gripped him tighter as he stared back at him, eyes fierce and dark.
Still shaky, Sasuke leaned in to kiss him. Naruto met his mouth with lazy, slow kisses, feeding on each of his lips before delving his tongue into his mouth, coaxing out soft moans. Weak, clumsy hands sought out the other's skin; both caressing arms and shoulders and hips, slow but eager for touch; a deep need to hold the connection. Sasuke cupped Naruto's face and Naruto coursed his fingers through Sasuke's sweat-drenched locks as they poured their emotions into their achingly slow kiss.
"Naruto," Sasuke whispered.
"I'm here. I'm…" Naruto squeezed his eyes shut.
Again, "Naruto," was all Sasuke could say, planting kisses across his lover's face and down his neck, trying to stall, to freeze time and hold the moment forever.
"Sasuke." Naruto's voice cracked and he arched his head back as Sasuke sucked stinging bruises into his skin. He blinked back the wetness that threatened to fall from his eyes held Sasuke tighter, trying to memorize his scent, his touch; the way he looked at the moment of release and did his best not to curse the day the beautiful Uchiha crashed into his life.
A moment later, Sasuke slid off and edged away, hissing at the sudden feel of emptiness as Naruto slipped out of him. "We should shower," he said and Naruto scanned the Uchiha's face.
"A long hot bath?" Naruto suggested and Sasuke hummed in agreement.
Running his hand across Naruto's chest, Sasuke pulled away to roll over and out of bed but Naruto reached for him and dragged him back, tugging him in close.
"You were amazing," Naruto said holding Sasuke tight against him.
Sasuke smirked. "You weren't so bad, yourself."
A soft chuckle left the blond and Sasuke again turned to head to the washroom. Naruto watched him get out of bed and grimace as he stood up to stretch. "A very long hot bath," Naruto said with a grin and Sasuke shot him a playful glare before making his way across the room.
Naruto's smile faltered as he got up to follow him. One week. God knows how many days or nights the two of them had left together. Next week would be an endless routine of prepping, secret meetings and dark dealings as they lined their ducks in a row for the upcoming showdown with Madara. Naruto followed Sasuke into the shower and his mind drifted to the meeting with the guys and then settled on Gaara. Tomorrow, he thought. Tomorrow I'll talk to him after we meet with Shika.
"Naruto?"
Looking up, Naruto saw Sasuke watching him. "Hm?"
"Everything alright?"
"Yeah," he said with a smile. "Just a bit tired from the workout you gave me." He climbed into the tub and pressed up against Sasuke. "Not sure I got enough gas left for another go 'round."
Sasuke smirked. "We'll see about that," he said and kissed him while his hands slid down Naruto's back to take hold of his ass and grab hold.
"Mmm," Naruto hummed and let his worries drift away as his lover moved him back against the shower wall, taking him once more into oblivion where there were no more meetings, no more secrets and where only the two of them, locked together in the here and now, mattered.
To be continued.
A/N: Well, I really hope you enjoyed this chapter. I'm starting a new job in a week so I don't know when the next chapter will be done BUT I do know I will work on it every chance I get. Thank you for sticking with me, Dear Reader and I hope you're ready for the final showdown. Blessings to you all. Love, Tandy.