hello peoples...what is up? how's everyone's summer going? mine's gone like this, soccer camp, swim lessons, soccer practice, day camp, oh not to mention a 9-10 hour work day...you wouldn't believe how much writing i've gotten done while sitting on the sidelines. the problem comes in when i get home, cause then it's baths, make dinner, clean up, some family time, then i get to read, and by then i don't really have the energy to type all the stuff i've written.
i have had time to read and as always, i've got like three story recommendations...the first is Becoming Inuzuka, by The Rabid Bunny. i know, i know, i've told you guys about this story before, but it's complete. And if you truly are a KibaxSakura fan you'd run over there and read it...as a matter of fact, if you don't read it...just stop reading this story. i mean it, shoo, get going...why cause that story is AMAZINGLY WONDERFUL!
the next two stories i want to suggest are Yaoi story so if you don't like skip this paragraph. the first is, 'Must Love Dogs' by snuggled. it's KibaxShino, AU, and really well written. the aspects of their ninja personalities in this story are fantastic. the third is 'Lonely Faces, (aka-Roommates),' by NaughtyTech. it's KibaxNaruto, and dun dun dun, it's 19 chapters and isn't just PWP. it has a great plot! so those are my recommendations.
as my gift to you, i'm furiously working on typing the next chapter, and by that i mean typing it from my notebook. if all goes as planned, i should be able to post it by the end of the week...so with that said, on with the chapter!
oh and if it wasn't bad enough with all those KibaxHinata stories out there, she's starting to creep over into the Shino filter! i mean come on hinata, get away from my team 8 boys!! and if i see her near kankuro, i may lose it!
CHAPTER THIRTY SIX. Versus.
Zaku sat at the kitchen table staring at his plate. He sighed and stood placing the empty plate in the sink. His father was feeling better, and had returned to the third shift job he had.
"Dad, I'm late. I have to go," the senior called in the direction of his dad's bedroom. He peaked his head in to make sure he heard him. His father was for the most part a patient man, but when angered he could be quite scary. "Dad, did you hear me?"
"Yes Zaku kun, I did. Did your brother call," the man asked from under the blanket.
"Yes, but he didn't want me to wake you." Zaku waited. This would not sit well with his father.
"I told you it was important that I talk to him. Who is your father, Kabuto or me," the anger in his voice apparent. "Can't you follow a simple request? Or is your world so wrapped up in that girl who cares nothing for you?"
Zaku opened his mouth to answer, but couldn't. He didn't know how his father had found out about Sakura.
"You are training to be a ninja, yet you still attach yourself to useless emotions," his father's voice getting some what stronger. "She doesn't want you, you only have your brother and me. You will do well to remember that."
"Hai father." Zaku replied. He turned and left the room. Sometimes he wondered why his dad had even adopted him. He could be so cold and gruff, but Zaku loved him. As he left he double checked to make sure the journal he kept was with him. The counselor he saw had suggested he write his feelings down. Like she could possibly understand what was going on with him, but if it help get him through the hokage's punishment from the Ino incident he was willing to do it.
He never thought the woman would check to see if he was writing it. So he was stuck putting stupid things in there at first. But the more he got to know Sakura, the longer his entries became. He had resolved to keeping it with him at all times. It was under his pillow at night, and even in the bathroom with him. How his father found out about Sakura, he couldn't figure out.
Now his father was talking of moving again, this time with his brother Kabuto. He didn't understand. Soon he would be a ninja and could help with the bills, so money wasn't the problem. He knew he couldn't go with his father. They were talking of going back to Rice Country. His future was here in Konoha as a shinobi. If Zaku lack for many things, confidence was not one of them. With the team he had this year, passing the genin test would be easy for him.
The train slowed, and he boarded with the other passengers. There was one goal he wanted to achieve, but for the moment he took the backseat to the Inuzuka. He knew that Sakura was the one he could love for a lifetime, but getting her to love him was the challenge. There was nothing he wouldn't do for her. Good thing he loved a challenge. A smile began to cover his face, as hope swelled in his heart at the possibility of loving her. The black notebook was pulled from his bag, and he thumbed the pages. The latest entry was what caught his eye. A smile crossed his face thinking of when he could play Sakura's hero.
There was a party at Kototaru the past Saturday. Zaku met up with three of the guys he normally hung out with. His friends were asses, and he knew that. They were sitting around looking at which girl they weren't able to get, but bragging about how they could rock said girl's world. Sakura had been laughing with Shikamaru over something. He was such a waste in Zaku's opinion. So freakin smart, and he did nothing with it. At first he thought Shikamaru had some type of crush on Sakura. But no he was loyal to a fault to his friend, and if he did like her the Nara did a damn good job of hiding it.
It looked as if Nara and Sakura were close as friends. It wasn't just Shikamaru either, but Shino was close to her also. That guy creped him out. Those bugs, all over. She hugged him everyday. How could any girl touch him was beyond Zaku's grasp. That just goes to show how important clan status was in this village. He was a heir, and some girls would do anything to be with one.
The other thing that bothered him not only about Shino, but Shikamaru and Neji also was the way they always watched him around Sakura. He felt as if they were analyzing his every move when near her. All because of that Yamanaka bitch. He didn't rape her. It was consensual. He didn't give a damn what she said. She said she wanted him, she said yes, she took his pants off, she straddled him, and when he was ready to cum she said no.
As far as her fat ass boyfriend, Zaku held no hard feelings for the Akamichi. Sure because of their confrontation, Zaku was hospitalized, but he understood. If Sakura had come to him saying someone did that to her, he'd probably beat the shit out of him too. As far as he was concerned, fat ass had acted accordingly. He wished it had turned out differently because in the beginning of their dating, he really liked Ino. Now he could say he was kinda glad. That whole ordeal led to him being placed on Sakura's team, and nothing compared to the feeling he felt for her.
Sakura had changed him. Those little glances in math class, watching her whisper yell at a sleeping Shikamaru. Her face glowed when she smiled, or how her eyebrows furrowed when she tried to figure out a problem. Sakura made him think about things differently. Her clumsiness, how she was able to be a ninja was beyond him, her laugh, made him smile, and her temper, well that made him cringe like every other boy. Their relationship was just a little weird. Naruto and Sakura acknowledged him when in school or out in public. This was because of their training as a team. While Naruto merely spoke to Zaku, Sakura would actually have conversations with the senior. Another reason she had worked her way into his heart. Even being loyal to her friends, she was still loyal to her teammate.
The music was loud and people were dancing. One song turned into another, with Sakura and Shikamaru leaving the dance floor. That in itself was a miracle. Nara dancing? The junior was wearing low rise jeans, and a black top with spaghetti straps. In other words sexy, with that tattoo exposed and the jeans barely covering that sweet divide at the top of her ass. Kiba had not arrived yet, due to training with his cousin. At least that's what Zaku overheard Shino tell Sakura. It didn't matter, with Nara, Aburame, and Uzumaki there it was as if she had her own security. Not that she needed it with that inhuman strength of hers. She moved toward the balcony, for cooler air. Zaku got up and watched her, but kept his distance.
He had long stopped following her home or watching her from his hidden perch. It had started to consume him. He was becoming obsessed with her, and he was scared how far he would go to be with her. 'Shit,' he thought, 'who knew therapy worked.' For the moment though, he was happy just to see her. From where he moved he could see her looking out over the village, a small breeze moving her hair. Someone bumped into him, and he turned toward the offender.
"Excuse me, Zaku senpai," the freshman apologized. He looked up at the older boy.
"No problem Drayo," he assured him. He looked back to the balcony and saw joining Sakura were three guys. One he recognized as a senior from the year before. Bin? Bayeo? Bashi? He couldn't remember the guy's name. It was pretty obvious why they were out there. He turned to go out to the balcony under the premise of checking on his teammate.
"Hey Pink, does everything match that hair on your head?" the former student asked. He was the shortest of the group, but still at least six feet. The ironic part was that Zaku knew if necessary Sakura could still take him down.
"Funny Theo," the blond laughed.
'Awh yeah, Theo.' Zaku thought.
When Zaku got closer he also recognized the other two as graduates also. The Haski brothers. Well, barely graduates. Not known for their brain prowess, the oldest being left back a year. They were a few inches taller and skinnier than Theo, and had white blond hair. Theo had brown hair to his shoulders, and was stockier. Zaku was still confident he could handle both guys if necessary.
"Gee, that's original. I've never heard that," she answered sarcasticaly. She rolled her eyes, and a huff passed her mouth.
What was bothering Zaku was how the four of them were standing on the balcony. Sakura had not left herself an out. The three had boxed her in, and Zaku sighed because she knew better.
The Haski bothers laughed at the disinterest Sakura had in Theo.
"I still think you should give me a chance to find out," he took one step closer to her. "Don't be so rude."
Sakura got a quick glance at her bearings, and then noticed her mistake.
"I don't think my boyfriend would like that, so if you don't mind." Sakura moved to pass him.
Theo moved toward her. She was backed against the balcony rail and placed his hands on both sides of her.
"Boyfriend, huh? I don't see a boyfriend around here," he smiled. "Do you guys?"
"Nope, maybe it was that Nara bitch she was dancing with," the oldest brother replied.
"That can't be right, she's way to pretty for one of them." Theo leaned closer.
"I said move, please." Sakura commanded, a threat sounding in her voice.
"Aren't you just too cute." Theo laughed. Sakura pushed him to move out of her way. She managed to get past him, but he grabbed her arm. "Really Pink, I just want us to have a little fun."
Zaku had heard enough moved out onto the balcony.
"Let go of me you asshole." Sakura pushed him harder.
"Now you're just being mean." Theo pushed her back.
"She said to let her go." Zaku said as he moved toward them.
"Who's this bitch?" Theo asked. One of the Haski brothers grabbed him, Zaku swung at him connecting with his face. The other swung at Zaku, landing a punch in his face. The senior hit the second brother and moved to Theo.
"ZAKU!" Sakura screamed. Zaku was on Theo pushing him against the railing, almost over it.
"The young lady said leave her the fuck alone, are you deaf?" Zaku said in Theo's face.
The two other guys tried to grab Zaku, but Toku Inuzkua held the eldest slamming him into the wall. Ari, the youngest, was thrown onto the ground by Kotetsu.
Kiba came through the doorway not just fast, but furious. He leaned in and growled into Theo's ear.
"Give me a reason not to help him from throwing your fuckin body over this balcony, you fuckin piece of shit." Kiba's fangs bared and his eyes narrowed.
Zaku's grip tigthened even more, and Theo's face became pale.
"Zaku, please," the pink haired girl screamed. "Let him go."
A moment later Shino and Shikamaru appeared in the doorway to keep any of Theo's other friends from trying to interfere.
"You better thank God, she's an angel." Zaku said. The death grip he held on Theo's shirt began to loosen and the color started to return to his face. Theo stood nervously looking from Zaku to Kiba.
"She might be, but I'm not." Kiba punched the older teen and he fell to the cement floor. Blood gushed from his mouth, and Kiba leaned down to him. "If you so much as look at my girl again, I will fuckin kill you!"
"Kiba, please! I'm ok." Sakura pulled at him. Kiba got up and kicked Theo once.
Toku and Kotetsu released the other two. Shino looked at them, "You should probably leave now."
The brothers picked up Theo and left quickly. Sakura went to Zaku immediately pulling him down to a sitting position on the floor. Her hand went to his face to heal the wound that was slowly getting larger. The chakra started to flow from her hand, and warmed his face. It soothed him, as he began to calm down.
He liked being this close to her. Kiba came over giving Zaku a frown, sensing the attraction the senior had for Sakura.
"Babe, are you ok?" Kiba asked. He looked her over.
"I'm fine," she answered. Her face set in concentration. She continued her work.
"Are you sure," his face was covered with worry.
"I'm positive. I promise." Sakura smiled at him. The smile reassured Kiba and made Zaku jealous. He was the one there for Sakura when she needed him. Her bastard boyfriend was no where to be found. "Okay Zaku, you're good. Thanks so much for your help."
There. She smiled at him. Acknowledged him. His heart leaped just a little. 'She's so beautiful.' He wanted to touch her, or have her continue to touch him. A blush crossed his face, and a growl came from Toku. Kiba had noticed this as well, letting out his own possessive growl.
The Inuzuka heir nearly choked on the words he was about to say, "Thanks for helping her."
Zaku didn't want Kiba's gratitude. He wanted Kiba's girl. "No problem. She was by herself. Somebody had to help her. She's my teammate after all," he spit out.
Kiba felt the challenge being pushed on him. The famous hot temper of the canine clan started to flare. Toku sensed this as well, and was ready to back up Kiba if needed. Kotetsu, Shino, and Shikamaru didn't need an Inuzuka sense of smell to predict what was about to happen.
Sakura interjected, "Yes that's what teammates are for. Thank you again Zaku."
She got to her feet, "Kiba let's go."
He didn't move at first.
"Yeah, we need to find Naruto." Shino said. "Let's go."
She touched his shoulder, and that brought him back to reality. He still held an eye lock with Zaku as he stood. Kiba placed his hand on the small of her back, claiming her. The couple walked back into the club.
"Thanks for looking out man, but it doesn't change anything." Shikamaru said looking at him. "I do suggest you not ever challenge Kiba like that again."
The memory faded away, and Zaku thought of how he protected her when her own friends and boyfriend could not.
The senior looked out the window watching the birds fly off in the distance. His memories of her and the hope of her returning his love, were two thoughts that kept him going. This weekend he hand her practically to himself, with the training mission taking place.
A large smile crossed his face as he got off the train.
XXXXXXX
The prom committee finished it's last piece of business, and Sakura dashed from the room to two classrooms down the hall. Here the graduation committee was meeting. Shikamaru looked bored as always, and Neji was going over the list of possible speakers for the ceremony. Shino was taking notes. Sakura sat beside Shikamaru and nudged him to stay awake. The decisions made, and the bell sounded for homeroom. A feeling of hurriedness set the pace for the remainder of her week.
She wondered how Friday came so quickly, as she packed her bag for the training mission Kakashi was taking them on. Kiba had pouted and whined the entire week about her being gone, but he knew there was nothing he could do to change it. He and Naruto played the latest guitar video game, as she double checked both her and Naruto's bags.
"Naruto niisan it's time to go." Sakura poked him.
"Just let me finish this," he answered. He continued the game.
"No, now. Kakashi niisan will have a fit if we're late. Not that he'll show up on time, but still." Sakura poked her brother again.
"Fine," he stopped the game and turned it off. "You didn't have to check my bag again. I packed everything."
"Hmph." Sakura rolled her eyes. "Then why weren't there any underwear?"
"Oh, yeah. I knew I forgot something." Naruto posted a sheepish grin across his face.
"You dumb ass." Kiba laughed. He walked over to his girlfriend, picking up her bag. "Be careful, and what's the sleeping arrangements?"
"Silly boy, I'm in the tent with Kakashi niisan." Sakura smiled at him. She leaned back into his chest as the pair walked to the living room. Naruto was on the phone with Hinata. "Let's go, Naruto niisan!"
Once outside the apartment Kiba kissed her again.
"I'll see you Sunday." Sakura whispered in his ear.
"Why do I feel like the girl getting left behind," he asked. He kissed her once more before guiding her down the stairs. "Bye guys."
"Bye," the Uzumaki siblings said walking in the opposite direction.
Sunday was much like Saturday, which was just like Friday night. A thunderstorm over Konoha like no other. It rained for nearly two days straight, and the thunder and lightning barely let up from the village. Kiba was worried the entire time. He knew if Shibi still expected him to train there was no way that Kakashi had called off the training mission. It was expected rain or not for missions to be completed.
Tsunade wasn't too surprised to find the Inuzuka heir on her doorstep late Sunday afternoon.
"Sakura isn't back yet, but come on in and wait," she offered. The medic smiled at him as he came in soaked. "Go to Naruto's room and grab something of his that's dry. I'm doing laundry so hand me those."
"Ok." Kiba answered. He was a little uncomfortable with Tsunade. Meeting a girl's mom was still new to him, so he didn't really know how to talk to her. He knew how to talk to Shino's mom. And it was completely different than he'd talk to his own mom. Talking to Jiraiya was also pretty easy. Of course he's know him since grade two, and he's a guy.
"Kiba, you don't have to be nervous around me." Tsunade said to him. "I have a feeling we'll be around each other a lot."
Kiba blushed slightly, "Hai Tsunade san. It's just new to me. I've never had to be around the parents before."
"I understand, now go change. Are you hungry?"
"Ok, and yes." Kiba appreciated Tsunade trying to make him more comfortable. After eating a sandwich, Kiba started to drift off to sleep on the couch. Tsunade busied herself with ironing Naruto and Sakura's school uniforms while watching tv. The key in the lock, caused Kiba to stir. The pair tried their best to hold back laughter at the teen girl.
The pink hair that was normally bright, was matted to her head. Her clothes clung to her, and she dropped the bag on the floor with a thud. Her lips in a pout, as her boyfriend and mom were fighting a losing battle holding their laughter.
"Welcome home dear. How was your training mission?" Tsunade attempted to keep a straight face.
"Just lovely mother." Sakura looked at the two, her eye twitching. "What's so funny?"
"Nothing at all, little one." Kiba laughed. "Did you get a little wet?"
"Funny, very funny." Sakura entered the living room.
"Where's your brother?" Tsunade continued. She knew Sakura's attitude and this was going to be a long night.
"At dad's, it's closer to Hinata chan's," Sakura began to walk to her room.
"Sakura you're tracking water all over," her mother said.
"I can't just get naked right here can I?" Sakura snapped and continued to her room, slamming the door.
"Someone's pissy. You sure you want to date her?" Tsunade looked over at him. She picked up the starch and sprayed one of Sakura's blouses.
"It is a little scary." Kiba answered. He was a little worried about her. Her scent gave off that something more than rain was bothering her.
"She'll be fine. Let her stew, and whatever is bothering her will come out before you leave. Trust me, she just needs to work it out first." Tsunade offered.
"Okay."
After fifteen minutes she returned from her bedroom and sat beside Kiba on the couch. Tsunade felt sorry for her youngest child, and went to make her something to eat.
"What's wrong?" Kiba turned to her. The tv was playing a drama that Tsunade enjoyed.
"Nothing." Sakura answered. She crossed her legs onto the couch and stared off into space. Her body language cut Kiba off.
"Yeah, that sounds like nothing." Kiba turned her head toward him.
"It's nothing. I'm just hungry," she said.
Kiba could take the hint and let her be. Eventually she would tell him. What he really wanted was to hug her and comfort her. The scent coming from her felt like shame and disappointment. He followed Tsunade's advice.
A knock on the door turned their heads. Tsunade answered the door, to see Kakashi standing there.
"Kakashi kun, come on in. Wet weekend?" Tsunade spoke.
He stood in the doorway for a moment. The copy nin nodded yes to his aunt's questioned. His clothing dry indicated he had already been home to change. The sensei stopped before entering the living room.
"Sakura chan," he whispered just loud enough for her to hear.
Sakura had stiffened at the announcement of him at the door, and when he said her name a chill went down her spine. She slowly turned her head to the sound of her name.
Kiba felt the sudden shift in her emotions. Before she was discouraged and ashamed, but now she was sad. Terribly sad. She stood quickly and jumped over the back of the couch and into her cousin's arms. Sobs echoing through the apartment.
Kakashi embraced her tightly, and rubbed her back in a comforting way.
"It's okay Sakura chan, it's ok," he spoke softly into her hair.
Kiba and Tsunade stared at the teacher and student.
"I"m so sorry," she got out through sobs.
"I know, I know." Kakashi answered. Kiba was surprised to feel such a strong feeling of sadness from Kakashi. He would have bet the jounin was close to tears himself. "That's why it's a training exercise. Calm yourself."
Sakura released him and pulled her hand through her hair. She was still shaking a little but began to calm.
"Did you get your mother to look at your back?" Kakashi asked as he went to the love seat to sit down.
"No," Sakura answered. Her head fell to the floor. Tsunade pulled up the t shirt Sakura was wearing to reveal two large bandages covering a wound along her spine.
"What the hell?" Tsunade asked. Kiba's eyes grew large. He was surprised he could not smell the wound.
Tsunade went into medic mode. "Kiba go to the hall closet and get the toolbox there. It's a first aid kit."
She removed the bandages and asessed the large wound. Kiba returned and saw the scab had already began to form over what looked like a burn.
"Care to tell me what happened?" Tsunade asked. She sounded just like a doctor, and started taking the items from Kiba's hands to clean the wound.
"Sometimes the best way to learn that fire is hot is to touch it." Kakashi offered. Tsunade understood and did not question any more.
"Grab your food and go to your room and eat." Tsunade finished cleaning and healing the wound.
She did as told with Kiba behind her. When they sat on the bed, Kiba looked at her.
"Wanna talk about it?" Kiba asked. Sakura went on the tell him how she royally screwed up and almost cost both Naruto and Zaku their lives. Then to top if off, Kakashi yelled at her for a solid two hours. She felt worthless and hurt. Her boyfriend listened, then shared a few of his own mishaps to make her feel better. And in a final attempt to help her feel good, he began kissing her slowly.
She settled in his arms, while he was careful of her back. The couple fell fast asleep. The storm outside was still raging, and at eleven Tsunade sent Kiba to Naruto's room to sleep, and a copy nin was resting comfortably on the couch.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
"SHIKAMARU!! How could you forget, how?!" Sakura exclaimed. He rubbed his temples. "We need those posters! The election is coming up soon!"
Students moved out of the way of the cherry blossoms rage.
"Listen just quit bitchin! I said I would do them," he retorted back. He leaned on the lockers and slid down.
"You said that a week ago, and the week before that! You are so freakin lazy!" Sakura pounded on her locker. A small dent appearing.
"You sound like my mom. Will you just shut it!" Shikamaru turned to Kiba, "Does she have an off button?"
Kiba smiled leaning on the locker beside his girlfriend.
"Maybe I should just kick your ass like your mom," Sakura kicked him in the leg and walked off mumbling how worthless boys were.
She passed through the senior hallway, looking for her victim. She approached Ayame and gave her a quick smile.
"Hi Ayame senpai, have you seen Zaku senpai?" Sakura asked. She turned her neck looking through the crowd of students. "He was suppose to meet me thirty minutes ago."
"No, I haven't Sakura chan. But you know how boys are," the girl with the purplish tint to her hair opened her locker and placed her books inside.
"Exactly, so stupid. They make plans then screw them completely up. I miss having you around at lunch." Sakura scanned the halls once again.
"I know. I miss you girls too, but Shikamaru kun and I didn't work out," she looked in the mirror on her locker door.
"Really, why didn't you like him?" Sakura asked.
"Yeah, I did but I don't think he likes me. He didn't seem interested," she opened her lip gloss turning the tube to apply it.
"That's kinda confusing then." Sakura wrinkled her nose. "He talked about you for a at least a week after you stopped eating with us."
'Are you seriously going to tell this girl that lie?' Inner Sakura asked.
'The question is will she believe it?' Sakura answered herself. 'And it's not a complete lie.'
'Oh I guess if you count him saying she had bad breath and horrible teeth, AND he had the scars on his crotch to prove it, then yeah he did talk about her.' Inner Sakura commented, rolling her eyes.
'Just be quiet, we've got work to do.' Sakura pushed her.
"He did?" Ayame's voice picked up and her eyes got a gleam in them.
"It's just hard for him, and all the other guys. I've learned that being around them." Sakura leaned on the locker. Just to sound convincing, she added, "Where is Zaku, I've got stuff to do."
"What do you mean," she closed the lip gloss and placed it in a make up bag.
"They have so much pressure on them. Make good grades, be at the top of the shinobi class, clan duties, and a lot of other stuff. Then they have so many girls throwing themselves at them, it's hard to know which ones are really interested in them." Sakura said. There was truth to that statement.
"I never thought about how much pressure he's under. He just seems so relaxed and bored all the time." Ayame gave herself one last check before closing the locker.
"He's just really weird about it. Like right now we've go so much with graduation committee, exams, and stuff for the ninja arts class. Plus posters for the student body election for the two of us." Sakura set the trap. "Then there's prom. I know he's narrowed it down to three girls, but he can't decide. But I know for a fact one of us is on that list, but he'd kill me if he knew I said that. He likes girls that are subtle, and let him know they care by simple actions, not throwing themselves to him. He notices the small things."
Sakura gave Ayame a little wink. Ayame blushed thinking she was one of the girls.
"But as always there's a problem. If his mom knew he hadn't done those posters she'd freak, and if she knew he hadn't mastered the last jutsu his dad taught him, she probably wouldn't let him go to prom." Sakura waited. "It's insane the amount of stuff we have to do this time of year."
"It sounds like. I'm lucky to go to beauty school next year."
"Sounds like I know the perfect hook up for my nails then," Sakura smiled. "I guess I'd better go, I do miss you at lunch. You were just the quiet kinda girl he liked too. So who are you going to prom with?"
"Oh, I don't have a date yet. I'm assuming you are going with Kiba?" Ayame commented.
"Yup, I love that dog boy," the junior laughed. "Well good luck on your date search. I'm off to prod a certain Nara boy about our posters. Don't forget about my nails."
Sakura waved and walked off. She walked through the open doors, back to her friends.
"Better?" Kiba wrapped her hand in his.
"We'll see in a few minutes." She answered.
"Why the hell were you over there in the first place?" Shikamaru asked.
After five minutes, Ayame walked through the junior hall.
"Hello everyone," she spoke. The guys greeted her.
"Shika, the student body election is in three weeks, I haven't seen any posters up for you. I was thinking I could help you out by doing them for you and Sakura chan, since you are running together." Ayame gave him a coy smile. "I know how busy you are this time of year."
"Okay." Shikamaru said a little confused.
"No strings attached," she smiled and stood in a position that gave him the ability to admire her legs. "I just think you could use a little help. I'll have them done in two days. Bye guys."
With that she walked off, not before giving him a quick wink, and a smirk to Sakura.
"What the hell was that about?" Shikamaru asked. He looked at Sakura.
"We've got our posters don't we, so as you would say, shut it." Sakura glared at him.
"Sakura, I have two papers that need to be typed, can you help me with that?" Shino requested. He raised his eyebrows.
"Me too." Kiba chimed in and squeezed her hand.
"I'll see what I can do Shino, but you are outta luck." Sakura pointed to Kiba with her other hand.
"But babe I really don't want to type them," Kiba began to pout just a little.
"I can't suggest the possibility of you having sex with someone else now can I? Unless you want me to?" Sakura asked. She looked him in the eye.
"Uh no little one, that's ok." Kiba answered.
That afternoon the students waited outside the school for their turn at the boating exercise the ninja arts class was participating in. The man made lake held three different types of boats the students would need to be able to operate.
The advantage to this was an afternoon swimming in the lake as part of the water training unit. The girls sat in the grass, wearing shorts over their school issued swimsuits. The guys were goofing off climbing trees and ambushing each other. With the exception of one in training shadow nin, who was reclined on he grass to watch the clouds.
Gai sensei was walking around leading a group of students on how to rig the sails. The girls were still in shock over the super tight speedo that he was wearing. The green spandex hugged his body a little too much for most of the students liking.
"Tenten, what is wrong with your sensei?" Ino asked. Each girls' face contorted as the jounin was bending over to help a student.
Tenten's face was covered in a deep red blush. "I don't know."
"Oh dear God," was all Sakura could manage to say over and over. Hinata couldn't even look at the man.
"It's just too much." Ino shook her head. She pulled another blade of grass from the ground splitting it in two.
"It's not like we can all have hot senseis like Itachi or Kakashi." Tenten snapped.
"I beg you guys not to start this conversation," Sakura stated.
"True. Sakura you did get lucky there. Kakashi is smokin hot," the blond piped in. "Asuma sensei is cute also."
"Yeah, I'd stare at Kakashi sensei all the time if I were you," Tenten said.
"Guys please, that's gross on so many levels. Kakashi sensei is my sensei. I can't think of him like that." Sakura said. She looked to Hinata for some help.
Hinata continue to smile out of amusement.
"Oh please don't tell me you've never thought of what he looks like without that mask, or anything else for that matter." Tenten continued.
Sakura's face was horrified. And Hinata couldn't stiffle the giggles and clutched her sides.
'We have seen him without the shirt and the mask.' Inner Sakura stated.
"Don't you start too!' Sakura exclaimed to herself.
'Cousin or not, he's still cute. Why can't I be in her head?' Inner Sakura pointed to Ino.
"Oh please Sakura, I'd melt if I saw him au natural! Even you aren't that innocent!" Ino began again. "I mean come on, look at the size of his feet, their huge! I'm getting excited just thinking about it!"
"You know what they say about men with big feet," Tenten made a gesture with her hands about the possible length of the copy nin.
Sakura's face went from slightly pink, to all out red. "What they wear big shoes," she commented.
"Exactly, and who doesn't want a with big, long, strong, shoes." Ino laughed, fanning herself.
Sakura elbowed Ino and nodded toward the Nara heir laying about five feet from them. Shika opened his eyes when the silence had taken over.
"What the hell is wrong with you four!" Shikamaru screamed as they stared at his feet, smiling. Then a roar of laughter burst from them.
"No wonder they keep coming back," Ino said between gales of laughter.
"What's going on over here?" Naruto asked sitting beside Hinata, who had tears rolling down her face.
"They're all fuckin perverts!" Shika said rolling over.
"I'm sure we have no clue what he's talking about." Tenten said, while each girl examined the feet of the guys in front of them.
xxxxxxxxxx
Tsunade and Sakura stood at a stalemate.
"That dress is horrible," Sakura looked at her mother. "It's so old fashion."
"Sakura this dress is elegant." Tsunade held the light purple dress up to Sakura.
"Ugh, don't put that up to me. And that color, Mom honestly!" Sakura gasped.
The saleslady let a grin slip. Tsunade and Sakura were the fifteenth mother/daughter in the shop that day. They were also the fifteenth mother and daughter to disagree about a dress. This time however, Kisa agreed with the pink haired daughter.
'Light purple with that hair color. The mom must be color blind.' Kisa thought. She could see her lunch break slipping away.
"Quit being difficult." Tsunade snapped.
"Difficult! I'm not being difficult, but have you noticed the color of my HAIR?" Sakura snapped back, pointing the locks on her hair. "I like this one."
Sakura held a long black dress with a split up to the thigh. The neckline cut very low and an open back.
"Black? Sakura it's a prom, not a funeral." Tsunade replied to the dress. "Anyway you don't have the chest to hold up that dress."
"MOTHER!" Sakura's cheeks burned bright red.
"You don't, it's obvious," the medic nin smiled slyly. Tsunade felt just a little guilty over the below the belt cheap shot.
"You didn't have to say it out loud." Sakura subconsciously put the other dress over her chest.
"You have other qualities, honey. You're smart and pretty." Tsunade tried to amend.
"I'm sure the first thing Kiba thought when he saw me was, 'Man she looks smart, gotta get to know her. Wonder how big her brain is?' Sakura sniped and looked away, rolling her eyes as she did it.
"Plus that split and neckline will not go over with, well you know what I mean." Tsunade added.
Sakura knew she meant her father, and rolled her eyes. "That didn't matter before."
"It does now, so don't start." Tsunade's eyes narrowed. She held the purple dress up again.
Just as stubborn, Sakura held the black dress again. Green eyes locked with hazel.
Kisa could see her lunch getting pushed back further and further.
"Sweetheart, I think I'm in a rather difficult position," the seasoned sales lady began. "Your mother is right that dress it exquist. It's hand made and came in from Moon Country. It was one of the few dresses completed, by one of their top designers before he died."
Tsunade knew what that meant. An imported dress meant an imported price. Jiraiya would flip. She tried to sneak a peak at the price tag. The tag was empty, which meant it was at least one thousand dollars.
"But dear you also have a good eye for what is trendy. Black has become our most popular color this season. It's so formal and elegant." Yuki smiled looking at the dress Sakura held. "And we have some 'helpers' to fill out that chest."
Sakura blushed at the idea of a padded bra, but it worried Sakura about the color being so popular. "What to you mean popular, just how many have you sold?"
"Today, six I think." Kisa answered. She attempted to straighten the racks of dresses.
Sakura frowned. The black dress was no longer appealing.
"You know ladies, I do have another option," Kisa suggested. "I can honestly say we have not sold any this color."
Kisa stepped to the back and returned with a white dress in her hand. The pair oohed and awhed over the elegantly stitched dress. Tsunade noticed the price wouldn't give Jiraiya heart attack.
"Go try it on," Tsunade encouraged.
"Who's her date, if I may ask?" Kisa said to Tsunade.
"Inuzuka Kiba, her boyfriend." Tsunade answered eyeing a red dress that would definitely make Jiraiya's mouth drop.
"The Inuzuka heir? I bet they make a great looking couple." Kisa commented.
Sakura stepped out of the dressing room, smiling. The white dress had spaghetti straps, and a split that went up to her mid thigh. The fabric going up the split was ruffled and it fit Sakura perfectly. Tsunade smiled as she looked at her daughter.
Twenty minutes later Yuki was smiling as she bit in her lunch.
Jiraiya sat at the table paying bills. He sighed when he looked at the credit card bills of the twins. 'How much ramen does that boy eat?' Jiraiya thought to himself, staring at the napping jinchuuriki on the couch. His eye twitching at the amount of money the twins spent per month. The plans for the home were going on schedule, and Kakashi had finalized his blueprints with the contractor to start on his house next to theirs. Jiraiya was pleased that his nephew would be living next door to the family. The toad sage knew that Naruto when he married, would also build a home there. The Uzumaki land was being used again. A feeling of family pride touched his chest.
Just as he wrote the last cheek, to pay for Sakura's shoe addiction, his wife and daughter entered the apartment. They each had at least four bags, and a young man followed them carrying even more.
"What is ALL THIS?" Jiraiya exclaimed. He jumped up from the table.
"It's stuff for the prom." Tsunade answered placing some of the bags on the couch beside her sleeping son.
"She doesn't need THAT much stuff, it's just a dance!"
Sakura escaped to her room, with a few bags.
"Don't be silly hun, some of this is Naruto's." Tsunade pulled a fifty dollar bill from her purse and handed it to the boy placing the bags down.
"He doesn't need anything either!" The budget that Jiraiya had worked on for the past week was shot to shit.
"He needed a tux, and it was cheaper to buy one than to continue renting each time. Then they need shoes, and Sakura needs accessories." Tsunade looked around making sure the bags were inside, "Thank you Haru kun."
"You're welcome Haruno san, anytime you need help let me know," he beamed leaving the apartment. "Bye Sakura san."
"How much did you just give him?" Jiraiya's heart was racing in his chest.
"If your lazy son had stayed to help, I wouldn't have had to have anyone help with the bags." Tsunade began separating the few items she had purchased for herself. Naruto stirred on the couch at the noise level.
"Hey ma, is that my stuff," he reached for the bag from the men's store, then went to Sakura's room.
"No, not buying all this stuff would have been better." Jiraiya fell back on a spot on the couch.
"But honey, wouldn't you like to see me in this?" Tsunade coyed into his ear. He could see a piece of the red fabric from the dress shop.
"Maybe," he got up and followed her into the bedroom pouting the whole way.
So now the prom is coming up...i bet kiba looks great in a tux. I'm still typing here instead of the next chapter...i guess I should just stop the a/n here.
Terri...hey review if you want. I want to say thanks to everyone that has reviewed/alerted/faved. I'm almost at 35,000 hits...is that insane or what?! Thank you SOOOOOO much!