Sun and Moon Rising
Chapter 9 (Sasuke POV)
Once we left Nioboka, the journey to the Southeast Hideout began at a sluggish pace. The weather was hot and humid for spring, and we brought too much with us from the town weighing down our backpacks. We stopped for frequent water breaks and to fuel Naruto's never satiated stomach. I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off, but Naruto insisted I was being paranoid. I stayed close to him and kept my eyes peeled on our surroundings at all time even activating my sharingan as we glided through another patch of forest. I noticed Naruto lagged behind me since we started to the point of drawing my concern. I halted for him to catch up, but in my peripheral vision, saw him stumble to his knees. I sprinted to him clutching his lax weight in my arms. His eyes closed and breathing faint.
"Naruto, what's wrong?" I shook him gently to wake him.
"I can't see… And I'm wobbling too much to walk." He put his hand on my chin before he slipped into oblivion.
"What do you mean?" I kissed his head. "Talk to me, please. Are you sick?" I palmed his forehead, but he lacked a fever. I scanned all the possibilities through my head if he wasn't sick. I used my sharingan to examine his chakra pathways, which seemed unobstructed. When I realized the most likely explanation, my whole body numbed. I channeled my chakra to the inside of his consciousness.
Kurama, I need your help.
What is it? This better be urgent Uchiha.
Naruto is unconscious and I think he's been poisoned.
That's pretty unlikely. I protect him from such an occurrence.
Then explain to me what is wrong with him? He won't wake up now. I don't know how to help him.
Get him to the hideout as fast as you can. Karin probably has a healing method or antidote if it is poison. I'll keep him alive.
Thank you.
I scooped him up in my arms and kissed his forehead. We were still about twenty miles from the hideout. The position of the sun placed the time around midafternoon, leaving me no choice but to sprint if I wanted to make it before his condition worsened to a critical point. I tried not to think about that outcome. Instead, I kept my eyes forward darting in all directions for obstacles in my path that would slow me down. He never stirred in my arms, which concerned me, but I heard his faint heartbeat.
"Hold on, Naruto. We are almost there," I whispered to him as I hustled. When I reached the waves lapping onto shore, I knew we were almost there. I reverted my eyes back to normal so I could channel my remaining chakra to my feet to make it across the ocean to the Island. The second my feet touched the sand, I started shouting names hoping someone would meet me. I pressed the correct passcode and the steel door opened. I was trying not to cry as I darted through the entrance screaming for help. Luckily, as I traveled deeper into the dark hallway, Jugo met me halfway.
"Sasuke, I heard you calling for help. What's going on?" His kind demeanor calmed me a little because I felt anything but.
"It's Naruto. I think he's been poisoned, and I need him to see Karin right way." Tears spilled from my eyes unable to hold my composure any longer. Jugo took Naruto from my arms. I didn't want to let him go, but I knew I was too emotional and exhausted to insist I keep him. Jugo made a left at the end of the hallway, and I followed him almost tripping him. He brought Naruto to a room that resembled a hospital operating room and placed him on a metal table.
"Stay with him. I'll get Karin." I nodded as he disappeared through the door. I cradled Naruto's head in my hands, brushing his whiskers with my thumb. I kissed both of his cheeks letting my tears fall on his beautiful face when the sliding door thrashed open.
"What is it Sasuke?" Karin's snarky voice jolted me upright after I placed Naruto horizontal on the table.
"I don't know. We were traveling here, and he stumbled to the ground out of nowhere, he said he couldn't see then he passed out. I thought he was sick, but I think he's been poisoned."
"He's the jinchuriki, right? The one I met during the war? He shouldn't be that easy to poison."
"I know, but I spoke with the fox, and he said it's a possibility. We must have eaten something that affected him but not me with my immunity from…" I couldn't think about those experiments...
"Well, I need some space to run some tests on him for all the common poisons." She threw me a get the hell out look, but I remained firm in my stance.
"I can't leave him," my voice broke.
"I will let you know as soon as I find out any results, Sasuke. Trust me." She put her hand on my shoulder and pushed up her glasses with her forefinger. Jugo grabbed my arm and more or less dragged me out of the room as I stole my last glance at Naruto. I had never been more fortunate for Jugo's reserved nature when he refrained from speaking to me. We waited in a room farther down the hall that resembled a common area meant for relaxation. I felt anything except relaxed. I squirmed in my seat thumbing the sidearm of the chair. Tired enough to fall asleep, I willed my eyes to stay open in case Karin walked in. I could feel Jugo's concerned glances towards me. I realized he had no idea who Naruto even was, but I didn't feel like telling him until he could see for himself. My tears still silently trailed down my face. I stood up for a while pacing back and forth.
"He's important to you, isn't he?" Jugo asked in his low deep voice after I leaned my side against the wall.
"Yes," I said simply wishing not to divulge any further. Jugo stood up and wrapped his cape on top of the one I was already wearing. I gave him a gracious nod. His giant footsteps traipsed down the hall in the direction of Naruto's room. I anxiously waited for him to return. It seemed like hours had already gone by. He finally appeared from the shadows.
"Karin is running some bloodwork after finding nothing else. Why I don't I take you to your room to rest. You can give me his things, and I can set them in his room."
"We stay together," I mumbled softly. He bowed his head and I reluctantly followed him. We weaved in and out of dim stone corridors until he turned a key to a room located at a juncture.
"Do you want me to get you anything?" He asked. I noticed a bluebird perched on his shoulder.
"No, thank you though," I said softly.
"I'll bring you something to drink. You must be dehydrated." I didn't disagree as he shut the door. The room was more spacious than the one in Nioboka but lacked windows since we were underground. I rested my head on the large bed with silver linens. No artwork lined the muted gray walls. I was too exhausted to inspect the bathroom. Someone knocked on the door before entering. I sat up, and Jugo handed me the glass of water.
"Thank you. Will you wake me when Karin finds out?" I gave him back the empty glass.
"Of course, Master Sasuke. It's good to see you even under these circumstances." I gave him a slight smile then dozed off until I heard Karin's voice through the door.
"He's stable," she called. I hurled myself out of bed and opened the door.
"Can I see him?" The expression on my face desperate while maintaining composure to not cry again.
"He's not conscious, but he's stable," she repeated. "I'm still monitoring his condition, but he's made a slight improvement."
"What happened?"
"Mercury poisoning," she said simply.
"Do you think it was intentional?" I demanded gritting my teeth.
"No, the levels seemed pretty consistent with fish containing too much mercury, so unless you have been around someone intentionally trying to poison him over time, I say it's doubtful," she concluded. I exhaled and threw my arms around her lean frame in the hug she probably always wanted from me. I expected her to turn as red as her hair, but she just looked surprised.
"Thank you, Karin. Please let me know as soon as he wakes up." I let go of her standing there awkwardly.
"I will. And thank you? Who is this Sasuke that I'm talking to? All you used to do is bark orders. I mean I guess this was no different. Save this random blonde kid with goofy whiskers." She did a poor impression of me then rolled her eyes.
"I know. We will talk about that, I promise. Where is Suigetsu?" With the crisis under control, I realized I had yet to see him.
"Who knows. He is a fish out of water. Probably out for a swim. We located to this island so he could always be around his precious ocean." She blushed. My curiosity piqued, but I banked my questions for later.
"Would you like me to make you something to eat Sasuke?" Jugo interrupted.
"That would be very kind of you. Karin, may I please just see Naruto for a minute."
"Ugh, fine." She strutted down to his room. "You have can have five minutes." I nodded grateful for anything. He was hooked up to monitors and IV's. His chakra network was displayed on a screen, which fascinated me the woven colors of blue and orange lining pathways in his body. But nothing captivated me more than his gorgeous face. I kissed his cheeks and stroked his whiskers half expecting him to wake up and laugh. Lastly, I kissed his forehead and left the room. Karin was waiting with her back facing the door. "I didn't expect you to bring someone with you. When you sent the hawk, you made it seem like you planned on coming alone," she stated suspiciously.
"It was a surprise. He caught up with me," I answered with a few words that provided as much detail as needed. She spoke no further as she led me to a regal dining room with chairs large enough for two people. The stone table underneath the metal chandelier created the ambiance of the formal space. Jugo had a stew waiting for me with steam lifting off the top. "Thank you for making me dinner."
"No problem, Master Sasuke."
"You don't have to call me that. I was never worthy of the title to begin with." I said staring into my bowl. He seated himself in the chair next to me. His giant stature suited its size perfectly. Karin lurked at us from the corner probably only there if we happened to say something interesting. Unfortunately for her, Jugo and I possessed no need to converse while eating. When she got bored of tapping her food and looking unimpressed, she left the room lightening the mood.
"Who is he, Sasuke?" Jugo asked me with his chestnut eyes not out of curiosity but kindness. Jugo had always been kind.
I slurped a bit of the broth before answering, "As of a yesterday, he's my boyfriend."
"I could tell he was something special to you. I look forward to meeting him." Jugo put his arm around me and pulled me in for a side hug.
After dinner, I soaked in the hot spring on the island high above the living quarters on a hill. The bubbling water eased my physical aches, but my mental ones persisted. I thought about how I couldn't wait to be in here with Naruto and make out with him until our skin melted once he made his recovery. For its main purpose being a place of conducting research, the island possessed a serenity too that I appreciated. It was short lived when Suigetsu canon balled into the water splashing me and the surrounding area.
"Hey Sasuke! When did your sorry ass show up?" He poked my chest.
"A few hours ago. Where have you been?" I turned the conversation around on him and planned to keep it there for as long as possible.
"I've been swimming, duh. Man, it's awesome to be around water again. So, you have seen everyone…" he slid closer to me, which was not appreciated. "Did Karin tell you?" he winked at me. I shook my head confused. "Of course, she didn't. I stole your girl, Sasuke."
"You can't steal something that wasn't mine, Suigetsu. I didn't want her." I shrugged actually amused by them getting together. I refused to show it though, or he would shut down if he knew I was enjoying it too much. She must have gotten over her aversion to his chakra. When they were a part of Team Taka, most of their contributions involved bickering.
"Well, you can't change your mind now because she's all mine. She loves me too," he announced with confidence.
"Really?" I tried to hide my smirk.
"Well, I mean she hasn't told me… But I know it. She's obsessed with me." I laughed as I stepped out of the steaming bath.
"If you say so," I called to him as I wrapped myself in a towel. I expected him to follow me but was relieved when he didn't.
I found my way back to the room Naruto was in. I waited outside the door for someone to catch me, but I ultimately didn't care if they did. I couldn't imagine sleeping somewhere else while he fought for his life. I entered the room careful not to draw attention to myself. I closed the door without making a sound. Nothing changed from my previous visit. I turned off the overhead light leaving just the brightness of the monitors. The bed was spacious enough for me to lay next to him, careful not to disturb any of his veins pierced with needles. I selfishly needed to hold him and feel the warmth of his skin. I fell asleep breathing on his neck and with my arm over his chest.
Karin woke me by coming into the room after an unknown amount of time passed. I pretended I was sleeping, only peaking on occasion when I knew she had her back to me. I was shocked that she did not force me out. Perhaps, she had a heart after all. Maybe Jugo told her who Naruto really was, although I though it unlikely since Jugo's not the gossiping type. I slept by his side all night.
The next week passed by in a blur of the same waiting game. His condition still stabilized by Karin's expert medical care but no major improvements. I decided to pen a letter to Kakashi of Naruto's circumstance using one of Jugo's birds as the delivery method. I felt disappointed in myself and responsible for Naruto's misfortune knowing that if he was not with me, he would be in the village unharmed. Next came more waiting on behalf of Kakashi's response. I grew restless of staring at the ocean waves, taking breaks in the hot spring, and sitting in the common area. I wandered every inch of the island without Naruto which seemed unfair. My friends remained mindful of my anguish over the situation by allowing me space and knowing when I needed company even if that meant occupying the same air in silence. Even Suigetsu pestered me a minimum amount. He mostly kept his distance from me except the occasions where I laid on the beach while he swam in the ocean. Karin permitted me to sleep in Naruto's room every night although she pointed out doing so was against all major medical protocols.
One afternoon, I sat in Naruto's room reading a book when she came in to give him his medication. She looked at me wearily, then explained to me the procedure of excreting the toxic heavy metal from his body by injecting him with chelating agents. She stated that his levels have dropped substantially but not safe enough to wake him up. I nodded returning to my book when she asked me if I wanted to see her research lab. I believed that she must have one being a student of Orochimaru, so I agreed. I followed her to the end of the hallway which took twenty minutes to walk to. Steel double doors with two sets of passcodes hindered our entrance into the eerie science lair. I gazed with morbid fascination at the jars preserved with various organs. Scientific glassware littered the lab benches as well as modern instrumentation I was not familiar with. She typed at a computer ignoring my meandering; she must trust me not to interfere with experiments or unfamiliar substances. I thought she brought me to explain her research or give me a tour, but by the looks of it, she just wanted company or to pull me out of Naruto's room. I wandered over to her and stared at the computer from behind her. She jumped out of her seat and pointed her finger at me, "Jesus Sasuke! You don't have to creep up behind me like that!"
"Sorry, I was not trying to. So… what kind of research do you do in here?" I asked cautiously hoping I didn't put her in a somber mood.
"I have been studying the genetics and lineage of the lost Uzumaki clan," she replied without turning around and continuing to type.
"That's interesting. Naruto is an Uzumaki. His mother was at least," I offered.
"That's kinda obvious don't you think Sasuke? He didn't get the red hair unfortunately but that is his surname." I couldn't see her, but I'm sure she rolled her eyes. I wondered what Naruto would look like with red hair, probably incredibly attractive, maybe I could convince him to dye it sometime.
"Would you ever need to study him for your research?" I regarded carefully.
"At some point, yes. But I am only in the early stages. What are you getting at? Spit it out Sasuke." Her hostility towards me minus the unabashed crush was new to me. I decided to ignore it.
"If I asked you to research something for me, would you?" I threw out hypothetically not willing to show my cards just yet.
"Depends. I have a lot of work to do Sasuke. I can't just do freelance work especially if I am not paid." She swiveled around in her chair to look at me through her thick glasses.
"I would pay you, but the project would be confidential." I shrugged hoping that might feign her interest.
"This isn't another revenge plot is it, Sasuke? Because I really don't have time for all of that drama again."
"No, no. Quite the opposite actually. If I tell you, will you promise to keep this between us?" I smiled at her kindly hoping to soften her demeanor.
"Alright, I'll bite because you have been quite weird since you got here. Your chakra is not as dark as it used to be, it even has a lightness about it." She crossed her arms and pursed her lips at me from her chair. Frankly, I was relieved that she was seated.
"I want you to figure out how two males can pass their DNA onto a biological child and have a baby," I said simply. I predicted her reaction perfectly. Her skin turned a ghostly shade of white, her jaw hung open, and her pupils dilatated.
"What… What did you say? Are you talking about yourself, Sasuke?" her body swayed nearly falling off the chair. She mused at me with a confused expression.
"Yes, myself and…" I stumbled realizing I had not told her yet about Naruto and me; I only informed Jugo of my relationship status. "And… Naruto." I gulped on air.
"You and Naruto? Like romantically?" she shuddered.
"Yes," I nodded.
"For how long?" She narrowed her eyes at me. I did not have to read minds to know she was recollecting the time I spent with Taka.
"It's new, the official part."
"And you want a baby with him already? Honestly, where is the real Sasuke?" She lunged at me and held a kunai to my throat.
"Relax," I gripped the weapon from her. "I know research progress takes time, so I wanted to pose the question to you if you are interested."
"Well… You have a point. But how sure are you that this is what you want? That he is what you want?" she eyed me suspiciously.
"Positive. But don't concern yourself with that. You are the only person I know whom I could trust with sort of thing…"
"You must really love him to be asking me to do this," she stared at me intently. I knew she needed an answer before she could agree.
"Yes. I do," I said bracing my hands on her shoulders and made eye contact with her.
"Okay fine. I'll do it," she sighed. "But it is not taking precedent over my own research," she huffed.
"I wouldn't expect it to. But thank you Karin. It means a lot to me that you would do this for me."
"Hypothetically, if I figured out how to do this for you…" She gazed down at the floor bouncing on her heels. "Naruto is a jinchuriki so he should not carry a child due to the sealing risk…"
"I am fine with carrying a child, Karin," I interrupted her painfully slow process of getting to the point. "But you should know that since the war, Naruto is a perfect jinchuriki who has complete control, an actual friendship rather, with the kyuubi. So, him carrying a child would not be a threat. But I'm sure he and I would make that decision together if it's an option." I smiled at her as I placed all my faith in her. "Karin, I know I did not treat you the best in the past. I just want you to know how much I appreciate all that you have done for me. I have not forgotten the sacrifices you have made." I pulled her in for a friendly hug.
"Thank you, Sasuke. I guess I am just shocked by how much of a different person you are now. It's because of him, isn't it?" She peered up at me with stars in her eyes. I think I won her over even with her initial skepticism.
"Yes, it is." She nodded and then proceeded to shoo me out of the lab so she could concentrate on her work.
I spent the rest of the evening biding my time. Kakashi wrote back to me that Naruto was in the best care possible and that he was glad we made progress on our relationship. I spared him intimate details, but I informed him that we became closer and solidified our bond. I decided that much information would be enough for him to decipher its true meaning considering his choice of leisurely reading material. I shared a pleasant meal for my friends. I still felt weird being a guest treated to the luxuries of not having to cook or clean especially when I thought I did not deserve their hospitality. When evening converted to night, I retreated to Naruto's hospital room. His beautiful eyes closed with his long lashes whisked up. Color appeared on his skin again back to its bronzed glow, an improvement Karin never mentioned and probably never noticed. I suspected he would wake up soon, or at least I hoped. I curled up next to him in his bed. His body temperature warmer than usual, but the monitor indicated no fever, so perhaps it was a good thing. I kissed his temple and dozed off until Karin came in to check on him.
"He's doing much better. I might bring him back to consciousness tomorrow if he stays this way overnight. Are you planning on staying with him tonight?" Her eyes flicked in my direction. My arm slung around his chest and chin resting on his shoulder.
"Yes, if that is okay."
"Sure, it could be what is helping him," she shrugged.
"Do you think he knows I'm here?"
"I think it's possible." She walked to exit the room and shut the light off. "Goodnight Sasuke."
The next morning, I opened my eyes impatient for Karin to enter the room after our hopeful conversation last night. I played with Naruto's soft blonde hair when she came in unexpectedly. She made a face at me then cleared her throat, "Are you ready for me to wake him up?"
"Right now?" I sat up examining the clothes I was wearing since yesterday. I could use a shower. But I guess that would not matter to Naruto who has not had a proper bath since he fell ill. I sponged him down some taking my time to clean him, but nothing compared to a dip in the hot springs or an actual shower.
"Of course." I fidgeted in the bed suddenly nervous about where I should be and what I should do. I had no idea how long the process would take.
"Relax, Sasuke. I'm going to wake him up slowly and wean him off the anesthesia. He should be lucid in about an hour if you want to change or something…" she winced, so she thought I smelled too. I nodded and flew out the door before she had time to say anything else.
I took a speedy shower. I paid little attention to my appearance in the month that has gone by. My hair was longer and flatter to my head than usual. I wondered what Naruto would think of it. I changed into my silver shirt and vest with my black pants. I hustled back to the room. I wanted the first person Naruto saw when he opened his eyes to be me. I hovered next to his bedside holding his hand watching for any twitch of his face or movement of his hand in mine. Karin remained in the room to observe him, which didn't bother me. He blinked a few times. I squeezed his hand as tears brimmed to the surface.
"Where… Where am… I…" he said groggily trying to sit up.
"Easy, lay back," Karin intervened positioning his head back to rest on the pillow. She flashed me a look waiting for me to speak but I was too dumbfounded to hear his voice again. "You are at the Southeast Hideout on our private island. I'm Karin. You had mercury poisoning, so you have been under my care." She explained in her doctor tone. I noticed him strain to talk again still coming off the anesthesia.
"I'm right here, Naruto." I kissed the back of his hand. He glinted his magnificent blue eyes at me.
"Sasuke." I would never forget the way he said my name. I pressed my lips to his in not exactly a kiss but just a mutual touch. He looked at me with wide eyes.
"I'll leave you two alone…" Comfortable that Naruto was caught up on current events, Karin exited closing the door behind her.
"How are you feeling?" I sat on the edge of the bed and petted the top of his head.
"Okay, I guess. Just confused. Who poisoned me? Are we in danger?"
"It was just some bad fish," I kissed his hair inhaling his scent. "You have been sedated for a month. When I brought you here, the situation was critical. We were not sure you would make it. Kurama couldn't even help you."
"You talked to Kurama?" I could not gage how he felt.
"Yeah. I entered your mind to do so. I'm sorry I was so desperate to figure out what was wrong."
"No, it's okay Sasuke. I'm not mad at all." He extended his arms out to me and I hugged him mindful of not exerting too much pressure on his fragile body.
"I'm so glad you are okay." I kissed his forehead allowing my lips to linger on his warm skin.
"Me too. How is the island? I can't wait to explore with you and meet your friends. They know about me, right?" His sapphire eyes shimmered in the light echoing the enthusiasm in his voice.
"It's nice but will be better with you," I smiled warmly, and he basked in the glow of my compliment. "Karin and Jugo know about our relationship."
"Really? Wow, Sasuke. I'm so surprised that you told them about us! I can't wait to meet them!" he threw his arms around my neck.
"Yes, but not Suigetsu yet…" my voice trailed off not wanting him to feel disappointed. I snuggled with him in the bed absorbing the heat percolating from his skin. A knock on the door startled neither of us when Karin came back in clicking her heels on the floor with her clipboard in hand.
"How are you doing Naruto?" she asked paying no attention to my presence.
"Great! I am more awake now. Can I leave?"
"Soon. I am going to administer some anti-nausea medication in case you feel sick from coming off the anesthesia." She adjusted his IV. "Just stay here for another thirty minutes."
"I've met you before I think! Karin, right?" He pulled away from my embrace to look at her.
"Yes," she answered matter of fact making little eye contact with him. I did not understand her coldness towards him when she treated him so well when he was unconscious. The door closed again leaving just the two of us.
"I'm sorry. I thought my talk with her went well…" I traced the inseams on his jacket.
"Don't worry about it. I'm sure she will come around. Your hair has gotten longer, Sasuke," he commented changing the subject.
"Do you like it?"
"Yes. It's hott." he strummed his fingers through it. I blushed.
"Where do you want to go first?" I asked him to divert the attention off of my appearance.
"On the island? Hmm, I don't know. What have you found?" He perked up becoming more coherent as time passed.
"There is a hot spring if you are interested…"
"Oh yes Sasuke! Can we go now?" He tugged on my sleeve like a little kid begging for treats.
"Sure. Do you need some help standing up?" He nodded. I supported his weight as he rose to his feet. His body weak but managing his stance. I offered to carry him, but he declined too prideful of course. Instead, we trudged slowly out of the compound and up to the peak of the island. I had towels for us tucked under my prosthetic arm as we proceeded to climb. I noticed his body wavering. Perhaps this was too excruciating of a hike for someone who was just released from the hospital. Without protesting, Naruto let me scoop him up in my arms for the remainder of the trip. The struggle was worth it when we reached the steaming water bubbling from the earth. We stripped all of our clothes and sank our bodies into the spring. It was the first time I had seen Naruto naked since he had been poisoned. He looked the same just slightly thinner with less muscle definition. He rested his head on my shoulder. The fog of the springs caused me not to notice at first, but Karin soaked across from us on the other side of the spring. I nudged Naruto to catch his attention as he snoozed on my shoulder.
"Sas…" he whined yawning. I pointed my finger in the direction of Karin. "Hey Karin!" he called waving his hands splashing the water with excitement. "Come over here!"
"No," she sniffed. I gave Naruto a concerned glance.
"Karin, are you crying?" I asked carefully unable to determine for sure due to the rising steam blocking a clear view of her face.
"It's none of your business, Sasuke. Don't worry about me," she snapped. I waded over to where she was with Naruto trailing behind me gripping my arm.
"Karin," I took a seat next to her with Naruto on my left holding my hand. "What's wrong? Have I upset you?" I turned her head to look at me. Tears spilling down her pink cheeks.
"It's not you, alright. It's nothing." She moved her head away from me, embarrassed I'm sure.
"Karin, you can tell us. We aren't judging you. We can help," Naruto offered. I squeezed his hand under the water.
"Everything is sooo perfect for you. Well, not me," she wailed loudly. I debated leaving the confines of the warm surroundings to bring her a tissue. I confided my thoughts wordlessly to Naruto who nodded in understanding. I stepped out of the comforting pool as Naruto took over as her shoulder to cry on. I was surprised when I squinted seeing her doing just that sobbing in his collarbone. I smiled knowing what a comfort Naruto could be. I skirted back shivering from the drastic change in climate with the box of tissues I promised. I splashed the water outwards as I climbed back in handing the box to Karin. She nodded silently taking them with her pruning fingers. She had been in there a while before we got there. Naruto shook his head at me indicating that he knew nothing about the reasoning for her distress. I stayed close to Naruto as she cried on him till only the sounds came out but no physical tears.
"Karin," Naruto spoke gently. "You took such good care of me. I owe it to you to be there for you and help you no matter what. You don't have to tell me what's wrong, but I'll stay with you as long as you need me to, okay?" I saw her watch his ocean eyes brim with sincerity. "I can ask Sasuke to leave…" he coaxed. I tightened my grip on his arm, but he brushed me off pleading with me not to say a word.
"No, it's okay. It's not him. I'm…" She heaved another round of intangible sobs. "I'm… pregnant," she mumbled into Naruto's chest. He gave me a perplexed look as if the word was one whose definition he didn't know.
"Karin, are you sure?" I asked cautiously.
"Yes, you dumbass. I took another test before I came here. I thought the one I took yesterday was a mistake… I just needed to think…." She trailed off trying to catch her breath.
"Does he know yet?" I had no desire to meddle in their affairs, but I wanted Karin to make the right decision by informing Suigetsu.
"No," she sobbed. "He won't care. He doesn't even love me. Not the way you two love each other." She cried again in her hands. Naruto and I exchanged blushed cheeks and quick glances not confirming or denying her accusation. Neither of us posed expertise on the matter of pregnancy, so we silently argued by pointing fingers of who would speak next. I lost.
"Karin, Suigetsu told me about you two…" I treaded lightly because truthfully I knew little.
"Oh, did he Sasuke? Did he tell you that we just fuck sometimes because we can't stand each other that it's the only time we get along? Especially if we are drunk? Is that what he told you?" she hissed. She posed to stand up when Naruto grabbed her and pulled her back into the water.
"No… That's not what he told me…" I sighed.
"Of course not. You don't know shit, Sasuke."
"Maybe he will be happy about the baby, Karin," Naruto whispered so soft that I barely heard him. If Karin intended to gripe at Naruto, she would have to answer to me. His intentions are always pure and to support.
"Yeah right. He doesn't even want a relationship with me, why would a child make everything better? He probably will assume I planned this." She weaved tears again letting them fall onto her pale skin. Naruto wrapped his arm around her for a side huge probably forgetting that we are all naked. I wasn't thrilled about his gesture, but it could have been more intimate, I suppose.
"Suigetsu isn't as rough as his exterior, Karin. He's not heartless," I said.
"We can be there for you when you tell him!" Naruto suggested clueless as ever. I punched him gently, but he failed to comprehend my body language.
"Naruto, that is a private matter between them, but I can talk to Suigetsu and gage his feelings about you, if that would help. He hasn't met Naruto yet and is unaware of the nature of our relationship…" The words spewed out of my mouth without going through my brain first.
"You would do that? Then tell me what he says?"
"Sure… I think it would put you at ease to know that I'm sure he doesn't feel the way you think he does…" I continued my terrible idea, oblivious to Naruto, who kissed me on the cheek. "We should get out and dry off then find Suigetsu." I put my hand on Naruto's thigh causing him to blush.
"Just relax, Karin and let us handle this okay?" Naruto hugged her side body. I stood up out of the bath and poked him. He understood and followed me lead planting a kiss on my lips. Karin watched both of us in a matter that she must have thought was discrete. Her eyes admired our naked bodies as we kissed for too long. I pushed Naruto away and whispered in his ear that we could continue that later. We wrapped ourselves in towels finally then changed inside.
"Where do you think Suigetsu is? And what if he really acts the way she thinks he will…" Naruto speculated out loud.
"I don't know… I hope he doesn't. And if he does, that is why I'm bringing you along since you seem to talk everyone into doing the right thing." I smirked pulling him in for a lust filled kiss. He moaned in my ear. "Don't worry, I'll take care of you tonight." I kissed his lips once more before appreciating the erection poking through his towel. He pouted in the way that he scrunched his face that I liked so much causing his whiskers to protrude farther from his face. The sight made my cock hard. I quickly put my clothes on and focused on the mission. I stared Naruto down until he followed suit. "It's almost dinner time, so he might be in his room back from the ocean by now. You'll be my back up okay? And I'll lead with your introduction," I clasped his hand in mine as we walked back down to the main house. I had no idea where Suigetsu's room was since the place was so vast, but I figured if we wandered the halls long enough, we would bump into him one way or another. After passing several passageways, I was fairly certain that we were lost when we walked by an ajar door with someone off-key humming. I poked my head in and saw Suigetsu lounging on his bed.
"Oh, it's you. Hey Sasuke," he sat up on his shins.
"Hey Suigetsu, got a minute?" I asked still keeping Naruto behind me holding his hand tight.
"Yeah, sure what's up? You seem weird," he frowned.
"No, but Naruto is awake now if you want to meet him." Naruto and I stepped into the bedroom identical to ours.
"Hey," Suigetsu said skeptical.
"Hey! Sasuke has told me so much about you!" Naruto let go of my hand and bounced on the bed.
"Really? There isn't much to tell," he shrugged. "You sure are a lot different than Sasuke." He laughed looking at me. "Seriously Sasuke. Where did you find this kid? He's day and your night."
"Yeah, that is actually accurate," I mumbled. "But Naruto is my boyfriend."
"Boyfriend?" he mused. "I see. Makes sense why you never gave in when Karin flirted with you nonstop if females aren't your type." He stood up and placed a hand on my shoulder. "I'm happy for you Sasuke. No wonder you've lightened up when you have this sunshine around. How long have you been dating?"
"Since right before we came here. Were you always interested in Karin?" I questioned. Naruto stood up and sauntered over to me finding my hand again interlacing our fingers.
"I guess. But she hated me so much and was so obsessed with you that I never put a ton of effort into wooing her," he sighed.
"But what about now? You said you are a thing, right?"
"Kinda. I mean we hook up sometimes, but she still hates me, I think. Or loves me. I can't tell honestly. Why are we talking about Karin, Sasuke? I want to hear about you two," he raised his eyebrows.
"Like what do you want to know?" Naruto opened his big mouth innocently before I could lash out.
"Have you two had sex?" Suigetsu grinned.
"What?" Naruto let out hoarsely.
"Don't answer that, Naruto," I gritted through my teeth. "Our sex life is not on the table for discussion." I squeezed Naruto's hand then balled prosthetic hand in a fist.
Suigetsu put his hands up in an attempt to disarm my rage. "Easy. I'm just saying, if you haven't, I have supplies you might need."
"Let's go get ready for dinner, Naruto. You should talk to Karin," I huffed then slammed the door.
I kept Naruto's hand locked with mine until we got to our room. When I let him go, he stumbled forward from the emphatic release. I ran my hands through my hair and paced around the room.
"That did not go as expected…" Naruto kicked his shoes off and collapsed on the bed staring at the ceiling. My mind too clouded with fury to speak. "I'm sorry," he breathed. "I didn't mean to initiate a discussion about our private life, Sasuke. I'm really sorry."
"What? It's not your fault." I stopped to make sure he wasn't crying. Not yet, but he looked like the sky before right before it rains, ready to burst open at any moment. I laid next to him on the bed. "I'm not mad at you Naruto. I'm frustrated with him and myself. We have never talked about sex and I don't want you to think anything has to change."
"To be honest, I don't know much other than what we do already… So, I wasn't too offended to talk about it. He probably wouldn't be my first choice, but I don't think he had malicious intentions, Sasuke. I understand what we do behind closed doors is personal. I was just open to hearing his advice, if that is what he was doing…" He laid on the side facing away from me, embarrassed by his admission.
"You think he wanted to help us? I heard mocking intention in his voice. You always believe the best in everyone, Naruto. We will figure everything out when we are ready. We don't need anyone telling us anything. Okay?" My inflection came out harsher than I intended. I watched him shake his head in agreeance. "Naruto, look at me," I commanded. He turned around obediently. "You are mine. No one else's. Got that?" he nodded meekly. "And don't be embarrassed about your lack of knowledge. I don't know anything either. We should have been able to talk about his before anyone prodded us about it."
"I agree, but I'm not mad at Suigetsu. I don't think you should be either. I think he was just curious. He said he wanted to help."
"Then, you can talk to him all you want and ask for all the advice." I jumped off the bed.
"Sasuke, don't be like that. I don't want to talk about sex with him. I want to talk about it with you," he admitted softly.
"Doesn't seem like it. Go ahead, go ask him." I crossed my arms refusing to make eye contact.
"You can be such an asshole, Sasuke. I guess I'll see you at dinner." He slammed the door leaving me in the bedroom alone frustrated over Karin, Suigetsu, and this petty argument.
After I calmed down to the point that I could stomach being in the same room as everyone, I joined the group in the dining hall. I reluctantly took a chair next to Naruto who did not acknowledge my presence. Jugo seated himself on the other side of me while Karin and Suigetsu were across from us. Jugo brought us all salads first which Naruto picked at, of course, as the unhealthiest eater I knew. I stole his tomatoes from his bowl sparking no reaction from him. The room was so quiet that I heard the crunch noises from everyone's chewing causing me to lose my appetite at an exponential rate. Poor Jugo surveyed all of our faces not understanding what was wrong with everyone. I expecting his brooding nature to remain silent, but instead, he asked, "What is going on? Why is no one talking?" We looked at him simultaneously then around to each other daring someone else to speak first.
"Sasuke is mad at me and Suigetsu," Naruto said slumping in his chair. I almost activated my sharingan at him but chose neutrality.
"Hey, I am really sorry guys. I wasn't trying to overstep or anything," Suigetsu apologized, his sincerity unclear to me.
"See, Sasuke. I told you he didn't mean anything by it. You always assume the worst in people," he growled at me.
"Oh really? You think that because he gave a half ass sorry after your announcement of my disdain that it was meaningful? You are so gullible, Naruto." I rolled my eyes. He grabbed a handful of my shirt. "Watch it," I cautioned.
"Honestly, guys I'm sorry. I was just joking around."
"That's all you ever do isn't it? When are you actually going to grow up and be serious for once?" Karin lashed out at him causing Naruto to let go of me. Our eyes drawn to them.
"Hey, where is this coming from, Karin? Are you mad at me too?" Suigetsu attempted to put his hand on her shoulder but she scooted away from him.
"Don't touch me you bastard. Stay away from me," she burst into tears. The room fell hushed even Suigetsu had no words.
"Karin…" I started.
"Don't start with me either Sasuke. You were supposed to be helping me. Clearly, you only cared about yourself. Seems like some things never change, huh?" she blew her nose in a tissue.
"I'm really confused. What is she talking about Sasuke?" Suigetsu directed his gaze to me. I avoided making eye contact.
"It is not my place to say," I said.
"Well, it seems like it was because you were supposed to what? Pry into my relationship with Karin? So… let me get this straight: you are pissed off at me for asking about your sex life with your boyfriend when you were what? Assigned to do the exact same thing to me? You are all fucking crazy." He threw his chair back.
"Wait. Don't go. I have something to tell you," Karin managed to choke out between sobs.
"Honestly, is it a full moon or something? Is there something in the water? Are the birds telling you things, Jugo? What is going on?" Suigetsu asked to no one in particular.
"I'm pregnant you idiot," Karin shouted.
"What?" He took two cautious steps back to the table. "What?" He stumbled to his chair almost missing it entirely. "Did you say what I think you said?" his tone barely audible.
"Yes. I am pregnant, so whatever sex advice you were trying to give them you CLEARLY don't know anything about safe sex because I am pregnant."
"When…"
"I found out yesterday, and I took another test today to confirm it. Sasuke and Naruto found me crying in the hot spring and pried it out of me. They were trying to help me because I was afraid to tell you." She stared at the table.
"Why?" he moved his face closer to hers.
"Why? Because I don't mean anything to you. We fool around because it's convenient not because you care about me," she scoffed. At this point, it felt like we were watching something unfold that none of us should be privy to. And yet, no one left the room. Everyone's eyes fixated on Suigetsu waiting for his response.
"That's not true…." He stammered. "I just always thought…. You still hated me," he whispered.
"Really?" she looked at him for the first time since they began the conversation.
"Yeah. I mean I was fine with the way things were, but I wouldn't mind something different too…."
"Oh," she blushed.
"I mean… I'm not ready for a kid, but it could be worse I guess," he chuckled relaxing in his chair. "Come on, Karin. Let's go talk somewhere else." He winked at her then whisked her away.
"I'm sorry." I whispered in Naruto's ear after they left. He kissed my check. We finished dinner with Jugo who enjoyed Naruto's company and nonstop rambling. We said goodnight and parted ways then retreated to our bedroom. Naruto's face looked sleepy. I forgot that he had been sedated for so long that this was his first day awake again. I probably pushed him too hard.
"That was crazy, huh?" I said to him as I washed my face in the bathroom. I assumed he was already in bed.
"Yeah, I hope things work out for them. I think they will. I haven't known Karin for very long, but I think she will be a good mom." Naruto appeared at the doorway in his boxers. He yawned waiting for me to finish prepping myself for bed.
"I agree." I kissed his forehead as I slipped by him. He smiled at me.
"I'm so glad I get to sleep in a real bed tonight," he chirped as he brushed his teeth.
"Me too," I called to him as I relaxed on top of the bed.
"What do you mean?"
"Oh… I slept with you every night. I was surprised Karin let me."
"Aww really? That is so sweet Sasuke," Naruto bounced on the bed tickling me.
"Shut up dobe. Aren't you tired?"
"Yeah, but I want to stay awake if you are," he pouted.
"Go to sleep. I'm right here." I said reading my book. He straddled me forcing my attention on him. He collapsed his head on my chest. "You are tired," I kissed the top of his head.
"Sas, when we have sex, where do you want to be?" He mumbled into my skin causing me to shiver from the abrupt change in temperature.
"What do you mean?" I asked confused at his implication.
"I don't know…" he was embarrassed to talk about it. I tilted his chin up to look at me.
"We have plenty of time to figure everything out."
"You are okay with waiting?" He sounded so insecure and unlike his normal self.
"Yes. Where is this coming from, Naruto?"
"I don't know. I just thought you wanted to."
"I do when we are ready. Nothing has changed okay?" I sat up and pulled him closer to me wrapping my arms around him. I pressed my lips against his inviting him in tasting the sweet saltiness of his saliva as he grappled with my tongue. The kiss a lot more intense than I planned, but I couldn't help from getting swept away in the moment of finally kissing him after a whole month. I failed to realize how much I needed this, needed him. The act paused by a knock on the door. He dismounted and went to the door for which I was thankful because just kissing him made me extremely turned on.
"Suigetsu, what are you doing here?" I could tell by his voice that he was surprised. I almost went to the door too until I looked down at the obvious tent in my boxers.
"I came to give you this. It's what I was talking about earlier and again, I'm really sorry."
"Thanks… Is everything okay with Karin?" Naruto asked in a careful tone.
"Yeah. She's great. She finally agreed to be my girlfriend," he beamed.
"I'm so happy for you!" Naruto clapped his hands. "Anyway, ugh thanks for this…"
"No problem." I heard the door shut, eager to see what he had in his hands. He traipsed back to the bed falling back onto my lap and held up the bottle in front of my face.
"I've heard Pervy Sage talk about this before." He shrugged.
"I'm sure because it's lube," I laughed. "I guess he really was trying to help. We don't need that right now though." I pecked him on the lips. "Come on sleepyhead. I'll go to bed with you."
"But Sas…" he wiggled on my lap.
"Don't do that. You'll make it worse," I cautioned.
"I can take care of you before we sleep," he half whined.
"No. Go to sleep. I'll be alright," I patted him off of me, so I could spoon him in my arms. His warm body pressed against mine perfectly.
"Goodnight, Sasuke. I love you," he said in a groggy tone, but the words undeniable. I kissed the back of his neck listening to his even breathing as he slept. I mulled over his confession until I fell asleep a couple hours later.
The next morning, I woke up in the exact same position I fell asleep in. Naruto wiggled in my arms either having a dream or opening his eyes. I waited for him to say something. When silence ensued, I knew he was having a dream. I clung to his soft skin and smelled the faint aroma of his hair.
"Morning," He yawned pressing his body tighter against mine either as a means of stretching or to snuggle closer to me.
"Hey dobe," I kissed his blonde hair.
"That was the best night sleep I've had in forever." He deliberately reached his arm to the ceiling before tucking it underneath the pillow.
"I'm sure it had nothing to do with being unconscious for a month," I snorted.
"Don't tease me teme. Thank you for keeping me warm." He grinded his hips on my groin causing my breath to hitch.
"Ha. You keep me warm. You are always hot. I don't even know why you want to be close to me."
"Why? How is that even a question?" He rolled over to face me. His blue eyes shining at me. "What do you want to do today?"
"We can go to the beach if you like," I suggested.
"Oooh that sounds so fun, Sas! I would love to go swimming with you!" he said with the brightness that I missed hearing.
"Hn. But we don't have to jump out of bed this second," I yawned.
"I thought you said you slept good," He frowned.
"I did. You know me usuratonkachi. I am not a morning person." I omitted that I needed extra time to fall asleep after he admitted that he loves me. I don't know why I was surprised by it. He always was more emotionally available than me. But still, I thought I felt the same way but did not say it back. But I couldn't know for sure since many years passed since I last felt love for someone else. He settled the debate of my aptitude for mornings by bringing me in for a delicious kiss. I rolled my body on top of him pinning his arms to the bed and absorbing his lips into mine. My tongue grazed across his lower lip as it entered his mouth. He moaned softly as we frenched for a while. When I let go of the restraint I had on his arms, he roamed his hands everywhere from my hair to my back and chest. I was so hard I could barely stand it, and I felt him too pushing up against me.
"Make love to me, Sasuke," He whispered in my ear.
"What?" I pulled away from his lips.
"Please," he begged.
"Naruto… we aren't ready for that," I choked.
"Please," he smiled softly his ocean eyes staring at me.
"It's not that simple… I don't want to hurt you." He reached across the nightstand grabbing the lube in his hand and shoving it in my face.
"That's what this is for right?" He tilted his head flashing me an irresistible smile.
"I know, but it still takes time…"
"You said we had time before we went to the beach with anyone teme. Do you not want me?" I could hear the disappointment in his words, but it only made me more uneasy.
"Absolutely I do. I just don't want to hurt you." I sat perched on top of him looking at his flushed cheeks.
"Go slow. Don't worry about hurting me," his grin and persistence unwavering.
"Naruto…"
"Do you want me to do it to you or something?" he asked.
"No! I want to fuck you." His eyes widened at my admission that I didn't even register came out the way it did. He dropped the bottle on the bed and pulled me flesh with his skin and kissed me aggressively nipping at my lip and kissing my neck. I lowered myself to free his cock from his boxers and wasted no time putting it in my mouth slurping every inch of him. He groaned loudly as I continued to let him fuck my mouth. "Give me the lube," I mumbled with a mouthful of his cock. He obeyed curiously, as I opened the bottle with my free hand coating my index finger with the liquid as I massaged his perineum. He gasped as I took more of the lube and moved my finger to his anal opening, which was unyielding. He squirmed a little almost causing me to bite down on his cock, but I controlled myself.
"Oh Sasuke," his words floated into the space. I pushed my finger farther in gently. He was so tight I had no idea how my cock would ever go into the same hole. Instead, I focused on making him feel new waves of pleasure. "Sasuke, I'm really close," he threw his head back after straining to watch me. In reality, I wanted to play with and explore his asshole more, but I knew it was too soon for sex if he couldn't hold on. I encouraged him to orgasm with my tongue flicking the head of his cock until he released the liquid in my mouth. I missed the taste of him and swallowed before he had a chance to comment. I curled up next to him with my own cock still painfully hard. "Let me do that to you." He stared at me.
"I don't know…" I stuttered.
"Please teme, it feels so good. Let me pleasure you," he pleaded. I was in no position to say no.
"Okay but no farther than I went with you," I warned. He nodded vigorously as he flipped me, so I was lying on my back. He placed sloppy kisses on my lips and neck moving down to my collarbone and shoulder. He inhaled sharply as he reached my boxers freeing my cock to grip it in his hand. He sucked the length of my shaft taking most of it impressively in his mouth to the point of gagging. Without a doubt, he was better at this act than me. I moaned his name into the pillow beside me causing him to bob his head faster. He reached for the lube without breaking his stride and placed a dollop of it on his finger which he brought to my anal opening. Even massaging around the opening felt sensational that when he inserted his finger abruptly, I yelped.
"Are you okay Sasuke?" he lifted his mouth off my dick to ask me concerned.
"Yes, Keep going," I groaned. He pumped his finger into my ass as he went back to massaging my cock with his mouth. I barely held on longer than him orgasming into his mouth. He also swallowed without a second thought then came up to lay on my chest.
"You were right usuratonkachi. That did feel great." I kissed his brow.
"See!" he traced absent minded circles on my torso. "Do you think we'll be able to have sex someday?"
"Yes, it is just going to take some preparation. Do you still want to?"
"Oh yes. I want to feel you inside me." His nose nuzzled into my armpit. I shivered unsure if it was from his gesture or his words. I kissed him on the lips as a response.
We stayed in place for a while dozing off until Jugo knocked on our door asking us if we wanted to join everyone for a picnic on the beach. We were still completely naked so I called to him saying we would meet them there.