A reader request. Jiraiya is forth Hokage, taking the title after Hiruzen retired when Orochimaru was discovered to be evil. Tsunade is dead(rip). Minato and Kushina live. Reader is a badass single mom bartender that's there for him during this hard time in his life.
Warning: alcohol abuse and addiction. Jiraiya be pretty depressed and copes with drinking basically.
A beat pounded in Jiraiya's head like someone rammed his head into a wall repeatedly. It's a rude awakening to say the least. Coming into consciousness simply because the agony of a hangover was too much for his body to handle was a bad time. The idea of opening his eyes felt like a task mightier than climbing a mountain. It flared his headache as if his eyes detect the small amount of light creeping into the room. He wakes up like this a lot but this is just awful. It's worse than it usually is.
The squeak of a door felt like someone had just decided to drill something into his skull. There was a small gasp.
"Mama, who that?" A small voice whispers.
"Hush. That's Jay-Jay. Come on, leave him be." You whispered back.
"Ohhhhh. I didn't know you were having a sleep over."
"I couldn't let him go home."
"Too much drinky?"
"Aye, too much drinky."
There's a soft giggle and the door squeaks shut again. The exchange did pull a grin out of him. There's only one kid in this world that calls him Jay-Jay. That sweet little girl of yours, Ume. She's probably the cutest little nine year old he's ever had the pleasure of knowing. With black fluffy hair and big huge black eyes that always sparkle with happiness. She treats him like a regular person and he loves it.
But that begs the question of what the fuck happened last night? Shifting around a little causes Jiraiya's senses to slowly awaken. His arms tingle a little from sleeping with them above his head. The sheets are tangled around his legs. He's still wearing underwear. It's all he's wearing.
Last he remembered was in your bar drowning his woes in liquor. You were there of course. Watching and listening to him with a sympathetic smile. It was hardly different from any other night, except he went harder to... well.. deal. But what did he say? He can't remember. He knows he's safe. More information began to process the more he woke up. He must be in your house, which was a loft located above your bar. Why else was your child here and he's most certainly not in his bed. This bed is cozier. It smells like you.
With a deep sigh, Jiraiya finally succumbs to reality. He's awake. He opens his eyes slowly. Thankfully the curtains were shut. The glare wasn't so bad. The dry mouth and full bladder however was a rude calling. Moving too quickly made him nauseous. He groans as he flips over onto his belly and slinks out of bed like a groggy lizard. He practically crawls to the bathroom, an odd detail of your house he does know how to get to. It took a lot of energy to stand before the throne and let loose. Like every other sound at the moment, it was loud and gross.
It signalled his awaking, as if his stumbling around like a half human creature hadn't done that already. Soon the smell of bacon fills the house. His mouth floods with saliva from both a ravenous hunger and a new wave of nausea. His stomach growls yet also clenched at the idea of food. To help relax, he splashes handfuls of water into his mouth after washing up from the first step of the morning ritual. It only worsens his craving for hydration and he sticks his head in the sink to drink almost mouth to tap to get some of the water his body sorely misses. After that, he finally makes his way around the home. It's small. It's got two small bedrooms and a single bathroom. Walking out of the thin hall that made up the bed and bath revealed the open kitchen and dining. In said areas was you and Ume.
"Morning, Jay-Jay!" Ume greeted him happily.
"Morning, kiddo." He returned the greeting, although it sounded less enthusiastic.
He took a seat at the table beside Ume. She's contently eating some scrambled eggs you had made. His gaze is fixed on you. Your back is to him as you cook. Being closer to the smell continues to confuse his body. Does he want food? He's so hungover he doesn't know. Before long there's a soft scrape as you set a plate down in front of him.
Apparently he had closed his eyes. He didn't even notice. He opens them and looks at you. He does offer a lopsided smile in appreciation. You return it with a slight roll of the eyes. He looks down. Hm... interesting. Bacon with instant ramen noodles all tossed and fried together in a pan. Looks greasy. It does appeal to his sickly stomach.
"Trust me. It's a good way to knock out the hangover." You tell him.
"I believe you."
You had nicely stuck the chop sticks into the side of the mound of noodles. He takes them and began to eat. It was strangely good. The fat from the meat mixed well with the usually flavourless noodles. You hand him a coffee a few moments later. You are like an angel with your amazing gifts of food and drink.
It's... nice being taken care of. You're a good friend. Although he's now seeing you differently. Which is odd. You aren't usually his type. Not that you aren't beautiful, it's just when he thought of the word gorgeous nothing like you came to mind. Mostly because he hasn't been exposed to something like you before. Tattoos. Dark aesthetics. Both suit your type of beauty. You also got a filthy mouth but it only drove home the brutal truths you tell. It's refreshing to be around. No one but you talks to him like that.
"How you feeling?" You ask.
"Awful."
A smirk grows on your face. You take a seat across from him with your own coffee and breakfast. You decided against the noodles and went for eggs instead.
"Jay-Jay?" Ume calls for his attention with an endearing inquiry.
"What's up?" Jiraiya asks, slowly turning his attention away from you to her.
"Are you one of mom's special friends?"
His brows raise. Did this kid just ask him if he's sleeping with you? It's hard not to at least snort. But then it dawns on him. He woke up almost completely naked in your bed with no memory of the night prior. Then again that's like eighty percent of his nights, but it's the first time in a while he's woken up in a woman's bed. He glances over to you.
"I dunno, are we?"
"Fuck no." Was your curt reply.
"Mama! Language!" Your daughter was quick to reprimand you.
"Sorry, honey." You more or less sigh as your daughter scolded you. You glance over at the clock on the wall and hum. "You should be getting to school. Finish your food and get going."
"Okay!" Ume agreed.
She shovels the rest of her meal down and jumped out of her seat. She bid everyone goodbye and ran out excitedly. Jiraiya had himself turned to wave her off. He quite likes that kid. She seems to be a fan of him too. He flashed her a funny face and she returned it before bolting off.
"How's she doing?" Jiraiya asks after a moment of silence. He turns back and leans on the table. "Does she like her studies?"
"I think so. She practices hard and is enthusiastic to learn from her father."
A twinge of something pulls at Jiraiya. The father. Not him... could be if he plays his cards right. It's odd to get involved. It's not his kid but he cares a lot for Ume. Honestly he'd never figured he'd go for a single mom yet here he is. There is a weird balance here. He's been getting closer to Ume because he's quickly discovered that through your baby's judgement he can win your favour. But he doesn't want to inject himself into this family like he was always apart of it. It's just a little hard to fully gauge where his boundaries are.
And then there's her father. An Uchiha, which makes Ume apart of that clan. She's inherited the talents of said clan as well, but she has your last name and hardly any involvement with the clan. Quite surprisingly, they've been very lax about this whole thing. They're usually pretty uptight about shit like this. They are a bit more lenient than the Hyuga, but do prefer things to be tidy. A 'bastard' child probably ruffled a few of the elders' feathers, but as the younger generation has taken lead they are slightly more modern in their views now. It's rather refreshing to see them all get along. They just seem pleased there's another member of the clan. It's mostly because your ex wouldn't allow much clan involvement and you would probably murder any clan member that attempted to take your child from you.
Aside from not being together, you still work well with your ex to co-parent. Apparently your ex is private person who doesn't really give much of a crap about the politics of clan relations. From what you've said, your relationship with him ended on good terms. You don't talk much about it. It's not really Jiraiya's business anyways. You're single now.
A gentle hand rests on his arm, bringing him out of his wandering thoughts. He looks down at it, then up to you. For having such a tough exterior, you could be rather sweet.
"You doing okay?" You ask.
"I've been better. Why?" He in turn asks a question. Last night was a real blur. Why do you look so worried?
"You seemed to not be okay last night."
"How so?"
"Well getting absolutely shit faced and crying the name of a woman is hardly a prelude for someone who is doing fine."
"A woman? I don't..." Jiraiya trails off as memories hit him.
Tsunade. He bows his head and lets his hair fall to hide his face. The grip he had on the coffee mug tightened as he felt like coiling up. If only it were so simple as to coil into a ball and turn off his head from thinking. Or drown in sorrow. Drowning in alcohol was a good medium for his sorrows.
Her death was almost poetic. A death that was romantic enough to be in a fable. Dying beside the man she loves. Holding him. Being with him until the end. It's been five years but it still hurts. Yesterday marked not the anniversary of her death, but the day he watched her get buried. For some reason, her death didn't sink in until then. Watching the casket go down is when all those surreal emotions became real. He wasn't anywhere near her when she fell in battle, yet he still feels responsible. As if he could have done something to change fate. To make it worse, it feels as if he got whip lash to the upteenth degree when only two years later as things got easier, Orochimaru was discovered to have been doing very illegal and upsetting things. Those experiments violated probably every human right one is supposed to be entitled to. He got away too. Hiruzen stopped talking to him four years ago. Jiraiya does feel as if he's got no one most nights.
It's lonely. It was like his family fell apart. Jiraiya only accepted the promotion of Hokage because he didn't want to leave what little family he still had. Minato was now an outstanding young man and his advisor. It's the emotional support he desperately needs, but even then how much can he dump on his poor student? Minato is starting his own family. He doesn't really need his somewhat mentally unstable teacher to baby as he prepares for the challenges of fatherhood. But Minato is all Jiraiya has left. It feels as if everyone else had gone.
"Fuck, I didn't mean to upset you." You say.
Jiraiya flinches when you touch him. He didn't expect it. Again your gentle almost motherly touch is comforting. Pushing back his hair to tuck behind his ear. In this moment he does feel small and childish. It felt good to have you coddle him. You rarely do. It does give him hope that you maybe would be interested in a relationship. You're the first woman since Tsunade he's found something in. Not just attraction, but feelings as well. You treat him... how he wants to be treated. That's the best way to put it.
"How much did I tell you last night?" He asks quietly.
"Not a lot. Just that you miss a woman who was very dear to you." You answer. You continue to pet him, even though he's most certainly greasy and sweaty. "Break ups can be fucking tough."
"Break up?..." For some reason that makes him laugh. Not that death is very funny. His terrible communication of his drunken woes must have been vague. A single chuckle that was strained and weak comes from his throat before he clears it up. "She's dead."
"Oh... I'm sorry."
That response irks him. Sorry for what? That he's dealing with pain? It's not like you knew of his past. He didn't talk about it. You don't ask about it. It falls silent for a while. Neither you or him move or speak. After some time, you do make a move. A gentle one. You squeeze his arm then stroke it in a tender gesture.
"You should shower. I highly fucking doubt your ninja want their leader to smell of stale booze and vomit."
"Vomit?"
"Yeah, you spewed for a while after I dragged your sorry drunk ass up here. Do you know how fucking heavy you are? It sounded like I was tossing rice bags around my hallway trying to navigate you to bed!"
Jiraiya cringes. So that's why he knew where the bathroom was. He can usually hold his drink but when he's upset he tends to overdo it. Now that he thinks about it, his elbow and wrist are a little sore. Perhaps they whacked into a wall or door on his way of you attempting to rag doll him to bed. He's not so cooperative when he's that wasted. A smile does grow on his lips as a memory comes to mind. Those vague blurry images, as of snapshots of life, of Tsunade hoisting him up by bracing practically his whole weight on her shoulder while her fist gripped the clothing of his back to make sure he doesn't fall over. His eyes somewhat focused on her harden expression as she had the mom friend override when she too was drunk but had to take care of him to make sure he don't end up in a dumpster or something. He found it funny that she'd cared so much as to save him from being stranded on the streets.
Thinking harder... he can sorta remember that with you. Your expression sour as you practically drag him along in the same hold down a dim night lit hall to a dark bedroom. A few colourful words spilling from your lips as you struggle with every step. That immediate relief of hitting a pillow with his heavy head and... holding you hostage. His arm feeling like a brick building as he trapped you under it and held you like you were his childhood stuffed animal. You're strong. But not strong enough to escape him when he's determined to squeeze you.
"Okay... You don't mind?" He asks.
"Hell no! Get in there, stinky!"
Jiraiya scowls at you before standing. He shuffles over to the bathroom. He flicks on the water and doesn't even wait for it to get hot before jumping in. It's so refreshing. Having the water wash off the old sweat was wonderful. For some time he just stands in the water. The door opens after a moment. You don't say anything as you sneak in, drop something and leave swiftly. He doesn't think much about it. Perhaps you dropped him a towel or something. He uses a bit of your shampoo and body wash. He didn't mind smelling like flowers and coconut. Beats smelling like stale alcohol and puke. Plus the little whiffs of the stuff he can get from smelling his hair will remind him of you. Finally that scuzzy feeling went away as the lather and scent washed away last night's awful binge.
He turns the water off and gets out. He steps out of the tub and looking around reveals you have dropped his clothing off on the vanity. They are all folded and clean. How nice of you to wash off the possible puke and alcohol off of his stuff. If only he had a change of undies. It seems he's gotta do the shameful task of flipping them inside out and wearing them again... or maybe steal a pair of yours. You'd probably string him up by his toes, but it would be hot. Are they black and intricate like your tattoos? Are they feminine and frilly like a cute hidden side of you? He hopes to find out. He changes into his clothes, regrettably in his own undies under it all, then leaves the bathroom.
You are tidying up from breakfast, washing dishes and setting them on a rack beside the sink. You do give him a smile as he wanders back into the kitchen.
"Thanks... for everything." Jiraiya said.
"You're welcome. Honestly, you need all the fucking help you can get."
"Don't I know it." He agrees with a small laugh. He glances at the clock then sighs. "I should get going."
"Okay." You say as you dry your hands and gesture towards the door.
You walk with him to the door. Both you and him stop to say goodbye.
"I'll see you soon." Jiraiya tells you with a smile.
"Tonight?"
"Heh. Only if you got another bottle for me."
You smile, but it feels a little forced. He tilts his head in inquiry. Are you worried? There's nothing to be worried about. He won't throw up again. Or be a hot mess in front of Ume again.
He laughs a little. It's still hard to laugh, but he didn't like seeing you furrow your brow in worry when you look at him. You do smile at him, but it's not all that genuine. It's still better than a frown. You open the door for him. But he doesn't leave. For a moment he stalls. He doesn't know what came over him. Maybe it was just finally feeling something for someone after so long of not. Or how you took care of him. There's some kind of... belonging when he's with you. As if he has a place when you are with him. Which he hadn't felt since his team disbanded. Your eyes widen when he leans down. You don't flinch or pull back. You merely gasp before his lips touch yours.
It was a quick kiss. Or that's what he wanted. That's how he imagined it. Like he was your husband and it was a quick kiss goodbye before he went to work like how every morning starts. Then you melt into it so quickly. You grip him by his biceps, pulling him closer. He grabs your hips. Within seconds tongues and teeth gets involved. He pushes you against the door and it rattles from the force of hitting the wall.
This is the most action he's gotten in a while. He's still a man after all. One that's as hot blooded. Yet his romantic endeavours have been lackluster these past years. Ever since he's walked into your bar five years ago he's been shooting for this moment with you. This passionate kiss was sending his body through a tirade of tingles. He's finally doing this! It felt like progress.
Like all good things it comes to an end. You broke the kiss. Your voice is soft. It says his name with a tone that made it clear you wanted to say more. It was a tone that instantly scared him. He didn't want to hear whatever you had to say. Especially if it's to tell him you didn't want to pursue a relationship further than a friendship.
"Sorry..." Jiraiya mumbles. He backs away from you. "I just... I thought you felt the same."
"Jiraiya, I-!"
"I'll see you later."
You call after him as he leaves. He can't deal with this right now. He could barely handle it sober and healthy. There's no way he can do it when he's hungover. He can't think of what to say to you to make this better. Although leaving after kissing you so deeply probably wasn't making you think any more highly of him. He makes a frustrated cry towards the sky before moving on. It's a problem for later. Perhaps after hitting his forehead on his desk for an hour or so he'll think of a good approach when he gets off of work.
He scuttles away to his office. Of course he got scolded by a passing elder for being so late. He rolls his eyes as he continues the journey. The task is harder since he's all hungover. His body still feels heavy and gross despite the care you gave him. The run over to the building has made him nauseated.
Minato is already there. He's sat on a chair beside the desk, looking over some paper. He offers a smile and a hearty good morning. Jiraiya returned it with less enthusiasm. It's more of a polite uncomfortable smile one does when they're gassy but too stuck in a conversation to leave.
"Oh. Rough night?" Minato asks.
"I've had better." Jiraiya sighs as he plunks down in his chair.
"Did something happen?"
"Unk!" He snorts. "I don't know. I could have just ruined a friendship."
"Did you kiss that bartender you like?"
Jiraiya narrows his eyes at his student. Is this kid psychic or something? Minato pointed to his lips. After a blink, Jiraiya reaches up and wipes his mouth with his fingers. Pulling them back to look reveals he's got some lipstick on. He's not one for cosmetics but you wear this gorgeous deep red colour on your lips everyday. It reminds him of roses. Or cherry juice. He's described it to Minato a hundred times. He feels his cheeks warm as he quickly wipes his mouth free of the pigment.
"Good for you, sensei. It's about time you found someone!" Minato laughs jovially at his expense.
"Oh hush up, kid! I don't know what I even did!"
"What do you mean? I thought she liked you back."
"So did I. But... I.. I don't know. It's my problem. I'll figure it out."
"Okay. But if you want to talk about it, I'm always here."
"Yeah I know."
"..."
He glances over to see Minato kinda just looking at him.
"What?" He asks.
"Did you want to talk now?"
"About what?"
Minato pauses for a moment. He blinks. Jiraiya blinks. The younger man simply sighs after that awkward pause.
"Nothing, sensei." Minato mumbles. He offered a small smile. "I'm always here for you if you wanna talk is all. Okay?"
He grunts in acknowledgement before pulling forward the stack of paperwork he ignored last night. The sentiment is nice. He does appreciate it... he's just not so good at vocalizing it. He grabs the first one and begins the slow process of approving mission reports. Minato usually peers over his shoulder to make sure he doesn't make mistakes. If he does, a thin polite finger stops his progress to mark the mistake. In all honesty it's just an excuse to have Minato stay around longer. Jiraiya didn't like sitting in this big office by himself. Time seems to tick on much slower when by his lonesome.
"By the way, sensei. You have an appointment to speak to the students of the academy in the afternoon." Minato says.
"What? Didn't I talk to them like a week ago?"
"That was the graduating class. This is the fifth and sixth year classes you have to inspire."
He groans. He's not so good with groups of kids.
"You should just do it, Minato. You are much better at speaking to the youths than I am."
"You aren't so bad. I've done up a mock speech for you to say, but you can edit it however you wish." Minato said as he slid over a neatly folded piece of paper. "Do you wanna know something?"
"What?" Jiraiya sighs as he reluctantly takes the speech to look it over. He still fancies himself as an author, but hasn't found much motivation to be creative as of late. What little he has tried to write turns out grim or really shitty. He's just tapped out on good ideas. Minato is a good writer too. He knows how to be inspiring, which is something Jiraiya ain't so good at. Apparently telling the kids it only gets worse from here on out in life isn't good for morale.
"It's a good opportunity to show a certain little girl that you are super cool."
Minato can be too clever for his own good sometimes. It's not a bad idea. Ume is in that range of classes. If Jiraiya can impress her then your opinion of him will change for the better. Ume's opinion does mean everything to you. But he did just kiss you and run. Is there still a relationship for him to have after making an ass of himself? Hopefully so. He agrees to go. Maybe be more interactive than his predecessors were. Jiraiya never figured himself as a leader that was intimidating or worthy of everyone's respect anyways. It's easier to be liked as a person than revered for being a powerful leader. He does edit the speech a little bit to reflect that sentiment. From the corner of his vision he can see a grin on Minato's face, but the young man doesn't say anything.
Like any presentation, Jiraiya practices a few times. He didn't want to fuddle it up even if it is just for children. Children tend to be harshest of critics anyways. It's best not to make too much of a fool of himself. He goes alone, letting Minato keep up with the work while he's away.
Waves of gasps resounded around the academy training field. All the children had stars in their eyes at seeing Jiraiya's approach. It feels a little odd to be considered so popular. It seems children are the only ones that think he's cool anymore. He's not so popular among the adults he has to lead. Not that he really cares what they think... not anymore anyways. It only stressed him out to live up to their expectations.
From the crowd of little faces, he spots Ume quickly. She waves at him and he returned it. A couple of her classmates look at her like she's either crazy or insanely cool.
Jiraiya spoke his speech well, telling the children the real weight they hold in the village. They are the future after all. It's important to build them up high so they can succeed. He smiles as an idea comes to mind. He can waste some time showing these kids a thing or two, can't he? Minato can cover his ass on the paperwork for a few more hours. His role was to watch the children train to observe their skills, but that'll do fuck all. It's better to get in there.
The teachers gawked a little, but appreciated his hands on approach. It took some time to train each child. It had to be swift to give each one a chance. It was nice to get some action. An unfortunate perk of being Hokage meant sitting on one's ass all day rather than doing the exciting things. It's a great change of pace. For the first time in years, Jiraiya was enjoying himself. He no longer thought about office politics or the stress of running this place for some time. Not even his lingering hangover hindered him.
Intentionally, he paired with Ume last. It was late in the day now. It was strictly voluntary if the kids wanted to stick around to learn a few pointers from Jiraiya. Most did. A few apathetic souls decided home was better than extra training. Not that he minded. He gets it. If he were a kid he too would have bounced the moment the teacher said this was a voluntary training session. Even the teachers had left at this point. Jiraiya assures them he can watch over her while waiting for her father to pick her up.
Like all Uchiha, Ume is exceptionally talented. Even without that visual advantage, she picked up on his tips quickly. She adjusted herself, even if her technique was pretty damn perfect. Even so she still asked him if she was doing good.
"Like that, Jay-Jay?" Ume inquires again. At the moment she was doing a motion of a high kick.
"Not bad, kiddo. Actually it's pretty good." Jiraiya praises her but does notice a flaw. It's his job to help her. It does no good to dote just to simply win your favour again. He squats down and pokes her foot. "Just fix your foot. Turn it out more and you'll be more stable."
"Okay!"
She hobbles on her foot as she hops to adjust her position. He chuckles as she does her best to impersonate a drunk frog. She lost balance. Jiraiya put his hand out and caught her on her mid back. He pushed her back up slowly to avoid a face plant.
"Thanks, Jay-Jay." She says as she finally stands normally. "You know, I really like you."
"Thanks, kid. I like you too." Jiraiya replies calmly, but his heartbeat quickened with excitement at hearing that.
"If you do ever become mama's special friend I think that would be cool."
"Cool how?"
"I dunno. I just think it would be nice to have you around more. You make mama happy."
A smile grows on his face. A part of him wants to squeal like a flustered teenaged girl. He kinda feels like one. He could go home, collapse into bed holding a pillow to squee into and turn hot with his cheeks from hearing a girl likes him. It's just... been a while since he's felt like this. The attraction and warmth of wanting someone was almost overwhelming. He's feeling something again. Something new that's a welcomed change. The weight of kissing you and bolting didn't feel so tragic now. Maybe he does have a chance with you. Even though he's freaking out he stays calm on the surface.
"Your mama makes me happy too. She's pretty cool."
"Pretty fucking cool!"
"U-Ume! You shouldn't say words like that!"
"I know, but I it makes me more cool like mama!"
He sighs in exasperation. Ume grins and stuck her tongue out at him. The damn kid is gonna give him a heart attack! Your sailor mouth does influence your daughter even if she does disapprove of it. She giggles at him and his scowl.
"But can I tell you something honest?" She asks.
"What's that?"
She leans. Her hands cupped around her mouth and she whispers. He leans in too and cups his ear while facing it towards her to keep her secret between them.
"Papa is cooler than you."
He snorts. Ume is a funny kid. All kids are brutally honest but Ume can be a savage sometimes. But he gets it. Her papa is pretty cool. He probably can't compare. It is great that she at least thinks he's good for her mama.
"Ume!" A different voice calls.
Jiraiya turns his head in response to see your ex, your friend, the father of your child. Ezume is his name. Tall and intimidating as almost all grown Uchiha are. He stands there like a road block, still and stoic. It's hard to see Ume in there aside from the dark eyes and hair. She's just too sweet. That stoic expression does melt when Ume ran swiftly towards him. He bends over to catch her and lift her up into a hug.
Jiraiya rises to standing as they approach. Ezume is... hard to read. More of a loner type. Keeps to himself. Yet he's is very loyal to his clan and their future. Anyone with family is, but clan kinship can be a different beast all together. It's intimidating in a way. Piss off one and one has a hundred to worry about. Uchiha are especially scary. Running both the police force and having hands in raising anbus...
Where did that come from? Jiraiya sighs as he takes a moment to pinch the bridge of his nose. He's been in that accursed office too long. With nosy meddling elders whispering into his ear to be paranoid. So long as he proves that Konoha still loves and accepts one of the founder clans, there's no need to worry about a fucking revolution. It's all stupid speculation with no absolute proof. Hearing about it for eight hours a day has made him unnecessarily thinking of a plan of action that does not need to be taken.
"Headache, my lord?" Ezume asks.
"Yes. I'm sorry." Jiraiya replied. He composes himself and faces the man before him a polite smile. "Is there something you wanted?"
"Not really. I just think it rude to simply take my child and leave without speaking to you."
"There's no need to speak around what you want to really say to me, Ezume."
Surprise takes the man's face. Jiraiya ain't stupid. Ezume has an expression in his eyes that spoke of some kind of offence. He's mad about something and it's directed at Jiraiya. Jiraiya can handle some heat. Whether it's criticism of his leadership or behaviour, he can take it.
"I was wondering if some rumours were true." Ezume starts off the conversation again.
"What kind of rumours?"
"That our clan is under investigation... That you mistrust us... my lord."
Jiraiya frowns. He hadn't ordered anything like that. Did the elders really go over his head? Did he sign off on it by mistake? Or did they simply lay the paper out before him and he just approved of it? He does that a lot. He didn't really care what he signed off on... but facing the consequences of being so lax is now starting to pile up on him. Fuck.
"I can assure you that I have ordered no investigation onto your clan. I'm sorry if I or any of our comrades have made your clan feel unwelcome or suspicious." He formally apologized. Then he scowls as a thought crossed his mind. Danzo has been especially prodding about this supposed revolution. Then again the bits of evidence he's been presented with has made him... wary. But he's not going to order the isolation or banishment of a clan for a few bits of evidence that could simply be explained away. Yet he should make himself known not as a push over. He didn't want to be one anymore. "Although if I do become aware of any reason to be mistrustful of the Uchiha and their intentions with the village, I will take action."
"Understood."
Ezume wasn't happy. That was clear with that scowl. He's grinding his teeth as he wishes to speak more but is holding his tongue. He hadn't moved a muscle. Ume kept looking between the two of them with a worried frown. She didn't like seeing them talk like this. She doesn't quite understand what's happening but she doesn't like them so tense. To cut the tension a little, Jiraiya made eye contact with her and smiled. She does offer one back.
Her father sets her down on the ground again with a soft spoken order to go wait at the swing. She ran off to the old tree that supports the swing. Both men watched her go with a fond smile.
"Was there something else you wished to speak about?" Jiraiya asks. Like he had to. There was most certainly a reason to send Ume away.
"Yes."
There's a pause. Jiraiya sighs loudly. He prompts Ezume to continue with a gesture of his hand. The other man states your name seriously. It froze Jiraiya's heart for a beat. His face gets warm, not enough to blush thankfully.
"What exactly are your intentions?"
"What's it to you? I thought you two were just friends."
"We are friends. We're close and whatever man wants to be apart of her life is my business."
"How so?"
"It involves Ume and to be quite frank, my lord, I don't think you are suited to be a good parental figure."
Jiraiya mulls on that for a moment. That's probably true. To be honest he's not too keen on parenting. It's scary. But he's successfully had a hand in raising Minato. He's done well with the kids today. Yes that's vastly different from raising a child twenty four seven, but with the little snippets he's helped in he knows he can at least be both nurturing and fun. He can be someone to talk to but not afraid to lay out the punishments for wrong behaviour. He did so with his teams. If given permission to help parent Ume, he'd do the same for her. He could be worse. It's not like he had good role models to follow.
"What exactly makes me so bad?" He settles on asking.
"I hate to be rude, but I hear you visit her bar not just for her."
His first response was to scoff, but he hesitates. He does drink everyday. It... has been a bit a problem. It's his coping method. He didn't like being sober since it cleared up his head and reminded him of how miserable he is. Then again he's miserable when he's drunk too. He's not as bad as he was when Tsunade died. He was black out almost every night for that year. He doesn't remember most of it. It ruined his relationship with Hiruzen, who still refuses to speak to him to this day. But he figured not being totally black out would fix it... It hadn't but the old man can be a prude sometimes!.. Right?
Maybe not. All those worried looks people give him are suddenly weighing heavy on his shoulders. You and that offer to comfort him. Minato's constant insistence that he's always there for a chat. Hiruzen refusing to speak to him the moment he orders a drink. Good god... Is it really that bad?
Has he really fallen so low? Jiraiya stares into space as reality falls in around him. He hasn't really been sober since he took this job. He's let others do his job or he lets them lead him on to get it done a certain way. He'd rather pop a cork on a bottle than do anything that made him slightly uncomfortable. He hasn't really been leading... He's making a mockery of it. Just what has he turned into? It hardly feels like him.
He's no good for anyone. Most certainly not you. He's being a no good deadbeat drunk boss of a whole village. Oh god. Maybe it is a problem. It's hard to remember a day he hadn't taken at least a shot.
Despite his whole world crashing in around him, Jiraiya gets an idea. What if he fixes it? He's been at rock bottom for like five years... he just didn't know it. He didn't like this feeling. All these truths are cold and harsh, but it's opening his eyes to what a terrible person he's turned into. He doesn't like being this person. He's not this person.
"What if I get better? Would I be good enough?" He asks in a quiet voice. A part of him is scared of the answer. Perhaps it's the part of him that's scared to get better.
"I don't see that happening anytime soon." Ezume answers coldly. He looks over to the swing and calls Ume back over. "Sorry, my lord. If I could say more to you, I would. But I think we've both said enough for now."
They both leave hand in hand. Ume does turn around to give him last wave. He returns it with a small smile.
A bitter pill stuck in Jiraiya's throat. It was clear what Ezume thought. Probably not just Ezume. Most of the village is probably embarrassed of the leader they have. He can prove them wrong. For you. For Ume. For Minato. For his village. He can't stay like this anymore. It feels bad. Gross. He's letting everyone down. Worst of all he's letting himself down.
The first appropriate step became clear right away. Jiraiya turns and marches right to your bar. It's too early for it to be open, but he opens the door anyways. You are behind the bar polishing some glassware. Your head snaps up with an annoyed look already on your face. It melted into surprise when you realized it was him.
"Jiraiya uh-!" You babble for your words.
"Shut up for a second." He stated as he marched towards you.
"What the fuck! You fucker! You kiss me and fucking high tail it leaving me high and dry and you got the balls to tell me to-!"
He cut you off again. He was leaning over the bar to the point of almost teetering over to the other side. He had to in order to kiss you. You weren't so melty this time. He pulled back and grinned.
"Sorry. I just... Take it as a promise." Jiraiya said. You stare at him, flushed and confused. "I got a rude awaking and I've realized a few things. I need to get better. I want to get better for you. I will and I'm gonna date you... If you want."
It is quiet for a moment. Your eyes are locked with his. They reflect a great amount of attention and consideration of what he just said. Then you smile. You shake your head as if he were silly. You set down the glass and cloth in your hands. Then you raise them to cradle his head. It was gentle behind his ears and into his hair. You lean in and kiss him. It fills him with joy.
"I'm happy you want to improve yourself. To be really fucking honest I was getting worried about you." You say. You push back his hair from his face in a tender gesture that feels so good he wants a lifetime of it. "But it's not something you can do alone. It's gonna be tough as fuck. I'll help you, okay?"
"Only if you agree to being my girlfriend at the end."
You chuckle and agree to his terms. One more kiss and he leaves you stunned but smiling. He ran back to his office and announced his plan to Minato. The reaction was also a call to reality. He got squished into a hug and a quiet worded sentence of how happy Minato was for him. Has he really been so blind to what a wreak he's been? These kinds of things are hidden to the person who is hurting those around them. It's only more motivation to fix the hurt he's caused. He sighs and shakes off the guilt. It'll do no good to be negative anymore. He's spent too long doing that.
"Go home early... you deserve it." Jiraiya said with a smile.
"Are you sure? I don't mind helping." Minato politely offers.
"No, it's my job. I can handle it."
He gets a smile and a thank you.
That conversation happens a lot more now. Lots of conversations happen now. He's taken up the offer of conversion with his trusted advisor many times. But he never makes it too heavy. It would only bring down the mood. Honestly it's more fun to talk about babies than the struggles of losing a loved one. It's therapeutic in its own way. New life is more enjoyable to celebrate than lost life. Minato is expecting a child any day now. It's better if he's home to be with Kushina as they prepare for their little one. Jiraiya can handle his work by himself.
It's not so bad now. Being focused on it did make the time go by quickly. He took the reins back from the elders. He stopped doing what they wanted him to simply because he didn't want to put any thought into any action. They weren't too happy that he had begun to listen to them through a filter the size of a pin hole. He rejected almost all their notions now since he actually thought about what the ramifications of their ideas would cause. He never wanted to be their puppet again.
He leaves the office a lot to get away from them for a while. One day the mood struck him right to visit a clan. It's about time to start making steps forward to fix the problems he's made out of laziness and fear of action. It was awkward. The Uchiha thought he showed up there to lay out beef with Ezume. Or tell them to back off for simply living their damn lives. He did tell them to back off on their valid complaints to his staff, but in turn he simply asked them to speak to him directly about any problem they had and he'd solve it with them. It went surprisingly well. The clan seemed hesitant, yet pleasantly surprised that he offered a direct line to them. It's something that should have been done years ago. It felt like he began the process of healing. There was a sense of dread that cleared the moment he made his intentions known. It was progress. It felt like he had stopped something bad and instead created something good. It fills him with a sense of warmth do all of these things. Like getting a compliment out of nowhere or drinking tea that's just the right temperature... He quite likes tea now.
Even if it did feel good to take charge again, some days were tough. Some days Jiraiya didn't want to get out of bed. His body felt heavy and sickly. With goosebumps and cold sweats. His head often felt like his brain was a metal mushy ball that smacked against the side of his skull like wet paper towel thrown against the wall. His stomach hurt and felt like bile was swirling around in his belly like a violent whirlpool. Laying in his bed by his sickly lonesome wasn't how he wanted to spend his time. It's a just apart of the process of quitting cold turkey. He body was detoxing and it made him feel like a pile of hot garbage. It's a hangover to make all other hangovers feel like a light tap on the head. So he gathered himself from the pieces he was in to slink over to your place for company. It helped. You cussed and talked to him as you always had. Ume was pretty happy to see him around more. Whenever she had to trot off to school or to spend a weekend with her father, she always bid Jiraiya farewell in such a positive way that made him smile. It made this easier. It was a reminder that he's doing this to himself for a good reason. It came with an added benefit to hang out with you alone from time to time.
"Have you ever considered doing something else instead?" You asked him out of the blue one day.
"What? Like in life? Cuz I'm kinda stuck here." Jiraiya sarcastically replied.
"No, you dummy! Take up a different fucking hobby! Something to distract you that isn't your shitty desk job."
"I used to write. You mean something like that?"
"That's a good outlet. But will it keep your mind off of shit? How about something more active?"
Now that's an idea. Jiraiya contemplated that one for a while. It kinda made him realize he was getting out of shape. He's by no means over weight, but he's perhaps had to loosen up his pants. Who knew drinking most of one's calories and more would cause a little bit of pudge. Being stuck on his ass all day doing reports didn't help his cause either. So you offered a solution. Go running in the morning. He chuckled and asked you if it was because he's out of shape. You didn't mean it like that and it flustered you as you denied it. You swore at him and hit his arm a few times as he laughs at you. It was a suggestion as it's something to get him away from the office. Something that perhaps writing couldn't provide as he takes his breaks at his desk. Although the mental break was good from the mundane task of signing his name over a hundred times every two hours. You used to run everyday after you had Ume. Which is both badass and cute when you explained you did it with a baby in a stroller. You do it when you can now, except on days your shipments come in or when the general chaos of being a mother got in the way. It sounded nice. A few hours of alone time with you sounds like the best medicine he could ever get his hands on.
It added a new layer to his suddenly busy life. He woke up two hours earlier. He wore old clothes he used to train in and did laps around the village while most of his people were still sleeping. It's actually rather beautiful. It's peaceful. Quiet and cool out as the sun hasn't warmed the earth yet. It's even better with you to enjoy it with.
It's all he really can do for now. Minato is caring for a baby. There's no one else he can really bother to train with. It's not so bad when he does it alone. It came with the surprising benefit of the public turning over to him. The other few early risers took notice of him. Some of his ninja ran with him. They've taken notice to him being more of a leader. Yet they don't see him as one. In a good way. They see him more as an equal they can speak to rather than a leader they don't respect.
Citizens politely asked to speak with him. He listened to their issues. They've come to understand him more and he to them. That disconnect of citizen to ninja was beginning to close as well. That unspoken hierarchy of ninja superiority was slowly being knocked down so the villagers feel as if their problems are valid beyond a mission request. It should be more communal. It's not always about money.
He gained a fan club. The women of the village sometimes followed him. Especially when he got back into shape and began to do his laps with his shirt off. He got plenty of hoots and calls from the ladies as he drew their eyes with his every motion. It was flattering at first. Now it's just annoying. He doesn't say that to them, but most tend to stop tailing him when they see him kiss you. Which is a relief. He'd rather be with you over all the women in the village. There's nothing in this world that can replace your companionship.
He always helps you when he can. He helped you bring in the heavy crates of alcohol. On nights you were slammed with customers, no matter how tired he was, he helped you tend the bar. He's far from a mixologist, but he can pour a pint almost as well as you can. Since your bar is big with the military, lots of your patrons found it quite amusing to see their leader pour them a drink. It's nice to laugh with them. Sometimes he bounces the few that get a little too drunk. Although it was way funnier to watch you do it. You are remarkably smaller than the men who get tankered at your bar but you can drag them out by their ear like they are a disobedient child. But he preferred doing it. You don't need the extra stress even if it does make him chuckle. By helping you he's also discovered how much he now distastes the idea of drinking. Being around the smells of it made him sick sometimes, but he's stronger than that. He can be around it. All the shots his comrades buy him he nicely hands off to patrons that look like they are rationing their savings but wished to celebrate with their buddies.
It was like a sunny day in winter. The warmth that soaks in is unexpected but welcome. That how his people saw his sudden comeback. Jiraiya realized he had to do this not just for them, but himself. He is much happier. It took some time to realize that it was okay to be happy. He can't mourn for his whole life. Nor should he give into the grief his team had caused Konoha. He's not a great healer, but he can provide new rules and customs to ensure more people survive their missions. He's not a genius with jutsu or cruel with his actions, but he can offer support to the people that were effected by what Orochimaru had done. He's not the best leader, but maybe with some guidance he can become something similar to the great legacy his teacher had left. It was difficult to reach out to Hiruzen. He understood why now. It must have been awful for the old man. Watching his team, the children he saw grow and thrive, fall apart in different ways. Death, power hunger, and addiction. Thankfully, Hiruzen had recognized that Jiraiya had been doing better. He could again look upon his remaining student with pride.
Before long, another year passes. Jiraiya feels... different. Good different. Accomplished and proud. The grim clouds that darkened his world had fled. It always shines bright around here again. He's the leader of a peaceful village. A peace he worked hard to make happen. He repaired gaps his predecessors had made and forged new laws to make his home run better. His people thrive. They like having him as a leader now. It feels good to roll out of bed in the morning and coming into work. Because he's still making a difference. He hadn't realized all the good he could do in this position. He's not a puppet for the elders with ulterior motives anymore. He's the god damn Hokage. As you say it, he makes this place his bitch.
It was... a good day. Minato and Kushina came by with their little one. The baby Naruto was absolutely adorable as always. Jiraiya enjoyed holding and cooing at the little guy for a while as a break from his work. Those giggles and squeals of joy from a happy baby is noises he had no idea he would love so much. Hiruzen came over for some time too, just to talk. A good talk. The old man must be getting lonely. Not that he minds these chats. It's nice to have someone to talk to that understands the pressures of leadership on this scale. After a pot of tea and some good long conversation his teacher left. It was a slow mend, but it was mending nonetheless. When the clock strikes that certain time, something different happens today.
Usually Jiraiya bids farewell to the other ninja bogged down with their office positions and goes home. Today he still bid them goodbye, albeit quieter and noticeably less positive. When asked if he's doing okay, he simply smiles and tells them not to worry. He first bought some flowers. Then he went to the graveyard. There's really no words for him to say, write, think that can really describe how it feels to stand before the grave of someone he loves. He's been a coward. He couldn't bear to face Tsunade after she was taken to her final resting place. Today marked the first day he had visited her, on the anniversary of the day she was laid to rest. He just couldn't face her. Not when he was how he was. A hot mess that couldn't handle a day of clear thinking without her.
It's nice to talk to someone who loves him. With someone who grew up with him. Even if they can't say anything back. These long life updates were something they had always done. Since Jiraiya spent hundreds of hours away from home where family was, he couldn't talk to them. Whenever he came back he and Tsunade usually grabbed a drink and spent the night catching up. This wasn't so bad either. It's nice to give a girl he cares a lot about flowers and shoot the breeze about the little things that make life better.
"I got a girlfriend now. You'd probably like her. She's a lot like you in someways." Jiraiya told her with a soft chuckle. "She can rag on me in a way that reminds me of you."
There's no reply. Not one most people can hear. He can hear Tsunade scoffing and rolling her eyes. She'd probably call him something stupid and put him in a headlock only to ruffle his hair in that way she does that always bugged him. Then she'd let him go and congratulate him on finding a girl that can see past all his glaring flaws. She's just joking of course... mostly.
"Jay-Jay! Jay-Jay!" An excited cry broke his concentration.
Jiraiya turns around to see Ume barreling towards him. You are following with a stern look on your face. You are scowling at Ume as she clearly intruded on him. Not that he minded. Tsunade would have gotten along with Ume. His brows rise in surprise as he notices something. It makes him smile. No wonder she's so excited.
"I passed!" She squeals her success. She points at her newly acquired headband as she leaps around excitedly.
"Good for you, kiddo! I told you you would." He said as he ruffles her hair. That late night cram study with her wasn't all that necessary, but she was so worried he was more than happy to help her. She's rambling on about her nearly perfect test score. She's a smart kid. She just needs a little more confidence in her own abilities.
You let out an exasperated sigh as you finally caught up with your energetic child. You pull her back.
"God damn it! I'm really sorry, honey. She flew away from me." You exhale the words breathlessly.
"It's okay. She's got every reason to be excited." Jiraiya shrugs it off. He looks back down to Ume. "How are you celebrating your new found ninjahood?"
"Papa is gonna take me out for food and he's gonna show me a cool trick!"
"Sounds fun. Maybe you can tell me about it when you get home on Monday." He looks up towards the field of graves to what waits beyond it. "It looks like your papa is here to pick you up."
"Yeah!"
She bolts away from your grasp to back to the gates of the graveyard. There she began to hop around Ezume who was there to hop around with her. Jiraiya raises a hand to wave at them both. They both return it. Ezume is too far away to see expressions, but a small part of Jiraiya feels victorious. That small part of him that's petty and full of spite is vindicated. He proved Ezume wrong. He just wants to beam a sly smirk at the other man for getting his shit together. He fixed not just himself but the parts of the village that were falling apart. That included the Uchiha, who honestly just wanted to be a part of the village's affairs. It feels good to be right. It feels good to be good. And while Ume will always find Ezume cooler, Jiraiya didn't mind being stuck in the number two spot. It's just fun to be more of a father figure to her now than he was a year ago.
Now it's just you and him. He smiles at you as you take those few steps to be close to him. He likes to tell himself it was out of spite he got better, but it's just a lie. If you weren't in his life he never would have gotten better. He'd still be a lonely depressed drunk if you didn't love him back. You approach slowly and stand in front of him. You place your arms around him in a hug. He returns it. You know he's sad. But you don't say anything. As you have always done since you walked into his life, you simply are there to help him. A kiss to his cheek and an assuring squeeze is enough to convey your support. It means the world to him to have you here.
"Are you finished here? Or shall I come back later?" You ask.
"I'm..." Jiraiya pauses. He looks over his shoulder back to the grave. He swallows the lump down his throat and comes to a conclusion. "Yeah I'm done. Let's go get something to eat."
"Ezume said it was cool if we came along."
"Nah." He dismisses with a wave. "Let him and Ume have their time together. I like having you to myself anyways."
"Is that so?" You retract to hold onto his arm instead. You look at him with a smirk. "And where the fuck do you plan on taking me, my lord?"
"I'll fucking take you alright." He growled in a flirtatious way. He leans towards your face until he could peck your lips.
You grabbed his head and kept him there. You tilted your head to deepen the kiss. It's something he's learned about you, but like everything he's discovered about being with you, he quite enjoyed how dominant you could be. It's been building more and more recently as you and him got more sexual.
"Fuck the meal then. You feeling up to it, champ?" You purr at him.
"Is that a challenge, babe? 'Cause I can be a real beast when you work me up."
"Prove it."
Jiraiya laughs before picking up the pace. You and him run to your apartment. By then it was hard to keep clothes on. They were scattered across the apartment by the time you had him straddled on the bed. It felt so wonderful to kiss your belly right above your panties while pulling the fabric down. The silky black fabric compliments everything about you. Pretty. Soft. A little gothic.
Life had been so busy he kinda hadn't realized he hadn't had sex in a while. Not that it defined him or anything, it was something he realized. He's both excited and anxious to do it with you. While you and him have been intimate, it hadn't gone all the way. It just as amazing as every moment with you was. You are so gorgeous to look at. The pretty tattoos you have make good paths to follow with his tongue and lips. It's hard to describe how much he loves to touch you. To worship every bit of you while he discovered how phenomenal making love was. Your curse words were spoken breathlessly. Your body arches as your fingers dig into his back. Your breath hitched as his did. He held you in place while he rolled his hips. For a moment his vision blurred. An explosion of stimulus had overwhelmed him for a time he couldn't keep track of.
Once the eventual fall happens, it still lingers in the atmosphere. The satisfaction and eventual want for more was hanging around. But for the sake of both his and yours stamina a break was needed. Jiraiya lays beside you. Not quite spooning but nice and cuddly all the same. His fingers light and feathery as he drags them along your arm. You tell him the stories behind some of the ink you got. The plum branch that coils around your arm with ten little blossoms for Ume. The leaf symbol on your wrist you got for your time in the military, to which he learned you retired once you found out you were pregnant. A paddle fan for Ezume. All these things have such cool stories to them.
"Will I get a spot on ya?" Jiraiya asks. He drags his hand down to dance around the little heart you got on your hip.
"Do you really need a fucking spot?"
"I might." He chuckles. An idea comes to mind. He reached lower and squeezed your ass. "How about here?"
You squawked as he pulled your ass against his crotch while he smooshed your butt with his hands. You reached back and smacked his hands. To which he rolled over to pin you under him while his attacked your neck in kisses.
"Stop it!" You whine. "You fucker! If you keep that up I'll get a tattoo of your cute fucking mug in the shape of a dick on my ass."
"To be fair that's accurate." He says with an amused hum.
"Oh shut your trap. You're too fucking cute for that." You pause for a moment. Your hand escaped the trap between yours and his body. You run it into his hair in a caress. "To be honest, I think I'd get something that reminds me of you. A symbol of some kind."
"What kind of symbol?"
You pause again. Jiraiya adjusts before settling. He released your ass to instead lay his hand on your stomach. It lowered slowly. You gasp quietly when he curls his fingers against your sex. He takes in a deep breath out of excitement as he's met with the enticing sensation of slick wetness. He shoves his knee between your legs to keep you from rubbing your thighs together. You whine and mewl as he began to rub your clit. Your legs squeeze his and you shift against him. More of that intoxicating wetness began to meet his leg as he excites you again.
"Fuck! Fuck! Fuck me I-I!" You stammer as he jerks you off with hard fast strokes.
"Tell me, babe. I'm curious on what defines me to you." He whispers against your ear. He pushes his hips against your ass. He's eager for your answer.
"Oh you fucking tease! I do-don't know!"
He turns you into your stomach and lays on top of you. You whine when he stops touching you. You whine harder when he teases you with the head of his cock barely pushing into you. He's hard and so ready to do this again. His whole body is sensitive and almost on edge with anticipation.
"I guess I'll have to fuck the answer out of you." Jiraiya concludes smugly. He licks your ear and nips it before continuing. "Maybe if I fuck you hard enough you'll come up with something good."
You scoff. The sheets shift as you grip them hard. You take back some control as you push backwards to take more of his cock. He was never patient when it came to this and met you half way. Both you and him moan from the feeling. He keeps shifting, small little thrusts as he's eager to start again yet he doesn't want to lose this little game. You are in the same place, rocking back and forth in small motions with a need.
"Try it motherfucker. I'm a hard woman to break." You meet his challenge with a steely resolve.
"I am a motherfucker and a determined one at that."
Your cool resolve breaks as you giggle at his joke. He grabs your hips and kisses your neck. You whine and cry out his name as he began again, setting the second round just as hard and passionate as the first one.
The session finished in the wee hours of the morning. Only because it was hard to stay awake. By that time you were an overwhelmed lusted out mess. Jiraiya grins at you as you cuddle up beside him again with your arms around him. Your face flushed and body on high alert for more. But he could hardly keep his eyes open. You couldn't either. You groan when he shifted and held onto him tighter. His chest was your pillow and you weren't to keen on him moving. He simply sighs before getting settled into the position he was in even if it wasn't the most comfortable. His heavy eyes fall shut.
In the last moments of clarity, Jiraiya couldn't help but be thankful. For you. For Ume. The rest of his family that's still here and the new one he's found with you. It's all because of them he's in a better place. He can't ponder on that question anymore. The one he's asked himself so many times these six years he's been Hokage.
What does life mean? And what is it worth to him?
It means family. And it's worth everything in the world.