Raine in the Desert

by Hack Interrupted

Gaara finds the love of his life

17. Chapter 17

17

There was screaming, crying and even a little hitting, but Sasuke finally explained Gaara's plan to Raine and to Tsunade when she arrived. The ninja could see the brilliance of Gaara's plan; the boys would be completely protected by the hokage once she legally adopted them. The former kazekage's 'death' served multiple purposes as well. Sand, and hopefully Sound, would be lured into a false sense of security with such a powerful foe dispatched. Raine would technically become widowed and marrying the Uchiha automatically made her a citizen of Konoha. Tsunade would have all the time she needed to find Kikyo, treat Gaara and protect him and his family.

Raine ended up going back down to Yuna's office and the counselor did her best to smooth things over between Raine and her family. Frustrated and wishing she could talk to her husband Raine went home and waited for Temari to bring the boys back from the playground. Sasuke kept his distance. Raine had agreed to give Tsunade custody but it was upsetting to her. She thought taking Gaara out of his body was insane and she straight up refused to marry Sasuke. The Uchiha backed off and waited for her to calm down. It took three long and awkward days.

Finally it was Kankuro that exercised his right as head of the family that broke the stalemate. He told Tsunade to send a message to Sand that Gaara was fading and then he went and talked to his little mouse. He didn't like to be mean and yet again he made her cry but Raine signed over the boys to Tsunade and told mean old Sasuke to just go ahead and kill him you sick bastard! She spent two hours crying in her room and Sasuke sent Hiei to get Yuna.

Tsunade received a response from Suna within a week and the plan Gaara had relayed to the Uchiha was in full motion. Sasuke would see Gaara just before the Sand ninja coming to pay their final respects could. A medical team would declare Gaara dead; the specialist from Suna would have to concur. After Sasuke took care of Gaara he and Raine would sign their names to a marriage license. Suna would be able to pull no punches; Gaara's family would be safe.

The day before the envoy from Sand arrived a sheepish Kankuro went to talk to his little mouse. Raine was still upset with him; hurt and angry that big brother could just go along with Gaara and Sasuke's crazy plan. The big ninja tried again to make mouse understand they had to do what must be done to preserve Gaara's family until he was able to take care of them himself. "Gaara wants you and the boys here for him when he wakes up mouse. Tsunade has Kiba's team searching for the old woman now. Be strong a little longer. This will all be over soon."

"I don't like the idea of Gaara being dead and I don't want to be married to anyone else but him," Raine pouted.

"Gaara will be fine, so will you. Drastic times call for drastic measures. Gaara is trying to protect you from Baki. You have to listen to him mouse."

Raine sagged into the couch. She could hear the boys laughing and splashing in their little pool outside. Sasuke and Sakura were cheering them on. "I just want Gaara back."

"We all do. He'll come back to us. Tsunade will find a way." Kankuro talked to his sweetheart a lot about his baby brother. Sakura was confident Tsunade would help Gaara she just need the luxury of time to do so. "It will be alright mouse, you'll see."

She still didn't like it, but Raine was trying to accept her fate, Gaara's fate. She tucked the boys in and went to her room like she had every night since Sasuke made contact with Gaara. The Uchiha had been cautious and accommodating, he had given her the space and time she needed to let Gaara's plan sink in. Sasuke didn't talk about it, he was trying his best not to upset her anymore then she already was.

Tomorrow was the big day and the Uchiha was nervous. He couldn't concentrate on TV as he sat alone in the living room. He missed Raine's company but he was afraid to make her mad at him. When Sasuke told her Gaara wanted her to marry him Raine had smacked him hard enough to leave a handprint on his arm even through his shirt. Defiantly scary. The Uchiha flicked off the TV and headed down the hall to his room.

He paused at Raine's bedroom door. The light was on but all was quiet inside. Sasuke knew Raine had been drawing again. She had been venting her frustrations using her Tippy Black pencils. Drawing kept her busy and focused; Yuna said it was good for her. Anxiously Sasuke knocked at the door. "Raine, you decent?"

"Yes," she answered through the door. "You can come in."

Sasuke swallowed hard and opened the door. Raine was sitting on her bed with her sketchbook in her lap. "I was gonna turn in. You need anything?"

She shook her head. "I'm fine."

"Okay. Just holler if you need anything."

"Sasuke?" Raine held him where he was for a moment.

"Yeah?"

She set her art book down and slipped off the edge of the bed. Raine went to her nervous looking protector, the man she was going to have to marry come tomorrow. "Gaara is going to be alright isn't he? You're not going to hurt him?"

"He'll be fine Raine. I just need to pull him out of his body for a little while."

"So he can be dead." Raine frowned worried.

Sasuke took a chance and took a step closer to Raine. "Gaara isn't going to die. I'll get him back into his body before that can happen. He'll be okay I promise."

"You're sure?"

He smiled reassuringly at her. "I'm sure."

Gaara… as soon as her husband was declared dead Raine was to become an Uchiha. "By this time tomorrow I'll be married to you."

Married to Raine. It made his heart skip a beat. "Only on paper," he reminded her to reassure her even if it did bum him out a little. "So I can take care of you."

"There's no other way?"

"You need to be protected Raine. You know that."

"Baki," just saying his name left a bad taste in her mouth.

Sasuke rested a hand on his shoulder. "He'll pay for this when Gaara is well again."

Raine almost hoped Gaara would kill the mean jerk. "How could he do this to Gaara? He was his sensei. He's known Gaara all of his life."

"He's probably feared and hated Gaara all of his life too. You understand what things were like until Gaara changed. His people were afraid of him. His own father tried to kill him. Gaara was their sacrifice."

She stepped back and Sasuke took his hand off her shoulder. "Are you sure Gaara will be alright?"

"Yes. I'll take good care of him."

A little sigh escaped. "I don't mean to be mean or sound ungrateful Sasuke, but I don't want to marry you. I love my husband and I want him to stay my husband."

It hurt a little to hear her say it. "I understand. I'm sorry it had to be like this."

Sasuke looked sorry, sad. It's because of how he feels, he doesn't mind marrying me. Raine sighed again. "You're not the one who needs to be sorry. Gaara should be sorry. I'm gonna kick his butt." She started to pace. "I mean, marriage is a big deal. Maybe you ninja guys think its okay to play around with something so serious but I don't. I remember my wedding day, it was so perfect. I've always been so happy with Gaara."

Her eyelids looked sort of heavy. Sasuke thought the valume she popped earlier had kicked in. Raine was a little high. "I know Raine; we're just trying to protect you."

"My dress was beautiful. Temari looked lovely. Shikamaru couldn't take his eyes off of her," she ceased her pacing and smiled in reminiscence.

There she goes. "I've seen a few pictures."

"You don't understand what I'm trying to say to you at all do you?"

Uh oh. "You're very serious about marriage," he tried to sound sure.

Raine rolled her eyes. Stupid ninja. "I'm not a ninja and I don't care if it sounds girly but yes. This whole thing is just wrong."

"Raine I know you're not happy about this." Sasuke took a step back toward the hall. He wanted to be gone before she started to really nag. She had been a bitch for days, she was even still mad at Kankuro and now she was talking about kicking Gaara's butt too.

She thought about the message her honey bear gave Sasuke to pass on. "Keh! Farm out my children to Tsunade, marry me off to you. Damn Gaara I should go to the hospital right now and slap him awake."

"Take it easy. He's doing the right thing to protect you all from Baki."

"What about you Sasuke? Gaara is using you too. Aren't you pissed about any of this? You aren't Tsunade's biggest fan and now she owns the boys."

"It isn't permanent." He hadn't got clear in time. Just let her complain a little and then duck out.

"And I suppose us getting married is no big deal either right? Uchiha Raine, that doesn't bother you at all?"

Uchiha Raine…his heart skipped a beat hearing his name joined with hers. "It's fine."

Raine stepped closer and frowned at husband number two. "What if Gaara doesn't wake up? What if he leaves me stuck like this? All of us stuck like this?"

"That won't happen. Gaara will come back to us."

"Why are you doing this Sasuke? You don't owe anything to me or to Gaara. You're my shadow as it is. Getting married, it's too much."

Sasuke reached over and took Raine's hands. "We're all friends right? Friends help each other don't they? Gaara gave me a chance and you gave me a life. You're my best friend. I love you Raine and I'll do whatever it takes to protect you." He smiled at her and the argument was over. "It's going to be fine. You'll see."

Before she could argue anymore Sasuke kissed her cheek and hurried to his room. Raine rolled her eyes and closed her door. "Best friends ne?" Raine went back to her drawing. Gaara what the hell are you getting me into.

Raine fixed breakfast while Sasuke got the boys to the table. Renji was still tired, yawning and rubbing his eyes. "No orange juice, blue juice."

"No Kool-Aid for breakfast Renji," Sasuke smiled at him. "Orange juice is good for you."

"I don't want crust," Renji pouted.

"Mommy knows." Sasuke went to the counter to help butter toast. Raine looked tense this morning, worried about everything that was to happen today. She'll be my wife by sundown. Sasuke cut the crust off Renji's toast for him. "I think Naruto wants to go to the park today." Naruto and Sakura had offered to take the boys to the park while Sasuke and Raine dealt with grown up matters.

Gabe perked up. "Naruto?"

Raine smiled despite her stressful mood. "You have to eat all your breakfast if you want to go with Naruto."

"Drink your juice too," Sasuke helped. She nodded at him gratefully and then there was time for nothing else. He heard the door and Kankuro came in followed by Sakura and Naruto. The party from Sand had arrived.

They left the boys having breakfast and proceeded with the plan. Kankuro and Temari went to hokage's to greet their fellow shinobi, Sasuke Raine and Shikamaru hurried to the hospital. Cho and Yuna were waiting for them in Gaara's room. The attorney produced the marriage license from his bag and offered a pen to the Uchiha. Sasuke signed and held out the pen to Raine.

"No."

"Raine," Sasuke tried to sound a little impatient.

"No."

Yuna stepped closer to her patient. "It's for your own protection. Especially now that the envoy from Suna has arrived."

This was defiantly troublesome. "Raine, we have no time for you to be stubborn." Shikamaru folded his arms across his chest. "Don't give us any shit just because Kankuro's not here."

Bunch of bullies. "I'm telling Temari on you."

His eyebrow twitched. "Don't be troublesome."

Sasuke shoved the pen in her hand. "Sign it. We're getting out of here before those bastards that think you're the kazekage's property get here. Tsunade needs to file it with Gaara's death certificate. Now sign it so I can get Gaara and we can get the hell out of here." Sasuke frowned at her. This was no time for tantrums.

The door to Gaara's room popped open and Shizune came in. "If you're going to do it Uchiha, do it. Tsunade can't stall much longer."

Sasuke hurried to Gaara's bed side and Raine felt the scream Wait! get stuck in her throat. The Uchiha frowned down at her husband as his hands moved through the seals. Raine took a step forward and Shikamaru stepped up beside her to keep her in her place. "Gaara…"

Here goes… Sasuke made the final seal. Come into me Gaara. He pulled Gaara's soul and consciousness from his body and drew it into his own. There was a high pitched screaming in Sasuke's ears and a fire in his chest. Gaara's power was incredible. He wavered and Cho and Shikamaru caught him before he fell.

"Sasuke!" Raine panicked. Something must be wrong. Suddenly the machines hooked up to Gaara stared to beep. He was dead. "Oh my god Gaara!"

Shikamaru tended to Raine while Cho steadied the Uchiha. "Take it easy Raine it's all part of the plan."

Gaara was awake he was alert and aware inside of Sasuke. It's alright Raine I'm right here. Gaara tried to look at her but he couldn't move Sasuke's body. Raine?

"I've got him," Gaara was noisy. "I can hear him in my head."

In your head? Raine can't here me? I can't move. Look at her.

Raine blinked at Sasuke as he turned her way. "Gaara is…?"

I'm right here!

"He's fine."

Can't she hear me?

"No, I'm the only one that can hear you now stop your shouting!" Sasuke seemed to yell at no one. Gaara was giving him a headache.

"Uhh…Sasuke?" Shikamaru was concerned.

Sasuke looked at Raine and Gaara saw her for the first time in a long time. Raine…I want to hold her. Take me to her Sasuke.

"Take it easy Gaara." Sasuke straightened. Raine stepped his way with a curious look on her face. All eyes were on him.

Hug her. I want to hold her. Tell her I love her!

"Gaara loves you," he told her not getting any closer to Raine. "Sign the license we have to go."

What? She hasn't done it yet? I thought you could handle this Sasuke. You have to protect her from Baki!

"I know!" Sasuke yelled back. "I've done everything else you asked. She's the one fighting you not me."

That is unacceptable. Gaara saw the pen in her hand. Behind her was the agreement on a rolling table. Its right there. Tell her to sign it right now!

"Gaara says sign it right now," Sasuke was quickly getting aggravated with his guest.

"I don't want to," Raine argued.

Tell her she has to. My last order as her kage and her husband is for her to sign that damn thing now.

Sasuke didn't want to repeat that. She might claw his eyes out. "He's ordering you as your kage and husband to sign it so just sign it so we can get out of here please."

Raine frowned. Sasuke looked frazzled. "Can Gaara see me? Can he hear me?"

Yes!

"Yes he can. And he's commenting about it. Now would you please hurry Raine we have to go."

She pointed a finger at the Uchiha. "You're a jerk Gaara!" Raine turned and signed her name. "Uchiha Raine, is everybody happy now?"

A weird feeling swept through his body as Sasuke's feelings and Gaara's collided and sometimes merged. He took a step forward. "Raine, it's to protect you."

She's mad at me.

"Gaara knows you're upset. Why don't we go someplace other then here and talk?" Before anyone could argue further Sasuke took Raine's arm and started them for the door. Shikamaru fell in line and they herded Raine out.

Sasuke tried to get them out of the hospital quickly. They made it just outside and were almost in the clear when the party from Suna came around the corner. Baki walked beside Tsunade. Raine caught sight of him and froze. Shikamaru almost walked right into her. "Shit," Sasuke grumbled.

Baki. Gaara watched him through Sasuke's eyes. He was dressed as the kazekage.

"Let's get the hell out of here," Shikamaru suggested quickly.

Baki had seen them and steered their way for a moment. "Uchiha, I think you have something that belongs to me."

Instinctively he pulled Raine behind him. "We aren't looking for trouble."

The kazekage leaned in closer to the Uchiha to protect Tsunade's delicate ears. "That bitch behind you belongs in my harem. She was a gift to the kage of Suna, that's me."

Gaara was instantly furious. You fucking BASTARD! Hit him Sasuke!

Sasuke moved them back another step away from the new kazekage. "She's Gaara's wife." He tried again to get them out of there.

"Not ready to give up fucking your mistress yet ne Uchiha?"

Gaara's fury added to Sasuke's own. Shikamaru grabbed Raine and started leading her away. "You don't know what you're talking about old man."

Baki flicked his eyes from the Uchiha to Gaara's retreating woman. "Raine of the red sands, you can't run away from me forever. I'll get you," he grinned at Sasuke. "Show her what an older man with experience can do to such a tasty little thing."

Kill him! Gaara commanded. He could feel Sasuke's anger. That son of a bitch! How dare he?

The Uchiha snarled at the pig. "You'll never touch her." Angrily he turned and hurried after Shikamaru and Raine. He took her other arm and hurried them along faster.

"That was unpleasant," Shikamaru peeked over his shoulder. Baki was rejoining Tsunade behind them.

"I hate that guy," Raine hissed. "Did Gaara hear what he said?" She cut her eyes up to Sasuke waiting for an answer.

Your godamn right I heard that shit!

"Yes he did," Sasuke took a deep breath trying to calm down. He steered them back toward home.

"What does he have to say about all of this ne? You see this crap Gaara?"

Yes Raine. He missed her. Baki should die. He's always been too interested in power. You keep that guy away from her Sasuke. Kill him if you can get away with it.

Sasuke grit his teeth. He had already proposed that before Baki was even kage. "Gaara's sorry Baki spoke to you like that. He's sorry you have to endure this kind of bullshit."

It wasn't what he said but Good one Sasuke.

"He sees Baki is a bad person?" she kept looking at Sasuke trying to find Gaara.

"Gaara sees how tough things are for you right now Raine. He's sorry."

I am sorry. She shouldn't have to go through this. She deserves better.

They were hurrying home. The boys would be back from the playground soon, sooner if any Sand ninja started bugging them. Kankuro and Temari should be on route to their nephews now. "This isn't easy for me Gaara," Raine complained.

I'm sorry baby. Tell her I'm sorry Sasuke please.

"He's sorry Raine."

Tell her I love her.

The Uchiha sighed. "Gaara says he loves you."

Raine leaned into Sasuke a little. "He better."

They walked back to the old Uchiha section of town. Gaara noticed fresh paint all up and down the block. The neighborhood looks different. They passed two houses and went into the place where Sasuke had grown up. Gaara took in the sights as the Uchiha followed his wife into the kitchen. There were pictures on the fridge the boys had colored for mommy and Sasuke.

"I told Sakura she didn't have to clean the kitchen," the dishwasher was full of breakfast dishes and the table had been wiped clean of strawberry jelly.

The boys! Where are the boys?

"At the park with Naruto and Sakura. They'll be home soon."

My sons! Gaara was excited he was going to see his boys.

Shikamaru took a seat at the table. "You sound loony talking to yourself Uchiha."

"I was talking to Gaara," Sasuke frowned.

Raine took three clean glasses from the cupboard. "I want to talk to Gaara Sasuke," she warned and looked at him sidelong. "Do you hear me Gaara?"

Shit. I think I'm in trouble.

Sasuke chuckled. "I know you are."

"What?" she moved to the freezer for a tray of ice cubes.

Oh yeah? Well it's your ass she'll kick. I'm in your body sucker. Gaara laughed. Even if Raine was mad he loved seeing her fuss in her kitchen.

The Uchiha had an idea, a bit of a surprise. "Watch this." Sasuke moved a bit closer to Raine and smiled at her. "I have a surprise for you Raine."

She frowned at him and closed the freezer door. Sasuke brought his hands up and made a clone. "What are you…?"

Sasuke turned to his clone. "Go ahead Gaara, take over that one. Let him," he directed.

Why didn't I think of this? Gaara came forward and took over the body the Uchiha made for him. He brought his hand up and looked at them. "Mind if I use some chakra?"

"Please do. You're a bit much Gaara."

The Sasuke clone smiled and then his appearance changed. Red hair, painted beautiful pale green eyes. "Gaara…" her grip on the ice tray faltered and she half dropped half set it on the counter. Her husband was standing in her kitchen smiling at her. "Gaara!"

Gaara opened his arms to his wife and she hurried to him with tears in her eyes. "Raine." Gaara hugged her to him. It was good to hold her again. "I missed you."

She clung tightly to him trying not to cry. She didn't even want to blink; she was afraid he'd disappear. "It's really you?"

"I'm here." Gaara knew that being in Sasuke's clone meant the Uchiha would retain all the information the clone obtained but right now he didn't care. "I love you." Gaara closed his mouth over hers and kissed his wife.

Sasuke lifted a brow and stepped back. He hadn't expected Gaara to go slob the minute he gave him a body. "Uhh…"

Shikamaru grinned. "Now see what you've done Sasuke?"

He looked away from the kissing couple to the ninja at the table. I'm going to be stuck with the memory… what is he doing? "I didn't think he'd do this."

Smiling Shikamaru stood up next to Sasuke. Quietly enough to keep it between them he reminded the Uchiha, "Raine's no ninja she doesn't know anything about shadow clones. She thinks she's got Gaara back. Look how happy you've made her."

Sasuke and Shikamaru turned to the couple just as Raine started to go off. "How can you do this to me Gaara? Don't you understand what's going on?"

"Yeah she's thrilled," Sasuke took a step back.

Gaara didn't let go of her. He stared down into her eyes. "It won't always be this way but for now it's the best way to protect you and the boys."

Raine turned to her brother and her protector. "Do you mind giving us a minute?"

They ran like rats fleeing a sinking ship. Gaara didn't think that was a good sign. "Raine, I know you're upset."

"No you don't. You don't know anything. You've been asleep for three months. I've been awake dealing with this crap."

"You've been very brave Raine and I thank you."

She frowned at him. She didn't want his complements or praise. "You made me give up the kids and marry Sasuke."

Shit, no wonder Sasuke gave me a body. "It isn't like that. You have the boys."

"And I've been raising them. Sasuke helps a lot. Hasn't he done enough for us Gaara?"

"He is protecting you and our babies for me."

"This isn't fair Gaara. You took away my wedding day."

His love was pouting at him. "No I didn't. Our wedding day will always be perfect."

"And we're going to do that again right Gaara?" she nearly growled.

Another wedding to make it up to her. "Of course we are."

Raine sighed frustrated and stepped back. Men couldn't understand her sentimentality. "I want new rings and everything."

Gaara smiled and hugged her again. "You can have anything you want. It's going to be okay." He kissed her again and ended their argument.

Gaara went to Raine's room where she had his clothes she brought from Sand. Her room was red and pink with lots of throw pillows. I bet she loves it. Smiling Gaara dressed in familiar clothes and went to the living room where Raine was serving tea. It was a nice set up; Shikamaru had the big TV on some morning show. "Nice."

"Tea Gaara?" Raine smiled to see him looking like himself.

"Sure." He took the tea from his wife and looked at the Uchiha. "You wanna get Hiei and Judda in here? I want to talk to them before the boys get home."

Sasuke got up at once. "I'll get them." He went to the front door and called their ANBU to them. They had been informed of the plan but they were both thrilled to see their kage.

"Thank you all for your loyalty to protect my family," Gaara included Sasuke and Shikamaru. "The worst may be yet to come I'm afraid. The news of my death may make Orochimaru feel bold enough to try to take Raine. Shinobi from Sand may come after Raine and the boys. I'm counting on all of you to do your best to keep them safe."

Judda pushed his mask up. "We'll protect your family with our lives Gaara."

Hiei showed Gaara his face too. "We'll stay sharp."

"Nobody's getting through me," Sasuke added.

Gaara smiled. "Thanks guys." The ANBU said their farewells and went out. Gaara put his arm around Raine's waist and set his tea down. "Show me the boy's rooms."

Raine led Gaara down the hall. "Yusuke and Renji's room."

Gaara stepped in and looked around. It was a cute room, a lot of bright colors and they had kiddie beds that looked like the Going Merry from Shikamaru's manga books. He saw a stretch Luffy on the top shelf of the bookcase. "You've been spoiling Raine." He smiled at her.

"Sasuke is the one that goes wild with the toys. I buy them clothes. They need those much more. They're growing boys."

It felt good to be nagged and Gaara laughed. "Show me Gabe's room."

One of the beds in Gabe's room was dominated with Lego structures; a castle some Star Wars play sets and more One Piece. "Gabe and his Lego's." Gaara heard the door and squealing children. For a moment he froze as he heard little feet running his way. My boys! Gaara turned and stepped out into the hall.

Gabe saw him first. "Daddy!" he ran to his father. "Daddy got here!"

Gaara got to one knee and Gabe jumped into his arms. The twins were right behind him. "Hi guys!" he hugged his boys.

"Daddy we got pool!" Renji wanted daddy to swim.

"We got bike. Gabe got big boy bike," Yusuke wanted to tell daddy something too.

Raine stepped out into the hall and looked down at Gaara with her boys. They babbled excitedly hugging on him and Gaara stole a hundred kisses. The sight was enough to soften up her angry hurting heart. Maybe she could forgive him.

"I do ninja training with Sasuke sensei. Mommy said it was okay even though I not five," Gabe smiled at his dad. "I be a ninja too. Go in the academy."

His son was ready for it Gaara was sure. He was glad Sasuke had pushed Raine to get him enrolled. "I bet you'll like it."

Yusuke took daddy's hand. "Come play with the castle."

His sons pulled him into Gabe's room and Gaara sat with his excited boys. He wouldn't have much time with them, he would have to return to his own body soon, but for now he would enjoy every minute he had with his family. Raine came and sat beside him. She snuggled against him and Gaara put an arm around her. Dear god I miss this.

After the boys were plenty distracted Gaara and Raine snuck out and back to the adults. Temari had tears in her eyes when she hugged her little brother and Kankuro squeezed him hard. "I've missed you guys too."

"Mouse and the boys are okay Gaara," Kankuro assured his brother.

"I wish you could come see our place," Temari was excited to have a home with her husband. "Well, you will when you're better."

Gaara nodded. "Sorry about this guys. I appreciate all you've done."

Kankuro grinned at his brother. "Appreciate Sasuke, he gave mouse three million bucks. If it was a pay off not to bitch it didn't work," he teased hoping mouse would forgive him now that she had 'seen Gaara'.

Raine's feelings were still a little bent. "You're the one who yelled at me."

"Kankuro's too rough sometimes," Temari tried to nip it in the bud.

"He was just doing what I asked to be done Raine," Gaara stuck up for his brother.

She looked at her husband. She wanted to speak to him alone before he had to go. "Come here Gaara," Raine started toward her bedroom.

Uh oh. "Uh Gaara," Sasuke warned. "We got like a half an hour before we gotta go."

Gaara nodded at the Uchiha's stressed frown. "Alright. Let me say goodbye to Raine and kiss the boys again." He turned and followed his wife into her room. Gaara shut the door behind them so they could have some privacy. Raine came to him and he hugged her. "I love you."

"I love you." She buried her face against him. "I don't want you to go."

"I don't want to go." Raine looked up at him with pleading eyes. "I'm sorry Raine."

"I miss you so much Gaara." She fought the urge to cry.

He couldn't stand the sorrow in her eyes. "I miss you too." He pulled her close and Gaara kissed his wife. He tried not to let it get too exciting but her familiar lips missed his kisses. Their kiss became passionate. I wish I could…

She dug her hands into Gaara's wild red hair. Gaara…I've missed this so… he broke their kiss and Gaara nibbled on the sensitive spot below her ear.

I really want to… he grabbed her ass through the fabric of her skirt and leaned her back over his arm.

"Gaara," she sighed. It's been so long.

"I love you," he whispered in her ear and then he was kissing her again.

Gaara promised her everything was going to be alright. Soon this would all be over and Gaara would come home to stay. They checked in on the boys again; Gaara kissed them all and went out without telling them he was going away. Finally he came back to the living room to his waiting friends and family. There were hugs all around and lastly Gaara went to his wife.

"I don't want you to go," Raine kept the tears away. She wanted to be strong in front of everyone. Gaara swept her into his arms and hugged her.

"I love you. Take good care of the boys." He kissed her one last time and turned to the Uchiha still holding Raine's hand. "Okay Sasuke, let's go."

Her husband vanished, the clone was gone and he was back in Sasuke. Sasuke looked at her with sad eyes. Raine turned and ran to her room to cry. Temari chased after her. The clone's memories settled into his mind, for now he did his best not to acknowledge them. "Take her a valume," he directed at Kankuro.

"I got it, you just go," Sakura headed for the kitchen.

Sasuke was ready to be gone, ready to put the now quiet Gaara back in his own body. Shikamaru followed him to the door and went out into the bright morning sunshine. "We'll go in the back way."

Shikamaru looked at Sasuke sidelong. "Everything okay?"

He could feel Gaara, but Gaara was surprisingly silent. "Yeah fine. Aint that right Gaara?" A long silence. Gaara?

I'm sorry she has to go through this. I don't want her to suffer.

"We're all doing our best to take care of her."

You've done much to help her Sasuke. Thank you for being there for her and the boys. Your guidance has served them all well.

"I do what I can."

Shikamaru still found Sasuke talking aloud to no one strange. "You've done a real good job with Raine and the boys. You're the level head in that house buddy."

You got Raine help when she needed it. You're training Gabe and I'll bet you built all of those Lego things on the bed in his room too. Bikes and the swimming pool and the safest neighborhood in Konoha. You've done well Uchiha.

Sasuke sighed a little and answered Shikamaru so he didn't sound crazy. "Raine needs a little direction sometimes."

You're good with her, to her? Gaara wanted to be totally sure.

"I try my best with her. She can be difficult sometimes. Our relationship aint the fluff you guys had, she bitches at me."

"I'll testify to that," Shikamaru had seen it with his own eyes. "But she also listens to you about most things."

Gaara was reflecting on all that he had taken in being back amongst the living for a while. It was heartbreaking to be separated from his family again. She cried when I left.

"Of course she did. She misses you." Sasuke tried not to sulk.

Does she cry a lot?

"Sometimes, when she's upset."

Do you comfort her?

The Uchiha rubbed at his temple. "I try."

Is there something else we can do to make it easier on her?

"You got any bright ideas?" Sasuke was a little irritated.

You're angry with me Sasuke?

Gaara had used Sasuke's clone to roll around with Raine on her bed for ten minutes. "I didn't think you'd be such a slob in my clone. Thanks for asking if I mind."

She needed me Sasuke. I love her and I can't refuse her.

"Whatever," Sasuke grumbled. He knew the exact spot on her neck to kiss to get her motor running, the way she liked to be kissed, the way she kissed when she was excited. As if being right beside her all of these months wasn't challenging enough, now Gaara threw this into the mess.

He knew the Uchiha was aware of what he had done with Raine alone in her room. Sorry Sasuke. I missed her.

It was all clear at the cross street and they kept moving toward the hospital. He had wondered what it was like to be Gaara, now he was sorry he knew. "She's going to be miserable," he said to no one in particular.

"Temari and I can help with the boys," Shikamaru offered.

Can't you do something to make this up to her Sasuke? Jewelry maybe?

Sasuke rolled his eyes. Gaara took Raine much too lightly. "I don't think jewelry is going to make this all better Gaara."

"Nope," Shikamaru shook his head. "Sasuke's in the dog house now."

"Fuck that," Sasuke grumbled. "I let her see Gaara. It's him she should be mad at."

"You'll hear the shit though. The crying and complaining and then she'll find some reason to call you a jerk too."

Sorry Sasuke.

"Forget about it," Sasuke answered them both.

I owe you for this.

"I don't mind taking care of Raine and the boys."

You really love them all don't you Uchiha?

"I love them all like family."

"We are family," Shikamaru agreed.

Gaara was quiet for a moment and then Sasuke; promise me you'll always look after them. I want them to be safe. I want them to be happy.

"I'll take care of them Gaara."

Is there anything you can do to make Raine happy?

"Shinobi are searching for Saichi and that Kikyo woman. Finding them will make her happy. She wants you and Saichi back."

Kikyo was wise and Gaara thought she might know a way to help him, but it all took time and there was no iron clad guarantee he was going to get any better. Sasuke…if Kikyo can't help me you have to protect Raine and the boys. You Tsunade Naruto, only you three are strong enough to stand up to Orochimaru or Sand.

"I know. I'll take care of them."

Love them with all of your heart Sasuke. They need you. Sasuke was more then protector, he was Raine's companion and sensei to the boys.

The hospital came into view and Sasuke kicked his senses up a notch. "I'll do my best for them Gaara."

Shizune was waiting for them in Gaara's room. "It's been over two hours!"

Sasuke hurried to Gaara's bedside and Gaara knew it was time to go back. Tell Raine I'm sorry, I love her. Kiss the boys for me.

"Sure Gaara." Sasuke's hands moved through the seals. Feeling Gaara leave him and take his power with him knocked the wind out of Sasuke's sails. He staggered back and flopped into the chair. A moment later Gaara's machines resumed their rhythms and Shizune checked him over.

"You okay?" Shikamaru asked the pale Uchiha.

Sasuke nodded. Gaara was gone and only memories remained. The sleeper had kissed Raine heatedly, groped her and touched her. Couldn't resist taking care of her ne Gaara you godamn slob.

Shizune was satisfied that Gaara had returned to his previous condition. "He's going to be okay. Organ preservation was a success." She looked at Sasuke. "Are you alright? Do you need to be treated?"

"I just need a nap."

Kankuro sat at the kitchen table with the boys and their play dough. Sakura and Temari were in Raine's room with her. Shikamaru went into the kitchen and Sasuke went down the hall to Raine's room to tell her Gaara was alright. He knocked and Temari opened the door. All eyes were on him as he stepped into the girly room. "Gaara's alright. He says he loves you and he's sorry."

Raine had brought her tears under control but hearing Gaara was really gone again made her want to cry more. She went to Sasuke and hugged him. "Thank you for bringing him home to us Sasuke. It was so good to see him."

Sasuke hugged her back trying not to lean on her. "I'm glad to help. I want you and the boys to be happy."

Sakura thought the Uchiha looked exhausted. "Are you alright Sasuke?"

He nodded. "Just tired."

Raine looked up at her protector, her friend. Sasuke looked worn out. "Maybe you should get some rest. I have plenty of help with the boys."

He let her go and Raine stepped back frowning at him concerned. "Are you alright?" he asked her quietly.

Temari stepped up next to mouse. "We'll take care of mouse. She just needs some girl time. You go ahead and have a nap." She shocked everyone giving the Uchiha a hug too. "Thank you for bringing them together today Sasuke."

A little stunned Sasuke nodded and backed out of the girl fest in Raine's room. He went down the hall to the dojo and turned down his bed. Trying not to think anymore Sasuke flopped and in a few minutes he was sound asleep.

Raine had her girl time with Temari and Sakura talking through her frustrated feelings. Feeling a little better she made a big lunch for everyone; Temari helped make sandwiches. After lunch the boys wanted to ride bikes for a while and after that it was swimming and splashing in the kiddie pool. Kankuro and Sakura ducked out first shortly before dinner time, Temari and Shikamaru stayed to help Raine with the boys until they were tucked in for the night. The exhausted Uchiha slept through it all.

It was almost midnight when Sasuke felt a small hand pulling at his shirt. He peeled his eyes open and saw Gabe in his pajamas next to his bed. "Gabe?" Sasuke sat up. "What's the matter buddy?"

"Mommy is crying. I think she is sad daddy had to go back to work."

"Did she wake you up Gabe?" he swung his feet to the floor.

"No, I had to pee."

Sasuke listened trying to force himself awake. He could hear sobbing on the other side of the wall. "Did you use the bathroom buddy?"

"Yes. Mommy is still crying though." Gabe sagged. "I miss daddy too."

He put an arm around his little man and gave him a hug. "Daddy will come for our vacation soon. He just has a little more work to do so he can get the time off."

Gabe crawled up into Sasuke's lap. He was tired and sad and wanted to be babied. "Carry me Sasuke sensei."

Sensei stood up with Gabe in his arms. "Come on buddy, let's get you tucked in." He carried Gabe to his room and sidestepped around some Lego's on the floor. Sasuke tucked him in and kissed his forehead. "Go back to sleep."

"You help mommy?"

I'll try. "Sure I will."

"Love you goodnight." Gabe rolled over and snuggled into his pillow.

It made him smile. "Love you too Gabe." Sasuke got up and crept down the hall to Raine's room. He could hear sniffling through the door he lightly knocked on. "Raine can I come in?" She mumbled something that he thought was yes and Sasuke opened the door. Raine sat in bed surrounded by a dozen or so crumpled tear soaked tissues. She was looking through Gabe's baby book. Crap. "Raine?" Sasuke came in and shut the door behind him. "You alright?"

She wiped her face with a damp tissue and tried to stop blubbering. "I woke you."

"No, Gabe did. He heard you crying when he got up to use the toilet." Sasuke went and sat down at the foot of her bed. "You want to talk?" he offered.

"It's hard," a defiant tear rolled down her cheek and Raine wiped it away.

"I know it is." Sasuke reached over and patted one of her cute little feet. "It won't be like this forever. Things will get better Raine."

Raine closed her firstborn's baby book and set it on the nightstand by the lamp. "The boys really miss him. They were so happy to see him today." She started gathering up the soggy tissues that surrounded her.

"Gaara was glad to see all of you too." He tried not to think about what the slob did in his clone. Sasuke couldn't blame the guy, resisting Raine was hard work, but now the Uchiha was stuck with some rather intimate knowledge.

"Tsunade filed the paperwork this afternoon. Gaara is dead and we're married. Baki's going to have a fit tomorrow morning."

"Maybe we'll get lucky and he'll have a heart attack," Sasuke smiled at her a little.

She smiled a little too. "Wouldn't that be nice?" Raine couldn't help it, she despised the new kazekage.

Sasuke held out his hand offering to take her clump of tissues for her. "Let's toss the snot rags and put on a happy face ne?"

Raine crinkled her nose at the mention of snot. She got up and threw her own tissues away. "Are you feeling better Sasuke?" she asked returning to her bed.

"Yeah I'm fine. Sorry I slept so long."

She sat down next to Sasuke. "I had help with the boys, besides you needed to rest. That's hard stuff, what you did with Gaara ne?"

He shrugged his shoulders wondering how many years he shaved off his life pulling Gaara in and then putting him out again. "Gaara's pretty strong. He wore me out."

"You're both alright though?"

"Yes, we're fine. No need to worry."

"I was worried about you too you know." Raine sighed. "I know you're doing all of this to help Gaara but if something were to happen to you..."

Sasuke took her by the hands. "I'm fine Raine. Nothing is going to happen to me. I'll always be here for you and the boys."

"Is Gabe okay?"

"He went right back to sleep."

She looked down at their hands, at the bridal set of rings on her left hand. She slipped free of Sasuke and touched her rings. "I can't wear these anymore."

Raine slipped the rings off her finger and the Uchiha raised a brow. He wasn't sure if it was a bad or a good thing. He tried Gaara's offer. "I'll get you new rings Raine. You can pick out whatever you want."

Her rings felt warm in the palm of her hand. She wasn't a total jewelry fiend, but "I suppose we should wear some sort of matching wedding bands, for appearances sake. Maybe something in silver."

Matching wedding bands. "Sure if that's what you want." He smiled again. "I'll get you a big diamond too. You can pick out whatever you like."

She laughed a little at the way her friend was offering to spoil her. "That's very generous of you Sasuke."

He was turning her my wife mood around and he grinned at Raine still sort of sleepy. "Got to keep the princess happy."

"I'm not a princess anymore."

"Alright then you're the queen of the Uchiha clan, as small as we are. I've got to spoil you a little."

The Uchiha clan. Now I'm really a part of it. I'm really married to Sasuke. "Sasuke…if something happens to Gaara… we'll stay married?"

He wasn't sure if it was a trick question. "Yes, so I can protect you."

Raine had her girl talk with Temari and Sakura earlier. "I know people get married for a lot of different reasons, but I married Gaara because I love him. Not that I don't love you Sasuke, you're a good guy and all," she smiled and shrugged her shoulders. "I just thought that when Gaara and I … I thought it would be forever."

"You can remarry," Sasuke tried. He wasn't crazy about girly talk like this but he would deal with it to appease his reluctant wife.

"Marriage is… It's supposed to be dresses and bridesmaids and a big reception; not signing legal papers over my husbands dead body."

The Uchiha wasn't quite sure how to respond. "Uh…we can have a wedding if you want." She frowned a little. "Or not."

"Sometimes you're too nice to me Sasuke. Gaara told me not to be such a bitch to you. He told me to listen to you too."

Yay Gaara. "I just want to see you safe and happy that's all."

"We aren't fluff ne?" she looked at him knowingly.

Boo Gaara! You said too much! He was still kind of sleepy and Sasuke chuckled a little. "Nope, we aint fluff Raine. More like a board with nails sticking out of it," he teased and she laughed a little with him.

"Am I that bad?"

Sasuke shrugged his shoulders. "Occasionally."

She knew that sometimes she was rough on her poor friend. "I'm sorry Sasuke. You've done so much for all of us. I don't mean to take my crap out on you; you're just always there for me to unload on."

"It's okay. I know it's been hard for you."

Raine jingled the rings Gaara had ruined for her in her hand. "I'm going to try to be nicer to you. Maybe we can see Yuna together sometimes."

Crap. It sounded troublesome. "Uh, group therapy?"

"No, couples therapy." She sighed. "We live together; raise a family together now we're even legally married. I'm sure we have a lot of stressful issues."

Stressful issues? He tried not to let his aversion show. "If you say so."

"Don't you get upset with me sometimes too?"

"Yeah," sometimes he just wanted to grab her and shake her.

"See, issues."

Sasuke wasn't so sure he wanted any part of 'couple's therapy'. "You really want to do…that. Us and Yuna?"

Her girlfriends agreed dragging Sasuke into her sessions was a good idea. He was stressed too and just wanted to help. "Yes. I think we're kind of dysfunctional. Don't you?" he practically cringed away from her question. "Yuna can help us get along better Sasuke and I think that will help us both relax. Our situation is frustrating; we need some joint coping skills."

Crap. He was in for a world of phsyo babble and expressing feelings. Gaara had asked him to try and make her happy, Sasuke was screwed. "Okay Raine," he surrendered. "If you want us to see Yuna together we'll try it."

"Good." Raine thought it would be a big help.

The guys were all probably going to tease him, call him whipped etc. Sighing a little Sasuke got up and tried to smile. "No more crying tonight. You get some sleep."

Raine nodded. "I made you a plate, it's in the fridge."

"Thanks. Get some sleep." Sasuke hurried out before she tried to sucker him into something else. Therapy. He rolled his eyes and went to the kitchen for a drink and maybe his dinner. I'm gonna be a laughing stalk. Hooray.

Early the next morning Tsunade hokage informed the kazekage of Suna that Raine of the red sands didn't belong to him at all. She was the property of her new husband, Uchiha Sasuke. Baki glared at the woman and stormed out furious. Tsunade and Shizune exchanged a nervous glance. "Shall I have him watched Tsunade sama?"

"Send another ANBU unit over to the Uchiha district, just in case."

Raine Sasuke and Kankuro took the boys to the playground up the street after breakfast. Raine pushed Renji on the swing, Yusuke played on the slide with a little girl in pig tails and Sasuke sensei and Gabe played with all the sand in the sand box. Kankuro sat back watching it all contentedly until Judda dropped down beside him. "Baki and six shinobi are coming this way."

Kankuro got to his feet. "Guess he heard he don't own mouse. Oi Uchiha!" he waved him over.

Sasuke stood up and brushed the sand off the seat of his pants. He went to Kankuro, Judda was beside him. "What?"

Judda turned and saw the kazekage's party coming down the street. "Here they come."

His eyes followed his ANBU guard and Sasuke saw them. "Shit."

"Perhaps we should get Raine and the children out of here," Judda suggested as Hiei appeared behind the former princess.

"Only a fool would start a fight here," Kankuro frowned. "He can bitch and then leave." The ninja straightened as the new kage came his way. Kankuro stepped closer to the street to keep the Sand shinobi out of the playground and away from his nephews. "Baki sensei," he greeted.

Baki glared at the ninja that had left his services. "I see you've settled right into Konoha Kankuro. Are you joining the Uchiha clan too?" he hissed. Behind Kankuro was that damn Uchiha Sasuke. "You little bastard."

"Take it easy sensei. There are children present," Kankuro puffed up.

Sasuke stepped up beside Kankuro. "We don't want any trouble here."

"She's only your wife as long as you're alive Uchiha."

"I have no intention of dieing anytime soon," he returned Baki's icy glare.

"You can't keep her from me. I'm the kazekage now."

"I don't care who you are, leave her alone."

Baki was furious. He was the kazekage and he should get his way. "I could tell my men to kill you right now."

"They could try, but they'd all end up dead." He brought out his Sharingan to let the big bastard know he meant business.

Kankuro was getting pissed. Mouse had looked their way and now she was scared. "No godamn fighting in front of my nephews."

"You mean your nephews and the bastard Uchiha child; or is he no longer a bastard now that his father has stepped up and married the whore?" Baki dug.

"Sensei!" Kankuro took a threatening step closer. "I won't stand for that kind of talk!"

He debated fighting it out right here and now; but a street fight might make things worse between Suna and Konoha and the Uchiha was dangerous. Baki looked from Kankuro's angry face to the Uchiha. "Hurry up and die. I want my property back. I want to have a little fun with her before I sell her to Orochimaru."

For a moment Sasuke's heart didn't beat. What!

Kankuro got between Baki and Sasuke before the Uchiha decided to attack. "If Gaara was here he'd rip off your head and shit down your neck!" Kankuro exploded. "You aint getting mouse so just get the fuck lost!"

Sasuke grabbed Kankuro's shoulder and pulled him away from the kazekage. "You've talked to Orochimaru?"

Baki laughed. "That's for me to know and your little wife to find out isn't it."

"Sand and Sound are enemies," Kankuro was beside himself with rage.

"How would you know Kankuro? You don't serve Sand anymore." Satisfied he had rattled a few cages Baki backed off. "Don't wear her out on me Uchiha. The grown ups want some candy too."

The group of Sand shinobi turned and started off. Sasuke was seething, breathing hard through his clenched teeth. "That son of a…"

"Perverted old man," Kankuro growled at his former sensei's back. "He's opened up some kind of negotiation with Sound, with Orochimaru? Is he fucking nuts!"

"He's the kazekage," the words fell like poison from his lips. Sasuke felt something touch his shoulder and he whipped around fast startling Raine with the fierce look on his face.

Raine looked from Sasuke to Kankuro. Both of them looked really pissed. "What happened? What did he say?"

Sasuke tried to stow his anger. "Nothing, just talking shit."

"Don't worry about it mouse," Kankuro inhaled deeply to calm himself. That motherfucker. Power has gone straight to his head. "Baki's on an ego trip."

"Are you guys okay?"

The Uchiha nodded. "Sure. Go back to Renji."

"Should we go home?"

Kankuro took the cue from Sasuke. "Naw, go play with the kids. They're having fun."

She smiled a little. "I think Yusuke's made a little girlfriend. Her name is Tifa, isn't she cute?" Raine turned and went back to push Renji's swing some more.

Sasuke looked at his little one. He was waiting for the pig tailed girl at the bottom of the slide. He called Yusuke a bastard. It's not true. My son….

"Oi," Kankuro tapped Sasuke and brought him out of his daze. "Don't let his shit get to you. After we get the boys home I'm gonna go talk to Tsunade. I want her to know he mentioned Orochimaru."

"Right." Sasuke nodded and swallowed his emotions. After he collected himself he returned to his adorable student in the sand box.

Shikamaru and Temari watched the boys; Sasuke took Raine to her session with Yuna and got dragged into it. He sat on the crinkly leather couch next to Raine wishing he wasn't here. He sat quietly as Yuna explained how having a mediator would help the two of them understand each other better and make things more pleasant on the home front. "Alright then, who wants to go first? What are your biggest issues?"

Raine jumped in. "Well, you know how I feel about all of this crap with Gaara and Suna. It's aggravating."

"Mmmhmm," Yuna nodded. "Do you understand how Raine feels about her situation Sasuke?" she thought he did.

Crap. "I know she doesn't like it."

"And how does that make you feel?"

"Uh…" crap this blows. "I feel bad for Raine. I want to help."

Yuna smiled. "Raine has been feeling displaced and abandoned."

"Nobody abandon her."

"Gaara has, not that he can help it. Separation anxiety can often lead to feelings of abandonment. Moving to Konoha was also a big stressor. Coming from the desert to a very green place has been a big adjustment for Raine."

"My feet still get cold every night," Raine sighed.

Sasuke was starting to feel like he was in the hot seat. "I can get you some warm socks."

Raine waved a hand at Sasuke but spoke to Yuna. "See?"

The counselor nodded and Sasuke bounced his gaze between the women. "See what?"

"You're very accommodating to Raine Sasuke," Yuna informed.

What the hell. "That's what I'm supposed to do isn't it?"

"A healthy relationship is about compromises Sasuke, not just giving in to every little whim your partner has."

Partner! "We're rich; she can have whatever she wants."

Raine shook her head and Yuna explained, "You can't expect material things to make her happy."

"She likes shopping," Sasuke tried to defend himself a little.

"Okay Sasuke, which do you think Raine would like more; shopping or sitting down at the table with you and planning a day out with the boys?"

"The first one."

Yuna smiled. She did indeed have her work cut out with these two. "And which do you think is better for her?"

He shrugged his shoulders and kept his mouth shut. Shit, I don't want to get in trouble!

"It's alright to express your ideas and feelings here Sasuke. This is a neutral place."

Oh for the love of… He sighed. "What do you want me to express ne? It sucks for her and I'm sorry but what the hell can I do about it?"

"You're here so we can figure that out. Raine is moody a lot, detached antisocial and sometimes angry."

Sing it sister. "Yeah, sometimes."

"She takes things out on you, calls you a jerk right?"

Uh oh. "Sometimes."

"How does that make you feel?"

"Uhh…" Raine was looking at him, studying him. "Not so good?"

Yuna turned to Raine. "How do you feel about taking out your frustration on Sasuke?"

"I feel like a turd afterwards," Raine admitted. "I don't like to hurt Sasuke's feelings or make him mad. He's a very good friend and sometimes I feel like I'm abusing our friendship."

Yuna turned back to Sasuke. He was looking at Raine kind of funny. "What do you think about that Sasuke?"

"I know she don't mean nothing by it, she's just stressed out."

"You let Raine take advantage of you?"

"No, it aint like that. I'm just there for her."

Raine interjected, "He offered to give me a wedding last night."

She acknowledged Raine and asked Sasuke, "Why did you do that?"

Defiantly in the hot seat. "Raine likes that kind of stuff."

"What kind of stuff?"

"Girly uh, feminine things. Weddings are all about the flowers and dresses and crap."

"So you offered her a wedding so she could feel more feminine?"

Sasuke was starting to get confused. "I just wanted to make her happy."

"Would a wedding make you happy?"

What's with the third degree doc? Sasuke frowned. "If I say no I'm an unfeeling bastard but if I say yes I'm a shmuck trying to get in her pants right?"

"There's no right or wrong answer here Sasuke," Yuna folded her hands on her knee. "Is there a lot of sexual tension in your relationship?"

That's it. Sasuke snapped his mouth shut and folded his arms across his chest.

Raine fielded the question. "I think sometimes there is." Sasuke looked at her wide eyed, his face was turning red. Raine shrugged her shoulders.

"Can you explaine it to me Raine?" Yuna asked ignoring Sasuke's embarrassment for the moment. "Tell me what you feel."

"Well Sasuke's not ugly or anything. He's a really nice guy and he's always around."

"So he has qualities that are appealing to you?"

"Sure he does."

The Uchiha's mouth fell open and the counselor turned on him. "Is Raine appealing to you Sasuke?"

He looked from Raine to Yuna trying to figure out how to cover his ass. "We're good friends." The Uchiha started to sweat.

"Do you think sexual tension is a problem in your relationship?"

"No," he answered for both of them at once.

"You seem uncomfortable Sasuke," the counselor started to analyze him.

They were both staring at him, picking him apart in their minds making him feel uncomfortable. "We don't have sex problems."

"Because you don't have sex?" The Uchiha's posture was defensive.

"No we don't have sex!"

"Does that upset you?"

"What the hell kind of a question is that!"

Yuna relaxed to make her clients feel more at ease. "It's alright Sasuke; I'm just trying to get us all in touch with our feelings. Take a deep breath in through your nose and out through your mouth." She demonstrated and turned to Raine to give Sasuke a moment to calm down. "How do you feel about Sasuke's reaction?"

Raine looked at her irritated friend and then back to Yuna. "Sasuke is private about a lot of stuff."

"So it doesn't surprise you?"

She peeked at Sasuke again. "Not really."

Yuna looked back at the Uchiha. "People tend to keep their sexual feelings to themselves outside of a comfortable relationship with a mate but they are always there. Part of Raine's fluxuating mood comes from being sexually frustrated. She and Gaara had a very physical relationship. Its natural and its normal for her to miss that."

Why the hell am I still sitting here? "Yeah okay." Sasuke shifted in his seat. Just agree with her and don't answer any questions.

"I do," Raine pouted and plucked a tissue from the box on the table in front of her. "Not just the sex, but Gaara was always right there holding my hand or with an arm around me. We were close."

She left the Uchiha alone for a minute but observed the way he watched Raine. "Tell me how you're feeling right now Raine."

"All alone." She burst into tears and hid her face behind her tissue.

"Oi Raine," Sasuke straightened. He hadn't expected her to start bawling. The counselor gestured he move his ass to take care of her and Sasuke scooted closer to Raine. "Oi, you aren't alone. You have family and friends."

Yuna made a circle with her arms and nodded at Sasuke. "Hugs have healing power."

He resisted the urge to roll his eyes at her and hugged Raine to him. She hugged him back and sobbed against his shoulder. "It's okay Raine."

"I'd like to try an exercise. I would like the two of you to take turns saying something nice about each other until Raine has calmed down. Sasuke would you go first?"

I never should have agreed to this shit. "You make best salsa I've ever had."

"You're smarter then me. You figured out how to put together that thing for Gabe I couldn't get!" she sobbed.

"It was complicated to get the wing on right."

"But you got it on there."

"Because I saw how you were doing it wrong." That didn't help at all, Raine just cried harder and Sasuke grit his teeth.

Oh the dysfunction. "Sasuke you saw Raine doing something wrong. What did you do?"

"It was just a toy, when she couldn't get it I figured it out for her. It's not a big deal."

"So instead of telling her how to fix the problem you just fixed it for her?"

"No," Sasuke frowned. "She was getting pissed about it so I kept my mouth shut."

Yuna leaned forward. "Why?"

"Because I didn't want her to bite my fuckin head off okay?"

Raine looked up at Sasuke and yelled at him through her tears. "I wouldn't have yelled at you jerk!"

"You'd say I was calling you stupid and it would give you a reason to be a bitch all night!"

"Okay, okay," Yuna put her hands up. Sasuke had just as many issues as Raine did but the poor guy was still hugging the weepy woman. "Calling each other jerk and bitch isn't helping. Raine, why do you call Sasuke a jerk?"

"Because he's Mr. know it all fix it all! He's in charge of everything!"

He looked surprised by her outburst. "Sasuke, why do you call Raine a bitch?"

Neutral territory ne? "Because no matter what I do to make her happy it never lasts for more then five godamn minutes!"

"Okay," Yuna soothed. "You both sound angry, resentful. Let the hugs heal and listen to me." Her patients resumed a not so hostile embrace. "You were both thrust into a very awkward situation without any warning. Sasuke assumed control in Gaara's absence to take care of the family. Raine feels as though she has lost all control. It puts a great deal of stress on you both and you're stressing off of each other."

Sasuke sighed and rolled his eyes. "We're in this limbo until Gaara recovers."

"So you intend to be miserable until then? Roll over and wait for Gaara to get up?" Yuna clasped her hands together. "You need to learn to communicate with each other better; not yelling or hiding or name calling. You need to express your feelings in a positive healthy manner. You need to learn how to talk as well as how to listen. Things will go much smoother for you if you do."

"I don't want to fight," Raine sniffled.

For some reason Sasuke felt like the bad guy here. "We don't fight. You yell, I sulk and then you go to your room."

"Let's break that cycle," Yuna suggested with a nod. "Raine, look at Sasuke." Sniffling she did. "I want you to think of a nice nickname for him, the first thing that comes into your mind."

Raine dabbed at her eyes with a tissue. "Sugar daddy."

Sasuke blinked at her and used some chakra to keep the blood from rushing to his face. "I'm not an old man."

"No, but you gave me three million dollars. Its nicer then whore master isn't it?"

Yuna interceded. "Okay Raine, lets shorten that a little bit and make it more personal. Sugar or just shug, which do you prefer?"

She thought shug sounded kind of cute. "Shug."

"Alright then shug it is. Sasuke, I would like you to come up with a name for Raine."

Raine's eyes were boring holes in his head. He felt a bead of sweat run down his back. Oh man this is bullshit! "Uh… I'm not good at picking names, that's Yusuke's department." I'm screwed. I'm a sap in therapy and now I'm a shug. What the fuck…

"Would it help if I explained to you why Raine called you sugar daddy?"

Duh. "I gave her three million bucks."

"Yes but 'daddy' is also indicative of protection and security. In her own way she acknowledges, appreciates and desires your protection."

Okay then… "No, that doesn't help me at all."

Yuna smiled. "Just look at Raine and use your best judgment."

I'm going to get myself killed. This is so not helping. Sasuke took a deep breath and looked at Raine. Okay think. Sasuke stared and Raine looked at him curiously. Even though she called ME daddy I'll get slapped if I call her baby.

The counselor stayed positive. "Well Sasuke what do you think?"

"Yes Sasuke what do you think?" In this healing hug Raine could pinch him if she needed to.

I think the bell tolls for me. "I'm hung up on the daddy thing."

"What do you mean," Yuna leaned forward again.

"Daddy, baby; see the analogy. I can't go around calling her baby though."

"Then let's shorten that. Babe or babs perhaps?"

Sasuke frowned a little at Yuna. "I aint calling her babs. That's a bunny name."

"Babe it is," Yuna smiled and went on. "Now these names that you have given to each other are the names that I want you to use when you're upset with each other. It will remind you that you're connected. I want you to test it out. While in our healing hug say something nice about the other person using their pet name."

Raine was willing to try all of Yuna's exercises. Mostly they worked. She took a deep breath and went first. "Shug has really done a good job with Gabe." That wasn't so hard. Shug sounded way cuter then Sasuke.

It was stupid, but Sasuke smiled a little. "Babe makes great meatballs."

"Good, Yuna beamed. She saw a breakthrough coming. These poor kids. "Keep going. Tell the other person something you like about them."

She studied Sasuke. "You have nice hair."

"You have cute feet," he said with a grin and she smiled.

Yes! "Now name a fun activity you'd like to do with the other person."

"Go for a walk in the flower gardens," Raine was ready to be accepting. She didn't want to be miserable anymore.

Have hot wild sex. Sasuke cleared his throat. "Have a quiet dinner in a nice restaurant." His beloved's smile broadened and he returned it.

"Wonderful, we're making progress already." Her patients were smart and ready to be helped. "Between now and the time we meet next week I would like for the two of you to combine those activities. Plan a date where you'll go for a walk and then have dinner."

"Oi oi oi," Sasuke broke the healing hug and put up a hand. "Date next week what?"

"Does the word date make you uncomfortable Sasuke? Do you prefer appointment or meeting instead?"

He scowled a little. "I'm not uncomfortable. I'm a ninja. I thought you were going to try to help us get along not hook us up." He felt Raine pinch his side and he flinched. "Oww!"

Yuna clapped her hands together once and frowned at Raine. "We don't express ourselves violently in here Raine. Why did you hurt Sasuke?"

She was beginning to blush. "He's embarrassing me."

"What did I do?" Sasuke quipped.

"Yuna is a professional counselor not some dating service you idiot."

"She's the one who said date!"

My they are touchy. "My fault," Yuna offered. "Let's call your grown up alone time something else then."

"Grown up alone time?" Sasuke frowned at the shrink.

"I think it would do you and Raine both a lot of good to get out of the house much more often. You're chained to these roles of mother and protector and you aren't taking enough time to just be yourselves. You're both so wrapped up in what's going on around you that you are losing track of what's inside of you, understand?"

Raine sighed and gave up on the healing hug. She leaned back into the couch. "I understand."

"You're the one that never wants to go anywhere," Sasuke complained in his defense.

"Why, because I don't wanna get drunk over at Kankuro's?" She rolled her eyes.

"Yeah, shit like that," Sasuke frowned at her a little.

"Maybe something like that isn't fun for Raine," Yuna tried.

Sasuke shrugged. "She drinks beer."

Raine sighed loudly. "Well maybe I'm past the frat boy parties ne?"

The Uchiha rolled his eyes and Yuna put up one finger. "Focus, lets get back on track here you guys. These are the things I want you to think about and I want you to do."

After the longest most uncomfortable hour of his life Sasuke and Raine finally left Yuna. Raine seemed positive, almost chipper as they headed home. "Don't you feel better Sasuke?" she smiled at him.

"Yeah sure." He would rather fight Orochimaru then see Yuna again, but next Tuesday his ass was on the grill again.

"Wanna try meditating together after we get the boys in bed tonight?"

Doomed…. "Sure why not."

As he expected Kankuro and Shikamaru both teased Sasuke a little about his therapy with Raine. Kankuro told him he was turning into a girly boy; Shikamaru told him he was pussy whipped without the benefit of getting the pussy and they had a good laugh at Sasuke's expense. Sasuke wanted to beat the shit out of both of them. "I'm doing it for Raine," he grumbled and went to help with dinner.

A few nights later Temari and a grinning Shikamaru arrived an hour or so before dinner. They were going to sit with the boys while Sasuke took Raine for a walk and the two of them had a quiet dinner without the boys. Sasuke stood in the kitchen in his Sunday best; all black and long sleeved with the couple while Raine got ready and Gabe entertained his brothers with some Mario cart.

"Pizzas will be here in about a half an hour. We'll walk the memorial garden and then we're going to Rick's. We won't be gone long."

Bullshit. Temari smiled. She loved Rick's. The piano player could really sing. "Tell Sam to play As Time Goes By. It's awesome." Raine appeared in the doorway, she was wearing the dress she bought on their last shopping spree. "Oh I love that!"

Sasuke saw Shikamaru's eyebrows go up and he looked over his shoulder at Raine. Whoa… She wore a beautiful flowing white dress that stopped at the knee. Her hair was pulled back and left to hang long in the back. Raine was wearing make up for the first time in months and even shoes with a slight heel. She's beautiful.

Raine smiled at Temari. "I wasn't entirely sure about it in the store but I do like it."

Sasuke straightened. "You look nice."

She smiled at him next. "Thank you Sasuke. You look nice too."

Shikamaru snickered at their niceties. "Go on you two, try and relax a little."

He looked at Shikamaru once more. I'm gonna get ragged on about this for a week. He followed Raine into the living room. She kissed her boys goodbye telling them she and Sasuke had a meeting. "Be good for auntie Temari," Sasuke reminded them and followed her out.

Raine took in a deep breath of fresh Konoha air. "I'll bet the gardens are beautiful in this light. I love the warmth of the light of late afternoon don't you?"

Actually he did. He smiled at having more in common with her then he thought. "Yeah. It's kind of relaxing."

She thought so too. "Are you nervous Sasuke?"

He looked at her sidelong. "About what?"

"Being out like this, just us."

This wasn't all that much different then grocery shopping. "No."

"I am," she admitted. "People are going to stare at us."

"People always stare at us."

She shrugged a little. "Doesn't that bother you? People talking shit about you behind your back, judging you and making assumptions?"

"People are gonna talk shit no matter what you do Raine. Learn to ignore it."

"Is that what tough ninja do?" she grumbled.

"Its better then letting catty gossip drive you bug shit ne?"

Yuna had suggested that they take every opportunity to try and see things from the others perspective. "Just blow them off?" she pondered aloud.

"Exactly." He smiled and nodded.

"I suppose I could try that."

Please do. "I was thinking maybe on the way to Rick's we could stop by York's and pick up a little bling." Yuna had told them that the wedding bands that they would wear could serve as a symbol of their friendship and a reminder to each of them that they were stuck in the shit together. "Your hand looks naked with no rings."

"It feels naked. Stupid Gaara ruin my damn rings. I loved that set!"

"He'll get you a new one."

"So, that doesn't make up for him taking away what I already had." She pouted a little and Sasuke looked at her kind of funny.

Sasuke thought he could understand. "No one would have ever thought that you would have to leave Gaara."

"I didn't leave him he left me. He's the one who decided to play dead and marry me off to you."

"To protect you."

Raine shook her head. "He didn't even give me a say about me and you or the boys. When I didn't cave in everyone yelled at me until I did."

"I'm sorry about that Raine; we were all on the same mission is all."

"To protect and serve ne?"

"I do come from a long line of cops ya know."

She was curious about this clan she had come into, Yusuke's ancestors. "Tell me about the Uchiha." Sasuke did.

The walk through the memorial gardens was pleasant each naming off the flora they recognized. Sasuke had always thought flowers were girly but it was kind of fun. A walk in the fresh air felt good and then they went to the jewelry store. It took her over a half an hour to pick out what she wanted but finally she decided on solid silver bands and a modest diamond ring. They put them on and went to have dinner.

Raine loved Rick's. Sam played the piano in the corner and the proprietor, Rick, greeted many of his customers personally. He dropped by their table when Sasuke was still finishing his dinner.

"Princess, Mr. Uchiha." Rick directed his attention to Raine. "Sorry to hear about your sweetheart kid that's a tough break, but your young and you've got your whole life ahead of you. I'm sure a cute dame like you will have no trouble reeling in another husband."

Sasuke dabbed at his mouth with a napkin and informed the old smoothie, "She already has. I married her."

Rick lifted his eyebrows at the Uchiha. "Sure didn't waste any time didja?" he extended a hand to the Uchiha and they shook. "Congratulations you crazy kids. I'll get you some champagne to celebrate." Rick ducked away from the awkward moment.

Raine's cheeks were pink; she was just a little embarrassed. "You didn't have to say it like that. I didn't even have the chance to explaine."

"You don't have to explaine anything to anybody. Blow em off remember?"

"Rick is a nice man."

"He's got an eye for cute dames. Ol' Rick probably wishes he was having dinner with you instead of me."

She smiled at the funny look Sasuke was giving her. "That's terrible."

He shrugged his shoulders and finished his baked potato. A waiter brought over their complementary champagne and they had a few glasses to be polite. The bubbles in the booze went straight to her head and Sasuke walked his giggling wife home. Overall it wasn't a bad way to spend an evening. There was no fighting yelling or bitching. Their conversation was pleasant and Sasuke's steak had been tasty.

When they got home bath time had just ended and her clean smelling boys were watching cartoons with their aunt and uncle. Raine kissed her babies and went to change into her normal clothes. Sasuke and Shikamaru went into the kitchen and had a beer together. "How was it?" Shikamaru was dieing to know.

"Good food," Sasuke sipped his beer.

"Did you guys get along alright?"

"Yeah, we didn't argue at all."

Shikamaru grinned. "So your little therapy date worked out okay ne?"

"It wasn't a date," Sasuke scoffed. "It was grown up alone time."

The ninja laughed at his poor sucker of a friend. "If you say so Sasuke."

Sasuke had told Raine that they were in the worst of it and things would only get better from here on. He was right about that and Rock Lee returned to Konoha with proof. It was mid afternoon when his team returned to the village. Lee went straight for the old Uchiha section of town; he had something for Raine and Sasuke. They were outside in front of the house watching the boys ride their bikes back and forth to Temari's. Lee went to the parents he had news for. "Raine, Sasuke," Lee pulled the drawing from his pouch and handed it to Raine.

She unfolded the paper and her heart stopped. It was a t rex drawn in crayon, Saichi had autographed his drawing. "Saichi!"

"We found it in one of the abandoned Sound compounds in the northern part of rice country," Lee explained. "There were signs Saichi had been there recently. We can't be that far away from finding him."

Sasuke stared at Saichi's picture in Raine's shaking hand. His heart beat double time in his chest. "Raine do you know what this means?"

She looked at Sasuke with happy tears in her eyes. "They'll find him!"

He smiled at her. "Not just find him. If he's coloring pictures Orochimaru must be giving him the things that you did. He's being treated right. Saichi is alright!"

Sasuke was right and Raine got even more excited. "Yes!" She looked at Lee. "Oh thank you Lee!" Raine gave him a big hug and a kiss right on the lips.

Lee's cheeks turned red. "You're welcome Raine."

She turned to Sasuke and hugged him next. The Uchiha was just as happy as she was. Sasuke picked her up off her feet and spun them around laughing with her. "See Raine, it's going to be alright!"

Saichi's drawing went up on the fridge and their boy was the next topic of conversation when they met with Yuna. The counselor was glad that the young couple had finally caught some kind of a break. Shinobi were still searching for their lost baby and the old mystic that may be able to help Gaara. Yuna reassured them that things would indeed keep getting better for them, this was only the beginning. It was a therapy session Sasuke didn't mind in the slightest.

Naruto came home from his mission hungry. It was almost dinner time so he dropped by on Sasuke knowing Raine would feed him a hot meal; of course she did. Her pot roast was divine and after Naruto stuffed himself he enjoyed the big screen TV while Sasuke and Raine got their squealing little boys cleaned up. Eventually Raine took over so Sasuke could go sit and visit with his friend for a while.

The Uchiha flopped on the couch next to his former team mate. "How's it going?"

"Ero sannin is looking for that Kikyo witch too. Give him some time, he'll find her. He found Tsunade when he needed too."

"That took months."

"It probably will take months," Naruto shrugged. "That's not a problem is it?"

Sasuke sighed. "I guess not. It's not like I can do anything about it anyway."

"How's genie doing?" he smiled a little. He knew she had been rough on poor Sasuke for a while.

"A lot better I think. She's more accepting of her situation and finding a trace of Saichi made her really happy." Sasuke smiled too. "Wanna have a drink?"

"Yeah sure." Naruto followed Sasuke into the kitchen. The Uchiha took some sake and a couple of cups from the cupboard and joined Naruto at the table. Naruto noticed the ring on Sasuke's left hand. "You guys are wearing wedding rings ne?"

Sasuke poured the sake. "Raine wanted to keep up appearances. She wouldn't wear the ones Gaara gave her anymore. She said they were ruined." He shook his head a little and pushed Naruto's drink to him. Sasuke sipped his sake.

"She's still mad at Gaara?"

"Better him then me. At least he can sleep through the pissy."

Naruto chuckled. "You guys getting along okay?"

"Yeah fine. Yuna's got us doing all this stuff. Talking, meditating, and going out once a week without the kids. It seems to be helping. Raine's a lot more relaxed."

"We should all hit the club," Naruto teased and sipped his sake. "Go trolling for chicks."

Sasuke rolled his eyes. "I'm not into trolling and I don't need a chick. One woman is enough to deal with."

He studied his friend over his cup. "You're still hung up on her."

"Doesn't matter." He sipped his booze. "I like the relationship we have now."

Gabe went running by in his pajamas on his way to the living room for cartoon time. "One Piece! Luffy!"

Naruto chuckled. "How's Gabe's training going?"

"Excellent, his chakra control has improved in leaps and bounds." Sasuke puffed up a little. He was quite proud of his adorable student.

Renji and Yusuke screamed by in a blur. "Does he train with clones?"

"No not yet."

"Why not? Can't he make one?"

"He has."

Naruto sipped his sake. "Clones are the easiest cheat there is. Everything your clone does comes back to you. Double the training."

Raine was following her boys to the living room when she heard what Naruto said. She lifted a brow and stepped into the kitchen. "What did you just say?"

"If Gabe trains with a clone he'll get twice the training," Naruto smiled at his pretty genie friend. "All the knowledge and experience your clone has comes back into you once that clone is dispersed. It is you anyway after all. It's twice the amount of training."

Sasuke saw Raine's mouth fall open. Oh shit. "One Piece is coming on isn't it?" he tried to change the subject quickly, but it was too late.

Gaara was in Sasuke's clone when… Raine gasped. "Sasuke! You…Gaara… when he was here…!"

The Uchiha played dumb and tried to look confused. "What's wrong?"

"Gaara was in your clone; that's how it works right?"

Damn you Naruto and your big mouth. Sasuke nodded and sipped his drink. "I let Gaara have control of my clone."

Naruto chuckled. "What's the matter genie? Was Gaara a slob in Sasuke's clone?" his laughter died on his lips when he looked up and saw the look on genies face. Holy shit he was! He looked at Sasuke; his friend was frowning and looked uncomfortable. "Uhh…"

"Are you saying that wasn't Gaara?" Raine was floored.

"Of course it was Gaara." Sasuke wondered how the hell he was going to smooth this over. Damnit Gaara!

"But it was you too is that it?"

Shit godamn hell fuck! "No. I wasn't aware of what Gaara was doing."

"What about after the clone went away?" She had wanted the comfort of her husband and Gaara kissed her, touched her.

"I just absorbed the information," Sasuke made it sound as impersonal as he could and sipped his drink.

Naruto was watching Sasuke with his mouth agape. "Holy shit did you guys fuck!"

"No!" Sasuke snapped at once.

Raine straightened. She went from mortified to furious in under three seconds. "Gaara touched me with your hands!" She pointed at the Uchiha. "Fuck you both!"

"Raine," Sasuke got to his feet but she ran away from him. A second later he heard her bedroom door slam shut. He sighed aggravated and frowned at Naruto. "Thanks a lot."

Naruto blinked. "How the hell was I supposed to know what Gaara the slob did ne?"

"Fuckin Gaara," Sasuke was pissed. If Gaara had just left Raine alone the Uchiha wouldn't be getting screamed at now. "Go watch TV with the boys. I'll go see if I can settle the shrew."

He recoiled and Sasuke stormed out. "Oh shit."

Sasuke didn't bother to knock; he just walked right in and closed the door behind him. Raine was throwing stuff off her dresser. "Raine I want to talk to you."

She chucked a bottle of perfume at the Uchiha. "Get out!"

He caught the bottle and tossed it on her bed. "You can't be mad at me for this. It wasn't my fault! I didn't give Gaara a body so he could get freaky with you!"

"Gaara knew that you would know and he did it anyway!"

"He loves you," Sasuke braved a step closer. "He couldn't resist you. He apologized to me and he didn't think you'd ever know."

Raine shook her head. "I am so sick of you godamn ninja bastards keeping shit from me! Gaara lies and you swear to it!"

"What the hell do you want me to do about it ne? Apologize? I didn't do anything. I was trying to do everyone a favor putting Gaara in a body so he could hug you and the kids!"

"Gaara did more then just hug me," she growled.

Sasuke was losing his patience. He didn't want to have to take the fall for this shit. "Yeah I know."

"Did you like it Sasuke?" she nearly hissed.

"You did," he snapped back. "Getting off did wonders for your attitude!"

Raine took two quick steps forward and her hand flew through the air. "Why you!"

Sasuke caught her hand before she could slap him in the face. She counter attacked kicking him in the shin and trying to whack him with her other hand. "Stop this foolishness right now!"

"Screw you!" she struggled against the Uchiha as the first angry tears blurred her vision. "I hate you! I hate both of you! You can go to hell together!"

She kicked the same spot on his shin three times consecutively and Sasuke had enough. He was gentle with her but he body slammed her onto her bed just the same. She fought him the whole way and Sasuke flopped on top of her and restrained her. "Calm down."

"Get the fuck off of me!" Raine wiggled. "How dare you attack me! Who the hell do you think you are you big jerk!"

"You attacked me. I'm defending myself."

Hot tears streamed down her face. "You're a fucking hooker and Gaara is your pimp!"

It was the craziest thing he ever heard her say and despite his anger Sasuke laughed in her face. "Oh that's real good Raine. I'm a hooker ne?"

She didn't find this funny at all. "You're Gaara's whore!"

"I am Gaara's friend and his shinobi."

All of the fighting was draining her strength. She tried once more to throw Sasuke off and then gave up. Raine cried harder and squeezed her eyes shut. "I hate you."

"No you don't. You're just mad. I was mad at Gaara too."

"I am mad!" she sobbed. "I'm damn mad!"

"I can see that babe," he tried Yuna's ideas. "Do you want to talk about it?"

Raine blinked up at Sasuke. "You're pissed?"

Sasuke shrugged. "Well, Gaara did kind of take advantage of my clone."

"See, hooker!"

"I'm not a hooker. Gaara didn't pay me off."

"Sure he did, he gave you me." She frowned at her second husband as the tears fell.

Shit. "Gaara didn't give you to me Raine."

She sniffled and tried to stop crying. Anger tightened her stomach into a sour little ball. "We're married. Gaara kissed me and touched me when he was a part of you. It's like saying here she is Sasuke enjoy!"

"That's not true; besides I would never do something like what he did. I can control myself." Can and do. Lying on top of her wasn't all bad it was just the circumstances that sucked.

Gaara you asshole! "So what, Gaara's a slob and your not?"

"Yeah, he's the whore not me." Sasuke smiled at her hoping a little teasing would lighten her mood.

She wasn't going to let the Uchiha off that easily. "Getting off did wonders for my attitude ne?"

Oops. "I just meant that… seeing Gaara was good for you."

Raine let her body go limp and she stared up at the ceiling. "I was so happy to see him." She sighed. "Now I want to kick the crap out of him."

Me too. "I'll hold him and you can hit him." He thought she was calmer and he loosened his hold. "Maybe we should talk this over with Yuna."

"You bet we will."

Sasuke let her go and sat up. He gave her a minute more to collect herself and then, "You okay? Wanna go watch One Piece?"

She didn't really want to move and she was far from okay. "Let me wash my face first. I don't want the boys to see me a mess."

While the Uchiha was dealing with his foul tempered shrew Baki was throwing fits of his own. He had lost all three of Gaara's children to Tsunade hokage. The whore of the red sands had let the sannin adopt them days before she married Uchiha Sasuke. The kazekage couldn't have any of them hauled back to Sand. He was furious.

"Konoha is keeping our treasures locked away from us," Orochimaru leaned closer to the new kazekage fixing his yellow eyes on Baki. "Tsunade is laughing at you behind your back."

"That bitch," Baki growled.

"Perhaps its time to make her stop laughing and take what we want from Konoha by any means necessary." The sannin smiled. He was sure to get his way. Soon he would have all he desired; his special containers, his young future shinobi and his great revenge against Konoha and that bitch of a hokage. It's over Tsunade.