Disclaimer: No, yet again, sadly I don't own Naruto. . If I did...haha, let's not go there.
A/N: Hi :) Glad to know someone liked my incredibly short Prologue! Okay so, this fanfic is based on a Naruto/Sakura/Sasuke love triangle! And, note! The flashbacks are in italics; if you get confused now, don't worry. You'll understand later on. Also, I'm sorry I didn't tab these paragraphs, I tried 500 times and it never saved! I got too frustrated so I'll try and figure it out by chapter 2! For now, bear with the double spacing seperating everything. Enjoy! Ja!
Silent Tears
Chapter 1: A New Mission
--
Morning dawned; the sun draped itself amid the serene village of Konoha, permitting no shadows in it's wake. Subliminal dreams were rudely disrupted as light penetrated the homes of many villagers, rousing them from the warmth of their beds. Located somewhat in the middle of the village stood a rather large house; the only occupant being a male ninja.
"Kuso….I hate mornings," muttered a very annoyed raven-haired boy; cursing at the sun under his breath. It was probably as early as six o' clock, judging by the angle of light blinding his vision. It was always like this, he thought bitterly. Every day the light would blind him and he'd have to get out of bed so he could still see when he got up. Oh well, at least it's better than waking up to his stupid alarm clock. "Why do I bother setting it again….? Oh right, incase I don't wake up." Sasuke snorted at himself; as if that would ever happen. He shed himself of the navy blue comforter and flung his legs to the side, dangling them childishly. This was his daily routine every morning; ever since the day he came back.
--
"Sasuke….?" The blonde boy gawked at him, hardly believing his own eyesight.
"Yeah….nice to see you too, dobe."
"Sasuke-kun!" A familiar female voice cried, hastily running towards him. "A-are you….w-when did you….Oh Sasuke-kun!" She flung her arms around him, ignoring the state he was in. He winced in pain, the pressure immense against his thrashed body. This was how they greeted him? What the hell? Weren't they mad?
"Sasuke-teme….WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU!" Ah, there was the anger; Sasuke smirked.
"What? I can't come back?" He sneered, mocking Naruto's expression; anger, relief, and pure frustration. He was unaware of Sakura's quiet sobs emanating below him; staining his shirt with fresh tears.
"YOU'RE A BASTARD!" Yeah that about summed it up, Naruto decided. Although, he wasn't really in the mood to insult his friend; tears were clawing at the back of his eyes too. Sasuke noticed this and lowered his head in shame, allowing his bangs to obscure his vision. It had been three, long, aggravating years…and finally, he came home.
"I know….Naruto…."
--
"Whatever. That was a month ago and they still don't know why I came back…" Sasuke stood up leisurely, disregarding his earlier annoyance; the morning. It's not so bad, he reasoned, it's better than having those horrid dreams. I have the same one every night, but I don't understand what talking about. Why would Naruto be there; it has nothing to do with him. "Oh whatever," Sasuke sighed, walking towards his closet. He pulled out his usual black outfit and hastily dressed; snatching white bandages off his nightstand. While he wrapped his arms, his hands worked mechanically. Letting himself slide back into the recesses of his mind, he began to muse. What if I never came back…would they still miss me? I sure as hell wouldn't, he thought angrily, glaring darkly at his wall. Those two are so stupid, but they have changed. He hated to admit it, but Naruto wasn't a half-ass bad friend. Sure, he annoyed the hell out of him, but he was always there. Sakura, on the other hand…what could he say about her? It was true she was fifteen now, and a lot more prettier than when he left her those three years ago--but she was still just…annoying. Her attempts to open him up hadn't ceased, and Sasuke was beginning to get frustrated. Why wouldn't she just leave him alone? He was sick of the mask he put on every day, pretending he didn't give a crap; when in reality, he gave a lot of crap. He was on the verge of insanity, but he refused to let anyone know; let alone . Of course, he longed for someone's arms to hide in, but he was Uchiha Sasuke: cold hearted and an unmistakable bastard. He couldn't let anyone know he felt like giving up; loneliness consuming him every waking moment. Secretly, he enjoyed being in the presence of his former team; a smile always crossed his lips no matter the cause. He envied Naruto; his sunny disposition; loathed Sakura and her gentle nature. Those were two traits he had yet to possess, and oh how he wanted them.
Bitterly, he threw his blanket over his pillow, finally done with his wrapped arms. Onyx orbs glanced at a clock; reading six thirty. "Kuso," he muttered for the second time that morning. Wooden floorboards hummed softly as hasty feet trampled them, stilling only momentarily to slip black sandals on. Sasuke opened his door quietly, switching the lock closed before pulling it shut behind him. With his façade in place he began his walk, slightly grateful for the solitude it brought him. But he was always alone; there was hardly ever any change.
"Sasuke-kun! Wait up!" He was jerked from his thoughts as he stopped expectedly, awaiting the owner of the voice running towards him. She caught up seconds later, flashing him a bright smile.
"Good morning Sasuke-kun! Did you sleep well?"
"Hn." His usual answer to anything someone asked. He began walking again, Sakura in step with him. I guess I'm not alone anymore, he thought absently. This somehow calmed him from his apprehension earlier; from that dream.
"That's good," she said, glancing sideways at him. "Oh! I found out we have a mission today. I think you can attend this one too--Kakashi-sensei said you are vital to the mission." This quirked Sasuke's interest, slightly.
"What's the mission?"
"I'm…I'm not really sure," She said honestly. "He said he'd explain the details more at the bridge." She was curious about it herself, wondering why Sasuke would be so important. He was an outstanding fighter, but for Tsunade-sama to allow him to come on a mission--it was questionable. He had been on probation ever since the day he came back, only allowed to train with them but not attend their missions. I wonder how difficult this mission is, Sakura thought inquisitively. I hope it doesn't have something to do with…no, it doesn't. We wouldn't get assigned a mission like that…or would we? Well Kakashi-sensei better not have us wait more than a half hour, she thought bitterly. If he does, I'll be sure to give him a piece of my mind.
With Sasuke's attention now lost, she wracked her brain endlessly for ways to start up a conversation. Think, think, think, her mind screamed. I can't, she thought helplessly; her head lowering. Like he'd want to talk to me anyway. He hates me. She shifted her eyes on him, taking in his handsome face. Crimson spilled across her cheeks as he met her gaze steadily.
"Oh-um…uh…sorry!" Sakura turned her flushed face away, ignoring how much of an idiot she must have sounded like. Her heart felt heavy, but she pretended to be unaffected.
A smirk spread across Sasuke's lips, watching his friend with mild interest. She was embarrassed for staring? Ha, he thought, she never changed. But then it hit him all at once; she still loved him. After everything he had said to her, everything he had did to her, those feelings for him never wavered. It was almost admirable, he thought. I don't understand why she loves me though, if anything she should love Naruto. He was the one to dry her tears when I left no doubt, and they had obviously grown a lot closer while I was gone. He could tell since they would not stop talking to each other. They barely paid any attention to him, which was okay with him; somewhat.
The bridge was as it always was; crimson painted walls and tan wooden floorboards connecting either side. The sun was exceptionally bright, reflecting their shuffled images into the clear, cerulean river below. Sasuke stilled, taking his usual position against the wall; his elbows resting on the sturdy edge. Naruto was no where to be seen, so he figured he'd relax a bit when he had the chance; it was early. Onyx orbs closed lazily, paying no mind to the kunoichi accompanying him. Said girl took her place next to him, jade eyes captivated by the serene atmosphere. The water below lapped against the edges of the path nonchalantly, the sound pleasant. Even the birds were quite calm, chirping softly amongst the many trees situated around them. Normally, Sakura wouldn't have minded the peaceful ambiance, but she was becoming fairly uncomfortable. She missed Naruto. He was always ecstatic about everything; she hated silence since she'd met him. It was when she felt entirely alone, similar to the feeling she had when Sasuke had not returned. It appalled her immensely.
"Um…Sasuke-kun?"
"….." Damn it to hell, he thought. Now what? Can't she see I don't want to talk?
"Well…Naruto-kun isn't here yet, so I thought we could you know…talk?" She eyed him questionably, awaiting his answer. She couldn't help but wonder where Naruto was either. He must have stopped for Ichiraku Ramen, she guessed.
"….Hn." What were they supposed to talk about anyway? Sasuke asked himself this as he realized they had nothing in common.
"So, about this mission," she hesitated, "I--"
"SAKURA-CHAN!" Sakura was cut off as a blur of orange raced towards them, tackling her and Sasuke into a tight embrace. "Good Mooooorning!"
Sasuke winced, Naruto's voice creating an annoying ringing in his ear. "Get off, dobe."
"FINE! SASUKE-TEME!" Naruto pushed Sasuke aside and crushed his body against Sakura's only. "I'd rather hug Sakura-chan anyway!"
"Naruto-kun….." Sakura smiled at him; would have hugged him back if he wasn't suffocating her, and if her arms weren't crushed between them. "….I….can't br-breathe…"
"OH! Sorry Sakura-chaaan!" His arms loosened around her, though he did not pull away. He snuggled his face comfortably in her pink tresses, taking in the delicious strawberry scent. "Mmm…Sakura-chan you smell good." His wide grin went unseen to her, but Sasuke caught it; was Naruto trying to make him jealous? How could he be jealous? It was Sakura for God's sake!
"Ari…Arigato Naruto-kun…." Sakura said hesitantly, pondering silently why he was being so friendly. Then again, what was she talking about? He was always this friendly. She returned his hug and smiled contently. Three years ago she would have punched him for being this intimate, but since Sasuke had left them, they had become quite close. Why be mean to him now? Naruto deserved much better, she thought. He was a great friend.
Sasuke narrowed his eyes as Naruto plastered an even bigger grin on; Sakura had not rejected his embrace. "Oi, you're annoying."
"Shut up Sasuke-teme. You're just jealous 'cause I get to hold Sakura-chan!" Naruto playfully stuck his tongue out, unaware of Sakura's uncomfortable squirm.
"I don't care about that, you're just too happy," he replied coldly, his onyx eyes flashing a dangerous crimson.
"Why are you getting so mad? God, it's just a HUG!"
"What the hell are you talking about? I already told you I--"
"Yeah yeah, you don't care," Naruto finished for him, smiling triumphantly at the dark look Sasuke graced him with. He then released his hold on Sakura and jumped backwards onto the bridge's edge. His back was turned on them; his legs dangling over the ever-flowing river. Geez, he thought, Sasuke's sure uptight today. I wonder what got shoved up his ass? Ah whatever. It's not like he'd bother to tell me. He yawned absentmindedly, a slight look of annoyance tainting his features. Kakashi-sensei was late…as usual.
"Naruto-kun?"
"Hai, Sakura-chaaan?"
"I found out we have a mission today. It's supposed to be--"
"WHAT! WE DO! AWESOME!" Naruto exclaimed, jumping off the ledge and throwing his arms around Sakura again. Ecstatic, he spun around in circles; Sakura being the object of his spinning. "I'M GUNNA BE BETTER THAN SASUKE OF COURSE!"
Sasuke scoffed. "As if. You're still a dobe." He glowered at the sight in front of him. Sakura was giggling foolishly and Naruto was, and looked like, an idiot. God how he despised them; or maybe it was just Naruto.
"Ahh I'm going to be sick," Sakura cried. She took a relaxed breath when Naruto halted, releasing his hold on her yet again. "Hah…I didn't even finish my sentence…."
Naruto smirked at her. "Of course. It's a mission! What'd ya expect?"
"Yeah…and Sasuke-kun is coming too."
"WHY! We don't need him!"
"Shut the hell up," Sasuke muttered vehemently. "I didn't ask to accompany you."
"I. DON'T. CARE."
"Guys, stop." Sakura said, sighing. They fought over nothing everyday, and it was beginning to frustrate her.
"Sorry Sakura-chan. He started--"
"Naruto!"
"Eh--I mean…uh…sorry?"
"Fine," she answered. Why do I have to put up with these two everyday? It was going to be another long morning. Sakura shifted her gaze elsewhere, eyeing the escalating sun. It must have been seven thirty at the least. If anything, they would have to wait until the sun was at least directly above their heads before their so-called sensei showed. She was going to definitely kill Kakashi.
"This is soooo boring," Naruto whined immaturely, a pout forming on his lips. God, he thought; aggravated. How long had they been standing there? It was really ridiculous how a Jounin was late for everything! He sighed irritably, slumping his head between his hands; situated on the bridge's ledge. His hair glistened in the sun, natural highlights softening his usual blonde; almost angelic-like, save for his expression. He turned his azure orbs lazily to gaze into a pair of jade eyes. "Sakura-chaaan….you have pretty eyes." He gave her his trademark smile, no longer sulking.
Sakura blushed at the sudden compliment, quickly averting his dazed stare. "No…yours…are prettier, silly." Sakura laughed at his stunned expression, presenting her with a 'what are you crazy!' look. She opted to convince him. "Mine are green, and yours are blue! Blue is…gorgeous."
"Arigato Sakura-chan! But I still like yours better!" He then turned his attention to the brooding raven-haired boy behind him. "Sasuke, yours are boring 'cause they're black."
Crimson unveiled itself around three onyx rain-drops; monochrome orbs dissolving. Sasuke regarded Naruto warningly, the color of blood now possessing his eyes.
"Whatever…Sharingan isn't special," the blonde stated, observing Sasuke's 'new' eyes.
"Naruto-kun, Sharingan is special. He's the last--! ...I mean.." Sakura closed her mouth shamefully, guilt searing through her. I didn't mean to, she thought sadly. I didn't mean to say last! I just wanted to defend him…what Naruto said was uncalled for. Oh God, now he definitely hates me.
"Sakura, I don't need you defending me," Sasuke retorted, his cold eyes burning into hers.
"I…I'm….sor--"
"SASUKE-TEME! Just SHUT UP," Naruto fumed; he was so sick of Sasuke. "She's just defending you and you have the NERVE to say you don't need her help! God, you're such an ass!"
Growling, Sasuke turned his back towards them, ignoring the heated stare penetrating his back. He didn't need anybody's help! And why the hell did he care Naruto complimented Sakura and she blushed! "Kuso," he muttered to himself. I shouldn't even care if my eyes are black and Sakura likes blue…why the hell did I use my Sharingan? What the hell is wrong with me today? Damn you, Naruto!
"Naruto-kun…it's okay. S-Sasuke-kun…I'm sorry," Sakura whispered. She watched his back, wondering if he had heard her. "…Sasuke-kun?"
"Whatever," the shinobi spat, leaving Sakura distraught. He didn't give a rats ass about anything she said; at least that's what he kept telling himself. He was already fed up with waiting for their idiot of a sensei, and Naruto only angered him further. He couldn't help but feel a sudden chill run through his bones. Why did he care she sounded upset?
The three lapsed into silence yet again, failing to bring up a topic without quarreling. Still fuming, the blonde glared at his rival, who in return, glared right back. Sakura sighed inwardly, wishing their sensei would hurry up so her two companions would end their stupidity.
"Yo!" A voice said, gray clouds obscuring his figure from the former team seven. Naturally, they knew very well whom it was.
"Speak of the devil," Sakura dryly said. "I was just thinking of ways to kill you. YOU'RE LATE AGAIN!"
"Gomen, gomen! I got caught up--"
"In your stupid book while trying to act out the censored stuff on an old lady. We know." Naruto said whist flashing his sensei a sinister smirk. Obviously, he had forgotten his death-glaring contest with Sasuke.
"Actually, I--"
"I don't care," Sasuke interrupted, glaring darkly. "Tell me, what is this mission I'm so vital for?" He was already agitated by Naruto's actions; he wasn't about to wait any longer now that Kakashi was there.
"Ah. That mission." The Jounin cleared his throat, looking thoughtful. "Well, it's a mission to track down…one of Orochimaru's henchmen. Remember Kabuto? Tsunade wants him captured. She needs some information from him; something about his medical skills. She refused to tell me anymore details."
"Kabuto? That bastard is still alive?" Naruto asked. His azure orbs darkened as he eyed Kakashi.
"Yes. Sasuke, you knew that as well."
"Hn." What the hell did they need him for, he cursed. Kuso! I don't want to go back there…not if I have to see…
--
"Sasuke-kun, I have a favor to ask. I want you to find Naruto for me, your former friend. Right?"
"Why the hell would I do that?" Like hell I'd want to see his stupid face again, Sasuke thought frostily.
"Because I asked you to. You will do as I say or I will not allow you to keep my power."
"Kuso…why the hell do you want him?"
"He is a lot stronger than you. He will serve as a better body."
"….? WHAT THE HELL! YOU STUPID BASTARD!" Sasuke screamed, lunging himself into the shadows. He was stopped midway as a silver kunai grazed his nose, sending him stumbling backwards. He growled menacingly, wiping the fresh blood from his face. "You dick…Kabuto…."
"Sasuke-kun….that is no way to treat your master. You are very ill-mannered." A tall figure appeared from the dark depths, his silver glasses shining eerily in the dim light. "Do you still care about Naruto? You left him three years ago…that would be pitiful. After that massacre you created, you still have room for petty emotions. How amusing."
"You don't know shit," the raven-haired boy sneered, slipping numerous kunai between his fingers. He stood stolid, paying no heed to the smirk playing across his adversary's lips.
"Sasuke-kun…are you betraying us?" The darkness asked, the question laced with venom.
"Go to hell!" He released his kunai, instantaneously forming seals to use his fire technique. "KATON! GOUKAKYUU NO JUTSU!" The blazing inferno intertwined the kunai, pushing forward to deliver itself. He then used his right hand to clutch his left arm; blue Chakra slowly materializing. The blue darkened as black energy poured out, the two Chakra mixing dangerously. "CHIDORI!" A chirping noise was heard as he hurled himself forward, blending in with his previous attack. In the instant he was close enough, he smashed his immense fist into the flame, electricity coming in contact with a body.
"AUUUUUGHHHH!" Kabuto screamed as he flew backwards, his body crumbling once he hit the concrete wall. The impact left him unconscious, his body mutilated into the rubble sited among him.
"….." The savage teen watched as smoke cleared, eyeing the befallen man. His hand held spasms every now and then, but he found himself smirking maliciously.
"Sasuke-kun….you are powerful. But I want Naruto. Bring me him."
"Shut up," Sasuke retorted, looking coldly at the darkness. "You can use him." He nodded his head towards Kabuto, snorting at how easily he had been taken down. He pivoted slowly, allowing his back face the black depths.
"Are you leaving? I will not stop you. However, if I see your face again, one of your friends will suffer a slow, painful death. And you will do nothing but watch, because you won't be able to save him." Sasuke barely heard the last word as he ran forward; his mind set on one thing: To see his friends again, and keep Naruto safe.
"Orochimaru….I will kill you."
--
Sasuke glowered, tightly clenching his fists until his knuckles turned white. I thought I killed that bastard…I should have made sure before I left…kuso.
"But wait--where do we find him?" Sakura looked at her sensei curiously. And what could Tsunade-sama possibly need from Kabuto? What kind of special medical jutsu did he know? She was definitely confused.
"I was told he was last seen near the Village of the Sound; the northern-eastern half, in the mountains. I've asked Neji and Shikamaru to accommodate you three." He paused, studying each of his students expressions; Sasuke's in particular. He looked furious, his crimson orbs reflecting death and violence from his past. This mission is quite personal for him, Kakashi thought. He left Orochimaru, but for what reason? Kabuto is somehow related….I can see it in his eyes. "Shikamaru will be the leader, and you all will follow his orders unquestionably. You two, Naruto and Sasuke, will be the defensive and offensive, as well as Neji. And Sakura, your main job is to heal your team. Do I make myself clear?"
"Crystal clear!" Naruto exclaimed, his eyes glowing with enthusiasm.
"Hai, Kakashi-sensei," Sakura answered firmly.
"….." Sasuke didn't need to acknowledge this, it was all common sense. Though Kakashi was looking at him expectedly and he sighed, muttering a short "Hn." He waited for Kakashi to continue, glimpses of his flashback still playing in his mind.
"Well, now that's settled! Your mission starts now. Shikamaru and Neji are probably waiting at the gate so hurry and pack your things. Good luck, be careful, and don't do anything stupid." The last remark was more for Naruto and Sasuke; they of course already knew. In return, they each frowned angrily, forcing Kakashi into a awkward smile. "So then, ja ne!" He waved them off and disappeared within his dark cloud of smoke.
The three team mates stood immobile, lost within their own thoughts. The cloud had dispersed, and minutes after Sakura decided to break the silence. Standing there wasn't going to get them on the mission.
"Guys, we should go pack now. Shikamaru and Neji are waiting."
"YEAH! Come on Sakura-chan, I'll walk with you!" Naruto hastily snatched her hand and stepped forward, dragging her with him.
"Chutto Matte Naruto-kun! What about Sasuke-kun!"
"He doesn't need us to walk him home!"
"But-"
"Oi, dobe!" Sasuke was rather irritated, especially since Naruto never listened to anything anyone ever said. And the fact he was pulling Sakura off to wherever he wanted to go; wasn't that considered rude?
Naruto stopped abruptly; Sakura crashing into his back. "Ah--! …Naru-?" Sakura fell silent when Naruto turned around, smiling sheepishly.
"Sorry Sakura-chan. Sasuke called me…." He turned his attention behind her, waiting for Sasuke to say what ever it was he was going to say. Kuso, Naruto thought angrily. He always annoys me when I'm with Sakura-chan! He needs to get himself a girl…and it's not going to be Sakura. Naruto's eyes slanted. Definitely not Sakura.
"I'm coming too." It was all Sasuke needed to say to infuriate the blonde.
"WHY! YOU DON'T GIVE A SHIT ABOUT US AND YOU LOVE BEING ALONE SO WHY DON'T YOU JUST GO HOME YOURSELF!" Yeah, he was pretty pissed.
"Because I happen to live this way, dobe."
"Stop calling me that bastard!"
"GUYS!" Sakura all but screamed. "Please just get a hold of yourselves. We're all friends, and we're all going on the same mission together. Let's try to get along."
"….Fine," Naruto mumbled, totally disagreeing with Sakura on the "friends" part. Sasuke felt the exact same way but followed nonetheless, shoving both his hands in his pockets heatedly. Sakura walked on between them, exasperated. It was as if she was babysitting! Who in their right mind baby sits fifteen year olds, she wondered inaudibly. Especially fifteen year old ninjas! It was unheard of.
"Sakura," Sasuke found himself saying out loud, wanting to talk to her but not knowing what to say. Kuso…I already said her name out loud, he thought. Now what?
The kunoichi's eyebrows furrowed, she was utterly baffled. Sasuke was talking to her? The most he ever did was give her a one-worded answer when she talked to him. "….Hai, Sas-Sasuke-kun?"
What am I supposed to say to her, Sasuke asked himself. He was angry for getting her attention; angry for allowing himself to slip.
"Damnit answer her, Sasuke!" Naruto was curious, too curious for his own good.
Sasuke scowled, ignoring Naruto's sudden outburst. "Just….bring extra solider pills….for the mission." Even if that's not really what he'd wanted to say, they needed solider pills anyway. Kabuto was a strong opponent, and even him and Naruto might need some.
"O-Okay, Sasuke-kun." That was all he wanted to say, Sakura thought miserably. He didn't speak to her a lot; this being no exception. Jade eyes watched him longingly; completely oblivious to a distraught Naruto.
"……" Why is she looking at Sasuke like that? Could she still….love him? That's impossible! Naruto gaped at her; the look in her eyes was apparent. She loves him! It was like kunai digging under his fingernails; he cringed at the very thought. Why? How? He was such an ass! Naruto glared, feeling jealousy pulsate through his veins. I won't let you win, Sasuke.
"Sakura-chaaaan!" Naruto chimed, knowing he would get her attention. Sure enough, said girl turned her head towards him.
"Hmmm?" She was startled when he leaned forward, planting a chaste kiss on her forehead. He then proceeded to lower his brow against hers; antagonizing their lips by mere inches. She felt the heat rise in her cheeks as she stared into fiery azure orbs. He was so close to her, and she didn't know how to react, especially not if he kissed her. Sakura's heart throbbed in her chest; blaring in her ears. "…N-Naruto….kun?"
"What the hell are you doing?" Sasuke asked darkly, interrupting Naruto's plan to keep Sakura's interest for longer than a minute. The raven-haired boy was furious at the two being that intimate, and even more furious at Sakura for accepting everything! But what infuriated him the most was how much he cared.
Naruto sighed, knowing he couldn't ignore what Sasuke said. He lifted his head irritably. "What's it to you?"
"We have a mission so stop stalling. What are you, scared?" He smirked at the ever growing scowl on Naruto's face.
"I'm not scared. Just shut up." He lowered his eyes, smiling at a flushed Sakura while slipping his hand in hers, pulling her into step with him. She was still dazed, unsure of how to comprehend what had just happened. He had practically kissed her! But then…Sasuke stopped them. What happened to Sasuke? He was acting rather strange, though only when Naruto was affectionate to her. Jade eyes widened in guilt, temporarily forgetting her embarrassment. Sakura couldn't feel more ashamed; she loved Sasuke, too.
"Na-Naruto-kun? Wait." She gently stopped him; turning to face her other friend. "Come on Sasuke-kun, we've wasted enough time already." She gave him a small smile, though she felt awkward in doing so.
"Hn." Sasuke closed their distance and continued walking next to Sakura; Naruto opposite her. There was a voice in the back of his head screaming at him for making a scene before. But if I hadn't said anything, they could have…oh whatever. It's not like I care. That wasn't right, of course he cared. He didn't like the idea of Naruto being the object of Sakura's attention. It was just undeniably annoying. He had to do something about that, before jealousy truly consumed him.
Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke continued to walk in silence, their destination: Each of their houses. It was an uncomfortable silence; tension as thick as smoke. The kunoichi wanted to end the dreadful quiet, but she had nothing to say to either of the two boys. If this is how it's going to be on the mission, she thought, I'm going to commit suicide. Literally.
Sakura's house was first to come into view; warm and welcoming in the midday sunlight. They continued walking until they were directly before her home.
Sakura turned towards her fellow ninja, smiling hesitantly. "Um…so I'll see you guys at the West Gate…."
"Yup! Bye Sakura-chan!" Naruto waved her off as she ran towards her front door, giving them her own wave of farewell before disappearing from sight.
"Sasuke, let's go."
"Are you coming, dobe?" Sasuke was already walking ahead, a good feet away from the blonde.
"Kuso…Sasuke-teme! I said stop calling me that! You haven't said my name once today!" Naruto sprinted forward, falling into step with Sasuke moments after.
"Naruto."
"What now!"
"I called you by your name."
Naruto growled, obviously not amused. Sasuke simply smirked, pleased he was getting on Naruto's nerves, and not vice versa. The scowling Naruto was silent for the rest of the time, ignoring the smirk Sasuke still wore on his face. Naruto mentally cursed. DAMN HIM! What happened to the Sasuke three years ago? Sure, he was a dick too, but he didn't fight with me every damn second! Damnit, I miss him for God's sake! Naruto glanced at his former best friend deviously, realizing he still didn't understand why Sasuke had come back to them. It was as if nothing important happened over the last three years. This entered his mind once a day at least, and he wanted to know the truth.
"Oi, Sasuke…?" Onyx eyes met his azure orbs in a questioning gaze. "….why….why did you come back?" The question caught Sasuke off guard, leaving his vulnerability visible. He was unable to answer.
"…..Sasuke," Naruto's tone was serious, forcing his friend to be as well. Sasuke couldn't lie, the question was bound to come up eventually. Now that it has, I have to answer it. Naruto…he is my closest friend.
"….Naruto," he began, watching his adversary's brows arch in anticipation, "….he….wanted someone else's body. Someone I knew….and I hated him….so much for that…I only went with him…because I wanted power to kill Itachi…." He looked down, ashamed. He had lied to Naruto…he couldn't bring himself to say Orochimaru wanted his body. He wouldn't allow Naruto to fall into that bastard's hands, like he had. The cursed seal was still pulsating through his body, showing him terrible images at night; in his dreams. Even if he asked Kakashi to seal it again, the risk of it opening itself like it had numerous times before was immensely high. It would not disappear until Orochimaru was dead, and Sasuke swore he'd be the one to put him in hell.
"….did you…..?" Naruto was looking intently at the raven-haired ninja, unsure of how to grasp his last sentence.
"….yes."
"….oh," Naruto was stunned. Sasuke had actually killed his brother, Itachi. It was…unreal. At least he didn't have to worry about the Akatsuki chasing after his Kyuubi anymore; but he was still puzzled. Who was it that Orochimaru wanted for his new body? And if Sasuke knew who it was, how come he wasn't with the person? Perhaps the person Sasuke wanted to protect he also knew?
"Sasuke….who does Orochimaru….want as his new body?"
"…..it doesn't matter."
"Sasuke! You said you know them! ….who could it be? Is it Kakashi-sensei?"
"No! Just drop it!" Sasuke's eyes were now a deep crimson, the morning light softening his harsh glare. "…go pack your things. We're in front of your house."
"But…you didn't answer my first question. ….Why did you come back…?" Naruto understood the situation fairly well, but Sasuke hadn't answered his first question completely.
"….because…something Orochimaru said….opened my eyes…." It was the last thing Sasuke said before turning away, leaving a disoriented Naruto in his wake.