Best Friend's Brother 23
HOMECOMING! Part 4
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or any characters used aside from my OC.
Natsumi released a sigh of relief as she and Mikoto made it back to the woman's car.
"Is everything alright Natsumi?" Mikoto asked curiously as they buckled their seat belts.
"Hn" Natsumi replied with a nod before Mikoto started the vehicle.
'At least not for Sai' the dark haired teen thought.
"Alright dear" Mikoto replied wearily before the two began to make their way to the Uchiha residence.
Stepping into the home the woman carried in their shopping bags.
"We're back!" Mikoto called as she and Natsumi entered the Uchiha residence.
They were met with silence.
'Seems like Mikoto doesn't receive the same welcome she gives, then again I can't really imagine Fugaku or either of the two boys rushing up offering hugs the way she does' Natsumi thought as she watched Mikoto give a disappointed huff.
Suddenly Itachi appeared from the hallway, making his way over to his mother who smiled happily. He wore a black band t-shirt for The Ramones in faded white letters with a pair of dark blue jeans.
"Itachi" she said in greeting to her oldest son.
"Mother" he said taking the bags from her arms and earning a hug from the woman before his onyx hues shifted to Natsumi. "Hello Natsumi" he greeted the teen girl upon being released by his mother.
Natsumi gave the young man a small smile as she watched him stand back to his full height as his mother let go. Mikoto suddenly had a look of alarm cross her face as she turned to look at Natsumi before glancing back to her son.
"Itachi dear you aren't busy are you?" Mikoto asked curiously as she furrowed her brows.
"Well I came up to grab water when I heard you get in, I think the others are expecting me back" Itachi began to explain as his mother released another heavy sigh.
"Oh dear, I need to discuss something with your father, I was hoping you could help Natsumi take the bags up to the guest room" Mikoto stated.
Itachi looked to the ground as he thought before he shifted his gaze back to his mother before giving a simple nod that made a proud smile cross her face.
"Thank you dear" Mikoto said placing a loving hand on her son's cheek before turning to make her way to Fugaku's study.
"Shall we?" Itachi then asked turning back to Natsumi, who up until now observed silently.
"Hn" Natsumi replied with a small nod before Itachi turned to lead her to the guest bedroom.
At first there was no conversation between the two as they climbed the staircase to the second floor. Natsumi did her best to keep her attention forward but found her glancing to the older Uchiha every now and then before deciding to try and strike up a conversation. The dark haired girl opened her mouth to speak as they started down the hall, until being stopped when Itachi spoke instead.
"I take it mother plans to get you ready here?" Itachi asked as they stood outside the door.
"Yes" Natsumi replied as she watched the older boy reach out to open the door, before stepping back and motioning for her to enter first.
'Chivalrous' Natsumi mentally noted stepping into the room.
Upon entering Natsumi was taken aback by the undeniable beauty of the room. It was definitely smaller than Sasuke's room but large none the less. The walls were white with a few framed pictures of the Uchiha's throughout the room as well as landscapes. There were two large bay windows on either side of the queen sized bed that was one of the first things to be seen upon entering. The bedding was white with a variety of grey pillows decorating the top. Off to the side was a huge wooden dresser and a small matching coffee table that was at the foot of the bed. In the far corner was another door, that Natsumi assumed to be a closet and beside the entrance, there was a large TV mounted on the wall so it could be seen from the bed.
"Whoa" Natsumi commented walking further in and taking in the room further.
"Did you not see this room during the tour?" Itachi asked curiously stepping into the room as he watched the mesmerized look on the teen's face shift to him as she smiled sheepishly.
"Sasuke mentioned that the upstairs had your father's study and parent's room up the other staircase, while this one led to the guest room, your room, and his room" Natsumi explained earning a nod of understanding from the Uchiha before he walked over to the coffee table to set down the shopping bags he had taken from his mother.
Following his lead Natsumi began to do the same thing, until being stopped by Itachi.
"We should probably hang your dress so it doesn't wrinkle" he explained as Natsumi nodded in reply.
She lifted up the dress that was enclosed in a tall dress bag.
"Hn" Itachi said reaching out to take the item from Natsumi.
For a moment the older boy's hand brushed against her finger tips when he took hold of the hanger. Natsumi felt her heartbeat quicken at this, before shaking the thought from her head and watching the Uchiha make his way over to the door in the far corner. As he opened it, she saw she was correct in assuming what it was. He reached to the top shelf of the closet, taking out a silver hook that would latch onto the top of the door. After placing the object to the top of the door, he hooked her dress's hanger on and left the door open.
'Wow he's so tall, he didn't even have to reach that high to do any of that' Natsumi thought in amazement as her mind thought of how she would have struggled to perform the task without being on her tippy toes.
"Is everything alright?" Itachi asked noticing the gloom that surrounded the dark haired teen girl as she kept her eyes trained on his feet.
"Yes" Natsumi replied in a defeated tone as she looked up to meet Itachi's gaze.
He raised a brow at the teen, being able to tell she was lying; he walked over to her, surprising her as he placed a hand on top of her head.
"I can tell you're lying" he stated making her feel like she was shrinking back under the gaze of his onyx orbs.
Natsumi nervously fumbled with her hands as she stared downward. There was an awkward silence between the two until she heard the boy release a sigh, prompting her to speak.
"I'm so short" Natsumi replied looking to the side with a blush of embarrassment crossing her face.
To her surprise this earned a light chuckle from the Uchiha before he went about patting her head.
"You shouldn't worry about it so much, I think you're actually a nice height" he said reassuringly.
"That's easy to say when you're tall ... Also you petting me isn't helping with that point" Natsumi replied bringing the young man's action's to a halt and prompting him to remove his hand as an awkward silence befell the pair. "I'm sorry that came off a lot harsher than I thought it would" Natsumi said after a while.
"It's fine Natsumi" Itachi said giving the girl a kind smile. "I believe we're done here now" he stated suddenly pulling out his phone and having his brows rise in surprise.
"Is everything alright?" Natsumi asked curiously.
"The Akatsuki are growing a little impatient with my absence" Itachi replied earning a nod of understanding from Natsumi before the pair turned to exit.
Stepping out of the room, Natsumi slowly made her way across the hall to Sasuke's door, before turning back to see Itachi closing the guest room door before turning to make his way to the staircase.
"Itachi" Natsumi called, bringing the young man to an abrupt halt as he turned back to look at her.
"Yes?" he asked.
Natsumi nervously glanced to the side.
'Just spit it out' she thought before glancing back to his blank face.
"Thank you" she said quickly.
"It was no problem Natsumi, besides it's not like I can really say 'no' to my mother" he replied with a kind smile.
"I didn't mean for now" Natsumi corrected making a confused look cross his face. "Although I am thankful for your help now" Natsumi said awkwardly as she scratched the back of her neck while she looked to the side.
"Oh?" Itachi asked regaining her attention as he walked closer to the teen.
"Well for warning me about the whole Homecoming proposal thing today" Natsumi admitted with a sheepish smile.
Itachi smiled down at the girl before placing a hand on top of her head.
"It's nothing to thank me for Natsumi" he said kindly. "I know you're not really one for attention and I know Sasuke wouldn't have enjoyed it any more than you ... You're both very alike" he went on as a light blush crossed the dark haired girl's face.
"Hn" Natsumi agreed with a nod as Itachi removed his hand.
"Well I'll see you at dinner Natsumi" Itachi said turning to walk away as Natsumi looked after him.
'It's nice that he notices the little things ... He cares a lot' Natsumi thought before turning to make her way into Sasuke's room.
Entering the room Natsumi was met with the sight of Sasuke lying face up on his bed while on his phone. After hearing her enter, the Uchiha turned his gaze to her for a moment before looking back to his device.
"You and mom sure took your sweet time" he said making the girl roll her eyes as she made her way further into the room, dropping her bag on the side of the grey sofa. "How long does it need to take to get some stupid dress?" he asked bluntly. "It's not like it really matters what you picked though, since it would take a miracle to make you less unappealing" he stated teasingly.
Natsumi narrowed her eyes at the teen, before an idea crossed her mind. Immediately the dark haired teen jumped onto the mattress beside the boy, bouncing him much to his surprise before he suddenly dropped his phone onto his face. Natsumi quickly broke into laughter prompting an annoyed grunt from the boy as he brought a hand to his nose.
"Idiot!" Sasuke said in an annoyed tone as Natsumi rolled onto her side in laughter.
"Am I less unappealing now?" Natsumi asked snidely, earning a glare from the teen boy.
Natsumi smiled at Sasuke before he released moved his hand from his face as an idea crossed his mind.
"You know I might have a way to help" Sasuke said earning a confused look from the girl as she raised a brow in question.
The Uchiha smirked at her before abruptly turning and kicking her off the bed with his foot. Natsumi fell to the floor with a loud thud before glancing up to see Sasuke peering down at her from the side of the mattress with a smirk.
"Sasuke" Natsumi said in a warning tone as she glared at the dark haired boy.
She lifted herself to her elbows, before being struck in the face with a pillow. Her face at first showed shock before turning to anger as Sasuke smiled down at her.
"That was a cheap shot!" Natsumi exclaimed angrily.
Picking up the pillow she quickly aimed back at the Uchiha before swinging at his face. Unfortunately Sasuke immediately reached out to grasp the object in front of him, much to the girl's dismay.
"Let go!" Natsumi said trying to pull it back as she sat up and sat on her heels.
Sasuke held tightly with arm before reaching behind himself and grabbing another pillow that he struck Natsumi with.
"Sasuke!" Natsumi exclaimed in surprise. "That's not fair!" the teen said in a frustrated tone as she watched Sasuke raise it to strike her again.
"It's not my fault, I just have the advantage being on top" he said smugly before bringing the pillow back down on the teen girl.
'You're dead' Natsumi thought narrowing her eyes.
...
Meanwhile Mikoto had finished discussing the matters of Friday with her husband. Fugaku seemed apprehensive to the idea at first, but his wife persistence made him cave in, but of course this was met under the condition that he speak with the two first.
"I think you're being far too anxious dear" Mikoto said as she and Fugaku climbed the steps toward their son's room. "Sasuke and Natsumi are good kids" she continued as the pair reached the top of the staircase.
"Regardless of that, we were their age once Mikoto. I know how teenagers can be" he replied as they walked down the hall.
"You make it seem like they would do something drastic" Mikoto said trying to brush off the topic.
The pair continued on until coming to a halt outside the door.
"Maybe you're right" Fugaku said releasing a defeated sigh before the pair heard Natsumi's voice.
"Sasuke!" Natsumi exclaimed. "That's not fair!" she said in an exasperated tone.
Then they heard the voice of their son.
"It's not my fault, I just have the advantage being on top" Sasuke said, making both parents turn to each other with wide eyes before barging into the room.
Much to their relief there was no nefarious activity, allowing them to release breaths of relief. They watched as Sasuke brought a pillow down onto Natsumi who sat on the floor while he was on top of his bed. Quickly the teens froze after noting the arrival of the parents.
"Sasuke Uchiha!" Mikoto said placing her hands on her hips in a chastising tone.
"What is the meaning of this?" Fugaku asked motioning to the pillow Sasuke had raised over his head while his other arm held tightly to the pillow Natsumi gripped in front of her.
Immediately both teens jumped from their spots.
"We have some things to discuss" Fugaku stated pointing the pair to the grey couch in Sasuke's room.
Both dark haired teens nodded obediently before Natsumi tossed the pillow in her hands to Sasuke. It struck him in the face, earning the girl a glare from the boy before he placed them back at the top of his bed before they rushed to sit in front of Fugaku. Looking over the pair Fugaku passed in front of the teens for a moment before coming to a halt and turning to them with his arms crossed over his chest.
'I wonder what this is about' Natsumi thought curiously as she maintained a stoic expression. 'I hope this isn't about Mitaka or any other antics my father is going through to try and dig up dirt on my friends in Konoha' the teen thought worriedly as she felt her chest tighten.
Sasuke kept a straight stare on his father, before shifting the gaze of his onyx hues to Natsumi, who from what he could see, was holding her breath in anticipation of what his father would say.
'She has a blank look but she's frightened, I hope he doesn't notice' Sasuke thought looking back to his father who had his eyes closed as he took a deep breath.
"Homecoming is coming" he stated, surprising both teens as they looked at him with raised brows. "Your mother tells me that she would prefer to have Natsumi spend the night afterwards to assist her in getting unready but also so she won't have to be alone with her mother on business" he said, making the teens glance over to the woman who stood off to the side silently. "She's made a compelling argument on the matter, but like any parent I have my apprehensions to it seeing as you're both ..." he began to explain before trailing off. "Not of the same se- gender" he stated as both teens raised brows in realization.
Natsumi and Sasuke looked at Fugaku who at this point refused to look either of them in the eye as he continued on.
"This isn't completely unreasonable and I don't think it's necessary for me to explain myself to you but either way I know how it can be to be of your age" he stated making the pair give him a weary look. "Teenagers have urges and these can be difficult to ignore when you're close to or involved with like you are with one another" he said before looking to the teens' uncomfortable looks they gave him. "Now I know you said you weren't together in that sense and you might think its old fashioned of me to try and define this relationship, but you spend a lot of time together and we've had Natsumi over a lot lately" he said before glancing to the teen girl. "And we've enjoyed her company a lot" he said earning an appreciative nod from the girl before continuing. "But the point is you're attending a function together as each other's dates and sleeping under the same roof so I just want to be clear on a few rules" he stated as the two gave him blank stares.
"Father, Natsumi and I are friends" Sasuke stated.
"Yes you've said this before but back in my day we called it going steady and say as you might, that's what seems to be happening here" Fugaku said pointing between the two teens.
There was an awkward silence as the pair stared at the man in disbelief.
"First and fore most I don't want any inappropriate behavior" he said firmly. "I think I speak for every parent in saying 'I don't want to be a grandparent too early'" he said making the teens shrink back.
Natsumi raised her brows at this before glancing to Sasuke and scooting away. Much to her surprise the dark haired boy stared at his father with his usual stoic expression that was almost normal, aside from the pink tint across his cheeks.
"Next, just so we're clear, you two are to never sleep in the same room." He stated. "Are we clear?" he asked gruffly earning nods of understanding from the pair.
'I can't believe this' Sasuke thought feeling his ears burn red as he waited for his father to continue.
"Alright and finally, I want to be certain you are both in your perspective beds of your perspective rooms by no later than 1 am" he said earning solemn nods from the teens before he too nodded to the pair and turned to make his way out.
"I'll call you two when dinner is ready" Mikoto said giving Sasuke and Natsumi a kind smile before rushing off.
The pair sat in awkward silence for a long time until Natsumi finally turned to Sasuke.
"We're not talking about it" Sasuke said in a controlling voice, earning a nod from the dark haired teen girl, before she looked to her lap.
After a while Sasuke finally rose from his seat, making his way over to his bed and taking a seat. He then reached over the edge of his bed, picking up his school bag to open. The Uchiha sifted through its contents for a while before producing a binder and a pencil. Natsumi looked at him, before reaching over the edge of the couch and pulling her bag up from the ground. The teens then worked silently on their homework until dinner.
To say dinner was awkward would be the understatement of the year. There was a silence as everyone ate, and when Itachi tried to ask about the change in atmosphere, he was quickly silenced following a stare from Sasuke and Natsumi. He gave a confused expression before nodding in understanding as the family continued on in silence for the rest of the meal. After being dropped off by Sasuke that night, Natsumi made her way up to her room feeling utterly exhausted before hearing her phone ding, indicating she had received a new text.
"Hey Natsumi, do you want to see a movie?" the girl read aloud as she opened the message from Naruto.
Not really feeling up to replying, Natsumi decided to call the blonde, but was surprised when it wasn't his cheerful voice on the other line, but Sakura.
"Hello Natsumi" Sakura said from the other line, making Natsumi do a double check on her caller id.
"Sakura?" Natsumi asked in a confused tone.
"Yes" she heard the pinkette reply from the other line.
"Uh where's Naruto?" Natsumi asked curiously.
"Oh he's right here" Sakura replied before shuffling was heard on the other end shortly followed by a 'hey' from the blonde.
"Hn" Natsumi replied dropping her bag by her door as she walked through her room.
"I hope you don't mind, but I didn't have your number and since Naruto did, I thought I'd see if you wanted to join us" Sakura explained.
"Us?" Natsumi asked.
"Oh me, Naruto, Ino and Sai" the girl replied from the other line.
'That's an interesting group' Natsumi thought in surprise.
"Um I don't know Sakura, I just got home and it's been kind of a long day" Natsumi stated tiredly.
"Oh come on Natsumi, it'll be a lot of fun" Sakura whined from the other line as Natsumi began to take off her school jacket.
"I'm sure it will be but it's a school night" Natsumi replied looking at the time as she hoped it would provide a suitable enough excuse.
"The movie's only an hour and a half" Sakura coaxed. "Come on I'm not taking no for an answer, come spend time with your friends" Sakura continued on encouragingly.
"Didn't you and Ino call her a snake just yesterday?" Natsumi heard Sai ask from the other line.
"Shut it Sai!" Sakura said in a threatening tone, that made Natsumi stifle a laugh.
Natsumi walked over to her closet beginning to pull out a t-shirt and a pair of shorts as she contemplated going with her friends.
"Natsumi?" she then heard Naruto from the other line followed by a shuffling sound as she thought of him walking off with his phone. "Please come, Sakura's never agreed to hang out with me this long unless Sasuke was going to be there too" he pleaded from the other line, making Natsumi release a huff of annoyance. "Please, I'll do whatever you want to make it up to you" the boy continued to plead making Natsumi roll her eyes.
'He's really willing to do anything for Sakura' Natsumi thought. 'I swear all of this over a stupid crush' she went on in thought as Naruto continued with trying to bribe her out of the house.
"Fine" Natsumi said releasing a deep breath as Naruto cheered loudly. "Just give me a minute to change, I don't want to go in my uniform" she said into the device.
"Alright, we'll be by to pick you up in a bit" Naruto said excitedly before hanging up.
Natsumi released a heavy sigh before pinching the bridge of her nose as she shut her eyes.
"I hope I don't regret this" Natsumi said aloud before starting to change.
Natsumi wore a plain V-neck white t-shirt that fit her snugly while pairing it with a pair of black skinny jeans and a blue denim jacket over top. Quickly she stepped into a pair of black shoes before rushing out to see a silver car parked in her driveway. Slowly she walked over as the window rolled down to reveal the toothy smile of Naruto in the driver's seat.
"Hey Natsumi hop in" he said motioning to the back.
Upon entering, Natsumi saw that Sakura sat up front in the passenger seat, wearing a red crop top with a pair of faded blue overalls. From what she could see Naruto wore a pair of blue jeans with an orange and black jacket zipped all the way up. In the back with her were Sai and Ino. The blonde girl wore a purple fitted t-shirt with a pair of white skinny jeans. Sai wore a black long sleeve with a pair of dark denim jeans and a black jacket.
"Hello Natsumi" Sai greeted the girl with his usual closed eyed smile.
"Hey" Natsumi greeted.
"So can we go now or what?" Ino asked snidely as the others greeted Natsumi.
'Someone's in a bad mood' Natsumi thought glancing to the blonde before putting on her belt as Naruto pulled away from her house.
Ino's mood didn't seem to get any better when the group arrived at the theater. She abruptly exited the car, making her way to into the theater while the other trailed behind her. While everyone discussed snack options she brushed past them to order herself a soda before leaving them behind to find seats.
"Is she ok?" Natsumi asked looking after the blonde.
"She's just having a mood since she got into it with her parents" Sakura replied dismissively before stepping up to the counter. "Does anyone want to share popcorn?" The pinkette asked changing the topic.
Naruto immediately stepped up, leaving Natsumi standing beside Sai as the pair ordered.
"I'm sure you're probably just as lost as I am?" Natsumi asked looking to Sai.
"Lost? We're at the movie theater Natsumi" Sai said making the girl smile to stifle a laugh.
"I'll take that as a yes" Natsumi said. "I mean to say, perplexed on how Ino feels" she stated as Sai's eyes lit up in realization.
"Oh yes, it was a rather confusing exchange she had with her parents" he said surprising Natsumi.
"You were there?" she asked in disbelief.
"Oh yes, but I still don't understand what made her so upset" he replied.
"What happened?" Natsumi asked.
"I met her mother and father, who happened to be that man that helped us earlier" he clarified.
'Obviously' Natsumi thought, before urging the boy to continue.
"Well her mother was very nice and her father seemed to be a little surprised that she was going with me. Then he started to go over some ground rules for taking Ino out and she didn't seem to take so kindly to that" Sai explained as Natsumi nodded in understanding. "Then her mother brought up some issues with her dress and after seeing a picture, her father seemed to agree" Sai went on.
By this time Sakura and Naruto stepped off to the side to wait for their order.
"He then said if she wore that dress then she couldn't go with a date and he would pick her up from the event himself" Sai stated making Natsumi raise her brows in surprise.
"That sounds rough" Natsumi commented. "Parents sure know how to embarrass their kids" she sated thinking back to how both her mother and Mikoto pulled out baby pictures of her and Sasuke.
Then her face lit ablaze as she thought back to Fugaku's earlier talk.
"I really wouldn't know since I don't have any" Sai stated abruptly pulling Natsumi out of her thoughts.
"H-hi what can I get you today?" a cautious theater employee cut in awkwardly as Sai and Natsumi looked to them before moving up to order.
After this the teens made their way to catch up with Ino who sat waiting with her arms crossed over her chest. Making their way over to her, Sakura sat beside her with Naruto next to her on the end while Sai took the other seat beside Ino with Natsumi sitting beside him. Throughout the movie the teens passed around various snacks to one another with Ino declining each time. By the end of the movie Naruto asked for a candy Natsumi had which was being passed to him before Ino snapped.
"Do you guys have any idea how annoying that was during the whole movie?!" the blonde asked bringing silence to the group.
"Calm down Ino" Sakura said in a calming voice.
"Shut up Sakura!" Ino snapped at the pink haired girl.
"Hey don't say that to Sakura" Naruto interjected, suddenly catching Ino's attention.
"Oh and what would you know Naruto? What do you think you'll get out of sticking up for her?!" Ino asked harshly. "She doesn't like you and she's never going to so stop trying to act like her hero!" Ino went on.
Natsumi noticed as other occupants of the crowd turned to look back at the group of teens with wide eyes before hastily exiting the theater.
'Oh boy' Natsumi thought.
"Ino I don't want to fight with you" Naruto said before being cut off by the blonde again.
"It won't be much of a fight Naruto, face it you can act like a hero all you want but you'll always be an annoying loser compared to Sasuke" Ino shot back.
Silence befell the teens after this, until Natsumi finally decided that she had had enough of the blonde's ranting.
"Where do you get off on talking to Naruto like that?" Natsumi asked in disbelief as Ino turned to face her.
"Oh and you're going to criticize me? Don't think you have much room to speak just because you're friends with Sasuke" Ino said folding her arms over her chest.
"No one even brought Sasuke up" Natsumi replied making the blonde frown.
"You know what I mean!" she yelled back. "You think you're so perfect just because you hang out with him, but what makes it worst is you did it without even trying while some of us have been trying our whole lives" Ino said angrily.
"What does that have to do with anything?" Natsumi asked bluntly as Ino grew silent. "I'm just trying to stick up for Naruto because he's my friend and last I checked he was yours too!" Natsumi said in an annoyed tone.
"Friends? Are you sure that's what it's called? You don't even hangout with any of us unless Naruto or Sasuke are going to be there" Ino stated.
"Ino" Sakura said in a warning tone.
"You're all a bunch of losers" Ino exclaimed. "It's not fair that you all get to have a perfect Homecoming while I can't" Ino said before storming out.
The group suddenly became silent as Ino left the theater.
"I'll go check on her" Sakura stated rushing after the blonde.
"Hey Natsumi" Naruto suddenly said catching the girl's attention. "Thanks" he said earning a nod from the girl.
"Yes thank you Natsumi" Sai then said, making Natsumi give him a confused look.
"Why are you saying 'thank you'?" Naruto asked curiously.
"For sticking up for my friend" Sai replied with a smile.
"You know you could have stood up for me" Naruto said narrowing his eyes at the pale boy.
"When it comes to Ino and Sakura, I'm sure someone else can" Sai replied.
"What's that supposed to mean?!" Naruto asked standing and then shaking Sai by the collar of his shirt.
"Women are terrifyingly complex" Sai replied simply as Naruto continued to shake him.
'At least he knows that much' Natsumi thought sweat dropping at the sight.
After a while Sakura returned with Ino, informing the boys that the pair would be walking home to blow off some steam which Naruto reluctantly agreed to. After the girls made their way a distance, Sai offered to trail behind them to ensure they were home safely, leaving Naruto with Natsumi.
"Some night" Naruto stated as he and Natsumi entered his car.
"Hn" Natsumi replied with a nod as the blonde turned on the car while they buckled their seat belts.
'And to think it's not even Homecoming yet' Natsumi thought as she and Naruto exited the parking lot to begin heading home.
...
The next two days were rather uneventful for Natsumi. She was pleased that Thursday and Friday passed without incident or better yet more drama. As exited the school, she was surprised when her hand was pulled back, bringing her to a halt as she stood facing Kabuto.
"Kabuto" Natsumi exclaimed in surprise as she looked over the silver haired boy with eyes of surprise.
"Hello Natsumi" he greeted her with a smile before releasing her hand. "Are you busy?" he asked curiously.
"Well I'm supposed to pick up Sasuke's boutonniere then I was hoping to get a couple hours of napping in before I have to get ready for tonight" Natsumi replied.
Kabuto simply nodded at this before placing a hand under his chin in thought.
"Oh what a shame, I was hoping you could help me with a little task Orochimaru asked me to do" he said scratching the back of his head. "It would just take a second, I just needed you to help me with making some copies" he said making a confused look cross Natsumi's face.
'Making copies? Kabuto has been doing that longer than I have so why would he need my help?' Natsumi thought wearily.
"Oh I'm sorry Kabuto but I really can't be late for getting it" she said awkwardly taking a step back.
"It's no problem Natsumi, I should've known you'd be busy since it is Homecoming" he said giving her a smile. "But that reminds me, I'll be there tonight so I'll see you there" he said further surprising the dark haired teen.
"Really?" Natsumi asked curiously.
"Yeah Orochimaru won't be able to chaperone the entire time so I'll be there to take over the rest of his shift when he leaves" Kabuto explained as Natsumi's eyes lit up in realization.
"Hn" she replied with a nod.
"But since we'll both be there maybe you can save me a dance?" he asked giving the girl a hopeful smile.
"Um" Natsumi began awkwardly before she was suddenly pulled away by the arm.
Turning to the source, she was for once thankful to see Sasuke leading her away.
"What are you doing standing around for? We need to pick up the flowers then head to your house" he said in an annoyed tone as he continued to pull her.
"I'll see you later Kabuto" she called over her shoulder before rushing to match Sasuke's speed as he moved his hold down to her wrist.
"You really have no sense of time" Sasuke criticized pulling her to the parking lot and pushing her into his car.
"You know you didn't need to give me a ride and what did you mean we have to head to my house?" Natsumi asked as she buckled her seat belt.
"Mom doesn't want you walking from your house with an overnight bag" Sasuke replied simply as he entered and began putting on his belt before starting his car and exiting the lot.
When the pair arrived at the flower shop, Sasuke released an annoyed sigh as he put the car in park.
"What's wrong with you?" Natsumi asked as the Uchiha put his head on the steering wheel dramatically.
"I don't want to go in" Sasuke exclaimed still in his slouched over position.
"Why? Don't want to see the co-president of your fan club?" Natsumi asked sarcastically, earning a glare from Sasuke. "Ok drama, I'll get them but you owe me" she said holding up her hands in defeat as she opened the door and exited the car.
Upon entering the flower shop, Natsumi was met with the pleasant scent of roses and the sight of a bored looking Ino beside her smiling mother behind the counter.
"Hello" Ino's mother greeted Natsumi as she entered. "Ino say hi" the woman said nudging her daughter who rolled her eyes as she took in Natsumi's presence.
"Hi" Ino said flatly, making her mother scoff.
"You know with that attitude, why don't you make yourself busy with tossing the trashes in the back" Ino's mother said pointing her daughter to the back.
Ino gave a huff before disappearing to the back as Natsumi approached the counter.
"I'm sorry about her, she's just a little upset over her Homecoming dress" the woman explained earning a simple nod from Natsumi before she continued on. "I just wish she would see things my way" Ino's mother said after releasing a heavy sigh, as Natsumi gave her a confused look. "Her father and I just wanted her to wear something that wasn't so revealing" the woman went on.
'I didn't ask' Natsumi thought awkwardly as she watched Ino's mother continue to rant on before pulling out her phone and opening up a picture that she shoved in Natsumi's face.
"Maybe we're overreacting but would you wear something like this?" Ino's mother asked.
Natsumi blinked as she took in the image of Ino wearing a sparkly pink holographic fitted dress. The blonde teen smiled confidently at the camera as she posed with one hand on her hip and the other holding up a peace sign to her mother. Ino's mother then swiped to the next picture, showing Ino with her back to the camera as she looked over her shoulder, revealing that her dress was backless and dipped low.
"It's one thing for her to want to wear a dress like that, but she also has a date" Ino's mother said pulling back her phone as she looked at the pictures with furrowed brows. "Usually she always went in a group with Shikamaru and Choji but it seems like she's done so much growing up this year since she wants to wear this and go with another boy" she continued to complain.
Natsumi gave the woman a weary look as she ranted, feeling awkward being the one having to listen to her.
"No" Natsumi suddenly replied, catching the woman by surprise as she looked back to the teen in front of her with a confused expression.
"I'm sorry I don't follow" the woman apologized.
"Personally I wouldn't wear a dress like that" Natsumi replied simply, making the woman's brows raise.
"See!" the woman exclaimed. "I'm not being unreasonable" she continued.
"Then again that's only because I'm not as confident as Ino to pull something like that off" Natsumi said surprising the woman again. "Ino is probably one of the only girls I know who can wear something like that without it being distasteful and that confidence isn't something that she picked upon her own, it had to be instilled through a strong woman in her life" Natsumi said further surprising the woman with the compliment.
"Ok but the boy" the woman said in concern.
Natsumi couldn't help the smile that crossed her face at the thought of Sai making Ino's parents nervous.
"Sai is a nice guy ... not exactly the best with social cues and sometimes it takes a little force to keep him from sticking his foot in his mouth but he's a good person none the less" Natsumi explained. "In all honesty he'll probably offend Ino a lot throughout the night since he's not like most guys. Like when he first sees her, she'll ask what he thinks and then he'll probably take it literally and ask her about everything that confuses him" Natsumi went on with a smile as she imagined the scenario playing out.
Ino's mother felt a bit at ease after hearing this, but couldn't help the uneasiness at the back of her mind.
"You're still worried?" Natsumi asked noticing the distant look on the woman's face. "You can't really be told to not worry because it's completely natural. My mother would probably be the same way if I had an actual date. And I really don't know if there's anything I can do to put your mind to rest, especially since I'm just a kid myself" Natsumi admitted before her phone suddenly began ringing.
Pulling out her device her brows creased seeing Sasuke's name lighting up her screen, as she remembered that the Uchiha was still waiting outside for her.
'Oh crap this is taking a lot longer than it should have' Natsumi thought ignoring the call and turning back to face Ino's mother.
"I'm sorry it's really not my place to speak on the matter" Natsumi apologized bowing to the woman quickly before rising. "I was just supposed to be picking up my order" Natsumi said with an awkward smile.
"Oh of course, there's no need to apologize dear, I shouldn't have spent so much time talking" Ino's mother said pulled out a clipboard. "What's the name on the order?" she asked.
Natsumi thought for a moment.
"Um I think it's under Natsumi" the dark haired teen replied.
"We don't have that name listed" the woman said after looking over her list and flipping to the next page. "Do you remember who took down the purchase?" she asked as Natsumi's eyes lit up.
"Oh yes" the teen replied. "I think his name was Inoichi. The tall man with the long blonde hair" Natsumi stated.
"Oh my husband helped you?" the woman asked earning a nod from the teen girl. "I hope he did an alright job" the woman replied nervously as her eyes scanned the list again. "Is there another name the order could be under?" the woman asked.
Natsumi released a deep breath as she furrowed her brows in thought.
"Um maybe Uchiha" Natsumi replied wearily.
"Oh yes a corsage and boutonniere!" Ino's mother exclaimed checking off the name on the list.
She then reached behind the counter, setting two clear plastic containers on top, containing Sasuke's boutonniere and Natsumi's corsage before a confused look crossed her face.
"Are you attending Homecoming with Sasuke Uchiha?" Ino's mother asked raising a brow in question.
Natsumi simply nodded as she began picking up the two containers from the counter.
"You're not the girl I delivered the five dozen roses to at Konoha High" Ino's mother stated wearily, making Natsumi stiffen.
"Well that's kind of a long story, but I should really be going ... um have a nice day" Natsumi said awkwardly before rushing out the door.
"Odd" Ino's mother said after Natsumi left. "Ino you can come out now, I know you've been listening" she called out.
Nervously the blonde stepped out.
"You heard what you're friend had to say?" her mother asked as Ino rolled her eyes. "You can wear the dress and go with that Sai boy" her mother then said surprising the teen that looked at her with bewildered eyes.
"What?" Ino asked taken aback by her mother's statement.
"I'll talk to your father" the woman stated simply as Ino stared at her in shock. "Now get back to work, you still have a job to do before you start getting ready for tonight" the woman said snapping Ino out of her daze as she walked past her.
'Natsumi sure is something else' Ino thought as she rushed to the counter as other customers entered.
...
Natsumi wasn't surprised when Sasuke yelled at her about how long she took in the flower shop, but it was nothing she hadn't expected. After the boy finished berating her on her lack of time management skills he promptly drove the pair to Natsumi's house, where she quickly packed an overnight bag. Then the pair headed to the Uchiha residence, where they were able to work on their homework, have an early dinner, and unfortunately for Natsumi have to skip the nap she wanted she Mikoto could began prepping her to get ready.
Natsumi took a quick shower, wore a face mask, and had her hair fixed before being ushered to Mikoto's room to have her makeup done in the woman's bathroom.
'As much as I appreciate all the effort she's putting in, I can't help but think about the nap I missed' the teen thought as Mikoto happily worked on her face. Natsumi wasn't sure how much time had passed but when Mikoto suddenly pulled her up and pushed her in front of a mirror, she was able to see the final product.
Staring into the mirror in front of her, Natsumi was unsure of what to say. She currently sat in front of a large mirror in Mikoto's room wearing a white bath robe while the female Uchiha stood behind her proudly after doing her hair and makeup. Her brown eyes blinked at her reflection as she processed how she looked. Her dark black hair had been straightened with a flat iron that left it silky smooth to the touch and was pulled into a half pony tail to better display the silver earrings she wore. Her makeup was natural for the most part, leaving the girl with a dewy glow and youthful blush. Her eyes were probably the most prominent part of the look as the neutral eye shadow colors did well to brighten and bring attention to her brown orbs with a winged eye liner that perfectly defined her eyes. She wore a natural toned lip stick that seemed to match perfectly to her natural lip color.
"You look beautiful" Mikoto commented squeezing the girl's shoulders tightly as Natsumi stared at her reflection.
"Thank you Mikoto" Natsumi said after a while, letting the gaze of her brown eyes shift to the woman. "I don't know how I would've managed anything near this perfect without you" Natsumi admitted with a light smile, which made the woman laugh.
"You say that like I had a lot to do" Mikoto said with a kind smile before stepping back from the teen girl and making her way to where the girl's dress hung on the door. "Are you ready for the dress?" she asked with excitement evident in her voice as Natsumi offered her a smile and nod.
...
Meanwhile Sasuke finished tying his navy blue neck tie, taking a moment to look at his reflection, he simply shrugged as he was used to dressing up thanks to his father's many functions. The Uchiha wore a pair of black dress shoes with a pair of black pants with a white button up, a grey vest overtop and the blue tie. Sasuke walked through his room, grabbing his keys and wallet before stepping out into the hallway. Immediately he was met with the sound of another presence.
"Sasuke" Itachi said. "You look nice" he complimented as Sasuke looked up to see him making his way to the staircase.
Itachi wore an all-black suit with a black undershirt and no tie.
"Itachi" Sasuke said in acknowledgment of his brother's presence. "Why are you dressed up?" he asked raising a brow curiously.
"Yahiko thought it would be cool if we all wore black for our first performance" Itachi explained.
"Hn" Sasuke replied looking to his phone in disinterest.
"Well I'm going to head over now to start setting up and run a sound check" Itachi said continuing to the staircase. "I'll see you and Natsumi there" he called over his shoulder, as Sasuke gave no reply.
Sasuke read over a few new texts from Naruto on the group's plan to grab a bite afterwards. The teen simply rolled his eyes at the thought of subjecting himself to further annoyance in the presence of the others, especially Sakura and Ino. Placing his device back in his pocket, Sasuke turned to begin making his way down the stairs.
'I just hope we can get this thing over with soon enough' Sasuke thought walking down the staircase.
As he waited at the bottom of the staircase, Sasuke scrolled through his phone's contents before hearing his mother excitedly make her way down the stairs with a camera before turning to start taking pictures as Natsumi began to descend.
Natsumi wore a navy blue dress that had tulle sleeves hanging off her shoulders, while the silhouette hugged her tightly from the top to her hips before flaring out in more tulle and reaching just above her knees. Her hair that she normally let hang was tied partially back and she also had on a pair of silver heels.
"Oh this is so exciting!" Mikoto exclaimed as she took more pictures.
When Natsumi reached the bottom, the woman pointed her son to stand beside her, much to his annoyance, but never the less he complied. Sasuke stuck his hands in his pockets as he made his way over.
"What do you know, you could actually look halfway decent" Sasuke exclaimed earning a glare from Natsumi.
"Too bad you could almost pass for a gentleman until you open your mouth" Natsumi retorted making the boy scoff.
"Come on you two, I need smiles for these pictures" Mikoto cut into their snide comments.
The two teens complied giving the woman smiles that she happily took pictures of until requesting them to pose differently. Natsumi was instructed to climb the stairs again, only this time making eye contact with Sasuke who would wait for her at the bottom with a hand held out to her. Then they were to have pictures taken separately before having an array of them standing beside one another before ending with Natsumi taking hold of Sasuke's arm.
"Mom we have to go" Sasuke suddenly said as he felt they had been taking pictures forever. "You have enough pictures" he went on as his mother placed her camera down before making her way over to grab him both him and Natsumi by the arm.
"Sasuke honey I need one with your arm around Natsumi for your father and Itachi to see!" she exclaimed.
'Itachi?' Natsumi thought before suddenly finding herself pushed into Sasuke while Mikoto set his hand on her waist.
"Ok now look at each other and smile" she instructed as the teens both gave annoyed huffs.
"This is so stupid" Sasuke mumbled looking down to Natsumi.
"Hn" the girl replied in agreement.
"At least I don't have to crane my neck too much when I look down at you though, but even with heels you're still short" he commented, making Natsumi open her mouth her shock while he smirked at her.
"That's perfect!" Mikoto suddenly exclaimed taking a few pictures before rushing over and turning Natsumi around to face away from Sasuke and placing his hands around her before setting her arms atop.
This went on for a while before she rushed to grab the corsage and boutonniere to take pictures of the teens putting them on each other. The teens smiled for her pictures, while inwardly hiding their disdain at the poses and pictures. By the end Mikoto was satisfied with the many pictures she had taken while Natsumi and Sasuke quickly exited after the woman told them to have fun and make sure to get pictures taken.
"That was awful" Natsumi said as she put on her belt with a dead look in her eyes.
"Hn" Sasuke said for once agreeing with her.
...
Upon arriving at the school, Sasuke and Natsumi shared a look which silently agreed to not speak of the events of earlier. Exiting the car, the pair made their way to the gym, where their tickets were admitted by Kakashi-sensei and Gai-sensei.
"You two look nice" Kakashi complimented the teens as they approached the table he was seated behind.
"Thank you sensei" Natsumi said smiling to the man before being nudged by Sasuke.
Turning to look at the boy, she saw him give her a knowing smirk that made her narrow her gaze at him, before her attention was caught by Gai-sensei.
"Looking very sharp indeed" Gai said cutting in. "But I just wanted to remind you kids that we have a zero tolerance policy for inappropriate behavior so make sure there is enough space when dancing and remember to have fun" the eccentric teacher said giving the pair a thumb up before they entered. "I remember in my youthful days we used to –" Guy started before being cut off by Kakashi.
"They already went in Gai" the silver haired teacher stated making Gai-sensei do an anime fall. "I guess your student takes after you in terms of acting cool" he said looking to Kakashi for a response and seeing him gone as well.
"Oh you weren't done talking?" Kakashi asked sticking his head through the doorway of the gym. "I thought all the students who are coming might be here so I'll monitor them inside while you wait for any others alright?" he asked as Gai did another anime fall.
Meanwhile Sasuke and Natsumi entered the doorway and walked through a walkway made up of white wooden posts and many strings of lights. When they came to the end of the walkway they looked around to see the darkened gym lit up with a variety of hanging lanterns and decorated with many streamers. The dance floor was packed with students while off to the side was an area with several round tables covered with white table clothes and white chairs with ribbons tied around the base. At the center of these tables were tall glass vases filled with clear stones and a small fake flower. Past this on the far side was a door propped open to reveal lights, which is where the students would go for pictures. Looking around Natsumi was in awe of the liveliness as the loud music boomed and that was when she turned to see the source, causing her brown orbs to light up with surprise.
"Thank you Konoha High!" an all too familiar orange haired boy said into a mic. "We are the Akatsuki!" he said motioning to his other band mates as the crowd cheered.
On the small stage in front of the dance floor, were two large speakers on either side. Yahiko stood at the center stage in front of his mic stand with the other members set up around him like in rehearsal. They were all dressed in black suits with the exception of Hidan, Zetsu, Nagato, and Kisame who wore black pants with black t-shirts and black bomber jackets.
'Wow they really improved' Natsumi thought as she watched them play, every now and then looking up to flash smiles to the audience as they continued on playing with no disruptions.
"Hey Natsumi!" Kiba suddenly said popping up in front of the girl.
The brown haired boy wore black shoes, black pants, a white button up without a tie and a black jacket.
"Hey Kiba" Natsumi greeted the boy back.
His eyes wondered over her as a smile grew on his face and he leaned into her ear.
"You look great" he complimented her, earning a blush as she stepped back due to his proximity.
"Thanks you too!" she called back giving him an awkward smile.
"Do you want to dance?" he asked loudly holding a hand out to the girl.
Natsumi contemplated accepting his offer, slowly reaching for his hand before she was suddenly pulled back. Looking up, she saw Sasuke had been the one to grab her by the back of her other arm before swinging an arm over her shoulders.
"Let's get the pictures out of the way for my mom first" he said earning a nod from Natsumi before she turned back to see Kiba staring daggers at the Uchiha.
"Hey we have to get our pictures done really quick but I'll be right back" Natsumi said offering Kiba a reassuring smile that made him sigh before giving her a smirk and nodding in reply.
Natsumi and Sasuke turned to start making their way to the picture area before being stopped by another loud voice.
"You guys are getting pictures now?!" Naruto called suddenly rushing toward the pair from the crowd of students.
The blonde wore a black button up with a red bow tie and black pants and shoes.
"Yeah my mom wants them done" Sasuke replied as Naruto came to a halt in front of the pair.
"Oh great!" the blonde exclaimed making Sasuke raise a brow in question. "We can all get some group shots in too!" he said excitedly. "I'll go find everyone!" Naruto said before rushing off from the pair of dark haired teens.
"Uh now what?" Natsumi asked curiously looking to Sasuke who now pinched the bridge of his nose in annoyance.
"Let's just get ours over with before the other idiots come" he replied before turning to walk that way.
Natsumi rolled her eyes at his response before smiling at the blonde's antics and then rushing to follow behind the Uchiha.
'Certainly seems like tonight is gonna be an interesting one' Natsumi thought as she rushed to catch up with Sasuke.
Natsumi had no idea.
...
A/N: And that is the chapter lol. I know I said this would be the Homecoming chapter and it would be super long because the descriptions of all the dresses and such but there was no way to make that happen considering all the things that also needed to happen in this chapter. For example the whole talk Sasuke and Natsumi had to have with Fugaku since I felt that even though it was awkward, it the thing a concerned parent would do. Also this chapter kind of focused on Ino to give a bit more drama to her character and the dynamic between her and her family. Another thing that I thought was necessary was to include not only an Itachi scene but one that showed the close friendship between Sasuke and Natsumi. I want to thank all of you for your support in reading and reviewing. I'm not gonna lie, I was reading some of the comments and I almost wanted to cry with how touching the words were. And something else, I thought I would let you guys know that I didn't get to attend my friend's wedding due to all that's going on, but I wasn't just taking a break from writing. I dabble a little in drawing so I was sketching out the pictures of the girls in their Homecoming dresses. I actually had this idea to make an Instagram account to display them for those of you who were interested in seeing them, so let me know lol. Anyways I think that's all for now, I love you all and ask that you continue to read and review because it makes my day reading the comments. Xoxo
