Best Friend's Brother 34

Halloween Part 2

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or any characters used aside from my OC.

Natsumi was captivated by the performance of The Akatsuki. Song after song showcased more and more of the group's improvement since the last rehearsal she walked in on. The Akatsuki played a number of various songs from various bands before surprising the girl with an original song. Natsumi was baffled as she looked at the group as the song drew to a close. Yahiko's eyes lit up in anticipation as he waited for the girl to speak, after not being able to stand the waiting, he spoke.

"How'd you like it?" Yahiko asked with a nervous smile as he looked down at the girl sitting on the couch in front of him.

Natsumi mouth was opened in shock, before a smile crossed her face, that made the boy and his band mates release breaths of relief.

"That was really great" Natsumi replied.

"You don't have to lie; I already told Yahiko that his lyrics were a little odd" Kakuzu cut in making Natsumi's eyes light up in surprise as she turned to the man.

"You only think that because it doesn't say anything about money!" Yahiko said furrowing his brows as Natsumi turned back to him.

Natsumi sweat dropped while the other Akatsuki members shook their heads and sighed,

"Um I actually liked it a lot" Natsumi said regaining Yahiko's attention and making a proud smile cross the boy's face before he turned to high five Konan.

"Hm kids" Kakuzu mumbled as he rolled his eyes. "Regardless of that though it's still not polished enough so they're not going to play it on Halloween" Kakuzu said making Yahiko sigh in disappointment before looking back to Natsumi. "Anyways Natsumi go ahead and tell them the five things that need improvement" he stated making the dark haired teen stiffen as the members turned to her.

Natsumi swallowed a nervous lump in her throat as she shifted her gaze to her lap.

"Um I'm not really sure" Natsumi said playing with the sleeve of her sweater. "You guys have definitely improved on your eye contact and stiffness ... Oh and Yahiko is doing a great job of connecting with the audience too" Natsumi said. "If there's anything I guess it would be your transitions between songs" the teen went on. "It's not that bad but it's really quick so sometimes it seems like it's all one really long song" Natsumi said.

The members of the Akatsuki gave nods of understanding.

"But that's probably only because it's only a rehearsal now" Natsumi said waving her hands in front of her. "Because when you guys played at Homecoming, the transitions between songs were pretty smooth ... a little awkward at the ends but there was still a notable distinction" Natsumi said before noticing the group's attention on Yahiko as he hung his head while gripping the mic stand.

"No it's ok it wasn't that bad" Natsumi said reassuringly, but it was too late as a dark aura radiated from the usually lively orange haired boy.

'Poor guy I didn't think he'd take it to heart so much, especially since the others don't seem too bothered' Natsumi thought as her eyes shifted to the others, seeing each with calm expressions.

"I want four more things" Kakuzu suddenly said pulling Natsumi out of her thoughts as she looked at him with a surprised look. "For now you guys can take five" he said looking at the band who released sighs of relief before starting to exit the stage.

"Hey Kakuzu I think I'm all done with the playlist" Nagato suddenly called over gaining the attention of the older man.

"Good, go ahead and start showing it to the kid" Kakuzu ordered making Natsumi stiffen.

'I really hope that doesn't catch on as a nickname' Natsumi thought as she sweat dropped.

Natsumi took a deep breath as she went about rising from her seat just as Deidara and Yahiko sat beside her. Both boys gave the girl wide smiles, earning a small smile from the teen before she started to make her way to where Nagato sat in a stool in front of his laptop on a small table.

"Hi" Natsumi greeted the red, making him lift his gaze to her as he shyly smiled before getting off the stool and stepping to the side to allow Natsumi to climb on. "Oh you don't have to move I don't mind standing" Natsumi quickly said waving her hands in front of her.

Nagato's eyes lit up in surprise before he simply shook his head and took a step back.

'He's really shy' Natsumi noted before sighing in defeat and taking a seat.

Slowly Nagato reached over to shift the laptop screen so both could see it before setting an earbud down in front of Natsumi and earning a weary look from the girl.

"So how does this work?" Natsumi asked looking to the red headed boy beside her.

Natsumi could tell Nagato wasn't really the most outgoing person. He seemed so shy and quiet but she knew he was a nice guy, but what really perplexed her was how someone so reserved could actually be associated with someone as outspoken as Naruto.

"I'm not really sure how it's supposed to work but if you do listen to all of them we'll be here for a while" Nagato said before noticing her staring at him. He waved a hand in front of Natsumi's face, making her snap out of her thoughts as she realized she was staring at him. "Um is everything alright Natsumi?" the red head asked.

"Oh yeah sorry I was just ... wondering how you knew Naruto" the girl admitted sheepishly as she ran a hand through her dark locks.

A surprised look crossed Nagato's face at this before he looked to the side.

"Oh um we're cousins" Nagato replied making Natsumi's brows raise in alarm. "I know we don't exactly hold any sort of family resemblance but we used to hang out a lot at family reunions that's actually how he met Yahiko since I would bring him sometimes" the red head explained as Natsumi nodded in understanding.

Silence befell the pair.

"I'm sorry that was weird to ask out of now where" Natsumi said breaking the silence as Nagato turned to meet her gaze again.

"It's alright, but back to the playlist" he said looking back to the screen with a critical eye. "I guess you can read the artist names and if you have any questions then I can play you the song" the red head said as she nodded in understanding.

Natsumi watched as he placed a hand under his chin in thought before looking back to her.

Natsumi noticed that although Nagato was very quiet in nature, he was very focused when it came to his work. He was quick to start listing off the artists names and within the time he had played a couple songs that she didn't know. He was very effective and Natsumi had surprised herself with how many she actually knew, but what caught her off guard was when Nagato had listed off BTS.

"Hold on a second" she said gaining the red head's attention after they finished. "I'm sorry but I just I had a quick question" she said earning a nod from the boy. "How did you come up with this list?" the dark haired girl asked.

Nagato took a second to process the girl's question before replying.

"Kakuzu had us all input at least ten songs and artists from genres and groups we didn't plan on doing covers of so that when the band was on break, the venue's we played at could still have an array of music even if we didn't play it" Nagato explained.

"Uh do you know who recommended BTS?" Natsumi asked curiously before looking around, wondering which of the Akatsuki would be a fellow ARMY.

'Maybe it's Konan ... then again it could be Tobi' Natsumi thought looking around before looking back to the red head standing beside her.

"Uh I think it was Itachi" Nagato replied making the girl's eyes widen in shock.

"What?" Natsumi asked in disbelief.

"Yeah I think he said one of his brother's friends liked the group so he thought it might be what some of the others would like" Nagato said making Natsumi look down to her lap to hide the blush that currently crossed her face.

'I'm hundred percent sure that I'm that friend' Natsumi thought before being interrupted by a hand suddenly being placed on her shoulder. Upon turning to the source, her brown eyes lit up seeing Itachi.

"I'm sorry to interrupt but my mother just texted me to say she wanted to eat out tonight but since Sasuke is going to be eating at Naruto's I was wondering if you'd like to come instead" Itachi offered making Natsumi's brows raise in surprise.

"Uh yeah" Natsumi replied hoping her face had returned to a neutral color before earning a simple nod from the Uchiha.

"Don't tell me you're taking the kid now" Kakuzu said walking over with an annoyed look on his face. "Practice hasn't even been dismissed yet" the older man chastised.

"You already know my parent's rules on dinner" Itachi replied making the older man scowl before Yahiko suddenly raised a hand to speak.

"I actually have a history paper to submit before midnight" Yahiko interjected awkwardly smiling as Kakuzu rolled his eyes.

"You kids need to work on your time management" Kakuzu said as the room grew silent. "Alright you're all done for the day after the kid tells you the last four things from her list and you do one more song" he instructed as he turned to Natsumi who swallowed nervously as the eyes of the others shifted to her.

"Well um ... I don't really know what else to say" Natsumi admitted looking to the side.

"It's alright" Itachi said reassuringly, making a guilty look cross the girl's face.

'It's really not since it's the main reason I got to come' Natsumi thought furrowing her brows before releasing a heavy sigh.

"Natsumi what did I say about beating around the bush the last time?" Kakuzu asked gaining the girl's attention as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Tell them" he ordered making the girl stiffen at the harshness of his tone before giving a nod.

"Yahiko's breathing" she said looking back to her lap.

"I told you this already" Kakuzu said making the orange haired boy scratch the back of his neck nervously. "Go on" Kakuzu said turning back to Natsumi.

"I couldn't hear Konan's singing when her and Itachi harmonized with Yahiko" Natsumi stated making the attention of the room shift to the blue haired girl.

"I was lip syncing" Konan admitted grabbing her own arm as she looked to the side.

"Why?" Kakuzu asked.

"I figured the boys had it and no one would notice" the blue haired beauty replied.

"Well someone did. If you can't put you're all in during practices then you aren't going to be your best for live performances." Kakuzu stated making the girl sigh. "Natsumi another" he said.

"No one acknowledges Tobi on stage" Natsumi said making the other band members look down guiltily. "You guys are doing really well with eye contact and staying focused but it's kind of awkward when he's running around and you're all acting like you can't see him" Natsumi elaborated.

"That's because he's annoying" Sasori mumbled earning a snicker from Deidara before they were both silenced by a glare from Kakuzu.

"Last thing" Kakuzu said looking to Natsumi.

The dark haired girl released a sigh before running a hand through her locks.

"Well ... do you practice what you guys are going to say before your breaks?" the teen asked looking up to Yahiko specifically as she remembered him almost naming her at Homecoming until being interrupted by Itachi.

"Uh I kind of just wing it" Yahiko replied honestly.

"Alright then Yahiko you need to start practicing what to say, I don't want a repeat of how awkward you sounded at Homecoming" Kakuzu suddenly said making the orange haired boy sigh. "Natsumi is right, even if she was apprehensive about bringing these things up, they were all things others would catch onto as well so it's better we try to fix them now" he said earning nods of understanding from the group. "Natsumi we'll see you tomorrow right?" Kakuzu suddenly asked catching the girl by surprise.

"Um I-" Natsumi started to answer before being cut off by Kakuzu.

"Give me the flyer Deidara gave you" he ordered as he held a hand out expectantly.

Natsumi blinked in surprise before taking the folded flyer from her pocket and handing it to the man. She watched as he took it and a pen from his pocket before scribbling something on the back.

"When you get there give this to whoever is at the door" he said handing the flyer back to the teen and earning a weary nod before he turned back to the group. "As for the rest of you, last song" he stated in a commanding tone.

"But Kakuzu we finished all the songs from our set" Yahiko said.

"Is that what you're going to say when the crowd wants an encore?" Kakuzu asked giving the young man a hard stare.

"Uh no" Yahiko replied.

"Good" Kakuzu replied as the other band members started toward the stage. "Do a cover of a cover" he said as the Akatsuki took their places.

The members all exchanged looks before Yahiko's face lit up and he proudly spoke into the mic.

"Alright and for this final song we're going to be doing All Time Low's rendition of Umbrella" he said with a smile.

'They really work fast to improve' Natsumi thought as she watched the members play and even playfully interact with Tobi as he darted around the stage. 'And Konan is singing this time too' Natsumi thought as her eyes ran over the blue haired girl before shifting to Yahiko and seeing him trying to conserve his breathing. As the song drew to a close Natsumi smiled as she saw Kakuzu give the group a nod of approval before they all made their way off the stage.

"Hey Kisame, I'm running a little late with my mom, do you think you can lock up?" Itachi asked earning a nod from Kisame who kept his eyes on his phone. "Ready Natsumi?" Itachi asked looking to the teen.

The dark haired girl opened her mouth to reply before jumping in surprise as she felt two arms wrap around her shoulders from behind and bringing her back into someone's chest.

"You don't really have to go now do you un?" Deidara asked allowing Natsumi to somewhat relax as she recognized who grabbed her. "I know instead of going with Itachi, I can take you home if you want" the blonde offered resting his chin on the girl's head.

Natsumi's brows rose in surprise as she looked up to see the playful smile on Deidara's face, but in doing so missing the annoyed look on Sasori's face while Itachi pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed.

"God you are such a creep" Sasori said making Deidara release his hold on Natsumi as he turned to glare at the red head.

"Oh and that's coming from the puppet freak" Deidara retorted making Sasori's glare worsen.

"Come on guys Natsumi doesn't need to see her two senpai's fight like this" Konan said teasingly trying to lighten the mood.

"Yeah she'll probably have enough creeps to deal with tomorrow" Hidan said with a light laugh.

"Hey if she's put up with Deidara and Sasori this far, then she probably doesn't scare easily" Yahiko said folding his hands behind his head as the others laughed.

Natsumi smiled, feeling a sense of relief that she was so easily included with this group as she was slightly worried that her critique would make them dislike her. But Natsumi was quickly pulled from these thoughts as she felt a light tap on her shoulder. As she tuned to the source she saw Itachi nodding toward the exit and earning a nod of understanding before the pair quietly made their way out as the rest of the Akatsuki now began a more heated argument.

...

"Guys calm down!" Yahiko yelled standing between Deidara and Sasori with his hands up to stop the two from coming any closer to one another.

"Yahiko let them go I've got $15 on Sasori" Hidan yelled making an annoyed look cross the orange haired boy's face while Kakuzu perked up in interest of the topic.

"Guys can't we have one peaceful practice?" Konan asked gaining the attention of the group before Sasori scoffed and took a step back.

"Hey where did Natsumi go?" Deidara suddenly asked as the tension in the room dissipated and the others looked around to see the girl as well as Itachi missing.

"They must have slipped out while you and Sasori were arguing" Nagato said.

Deidara released a heavy sigh before hanging his head.

"Did you really think she was going to take you up on your offer?" Sasori asked bluntly from where he stood unscrewing the top from his water.

The room was quiet as Deidara narrowed his eyes at the red head before speaking.

"It's not like it's that hard to picture" Deidara retorted. "After all tomorrow is Halloween so she'd be a lot safer if I was with her" the blonde reasoned earning an eye roll from Sasori as he took a sip from his water.

"I think she would be a lot safer if she wasn't with you" Kisame commented making an irk mark appear on Deidara's head.

"Deidara-senpai can keep Tobi safe from the Halloween pranks!" Tobi suddenly exclaimed jumping onto the blonde's back.

The group laughed as Deidara took two steps forward to rebalance himself as Tobi clung tightly around his neck.

"Damn it Tobi get down!" Deidara yelled.

"But no matter what scary stuff happens Tobi knows he'll be safe once he's in Deidara's arms" Tobi replied hugging the blonde tightly.

Deidara opened his mouth to yell at the masked man before stopping as his blue eyes lit up in realization.

"Safe in my arms" Deidara thought aloud as the other Akatsuki members gave him weary looks.

"I don't have time for this, you kids make sure to be on time when we meet for sound check tomorrow" Kakuzu said turning to leave.

"Uh yeah we'll see you guys tomorrow" Yahiko said as he Nagato and Konan started toward the exit as well.

The next person to move was Zetsu as he stood from his seat and stretched.

"Hey Sasori do you still need a ride to work?" Zetsu asked earning a nod from the red head before the pair started toward the exit.

All that remained was Kisame, Hidan, Deidara, and Tobi. All the remaining members had their eyes trained on the blonde as a large smile crossed his face.

"That's it!" Deidara suddenly exclaimed happily jumping around before shocking everyone with his next words. "Thank you Tobi!" Deidara said making Kisame and Hidan's mouth's drop open in shock.

"Deidara-senpai is actually thanking Tobi?" Tobi asked in shock before being dropped from Deidara's back.

"Hey Hidan you still have that guys number who does the booby trap stuff and could get a hold of a lot of fake blood un?" Deidara asked looking to Hidan who cocked a brow in interest as a smile crossed his face.

"I know a guy but he doesn't do 'fake blood'" Hidan corrected the blonde. "How come?" the white haired man asked.

"Before I answer it's not human blood is it?" Deidara asked wearily.

Hidan laughed before shaking his head.

"Nah it's pig's blood" Hidan replied making Deidara sigh in relief.

"I'm going to scare Natsumi right into my arms" Deidara announced proudly.

Tobi did an anime fall while Kisame and Hidan broke into laughter.

"Wha- Whe- hahaha- How the hell- haha- is that supposed to work?" Hidan asked through his laughter as he slung an arm over Kisame's shoulder to keep himself standing.

Deidara narrowed his eyes at the laughing men before crossing his arms over his chest in annoyance.

"I doubt you fools could try to understand the artistic charisma but I'll try to explain" Deidara said making both stop laughing to give him annoyed looks. "It's much like the way couples go to haunted houses and by the end the girls walk out clutching and willing to do whatever with the guys thanks to all the adrenaline in their systems after being scared" the blonde explained proudly. "If I can get that guy you know to set up the pathway to the venue, she'll be running straight into my arms" Deidara said with a smirk. "It'll be a true work of art" he stated.

Hidan rolled his eyes while Kisame chuckled lightly.

"I-I don't think that's a good idea Deidara-senpai" Tobi interjected in a small voice that made the blonde scoff.

"Oh and what makes you think I care about what you think un?" Deidara asked raising a brow at the masked man.

Tobi flinched at the harshness of the blonde's tones before one of the others spoke.

"Don't you think messing with the pathway could mess up some of the clues for the flyers?" Kisame asked making Deidara stiffen.

"Yeah and don't you think doing that might piss off Itachi if you're trying to steal his brother's girl?" Hidan asked.

"Natsumi isn't dating his brother!" Deidara corrected him angrily.

"Regardless of that, Itachi is going to take your head off if you try to get between them ... especially since he's gotten a lot closer with his brother again" Kisame said making Deidara sigh before a thoughtful look crossed his face.

"Not if his brother and the rest of his friends are distracted by other girls" Deidara said with a smirk.

"So when do you think we should start holding auditions for a new drummer?" Kisame asked looking to Hidan who shrugged.

"Fuck you guys" Deidara said in annoyed tone. "I'm not getting replaced in the Akatsuki and I'm not giving up on my plan for Natsumi" the blonde said before turning to leave as the two males laughed.

'Oh no this isn't good ... If Deidara-senpai does anything to mess up tomorrow everyone is going to be mad at him ... and Tobi can't have them be mad at him because Tobi loves Deidara-senpai ... but Tobi doesn't want Deidara-senpai to do anything to Natsumi because she's such a nice girl' Tobi thought before being pulled from his thoughts as Hidan waved a hand in front of his masked face.

"Hey freak show we want to leave!" Hidan yelled loudly.

"Tobi will protect Natsumi from the scary Halloween things!" Tobi suddenly shouted as he pointed upwards and in turn made Hidan jump back in shock before watching Tobi scurry away.

"Tomorrow's going to be a fucking train wreck" Hidan said shaking his head in annoyance. "Are you planning on telling Itachi?" Hidan asked curiously.

"No" Kisame replied making a shocked look cross Hidan's face. "I think it might be more entertaining to see how it all plays out on its own" he said giving the white haired man one of his shark-like grins before the pair began to make their way out of the basement.

...

The ride to the restaurant was quiet as the pair listened to the music that played from the Uchiha's phone. Natsumi stared out the window seemingly in deep thought while Itachi kept his focus on the road ahead.

"Thank you for coming today" Itachi said breaking the silence between the pair.

Natsumi's brows rose in surprise before she turned to the Uchiha.

"Hn" Natsumi said with a nod before turning her attention back to the window.

When they stopped at a light Itachi noticed the girl nervously glance toward him and open her mouth to speak before closing it as she seemed to be internally debating on what she would say. This made the Uchiha raise a brow in interest before looking back to the light.

"You seem to be struggling to say something" Itachi stated unknowingly making the dark haired teen stiffen.

Natsumi nervously glanced at the Uchiha before a small smile crossed her face.

"I'm sorry I ... I was ... Nagato told me that you recommended BTS for the playlist because of one of your brother's friends" she suddenly said making the boy turn to her with his brows rising in surprise.

It took a moment before Itachi turned forward just as the light turned green and a small smile crossed his face.

"Hn" the Uchiha said with a single nod.

Natsumi looked at him expecting him to say more but there was only silence for a few moments.

"Do you remember the day we went grocery shopping with our mothers?" Itachi suddenly asked breaking the silence as Natsumi turned back to him with attentive eyes.

"Yeah" she replied as the boy kept his eyes on the road ahead.

"Well the shirt you were wearing that day actually gave me the idea" Itachi admitted making Natsumi's face light up.

"A cup of Tae with Suga and a Kookie!" the girl exclaimed with a smile.

Itachi gave a simple nod in reply since he knew that the teen was looking at him. It grew quiet after this, making the Uchiha curiously glance over to see a thoughtful expression on Natsumi's face as she folded her hands together in front of her face.

'She's thinking pretty hard' Itachi thought before Natsumi suddenly shifted her gaze to meet his onyx orbs.

"Um I'm happy I could help" Natsumi said as she looked forward.

"Well you've certainly been more than a big help" Itachi said honestly.

"Really?" Natsumi asked wearily.

Itachi turned to the girl with a small smile before placing a hand atop her head.

"Of course" Itachi said making a small smile creep onto the girl's face before he returned his attention forward again. "If I'm being honest you've been much more than any normal friend ... if it weren't for you I don't think Sasuke and I would be reconciling like we are now" Itachi went on.

Natsumi was quiet as she listened intently, waiting for the boy to go on as they entered the parking lot of the restaurant.

"Forgive me if I'm overstepping a boundary" Itachi said turning to the girl with a serious expression that made her hold her breath. "But you and Sasuke's relationship reminds me a lot of one I had, so in a way I'm hoping that ... it lasts" he said making Natsumi's smile fall. "I'm sorry I know you and Sasuke are only friends but if my brother ever grows up enough he'll see how special you really are and in a way I think that's why I'm being so nice to you ... I want the best for him" Itachi said with a genuine smile before his phone began to ring. "Well it seems mother is growing impatient" Itachi said looking down at his device before exiting the car to open Natsumi's door.

Unbeknownst to him Natsumi felt like her entire world shattered as she stared blankly at her lap.

'He's only been nice to me because of Sasuke ... Did I just get friend zoned without confessing?' Natsumi thought before plastering a fake smile on her face as Itachi opened her door.

...

The events of her discussion with Itachi weighed heavily on Natsumi's mind as she walked along the empty morning streets.

'I didn't think it was even possible to get friend-zoned without confessing but I did ...I know I shouldn't let it bother me so much especially since I said I would try to stop liking him, but I feel like I just got punched in the gut ... I really hate this, when did I get so dramatic?' Natsumi thought shutting her eyes and releasing a deep breath of frustration.

Walking toward campus, Natsumi tried to clear the thoughts of the older Uchiha.

'With how much I've been thinking about all of this, I'm surprised that I remembered to dress up for today' Natsumi thought as she shifted her bag on her shoulder and looked down to the witch costume she wore.

Natsumi wore a black dress. It was plain and simple with a neck line that wasn't too high and not too low. It was fitted at the top, hugging her tightly until flaring out at her waist and stopping just above her knee. The sleeves of the dress were long and flared out at the ends. She also wore black thigh high socks with black flats and a plain black witch hat.

"Why did I let Temari pick this ... I look like an idiot" Natsumi thought aloud as she arrived to the front of her school and released a heavy sigh while crossing her arms over her chest.

"I didn't take you as the self-deprecating type, I think you look nice" a voice said casually.

"That's a lie" Natsumi said not bothering to turn to the source as she immediately recognized the voice as Kakashi-sensei.

"Come on Natsumi I don't lie" Kakashi said making the girl scoff. "Mislead maybe and even manipulate sometimes but I'm not one to lie" the man went on, making Natsumi huff to stop from laughing before turning to him. "Besides I'm sure out of us two, your costume probably needs the least bit of explanation" the silver haired man said as Natsumi's brows rose in alarm.

"Kakashi-sensei, wh-what are you?" Natsumi asked turning her head to the side curiously.

Kakashi wore a dark blue headband that had the school symbol over a medal plate. The headband was worn at a tilted angle to cover the man's scarred eye. Instead of his usual medical mask, Kakashi wore a dark blue cloth face mask that covered him from his nose to his neck. He had on a green vest with a dark blue long sleeve underneath that had the sleeves rolled back and a pair of matching pants with a white bandage and pack attached to his right leg.

"Oh I guess you wouldn't really recognize it huh?" Kakashi asked earning a head shake from the girl. "Well in basic terms I'm a ninja" Kakashi said making a confused look cross Natsumi's face.

"I've never seen this kind of ninja costume before" Natsumi said earning a light chuckle from the silver haired man.

"Well you'll probably hear more about this in your history class but I'll go ahead and explain it anyways" Kakashi said. "Konoha was originally formed as a hidden village of ninjas. Over the years of war and finally peace, the profession was not needed and the village adapted with the times." Kakashi explained.

"Wow that's really cool" Natsumi said. "I didn't take you one for one to do such a historical costume though ... but if I'm being honest I didn't really see you dressing up at all" Natsumi admitted.

"It wasn't actually my choice" Kakashi said making Natsumi give him a weary look. "Principal Tsunade was pretty adamant about all of the staff dressing up so we held a drawing to see who would pick the costumes we wore" Kakashi explained.

"Oh who won?" Natsumi asked curiously.

"Asuma-sensei" Kakashi said.

"Hn" Natsumi replied with a nod of understanding. "He must have put a lot of thought into it" Natsumi said placing a thoughtful hand under her chin.

"It was more or less a last minute decision I think" Kakashi said suddenly pulling out his book as Natsumi sweat dropped. "Regardless of that though I'm sure he'll use the opportunity to include it into his lesson today" Kakashi said. "Now that I think about it, I'm sure all the other teachers are using it too" Kakashi thought aloud.

"Aren't you?" Natsumi asked.

Yet before Kakashi could reply the attention of the pair was caught by the sound of someone loudly clearing their throat. Turning to the source Natsumi's eyes lit up in alarm as she saw Sasuke standing behind her and Kakashi.

"Oh Sasuke you dressed up this is a surprise" Kakashi said breaking the silence and pulling Natsumi out of her shock.

The Uchiha wore a vampire costume. It had a white button up with a white cravat and black pants with a black cape that had a red lining on the inside, as well as a pair of fangs.

"What?" Sasuke asked walking up to the pair.

"Who are you?" Natsumi asked making the Uchiha narrow his eyes at her in annoyance. "You look just like my friend Sasuke" Natsumi said sarcastically, making an irk mark appear on the boy's forehead.

"The dobe dropped off this stupid costume with my mom and she made me dress up" Sasuke said in an annoyed tone.

Natsumi kept a hand over her mouth to stifle her giggles while Kakashi laughed lightly at the antics of the pair.

"So your boyfriend was nice enough to pick your outfit?" Natsumi asked teasingly.

"The dobe isn't my boyfriend!" Sasuke retorted as Natsumi laughed even harder.

"You two certainly are entertaining, but you might want to hurry this fight along or you might be late" Kakashi cut in making both dark haired teens look at the silver haired man with blank expressions.

'Like he's planning on being on time' Natsumi thought before Kakashi waved to the pair and turned to head into the building.

"We could always say we got lost on the path of life" Natsumi said sarcastically as she watched Kakashi leave while Sasuke scoffed.

"Coming from the girl who has a thing for him" Sasuke said making Natsumi stiffen before turning back to Sasuke with an alarmed look.

"At least the guys I like aren't idiots!" Natsumi retorted.

"What's that supposed to mean?! I don't like guys ... also last I checked he's the only guy you've liked!" Sasuke shot back.

"Well at least Naruto doesn't pick out my clothes!" Natsumi argued.

"Didn't Temari scare you into wearing your costume?!" Sasuke asked rhetorically.

The two continued to go back and forth for a while, certainly confirming Kakashi's statement about them being entertaining, especially to the students that walked past them to enter the building.

...

Walking into her first hour with Sasuke, Natsumi wasn't surprised when she was pushed to the side as the Uchiha's fan girls swarmed around him as they noted his costume.

"Sasuke you look so cool!" one of them commented.

"Hey Sasuke you have the best costume!" another girl shouted, making Natsumi roll her eyes.

The majority of the pair's classes followed this routine until the teachers would break up the gathering of girls.

'I thought his fan girls were annoying on a regular day, but with it being Halloween it's like their on a whole other level ... then again I have to admit that the teachers do look cooler than usual since their dressed as ninjas when they get the groups to disburse' Natsumi thought after watching Orochimaru send Karin and a few other girls away.

"They're so annoying" Sasuke complained as he settled into his seat beside Natsumi.

"You just read my mind" Natsumi said with a small smile, only to earn an annoyed look from the Uchiha.

The pair worked in silence for the rest of the period as they were given a short lecture before being handed a pop quiz. By the time class ended Natsumi noticed that Sasuke opted for walking out with her as the pair usually did and instead made a b-line for the door in an attempt to avoid his hordes of fan girls. This made Natsumi laugh lightly before making her way to the library as Kakashi-sensei had informed her that he wouldn't need her for an aide that day.

'On the bright side I can use this time to finish my science homework' Natsumi thought as she sat down at an empty table in the library.

The dark haired teen, removed her hat from her head before opening her bag and taking out her textbook, but upon doing so, allowing a folded up sheet to fall out as well. Picking it up and unfolding it, Natsumi's eyes lit up as she realized it was the flyer for the Akatsuki's Halloween performance.

'I almost forgot about this, I was focused on my conversation with Itachi that their performance almost slipped my mind ... I know Kakuzu and the others are expecting me, but I'm not too sure if I can go ... after all I'm supposed to be hanging out with my friends even if we haven't decided on what we're doing and I don't think I could go alone' Natsumi thought staring at the sheet with her brows furrowed. 'I guess I could bring it up with the others at lunch and I'll see what happens' Natsumi thought before stuffing the flyer into the pocket of her dress and focusing her attention on the text book in front of her.

By the time the period ended, Natsumi had completed both her science and history homework before making her way to her locker to drop off her bag. As she shut her locker door she was surprised to see Kiba rushing over to her.

"Hey Natsumi" the brunette greeted the girl with a smile.

The boy was a werewolf. He had on a torn blue flannel that had strategically placed claw marks and dirt. He also wore a pair of faded blue jeans that had dirt on them and an old pair of shoes. She also noted how Kiba's usual canines seemed even longer than usual to add to the effect.

"Kiba wow you're a werewolf" Natsumi said looking over the boy.

"Oh do you like it?" the boy asked confidently as he smirked at the girl and earned a nod. "Well you're not half bad looking yourself" Kiba commented motioning to Natsumi's costume.

"Temari has good taste" Natsumi said dismissively as she shrugged her shoulders and the pair started toward the cafeteria.

"I'm glad you like it but I think your costume really put a spell on me" Kiba said before a scoff was heard behind the pair.

Turning around, Natsumi and Kiba saw Shino walking behind them wearing a long hooded black robe while carrying a scythe.

"Perhaps if I was the real Grim Reaper I could kill any chance of you saying something so awful again" Shino went on making Kiba blanch as Natsumi brought a hand to her mouth to stop herself from laughing.

"Shino you look great" Natsumi said after calming her laughter and earning an appreciative nod from the boy as he turned to walk alongside her and Kiba.

"If he intended to look like such a creep" Kiba mumbled under his breath as he folded his hands behind his head and looked to the side as Shino shot a glare at him.

Natsumi shook her head at the antics of the pair before catching sight of a certain Hyuga. Hinata was an angel. She wore a white dress with long sleeves and angel wings.

"Hey Hinata" Natsumi called gaining the girl's attention. "You look so pretty" Natsumi complimented the girl as she and the boys approached the girl, making a faint blush cross her cheeks.

"Oh thank you" Hinata said with a grateful smile. "I was worried it was a bit too much" Hinata admitted looking to the ground as she fiddled with her hands.

"None sense Lady Hinata, you are a vision especially compared to how indecent some girls are dressed today" Neji said suddenly walking up to the group.

Neji wore a white karate GI with a black belt and a white head band that had a black flower on the front.

"Brother Neji, I-I just didn't want to stick out too much ... and aside from that not all the girls are dressed indecently, like Natsumi" Hinata said motioning to her dark haired friend, who silently stared at her costume, trying to figure if she actually fell into the category of 'indecent'.

'I mean I don't look as bad as some of the girls but I guess the thigh high socks are pushing it a little ... it's funny how covering more seems to expose more' Natsumi thought staring downwards until feeling an arms being brought around her shoulders.

"Yeah I think Natsumi looks pretty hot" Kiba said making Shino shake his head as Natsumi pushed off Kiba's arm.

"At least your costume isn't earning you such distasteful comments" Neji said looking back to Hinata.

"Well at least we aren't wearing pajamas" Kiba shot back making Neji stiffen before shifting his gaze back to the brunette.

"It's a GI!" Neji retorted. "For Karate" the Hyuga clarified.

Kiba wore a blank expression and after looking around to the other teens, Neji released a heavy sigh before crossing his arms over his chest.

"You really mean to tell me, that none of you have bothered watching the classic Karate Kid?" Neji asked in disbelief.

It was quiet for a moment.

"Oh with Jackie Chan?" Kiba asked breaking the silence as his eyes lit up and Neji had a brow twitch in annoyance.

"No you fool, that was the remake" Neji replied making a confused look cross Kiba's face until Shino spoke.

"He means the 80's movie" Shino stated. "But I haven't seen it" Shino said quietly.

Kiba's eyes lit up and his mouth opened in realization.

"Oh" Kiba exclaimed. "I haven't seen it either" the boy said making Neji face palm, until Natsumi released a deep breath and gained the attention of the group.

"He's dressed as the original Karate Kid, Daniel LaRusso" Natsumi said earning an appreciative nod from Neji as the others took this in before nodding in understanding.

"At least one of you has taste" Neji said releasing a sigh as he looked over Natsumi.

'Is that a compliment?' Natsumi thought giving the boy a confused look before turning her attention to the cafeteria and having her eyes light up in realization.

"Um I'll catch up with you guys later, I forgot I needed to ask the others something" Natsumi said before rushing off from the group.

"Great job Neji you scared Natsumi off!" Kiba chastised looking to the male Hyuga.

"What? That's preposterous! How would I have done that?" Neji asked taken aback.

"W-well you did say she was dressed indecently" Hinata pointed out quietly making Neji stiffen.

"I wasn't talking about her! I meant the other girls" Neji said trying to defend himself. "I mean you've seen what Sakura and Ino were wearing right?" Neji asked turning to Shino and Kiba for help but only receiving silence.

"It didn't really come off like that so you should probably apologize" Hinata advised making Neji sigh.

"I suppose you're correct" Neji said.

"Or forget about it like everyone does with me" Shino said making the group go silent as they all looked at him with awkward looks.

"Calm down Drama Queen, no one's forgotten about you in a while" Kiba said slinging an arm around Shino's shoulders as the group continued walking. "But what we are forgetting is lunch so let's hurry before I starve to death" Kiba joked earning a small smile from Shino and Hinata while Neji placed a hand under his chin in thought.

...

A/N: Hey guys I am really sorry about missing a couple updates and updating late. I wrote this chapter a while ago but I didn't want my editor looking over it because it didn't feel right. In all honesty it was awful so I worked on it for a while and then worked on it with my editor to have this for you. Anyways lol I hope you all enjoy and are looking forward to all the drama to come in the next chapter. Feel free to let me know your thoughts in the comments and also I'd like to give a big thank you to those of you who are commenting. I love you all for all the support and hope you continue to read and review (PS I have also been working on drawing the Halloween costumes for the Naruto group because I'm a visual learner and I needed to see it to 'Believe it' haha ... so anyways that'll be posted on my Instagram whenever I color it)