Best Friend's Brother 46

Winter Break Part 7

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

Natsumi felt like she was standing on the edge of a cliff as her heart rate accelerated, she swallowed the lump in her throat and nervously clenched her hands into fists, feeling how sweaty they'd become before willing herself to turn and face the source of the voice.

"Izumi" Sasuke said seemingly breaking the trance that his dark haired friend was in as he addressed the source of the voice with a stoic expression.

'Why am I nervous?' Natsumi thought taking a small breath to calm herself.

"I thought that was you Sasuke" the light female voice said as the source neared.

Turning around Natsumi took in the sight of the girl and felt her brows rise in surprise. Immediately she thought back to when Sasuke described the girl and felt a tinge of disappointment at his use of 'nothing special', because Izumi was beautiful. She was around the same height as Natsumi maybe an inch taller. She had long brown hair that flowed down her waist with bangs that swept to the side, gorgeous onyx orbs with long dark lashes, and a fair skin tone. Her outfit was simple but the maturity and grace she radiated made her carry herself as if she were a model displaying a fabulous piece of art. Izumi wore a pair of black leggings, a long purple turtle neck sweater and a pair of short black boots. Her dark eyes lit up as she smiled at Sasuke, taking in his presence with a genuine happiness that surprised Natsumi.

'Sasuke made it sound like Izumi was only nice to him so it would help her with Itachi ... but if that were the case she wouldn't look at him like someone she's actually happy to see' Natsumi mentally noted as she awkwardly stepped aside so she was no longer standing between the pair.

"It is you" Izumi beamed before her gaze shifted to Natsumi and a curious look crossed her face. "Uh hi" Izumi said as she looked over the dark haired teen with a small smile.

"Hi" Natsumi replied stiffening under the older girl's gaze.

"My name is Izumi, and you're?" the brunette introduced herself confidently as she held a hand out for Natsumi to shake.

Natsumi quickly wiped her hand on her side before reaching for Izumi's hand. The dark haired teen was immediately met with Izumi's soft but cold hand.

"Natsumi" Natsumi replied introduced herself while shaking it. "It's nice to meet you" Natsumi said before Sasuke scoffed and she released Izumi's hand.

Natsumi turned around to see the Uchiha roll his eyes as she raised her brows in giving him a questioning look until Izumi spoke and regained her attention.

"Sasuke, you seem like you're not happy to see me" Izumi said furrowing her brows as her smile fell.

Sasuke wore a blank expression as he stared down at Izumi. Something Natsumi had grown accustomed to as the boy didn't express many emotions, but she still knew the boy well enough to know that the specific look on his face said 'Go to Hell'. Natsumi felt conflicted as she internally debated on whether or not to step in and intervene. Standing amongst the pair, Natsumi felt unsure if Sasuke's glare would make the girl cry so she started to step in between the pair until much to her surprise she found herself pushed out of the way as Izumi charged forward and pulled the Uchiha in for a hug. Natsumi was taken aback by the gesture as she watched her dark haired friend stiffen in discomfort.

"Ah is it because I didn't say hi the right way?" Izumi asked squeezing Sasuke tightly. "I would've hugged you sooner but it seems like you usually try avoiding me when I stop by to see Itachi" the brunette said making Natsumi feel her heart clench at the mention of the older boy.

"Let go" Sasuke warned making Izumi laugh as Natsumi's brows rose in surprise at the scene.

'I've never seen anyone not be put off by Sasuke's attitude aside from me and Naruto' Natsumi thought as she watched Izumi step back from Sasuke with a smile.

"You've never been one for hugs Sasuke" Izumi complained placing her hands on her hips as she looked at Sasuke and earned a huff of annoyance.

'Sasuke said others called her pretty and nice ... definitely can't add bright if she can't pick up on the fact that Sasuke isn't one for hugs' Natsumi mentally noted as she watched Izumi release her own breath.

"Come on Sasuke I know some small part of you must've missed me" Izumi said with a small teasing smile as she tried to poke the teen boy.

Sasuke took a step back to avoid Izumi's touch, making her furrow her brows once more as she looked up at him with a sad look in her onyx orbs.

"I didn't" Sasuke stated bluntly.

Natsumi awkwardly shifted her gaze from Izumi to Sasuke as the air between the group suddenly became thick with tension. Natsumi half expected Izumi to burst into tears or try to bargain with Sasuke until her would inevitably blow up.

"Um Sasuke" Natsumi cut in, speaking before she could think to stop herself as she wanted to avoid the later, gaining the attention of both her dark haired friend and Izumi. "We should get going" Natsumi suggested awkwardly pointing toward the dumpling restaurant with her thumb.

Sasuke's look softened before looking back to Izumi. Nothing was said leaving a suffocating silence for a moment until Sasuke looked to Natsumi.

"Let's go" Sasuke said earning a nod from his dark haired friend as he took hold of her wrist to begin tugging Natsumi away from Izumi.

"It was nice meeting you" Natsumi said giving Izumi a small apologetic look as Sasuke pulled her along.

"Hey wait a minute" Izumi's voice called loudly gaining the attention of almost the entire street as people looked at the brown haired girl in alarm.

Sasuke didn't mind the attention though as he continued to pull Natsumi along, seemingly unaffected by Izumi's pleas as he continued on promptly ignoring the girl. Unfortunately his dark haired friend didn't share this sentiment as she slightly stiffened in discomfort of the crowd while Izumi used the opportunity to run alongside the pair.

"I want to get a little more time with you two" Izumi stated with a hopeful smile as she came to a halt in front of the two teens.

This made Sasuke's brows rise in alarm while Natsumi tried to compose herself under the many public stares they were now receiving. It was silent and Natsumi expected Sasuke to turn down Izumi but before either could reply, Izumi immediately spoke again.

"I've just been so busy since I've gotten back to Konoha that I haven't really made certain things priorities. Itachi is probably the person I've spent the most time with but I would love to spend some time his baby brother and his-" Izumi started to explain before being cut off by Sasuke.

"No" Sasuke said much too quickly rejecting the offer as the small crowd of onlookers gave disapproving looks.

"Oh come on Sasuke" Izumi pleaded. "It'll be a lot of fun, and I'll even pay" she offered.

"No" Sasuke repeated narrowing his onyx eyes at her.

"Well I'm not taking no as an answer" Izumi said boldly arguing back.

Natsumi's brows rose. She shifted the gaze of her brown hues between Sasuke and Izumi in anticipation of what would happen next. There seemed to be a moment of silence before Izumi spoke.

"I just want a chance to be closer with you. And no matter how much you try to push me away, I'll keep persisting just like I did with Itachi" Izumi said stubbornly crossing her arms over her chest with a smile.

'Keep persisting like she did with Itachi? Was Itachi like this with her at first too? How much did she persist until he gave in? Well that would explain how she got close to him' Natsumi thought feeling her heart clench before letting her gaze fall to the ground. 'Her persistence and confidence would make any guy fall for her ... unless he was a real idiot' Natsumi thought feeling her heart clench yet again before closing her eyes and releasing a breath.

"Why can't you take a hint?" Sasuke asked in an annoyed tone. "You could take that persistence and-" Sasuke started to say before Natsumi cut him off.

"Sasuke!" Natsumi stated warningly.

Sasuke readied to argue back until Natsumi looked at him with a serious look and motioned to the many people watching. He knew Natsumi wasn't one for crowds, he knew making a scene with Izumi wouldn't make the situation any better, especially since it would cause more attention that would send Natsumi into a panic and eventually lead back to his family. He shuddered at the lectures he would receive from his parents and brother, making him release a breath before looking away from both girls and closing his eyes.

'He's done' Natsumi mentally noted still feeling the crowd's eyes on her as she too shut her eyes and took a breath.

It was then Izumi excitedly made her way between Sasuke and Natsumi to hook her arms with theirs in victory.

"So where are we going?" Izumi asked breaking the silence as both dark haired teens notably stiffened in discomfort.

When neither Sasuke nor Natsumi answered, Izumi turned her full attention to Natsumi.

"I'm not intruding am I?" Izumi asked Natsumi with her brows furrowed in concern. "This wasn't a date or anything right?" Izumi asked in a worried tone.

"No" Natsumi said shaking her head before her gaze fell to the ground as making eye contact with the outgoing girl made her uncomfortable.

"Oh ok well where were you guys headed?" Izumi asked leaning forward into Natsumi's line of sight.

Natsumi looked at Izumi for a moment before shifting the gaze of her brown hues to Sasuke and seeing that her friend was deep in thought, most likely trying to keep his temper in check.

"Natsumi?" Izumi asked regaining Natsumi's attention as she had a small smile and raised her brows.

Natsumi blinked before awkwardly looking to the side.

"Uh the dumpling restaurant" Natsumi replied looking back to Izumi.

Izumi had a closed eyed smile while Sasuke tuned back into the conversation and gave Natsumi an annoyed look that Izumi didn't see.

'What?' Natsumi mouthed to the boy only to earn a scoff in response while Izumi still had a closed eyed smile; seemingly completely oblivious to their prior exchange.

"I love that place" Izumi exclaimed as the tree teens walked onward, pulling Sasuke and Natsumi along with her arms still hooked with theirs. "Maybe we can go get dango after" Izumi suggested happily smiling forward while Sasuke and Natsumi shared a look of dread.

Natsumi noticed that Izumi seemed to enjoy talking. The dark haired teen thought she was used to outgoing talkative types as she was friends with Naruto, but somehow there was no way to tune out Izumi's ramblings that were so positive and never ending. In all honesty, Natsumi much rather preferred Naruto's one sided discussions as he accepted light hums as a response to know or at least think you were listening. But Izumi was different, she wanted real replies and if all she received was an 'hn' she's insist on having the last thing she said repeated. And once she was sure you were listening to her she would randomly ask an opinion but cut you off when she would get too excited to talk herself.

'Maybe Sasuke was right to call her annoying' Natsumi thought as the trio arrived at the dumpling restaurant.

Upon entering they immediately met with a wave of warmth and the scent of freshly cooked food. It was a little less crowded than the last time Natsumi was there with her friends but the staff didn't look any less busy as the workers rushed around with trays to serve the customers that were present. The same older woman greeted the teens from behind the counter just as she did the last time before the group was seated by a hostess.

"Wow I really haven't been here in forever" Izumi said as they neared their table. "When's the last time you were here?" the brunette asked looking to Natsumi for a reply.

"Um the first day we went on break" Natsumi replied wearily.

"Oh really? Just the two of you or were you with your family?" Izumi asked.

"Well our friend group wanted to do our gift exchange he-" Natsumi started to reply before being cut off by Izumi.

"Oh my god that's so cute!" Izumi exclaimed. "I remember doing gift exchanges with my friends in high school and of course with Itachi but those were separate" the older girl explained with a giggle that made Natsumi's patience thin.

When they got to their table Natsumi sat first but before Sasuke could take the seat beside her, he was forcibly pulled into the seat next to Izumi, leaving Natsumi alone as she sat across from them. The girl seemed completely ignorant to the fact that Sasuke was upset as she went about laughing and talking.

"This was such a fun idea" Izumi stated as the waitress stopped to drop off waters for the table and took their order. "I haven't been on a lunch date in forever. Do you two do this often?" Izumi asked looking between Sasuke and Natsumi as she took a sip of her water.

"We're just getting food" Sasuke stated bluntly, not bothering to hide the annoyance in his tone as he took a sip of his own water.

Natsumi looked at the boy for a moment before turning back to Izumi and to her shock seeing the brown haired girl laugh.

"Oh Sasuke you're so serious" Izumi giggled. "I guess the Uchiha boys' being so literal is something that'll never change" she commented with a smile. "You know when we were growing up Itachi was the same way" Izumi said looking to Natsumi. "I guess Sasuke is really following in his footsteps" she said with a light laugh.

Natsumi stiffened at the comment before shifting her gaze to Sasuke and seeing him glaring at Izumi.

'If looks could kill, we'd definitely have a body at the table with us' Natsumi thought. 'Because that comment definitely struck a nerve with Sasuke' Natsumi thought.

"Did you get to see Sasuke's baby pictures?" Izumi suddenly asked. "Because he was the cutest baby" she commented motioning to the dark haired boy.

"Hn" Natsumi replied with a nod.

"Really when?" Izumi questioned leaning forward in her seat.

Natsumi looked from Izumi to Sasuke, before replying.

"Well Mikoto showed them to me when Sasuke and I were working on a school assignment" Natsumi stated.

Izumi's eyes widened a fraction in surprise before she spoke.

"Was it when you first met Mikoto?" Izumi asked.

"Yeah" Natsumi replied. "She was really surprised when I wasn't Naruto and –" Natsumi started to explain before being cut off by thee brunette.

"She did the same thing when Itachi and I went on our first date!" Izumi exclaimed. "But I was like, 'Mikoto I've seen these before, I grew up with him'" Izumi recounted with a giggle while Natsumi felt her heart ache. "Mikoto can be such a stereotype sometimes but I when you have boys as perfect as hers, I can't really blame her" Izumi said with a smile. "One day I think I'll be the same way" Izumi stated. "I'll do the full nine yards and pull out the baby books and even take the girl dress shopping" she said making Natsumi perk up in interest.

"Dress shopping?" Natsumi asked.

Izumi had a distant look on her face as if she were looking into a distant memory before looking back to Natsumi with an excited smile.

"Oh yeah" Izumi said with a small smile. "Since my parents were busy, Mikoto took actually took me to get my senior prom dress" Izumi said fondly. "It was probably one of my favorites since she has such great taste and we had so much fun shopping together well that and how much she likes me" Izumi stated.

"Brag much?" Sasuke asked rhetorically, suddenly making Izumi stiffen before bringing a hand to her mouth as her brows rose in alarm.

"I'm so sorry!" Izumi exclaimed. "I'm sure Mikoto likes you too" the brown haired girl said waving her hands in front of her. "It's just I'm the first girlfriend so ..." Izumi started before trailing off in thought.

"Was" Sasuke suddenly said, pulling Izumi out of her thoughts as she turned to him.

"What?" Izumi asked.

"Was" Sasuke repeated himself. "Past tense. You're not Itachi's girlfriend anymore" Sasuke corrected her.

It grew silent with a tension in that air that made Natsumi feel like she was suffocating. The dark haired teen nervously took hold of her glass of water, bringing it forward to timidly take a sip while keeping her gaze between Izumi and Sasuke. Izumi's eyes were wide in surprise while Sasuke had his usual stoic expression. Natsumi felt guilty for the tinge of relief that she held when Sasuke corrected the girl, but was uncomfortable as she waited for the conversation to resume.

"I guess you're right" Izumi said with a said smile as she turned her gaze to the table in front of her.

Sasuke scoffed before shaking his head in annoyance and looking to the side.

"But you know after we broke up we agreed that nothing would change" Izumi suddenly stated as she lifted her gaze up. "We're still friends and we can think of each other's families as our own" she said, earning an eye roll from Sasuke.

"Alright here is your order" the waitress suddenly announced catching the attention of the group. "Can I get anything else for you kids?" the woman asked looking around the table.

"No" Sasuke stated while Natsumi shook her head in agreement.

"We'll be fine" Izumi said with a smile.

"Oh ok if you need anything just let me know" the woman said with a smile.

"Um are you guys sure you don't want anything else?" Izumi asked looking at Natsumi and Sasuke for a moment before turning back to the waitress. "You know we might order more later" Izumi said looking back to the woman and earning a nod of understanding before leaving the table. "We should probably order a little more since the food here is so good" Izumi suggested looking between the two dark haired teens. "I really like the pork dumplings what about you Natsumi?" Izumi asked folding her hands together in front of her.

"That sounds fine" Natsumi said keeping her reply short as she didn't wish to become agitated if she was cut off again.

"You're not much of a talker are you?" Izumi abruptly asked, making Natsumi stiffen as she looked at the girl with her brows raised in surprise.

"Huh?" Natsumi asked in disbelief.

"You seem really quiet" Izumi pointed out with an awkwardly smile. "But then again so is Sasuke so that must be why you two get along so well" she went on with a small laugh. "You know Itachi used to be the same way until we meant" Izumi suddenly said. "It was kind of cute but really annoying at times too" she admitted making Natsumi release a breath of disbelief as she stared at her.

"The feeling must've been mutual" Sasuke said snidely as Izumi turned her attention back to the boy.

"You're only saying that because you haven't come out of your shell yet" Izumi said playfully hitting Sasuke on the arm. "Itachi was the same way" she said looking back to Natsumi with a smile. "You know Sasuke if you keep following in his footsteps, it won't be long until-" Izumi started to say until being cut off by the Uchiha.

"Shut up" Sasuke stated in a low voice.

"Sasuke" Izumi said taken aback by his sudden tone.

"Do you ever get tired of the sound of your own voice? Or has it never occurred to you that conversation you have would be one sided because you never let anyone finish talking?" Sasuke asked bluntly.

It was quiet for a moment as Izumi looked at Sasuke and Natsumi nervously sat observing the situation, hoping neither would raise their voices and draw the attention of the shop to their table.

"That's sort of a harsh way of putting it" Izumi pointed out with a half-smile while her brows furrowed.

"Well you persisted" Sasuke said making the brunette stiffen.

"Sasuke" Izumi said as her smile fell.

"Just like you persisted on bothering Itachi until he'd be your friend, and persisted until he was your boyfriend, and persisted until you broke his heart" Sasuke said venomously. "So excuse me if I'm not exactly thrilled or interested in humoring your delusion that I'd be following in his footsteps" Sasuke stated before rising from his seat and storming out of the restaurant.

"Sasuke!" Natsumi called after the teen boy before she and Izumi looked at one another.

Natsumi started to rise from her seat until Izumi held a hand out to stop her.

"I'll go after him" Izumi clarified.

"I don't think that's a good ide-" Natsumi started to protest until being cut off by Izumi.

"Listen I've known Itachi a long time and know how to handle him when he gets like this" Izumi replied as Natsumi's brows rose in alarm.

"Excuse me?" Natsumi asked looking at the girl as if she'd heard her wrong.

"It's nothing personal I've just known him longer" Izumi said with a shrug as she started to rise from her seat.

"No" Natsumi suddenly snapped making the girl flinch in surprise as her actions came to a halt and even Natsumi was surprised at the harshness of her tone. "I get that you've known Sasuke and Itachi a lot longer than I have and that Sasuke and Itachi are pretty similar, but Sasuke isn't Itachi. You don't know him the way you knew Itachi. I know him better. He's my best friend so I'm going after him." Natsumi stated, before getting up and chasing after Sasuke without hearing Izumi's response.

Izumi blinked, seeming to have nothing to say to this.

"Oh" Izumi said looking down at the table.

...

Rushing out into the cold winter air, Natsumi felt her face being hit by an icy gust of wind. Her brown hues traveled around the many faces of the passing strangers walking by before walking away from the front of the front of the restaurant and seeing a familiar head of spiky black hair at the side of the building. She felt a bit of relief seeing Sasuke leaning against the building with his head held up as he looked upwards and had his hands buried into the pockets of his coat.

Nothing was said as she approached him, nothing had to be said because as soon as she made her way over, she leaned against the wall beside him and placed her hands into her own pockets.

"It's cold" Sasuke suddenly said breaking the silence between the pair.

"It is" Natsumi agreed looking up to where Sasuke and seeing a large cloud.

It once again grew silent between the two dark haired teens before Natsumi tried to speak again.

"Are you alright?" she asked turning her head to look at the Uchiha and seeing he was still staring upwards.

"I don't want to go back in" Sasuke said.

"I don't want to either" Natsumi admitted with a shrug as she faced forward again.

This made Sasuke raise a brow at the young dark haired girl as he slightly turned to face her.

"You think she's annoying too" Sasuke suddenly said knowingly.

Natsumi scoffed before turning to meet the gaze of Sasuke's onyx eyes. Sasuke smirked as he looked down at Natsumi.

"For once you agree with me" he said in disbelief, making the girl role her eyes as she crossed her arms in front of her.

"This isn't the first time we've agreed" Natsumi stated.

"Yeah but it's the first time we've agreed on a girl being annoying" he said smugly.

"Sakura and Ino" Natsumi retorted with a deadpan expression that made the Uchiha snort to repress a laugh.

In all truth, the two girls weren't so bad and Natsumi knew they were nice and actually two people she could call friends, granted that the topic of Sasuke wasn't breached or they would turn into real pieces of work.

At this very moment another icy breeze blew by the pair making Natsumi tighten her hold around herself to avoid the icy shiver that passed through her. This was something she thought would go unnoticed but Sasuke knew as he saw it in his preferable vision.

"Go back inside" Sasuke ordered making the dark haired teen scoff.

"You go back inside" Natsumi retorted. "You've been out here longer than I have" Natsumi went on stubbornly.

"You're cold" Sasuke stated matter of factly.

"So are you" Natsumi argued back.

Sasuke rolled his eyes at the girl's antics before looking back up.

"I'll meet you back inside. I just need time" Sasuke said in a softer tone that surprised Natsumi as she looked at the boy in disbelief.

'He's not going to argue back' Natsumi thought in alarm before a small smile crossed her lips.

"I'll hold you to that" Natsumi said earning a nod from the Uchiha before she turned to make her way back inside the restaurant.

It was nice being welcomed back into the warmth with the smell of food that made the teen's stomach pinch as she realized just how hungry she really was.

'If I would've known all this was going to happen, Sasuke and I might've had better luck eating somewhere else' Natsumi thought with a sigh as she made her way back to the table where Izumi patiently waited with her arms folded together on the table.

"Natsumi you're back!" Izumi exclaimed as Natsumi slid back into her seat at the table.

Natsumi gave a simple nod before silence fell between the two girls. Natsumi felt the smallest bit of guilt for the rudeness in her tone when she said she would the one to go after Sasuke, but she also felt the tiniest bit of anger in what Izumi had said.

'Listen I've known Itachi a long time and know how to handle him when he gets like this' Natsumi replayed the other girl's words on a loop. 'How could she say something like that? They're not the same person' Natsumi thought before Izumi suddenly cleared her throat and gained her attention.

"Sooo is Sasuke ok?" Izumi asked giving the dark haired teen a worried look that reminded her of a puppy.

'Great I basically yelled at this girl earlier' Natsumi thought feeling her guilt rise.

Natsumi nodded making the girl breathe a sigh of relief before a genuine smile crossed her face.

"Oh I'm so glad" Izumi said making a confused look cross Natsumi's face.

'If she were the type to use Sasuke to get to Itachi, she wouldn't have had that worried look on her face or even react the way a mother would when you say their kid is ok' Natsumi thought before the waitress approached the table again.

"Oh it looks like we're missing someone" the woman pointed out.

"He'll be back in a minute" Natsumi said earning a nod of understanding from the woman.

"Alright so are you kids ready to order anything else?" the woman asked with a smile as she readied her pen and pad.

"Um-" Natsumi started to say before Izumi cut in.

"We'll take three orders of your pork dumplings" Izumi stated earning a nod from the woman as she scribbled down the order and left.

Natsumi looked back to Izumi, trying to maintain a calm demeanor.

'Maybe it's just something she does' Natsumi thought shifting her gaze to the table. 'It might be the most annoying thing ever but maybe it's one of the things Itachi likes about her' Natsumi went on in thought as she felt her heart drop.

"Natsumi" Izumi called in a light voice, bringing the dark haired girl out of her thoughts as she looked up to meet onyx hues. "About earlier ..." Izumi started before trailing off as she shifted her gaze nervously to the side.

Natsumi's brows rose in alarm as she knew what Izumi was referring to.

"Izumi I'm sorry about snapping at you-" Natsumi started to apologize before being cut off by the brown haired girl.

"No you don't have to apologize!" Izumi exclaimed frantically waving her hands in front of her. "Everything you said was true" the older girl admitted taking Natsumi by surprise. "I've known Sasuke longer but there isn't a doubt in my mind that you know him better. And with how long I've been gone, it doesn't really surprise me that him and Itachi have other people that they're closer to" Izumi said with a small smile that didn't reach her eyes. "They're growing" she said as a silence fell over the girls again.

"They are" Natsumi agreed breaking the silence. "But that doesn't mean you know them any less" she stated. "Sasuke is a little difficult" Natsumi said with a sigh making a small smile cross Izumi's face.

"I'm not stupid" Izumi stated making Natsumi raise her brows in surprise.

"What?" Natsumi asked.

"I'm not stupid. I know Sasuke doesn't like me" Izumi replied further taking Natsumi by surprise.

"What?" Natsumi asked in disbelief.

"I know" Izumi clarified with a sad smile. "I've always known" she went on dropping her gaze to the table's surface.

Natsumi stared at the brunette in silence with a curious look as she waited for Izumi to continue.

"He's not exactly subtle in how he treats me. Ever since we were kids, he's always thought of me as Itachi's annoying friend and that didn't change when Itachi and I were together." Izumi explained as Natsumi sucked in a sharp breath.

Natsumi kept a stoic expression as Izumi went on.

"But even if Sasuke doesn't like me, even after all this time ... I'm still going to keep trying to make him" Izumi said looking back up to meet Natsumi's gaze with a closed eyed smile of determination.

"Why?" Natsumi asked, surprising herself at how quick she asked.

Izumi opened her eyes and raised her brows in surprise.

"Oh um ..." Izumi started to reply as her gaze shifted to the side and a shy smile crossed her face. "It's kind of hard to explain" Izumi said with a slight giggle.

"I just don't get it" Natsumi replied honestly.

Izumi's laughter came to a halt.

"You know the type of person Sasuke is so why would you still want to try so hard when-" Natsumi started to ask before being cut off by the brunette.

"When Itachi and I aren't together anymore?" Izumi asked finishing the girl's question.

Natsumi's brows rose in alarm before the dark haired teen gave a slow nod.

"You have to promise not to laugh" Izumi stated with a light pink hue dusting over her cheeks as she shifted her onyx hues to the side.

Natsumi felt her stomach flop in anticipation of what Izumi would say.

'Does she still love Itachi? Does she want to get back together with him? Does she want Sasuke to like her because she'll most likely end up being his sister in law when she marries his brother?' Natsumi's mind began to race with these questions, making every second of Izumi's silence feel like Natsumi was preparing to have her heart broken.

"Natsumi?" Izumi asked tilting her head to the side as her voice suddenly made Natsumi jolt as she was pulled from her thoughts. "Promise?" Izumi asked giving Natsumi an expectant look as she raised her brows and looked her in the eyes.

"I promise" Natsumi replied with a nod as she maintained a blank expression.

"Well this might sound a little crazy since Itachi is my ex-boyfriend but you have to understand that we were friends for a long time before we even thought of dating" Izumi explained shyly glancing to the side before looking to Natsumi to make sure that the teen understood.

Natsumi gave a nod of understanding before Izumi continued.

"So there's always going to be this part of me that will care about him even if it's not romantic" Izumi stated looking back to meet the gaze of Natsumi's brown orbs. "I'm going to keep trying with Sasuke because I care about Itachi and I know how important Sasuke is to him" Izumi went on. "Even if it takes all my life, I want to be closer to him for Itachi's sake." Izumi explained with a determined look in her onyx eyes. "I know it must sound crazy but if Itachi didn't like you, wouldn't you do the same for Sasuke?" Izumi suddenly asked, taking Natsumi by surprise with the question.

"What?" Natsumi asked in disbelief.

"Well I guess that is a little weird to ask" Izumi admitted with a light laugh as she smiled at Natsumi. "You and Sasuke aren't a thing like Itachi and I especially since you guys aren't dating or even in love" Izumi said with an awkward smile that made Natsumi deadpan. "I'm sorry that was a weird way of putting it" Izumi apologized holding her hands in front of herself. "I just mean to say that you two aren't together in the way Itachi and I were" Izumi pointed out. "And I can tell you don't like each other that way either" she said as she scratched the back of her head.

It was quiet for a second as Natsumi stared at Izumi, processing everything she'd said and trying to think about her question.

'Would I try so hard to make Itachi like me for Sasuke's sake? Well that's not really something I need to worrying about ... If anything I should be trying to figure out how to stop liking Itachi for Sasuke's sake' Natsumi thought inwardly sighing.

"I'm sorry did I make things weird?" Izumi suddenly asked pulling Natsumi from her thoughts.

"No sorry just thinking" Natsumi replied before another thought struck her and a small smile crossed her face. "You know, you're the first one not to think Sasuke and I were dating or something" Natsumi said making Izumi's brows raise in surprise.

"Really?" Izumi asked tilting her head to the side.

"Hn" Natsumi replied with a nod. "Or even try to insinuate us liking each other" Natsumi admitted.

"Well it's kind of obvious" Izumi giggled. "Sasuke doesn't really seem like the type to be in a relationship" Izumi said with a shrug as Natsumi released a light laugh before nodding in agreement.

"Unless girls want a guy more moody than them" Natsumi said making Izumi laugh more.

"A lot of girls don't have the pleasure of knowing him like we do" Izumi said through her laughter.

"That definitely explains the delusional fan club members then" Natsumi added with a chuckle, making Izumi bring a hand to stifle her laughter.

"Wait- he has a fan club too?" Izumi asked with her eyes lighting up as she removed her hand from her mouth. "Oh then they're definitely missing out on the bigger picture" Izumi stated making Natsumi snort to stifle a laugh but ended up making both girls laugh even harder.

When the girls calmed down Izumi smiled kindly at Natsumi before releasing a breath.

"I think I owe you an apology" Izumi stated making Natsumi raise her brows in question. "You should know that I have this habit of cutting people off in conversations ... and it happens a lot when I'm nervous" Izumi admitted.

Natsumi was taken aback by this information as she stared at the brunette in front of her.

'Nervous? But she seems so confident ... what could she possibly be nervous about?' Natsumi wondered.

"I've done this a lot with you today so I'm sorry" Izumi said bowing her head in apology.

"That's ok" Natsumi said waving her hands in front of her. "I just ... I want to know why you would be nervous" Natsumi admitted.

Izumi had a light hue of pink cross her cheeks as she shifted her gaze to the side.

"Itachi told me a lot about you" Izumi stated making Natsumi feel like her heart had stopped.

'Itachi told her about me?!' Natsumi thought freezing up to the point of forgetting how to breathe. 'What did he say? What does she mean a lot?!' Natsumi wondered feeling her heart beat increase while hoping that the heat rushing to her face wasn't noticed by the brunette.

"I know that you and Sasuke are best friends. I know that you mean a lot to him. So I was worried that if you didn't like me ... Sasuke might hate me even more" Izumi admitted making Natsumi's brows rise in alarm.

'She was nervous about me not liking her?!' Natsumi thought in disbelief. 'This beautiful, confident girl was nervous about me?' Natsumi pondered.

"I know that must sound crazy but I just think you should know that I wasn't cutting you off with any cruel intention" Izumi explained looking back up to Natsumi.

Natsumi slowly gave a nod of understanding before Izumi went on.

"But now I see that I didn't really have anything to be worried about because even though you are really smart and pretty and composed ... you're someone I could be friends with" Izumi said with a smile. "I mean if not than I don't think we could've laughed so much earlier" Izumi stated.

"Well Sasuke is a pretty common ground for that type of thing" Natsumi said with a halfhearted smile, feeling a bit guilty for thinking Izumi would be someone more manipulative and vain.

"Most definitely" Izumi agreed. "And don't get me wrong he's a real looker but I can tell you'd be the type of girl looking for something more than a handsome face" Izumi said making Natsumi stiffen. "You seem like someone who would have a more dignified partner. Someone who could be kind, caring, and mature" Izumi explained as she picked up her water to take a sip.

Natsumi felt like all the air had just been knocked out of her lungs as she stared at Izumi in disbelief.

'Does she know?' Natsumi pondered.

"Why are you so quiet? Was I that spot on?" Izumi giggled tilting her head to the side slightly as Natsumi now felt the immense heat rush to her cheeks.

"I'm back" Sasuke's voice suddenly announce as the dark haired boy made his way back over to the table.

"Sasuke!" Izumi exclaimed with a smile as she looked over the teen and in this moment allowing Natsumi to release a breath of relief to be out of the hot seat.

"Oh looks like out missing person is back" the waitress suddenly said as she walked up with a tray balanced in one of her hands.

"Hn" Sasuke replied before quickly sliding into the seat beside Natsumi and earning a pout from Izumi.

The meal was quiet for the most part as the group ate. Izumi would try to start a conversation only to have Sasuke ignore her. Natsumi pitied Izumi and her many wasted attempts at growing closer to the younger Uchiha brother. Natsumi tried her best to help in carrying some of the discussions and even baring with Izumi's habit when she was cut off in these conversations. Yet there was still little to be done about the irritated look on Sasuke's face as he silently ate. After a while Izumi too fell silent to eat while Natsumi couldn't help but think over the discussion the two girls shared.

'She only wants Sasuke to like her' Natsumi thought looking at the brunette as she used her chopsticks to bring a dumpling to her mouth. 'And he thinks it's only because she's using him for Itachi' Natsumi thought turning her head to look at the dark haired boy beside her while her ate some rice. 'The harder she tries, the more he'll dislike her' Natsumi surmised looking at the table in front of her with a thoughtful look until her brown hues lit up with an idea.

As the end of the meal neared, Izumi excused herself to go to the restroom while Natsumi and Sasuke finished up.

"This is stupid" Sasuke said in his usual bored tone when Izumi was out of ear shot.

Natsumi stiffened before glancing to him and seeing him taking a sip of his water.

"I'm surprised" Natsumi stated making the boy raise a brow at her in question as he glanced over to her.

"By what?" Sasuke asked.

"You using a different word to describe something other than annoying" Natsumi replied, earning an eye roll from the Uchiha.

"Whatever" Sasuke scoffed bringing another dumpling to his mouth as Natsumi set down her chopsticks before standing from her seat.

"I'll be right back" she said making Sasuke raise a brow at her before giving a nod.

Natsumi quickly made her way towards the bathroom before coming to a halt outside the door as she remembered the last time she was here and how this was where Hinata found out she liked Itachi. Shaking the thought from her head, the dark haired teen pushed open the door to see Izumi standing at the sink washing her hands. When the door opened the brunette looked up to the mirror, making eye contact with Natsumi's brown hues and having a small smile cross her lips.

"Izumi I need to tell you something" Natsumi announced as she stepped into the bathroom.

Izumi's eyes widened in surprise and curiosity before she quickly grabbed a paper towel to dry her hands. Izumi wiped her hands on the cloth while turning to fully face Natsumi and nodding for her to continue.

"Sasuke told me about you before" Natsumi stated further taking the girl by surprise.

"I'm guessing he didn't have the nicest things to say?" Izumi asked with a sad smile.

Natsumi furrowed her brows before giving a guilty nod.

"I think you should know that he thinks you're annoying because he said you've always babied him and he can only assume that's because you were trying to use him to get closer to Itachi" Natsumi said.

Izumi's brows rose in astonishment.

"He thinks I'm only nice to him to get to Itachi?" Izumi asked in disbelief. "I have to tell him that's not true!" the brunette exclaimed before trying to rush out the door but being stopped when Natsumi stepped in front of her.

"That's only going to make things worse" Natsumi said bringing the girl to a halt.

"But –" Izumi started to argue before Natsumi shook her head at the girl.

"Listen we both know Sasuke is difficult" Natsumi stated. "And depending on what you do with this information is going to mean carrying on like you always have or actually working towards him liking you" Natsumi said making Izumi's eyes light up in excitement.

"You're really willing to help me Natsumi?" Izumi asked with a smile.

Natsumi gave a weary nod, earning a sequel from Izumi before being pulled into a tight embrace.

"Itachi was right! You are one of the kindest people ever!" Izumi exclaimed making the dark haired teen turn scarlet red from embarrassment and lack of air. "So what do I need to do?" Izumi asked pulling back from Natsumi and giving her a serious look.

Natsumi took a second to catch her breath before replying.

"Tone down how much you're coddling him" Natsumi stated making Izumi's brows furrow.

It was silent for a moment. Izumi released her hold on Natsumi, taking a step back with a thoughtful expression on her face as she looked downwards.

"Are you sure?" Izumi asked after a while.

Natsumi nodded in response as Izumi looked at her with a weary look.

"But how will he know how much I care if I don't treat him more familiarly?" Izumi asked with genuine confusion in her deep onyx hues.

"Sasuke isn't one for hugs or any type of physical interaction. And he's definitely not one for witty retorts unless you're on his better side" Natsumi explained as Izumi wore a disappointed look. "But you can get there in time just ... it'll take time" Natsumi stated earning a nod from the older girl.

"So I guess planning to spend the rest of the day with you two is pushing it?" Izumi asked earning a nod from Natsumi.

"Baby steps" Natsumi replied earning sigh from the brunette.

"Thank you Natsumi" Izumi said with a grateful smile as she looked up to meet the gaze of Natsumi's warm brown hues. "I really appreciate the help" Izumi said making a small smile cross Natsumi's face.

"We should get back" Natsumi suggested earning a nod from Izumi before the two girls exited the restroom to return to the table together.

Sasuke had just about finished eating and was currently scrolling through his phone when the two sat down with him again. He didn't acknowledge either when they sat, leaving the table in silence until the waitress dropped off the check and he and Izumi reached for it at the same time.

"I'll get it" Sasuke said challengingly as he kept a hand on the check.

"I told you I would pay Sas-" Izumi started to argue back until falling silent in thought. "I could at least split it with you or even just pay for my portion" Izumi offered making the boy raise a brow at her in question.

"I already told Natsumi I was paying for her so it wouldn't be right to go half on it and only paying for the two of us would earn me a lecture that I'd rather avoid" Sasuke retorted making the brunette furrow her brows before giving a nod of defeat.

Izumi released her hold on the bill, allowing Sasuke to slide it towards himself and read it over before placing his card on top for the waitress to take. Natsumi could tell Izumi was struggling with these new boundaries she would have to get used to with Sasuke, but she knew that they would eventually help in the long run for the goal she had in mind.

After the waitress ran Sasuke's card and returned with a receipt for him to sign, the group exited the restaurant. As they stood out front, there was a bit off awkwardness as Izumi shifted in front of Natsumi and Sasuke with a conflicted look on her face.

"Well I think I'm going to head home now" Izumi announced looking downwards.

"Hn" Sasuke said in disinterest as he stuck his hands in the pockets of his coat.

"Ok well I'll see you two later" Izumi said with a small wave before abruptly turning around and walking off from the pair.

Once she was out of ear shot, Sasuke cocked a brow in confusion before glancing to Natsumi.

"What?" the dark haired girl asked meeting the gaze of the Uchiha.

"Did you say something to her?" Sasuke asked.

"Why?" Natsumi asked.

"She always hugs me whenever she says hi or goodbye" Sasuke said looking back in the direction of Izumi before turning back to Natsumi.

Natsumi said nothing as the teens started walking, earning an annoyed huff from Sasuke until he bumped her shoulder to get an answer.

"I just suggested she stop coddling you" Natsumi finally said bringing Sasuke to halt. "What's wrong?" Natsumi asked giving the boy a perplexed look as she looked back at him.

Sasuke was quiet for a moment before asking with a straight face.

"You asked her to stop coddling?"

To which Natsumi replied with a nod.

"And she agreed?" Sasuke asked earning another nod of confirmation.

Sasuke was silent for a moment as he processed this information, making Natsumi worry for a second until she saw the smile of disbelief on his face before he suddenly turned and started walking in the opposite direction.

"Where are you going?" Natsumi called after Sasuke.

"Dango shop" Sasuke called back making a baffled look cross Natsumi's face until she ran to catch up with the Uchiha.

"Sasuke you hate sweets. Why would you go to the Dango shop?" Natsumi asked hastening to walk alongside the boy.

"You like them right?" Sasuke asked making the girl even further confused.

"Sasuke what's going on with you?!" Natsumi asked running in front of Sasuke and bringing him to a halt in front of her.

She was put off when Sasuke huffed with a smile on his face and felt like the world was ending when he reached out to place a hand on her shoulder.

"You really are one big problem but today you were actually helpful" Sasuke stated with a smirk that made Natsumi give him a confused expression before the Uchiha released a light chuckle before side stepping her to continue on his way. "Now hurry up before I change my mind" Sasuke yelled over his shoulder, further confusing Natsumi before she rushed after him.

'It sure has been an eventful day' Natsumi thought.

...

A/N: Hey guys, I know I haven't updated in the past few weeks but the month of December has been more than a little difficult. My family was diagnosed with COVID-19 and although I no longer live with them, it was difficult to focus on much with how worried I was. As I'm sure some of you may know, the virus can be dangerous for the elderly and those with underlying illnesses, which so happens to apply to both my parents. Unfortunately this led to my father being hospitalized for the course of a week before passing away on December 26th. I'm hurt. But I also don't want my grief to add to my depression so I will try to keep writing. Yet if I'm a little late on some uploads I apologize and just ask for some patience in these trying times. I love you all and appreciate the support in the story thus far and hope it will continue. Please stay safe friends and until next time xoxo.

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