I'm so very tired these days, but so very happy. This story makes me happy, you readers make me happy, and I am pleased to bring out more of our exciting adventure. My hope is to surprise you, cause I know each and every reader has scenarios going on in their heads of what could be happening next. :D My birthday was last weekend, I'm sadly an 9/11 baby, but I will say it was a most memorable weekend. Thanks for those birthday wishes to those who knew... well now anyone who reads this, will now know... haha. I'm at an age now that I can honestly say, that I had forgotten it was my birthday on several occasions before the actual day... yes that is how old I am. Anyhow, enough rambling right?!
==xx00x00x00x00x00xx==
Naruto flinched back slightly at the words that escaped Sasuke's mouth. Sasuke still had a somewhat of a smile on his lips, and Naruto could immediately tell that it was forced. "What do you mean Sas? What's over?" He sat slowly down on the bed beside his mate, placing his hands softly on the other.
Sasuke sucked in his bottom lip, his eyes cast down to see Naruto's warm hands on his own. What did he mean? What was he thinking? His thoughts were still a jumble, whirling around like a giant alphabet soup that he just stirred in a bowl. He was with pup, shouldn't he be celebrating with his mate at this very moment? But what if Naruto isn't ready? What if Naruto gets angry, saying how Sasuke ruined his goals, his plans, his youth? What if Naruto wants him to dispose of it? Sasuke shook his head, squeezing his eyes shut. No, Naruto wouldn't do that-but really, what does he know of what the blond alpha is really thinking? They have been bonded for such a small amount of time, what did he really know of Naruto's plans for the future? They were both still in university for fucks sake! This unexpected pup would put a hurdle in their future for sure!
Sasuke began to feel his mouth water profusely, vertigo feelings began to swim through his head while the panic began to smash into his senses causing his stomach to twist and the feeling of wanting to vomit quickly put all thoughts on hold when Sasuke stumbled out of the bed and headed for the toilet, for the second time that morning.
"Sasuke!" Naruto jumped up, grabbing a hold of the smaller male so he wouldn't fall and shuffled him quickly to the ensuite. He helped Sasuke lean over the toilet, holding his hair back and stabilizing him as Sasuke began to convulse into the bowl.
Sasuke could feel the tears escaping his eyes and he didn't know if it was from the heaving or from the overwhelming emotions of fear, sadness and uncertainty that still pushed through his mind. He could feel his omega spirling about, ripping at his mentality, pushing waves of wanting him to get away from the uncertainty. The anxiety that ripped through him had his body quivering uncontrollably and he struggled to keep it under control.
Naruto rubbed Sasuke's back, concern etched on his face as he watched Sasuke's body convulse and push the contents of his stomach out. His alpha was frantic, pushing at his mentality, begging him to console his mate, take him away, hide him, anything to get his mate out of the distress he felt. Naruto took heavy breaths, pushing his alpha down and tried to release a soothing scent and purr to help Sasuke through this situation. 'Was this the medical condition that baa-chan mentioned earlier? What is it that was making Sasuke end up in this situation? Is he sick with something only werewolves could get? Was Sasuke's body shutting down? Was he going to lose him?' Naruto clenched his teeth together. No, stop thinking that way. He continued to be the support that Sasuke needed at this moment, trying to make his mate as comfortable as possible.
Sasuke finally stopped heaving and was resting his cheek on the side of the bowl, his breaths coming out in heavy pants. Naruto got up quickly, making sure Sasuke wouldn't fall, and collected a cloth, wetting it with hot water and bringing it to Sasuke. Shifting Sasuke gently, he moved the warm cloth to his face, trying to dab at his lips and wipe away the sweat that had accumulated on his forehead.
Sasuke's body shook and ached all over as he maneuvered himself to sit up and back into Naruto's grasp. His muscles wouldn't stop shaking and if he could only catch his breath, he would get back up and take care of himself, but in the meantime, he let the alpha take care of him. It was somewhat comforting and he struggled to hold onto that feeling to overcome the anxiety that still quivered in the back of his mind.
After several moments had passed, Naruto pulled Sasuke into his chest, his alpha releasing the purring sensation to help the omega remain calm. He stroked his fingers through Sasuke's sweaty hair gently and rested his cheek upon the dark haired crown. "Better now?" Naruto whispered out, hearing Sasuke's breathing regularly and his body had stopped trembling.
"Hn," Sasuke breathed out, sounding exhausted.
Sensing his exhaustion, Naruto shifted and lifted Sasuke into his arms, navigating his way through the bathroom and back to the bed. He gently placed the darked haired omega back into the bed, noticing that Sasuke's eyes were now closed and he pulled up the blanket and tucked Sasuke in. Sasuke let out a long sigh as his head settled into the pillow and he adjusted himself under the covers.
"Get some more rest, I'll be here," Naruto whispered as he kissed Sasuke's forehead. When the raven didn't respond, eyes still closed, he moved to get some water for Sasuke and placed it with the food that was still by the bed. Grabbing the chair, he moved it beside the bed and made himself comfortable watching his sleeping mate. In his mind, various scenarios and questions went through his mind on what could be wrong with Sasuke. His alpha didn't seem to sense anything and was currently content sensing Sasuke was nearby and no longer suffering. 'Humph, I need to talk to Sakura,' he considered as he sat and waited.
==intermission==
"A word Tsunade-sama?" Itachi called out to the elder Uzumaki alpha in the corridor of the Uchiha manor. He had told his father to wait for him in another room before their apparent discussion that Fugaku had so blatantly informed him of, informing his tochan that he wanted to see Tsunade out. His form floated effortlessly towards the blond haired woman, who stopped in her tracks and her golden gaze fell upon him. When he reached her side, "would you mind hearing me out? I have a concern that I wish to discuss with you."
Tsunade tilted her head slightly, as if considering the request before she hummed and nodded out an affirmative sound.
"This way if you please," Itachi waved his arm to the side and began walking slowly, his eyes asking Tsunade to follow. The elder alpha took his side and the pair walked a ways down to a sitting room. "Please sit if you could, this shouldn't take too much time and again thank you for listening," Itachi called out as he took a seat in a large arm chair, waving his open palmed hand out to the one across from him. An invite to the other alpha to sit.
"What's on your mind?" Tsunade asked before settling into her seat, placing her medical bag at her feet and then crossing her leg.
Itachi took a breath, "I would assume, being the master of your field and highly educated woman, that you are aware of my otouto's condition?" Itachi gave her a small smirk.
Tsunade grinned at him, a sparkle in her eye at the question. "That is correct, you assumed well."
Itachi nodded. "Well, I have a request."
"For Sasuke?" she asked, sounding surprised.
Itachi shook his head. "No, for my mate."
"What's the issue then? Are you two alright?" Tsunade asked, leaning forward slightly, concern etched in her face.
"Well, considering that otouto is now expecting, it has brought up concerns from my own mate, Deidara." Itachi looked at Tsunade, his eyes expressing slight distress.
"I see," Tsunade tapped her chin with her finger.
"Thus, Deidara has shown some distress over his own ability to be able to carry pups," Itachi whispered out. "Understand Tsunade-sama, that I would not trust anyone else with this situation but yourself."
Tsunade hummed out in agreement. Alpha's were very proud of their clans, their families and their mates, and having to speak of any sort of possible weakness in their family, was, well in the past, seen as a curse. No alpha would ever admit to anyone any problems, illnesses or issues with their pack members. Not to mention alpha's were pretty protective of their mates, therefore getting medical attention for omega's was highly unheard for centuries. But, this was the 21st century, and Tsunade was certain that Itachi was more with the now than the past. Fugaku though, she had hesitations.
"You two have been bonded for how long?" Tsunade started with.
"Going on 8 years," Itachi answered quickly.
Tsunade leaned back into her chair again. "Hmm, has Deidara-kun been on any type of suppressants?" Itachi shook his head no quickly. Tsunade furrowed her eyebrows in thought. "Has he been injured in any way in the time that you two have been together?"
Again Itachi shook his head. "But, I can't speak for what he had gone through before we became bonded. We have never really discussed his past to an extent," Itachi quickly added after shaking his head.
Tsunade pulled out her phone. "I would like to examine him, with his and your permission of course, and I would like to know more about his medical history before you two were bonded. How does next week sound?" She continued to look at her phone, scrolling through her calendar before looking up at Itachi. Seeing the stoic face she continued. "Do you think Deidara-kun will be comfortable with talking and seeing me? Are you comfortable with that? I assume you must be somewhat, since you approached me for guidance." She gave a supportive smile.
Itachi drew out a long breath and tucked a strand of hair behind his ear. "As much as my alpha is not happy with the suggestion, I cannot bear to see Deidara suffer any longer."
Tsunade stood up, grabbing her medical bag and shoving her phone in her pocket. "Alright Itachi-sama, I have you and Deidara scheduled in for next Wednesday, my home and I will make sure Deidara-kun is comfortable and not feel violated, you have my word." She nodded firmly.
Itachi stood up to walk Tsunade out, "thank you Tsunade-sama. Do take care heading home."
Tsunade chuckled slightly and nudged Itachi's arm. "We will find out what's going on, fear not." She smiled before turning out the door and heading towards the exit, her heels echoing throughout the corridor.
Itachi's shoulders dropped slightly as he watched the elder alpha leave. A spark of hope triggered in his mind, though his alpha wasn't pleased, his human mind was hopeful that his mate would find the answer he was looking for. He found it odd that neither of them have thought of procreating before. It had never crossed his mind at all, had Deidara never considered it? He pinched his lips together in a frown, his brows furrowing in thought, before he sighed out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He better get back to this tochan, who was waiting for his return. He turned slowly around, his chin slightly lowered as his mind continued to think about Deidara and their upcoming appointment.
"I trust Tsunade-sama was seen safely to her car?" Fugaku huffed out when Itachi entered the room. His eyes held an annoyance and he was standing near the large bay window in the room, his one hand tucked into his suit pocket.
'He would almost be mistaken for a clothing model with how he stood proud, sophisticated and suave,' Itachi thought to himself, not giving his tochan the retort that he was obviously fishing for. "What is it that you wish to discuss tochan?" Itachi decided to ignore the obvious attitude from his father.
"We-wanted to discuss with you about Christmas," a new, soft stern voice floated through the room.
Fugaku glanced over at the door with an amused smile and Itachi turned his head to the voice, seeing his mother float into the room looking as glamorous as always. Her skin was fair, smooth, her face glowed with her forever youthful looks, her hair was silky and swayed as she walked. Everything about Mikoto screamed beauty, sophistication, and pure magnificence.
Obito and Izumi followed close behind her with their smiles and gave their appreciative nods to both Uchiha clan pack leaders. Mikoto strode up to Itachi, pulling him into a hug and placed a loving kiss on each of his cheeks. "Itachi my son, please sit, I have a proposition for you." She smiled warmly and looked up into his eyes. Itachi just nodded and turned to have a seat in the circle of chairs and couches. Fugaku took a seat on a love seat next to Mikoto, placing an arm behind her and turned slightly in her direction. Obito and Izumi stood behind the clan leaders casually.
"Now my son, being that Christmas is almost upon us, we," she glanced over at Fugaku with a tiny smile before looking back, "originally asked you and Sasuke to attend home." Itachi responded with a hum and a nodd. Satisfied, she clapped her hands on her knees, "since we are here, and situations have changed within your pack, I am requesting that we have a Christmas gala here, in your home." Her head nodded a few times and she glanced at Fugaku. Fugaku nodded in response and looked at Itachi, obviously waiting for an answer.
Itachi frowned slightly, several thoughts going through with various questions. "I do not believe I am ready to have a large gathering here kachan, considering I have never hosted such an event before. You and tochan are much more experienced in hosting such events." Itachi could not fathom holding such an event in his home. He had seen and attended many throughout his years, seen how many dignitaries, socialites, old and young politicians have mingled, danced, drank, eaten and honestly, hosting such an event could be such unnecessary stress.
"Oh but Itachi dear, it would be a small gathering." She clasped her hands together for emphasis. "Family from our clan and the branches of the Uchiha, we don't have to have any old stuffy political know it all's attend! It can be just family." She emphasizes the word, her eyes wide and inviting, as if she was trying to guilt Itachi into accepting.
Itachi scrunched up his nose slightly. "I'm not sure my schedule could accommodate it at this time." He folded his hands in his lap, his eyes looking at his knuckles. Suddenly he felt like he was 10 years old again, under the scrutiny of his parents because he took some extra treats for dessert to his room. He also didn't feel comfortable with having a bunch of wolves in his house, even though they were family, they still were strangers, since the clan had never been a close knit family. It was always nothing but business and politics in the family. And now with his mate being so fragile with the new concern of the possibility of infertility, adding a bunch of strangers into the mix could cause unnecessary anxiety and stress on Deidara.
"It would be a good time to show the clan what success you have built here with your pack. Show the elders just how well things are going." It was Fugaku that piped in now, his chin nodding repeatedly with low hums, which gave Itachi the impression his father was wanting to show off his offspring.
"Oh Itachi, wouldn't it be wonderful to have the family, to express how well you and Sasuke have been doing, how our clan is growing, especially now that I'm going to be a grandmother!" Mikoto practically squealed at the end of her sentence, her hands clasping together to show her excitement.
"We could catch you up on the things that have been happening with the cousins!" Obito now chimed in. Fugaku and Mikoto were humming with encouragement at the suggestion. "It has been quite some time since you have met with our cousins Itachi. It could be just like when we were younger!"
Itachi cringed at the comment. 'Like when we were younger? Something that I would rather forget.' Itachi scoffed to himself.
"What is this about younger times?" a new voice piped through the room. Itachi flinched, realizing his hope that this conversation stayed in this room was now foiled.
"Oh Deidara, you are awake," Mikoto cooed out, rising to feet and gathered up the blond's hands in her own. "We had just brought the idea up to Itachi about the Uchiha clan holding a Christmas gala here!" Her cheeks were blushing softly with her broad close lipped smile and her eyes were sparkling at the omega.
Deidara looked over at Itachi, his eyes wide with shock and his eyebrows rose high. He gave a look to Itachi, as if he was saying, are you serious? Itachi gave no indication back, his face was stolid and his eyes never flickered from Deidara's.
"What do you think Deidara?" Mikoto rubbed at Deidara's hands, still clasped within her own.
Deidara looked back at Mikoto's face. She looked so eager, excited and gave a look of it's all on you. "Umm, well, I guess it would be up to Itachi un. There - I mean, we have never held such an event before," Deidara fumbled with his words before he looked at Itachi again, he had no idea how to respond.
"The clan hasn't met Deidara-kun yet either Itachi, it would be a good time for the clan to see how much your pack has grown," Obito spoke up with a grin on his face.
"Let me look at my schedule kachan, and I will get back to you. No promises," Itachi's voice was cold and firm. "Now if you will excuse me," Itachi rose from his chair, "my mate and I have some business to attend to." Itachi moved to take Deidara's hands from Mikoto's, kissed Mikoto on the cheek before turning and nodding to his father. "I will see you all at dinner." He slid his arm around Deidara's waist and gently began to lead him from the room.
Deidara gave an apologetic smile to the group but secretly he was glad to have Itachi lead him away from the family drama.
==intermission==
Kyuubi woke early in the evening, his eyes blinking about, trying to figure out where he was. 'Oh...I'm home,' he thought about the events that happened earlier throughout the day and let out a long, loud sigh. Stretching out, he felt his muscles argue at being stretched out so quickly and he clenched his teeth through the discomfort. Whipping back the covers, he made his way out of bed and grabbed a light cotton shirt to wear and comfortable sleep trousers, slipping them on and heading out of his room. His stomach growled loudly and he rubbed his lower abdomen at the noise. "Yeah yeah, let's get something to eat," he chuckled to himself, slipping out of his room.
Nobody was down in the kitchen when Kyuubi walked in, he could sense Kisame, Hidan and Utakata in the home as well as Kiba and Sakura. 'Where is Nagato and the others?' he randomly thought as he raided the fridge, looking for something to eat. He knew that he needed to find Kimimaro and talk to him, his alpha gave a sharp pinch at his mentality when he recalled the scared face on the little omega earlier today. His stomach then rumbled in response as well. 'Better eat first.' He grabbed various foods out of the fridge, intent on warming various cooked leftovers that he began to lift the plastic wrap off different dishes.
"Oh Kyuubi, you're up and hungry I see. A good sign," Sakura's voice floated into the kitchen. "When you're done, I need to do a physical on you." She placed some dirty dishes in the sink and began to run the water.
"Mhm," Kyuubi responded, not looking at Sakura, immersed in the food that he was putting scoop fulls on a plate.
"So…" Sakura said as she leaned against the countertop. "What's the deal between you and Kimimaro?" Her face held a sly grin and her voice sing songed out the question.
A clatter of a spoon was heard and Sakura giggled.
"Oh, so that answers my question," she chuckled again, looking at Kyuubi who was grumbling about slippery dishes. He grabbed the spoon and finished dishing out the food on his plate and gave Sakura a frown. "Oh, come on!" Sakura huffed out and flittered her hand at him. "There is nothing wrong with it, I think you two would make a great couple! He is just so adorable!"
Kyuubi ignored the strawberry blond beta and placed his dish in the microwave, punching in the numbers to get the machine working.
"Have you read up on courtships? Did you have a plan to get started? Or have you started?" Sakura's voice got louder and louder with excitement. "Oh I bet you have! What have you done so far then? I hope it was romantic!" Sakura clasped her hands together and fluttered her eyes, giving a kiss look to her lips.
"Sakura," Kyuubi growled out in warning, his eyes still focused on the microwave. He willed it to hurry the hell up so he could get out away from the beta woman.
Sakura ignored Kyuubi and continued rambling about various courtships and gifts, Kyuubi clenched his teeth together and felt his hands fold up into fists. "SAKURA!" He finally snapped out at her, immediately silencing the strawberry blond woman. He glared directly at Sakura, whose face was frozen in surprise at the sudden outburst. "Will you just-there is-I can't thi- fuck!" Kyuubi tripped over the words he was trying to say. Everything he wanted to say just sounded so wrong! He ran a hand through his red hair, letting out a snarl and then turned back to look at the microwave. "For fucks sake! Why is this taking so long!" He directed his anger towards the kitchen appliance that still flashed numbers of about a minute to go.
Sakura snapped her jaw shut, her lips pinching into a frown as she stared at the red haired alpha. She was shocked at the outburst, then became angry that he snapped at her like that but then looking at Kyuubi's distraught face, she calmed down and felt sorry for the alpha. "Kyuubi," she whispered out gently. Kyuubi said nothing as he continued to glare daggers at the microwave. Sakura then smiled gently, "it's okay." Then Kyuubi looked over at her, his eyes gave a sense of sorrow and Sakura's heart went out to her pack member. She moved beside him and wrapped her arms around him. "I love you Kyuubi, I'm glad you're safe at home." She murmured into his shoulder. "We were all so worried."
Kyuubi felt heavy suddenly, as if the tension in his body suddenly relaxed at the kind embrace his pack member gave him. His alpha relished in the attention, the familiarity of being held by a pack member and Kyuubi's anger settled. He turned slightly and embraced Sakura back, resting his head on the crown of her head and inhaling her scent. It felt so familiar, so comforting, so like home. He couldn't help feeling relieved, safe, at ease, and so, just so-so reassured, that he was in a place so secure. It had felt so long since he felt this, how could he have forgotten? So many days, nights, weeks, months of nothing but loss, agony, grief, despair and loneliness, he admitted to himself that he really did miss this. The familiar burn behind his eyes began, a lump in his throat and he hugged Sakura harder, inhaling her scent and allowed a few salty tears to escape from his eyes. He was home.
==x00x00x00x00x00x==
The next day, the Uzumaki household was a flurry of activity. With Kisame healed, Hidan was eager to return to the Uchiha manor to update Itachi. When he had informed Sakura that they were able to head out, Sakura held up a cell phone to the silver haired wolf, stopping him in his tracks. "It's Itachi-sama, he wishes to speak to you." Hidan was slightly surprised at the sudden phone call, but shrugged and took the phone, sitting beside Kisame at the kitchen table. Sakura left the two wolves to their privacy.
"Yes Itachi-sama?" Hidan called into the phone, raising his brow at Kisame who in turn looked at him just as surprised, a mouth full of food.
"So good to hear that you two are alright Hidan," Itachi's voice sounded thick with relief. "I can admit that you two actually had me worried."
Hidan grinned and winked at Kisame, who gave out a snort and continued eating the food on his plate. "Aw you know that we are able to take care of ourselves! It was a great vacation!" Hidan chuckled into the phone.
"Then I suppose you two are not due for a vacation again for another, let's say a few years?" Itachi's voice was full of mirth.
"Aw boss don't say that!" Hidan barked out, but it held no bite. "We were just finishing up breakfast here and then we were gonna-"
"I need you two to stay there for the moment," Itachi cut off Hidan, the strain in his voice imminent.
Hidan's jaw fell open and he looked over at Kisame, who glanced over as well in between bites, hearing this command from their alpha. "Is there a problem Itachi-sama?" Hidan quickly responded, knowing that he wouldn't dare question his alpha's command. A slight sigh was heard from the other end of the line.
"My parents are currently visiting."
Hidan's eyebrows rose in surprise.
"And there is a concern about the guest that was brought back with you two. Therefore, I will be attending the Uzumaki pack home to meet this guest myself." Itachi gave firm instructions.
"Is there a concern that we should be aware of?" Hidan tilted his head at Kisame, who had now stopped eating and was listening in, his face showing his confusion.
"I will update you of the situation when I arrive, and not over the phone. Let the Uzumaki pack know I'll be arriving after lunch."
"Hai," Hidan responded and then hung up the phone. Slowly putting the phone down on the table, he looked at Kisame. "You heard that right? What the fuck you think this is about?"
"Got me. Obviously he knows something about that other wolf here. Uta-something. Doesn't he seem a little peculiar?" Kisame stated while shrugging his shoulders and shoveling more food into his mouth.
Hidan let out a raspberry type noise. "Nothing more unusual than what we see at the club!" he exclaimed and crossed his arms. "Well whatever. Guess we'll find out more when he gets here. Might as well enjoy the food. Shit, that beta is a good cook." Hidan turned back to the table and grabbed more dishes, piling the food onto his plate.
In the other room, Konan and Kimimaro were on a couch, talking to Iwai while the small pup was lying on his back between the two. Kimimaro was cooing over how cute Iwai was when he would place his finger in the small pup's hand and the tiny fingers would grasp Kimimaro's hand. Konan was slowly rubbing her fingers through the dark hair of the pup. Nagato was sitting on an arm chair across from the two, silently watching and when he saw Kyuubi come to the bottom of the stairs, he nodded a welcome and smiled. Kyuubi had come down the stairs and just watched the small pack quietly, not wanting to disturb the cute and cozy interactions between the group. His alpha stirred his heart strings when he watched Kimimaro interact with the little cub. A flutter of emotions went through him while his eyes took in the sight. He frowned slightly, not understanding what these feelings were.
He knew he needed to speak to Kimimaro about his behaviour the other day and apologize. He didn't see the group at all yesterday evening and after his emotional interaction with Sakura, he found himself extremely tired again even though he had just woken from a nap. But after he had a fill of emotional peace and a full stomach, he bid Sakura goodnight and went back to bed. He woke up this morning hearing the hustle and bustle of wolves downstairs, and sensing Kimimaro, he quickly got himself up, out of bed, prepped himself up and came downstairs. But now, watching the small pack, he almost felt that he was going to be intruding on the sentimental moment and bonding between the four members. His alpha pushed at his mentality, wanting him to get closer to Kimimaro, but he pushed it back, suddenly feeling that he shouldn't be here and he should wait.
He gave Nagato a nod, Konan and Kimimaro didn't see him, so he slipped quietly around the stairway and down the corridor. He figured he would go see how the others were doing.
Coming to the one door that was ajar, he gave a knuckled tap on the door, announcing his presence and pushed the door slightly. He saw brown eyes looking to the door from an armchair that was nestled in the corner by the window of the room. The brunette had a leg crossed and he appeared to be in thought when Kyuubi came into the room.
Kyuubi gave a small wave. "Hey," was all he could figure to say at the moment. Those brown eyes just watched him attentively, and Kyuubi nudged the door back to its original position and stood awkwardly. "Umm, just wanted to see how you were doing. Can I sit down?" Utakata did nothing but just stare at the alpha for a few moments and Kyuubi thought that perhaps the other wasn't interested in talking. "Well, okay then, if it isn't a good time, I'll catch ya later?" Kyuubi's green eyes looked to the side wall, his hand scratching the top of his head nervously. 'This is awkward,' he grumbled to himself.
"Come in," Utakata suddenly spoke and pointed to the other armchair directly opposite of the chair he was in.
Kyuubi's eyes snapped back at the brunette and gave a sheepish grip. "Ah, well uhhh thanks." He took the few steps to the chair, settling himself into it. He pinched his lips together, his eyes watching Utakata who was staring directly at him, his face stoic. He wasn't sure where to start the conversation. "So, umm...you feeling okay?" Kyuubi scrunched up his face at his choice of words. 'Of course he must be feeling okay duh,' he belittled himself. "Well, I mean you look much better, ummm how are you feeling?" 'UGH STUPID!' Kyuubi realizd he just asked the same stupid question.
Utakata watched the young alpha struggle internally with himself. 'Interesting, but why is he acting like this? He is an alpha, yet he appears to be acting like a small child.' He tilted his head slightly at his own question. Kyuubi stopped fidgeting and his large green eyes looked back at him, waiting for his response obviously. "I'm well."
Kyuubi visually relaxed when Utakata finally spoke. "Oh well, that is good." He looked to the floor briefly before looking back up at the brunette wolf. "I wanted to say thank you," he managed to breathe out. "For like, you know, helping Naruto, Kakashi and me, for getting us back home." He scratched at his cheek nervously, as if it was going to give some sort of magic courage. "And like everything else back there," he ended up shrugging and giving a nervous smile at Utakata.
"I see," Utakata responded, his eyes not moving as he took in the red haired alpha across from him.
Kyuubi stopped his movement and just stared at the other man. He was feeling somewhat perturbed that Utakata didn't respond to his appreciation, but he waited to see if Utakata was just having a delay in reaction. But the other wolf just stared right back at Kyuubi, no other apparent physical response was seen on his face. Kyuubi narrowed his eyes to the other, his lips pinched to a thin line. "Usually when someone is thanking you, you acknowledge that other person you know." He huffed out an annoyed sound.
Utakata just tilted his head to the side, his eyes round with curiosity. He wasn't sure what to expect from this alpha, Kyuubi, who was still just an enigma to him as all the other wolves around here.
Kyuubi folded his arms and let out a raspberry noise with his lips, his eyes rolling in exasperation. "Right, I remember," he mumbled out. "You don't know much about pack culture, huh?" He glanced over again at Utakata. The brunette wolf just gave a slight nod of agreement. With a long sigh, Kyuubi uncrossed his arms and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, starting straight at the other man. "Okay, first lesson, when someone says thank you, especially directly to you, you respond by saying your welcome, got that?"
"Why?" Utakata asked innocently.
"To be polite of course!" Kyuubi threw up his hands and let out a huff of air from his lips again. He ran a hand through his hair, Utakata still watching him with interest, "boy, this is gonna take some work." He mumbled out, his green eyes watching the new wolf, his alpha did not appear to see Utakata as a threat, so he sat back again in his chair, arms crossed. "Well, I got some time, let's talk about the Uzumaki pack shall we?" Kyuubi grinned and Utakata just nodded and crossed his legs.
==intermission==
Naruto felt himself wake slowly, his body feeling the most relaxed and refreshed he had felt for several months. Moving slightly, he found that his one arm was not responding to his request and his mind went directly to the source. Fiery tingles began to invade his entire arm, like dozens of needle pricks attacking his skin and he clenched his teeth when he wiggled his fingers that intensified the unwelcome feelings running throughout his arm. His arm was asleep, but why? He opened his eyes fully to find his vision filled with blue black hair. 'Ah Sasuke, of course,' he murmured to himself. The omega was asleep, his head heavy and tucked on his arm and face nestled into his chest. Naruto stopped fidgeting and took a moment of silence to enjoy the view and the familiar earthy scent that emanated from Sasuke. Inhaling deeply, his alpha preened at the familiar scent and feel of the omega in his arms, causing a shiver of excitement to vibrate right down into his loins.
Leaning closer and closing his eyes, Naruto buried his nose within the blue black locks and inhaled deeply. 'Huh, what is…' Naruto blinked rapidly, only flinching slightly at the surprise, he didn't want to interrupt Sasuke's slumber. Goodness knows the omega needed it with what had been happening in the past 24 hours, and he still had to find out about what it meant when baa-chan said something about Sasuke's medical condition. But with Sasuke being physically weak and exhausted, the vomiting episodes, Naruto could honestly say that he was feeling uneasy about Sasuke's condition. But there was something-
Naruto leaned in again, closing his eyes and inhaling the omega's scent. The same earthy tone was there, settling his alpha into a comatose like slumber but he was certain-there! He took several more short sniffs… 'Almost like... like… apples?' Yes, he was certain of it. This scent that was mixed with Sasuke's natural earthy tone was just like those green apples that Sakura insisted that he eat because it had something healthy to do with his gut. Curious, he leaned in again and practically pressed his nose against Sasuke's scalp. 'Yup, it's there.' It was very faint, but it didn't wear off or fade, it was like a whisper of a scent, but tantalizing all the same. How could he have not noticed it before? Certainly it had to have been there always-hadn't it?
Anger suddenly flared up as Naruto recalled situations in the past again, where he blatantly missed the cues and clues during conversations, reminding him of how idiotic, naive and immature he had been. He growled more to himself at how childlike his thinking has been, no wonder some didn't take him seriously! How many more situations was he in that he was so blind to what was right before him! His alpha vibrated suddenly within him, responding to his sudden flares of anger, the alpha becoming on high alert and at the ready. Quickly grabbing his wits, he wiggled loose from the still sleeping raven haired man and decided to go take a shower and calm down. He didn't want to risk having the omega wake at this current state.
Several minutes later, Sasuke woke to the sound of water running. Sliding his eyes awake quickly, he looked around, remembering where he was. Memories of before he was in bed, the sun shining through the window, at the location that it was on the floor, Sasuke realized it was morning. He rolled onto his back and looked up at the ceiling, dragging his palm down his face to wipe away the sleep. He looked to the side, finding the small clock and doing the math in his head, he realized that he had been asleep for about 15 hours! "Jeezuz christ," Sasuke mumbled groggily and moved to sit up. He looked to the side, finding the one side of the bed crumpled up like it was slept in and eyed the closed bathroom door, with the unmistakable sounds of the shower running behind it. His omega shuddered slightly when visions of Naruto flashed up. The tall blond beneath the rushing water, the steam rising lazily up and around his muscled and tanned body, frothy bubbles of soap running down various lines on the blond's back and chest. Sasuke bit his bottom hip at the visual, closed his eyes and took deep breaths. His omega and body were quite interested in the visual behind his eyelids and his cock slowly inflated in agreement. With a deep shuddering breath, Sasuke moved his body to the edge of the bed, his thoughts filled with one destination in mind and the sure fire promises that would most likely come when he reached that destination. He opened his eyes suddenly when the sounds of the running water ceased and Sasuke felt his shoulders slump in disappointment, realizing that the visions he had were not going to become a reality.
Flopping back on the bed, he let out a sigh, willing his semi hard erection to go down. The scent of Naruto was floating around him and he inhaled deeply, enjoying the scent. His stomach made a loud noise, shocking Sasuke from his hazy state and his hands flew down to his lower abdomen out of habit. Fingers touching his lower abdomen and his eyes widened when the memory of what Tsunade mentioned yesterday to him. His face contorted in thought, as his fingertips trailed lightly around his navel. 'Pregnant...me, with a baby. Growing now, and has been since Naruto's been gone-Naruto, what will he-' his thoughts rambled again silently through his lips. His omega flared up with pride, possessiveness and a warm feeling that Sasuke couldn't describe. He let himself fall into the moment, content with the positive feelings for a change, and no real worries.
Naruto stepped out of the bathroom quietly, thinking Sasuke was still asleep, and he stopped to take in the scene. Sasuke lying on the bed, obviously awake, staring straight up, his hand stroking the fine smooth porcelain skin of his tummy that was showing thanks to his bed shirt scrunched up to his chest. The alpha purred long and deep within his mind as blue eyes roved over the smooth skin and he silently wished he could be those fingers that trailed around the smooth skin so much in his life. It was obvious Sasuke didn't hear him open the door and Naruto padded softly across the floor towards the bed, his smile wide and his heart thumping widely. Sasuke looked so much better than the night prior, the sleep must have done him good. The colour in his skin was much richer than the last two days and all thoughts of Sasuke having some sort of medical condition vanished.
Sasuke's dark orbs glanced his way and Sasuke flinched suddenly, pulling his shirt down over his exposed stomach and grabbed the blanket to cover himself up with more. His eyes widened as he watched the blond alpha make his way towards him, there was a shiver of uncertainty that invaded his senses and suddenly he didn't know why.
"Sasuke, how do you feel?" Naruto whispered out, concern etched in his voice, his eyes scanning his body, from what he could see. His alpha was sensing the area with a sense of urgency and Naruto desperately tried to push his alpha down, not understanding why his alpha was suddenly so edgy. He shuffled up to the edge of the bed, his eyes never leaving Sasuke's while he gently sat down on the bed. His hand reached out to cup Sasuke's face, a gasp leaving his lips when Sasuke recoiled away. "Sas? Wha-" Naruto's hand dropped, his eyes widened with surprise at the movement.
Sasuke mentally scolded his omega. He couldn't stop the movement and he felt horror when his body moved on it's own, away from Naruto's gentle touch. Sasuke grit his teeth, he almost felt violated that his inner omega dare do that to his body! Sasuke narrowed his eyes and looked down at his lap. He was feeling the frustration build at feeling at a loss on how to punish his omega for taking control like that. He could feel his omega shirk in his mind, as if it knew that it was in shit for pulling a stunt like that. If there was one thing Sasuke hated, it was any sense of being out of control. Gripping the blanket between his fists, he glanced back up at the blond alpha, and his heart clenched at seeing the hurt behind those sapphire blues he came to love. Naruto was still, his mind obviously in shock at the sudden negative movement that had happened, just moments before.
Sasuke grabbed Naruto's still hand into his own, guiding it up to his cheek and Sasuke leaned into the large warm palm of the alpha, closing his eyes and breathing in Naruto's scent. He instantly felt himself relax and relished in the scent and warmth of the blond. "I'm sorry," he muttered. He slowly stroked his thumb over the back of the alpha's hand, still holding Naruto's palm against his cheek.
Naruto visibly relaxed at the gentle gesture, but he decided to still be cautious. Sasuke wasn't normally this sensitive and compassionate, rarely was he the one to initiate intimate contact, and Naruto could honestly say he was nervous. "Uh, you feeling better this morning Sas?" Naruto asked out, his voice giving away his nervousness. He held perfectly still, too scared to move and break this serene moment. His alpha still hadn't settled down, making him feel apprehensive.
"Better, yes," Sasuke murmured quietly, his eyes never opened and his head still was leaning into Naruto's hand.
Naruto tugged slightly on his captured palm, pulling Sasuke towards him gently. The omega allowed the movement, releasing a shuddering sigh and a content moan when Naruto's warm soft lips found Sasuke's. Naruto's heart fluttered immediately at the touch, his alpha howling out suddenly in excitement at the familiar scent and feeling of the omega. Naruto's hand moved to the back of Sasuke's head, his fingers weaving through the thick blue black locks and guiding Sasuke's head to deepen the kiss.
Sasuke fell into the soft loving kiss, his arms snaking their way up and around the alpha's neck, his lips on fire at feeling the familiar touch, smell of his alpha. Adjust himself slightly, he pulled the alpha closer and managed to have them both fall sideways onto the bed.
Naruto released an "eep!" of surprise when he fell to the bed, his heavy muscled body giving a slight bounce and Sasuke bouncing lightly beside him. The fall of course caused their lips to release, and Naruto's wide surprised eyes focused directly on wide dark orbs that sparkled with mirth. The two were silent and lost in each other's gaze for a few quiet moments, the world was nothing but them.
Naruto beamed a sudden grin, his eyes squinting from how big he smiled, draping an arm around Sasuke's body. "Sasuke?" he asked, his voice still laced with a hint of concern.
Sasuke blinked and opened his eyes wider, his eyebrows rising high, a subtle movement that indicated that he was listening and waiting for Naruto to speak.
"Are you certain you're alright?" Naruto then pushed his fingertips across Sasuke's forehead, pushing the small hairs away and back from his eyes. "I mean, well, you were sick, and...out of control when I found you…" his voice trailed off. His eyes followed his own fingers as he continued pushing his fingers across Sasuke's forehead softly.
Sasuke suddenly shifted away from Naruto, moving to sit up and sat on the edge of the bed, his back to the alpha. He wrapped his arms around his midsection and closed his eyes.
"Sas? Are you okay? Was it something-"
Sasuke didn't hear Naruto's concerned voice but Sasuke could feel the alpha become anxious, moving his body on the bed, coming up behind him and gently touching his shoulder. Sasuke shuddered suddenly at the touch, but didn't want to shrink away from it. His omega was pushing at him, trying to make him do something he didn't want to do, and Sasuke bit his lip, feeling the pressure at his mental walls start to create a pain between his eyes. He hugged his abdomen tightly, bending over slightly as he concentrated on fighting back the oppressive feelings his wolf was forcing upon his mentality. The trickles of terror were being forced into his mindset, alarm was bleeding into his senses and panic creeping up from below. With a deep breath, he forced himself to stand, his arms still hugging his body and he screamed mentally at his wolf to back the fuck off.
Naruto watched in fear, as his mate was apparently struggling with himself. 'Not himself, his omega,' he thought to himself. His alpha was alarmed at the sudden shift of mood coming from their omega, pacing about, feeling lost and confused. Naruto pushed his wolf down, trying to calm its worries. "Sasuke," he called out, moving off the bed to stand but didn't move in too close. "I'm here Sasuke, don't worry." Naruto gnawed on his bottom lip, hoping to hell that Sasuke could hear him. He waited, though it pained him to do so, as he watched Sasuke's back, listened to his harboured breathing and slamming heartbeat. He wanted to reach out and gather Sasuke into his arms, hold him close, protect him from all that was around them, but he waited and prepared himself for any surprises.
Sasuke suddenly turned, his body not rigid, but not totally relaxed either. His eyes had turned, but were bleeding back to their deep ebony colour the longer he stared at Naruto. His arms were till hugging his midsection, but his shoulders were firm, he stood tall and proud, his sharp chin was tilted up and his jaw clenched tight.
Naruto held his breath, his eyes watching Sasuke's form closely, his body on the ready should Sasuke bolt, fall, or whatever. He was still not certain what had or was happening, but he would not be scared off nor would he leave. He didn't know how long they stood there, watching each other, only an arms length apart but Naruto would admit he was scared to make the first move at this point! His mate was the most beautiful man on the planet, but he could be fucking scary as hell at times!
Sasuke felt his heart rate slow down, his anxiety begin to drop while his inner omega pulled back. The relief he felt wash over him suddenly made him feel very tired. The battle within his mind had been difficult, having never disciplined his wolf before, but a sign of release escaped his lips when his omega finally retreated into the dark recesses of his mind. His eyes focused on the blond alpha that stood across from him, frozen in his movements, his blue eyes filled with distress and fear, and the guilt gnawed at Sasuke.
"Naruto, I-" Sasuke snapped his lips together, worrying his bottom lip for a moment and his eyes looked to the floor. He thought about how he needed to say it, just let it out, he would deal with the consequences afterwards. He heard Naruto step towards him, he quickly held up his hand, halting the blond in his tracks. "J-just wait a sec," he managed to spit out. Naruto complied with his request. "I need to tell you something." He then glanced up at those blue eyes again, still etched with concern. Unconsciously his fingers grabbed the edge of his shirt, his fingers began to feel the edges of the hem, somewhat soothing as it briefly took his mind off what he was trying to say.
"Sas, whatever it is, it can't be that bad," Naruto tried to soothe the tension by chuckling and scratching at the side of his head with the comment, but Sasuke just looked up at him, his eyes giving a desperate look. A twist of pain in Naruto's heart had him wince.
"I'm pregnant," Sasuke snapped out quickly, his head dropping immediately and his hands now clenching the bottom of his shirt. He couldn't find himself to look up at the blond alpha, the fear that struck through him was back and he was clenching his teeth tightly to remind himself he was not weak. After several moments passed with no sound, curiosity got the better of him and he looked up.
The blond's jaw had fallen open somewhat, his eyes still round and blue, arms limp at his sides but the alpha just stood stalk still, staring but not staring right at Sasuke. Sasuke leaned to one side, noticing that those blue orbs were not following him and he lifted his hand, waved it slowly in front of the blond's direct line of sight.
"Naru?" Sasuke whispered out, still waving his hand before the frozen blue eyes. Sasuke stepped closer, narrowing his eyes to get a closer look at the blond's face. He snapped his fingers again by Naruto's nose, calling out, "oye! Hey! Naruto!" This seemed to work, when Naruto's eye lids gave a very slow blink, then another before his pupils began to move slightly. Sasuke snapped his fingers again, "yo dobe!" he called out again with the snaps, and Sasuke smiled when the slow blinking continued and those sapphire gems slowly turned to focus on him.
"There you are dobe," Sasuke breathed out in relief when those blue orbs seemed to focus on him. "I thought I had-" was all Sasuke said before those blue eyes rolled up, showing the whites and Naruto fell to the floor unconscious.
==x00x00x00x00x00x==
Ahhh... how was that? How many of ya were expecting that or maybe expecting me to being something else into play that would cause more drama and angst and so on and so on... LOL
Thanks for making it this far, means much and it excites me so when I see that people are still into this kinda stuff!
leaving a comment is as exciting as receiving an update on a chapter!