*I DON'T OWN NARUTO*


Two days had passed since Naruto had last spoken with Shikamaru, and since then nothing big had happened. The lack of activity had left Naruto incredibly restless,but he knew Shikamaru wouldn't fail when it came to keeping him informed on any new developments, waiting was just frustrating.

He yawned as he made his way up to his apartment. All he wanted wanted was to crawl into bed and go to sleep. He unlocked his front door and slowly walked inside. A shade of pink caught his attention and he looked up quickly to find Sakura waiting for him on the living room couch.

"Hey Sakura-chan, are you alright?"

"I'm okay, I was just so nauseated I couldn't sleep any longer, so I decided to just wait for you to come home. Sorry if I freaked you out."

"It's no biggie, I'm just glad you're okay," said Naruto as he closed the front door.

The next thing Sakura knew she felt his weight on the couch next to her. Her tiny frame leaned in towards him and he wrapped his arm around her pulling her close to him. Sakura snuggled into Naruto's side as she brought her legs up onto the couch.

"How was border patrol?"

"Nothing new to report, it was a really slow night."

"..."

"What's wrong?"

"I'm just worried."

"Worried about what?"

"Well, nothing's happened in the last two days…."

"And that's a bad thing?"

"No of course not."

"So what am I missing?"

"Well I'm not saying I want something bad to happen, it's just that, not knowing what's going on in the shadows is frustrating," said Sakura. "This time around no news is bad news."

"I know the feeling, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little anxious myself."

"So it's not just me being a control freak?"

"No of course not Sakura-chan, but just promise me you won't dwell on this stuff, alright? You have enough on your plate already," said Naruto as he gently rubbed her stomach.

Sakura smiled, she placed both her hands on Naruto's and sighed.

"I'll do my best not to worry."

"Good," yawned Naruto. "I guess I'm gonna hit the hay."

"Wait Naruto, there's something I've been meaning to tell you."

"What is it Sakura-chan?"

"We'll it's about my mother, I saw her when I went out with Shikamaru to buy groceries, she wants to talk to us."

"Seriously?"

"Yes."

"So what did you tell her?"

"I told her I'd talk to you so that we could set up a time for her to come over."

"You're sure she's not upset at me, right?"

"I'm sure, and I know you've never really spoken to her before, but we can't avoid this."

"..."

"I know your relationship with my mom hasn't been the greatest, but most of that is my fault."

"Don't be so hard on yourself Sakura-chan."

"No it's the truth, I can't blame everything on my mother. It was wrong and immature of me to put all of our disagreements on her. If I would have stopped being so pigheaded perhaps things could have been different, but what's done is done, and all we can control is what happens from here on out."

"You're right Sakura-chan, I'm on board with you."

"Thanks for giving my mom a chance Naruto."

"It's only fair I do, I mean she's giving me another chance too."

"I guess you got a point there," said Sakura.

"So by any chance do you know what she wants to talk about?"

"I'm guessing the topic will be the, what's you plan for the future, talk."

"That sounds like a likely topic."

"Yeah, and we need to be on the same page when it comes to our answer. We'll look like immature kids if we aren't in agreement with our plan."

"I know, I've been meaning to talk to you about our situation."

"You have?"

"Well yeah, why wouldn't I?"

"You're usually more of an action type person, you aren't one for planning and discussing."

"I have my moments," chuckled Naruto as he buried his nose in the crook of her neck.

Sakura squealed as she felt Naruto gently nip at her flesh. She playfully pushed him away in an attempt to keep him on track.

"Well how about sharing your thoughts with me?"

"If you insist," growled Naruto.

He gave her neck one last nip before pulling away.

"Well?"

"I'm going missy," teased Naruto. "So, I couldn't help but noticed that you've been staying here the last couple of days, you even brought your night bag that has quite a bit of clothes in it."

"..."

"Are you planning on just moving in with me Sakura-Chan, because I was meaning on asking you to move in with me anyway."

"Really?"

"Yeah, and this was even before I knew you were pregnant, so I'm all for the idea if you're okay with it."

"Of course I am Naruto."

"You are?"

"Yes!" Exclaimed Sakura. "There's nothing more I'd want than to live with you."

"Really Sakura-chan?"

"Really," replied Sakura as she wrapped her arms around him.

Naruto leaned his head against hers and signed.

"This is going to work out great Sakura-chan, you won't have to worry about rent thanks to the 3rd Hokage providing this apartment for me. It'll be way easier to save up, and hopefully, before the baby is born, we can move into a bigger place."

"You have no idea how relieved I am to hear you say that Naruto. I was starting to get worried since I wasn't going to be working any longer. I was afraid you supporting me would snag our efforts in saving for the baby."

"Well you can be worry free now," said Naruto as he hugged his girlfriend tightly.

"So how are we going to handle me moving?"

"Oh well that's easy, I can always make some clones, and we can also ask our friends to help out of need be."

"Only Ino, Shikamaru, and Sai are here in he village though, right?"

"Yeah but I also saw Team 11 this morning so I'm sure they wouldn't mind helping out either."

"Oh, so they're back already?"

"Yup."

"I wonder if they were successful in finding any of the missing people, or perhaps some information on the team the Raikage lost."

Naruto remained silent, as much as it hurt him he kept his knowledge of the whereabouts of the Raikage's team to himself. Sakura continued to chatter away, and as much as he wanted to give her his undivided attention, exhaustion had other plans. Naruto yawned, and Sakura couldn't help but smile.

"Hey, am I boring you?"

"Just a little," teased Naruto.

"Well you're lucky you're so good looking, if not I'd clobber you."

"This is the first time my looks have saved me, what gives, you've given me plenty of beatings in the past."

"Hush you, now off to bed you go,"said Sakura as she gently pushed Naruto off her.

"Alright I'm moving," yawned Naruto." You joining me?"

"No, I'm really not sleepy anymore, besides for some odd reason lying down while I'm nauseated makes it even worse," said Sakura.

"Suit yourself," said Naruto as he stretched.

"I'm going to try and be productive today. I'll stop by my mom's to let her know she can stop by later on today. Some nice fresh air will probably do me wonders."

She leaned in towards Naruto and kissed him softly on his whiskered cheek. Naruto watched her as she stood up from the couch. She was running her fingers through her hair as she slowly made her way towards his bedroom. Her swaying hips had a hypnotic effect on him, and her creamy thighs looked beyond inviting. Naruto's smiled widened. From now on, a sight like this, would be an everyday occurrence, and Naruto couldn't be happier.


Shikamaru yawned as he approached Tsunade's office door. It was still early in the morning and he was far from happy with Tsunade's sudden request to see him. He slouched while staring at the closed door in front of him.

"Well no point in procrastinating, I might as well just get this over with," yawned Shikamaru.

He opened the door and slowly walked inside. Upon entering he noticed he wasn't the only one there to see Tsunade. Standing in front of her desk was Kakashi and Anko. Shikamaru made his way towards them and waited to see what Tsunade had to say. The 5th Hokage looked at everyone before her as she leaned her chin onto her clasped hands.

"I'm glad I was able to get all of you here under such short notice, thank you for responding so quickly. Now I have requested you three for specific reasons. However before I go into detail on that I'd like to brief you on certain events that have come to pass."

"..."

"For starters I know all three of you are aware of the attack on the outskirts of the village a few days ago. We were left with three shinobi from Kumogakure and a dead body that was in their possession. The corpse was rather decomposed and it's been confirmed that it was the purpose for the attack on our borders."

"So they were from Kumogakure?" Asked Kakashi.

"Yes, Shikamaru shared some information with me two days ago regarding their identities. Inoichi officially confirmed Shikamaru's findings once he finished his interrogation on all three captives."

"Now wait just a minute, you mean to tell me that the Raikage had us on a wild goose chase then?! Snapped Anko.

"At first glance it would seem so, but we have proof that the Raikage was indeed unaware of his team's whereabouts," said Tsunade.

"So what were Inoichi's findings then Tsunade-sama?" Asked Kakashi.

"The Raikage's team was in fact on a mission to search for missing villagers. Instead of them finding anyone, they were captured, and then placed under a mind altering jutsu. Their shinobi skills were blocked, along with the knowledge of their home. Which explains why they used no jutsu or genjutsus on Ino. Their capture imbedded a new mission into their minds. They knew what they were doing was wrong, but their ability to stop their own actions were stripped away."

"So their new mission was to drop off the corpse inside Konoha's borders," said Kakashi.

"Yes, I had a full autopsy with several test scheduled for the corpse. However extra precautions were made after I spoke to Shikamaru."

"What exactly did Mr. Logic tell you that had you change your previous plans with an autopsy? I mean why in the world would you have to take precautions with one anyway?" Asked Anko.

"Why don't you enlighten us Shikamaru."

"If you insist," yawned Shikamaru."Like Tsunade-sama said I informed her two days with the true identity of the shinobi's in our custody, thanks to Naruto. His heightened sense of smell was able to pick up on some crucial information. It looks like the corpse Tsunade-sama is talking about was riddled with disease. I warned her that the corpse was probably just an incubating vessel for a new virus strain. This is the information she took into accord and added extra precautions during the autopsy. Am I right so far Tsunade-sama?"

"As always Shikamaru you are precisely right. During the autopsy a swarm of flies burst from the chest cavity when a Y incision was made. Since we had a heads up the swarm of flies were easily contained. These insects were perfect carriers for this new virus strain since they were feeding on the infected flesh."

"What's all this about a new virus, I wasn't even aware of the original," replied Anko.

"You haven't noticed fellow shinobi falling ill Anko? It's been all over the village," said Kakashi.

"Oh that, honestly it just looks like the flu. Are you all sure about this, because it seems a little farfetched to me."

"No Anko it's all true, I've had Shizune look into the structure of the virus and it isn't just a normal case of the flu. It's mutating at a rapid pace, so that verifies that it's being altered by who ever created it."

"Is there a cure for it?" Asked Kakashi.

"Yes, we're lucky that we've created a cure for the illness. However the fact that this dead body had a more powerful strain within it is undying proof that someone is manufacturing this somewhere," said Tsunade.

Anko's eyes widen and shivers traveled down her back, and vibrant colors of vitality drained from her face.

"No…"

"I'm sorry Anko, but this is why I specifically summoned you. I need a specialist on Orochimaru and all his old hideouts. All this points to Kabuto using what he learned from Orochimaru when he was alive," said Tsunade.

"Curse that leech Kabuto, right when Orochimaru was destroyed he went and fused some of the cells with his. Now that wretched snake is still out there somewhere. Why couldn't I have killed him during the war," muttered Anko.

"You know very well that Kabuto is just like Orochimaru. They work behind the scenes Anko. We had so much on our hands during the war, Kabuto took advantage of that and slipped through our fingers. So don't beat yourself up," said Kakashi.

"Anko, Kakashi, I want you both to investigate Orochimaru's old hideouts just in case. Since this is a recon mission I want the team to be small and you two are very capable of taking care of each other. Now there are three hideouts that we're aware of so get ready for departure and leave immediately. If you uncover any new information please send one of your ninken to me Kakashi."

"Yes Tsunade-sama," said Anko and Kakashi in unison.

They both left the room in a puff of smoke leaving Shikamaru alone with Tsunade.

"So I'm guessing you have something special in mind for me?" Asked Shikamaru.

"I most certainly do Shikamaru. I won't beat around the bush so I'll just say it, I know you're aware of Sasuke," said Tsunade softly.

Shikamaru cocked his head towards Tsunade and smirked.

"Yeah, well sorry for not bringing it up sooner. I figured you'd fill me in on it when you were ready."

"I knew you'd figure things out sooner than later Shikamaru. I myself wasn't aware of Sasuke until the Raikage brought it to my attention a few weeks ago. He informed me that Sasuke is using the land of lighting as his new base. Of course the Raikage saw this as a huge insult. He told me he'd be taking care of Sasuke himself since Konoha is too weak to destroy him. So far he hasn't been able to track him down. Instead the Raikage has been losing his villagers and even his shinobi."

"So that's why you sent Team 8 to Kumogakure. You wanted Kiba to search for Sasuke."

"Yes, I sent Team 8 over there for that specific reason. Each one of them are extremely excellent on tracking and gathering intel. They are aware that Sasuke is in the land of lighting, and I'm sure the Raikage wasn't pleased to see what type of team I sent to assist his searching attempts. I received a hawk from them yesterday stating that they're heading back home. Hopefully they come back with some new leads that can help us come up with a plan of action. Sasuke is our reasonability, I won't have the Raikage be stubborn and try and take him out on his own."

"..."

"I'm going to need your help more than ever Shikamaru."

"So what exactly do you want me to do?"

"For starters I want you to tell me what all these things have in common. We have all these tiny pieces to the puzzle and you're the only one that can put it together. Why would Sasuke be working with Kabuto again? He made it clear that he wanted to work alone after he abandoned all his ties with his allies and enemies during the war. So why form an alliance again, and why create an illness that can be so easily cured?" Asked Tsunade.

Shikamaru paced Tsunade's office in deep thought, taking in all this information into consideration.

"Well Sasuke still wants to destroy Konoha, so I think he'd do anything to make his obsession a reality. So working with Kabuto isn't so farfetched. Now I don't know anything about viruses or anything medical but there is one thing I am sure of. Konoha is known for its excellent medical shinobi, and with someone like you being Hokage this village is renowned for its medical knowledge. We were the key to winning the war after all. When Madera tried to get the upper hand on us who did he attack?" Asked Shikamaru.

"He attacked all our medic shinobi's, and he targeted the captain's like Shizune," replied Tsunade softly.

"Exactly, if you take out all the medical support there will be no one left to heal the injured. So I'm thinking Sasuke is trying to replicate the same tactic," said Shikamaru.

"I see, that does make sense, but the individuals that have been sick aren't just medic's. They're all types of shinobi."

Tsunade's voice trailed off when suddenly she became aware of something she had failed to notice before.

"All the victims have been shinobi, not a single person that's fallen ill is a civilian," said Tsunade.

"Are you sure about this?"

"Yes."

"So then there is a pattern here, this has to be what Sasuke wants. I'm going to need access to the files of the shinobi that have fallen ill. We need to find out exactly why they got sick. Plus we have to figure out why you were able to cure it so quickly. There needs to be something that we're missing," said Shikamaru.

"Agreed, I'll make sure Shizune goes over all her research again. We'll find out what that virus is hiding, I'm sure of it. Also I need you do something else for me Shikamaru."

"What?"

"I want your help keeping Naruto under control. As soon as he catches wind that Sasuke is involved in all of this he'll lose it. I can't afford to have him do something stupid."

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news but, he already knows."

"Of course he does," signed Tsunade in defeat. "Just try and keep whatever new information you learn under wraps."

"You make it sound so easy, he's incredibly hard to lie to you know, he may be a little dense at times, but he knows when someone is lying to him."

"I never said it would be a simple task, but you have to try."

"..."

"I know the both of you are incredibly close, but keeping this from him or for his own good. Understood?"

"Yes Tsunade-sama."

"Good, Naruto won't be in the village for a few days, so you won't have to worry about dealing with him."

"You're sending him on a mission?"

"I know, I'm a hypocrite, but I can't afford to shelter Naruto any longer. He's needed outside the village, not trapped here like an animal."

"So where are you sending him?"

"I'm sending him to Koka, it's only a half a day's travel from here so it's close enough for Naruto to still sense the safety of the village. So if needed he can be back in Konoha in no time, what with his speed and all."

"I see, and what about his position on border patrol?"

"I've already taken care of it."

"Alright then, is there anything else you want me to do?" Yawned Shikamaru.

"No you're dismissed Shikamaru, I'll send Shizune with everything you need shortly."

"Yes ma'am, I'll be waiting in the library."

Tsunade watched as Shikamaru left her office. Even though he complained often he was one of her best shinobi. She was relieved that she had his help. His superior intellect always gave Konoha the upper hand. She knew he'd help her decipher Sasuke's plan. Shikamaru closed the door on his way out leaving Tsunade alone with her thoughts.


Naruto nervously made sure everything in his apartment was in order. Sakura watched half amused as her boyfriend quickly paced back and forth in his living room. She herself was a little tense, but she had faith everything between her mother and Naruto would be alright. Suddenly Naruto's attention was focused on his front door, and few tense seconds later a soft knock was heard. Naruto looked over nervously at Sakura.

"Coming," said Sakura as she made her way towards the front door.

She opened the door and moved to the side, allowing her mother to come in. Sakura closed the door and lead Hanako into the living room where Naruto was waiting. He quickly bowed towards her when she approached him.

"Hello Haruno-san, thank you for stopping by," said Naruto.

After a few moments Naruto slowly stood up, and he was quite surprised to find Hanako smiling at his polite gesture.

She slowly approached him and wrapped her arms around him. His eyes widened as he felt Sakura's mother give him warm embrace.

"I'm so sorry Naruto," whispered Hanako. "I never gave you a chance because of the fear I have for what's inside you. I let ignorance and the influence of others cloud my own judgement. It was wrong of me to think I could force my daughter to abandon her love for you just because of my own stupid fears. I never bothered to learn anything about you, but I want that to change, so please Naruto, I ask you to forgive me for being such a fool."

"I'm not without blame myself Haruno-san. I should have manned up a long time ago. I shouldn't have avoided you like I did."

"I didn't make it easy for you though Naruto. As always my bossy behavior took charge, and I didn't even give you a chance to talk to my mom. Instead my immature behavior caused a rift between my relationship with my mom."

"Well, it looks like we all contributed to this situation in our own ways," said Hanako as she pulled away from Naruto.

"Agreed," replied Sakura.

"Why don't we all sit down," said Naruto.

Hanako took a seat in a small arm chair while Naruto and Sakura sat on the couch.

"Now then I promise I won't take up too much of your time, but there a few things I want to talk about."

"Of course mom, what's on your mind?"

"For starters where will you and the baby be living Sakura?"

"Well, Naruto and I decided it would be best if I live here with him for the time being. This will give us ample time to save up for a bigger apartment. Hopefully we can move out before the baby is born."

"I'm assuming Naruto is taking full financial responsibility for you, correct?

"Yes Haruno-san, I was recently promoted to jonin, so I'll be making enough money to support myself, Sakura-chan, and the baby. Plus I've set aside some money from past missions, and I have quite a bit saved up just in case," said Naruto.

"That's right mom, Naruto won't have a problem supporting us."

"We'll, I'm happy you've been saving up Naruto, I like that quality in a man."

The young couple smiled at each other, they were happy they had Hanako's approval thus far. Suddenly Sakura noticed her mother's expression become somber, and her wave of relief soon turned to dread.

"Now Naruto what would happen to Sakura and the baby if you were to die on a mission?"

"Mother!"

"Sakura this is a very serious question, you both are shinobi, and you of all people should know that each mission you take can be your last," said Hanako.

Sakura's heart sank, her mother was referring to her father. Sakura had no memories of him, all she knew was that he left on a mission, and never returned home. In reality Sakura never thought any real harm would ever come to Naruto.

In her eyes he was invincible, no one could ever kill him, right? Before she could dwell on this fear she heard Naruto speak.

"I'd do everything in my power to never to leave Sakura-chan and our unborn child alone Haruno-san, but you're right, I'm a jinchuriki and there will always be someone coming after the Kyuubi's power. Despite what Sakura-chan might think I've thought about the possibility of me dying, and I've found a solution that will ensure her being taken care of after my death."

"..."

"You see I'll be turning 18 this October which means I'll have access to my inheritance. I've never liked the thought of it, my parents already did so much for me the day I was born, but now I can put it to some goid use," said Naruto.

"Wait, you have an inheritance? Why didn't you tell me?"

Naruto winced at his pinkett's question. He looked down at her to see her vibrant jade eyes fixed on him.

"Sorry Sakura-chan, it's just something I really don't like talking about. I just found out about it last year after the war. I didn't think it was that important," replied Naruto sheepishly.

"Sakura, you can't get mad,or be hurt, at Naruto for his judgment. He did what he felt was right, now please Naruto, continue."

"Right, well I figure if anything ever happened to me I'd leave everything to Sakura-chan. Now that we know she's expecting I can rest easy knowing she and the baby will be taken care of financially. If something happens to me."

"I see, I must say Naruto I'm extremely happy that my daughter is in such good hands. I can't believe you'd leave your inheritance to her, but can you legally do that?"

"Yes, but there's a catch."

"And what would that be?"

"Sakura-chan would have to be my wife," said Naruto nervously.

"So marriage is the answer?"

"Yes, I've checked with Baa-chan and that's the only way this can work."

"I see."

"I know everything is moving fast Haruno-san, but I love your daughter. I understand if you're apprehensive with an answer, but I've made up my mind, I want to marry Sakura-chan.

"Naruto," whispered Sakura.

"It would be an honor to have your blessing, ma'am. "

Sakura couldn't believe what was happening. Not only had Naruto just announced that he wanted to marry her, but he had done it in front of her mother. Sakura was shell shocked, and she jumped when she heard her mother speak.

"What do you want Sakura?"

She remained silent for a few moments. Naruto and her mother's gaze was a little unsettling, but she had her answer.

"I...want to be with Naruto mom...now and forever."

"Really Sakura-chan?"

"Yes, that's what I truly want."

Hanako sighed, Naruto was right things truly were moving at a rapid pace, but this was her daughter's life, her choice, and as a mother she had to respect it.

"You're both still so young, and I'm not going to lie, things will be difficult. You're both going to have to learn that things aren't about either of you anymore, all that will matters now is your child. Despite our past encounters I'm pleased to say that I'm happy with you both. I'm confident that you'll make this work. My advice to you, is never forget the three crucial components to making relationship work."

"..."

"They are love, trust, and communication. As long as you abide by those three things you'll be able to do anything. So with that said, it's my pleasure, to give you both my blessing on your marriage. Keep loving each other, and everything will be alright," said Hanako.

She rose from her seat, as did Naruto and Sakura.

"Thank you so much mom," said Sakura as she embraced her.

Hanako lovingly kissed her forehead, and Naruto couldn't help but smile. Sakura's mother wasn't who he thought she was, and knowing that her relationship with Sakura was on the mend meant the world to him.

Just then he noticed Hanako extend her arm out towards him. He hesitated for a moment, but once he saw her hand calling him over he obeyed. He felt Hanako bring him into the warm embraced she shared with Sakura. Her lips softly kissed his whiskered cheek, and for a moment, his heart ached. Her show of motherly affection gave Naruto a glimpse of what having a mother must be like. After a few touching moments Hanako let them both go and returned to the armchair to pick up her bag.

"You're leaving already mom?"

"Yes Sakura, I have a few errands I need to run so I'll leave you two alone. What I wanted to discuss with you has been resolved so there's no point in me taking anymore of your time."

"Are you sure you don't want to stay for a cup of tea?"

"I'd would love that Sakura, but perhaps another time. I have other engagements to attend to."

"Alright then mom, thanks for stopping by," said Sakura as she led her mother towards to the front door.

"Oh there is one thing I forgot to mention Sakura. Could you please let me know when you have your next doctor's appointment? I'd like to be there to see my grandchild," said Hanako.

"Of course mom, I'll make sure to let you know."

"Alright then sweetheart until then, and goodbye Naruto."

"Goodbye Haruno-san, and thank you for being so understanding."

"Likewise Naruto."

With that said Sakura's mother walked out the front door leaving the young couple alone. Sakura looked at Naruto, and he in turn looked at her. A smile spread across his face and he laughed.

"Well that went well pretty damn well."

"You're telling me," sighed Sakura.

Naruto went back to the couch, and made himself comfortable. He closed his eyes as he let out a long drawn out sigh.

"You're mom's actually kinda nice. I seriously thought she was going to scold me you know, but she didn't, plus she didn't even mention walking in on us, thank god for that..."

Naruto paused when he felt Sakura's weight on his hips. He opened his eyes, and he couldn't help but smirked at what he saw. Seeing his pink haired beauty straddling him was one of his favorite sights. Sakura drew closer to him and playfully nipped and tugged at his bottom lip.

"So then Naruto, you really want me to be Mrs. Uzumaki Sakura?" Cooed Sakura.

"More than anything."

Sakura wrapped her arms around Naruto's neck and pulled him close. She kissed him and without hesitation Naruto kissed her back. Sakura rhythmically rocking her hips back and forth as she devoured Naruto's lips. The harsh friction she was producing made Naruto's groin throb with anticipation. He groaned into her mouth sending vibrations down her throat.

She quivered with excitement as she continued to torture him with her rocking hips. Naruto pulled her shirt up, and with a swift movement of his hands he yanked her bra upwards so that both her breasts pop out from their prison of fabric. He broke their heated kiss so that he could hoist Sakura higher onto his body.

Once he had better access to her chest he slowly took one of her breasts into his mouth. Sakura gasped as she relished in the sensation that pulsated through her body. She ran her fingers through Naruto's hair as he gently teased her nipple. She purred seductively, and Naruto's urge to take her was growing closer and closer, but a sudden chakra approached his front door. A soft knock on the front door snapped Sakura from their heated foreplay, she slid off of him and quickly fixed her bra and shirt.

"Shit, what if it's my mom," whispered Sakura.

Naruto huffed in frustration as he reluctantly stood up and readjusted himself.

"Don't worry, it's not."

He walked over to the door and opened it. There in front of him stood Sai. His pale teammate smiled politely at him.

"Hello Naruto-kun, I hope I'm not interrupting anything," said Sai.

"Actually," Naruto began.

He stopped when he heard Sakura softly scolding him from inside. He held back his urge to be rude and sighed in defeat.

"No Sai you're aren't interrupting anything, so what's up?"

"You're wanted at Hokage Tower. Tsunade-sama wants you to be prepared for a mission upon arrival. So make sure you take what you need because you won't be coming back home, you'll be leaving immediately."

"I'm going out on a mission?"

"It would seem so Naruto-kun. I'm not clear on all the details, I was merely ordered to come here and inform you to report to Tsunade-sama at once."

"Well how much am I supposed to pack? Do you at least know how long the mission will be?" Asked Naruto as he fixed his disheveled clothes.

"For three days tops, the length of your stay depends on how quickly you can complete your mission."

"Alright, easy enough."

"Good, sorry again for just dropping by so suddenly but it was really out of my hands Naruto-kun."

"It's alright Sai,don't worry about it."

Sai smiled and he waved goodbye as he made his way down the stairs. Naruto closed the door and saw Sakura still flushed from their quick moment of passion.

"You're leaving?"

The disappointment in her voice was quite apparent.

"Sure looks that way."

He passed Sakura and walked into his room to grab his gear. She followed and watched as he rapidly gathered everything he needed. She sighed softly and left him alone so he could pack. Naruto heard her leave and he couldn't help but feel bad. However there wasn't anything he could do, a mission was a mission. After a few minutes of double checking his gear Naruto was sure he was ready to leave.

He left his room so that he could say his goodbyes when he noticed Sakura sitting at the kitchen table. A small box bundle in cloth lay in front of her. She looked up at him and faintly smiled as he approached her. She stood up and placed the bundle in his hands.

"Here, I packed you some food for your mission, it's not much but it's high in carbohydrates. I also packed a small first aid kit, you may heal fast, but it's always good to have a kit in case someone else gets hurt. I packed special ointments I made myself so those should work great if you need them," said Sakura softly.

"Thanks Sakura-chan, now look, don't worry, okay. I'll be back sooner than you know, I promise," said Naruto as he kissed her softly on the lips.

"I know you will, just please be careful," pleaded Sakura.

"I will," whispered Naruto.

He began making his way out of his apartment when he remembered something. He walked back over to Sakura and knelt down in front of her. He lifted the bottom of her shirt up slightly and he kissed her exposed tummy tenderly.

"Keep your mom company okay," said Naruto softly.

He stood up and kissed Sakura once more. She returned his kiss and held him close.

"I love you Naruto."

"I love you guys too."

He let go of Sakura and headed towards the door. He looked back at her and gave her his classic goofy grin. Sakura slowly waved goodbye and the next thing she knew Naruto was gone.