*I DON'T OWN NARUTO*
Naruto shivered upon entering the operating room. It was freezing compared to the rest of the hospital. The smell of the disinfected room and sterile tools stung his nose. It was a smell he wasn't familiar with and the unknown scent triggered something inside him. He wasn't sure what the feeling was but as he approached Sakura he understood. The Kyuubi was just as unsure and on edge as he was. The two of them were displaying just how nervous and concerned they both were for Sakura and the baby. That realization, for some odd reason, sent a small wave of relief came over Naruto. It wasn't enough to totally ease the worry he had, but it offered him a sense of reassurance. It made him feel better that even the Kyuubi was nervous.
Shizune placed her hand on Naruto's shoulder as she helped guide him closer towards Sakura. Naruto looked over at the group of doctors that surrounded Tsunade. She was hovering over a table shrouded in medical blankets. At first, Naruto had no idea what he was looking at, but as he got closer he realized that everyone was hovering over Sakura. All of her body was covered with hospital blankets. The only part of her that wasn't hidden was her upper torso.
Shizune led Naruto to a chair that was placed right by Sakura. As soon as he was seated Shizune joined the team of doctors that were on the other side of the sheet. Sakura turned her head so that she could look at Naruto. He faintly smiled at her as she motioned him to hold her hand. She interlaced her fingers with his as if she was making she he was really by her side.
"I can't believe this day is really here," whispered Sakura. "This is all happening so fast."
There was a hint of fear in voice. Naruto could tell she was just as scared as he was, if not more so since she was the one on the operating table.
"Hey, it's alright. You know Baa-chan isn't going to let anything happen to our son."
"I know, I just can't help but feel bad. I'm not full term Naruto, he's coming prematurely, and it's all because I used too much of my own chakra to heal Shikamaru."
"I don't take my actions back, I couldn't let our friend die, but at the same time I'm not sure I can forgive myself if my choice somehow hurts our son."
"Shhh Sakura-chan it's alright. You did the right thing by healing Shikamaru. Our son is going to be alright, I mean look at who is parents are. I can tell he's just as tough as his mother and father," said Naruto.
"Naruto…"
"Just relax, Sakura-chan."
He bent down and kissed her forehead. He wished he could do more but this small gesture of all love was all he was able to do.
"I'll do my best Naruto.."
She took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly, relaxing was clearly easier said than done, but she tried none the less. Sakura looked down at her abdomen, but a large sheet that was being suspended by clips that came from the ceiling was blocking her view. All she could do was listen to the team of doctors that were on the other side. The spinal tap she had received just a few minutes earlier was taking effect. Her body was heavy, and she couldn't even feel if she had legs. She tried wiggling her toes and even though she was sure she was doing it she felt nothing and that in itself was scary. Sakura continued to watch her breathing, the last thing she wanted was to have a panic attack.
"Alright, Sakura I'm going to begin. Remember you'll feel movement and pressure but no pain. If that does happen please let us know."
"Yes, Tsunade-sama."
Naruto leaned over to his left so that he could look over the sheet that was covering Sakura, but he wasn't able to see what was going on. All he could see where the doctors all standing over her. Suddenly the smell of burnt flesh hit his nose. It was an odd order and at first, he wasn't sure what it was but he then remembered what Sakura had told him before she left for the operating room. That odor he smelled was that of her flesh burning. The thought was nauseating but Sakura had explained the entire produce so that he wouldn't be left in the dark.
"I've been Tsunade's assistant in several C-sections so I am familiar with goes on Naruto. For starters, the procedure itself is faster than you might think. Once I'm ready for surgery Tsunade-sama will use a special tool that shoots out a laser. With it, she will burn the layer of fat that is located in my lower abdomen. Using the laser cauterizes the wound and will keep me from bleeding too much. Of course, I won't feel anything but once she burns through enough fat she will stop and then she will use a scalpel to cut through my uterus so that she can reach the baby. After that, she just has to pull him out."
Sakura squeezed Naruto's hand. He stroked a stray hair out of her face and did his best to confront her. A few murmured whispered came from behind the sheets and then suddenly a high pitched cry filled the operating room. Naruto held his breath.
"Time of birth is 10:33am," replied Tsunade. "You did wonderfully Sakura. This little man looks healthy, if I didn't know any better I'd say he was a full term baby."
The tiny infant wailed as he was removed from his warm home within his mother. Naruto looked over the surgical sheets, and he couldn't believe his eyes. There in Tsunade's arms was their son. The sight was beyond surreal, and Naruto watched his son be whisked away in silence. Sakura's soft cries snapped him out of his moment of astonishment. He looked down at her as she softly cried tears of joy.
"I can hear him Naruto."
"You did it Sakura-chan."
"Is he okay?"
"I'm sure he is, just listen to him," replied Naruto. "It sounds to me like he's got a healthy set of lungs."
Naruto looked over once more to see that his son was now being doted over by two of the nurses who had been waiting in one of the corners of the room. From what Naruto could gather their son was getting cleaned up and measured. The newborn continued to cry the entire time until a small oxygen mask was placed over his mouth.
"He's getting oxygen I think," said Naruto as he continued to watch the nurses work on their son.
"Yes that's normal," replied Sakura. "It's just to help him since he wasn't born naturally."
After a few minutes, the oxygen mask was removed and the tiny newborn was quickly swaddled in fresh new blankets. A small hat was placed over his head and one of the nurses picked him up and took him over towards Naruto.
"He looks just like his daddy," replied the nurse. She bent down slightly towards Naruto, offering him the tiny crying bundle. "Here's your son."
Naruto looked at the nurse and then at the crying infant. He hesitated for a moment, he had never held a baby before and he was completely lost on what to do. The nurse had seen Naruto's expression on almost every new fathers face. She bent down closer towards him and showed him how she was holding the baby.
"Here, just hold him like this, and mind his head," the nurse explained as she handed the baby to Naruto.
He gently took his son from her and he couldn't believe what he saw. His son was indeed a spitting image of him, he even had whiskers. The baby boy started crying once more and Naruto brought him down towards Sakura's face.
"Oh my god, he's beautiful Naruto. He looks just like you."
"Yeah he does," replied Naruto in awe.
"My sweet baby boy don't cry," whispered Sakura.
The sound of her voice made the infant's cries die down and after a few moments, he stopped crying completely.
"That's right my little Kaito, stop your crying. Your mommy and daddy are right here."
"Kaito?"
"Yeah, I never got a chance to tell you that I decided on a name while you were away those three weeks. Do you like it?"
"Yeah, I think it suits him."
Sakura planned a soft kiss on her son's forehead as tears of joy rolled down the side of her face. Naruto couldn't help but tear up as well. Sakura had done so much to bring their son into this world. His admiration and respect for her had grown even more. She was an amazing human being and thanks to her efforts Naruto had a family, a complete family. Kaito began to cry once more but his parents were busy sharing a kiss with one another. So many emotions were running rampant through Naruto's mind as he lovingly kissed his wife. He knew it couldn't last, especially with his clones vivid memories still fresh in his mind, but he just wanted to have this moment with her.
Sasuke's cold stare and menacing promise echoed in his subconscious, but he didn't want to dwell on those thoughts, not now. He wanted to be here with Sakura and their baby, he wanted his life to be normal for once, but it never was, nor was it ever going to be, and Naruto accept that. It wasn't Sakura's, nor their son's fault, that their lives would always run the risk of being in danger. He was who he was, after all, and there was no changing that. However his views on who he was had changed dramatically over time and he now embraced who was, bijuu and all.
His parent's sacrifice had turned him into the man he was now, and while his younger version wouldn't understand the gift they gave him, his older version knew exactly what their lasts actions on this Earth really meant. Life, they wanted him to live. Both his mother and father had faced hardships before his birth. His mother was a wanted prize because of the Kyuubi that was within her, while his father was the 4th Hokage, however, those two things never stopped them from loving one another, nor did it stop them from wanting a family. Now Naruto had what his parents had lost, and he wanted to make sure their sacrifice wasn't in vain. He was going to live the best life he possibly could with his family.
"I love you," he whispered.
"I love you too Naruto."
The three of them shared a few more moments together when the nurse politely spoke.
"I'll be taking him to the nursery now. You'll see him again once you're out of recovering Sakura."
"Yes, of course, Eska-san," replied Sakura. "Naruto I need you to go with Eska."
"What? Are you sure you want me to leave?"
"Yes, I'm not by myself, Tsunade-sama and Shizune are here with me. I'm in good hands, and our son is now in yours. Go with him."
Naruto looked down once more at his son and realized where Sakura was coming from. He leaned in once more and kissed her goodbye.
"We'll see you soon," replied Naruto as he rose from his chair.
The nurse led Naruto outside the operating room where a small bassinet was waiting.
"Go ahead and place him inside. We'll be heading towards the nursery."
"Alright," said Naruto as he gently placed his son down.
Eska then pushed the bassinet down the hallway. Naruto looked around the hallway they were in. They were using the back hallway that was used specifically for medical personal. Finally after a few twists and turns they arrived at the hospital's nursery. The soft cries of newborn babies filled the long hallway and new fathers were standing in front of a large window that showed the babies inside the nursery. They proudly pointing out their newborns to friends and family. Eska swiped her id badge through the doors mechanical lock and a high pitched beep signified that the door was unlocked. She opened it and with Naruto's help they got the bassinet inside.
"Suki-sama I'm here with the Uzumaki baby, could you get his file ready, he needs to be examined."
"Of course Eska," said an older woman who was seated at a desk inside the nursery.
She looked through a list of files neatly stacked on her desk. She found the one that had Uzumaki on it and took it from the pile of paperwork.
"Sakura was processed very quickly, I hope everything went well?"
"Yes she's still in the operating room being stitched up, but she should be in recovery soon."
"Well, that's good to hear," replied Suki as she approached Eska and Naruto. She put on her glasses to get a better look at Kaito.
"Naruto this is Damuke Suki, she's the head nurse here in the nursery. She's been doing this for over 40's years."
"Yes and I couldn't be happier, I love my job," said Suki as she looked Kaito over.
Naruto bowed towards to older woman.
"Well now isn't he adorable, congratulations Naruto"
"Thank you."
"Now let's make sure this little one makes his way back to you and Sakura shall we," said Suki as she reached inside the manila folder. "Though I must say it's obvious that he's your son just by his looks, but this is hospital procedure."
She pulled out two plastic hospital bracelets and handed a much smaller one to Eska. She then motioned Naruto to give her his right hand. He did as he was told and she clasped on a bracelet that matched Kaito's. His last name was written on it followed by an array of numbers.
"Sakura has a bracelet just like yours and your sons. Every time he is brought into your room you must show that your bracelets match. This is done to ensure that each baby goes to their parents. We wouldn't want to mix up children and parents. Now you're more than welcomed to stay if you'd like because your son cannot leave the nursery until he can keep his body temperature up on his own. It usually takes most infants an hour to do this."
"I'd love to stay, but can I have a few moments with him?"
"Of course Naruto, he is your son after all," replied Suki.
Both she and Eska went further back into the nursery which left Naruto alone with Kiato. He looked down at his son who was cooing softly in the bassinet. He carefully picked him up and held him in his arms. He never thought that holding his son would cause him to be experiencing so many feelings at once, but above all, he knew he had to protect him at all costs. Suddenly Kaito began to get agitated and his soft cries startled Naruto. He nervously looked around for help but both nurses were tending to the other babies in the nursery. He felt hopeless, but after a few moments his instincts kicked in and Naruto rocked his son to keep him from crying.
"Shhh come on son, have mercy on me," pleaded Naruto. "Are you hungry? If you are I'm sorry, I'm not your mom, but you'll be with your mommy real soon, so shhh please stop crying."
After a few moments of rocking Kaito's crying died down and Naruto sighed in relief.
"We're going to have to work as a team, alright? You see I'm not exactly father material per say. I mean, I'm a big kid, I'm reckless, and loud, heck your mother still gets's mad at me for not putting the toilet seat down, but, you're here now and there's no going back to that sweet pad you had inside your mom. So please just bear with me Kaito? I need to get use to all this daddy stuff okay?"
The familiar sound of Naruto's voice put the infant at ease added with the swaying motion he felt in his father's arms made the infant relax and in a matter of seconds, he was sound asleep.
"Just look at you, not a care in the world," said Naruto as he gently stroked his son's face. "You have no idea what's going on right now, and it isn't your fault that you were born into your mother and mines drama, but I promise nothing's going to happen to you, or your mom. I know I just told you just some of my bad habits and shortcomings but it just so happens that your dad is a pretty awesome shinobi. I'm strong, fearless, and courageous, plus let's not forget that I'm going to be Hokage too," Naruto lightly chuckled. "I've even saved the world kiddo, and it looks like I have to do that again because you and your mother are my world. The both of you are my everything."
Naruto's thoughts went back to Sakura at that moment. He felt bad that she wasn't able to hold Kaito nor was she here right now. Before he could dwell on those thoughts he looked down at Kaito and he couldn't help but smile.
"I can't wait for you, to meet your mom. Your first meeting with her was really short, but just wait, soon you'll learn just how amazing she really is. She's given me something I never thought I'd ever have, love, and a family. Her belief and love for me are what makes me a formidable match to anyone who threatens my loved ones, and now with you here, I'll be unstoppable Kaito. I'll keep you and your mother safe, no matter what the cost."
The first thing he felt was a sharp ache in the chest that shot through his back shoulder blade. He tried to open his eyes but they were still heavy due to the morphine running through his veins. After a few more attempts he was able to see his surrounding. At first, all he saw was the ceiling above him. He looked down at his body and he saw that he was in a medical gown. Adrenaline started coursing through his body when he realized he was in the hospital. Shikamaru began to panic. He had no clue how he had gotten there, nor did he know what his team's current situation was. He desperately tried to remember his last thoughts, but his mind was a sea of mist, it was difficult to see clearly.
Suddenly Temari's fear stricken face popped into his mind. He remembered feeling her shake his body while calling his name, after that all he saw was darkness. The creaking noise of the door to his room opening caught his attention. He turned his head to see who was coming in. A young women walked in, she was holding a pitcher of water and a glass in each hand. Her head was hung low as she approached him. At first, Shikamaru thought he was seeing things but as she got closer he realized just who it was.
"Ino?" Asked Shikamaru as he slowly propped himself up in bed.
His girlfriends head snapped up and their eyes met, but before Shikamaru could say a thing Ino dropped the pitcher and glass. They crashed onto to the floor as she ran towards Shikamaru's bedside. Before he knew it she threw herself into his chest.
"You jerk! You big stupid jerk! Don't you ever scare me like that again Shikamaru!" Cried Ino.
Shikamaru winced in pain but he allowed Ino to remain on him. She wrapped her arms around his neck tightly and buried her face in the crook of his neck. She sobbed uncontrollably as she held him close.
"Ino calm down I..."
"I thought I had lost you Shikamaru!"
"Ino.."
"I started thinking about all the petty little things we fight about. I thought about how often I scold you or boss you around. I can be such a bitch to you sometimes, but that doesn't stop you from treating me like a princess. Today I learn just how much I take you for granted Shikamaru. I've always seen you as invincible, but today I realized that you're just as human as I am," said Ino as she pulled herself away from him.
She gently placed her hand over his bandaged shoulder. Your wound was so close to your heart, and one of your main arteries was served, but Sakura did a great job at patching you up. The doctor told me you were beyond lucky. You lost so much blood."
"Don't you dare do this to me ever again.
"You make it sound like I did this on.."
But his sentence was cut short due to Ino silencing him with her lips. She kissed him slowly, which was something she didn't do too often. Usually Ino was always hot and heated when it came to making out, but this time, it was different. She was pouring her heart into this one kiss and Shikamaru wasted no time in kissing her back. They remained like that for just a few moments, mostly because Shikamaru was still in a lot of pain.
"I love you Shikamaru," whispered Ino.
"I love you too, and I'm sorry if I don't say that enough, but you know that you mean the world to me Ino."
"I know, but I'm sure saying it is just too troublesome isn't it?"
"Nothing is ever too troublesome if it has to do with you, but don't go telling anyone I said that."
"I don't think anyone would believe me if I did," replied Ino as she wiped her tears away. She smiled at Shikamaru, she was beyond relieved that he was alright.
"Now Ino I don't want you to think that I'm rushing this moment we're having right now, but you need to clear some things up for me."
Ino sighed at Shikamaru's smart aleck remark. Usually, she'd snap at him but right now she was thrilled to hear his witty remark.
"What do you want to know?"
"Well for starters how the hell did I get here?"
"Sakura used one of her summons to bring you here."
"Please tell me she's alright."
"I wish I could but I'm not sure. She arrived at the hospital a few minutes after you did, but Naruto was the one that brought her in. It looked like she was going into labor."
"Shit..."
"Shikamaru how do you get so badly hurt, and what happened to everyone else?"
"I can only tell you what happened to Temari and I. I have no idea what happened to everyone else."
"I had a hunch that Suna would be attacked since there was a time frame for the antidote to fully work. Sure enough, a bomb went off near a tea shop Temari and I were in. I was hit by a piece of stray wood that was sent flying as shrapnel. The building was engulfed in flames and before we could escape we came face to face with some kind of freakish monster."
"Monster?"
"Yeah, I don't know how else to describe it. It was huge with pale like skin and long creepy looking arms. Temari and I were able to take it out but it wasn't easy. I passed out right after that.""
Ino gasped when she heard just what exactly Shikamaru had seen.
"Oh my god," whispered Ino.
"What?"
"Naruto fought one of those things earlier this morning."
"What?!"
"I was having trouble sleeping. Our apartment just felt off, like I was being watched, so I packed a few things and headed over to Naruto's. I figured I could stay with him until you got back. I had an uneasy feeling the entire walk there, and when I got to Naruto's he was on edge too. A few moments later something crashed into his apartment. It was one of those monsters. It destroyed Naruto's place, but he eventually killed it. There were five in total."
"Shit," muttered Shikamaru.
"It doesn't end there."
"Naruto figured out that someone was controlling the creatures from within the village. It turns out it was that woman who attacked Konoha a few months ago. You know the crazy one whose mind I had to take over for a few moments?"
"That lady was the one controlling them?"
"Yeah, I'm not too sure on the details, I wasn't there when Naruto confronted her."
"Leave it to him to rush to things," sighed Shikamaru.
"Yeah, he was pissed."
"So do you know what happened to her?"
"Naruto and Tenten stopped her and Naruto had her sealed inside one of his summons."
"Well at least she's been taken care of, but I'm guessing the one I encountered wasn't under her control. Why the hell did I have to pass out," groaned Shikamaru as he grabbed the sides of his head. "I don't have a damn clue about what happened while I was out cold, I failed everyone."
"Stop it Shikamaru, you can't blame yourself, you lost a lot of blood. I saw how hard those monster were to take down. Naruto had to use Sage mode in order to kill them. If you were fighting one with that wound passing out was inevitable."
"But I should have been better prepared Ino. It was my responsibility to take care of everyone, and I didn't fulfill that task."
"You did everything you could Shikamaru. Besides Naruto had a backup plan."
"He what?"
"Sakura had a scroll that held one of his sage mode clones inside it. She was instructed to use if things got bad. I'm sure she was able to summon him. Naruto told me this clone of his is not your run of the mill clone. It's much stronger and I'm confident that he took care of whatever is going on in Suna."
"I can't believe Naruto actually thought ahead."
"Well, maybe you're rubbing off on him."
"Maybe I am," replied Shikamaru as he relaxed in bed.
"Look Shikamaru I'm sure Sakura can fill us in on what happened. Oh, my god. I should really check up on her. I was so worried about you that I completely forgot about her," said Ino.
A hint of panic laced her voice.
"Then go and check in on her."
"Are you sure you'll be fine Shikamaru?"
"Yeah I'm alright, but, when you see Naruto tell him I want to speak to him when he has a chance."
"Alright, Shikamaru I'll be back as soon as I know what's going on with Sakura and the baby."
"Sure thing, you know where to find me."
Shikamaru watched as Ino quickly left the room. He sighed heavily as he sank back into bed. His thoughts went back to his last memories. Temari's look of fear and concern was burned into his mind. He felt horrible, he had no clue what had happened to her, the rest of his team, or Suna itself. The mission was a failure and he was the one in charge of it. He hoped his comrades were safe. He would never forgive himself if anything happened to any of them.
"Dammit, not again," Shikamaru muttered.
Naruto walked out of the nursery. He had stayed to watch his son go through a list of blood test and examinations. Everything had cleared out with Kaito, he was as healthy as can be. Now Naruto was waiting for Sakura's room to become available. Part of him felt as if he was wasting time. Nothing had been done yet when it came to discussing a possible plan with his peers, but he couldn't leave Sakura alone, not just yet. He sighed heavily as he tried to fix his shirt. He was still wearing the scrubs he was given and they weren't very comfortable. It was time for them to come off.
Naruto walked around the maternity ward in search of a restroom. He made his way down another hallway as he looked for some signs on the wall that would lead him to the restrooms. He was horrible at gaining his bearings in buildings, especially from memory. Sakura would often tease him about not knowing his way around the hospital. Naruto never denied the fact that he was hopeless in this department. He was in the hospital all the time, what with it being Sakura's place of employment and with him being a very frequent patient, but his sense of direction sucked. Finally after a few moments of searching Naruto found a map that showed him where he was.
Upon examining it he learned there was restroom next to the maternity waiting room and it wasn't far from where he was. He made his way towards his destination and soon he saw the waiting room coming into view. Suddenly he faintly felt a familiar chakra. He shook his head and froze. His mind was occupied with so many thoughts that he hadn't noticed the chakra at all. He ran towards the waiting room to find Hanako nervously sitting alone in one of the chairs.
"Hanako-san?"
"Oh my god Naruto," replied Hanko as she rose from her chair.
"How did you know to come here?" Asked Naruto as he approached her.
"Your friend Neji told me you brought Sakura to the hospital in a hurry. I rushed over here as quickly as possible. How is she? Is she hurt? How's the baby?"
"The baby and Sakura-chan are fine Hanako-san."
"She gave birth then?" Asked Hanako as she looked at the medical scrubs Naruto was wearing.
"Yeah, but through surgery, her labor was progressing too fast so she couldn't deliver the baby naturally."
"Where is she now?"
"In recovering. They told me I would be informed once she got a room, which should be really soon now."
"She had the baby," Hanako whispered.
"Yeah, and he's amazing," replied Naruto.
Hanako began to cry tears of joy and relief. She hugged Naruto tightly as she wept into his chest.
"I'm so happy they're alright. When I heard Sakura was rushed in here by you I automatically feared the worse," said Hanako looked up at Naruto. She wiped her fresh tears from her eyes so that she could she could better focus her vision on Naruto.
"What on Earth happened Naruto? How in the world did Sakura get here? I thought she was in Suna."
"It's a long and complicated story Hanako-san, but I'll give you the shortened version. Sakura-chan went into early labor because she was using her medical abilities to heal Shikamaru. She was able to get him stable, but her body went haywire afterward. You see my chakra is different, it's not like a normal human being. It's far more powerful since it's mixed with the Kyuubi's chakra" said Naruto as he reached for his stomach. "Our son has that same raw power, and Sakura's own chakra couldn't get back into balance because of the imbalance the baby was causing. That's why her labor was progressing so fast. She used one of her slug summons to bring her back home so she could get to the hospital."
"I still don't understand, why was she healing Shikamaru? What happened to him, and why didn't she just stay in Suna? I don't know much about reverse summoning but I do know that it has its risks."
"Suna was attacked by the same creatures I encountered this morning. Shikamaru was gravely injured by one of them, but he's okay thanks to Sakura-chan. She sent him over here with one of her summons as well, but I haven't had a chance to check in on him. "
"Thank goodness for that, but what happened to the rest of Sakura's team?"
"Everyone is alright Hanako-san. They'll be arriving here once Suna receives reinforcements from the alliance."
"That's great news, but, I can't believe those monsters were in Suna as well. What in the world is happening Naruto? Why are all these attacks happening?"
"Sasuke is trying to bring down the great shinobi villages."
"What?"
"He was the one leading the attack in Suna."
"Oh god no. This can't be happening," whispered Hanako.
"I'm afraid it's true."
"What are we going to do Naruto?"
"You're going to leave everything to me. I can't have you or Sakura-chan worrying about this. I need you to help her focus on being a mom. She needs to keep her mind on taking care of the baby. I'll handle the rest."
"Naruto…"
"It's alright Hanako-san, I've got this," reassured Naruto as he smiled at her.
Hanako couldn't believe how calm and cool headed Naruto was. When she saw how confident he was she knew he could do it.
"Hanako-san can I ask you a favor?"
"Yes of course."
"Could you please head over to our apartment and get a few things for Sakura-chan? I'll be busy, and I won't have the chance to do that. She was all excited about packing her hospital bag for the big day, but she didn't pack one since her due date was still a few months away."
"Sure Naruto I can do that, but if you don't mind asking what will you be doing?"
"I'll be touching base everyone. We all have bits of information but as of right now it's all scattered. We need to regroup so that we can come up with a plan of action."
"When will you be leaving?"
" After Sakura-chan is reunited with Kaito."
"Kaito? Is that what you named him?"
"Yeah, Sakura-chan had it picked out but she never got to tell me. Do you want to meet him?"
"Yes, of course, more than ever," said Hanako.
"Alright just give me a second to take these off," replied Naruto as he jogged towards the restroom.
Hanako waited for him in the waiting room when she saw someone she recognized come around the corner.
"Ino," said Hanako.
"Hanako-san," replied Ino as she walked up to her. "How's Sakura?"
"I haven't seen her yet, but Naruto told me everything went smoothly. She's waiting in recovery for a room to become available so that she can be transferred."
"Where's Naruto?"
"He's in the restroom."
"So Sakura had the baby?"
"Yes, Naruto was actually taking me to the nursery to see him."
"Thank god, I was so worried about Sakura, but I was with Shikamaru."
"Naruto told me what happened to him, how bad were his injuries?"
"Bad enough to keep him here for a few days. He'll be out of commission for a while even after he's sent home, but things could have been far worse," said Ino. "I don't think I'll ever be able to thank Sakura enough for what she did. If it weren't for her my Shikamaru wouldn't be here right now."
"I remember how badly I was against Sakura becoming a kunoichi. I was afraid I'd lose her like I lost her father, but now I understand how her choice in life has affected others. She's an important asset to this village. I'm starting to realize just how important her role as Tsunade's protege is. She's saved so many people's lives with her medical knowledge. I never imagined she'd become someone who has that kind of power. I'm extremely proud of her."
"You and me both," replied Ino.
Just then Naruto reappeared from the restroom. He saw Ino and Hanako talking and a wave of relief came over him when he noticed Ino smiling. He knew Shikamaru was fine for sure if Ino was here.
"Hey Ino," said Naruto as he made his way towards her.
"So I heard you sons finally here."
"Yeah we're about to see him, you want to come with us?"
"Yes! Oh, I can't wait to see him," squealed Ino.
"Alright just follow me, oh and here are the keys to our apartment Hanako-san."
"Thank you Naruto as soon as I'm done here I'll head over there."
The three of them then made the trip to the hospital nursery. It wasn't far from where they were but the trip still gave Naruto a chance to talk to Ino.
"So how's Shikamaru?"
"Physically he's doing alright, but he lost a lot of blood. He was given a blood transfusion as soon as he arrived, I'm guessing that's what allowed him to wake up."
"And mentally?"
"He's crushed Naruto. He might not show it but I know he's extremely disappointed in himself. You know how seriously he takes his missions, especially if he's team captain. I think he's having flashbacks of the first mission he was in charge of."
"Sasuke's retrieval mission," whispered Naruto.
"Yeah, he was devastated that everyone else got hurt and all he suffered was a broken finger."
"I remember, I had never seen him like that before."
"It was bad, but he got over it with time. Hopefully, you can talk some sense into him, I don't want him falling into a funk," said Ino.
"Me talking some sense into Shikamaru, now that's something you don't hear every day, but don't worry Ino, I'll talk to him."
Soon the cry of infants in the distance showed they were reaching their destination. Ino and Hanako picked up their pace and eagerly made their way to the large see through glass that covered the front of the nursery. Naruto followed behind them and as soon as he caught up to them Ino screamed with joy.
"Oh my god there he is!
She pointed towards the middle row of infants. Hanako joined her as she looked at her new grandson.
"Oh my god just look at his little face, he has whiskers," Ino squealed.
"He's so precious," whispered Hanako.
She reached into her purse and pulled out a tissue. She used it to dab the corners of her eyes as they began to fill with tears again. "Naruto, he's literally a clone of you. Congratulations."
"Yeah Naruto congratulations," added Ino.
Both women sandwiched him between them as they hugged him. Eska caught of glimpse of them from inside the nursery and she rushed out to give them some news.
"You came just in time Naruto. Sakura has been placed in a room. She's ready to see a few guests and the baby. You're more than welcome to go there now if you'd like. I still have to get some paperwork for you son filed but I'll bring him to her room shortly."
"I think Ino and I will wait here. You go ahead of us Naruto, we can walk with the nurse to Sakura's room once she's done with her paperwork."
"Yeah, Naruto go see Sakura. You both need to talk."
"Thanks, ladies. Where's Sakura-chan's room, Eska?"
"It's room 309 Naruto just keep going down this hallway You'll start to notice rooms a little further down."
"Thanks," said Naruto as he ran down the hall.
"That was really sweet of you Hanako-san."
"Well, it's the least I can do. This is going to be one of their last moments alone for a very long time. They have a lot to talk about. I know they won't be able to resolve everything, but it's better than nothing," replied Hanako.
Naruto hastily made his way down the hallway and sure enough, he could see hospital rooms up ahead. He glanced at the first room he passed and saw that it was number 298. He could see that the hallway came to a dead end so that meant Sakura's room was one of the last ones. Naruto picked up his speed since there wasn't anyone in the hall with him. He saw room 309 and he bolted inside. Sakura gasped when Naruto ran inside. His entrance had really caught her off guard.
"Naruto."
"Hey Sakura-chan," said Naruto.
He gave her a big grin as he took a few moments to catch his breath.
Sakura sighed, her big idiot really had a way with words. Here she was in a hospital bed fresh out of surgery and his first words to her were Hey Sakura-chan. He would never change, but his awkward behavior when it came to situations like this always made Sakura smile.
"So how are you feeling?" Asked Naruto as he made his way towards her bedside.
"I'm in a lot of pain, but it's nothing I can't handle."
"You're in pain? Isn't there stuff they can give you for that?"
"Yes, but I can't take pain medication all the time. I can only take it every few hours. I'm going to be breastfeeding Kaito and everything that is in my system is passed to him through my milk. I can't be on too many medications now."
"Really? I didn't know that," said Naruto as he pulled a nearby chair closer to Sakura's bed.
"It's the same reason why I had to watch what I ate when I was pregnant. Remember how I had to stay away from spicy food?"
"Yeah," replied Naruto.
An awkward silence filled the room. There was so much to say but neither one of them knew where to start. Finally, Sakura decided to break the ice.
"Naruto?"
"Yeah?"
"What are we going to do? Sasuke-kun knows about Kaito, and now I'm powerless to protect him, I can't even defend myself," whispered Sakura. "We need a plan and we need it now. I don't want to lose our son,"
"Sakura-chan that's not going to happen. I'm sorry for sounding like a broken record all the time, but you need to leave the worrying to me, especially right now. Your job is to take care of Kaito, you're his mother, and as his father, I will protect you both, I swear it."
"Naruto…"
"Now listen to me, I'm going to be gone for a little bit."
"You're leaving?"
"Yes, but I'm not leaving Konoha."
"Naruto you can't leave me here alone."
"I want to be selfish and stay, but there's a lot I have to do."
"It's alright to be selfish, especially right now."
"No, I can't Sakura-chan. Kaito will be here with you soon and your mom and Ino are coming as well, so you see, you won't be alone."
"It's not the same, though. I wanted today to be perfect and it's far from it Naruto, why can't we just have today?"
Sakura whimpered and tears rolled down her cheeks. Naruto's heart sank when he saw her cry, he couldn't stand to see her like this.
"Don't make this harder than it already is Sakura-chan, please don't cry," pleaded Naruto.
He wiped her tears and gently turned her face towards him.
"Look at me Sakura-chan. Today might not have turned out the way you originally wanted it too, but, it's still perfect in its own way."
"Kaito's here, he's healthy, and you're alive. That to me is perfection."
"Naruto..."
He leaned over to hug her. He was mindful of her condition and he held her gently as she cried.
"I saw what happened In Suna. I know the threat we're facing, that's why I have to go. I need to gather everyone so that I can get them all up to date on what happened. The alliance needs to be notified about Sasuke as well. You said we need a plan, and that's what I'm working on."
"Your clone released itself?"
"Yes."
"What happened after I left Naruto?"
"Did you talk to Sasuke-kun? What did he say?"
"It's better that you don't know Sakura-chan, and I'm asking you to please respect my decision."
"I understand," sighed Sakura as she leaned against Naruto. She stopped her crying sooner than Naruto thought. Not because she was over everything but because she was exhausted, physically and mentally. Even the sheer act of crying was draining her. Suddenly a soft knock at the door caught both their attentions. Sakura wiped the rest of her tears from her face. Naruto helped her get comfortable and she watched in anticipation as Eska pushed Kaito's bassinet into the room. Ino and Hanako weren't far behind. Hanako quickly approached Sakura's bedside. While Ino sat by a small recliner in the room.
"Sakura honey, how you holding up?"
"Good, but now that you're here mom I feel even better."
Eska went over and checked Sakura's bracelet number. Once she verified it matched Kaito's she went over to the bassinet to fetch him. She picked him up and handed him over to Sakura. The pink hair kunoichi took her son into her arms. She loving stroked his head as she looked him over. Naruto leaned over her so that he could get a better look at their baby.
"See I told you you'd be with your mom," whispered Naruto.
Kaito stirred at the sound of Naruto's voice. Sakura rocked him gently in her arms. She looked up at Naruto, and he looked back at her in return.
"You're right Naruto, today is perfect," said Sakura as she kissed the man she loved with all her heart.
