Author's Notes
So sorry for the delay, lol lately I seem to start every note with apologies. Anyhow, I hope I still have some readers following this story. Enjoy. This is the last chapter~
Naruto felt his eyes water a little as a smile sprayed on his lips. It's been a while since he woke up with this feeling of happiness swirling inside of him. Life was good. He has finally obtained the thing that made him whole again. Shuffling before his eyes was Sasuke as his small body fit perfectly in Naruto's arms. The blond felt his smile extend into a grin. How long has he waited for this moment, to embrace the love of his life without any restrictions? He never felt so serene before. Sasuke's face twisted into a scowl, his small frame whimpered and alarm went off inside Naruto's head.
This had happened before. Their fourth night away from Tsunade's mountain, Sasuke started showing signs of change. Tsunade and the gods' words came floating to his head then; 'Sasuke won't be the same'. Since the raven haired male didn't show any signs of memory loss or personality-changes early on, Naruto thought he was good to go. Yet when Sasuke started groaning and moaning, trashing around in bed whilst asking to be forgiven, the blond realized something was still wrong.
What he was able to conjure from Sasuke's mindless whimpers; was that his new found soul had bits and pieces of the previous two souls. At times, Sasuke would remember his time when he was a coldblooded killing machine and would ask Naruto for forgiveness – the blond could only imagine the horror the other felt inside his dreams, so when that'd happen, Naruto made sure to always remind Sasuke he was a good person now and that his sins have long been atoned for. At other times, Sasuke would remember the life of isolation, he'd grow awfully quiet and withdraw away from Naruto's company. Naruto was able to detect those small changes and made sure Sasuke was never left alone. Taking care of Sasuke wasn't draining him or making him lose focus, he felt like all his efforts didn't come an ounce close to what Sasuke had done for him.
The blond circled his arms around Sasuke and with a pat on that tiny back, he whispered reassuring words.
"You're forgiven, Sasuke, it's alright, I'm here, you don't need to fear anything anymore."
Sasuke's troubled features seemed to relax after that. Naruto glanced with the corners of his eyes at the clock and it read 5:30 in the morning, it was still early so he pulled the covers over them and decided to get more sleep.
Not long after, it was time for them to get up. Sasuke was the first to awake with the alarm clock, when he finished his morning routine, he went and woke the sleeping blond. Naruto didn't waste time in dragging the fully clothed Sasuke back to bed, wrinkling his clothes, before he was harshly kicked in the nuts to get the hell up. The blond had a couple of observations about this new and improved Sasuke. First, he was short-tempered, witty and smart. Second, he had a little childish side to him, the blond relied that to the young age he was in right now, it just made Sasuke cuter in his eyes.
Naruto went down the stairs, yawning. He met his father and with a nod, hurried to freshen up before Minato could comment on his tardy self. Thirty minutes later found him sitting with a toast in his mouth, having breakfast. Sasuke was by his side eating whilst Minato was nowhere to be found. The blond calculated that his father might have gone to work, after all, he was very late. Glancing at the raven haired male by his side, Naruto teased.
"You really don't like eating without me."
Sasuke continued munching as if nothing was said. The blond teased further, his mouth turning into a smile.
"Who would have thought the great Uchiha Sasuke couldn't dine a meal without my presence?"
This seemed to irk the child a little as he was about to up and leave the table, but Naruto's arms were soon to hold him in place. Giving soft kisses to those rosy cheeks.
"Sorry, sorry, please keep me company, it's I who can't eat without you, don't leave, humor me!"
Those words seemed to satisfy Sasuke as he relaxed back on the chair, with a triumphant smile on his lips, he commented.
"As long as you know that."
"I do~" Chirping, the blond returned to his breakfast.
Their mornings were always like this, spent in sweet laughter and mindless teasing. Naruto wished for these times to continue forever.
When much time has passed and Sasuke seemed to gain enough health, he asked Naruto to listen to his story. The blond refused at first, thinking that reciting everything would only hurt Sasuke, however, the raven haired Uchiha refuted; he told Naruto that it's better for him to speak his life's story and get it out of his system. The soul in him remembered fragments of his old two lives, so he desired to, at least, have a clear timeline about what had happened to him. Sharing the good and bad times with Naruto, he needed him to know.
Being persuaded by Sasuke huge orbs, Naruto complied. He warned Sasuke that he'd stop him if there was any physical or emotional distress that hindered him. Sasuke agreed. He began narrating with a neutral tone. As if the story he was telling had nothing to do with him. The blond understood it, Sasuke was detaching himself from his previous lives, it was the best way to remember those memories without breaking down.
Since his life as a killing machine was an ancient blur, Sasuke started with the long life he was cursed to live; he was a dark soul that should have been erased from the world. Nonetheless, he was given a chance to correct his wrong doings. Sasuke learnt a lot about humans, yet throughout the long decades, he'd forgotten what he was and why he was doing what he did. When he realized that his body was different from normal humans', he searched for ways to identify himself. Yet to no avail, when he was on the verge of giving up, he met Hyuuga Tsunade. Their meeting was by chance only, he was observing the Hyuuga clan and was caught by her. Sasuke was oddly attracted to her pure powers, at that point, Tsunade was enrolled in society, she was an advocate of peace and pure energy.
They had an agreement, Sasuke would help her with her studies of pure energy and she would help him find out his origins. Sasuke's memory was too fragmented for him to give a clear timeline, but he felt like it happened when Tsunade was still a young lady; perhaps more than fifty years ago. At that moment, they couldn't get an audience with the gods but a messenger of them was persuaded to speak. The messenger took a price – several years were deducted from Sasuke's age – for revealing the secret of his past. When Sasuke learned of it, he felt a dark shadow overlap his heart. The shadow of his previous actions haunted him, since that day onwards, it didn't leave his side. It was a life that clawed at his body, the feelings of guilt and helplessness, he pondered if those were the things he needed to learn.
Sasuke continued living his life documenting the acts of man. He left Tsunade's side having gotten what he had searched for, now though darkness was his friend. The good and the bad were fighting inside of him, as much as he tried to severe the dark energy, it was too late, carelessly he had awakened it. He shouldn't have searched for the past; he shouldn't have stirred sleeping demons, if not, his pure energy wouldn't have been tainted. Regret was weighing him down even more, he couldn't escape his destiny.
Years passed, he spent the remaining of his pure energy helping vulnerable people. He extended a hand to those who needed it, knowing full well that it was on the expense of losing his own life. At that time, his head thought that was the best course of action, it was fine to atone that way.
Then he met young Uzumaki Naruto, the child was as pure as a streaming spring. He had a huge amount of dormant pure energy that was able in less than a second, to replenish Sasuke's reserve. Not just that, Naruto's energy vanquished all the darkness inside Sasuke. On that day, Sasuke felt like he was resurrected by the hands of that tiny child. He was so warm and fragile. Sasuke didn't want to hurt him, he wanted to protect him. As he basked in the pureness of Naruto's energy, his regrets vanished, and he began thinking that life wasn't so bad beside him. Yet, Sasuke wasn't allowed happiness, he wasn't allowed to be close to people. Foolishly, he'd thought that Naruto's energy could alter his destiny, but Fate interfered and loudly stated to Sasuke that 'relationships were not allowed'.
The person whom he wanted most to protect was suffering because of him. Even then he couldn't leave Naruto's side, he'd grown too attached, but at the same time, he couldn't tell Naruto anything. Back then the blond was a normal teenager; he didn't realize that there was anything in this world as energy or Fate. Would he even believe Sasuke if he said he was a being of long age? That he wasn't even human like him? What if by a stroke of luck, Naruto believed, how would Fate retaliate? Sasuke found himself stressing more each time he thought about it, at the end, he didn't have the courage to disclose his identity.
That's when he made the decision to leave. However, the pure energy connecting them didn't allow him to forget Naruto. He longed for him, without knowing it, Naruto was like air to him. Life was impossible without him; his old darkness was about to return. That's why he went to find Naruto. The blond was living life but Sasuke saw the loneliness inside, he could feel that Naruto had unspoken regrets. He hadn't told Naruto about it, but his pure energy was about to be tarnished by his regrets. Sasuke had seen it happen many times before, when people forgot important things, when their lives turned to nothing but failed efforts, the darkness finds a door to gnaw the heart. Sasuke didn't want that to happen to Naruto, but at the same time, he couldn't stay with him and jeopardize killing him. The only solution he thought of was to give Naruto a second chance.
With Naruto's pure energy and Sasuke's knowledge, he could twist Naruto's time.
It was a gamble, he was offering his life in exchange of Naruto's second chance, actually, Sasuke was alright dying that way. His presence would perish from Naruto's heart; their connections would cut; no damage would affect the blond… dare he say that it was a hidden wish? The young Sasuke kept that information to himself and didn't share it with Naruto, omitting it from his storytelling.
Sasuke had dawned in the forbidden arts and turned time back for Naruto. He erased Naruto's future and returned him to a point when his life was complete. He had tried to erase his existence from Naruto's head a second time, yet somehow he just couldn't do it. When he realized he was alive, he wanted to make sure Naruto was fine and functioning well in the old vicinity. Maybe a small part in him was also holding onto a thread of hope, since he couldn't wipe the fond memories of their time together.
Sasuke had realized that if he were to appear to Naruto again, the blond would be confused and possibly hunt him down. He'd demand Sasuke to explain himself, Sasuke welcomed that intrusion. He believed that if Naruto were to think of him as an enemy, maybe fate wouldn't hurt him… maybe he could get away with being close to Naruto.
Sasuke was fine playing the villain in exchange.
With his vast knowledge, it was easy to be around Naruto. At the beginning, he simply wanted to be a classmate, but fearing that he won't be able to observe Naruto more – or get caught stalking him – he made himself a teacher at his cram school, something that was very easy for him. Forging memories of the people around to protect his identity was becoming normal for him. He had done it times and times again. Yet, the thing Sasuke didn't count for was his own actions. His heart split into two.
A part wanted Naruto to know the truth, it urged Sasuke to kill the mysteries and tell the blond that this was his second chance, so he should lead a fulfilling life. However, the second part argued that, he was already risking Naruto's life simply by being near. If he were to disclose his identity, Naruto will fall in love with him and will die; he was already responding to their linked souls, anymore of this would make hauling Naruto back in time pointless.
The black haired male had an internal struggle. Sometimes he would find himself behaving as if he wanted Naruto close, but other times he'd lie to him and play with his feelings. Sasuke told himself that he was doing it to protect Naruto, but at the end of the day he was only protecting himself. What irony… in the end, his own internal conflicts caused his downfall. He relied on Naruto again and caused him great pain. Sasuke wished that his life would end and set Naruto free. He wanted the small child who had given him heaven to grow up surrounded by his loved ones. He didn't want Naruto to suffer a lonesome or regretful life, that's why he asked him to cut their connection.
So now, being together like this… Sasuke was still unable to believe that they were given a third chance. Oh, could it be true?
Naruto couldn't stop himself anymore and hugged the hell out of Sasuke's small frame. Sasuke's tone was breaking at the end, the detachment he displayed in the beginning had dimmed down. Naruto held his tears at pay, he kept quiet when Sasuke told him stuff he already knew, he simply listened attentively to Sasuke's side of the story. The events inside Sasuke were probably still disorganized, much like the events when his own memory of Sasuke was restored. It was amazing just for Sasuke to be sane now. The young boy's voice jittered at some areas and Naruto continued sending his support. He realized how important it was for Sasuke to tell him, feelings wouldn't get across unless you speak them.
The blond felt the body in his arms relax, softly he heard an even breathing. He smiled when he found out Sasuke had fallen asleep, probably he'd grown too exhausted. Naruto picked him up and placed him on the bed, they were inside Naruto's room, evening was about to descend. As he placed a blanket over Sasuke's frame, he felt like there were still some grey areas that he didn't know. He had a lot of questions about the future that he had left, but… asking right now wasn't good either, he didn't want to unmistakably press a dormant landmine. Not when life was finally smiling to the both of them.
If there were some internal demons Sasuke wanted to hide from him, then he was fine with it. He won't question him or pry into his wounds. Both of them being there and in good health was enough for him. Naruto was satisfied.
"Naruto! Over here, over here!" Sakura enthusiastically waved her hands at him, her face lit up when he came closer into her viewfinder. However, there was a small shadow tailing beside him that made her blink in wonder.
Naruto beamed and greeted. "Sakura-chan, how have you been?"
She nodded, her smile back on her lovely features. "Alive and kicking. How about you?"
He mimicked her actions and words. "Well and well, so where's everybody?"
"They're waiting at the café, I told them I'd come pick you up."
The blond nodded his understanding. Upon seeing Sakura's curious orbs checking the kid beside him, he rubbed the back of his head sheepishly and introduced Sasuke. Pushing the young Uchiha in front of her, he spoke.
"Let me introduce you, this is Uchiha Sasuke, he's my next door neighbor. Remember I told you there were people moving to the house next to ours?" Sakura nodded, he continued, voice filled with delight. "This is their kid, I'm babysitting today."
Sakura recalled three days ago, she and Naruto were sitting in their classroom chatting, when the blond told her about the new family that moved next door. He said they were an old couple with their grandson. Sakura had asked about if Naruto had met them and he said he did, apparently he didn't meet the old couple but met the kid, he was eleven years old and very bright. He told Sakura that he'd bring him to meet her soon. Her jade eyes checked the little boy from head to toe.
His small body was clad in black and his features were clear-cut and cute, with huge black eyes that revealed nothing of his thoughts. He had the perfect poker face. She felt like she had seen him somewhere but just couldn't pinpoint it. Shrugging the familiar feeling away, Sakura extended her hand as a warm smile showed on her face.
"Nice to meet you, Sasuke-kun, I'm Haruno Sakura. You can call me Onee-chan!" Sakura introduced herself with a chirp at the end.
Sasuke and Naruto had decided that the best way to deal with Sakura was to befriend her. Even if a time comes when she would connect the dots, there was no proof to find. Nonetheless, it would actually be impossible for her to make sure of her hunches, even if she told people, who would believe that the small kid was a reincarnation of an old soul? Who would believe that Sasuke was erased and a new one came to be? No one, so they just needed to act normal. Hiding in plain sight was the best answer they thought off.
Besides, if Sasuke was going to be a part of Naruto's life, avoiding Sakura would be impossible.
The raven haired male extended his hand and grasped hers. He showed a small curtesy smile and nodded.
"Nice to meet you, too."
Sakura felt her eyes turn into hearts as she couldn't hold it anymore and squeezed the life out of the small Uchiha, squealing about how cute he was. Naruto sweat dropped at Sasuke's uncomfortable position but it wasn't like he didn't see the charms Sakura did, he himself has mimicked her actions millions of times before. He smiled at Sasuke and apologetically asked him to bear with it. He was glad that Sakura didn't recognize the raven haired male at all, which really did prove their point that the gods have erased everyone's memories of Sasuke's previous existence.
The pink haired girl let go of Sasuke and straightened out her mango-colored skirt and black shirt. Fixing a strand of pink locks behind her ear, she beamed at Naruto.
"Alright, let's go, everyone's waiting for us!"
The blond smiled. "Lead the way."
Sakura nodded and turned around, in the little minute that she did, Sasuke's hand found its way into Naruto's tan one. The blond's smile stretched into a grin.
"It's okay, she doesn't suspect a thing." Sasuke assured looking ahead.
"Yeah, I wasn't worried about that. Sakura's hunches are always right, but the good thing is that she doesn't always act on them. Besides, she seems to have grown to be a fan of yours already, so I don't think there's anything for us to worry about."
Sasuke didn't like the last part of those words but since it helped them, he didn't mind being liked by her. "Hn."
With that they continued walking to the café to meet the rest of the gang.
Naruto introduced Sasuke to all his friends. The two most important people he wanted to talk to were Neji and Hinata, they both helped him a great time especially with covering the truth. He knew still had memory of Sasuke's previous existence. Their memories weren't touched. He didn't know if it was because they were shamans, due to their Hyuuga blood or because Tsunade pleaded with the gods on their behalf. The thing was, he knew they won't interfere with his business anyway.
Neji had a troubled look on his face, knowing that Naruto's price was steep, he simply had a hard time accepting all of this. However, Hinata was smiling happily, delighted that finally, Naruto had a happy ending to his love story. Naruto thanked both of them diligently – Sasuke reluctantly did the same, he still couldn't accept everything that Naruto did and the sense of guilt wasn't about to go anytime soon.
Their evening had come to an end and the blond excused himself with Sasuke. The night air wasn't that cold so they decided to take a walk instead of hurrying home via transportation. Naruto's brain was thinking about so many things, Sasuke's huge estate, his fortune and assets. What will they do with all of that? The raven haired male had some unique qualities but that was in his previous body, Naruto looked the small frame and wondered aloud.
"Hey, Sasuke, I want to ask you something."
"What?"
"Can you like… fly?" He questioned with a puzzle.
The raven haired kid blinked and furrowed his brows. "Fly?"
"Yeah," Naruto explained further. "Remember that day when you abducted me," he chuckled, "We were flying somewhat, right? The previous 'you' had these powers or abilities, do you still have them now?"
The raven haired male shook his head. "I didn't fly, Naruto. I'm human and I don't have powers. What I did back then was simply levitating, it's different. I could do it because the gods gave me means to do it. I used my energy for it, just like I did with everything else. However, I don't have that energy now so I can't do any of that. I think I'm the same as any normal human who isn't able to cultivate his energy now."
The blond nodded. "Then how about me? Can I do it? I mean if I studied it enough, can I do the same things?"
Sasuke's frown deepened and he stopped walking. His eyes poured holes into Naruto as he clearly warned.
"There's no need for you to learn that. Your energy is taking a toll with me fending off it as it is, don't go around learning things that you're better off unknowing. Playing with your energy is basically using your soul, if you exhaust it too much, it will vanish, besides, there's a specific balance that needs to be met. You need to know these things from a young age, risking learning them without proper awareness can lead to self-destruction. You could end up dying without knowing how to save yourself, so please, Naruto, don't even think about that."
The blond sweat dropped at his words. He knew it was dangerous, but he didn't think it would be that dangerous. Sasuke made it all look so easy alas the Hyuuga. That's why he thought that he could do it too. Maybe a time would come when he needs to defend Sasuke against something that wants to hurt him, Naruto liked to be able to save him without relying on others.
Yet seeing how worried and anxious his love was, Naruto surrendered. With sure steps, he came close and cupped Sasuke's cheek.
"Don't worry, I won't do anything that will hurt me or you. It was a silly idea and I won't mention this again."
His words seemed to reassure the other and Sasuke nodded. "There's a reason why it's being forgotten in this world, Naruto, it's not a good thing."
"Yes, I realize this."
"As long as you're aware."
"I am." He grinned and pinched Sasuke's cheek. "Now, turn that frown upside down. It's been a while since I last saw you smile."
Sasuke rolled his eyes and slapped that hand away gently. "Stop being silly."
The blond allowed him to go and smiled at the faint hue on Sasuke's cheeks. His love was really too cute for him to handle; he didn't know how he'd be able to hold back until Sasuke gets old enough to be touched. Sighing, he walked quickly and matched his steps with those of Sasuke's, enjoying the evening walk in silence again.
Feeling a strange presence on top of him, the blond Uzumaki flickered his eyes open. He didn't think he had any surprise left in him, but when seeing Sasuke stripping him off, his emotions swirled to just that. There on his bed, in the middle of the night, Sasuke was nonchalantly taking off his shirt. Getting over his bewilderment, he quickly got hold of those tiny, pale hands and voiced aloud.
"S-S-Sasuke, what are you doing!?" He stuttered, baffled.
The black haired male answered calmly. "Sex. We're going to have sex."
Naruto started to panic, a hue of red spreading like wild fire on his face. "S-Sex? What do you mean sex?"
"Naruto, I knew you were an idiot, but even you should know what sex is." Sasuke answered him with a scowl.
The blond rolled his eyes and countered. "I know what sex is, I mean what do you mean by 'we're going to have sex'?!"
Sasuke looked at him as if he was really an idiot. "…I will put my dick in your ass or do you want the opposite? I don't mind either ways. That's sex, Naruto."
By now Naruto was about to fall off the bed. He really didn't want to hear those words from the young Sasuke right now, in the beginning they didn't even confess their feelings, sure they both went hell and back for the other, but they didn't officially confess anything and even if they did… he looked at the tiny body in front of him and cringed. Straightening up their positions on the bed, Naruto reasoned.
"Listen, Sasuke, first calm down and put your clothes back on, okay? No one is having anything tonight. You're getting the order of things wrong." the blond put a hand over his face, slowly trying to explain his point. "We didn't even take the first step yet."
"We kissed."
"Yes, but have we announced our feelings for each other? No, we haven't!"
Sasuke rolled his eyes dramatically and stated. "Don't sweat the details. I know you love me and I love you too. There. It's said."
The blond felt like the nice dream he painted of him and Sasuke confessing in a beautiful scenery, with the perfect atmosphere, get ruined. He should have expected that. Sasuke wasn't the type to romance like that anyway. Sighing, he spoke.
"Okay even if that's true, we can't just jump to bed." he made his opinion perfectly clear. "Look at you, having sex with you at this age is a crime. I will go to jail!"
Sasuke seemed to think this one through, but he continued arguing. "Not really, I'm not really sure about it, but I think in the eyes of the law, you're still a minor. So even if we both fucked, it'd be looked at as two minors having sex, you won't be charged with anything."
"No, Sasuke, I will be. I'm eighteen years old –"
"Technically you're twenty-six." Sasuke interrupted, correcting him.
"No one knows that –" Naruto commented.
"And I am older than you can imagine." Once more, the Uchiha cut him off before he finished.
"Again, no one knows that." Naruto was firm, disliking being interrupted two times in a row. "Remember what Tsunade-obaa-san had said, this is our life, there's no turning back to the past or going to the future. I'm living as an eighteen-year-old and you're an eleven-year-old. So we should act the part. Right now we have a seven years' age gap, sex is out of the question. We will wait until your body fully grows."
A look of total dissatisfaction showed on Sasuke's face. "I waited for many years for this day, I didn't even think it would ever come, now you tell me to wait until this body gets older?"
Naruto felt like he was being cruel, but… it wouldn't be right to take Sasuke when he was still so young. He didn't think the small body would take him and honestly, he didn't want to hurt Sasuke.
"I'm sorry, but yes." His tone was apologetic and sincere.
Sasuke pouted cutely making Naruto's resolve almost vanish; but he stood his ground. Even if they were on the same level emotionally, he won't act like a wild dog and damage something he took such care in protecting. Doing anything perverted was out of the question, but that didn't mean he couldn't kiss those rosy cheeks. The blond leaned and gave Sasuke two pecks on each cheek. The raven haired male glared at him and pushed the tan face away, with a tiny jump, he stood straight and headed towards the door.
"Since you're not going to do anything, I'm going home."
"Don't, stay." Naruto smiled, opening the covers close to him. Sasuke gave him his back as he opened the door. "We can't have sex, but that doesn't mean we can't sleep together."
"No, thank you, It's better I don't tonight."
With that his room's door was closed softly on him. Naruto sighed and ran a hand through his hair, it's not that he didn't understand Sasuke's point of view, but he also couldn't do that in this condition. Naruto could still remember the hell he went through trying to explain to his father why he was kissing Sasuke. He'd never lied so many lies as that time. At the end, his father resigned it to Naruto acting like an idiot and not thinking straight. After formal introductions – in which they lied to Minato about Sasuke's identity – the light blond haired man welcomed Sasuke into their home.
Naruto hated that he was lying to his father like that, but what else could he do? The truth wasn't something that he could say easily. Sighing again, he took a deep breath and laid back down, thinking to close the lid on that topic and sleep for the night. After all, the next morning, his finals start.
The last day of Naruto's finals, Sasuke had accompanied him to school, but hid around campus until the blond was done. Just when he thought they'd be able to go out and spend the day together, Naruto was called back inside. As he was sitting waiting for him, Sakura spotted him and dragged him by force to buy crepes – the raven haired male shuddered at it, but couldn't say no. They went to a vender that parked outside the school premises and Sakura ordered two crepes for them. Sasuke insisted that he didn't want it, but she shoved it in his mouth. Having no way to refuse again, Sasuke obliged.
Not a minute later they went back to school, Sakura excused herself when one friend called out to her, but Sasuke didn't notice. His eyes were glued to the male walking towards him. He looked up with calm orbs at the smiling fox that sat next to him. In all honesty, he didn't want this encounter to ever happen, but fate had always played against his wishes. Not gracing the other with any form of acknowledgement, Sasuke continued nipping on the crepe.
"We didn't have time to talk before, Sasuke-kun. Let me start with, welcome back."
The sweet, gentle tone didn't give Sasuke any feeling of comfort. He knew the other meant well, but he still couldn't forgive the Hyuuga for allowing Naruto to pay that price. In an effort to pretend the other didn't exist, Sasuke stayed silent. Hyuuga Neji wasn't one to lose a battle so he continued earnestly.
"You don't have to worry; your secret is safe with me."
That caught Sasuke's attention, he looked from the crepe to the intruder with wondering eyes. Raising a questioning brow, he waited for the other's explanation.
"I don't mean the stuff about you and Naruto. It's another secret," Neji winked, allowing his soft hair to cover his left eye momentarily.
Sasuke couldn't stay silent anymore and asked out of curiosity. "What do you mean?"
Feeling triumphant that he forced the small Uchiha to finally speak, Neji smiled sweetly. "Oh nothing, it's silly really and right now, I don't think it's that important anymore –"
"Stop beating around the bush."
"Gladly." Neji's eyes glowed vividly in a second and his tone shifted to become a little bit colder. "I meant how you knew that the energy you were living on was Naruto's."
Sasuke's eyes widened and he felt his heart drop. The brunet Hyuuga continued speaking.
"It's close to impossible for you not to notice something so simple like your energy diminishing. In my guess, you knew the second your energy and his connected, however, you still continued fending off of him. Even though you knew his lifespan will suffer, you selfishly allowed yourself leisure."
The raven haired Uchiha saw the dark secret that he always kept hidden very well, even from himself, open in public by the glowing eyes of Hyuuga Neji, oh he really didn't like those eyes.
"What do you want?" His tone got edgy as his guard rose up.
Neji's eyes returned to normal and the coldness he showed melted to mellowness in a second. "Nothing. I want to do nothing. I want nothing from you and like I said before, your secret is safe with me. I won't tell Naruto. It's not that I'm doing it for you, but for him. I saw how much he cares for you, even if I told him, Naruto would still gladly share his energy with you – just like now. There's no point in it."
Sasuke glared at him. "If there's no point, why tell me about it then?"
"Hmm… you can see it as a warning. Even if Naruto loves you, I, as his friend, won't tolerate you playing with his life like that. I wanted you to know that there's someone here who's watching you and making sure that you don't hurt him in any way."
The raven haired child smirked and returned to biting his crepe. "You're Naruto's watchdog?"
"Call it whatever you want, but remember, don't ever think about hurting him."
With those as his parting words, Hyuuga Neji stood up and started walking away. Sasuke glared at his retreating back and snorted aloud.
"I don't want you telling me that."
Naruto smiled warmly at the love of his life, he waited until Sasuke was done with the dishes to pat a spot near him on the sofa, Sasuke made his way to it and in less than a second, Naruto's arm circled around him. The raven haired male didn't object and took the orange juice that was on the table then sipped. They were currently in Sasuke's house – the house next door to Naruto's which he'd bought –, on an evening that was just right for movies, they cuddled in each other's embrace and started watching.
As the adventure-slash-action movie played, Naruto started playing with Sasuke's hair. He noticed a couple of things as that happened, Sasuke's growth rate was astonishing, it had been five months since he was back but he already looked like he was in his fourteens. He and Sasuke had guessed the age they told people. Sometimes Naruto would forget if he told them eleven or twelve, which always resulted in some suspicious looks from Sakura.
Luckily for them, he was known for his bad memory so it went well, yet now, he frowned. How will they explain Sasuke's change in physique? Naruto was sure that a year from now, Sasuke would look just like his old teen self. Probably reaching eighteen years before they know it. The blond contemplated if that growth was due to his soul healing faster than they thought or a random side effect. A question popped inside his head at this; could he fake Sasuke's growth like his missing limbs? Glancing at Sasuke, his frown deepened.
What Tsunade did back then was close to magic than anything he'd ever seen, and probably had everything to do with using one's energy, he and Sasuke were unable to do that now… so, should they go and beg the old woman again? But she was firm about not wanting to see their faces for as long as she lived. The blond released an air of uncertainty he didn't know he held. The male in his arms was soon to notice and without raising his head, he questioned.
"What's wrong?"
"Life." Nature replied with a loud sigh in his voice.
"Well, that won't do so stop." He was scolded gently.
"No, it has to," he argued. "Do you realize you've been growing like a tree? How are we going to explain everything to everyone?"
Sasuke shrugged. "Growth spurt?"
"That won't work. You're growing rapidly… I don't think people will buy that."
"They have to, there's no other answer. Just search it up, you'll find a lot of people shooting to the stars when they hit puberty, and I guess I should have hit it."
Naruto rolled his eyes at the very easygoing way Sasuke addressed this subject with. "That, Sasuke, happens when they reach their sixteens or seventeens, no one shoots from eleven."
"…Sure they do."
"Let's not talk about this. How about we enjoy the movie."
The black haired male shrugged, eating a popcorn. "I was doing that; you were the one stressing about useless stuff. I have lived long to know that all these things don't matter, you shouldn't think about them and just enjoy the time we have together. After all, you went to hell and back to secure it, right?"
A cute smile was given to him and the blond's heart melted, even if he wanted to say no, he couldn't do it. Sasuke's words were just. He shouldn't worry about the future when it didn't even reach them, let them live day by day and deal with every issue as it arises. Yes, that would be good. His normal grin plastered on his tan complexion and nodding, he ruffled Sasuke's locks – earning an eye roll to the way he was being treated with.
"Yeah, you're right. I will do just that. Thanks."
"Anytime, have some popcorn."
With that they returned to their movie night, enjoying yet another joyful occasion.
Sasuke looked at his reflection in the mirror, his expression didn't change a bit. He was still holding onto the poker face, actually he had tried to be more outgoing, more fun to be around, all for Naruto not to think he was a boring human being. However, all his attempts bore no fruits. He really didn't think he would be able to change his inner personality no matter how many times he's born. His body had grown – actually he was more amazed than Naruto – he reached puberty fast. Of course he always made a mind note to reassure Naruto whenever he pointed out how big the raven was getting, but he himself was feeling insecure.
It wasn't because of people or society or fearing his secret would be exposed, no, he was afraid he'd continue aging this way and die before the blond. It was silly. Tsunade's words clearly stated that this would continue until his soul regenerates, but when will that stop? Will he be thirty? Forty? What guarantee did they have that he won't end up as an old man and force Naruto to tend to him?
Sasuke cringed at the thought and quickly put on his black shirt. He really should stop overthinking. The gods gave him a third chance, that meant he will have a life to live, and being stuck as an old man meant there was nothing to learn and Naruto's sacrifices would be in vein, even they weren't that cruel.
His black orbs scanned the room in the house he claimed as his and found the backbag he wanted. Soon he flung it over his shoulder and came out of the house. Naruto was waiting for him outside, a huge grin showed on his face when he saw Sasuke.
"You're late." The blond commented amused. "What took you so long?"
Shrugging, Sasuke walked towards him and gave a soft kiss to Naruto's cheek, it became a habit for them right now, greeting with kisses. At first Naruto would turn beat red and get flustered, but eventually he grew accustomed to it. Sasuke welcomed the comfort, but he still missed Naruto's amusing reactions every time he would sneak kiss him.
"I couldn't find my bag." He gave a silly reason to end the enquiry.
"Aha, okay, listen, today after school, my friends – err our friends are meeting up, I want you to come with me, I want to tell them."
Sasuke quickly picked up on the hidden meaning, he looked the other in the eyes with a raised brow. "First, they are your friends as far as they know, and … are you sure?"
Nodding with certainty, Naruto spoke. "Yes. You're in your first year of high school already, it's fine. No one would object to it. Besides, I want the whole world to know you're mine, I'm afraid those high school girls would steal you away."
"Naruto, don't be an idiot." Sasuke smiled at his jealousy. "If there's someone who's afraid the other would be stolen it should be me. You're studying at Konoha university, it's far from here, I only get to see you three days a week. Who knows who you're meeting when we're not together."
Naruto's grin turned into a laugh as he circled his arm around Sasuke's shoulder. "Well, all the more reason why we should go public, you'd have a really good reason to monopolize me~"
"Jokes aside," Sasuke's tone became serious. "You really want us to announce? I have no problem with it, but will your friends and father accept it?"
"Would you stop loving me if they don't?" Naruto rebuked in all seriousness.
"You know I won't."
"Me neither," his bright azure orbs shone. "That's why there's no use hiding it. I want to be honest with them. Everyone has moved on in their lives and we don't meet that often, so I think I should tell them, Sasuke. I hid this long enough. Now, your soul is almost healed, we can stay away from each other for a longer duration and distance. We're living well, there's no supernatural nonsense to worry about anymore, it's the perfect period."
Sasuke nodded his understanding, his height was close to Naruto's now, he could walk beside him without needing to look up anymore. Naruto's words were just, there was no reason for them to hide. Everything was alright, they should take another step forward.
"When do you want to do it? Today?"
"If possible, Sakura-chan is leaving to study abroad and I think Kiba is planning something, so everyone is meeting today. It's the right time to speak." Naruto replied.
"Then where are you meeting?" Sasuke asked again. "Konoha café?"
The blond grinned. "You know it!"
Rolling his eyes, Sasuke commented. "Always."
They continued their way to the bus station from there and bid each other goodbye. Naruto took the train to his university while Sasuke walked to his school. His body was alright with Naruto's distance, but his heart wasn't. Sasuke mentally slapped himself on the head and decided to stop being a girl and continue his day, waiting patiently for the day to end.
"You two are dating?!"
Naruto exclaimed not believing his eyes, Sakura wanted to hit him on the head, but stifled her urge, still Ino did it for her.
"Shut it, idiot, it was as obvious as the sun." The light blond cheerleader clarified. "You just were too preoccupied with your drama to notice."
"No, like seriously, when did it start?"
Hinata matched a tomato right now, she wasn't used to this attention yet, even though she was the head of her family, she still didn't like attention. Right now, as she and Kiba announced that they were an item, the whole gang was astonished, well maybe not all, but Naruto sure was.
"I t-think last June, he c-confessed to me." Hinata stuttered out a reply, still embarrassed.
"Well good for you!" Naruto slapped Kiba on the back with a foxy grin on his lips. "Didn't think you had it in you~!"
Kiba rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, getting embarrassed with all the attention. "Thanks, everyone, for all your wishes, I will do my best to keep her happy."
Hinata blushed further if possible upon his words, the guys cheered their friend and congratulated the couple on their relationship. Naruto looked at Sasuke from the corner of his eyes and he swallowed, now that Kiba and Hinata were an official couple, it was the perfect chance for them to announce as well. However, somehow he just felt nervous. His friends would accept him, he was sure they weren't that prejudiced, but still… he was scared of the tiny possibility that they don't. Suddenly he felt a cold hand grasp him, looking to his left, he saw Sasuke nonchalantly sipping a juice with one hand while his other tightened its hold on his.
Naruto felt his heart relax and his anxiety fade away. Really, there was nothing to fear, he wasn't alone and telling everyone that he was dating Sasuke wasn't something he needed to fear. With determined eyes, he looked towards his delighted group of friends and with a loud voice stated.
"Everyone, there's something I want to announce, as well."
The vicinity grew quiet at his serious tone; all eyes were on him. Naruto cleared his throat and declared with a huge beam.
"Sasuke and I, we… we are dating." there was no reaction, the blond looked at them puzzled, he repeated himself, fearing that they didn't hear him. "Did you hear me? I said –"
"We heard you, Naruto," Sakura was the first to break the silence, "but the thing is, we already kinda knew, didn't we guys?"
His eyes widened at her words and his puzzlement was affirmed when multiple heads nodded to her question.
"I saw you two kissing on the way home," Shikamaru spoke. "My shock was momentarily."
"I saw them holding hands." Ino chuckled.
Kiba raised his hand and energetically said. "I saw them hugging!"
"I saw Naruto texting 'I love you' to Sasuke." softly Gaara said, adding to clear himself. "It was by accident though."
"In my case, I sensed it and there were multiple occasions where Naruto, you acted too close to each other that it was suspicious." Shino stated his opinion.
The only one who kept quiet was Neji, but he already knew the type of relationship the two had so he didn't need to voice anything.
"So you see, Naruto, we all knew about you since when? Last year of high school?" Sakura commented. "I think we talked about it back then, too."
"Wait, you all talked about this?! Why didn't you ask me?!" Naruto enquired.
"Because it wasn't necessary." Ino was the one answering him, flipping a strand of golden hair. "You were happy and that was all that mattered. As your friends, we didn't care about who you decided to date as long as they were good people and made you happy."
Her words made his eyes tear a little. Naruto honestly couldn't wish for better friends. With a smile that conveyed all his gratitude, he bowed to them.
"Thank you all, I'm happy you're my friends."
Kiba hit him on the back hard, laughing. "Stop with the mushiness, it's gross."
"Yeah, Naruto, we did nothing for you to say those things." Hinata replied softly.
After that, the conversations ran smoothly, Naruto was stolen away from Sasuke by Neji who had something he needed to discuss about Naruto's university, apparently Hinata's younger sister wanted to apply there. Sasuke's attention was directed to Sakura as she came closer to him to talk.
"Hey, how are you? It's been a long time since we last saw each other."
By now, his relationship with Sakura was on good terms. The girl turned out to be not as awful as he'd thought. Sasuke believed that he actually didn't give her a chance for them to become good friends. Back then his mind was so focused on Naruto that he'd get jealous of anyone who was close to him. Sakura had a long relationship with Naruto and, the fact that he used to like her didn't help. However, after his jealousy was out of the way, he was able to talk to her and find out that really, she was one hell of a good friend.
"Good, how about you? How's school? Naruto told me you're complaining a lot."
Sakura rolled her eyes at Naruto's words and brushed them off. "Nah… I was; it's because I wasn't used to all the new topics they had me study. But I'm fine now, how about you? I bet all girls are throwing themselves at your feet."
"I only have eyes for Naruto." he cleared. "Their efforts are pointless."
"I see you didn't even deny anything."
"…"
She chuckled at his silence and continued talking. "You're okay with this? I mean, Naruto is an idiot I can see how he pressured you into announcing, but did you really want your relationship to be public?"
Sasuke shrugged, drinking in leisure. "I don't really care, if he's happy about it, then it's fine. I'm good as long as he's good."
"Sasuke… you do realize that you and him are two different entities, don't spoil him too much."
His only reply was a smile to her. Sakura rolled her eyes again at his clear 'don't-step-in-between-us' aura and waved her hand.
"Fine, I will shut up. He's yours to ruin."
"Thank you."
They finished their conversation and that singled an end to a beautiful evening filled with acceptance and laughter.
It was raining, Naruto extended a hand out and drops of rain hit his palm. He was currently in the bus stop, waiting for said vehicle to come so he could go home, the blond sighed. He was stuck without an umbrella and no means to reach home. He'd spoken to Sasuke earlier on and the raven haired male told him that he'd already gotten home. Naruto thought about getting a taxi, but he was still suffering some finical troubles, he couldn't spare money for taxis. Groaning aloud, he sat down and decided to enjoy the scenery.
It's been about a year since he and Sasuke told his father about their relationship. Minato was shocked to say the least – and even though he accepted Naruto – it was still a lot for him to handle. Of course, Minato respected his child's wishes, but the blond could still see how strongly his father wished for him to start a family with a woman. Maybe because he wanted grandkids or because he felt like Naruto was missing out on life, be it as it may, he never voiced those objections. Naruto was a little sad about not being able to fulfil his father's desires, but he decided that he'd be happy with Sasuke to mend that feeling. In the end, Minato put his son's happiness above his own, if Naruto's joy was with Sasuke, then so be it.
The blond sighed another time, attracting the attention of passersby. Naruto really wished he could give his father the grandkids he wanted, but what could he and Sasuke do if they fell in love? Still, they could adopt or find a surrogate if they really did wish for children. He thought hard about this, a kid with Sasuke. How wonderful was that!? He didn't know if they would be great parents, but he didn't think it'd be impossible for them to raise a great child. They would teach him right and wrong and make him grow up in an environment filled with love. They would make his happiness their goal, just like what his father did for him.
Sasuke would be the perfect parent, Naruto chuckled thinking about it. Sasuke and him under one roof with six or seven children. If only they could have their own kids, how fortunate he'd be. However, even if they didn't have the chance to birth, Naruto was still satisfied with his current life. Kids didn't mean happiness, there were a lot of couples who didn't have kids – be it by choice or circumstances – and they still lived in delight. Children were a part of a future that Naruto wasn't hung up on, and he sure won't allow Sasuke to ever doubt that he's better off with a woman.
At times, Naruto's brain would overthink. Sasuke was very kind, he might leave him if he thought it would be for the other's best interest. It was in his nature. Naruto tried for years to calm the raging seas in Sasuke, but in the back of his head, he knew. Sasuke would leave in a second if it meant Naruto would gain happiness by that. That's why, in every chance he had, he kept on reminding him – almost hypnotizing him – that life without him wouldn't be a life. Naruto would turn into a living corpse. He'd eat, sleep and function, but there would be no soul. Naruto made a habit of hammering that inside Sasuke's head, until it became a second nature to always be together.
The cell in his pocket rung and Naruto picked it up, 'Sasuke' read over the screen. He smiled and cheerfully spoke.
"Darling~ I was just thinking about you~"
"…Oh."
Naruto could almost see the eye roll Sasuke must have done at his 'darling' comment. He continued with a smirk, as his naughty side surfaced
"I remembered the beautiful voices you made last night, I still get hot when I picture it."
He could feel the slight embarrassment in Sasuke tone. "Perv. So where are you?"
"Why? You want to come get me?" The blond cheerfully teased.
"Stop being silly, it's raining cats and dogs, who's coming to get you?" Sasuke retorted amusingly from the other line.
Grinning like a content cat, Naruto responded. "Sasuke… you need to be more honest. I know you want to pick me up."
"I don't. I just wanted to know how long I have to wait to eat. I'm hungry."
Naruto's eye beamed. "Lunch? You're waiting for me. You can eat. I don't think this rain is letting up anytime soon."
"I know, that's why I'm asking… where are you?"
The blond surrendered and told him his exact location, then asked. "Sasuke, honestly, don't wait for me, I think I'll just take a taxi when it lights up a little. The buses aren't running now."
Before he finished his words, the phone was cut with a faint 'bye'. Naruto blinked but paid it no mind, he thought the connection was bad due to the rain, there was no reason to fret. Sitting for a minute to think of how to get home, he decided to really call a taxi. He was still in his university and would only meet with Sasuke three times per week, that's why Sasuke never ate without him. It was kind of cute, but Naruto knew the raven haired male would continue not eating until he got home, so he really needed to stop wasting time and order the taxi. Who cares if his bank account suffers a little, if it made his Sasuke happy, then money was no biggie.
Just when he was about to do that, a blinding light of a car stopping before him had him close his eyes momentarily. Naruto opened them when the light was dimmed and sure enough, his boyfriend was sitting in the driver's seat of a very expensive looking sports car. Naruto whistled at the beautiful black Mercedes covered with fallen drops and, walked the distance separating him from the passenger door. Sasuke quickly opened the door to let him in.
Once inside, they drove off with the eyes of the public watching the fancy car with the handsome driver move away. Naruto inspected the modern interior, before he asked.
"When did you buy a car? I never heard about it."
"last week. It was a surprise." Sasuke answered, eyes on the road.
"It looks expensive."
"I have the resources." He replied while taking a turn different from the way back home. Naruto was still inspecting the car, so he didn't notice.
"You really wanted to pick me up." The statement was both playful and teasing, Sasuke ignored it altogether. Yet when a tan hand found its way to his thighs and continued going up, he couldn't keep his mouth shut anymore.
"What are you doing?"
"I told you," Naruto huskily spoke into his ear, playfully nipping on his earlobe "I got hot thinking about your voice last night."
Sasuke tried to control the beast within him and on his right as he pushed the hand away. "A: Perv. B: I'm driving, stop. It's dangerous."
Naruto rolled his eyes but kept his hands to himself. "So, it's fine once you're not driving?"
"I didn't say that."
"You also didn't deny it."
A small smirk showed on Sasuke's face as he clarified. "All's well in good time, Naruto, be patient."
The blond didn't know if it was an open invitation or a refusal, but being the optimist that he was, he decided on an invitation. They kept silent after that, Naruto laid in the comfortable leather seat and looked out the window, Sasuke's driving was so smooth and serene that with the falling rain, made his body soothe and relax. Honestly, even though he had been with Sasuke the pervious night, he missed him greatly. The day started with him rushing to school, only to learn – when he was half way there – that his lectures have been canceled due to heavy rain. Needless to say, he cursed as he was forced to get off on the nearest bus stop, only to find out that the buses weren't running either. That's how he got stuck, unable to return home.
Naruto looked at his boyfriend and a smile showed on his face. Sasuke was honestly too handsome and sweet for words. He probably wanted to show Naruto the new car in a better circumstance, surprise him in a big showy way, just like how Naruto liked his surprises, but since the blond was stuck in this rain, he couldn't help but blow up that surprise in order to come fetch him. It showed how much he was loved. Extending a tan hand, Naruto tucked a lock of black hair behind Sasuke's ear.
With eyes filled with nothing but delight, Naruto softly whispered. "I love you."
Sasuke's eyes didn't move from the road and he didn't reply, but a small smile showed on his face. It was all Naruto needed.
"Get out."
Sasuke ordered and Naruto complied. The blond looked at the garden they parked before and his face relaxed. Currently they were inside Sasuke's estate of a manor. Sasuke parked them close to the garden he'd planted. The rain was reduced to a drizzle right now, not enough for them to get wet. Naruto quickly walked to the beautiful gazebo and sat on the cushiony benches under it. In less than a minute later, Sasuke came to sit next to him, holding two boxed lunches.
Naruto beamed. "You brought lunch!"
"Hn."
Putting the boxes on the table beside the benches, Sasuke opened it and Naruto's eyes glazed, it was all his favorite dishes. The scenery before them was very beautiful and the lunch Sasuke made was looking very delicious. Honestly, he could never hope to be in any place else.
"Sasuke, why are you so good to me?"
The raven haired male wasn't done, he ruffled inside his pocket and closed his fist onto something, before anything else was said. He opened his palm and two golden rings showed. Naruto's eyes widened. Sasuke was always a man of actions not of words, without further ado, he took Naruto's left hand and gently put one of the rings onto his ring finger. He gave the other ring for Naruto and gestured for him to do the same.
However, Naruto was shaking, his eyes still not following the fast, wonderful event that was happening. Tears were softly falling from the corner of his eyes, he rubbed his eyes to clear his vision and silently, put the ring on Sasuke's finger. He was filled with so many emotions. Sasuke didn't ask to marry him, nor did he make any random promises. Honestly, the whole thing was filled with nothing but the silence and the occasional drizzling of the rain, but Naruto felt it was plenty.
This was enough.
He was content.
He was happy.
He was loved.
Brining his arms around Sasuke, he enclosed him in a tight embrace and allowed their lips to touch in a passionate kiss, which they didn't pull from until the need for air was mandatory. Naruto didn't know how long they stayed holding each other like that, their food was already cold, but he just didn't want this moment to ever end. Sasuke's cold body temperature was a little bit warm in his embrace, telling him that the one before him was alive and healthy. From now on, they will continue living their lives like that, always together, in sickness and in health, until death due them apart.
A vow without words. A vow of a lifetime. A vow that both will honor until their last breath.
"I love you."
THE END.
Thanks for sticking with me~ I would appreciate your reviews. I want to know what you all thought about it. Anyways, I'm happy as long as people read my stories. Thank you for getting this far!