Author's Note: I'm sorry for taking so long to update. Enrollment and online classes have started recently, but anyway, here is chapter 1. Remember this is Rated M for lemons, violence, language, and sensitive -ahem- situations, if you know what I mean. ( ͡~ ͜ʖ ͡°). So please don't forget to follow, review, or favorite this fanfic
DON'T FORGET TO REVIEW, FOLLOW, OR FAVORITE. "Life After Wave."
Chapter 1:
Moving Forward and Confessions
It's been a week since Zabuza's gone; Haku was still grieving about his death; he felt empty and depressed without him.
When Zabuza died, Kakashi, Tazuna, and the other Wave villagers decided to honor his memory, so they gave him a hero's burial at Wave's Cemetery. Haku appreciated the funeral they gave to Zabuza; at least he did not die in vain; his tombstone was made-out of strong silver, and on top of it, was engraved as Zabuza Momochi "The Great Swordsman of the Mist." And "One of the Heroes of Wave."
Naruto and the others were worried about Haku's well-being. Kakashi told and explained to Naruto that it would be better if he would approach Haku since he has known the boy more than the rest of them, and it was his responsibility to look after him.
For the past week, Naruto would bring Haku his food, but his food was left untouched as usual when he came back. Naruto understands the pain, and loneliness Haku is going through. Losing someone can be very painful. Like him, he lost his parents on the day he was born. The whole village hated his existence. They blame him for the Kyuubi's attack that cost hundreds of innocent civilians, and shinobis live at stake, and Naruto could not blame them, even Kurama. It wasn't his fault; the villagers hated him. He blamed this tragic incident on a certain man who destroyed his life. Once he got stronger, he promised himself he would avenge his parents' death and the people who lost their lives during The Kyuubi's Rampage.
Good thing Kurama helped him, he remembered the day when the fox told him that he should go to the Hokage's office at night and have a private talk with him, and so he did.
Seven Years Ago
At the Hokage's office, Sarutobi Hiruzen's desk was-filled with many paper works; he hated this part of his job. Resolving issues and concerns must be avoided to instill peace with the villagers. Many villagers protested and complained about a four-year-old toddler who caused havoc and mischief in the village. Most people want the boy dead. Still, Sarutobi wouldn't let them. He would not let his student's only offspring to die.
When Naruto was only an infant, he decided to put him in the orphanage; even if the caretakers were against raising the 'cursed demon infant' they needed to follow the Hokage's orders.
Sarutobi wondered it was nearly a three-weeks since he hadn't heard about Naruto's well-being. Were the caretakers treating him well? Sarutobi was sure the assigned guardians of Naruto were taking care of him since he was paying them above the average because if he weren't, he'd take matters into his own hands.
Suddenly he heard a knock on his door. Sarutobi came to his senses and said, "Come in." Sarutobi was shocked to see the boy that was on his mind a while ago.
"Naruto, what are you doing here…how did you get into my office?" still stunned to see Minato's son in the middle of the night, he was sure his Anbus was on guard at his door, but he saw them unconscious on the floor.
"That is not an important matter, old man. I came here to talk to you," It was not the voice of the child, the voice was deep and it held a lot of malice. Naruto's face was distorted from anger, his teeth were sharper, his eyes were slit-bloody red, and his whiskers were very defined. He could sense his powerful chakra stronger than his. It gave Sarutobi a chill to the bone. Standing in front of him wasn't a little boy but a demon.
He gulped," What do you want to talk about?" he asked, but he knew what Naruto came for answers.
"I want to know who exactly I am, Kurama "The Kyuubi No Yoko," told me everything, and he says to come and talk to you in private, so he helped me sneak into your office by using his chakra." Sarutobi's eyes widened in horror when he mentioned the Kyuubi. Sarutobi was sure the demon fox was sealed inside of Naruto, so how did he get out? Maybe he was controlling and brainwashing Naruto.
"Listen here, "Kyuubi" if you're listening, I won't allow you to control Naruto or even hurt him. You have caused too much pain and tragedy in this village, and I will die protecting it." Sarutobi begins to use his powerful Jutsu; he stopped when he heard Naruto spoke.
"Old-man, you listen here. Kurama is not controlling me or possessing me. I'm still in control of my body and mind, so that you know, and the fox is still sealed inside of me. He's only lending me his power so I can sneak in and talk to you." To prove his point. Naruto's features returned to normal. His eyes weren't slit-red, but blue, his teeth were in a standard size, and his face returned to its original features.
There were no more signs of the Kyuubi's manifestation, but Minato and Kushina's genes were present. His deep blue ocean eyes and blonde hair reminded him of the fourth Hokage, but his face resembled his mother.
It saddened the Hokage. He sighed.
"Alright, I'll tell you all about them, but first close and lock the door so that I can explain to you everything…in exchange, you have to tell me about your newfound powers and your association with the Kyuubi, understand?"
Naruto wanted to make sure if Kurama is okay with first.
"It's okay, kit, tell him everything about me."
"Kurama says it's okay, so I'll tell you everything that I learned about him, including Kurama."
As promised, Sarutobi told Naruto about the moment of his birth.
He put Naruto in the orphanage to care for properly. He told him that he was giving financial support for four years to the caretakers. He also told him about Minato and Kushina's lives from they were young until they become adults.
Naruto learned he had a Kekkei Genkai from both of his parents. His father, the fourth Hokage, and the Yellow Flash of Konoha had a very strong-release Jutsu. His mother's side as an Uzumaki possesses a very strong bloodline, they were known to have an incredibly strong life force which can both endure and survive most grievous injuries plus incredible longevity, which explains Naruto's quick healing. Still, it only increases thanks to Kurama's powers. Many people knew the Uzumaki's history as the best seal-masters in the world.
Sarutobi also told him about the hidden seals and techniques that his parents left him behind to train and master them all once he turned at the right age. He also told him about the land and house that his parents used to live in when they were alive. His parent left him quite a fortune for him to use when he grows up. He explained that his identity as the Fourth Hokage's son must be- kept a secret because his father had too many enemies outside Konoha and the fact that he was a Jinchuriki. Naruto listened carefully, and he finally understood the older man. In return, Naruto told him about the day his caregiver kick him out of the orphanage three weeks ago and how the Kyuubi befriended him and helped him survive from the villagers' wrath. Naruto also told Sarutobi about a mysterious man named Tobi who controlled and ordered the Kyuubi to destroy the village on the day of his birth.
This new information shocked Sarutobi; he was angry and disappointed in the villagers and the caretakers who were supposed to look out for Naruto. Still, it seems his orders weren't being followed. And this Tobi person that Naruto mentioned seems familiar, Sarutobi will investigate that later, but first, he needs to deal with Naruto's predicament.
"Alright Naruto, since you've told me everything so far, I've decided to put you in my care and train you myself with the help of some of my former students and trusted ninjas to teach you. I also have decided that you are now the sole official heir to both Namikaze and Uzumaki Clan. I give you access to your parents' heritage until you come-of-age, but please, Naruto, let this conversation be a SS top secret to only my former student and trusted ninjas who will know what you are until then train very hard. You will no longer stay in that horrible place. You will stay with me from now on."
Unexpectantly, Naruto kneeled-down and bowed to Naruto. "I want to apologize for leaving you all this time, but I promise I will do my best to raise you to become a great ninja in honor of your parents' wishes."
Naruto was shocked. The leader of the Hidden Leaf Village was apologizing to him; he was embarrassed, but at the same relieved like a weight has been lifted-up in his shoulders.
"Jiji, do you mean that?" Sarutobi was surprised and looked up to Naruto. The little boy was crying; he felt guilty for leaving him; it was too late to make up for his mistakes, but better late than ever. Sarutobi wiped the boy's tears away and smiled at him
"I promise you this Naruto, and no one will hurt you again as long as I'm alive." Naruto hugged the older man and thanked him.
Sarutobi gave him a sincere smile and hugged now his new adopted grandson.
Present Day
Naruto reminisced how the old-man had helped him in so many ways; without him, he wouldn't be where he was right now.
Naruto is determined to help Haku get over his depression, but first, he needs to open the door without breaking it.
"Hehehe seems you missed your girly-boyfriend, eh kit? " Kurama teased Naruto. "Once you open his door, you'll end up kissing him and do more…ecchi things." Kurama snickered. Naruto groaned.
Ever since Naruto had discovered "Icha-Icha Paradise," his whole perspective of the opposite and same-gender changed. He can't believe his Jiji's former student was an ero-writer, a child his age shouldn't have read that, but curiosity got the best him. Once his Jiji and teachers find out what he's reading. Naruto was-scolded and had the "talk" with them; it did not go well.
Naruto flushed in embarrassment, "Shut up, you pervy old-fox, help me open the door so I can see Haku."
"Don't pretend you don't like it. It was your fault in the first place, and you read that book with so much passion, I know you are still hiding a copy in yo-" Naruto cut him off. He did not need to hear him continue.
"I get it sheesh, just help me out already."
"Alrighty then," and with that, Naruto quickly opened the door with ease. "Haku, I'm coming in; I can't deal with you not eating anymore."
Naruto was horrified by what he saw.
Haku was looking like a lifeless doll. His face was sickly pale, and he lost a lot of weight due to not eating for the past six days, his eyes had large eyebags under them, his face was expressionless and dead—this cause Naruto to put down his meal and immediately embraced the broken boy.
"N…Naruto?" Haku asked in a weak voice.
"That's right, Haku, it's me. I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere" Naruto felt like he would break Haku at any moment, considering how fragile and soulless he looked right now.
"What shall I do now, master?" Haku said in a low weak voice.
"Huh? What are you talking about, Haku?" He felt uncomfortable when Haku called him 'master.'
"My old master Zabuza said that I am yours, right? I am now your sole property, and you can do anything you wish to me. My life, my body, and soul…they're now yours."Haku said seductively; he nibbled Naruto's ear. He could feel Haku's breathe near him, which made him flushed. Naruto felt something hard in his pants.
Once he realized the situation he was in, Naruto shook his head and pushed Haku away, landing forcibly in his bed; he wasn't in his right mind. He had the urge to do it, but not like this.
Naruto was worried he pushed him too hard, so he went back to his bed. "Haku, I'm sorry. I-"
"Why?"
"Huh?" Naruto looked at him, confused.
"Why? Am I not that desirable? Or is it because I am a man? Haku looked up at Naruto as tears were pouring down his face.
"No, Haku, that's not it." He knelt-down and went closer to Haku's side.
"Then…why?"
"It isn't right, you know?" Naruto said, but Haku just laughed dryly.
"There's nothing right at all…master. My purpose is only to serve you and your pleasures, so make use of me while I still can ." Naruto has had enough of Haku's words, so he put his hands on his shoulders and said, "Hey, look at me." Haku wasn't looking. He remained silent. Naruto was getting annoyed by a minute; if Haku wants to play as the loyal servant he is, Naruto will do it, just to get his attention.
He looked serious and said in a deep but demanding voice, "Haku, I order you to look at me." Somehow it worked on him. Haku was looking down at his new master, eye to eye.
Naruto noticed the height difference between him and Haku and how close their face was just a few inches, and he'll end up kissing the broken boy. He snapped out of his thoughts and went back to being serious.
"Haku, listen to me. I promise Zabuza I'll look after you and make sure you won't end up alone; you don't have to do this, you know? I don't want you to think that you're an object to use and later thrown at, you're a human being, and you have the freedom to do whatever you want with your life. "
"My life has no meaning at all, Naruto-sama. I do not have any purpose anymore." Naruto looks dejected at his response, but he wasn't ready to give up on him.
"Then…let me be your new purpose," This got Haku's full attention, "If you think you aren't needed, I need you. If you think you aren't wanted, I want you. If you think nobody in the world would give a damn about you, then think of me instead..." Haku looked straight into Naruto's eyes; despite being shorter and younger, he held a lot of wisdom and a hidden maturity beneath his innocent face. Somehow it made Haku's body heat. He looked quite different from the happy-go-lucky child he was.
"Naruto-sama….." Haku whispered his name in a low voice.
"Remember what Zabuza's last words are if he's looking at you right now, I'm sure he doesn't want to see you like this, Haku," when he mentioned his name Haku's face darken.
"Remember when you told me about your past? You told me your whole village, including your father, killed your mother because of your Kekkei Genkai?" Haku nodded sadly. He clearly remembered them. It was one of those memories he wishes he could forget but couldn't.
"Well, my whole village treated me the same, thinking I was the demon-fox." Haku gasped. For now, it was his turn to learn about Naruto's story. Starting the day, he was born from where he was right now. And as he told everything to Haku, it made Haku's heart wrenched.
"How can they blame a child for destroying the village?" Haku thought. When he first met Naruto in the forest, he suddenly felt a connection towards the younger boy. His eyes were the same as his, alone, miserable, and hopeless.
He knew the boy had experienced a lot of pain in his life just by looking at him, and when Naruto told him everything, he finally understood him.
Like him, he was an outcast to society. He was an orphan, a lonely soul; his life was more tragic than his. A few people close to his parents took care of him and raised him to be a fine young man.
"That's why Haku…I consider you to be one of you my precious people Haku, and you're worth it, you know? You said it yourself when you have someone precious to you. You'll do anything it takes to protect them. So Haku, what do you say, will you come and follow me? And kindly please stop using honorifics around me. Just Naruto is fine." Naruto said as he offered his hand to him. Haku's eyes begin to sparkle with faint hope as the sadness in his heart started to fade away, thanks to a blue gladly took his hand and gave him a beaming smile.
"Hai, Naruto"
Naruto smiled and blushed a little bit. He's glad to have his friend back
Two weeks Later
After the conversation, Haku had with Naruto. Naruto made sure Haku was in good health, took care of the feminine boy very well, went to his room every day to feed him or talked to him, and Haku liked spending time with Naruto. It made his heart warm. The next day, Naruto suggested that they go outside of his room to walk and see other places that Wave has to offer. At first, Haku was hesitant; Naruto promised he would be at his side if he feels left out or nervous. Haku sighed and told Naruto to wait outside his room to change. Naruto nodded with a smile and left his room.
Thirty minutes later. Naruto waited impatiently for Haku, "Why is he taking so long?" he thought.
"Maybe it's because he's hiding his feminine private parts so you won't see it," Kurama added teasingly.
"What the- you're a perverted fox, aren't you?"
"Hehehe, you've been spending your time with him for almost two weeks now, and yet you haven't got the nerve to see him naked. If he was a boy, then it should be fine." Kurama had a point. Come to think about it, every time Haku would take a bath or change his clothes, he always told Naruto to look away, and Naruto understood and respected his privacy. Looking at it now, he wondered why they never bathe together. They were both males, so there was no problem with that. Maybe he was hiding something from him that he should not know? An ugly scar or a very embarrassing birthmark? He didn't know.
"Hey, kit, your friend is done changing. Better get ready." Naruto snapped out from his thought as he heard the door open.
"I'm sorry it took a while, Naruto-kun." Naruto's jaw dropped.
Haku's long straight, silky hair is pulled up in a ponytail; he wore a stunning blue kimono showing off his slender and curvy frame. His footwear consists of sandals and cleft socks, and he smelled like fresh flowers. When he saw him the first time, he thought he was a prettier girl than Sakura, but seeing him now 'pretty' was an understatement; Haku was gorgeous than any girl he had ever seen. No. He's the most attractive being in the whole universe. Okay, he might exaggerate a bit, but it was the only way he could describe Haku.
"Naruto-kun, is there something wrong with my face?" Haku asked. It was about two-three minutes since Naruto was staring at him.
"Gorgeous…." Naruto blurted out his thoughts without thinking, which made Haku blushed furiously.
Naruto realized what he said and quickly panicked.
"Gahh…uh. What I mean is you look exquisite in your kimono Haku-chan." It only made Haku's blush worse.
"Dang it! Why won't my mouth stop?" Naruto thought.
Inside of Naruto. Kurama is laughing at Naruto's situation.
"This is why I like you, kit," Kurama said inside of Naruto's head.
"Shut up, you pervy-fox!"
A few minutes later, Naruto and Haku calmed down and went to greet Team 7 and Tazuna's family. They were surprised to see Haku outside of his room with Naruto. What is more even surprising is that Haku looked different. He wasn't thin and sickly anymore, thanks to Naruto. His looks were very alluring, and it made little Inari blushed.
Sakura looked defeated that her Sasuke was looking at the feminine boy.
Kakashi didn't say anything. He had to agree that the young man before him looked like a mysterious, beautiful woman character from one of his favorite Icha-Icha books.
Tsunami and Tazuna were amazed at how striking his looks are.
"Hey, guys! Haku and I decided to go outside for a while if that's okay with you?" he asked them and looked at Kakashi.
Everyone in the room snapped out of their thoughts and stared at the young blonde.
"Sure, Naruto, but be sure to be back before dinner." Kakashi broke the silence and smiled at his pupil.
"This will be their first date….hehehehehehe," Kakashi thought knowingly.
Naruto nodded and took Haku by the hand as the two went outside the house.
When they were in town, Naruto noticed that many villagers greeted them with smiles and admiration. He looked embarrassed by the attention they were getting, but ever since he and the rest of his team saved the Land of Wave, they were hailed as heroes, especially him, Haku, and the recently deceased Zabuza. It was a very different but fantastic feeling. He always dreamed of being acknowledged by other people through his hard work. In Wave, he was a hero, but in Konoha, he was nothing but a demon.
Haku remained neutral, deep inside, he wasn't used to getting this much attention, he can't help but feel getting many stares from all the men they passed through, it gave him shivers, he got a bold idea to prevent the staring.
He reached for Naruto's hand and leaned closer to him; he noticed that the younger boy grew at least two inches by the past two weeks, while looking closely at Naruto, with his spiky messy blonde hair, tan skin, with a slim yet tone body built, but what got he's attention is his gorgeous cerulean eyes, his three defined whiskers in cheeks, and his foxy smile.
Give him two to three years, and Naruto will surely grow up to be a very handsome young man. He could even defeat Sasuke in the looks department if he wanted to. The girls or even some boys were missing-out on Naruto back in the Hidden Leaf Village. Haku noticed that many women older and younger were staring at Naruto with admiration in their eyes, and some were a little bit inappropriate. Naruto was already a lady-killer at his age, even without him knowing it, and it made him angry for some reason. Not with him around as Naruto's 'friend,' he must look after him and make sure Naruto is with someone worthy of him but deep inside, it pained his heart when he thinks about Naruto with somebody else.
Naruto was wondering why Haku was very close to him, despite the height difference. Haku leaned his head on his hair as they hold hands. He didn't mind the close contact he was receiving from the older boy. He liked getting close to him, but it was bizarre for someone like Haku to do something so bold, and the strangest part is he often glance at him and look at the female villagers with a cold, deathly glare. He was oblivious to why he would do that. He didn't dare question him, so he ignored it and proceeded to walk.
The pair went to eat at a nearby local restaurant for lunch. After that, they visited places they never went to before in Wave. When they passed through the village, they felt pity for the villagers, deeply affected by the greedy small man's tyranny. They were rebuilding their houses, destroyed infrastructures, and other damages that Gato caused. The villagers noticed the two young boys and smiled and greeted them with great admiration and appreciation for what they did to save their village; still not used to the attention, Naruto and Haku just smiled waved back at them.
Three hours later
After walking around, Haku told Naruto he would like to visit his adopted father's grave, and Naruto asks him back if he was sure about his decision, which Haku nodded, so they went to buy flowers and candles, after that they went to the graveyard and visited the former swordsman's grave.
Haku stiffens when he saw his adopted father's tombstone. He felt the sadness came back to him. He shook his head and placed the flowers in his grave, while Naruto light up the candles to prepare a prayer for Zabuza.
They both stayed silent as they gave their respects to the former swordsman. Naruto heard a small cry. He looked at the person next to him and saw him crying.
"Haku," he said his name in a whisper. "It's okay to cry. I know how hard it is to lose someone you love, and it takes time to heal the pain, so take your time to grieve. I'll always be there for you if you need me." He put his hand on his shoulder to reassure the grieving boy. Haku couldn't take it anymore. He knocked Naruto down the ground and embrace him as he sobbed in his jumpsuit.
The shorter boy did his very best to comfort his older friend until he calmed down.
They stayed in the same position for the past fifteen minutes, Haku still embracing Naruto for comfort, ceased his crying and looked at Naruto in the eyes.
"Feeling better?" Naruto asks the weeping boy. Haku nodded slowly, but he whimpered and hiccupped in a small tone, which Naruto find adorable. They stayed like that for a few more minutes, and both boys stood up and fixed themselves up from the ground. Naruto looked at Zabuza's grave.
"Hey, Zabuza!" Haku is shocked about the sudden outburst of Naruto.
"If you're listening from wherever you are, know this, I intend to keep my promise, and that is to make Haku happy. I'll train extremely hard to meet everyone's expectations, even exceed them, so I can protect all the people that I love, including Haku. So better watch out cause I'm going to show everyone that I, Uzumaki Naruto, will become the strongest shinobi of all time, believe it!" he gave his signature thumbs up and foxy smile directly to Zabuza's grave.
Haku looked at Naruto with amazement and admiration in his eyes. This energetic young boy who has been through so much pain and suffering than he could have experienced ever can smile so genuinely. It made his heart leaped, seeing him like this, declaring that he was one of the few people he considered important. He admired Naruto's tenacious behavior. Instead of living in a life of hatred, anger, and revenge, he was strong enough to never give in to those dark emotions. If he were, he would never be the Naruto he knew now. It made him shiver just by thinking about it.
Haku is inspired to live a life with hope and light with Naruto at his side, so he joined the younger boy's speech.
"Father, if you're listening right now, I want you to know that I will live through your dreams," he looked at Naruto at gave him a sweet smile, "with Naruto at my side, I know we can be stronger together, so please watch over us and guide us….," he chocked his cries as he continued, "I miss you father, not a single day have I ever stop thinking about you. After my parents died, you were the only person who took me in and trained me to become a strong shinobi. At first, I thought my purpose was only to serve you as a weapon, but after what you said, I realized you haven't treated like that at all…to you, I was a family, and I felt the same…so father….thank you for everything you've done. I promise to live a blissful life, and I shall not waste it…I love you….father and I will always remember you in my heart." Haku and Naruto felt a cold but a familiar breeze around the air.
Haku knew Zabuza was watching and listening to them in the afterlife, and it gave him a sense of relief, but as for Naruto, he gulped as he looked at Haku.
"He's watching us from the other side, isn't he?" Naruto looked scared for some reason, which Haku finds amusing. He felt like he had to tease him a little bit.
"I like to think so, why the pale face Naruto-kun are you afraid of him that he is going to hunt you….if you break your promise?" Haku said jokingly.
"Me sc…scared of being haunted by your master? N..n..never!" Naruto was trembling in fear. Haku giggled at Naruto. He may be wise beyond his years, but he was still a child.
"I would never dare break a promise, and besides, I've been training kenjutsu with Kakashi-sensei for the past week so I can wield Kubikiribōchō naturally in the next few months. The scrolls you gave me were pretty-hard to understand. Thanks to Kurama and my Kakashi-sensei, I was able to get it in just six days."
Haku was surprised. He never knew the younger boy would train immediately. He grabbed the boy's hands and saw the scars and marks from the results of his training. They were like Zabuza's, but Zabuza told him that it took him nearly three years to master the hidden powers of wielding the Kubikiribōchō, and for Naruto, it only took him days.
He may not look like it, but Naruto was a born genius.
"You're living up to Father's dreams. Thank you, Naruto-kun." He was grateful and happy that Naruto is taking his training seriously.
"I should be thanking you and Zabuza-san, we just met four weeks ago, and yet after we defeated Gato and his minions, your father trusted me his most treasured possession; because of him, I met you." Haku's heart begins to flutter when he looked at Naruto's open eyes. The older boy could not hold his feelings any longer, so he pulled the younger boy and kissed him directly on the lips.
Naruto's eyes widen in disbelief. The beautiful boy was kissing him on the lips, not that he complained; it was shocking. Haku's lips were very soft. He tasted like strawberry.
Haku realized what he was doing and broke the kiss. He looked at Naruto and saw the shock in his eyes.
"How could I be so stupid? Even if he acts wisely beyond his years, he's still too young. I'm the older one I should have known better." He scolded himself. He felt a pang of massive guilt and shame in his chest as he lowered his head.
"Naruto-kun, I apologized for my shameful behavior. I shouldn't have done that." He couldn't look at him in the eyes. He felt ashamed of what he did.
Naruto didn't know what to say. He was trying to process what happened. Naruto had received kisses and hugs from certain people close to him, but he never kissed like that before. He was trained by the best ninjas in the Hidden Leaf while growing up, and during his hard training, he was taught everything he knows of being a future shinobi, including complicated morals, life lessons and future situations he would face. Like, right now.
"Kit, say something. You're making the situation even worse. It's obvious he likes you more than a friend." Kurama butted in. He gets annoyed when Naruto was so dense in the romance department.
"Hey, it's not easy getting kissed by a beautiful gir- I mean boy like Haku. How should I know he likes me that way? And for the record I'm into girls, I don't swing that way" Naruto learned from his Jiji's hidden Icha-Icha books that there were many kinds of love. It could be familial, friendship, or romance from the opposite gender and sometimes the same gender.
Haku's feelings for him were romantic.
"Are you even sure you're straight?" Kurama asked.
"Of course I am...until I met Haku."
"Then what's stopping you?"
Naruto didn't respond anything.
"You're giving me a headache here. Just say something, for crying out loud. No wonder you never had a girlfriend…or a boyfriend. You are too slow." Kurama snapped back at Naruto's head.
"Geez, fine, but I'm going, to be honest with my feelings."
"That's the spirit!"
Naruto's silence was making Haku nervous by the minute. Haku knew he had strong feelings for the boy, but Naruto would rather have a girl as a lover than a boy.
When he was younger, and Zabuza was still alive he learned about his preferences. He liked to wear girly dresses, skirts, care for cute animals, and sometimes wear make up. Haku realized he was different from other boys. But Zabuza didn't judge him. He accepted him for who he is, which made him happy.
Back to reality. Haku felt disgusted with himself. It felt like a kick in the gut. He kissed him out-of-the-blue without his permission and yet it felt kind of right doing it. He reminded himself that Naruto would never feel the same towards him, and he's still too young to be doing those intimate things like that.
"Haku, look at me." Haku stiffened when Naruto spoke. He did not want to look at him straight in the eyes.
"I'm not angry Haku, Will you look at me? Please?" He spoke in a gentle tone, which made Haku stare back into his gorgeous cerulean eyes.
"Why did you kiss me?" Naruto knew what he was about to say. He needed to confirm if his feelings were genuine or not.
"I..I," He stuttered. He felt weak against his knees. Haku reminded himself that this was Naruto. He wasn't the kind of person to judge others so easily.Just like Father. He breathed deeply and mustered the courage to confess his feelings.
"Naruto-kun, I like you. I always have from the moment we met. I knew there was something special about you at first. I brushed it off and denied my feelings as nothing more than an interest. After knowing you for the past weeks, I noticed my feelings grew stronger for you. I tried to stop it but I couldn't. Whenever you were near, my heart starts to pump excitedly. I hope you know that I do not regret kissing you. My heart and mind keep telling it was the right thing to do, and seeing how kind and selfless you are made my heart leaped. I could no longer hold myself, and so I kissed you." Haku felt a sudden weight has been-lifted in his shoulders, but he was still nervous about what Naruto will say. Will he reject him for liking the blonde boy? Does Naruto feel the same? Questions keep bugging his mind until he listened to him spoke.
Naruto breathed deeply; he knew what he was going to say. In times like this, his Jiji and teachers told him to be honest with his feelings.
"Haku-chan, I feel flattered that you feel that way, and I appreciate your honesty, but I'm not ready to be in a relationship," Haku's heart sank. "Not yet, at least..." He looked up at Naruto, surprised at what he said.
"Look, Haku, I'm not going to lie. I do feel attracted to you. When we first I thought you were the most beautiful girl I'd ever seen," Haku blushed furiously, embarrassed when Naruto complimented him. "But then you told me that you were a boy. I was shocked. Never have I thought that a boy like you would possess such outstanding beauty. As I got to know you, my attraction to you grew more. Not only are you beautiful but also knowledgeable, kind, selfless, and strong ninja. You're an exceptional person Haku, you know? Any person would be lucky to have someone like you as their partner." Naruto gave his foxy smile to Haku.
Haku liked his smile. It was one of his favorite parts of him.
"Does that mean I have a chance with you?" he asked hopefully. If he wants to remain friends, it's okay for him, Naruto confirmed he feels the same way towards him, so there is still a chance. Whatever his answer maybe. Haku will accept it wholeheartedly.
"I'm not saying yes, Haku," Haku's hurt wrenched in pain. "I'm not saying no either…." He stared at the blonde boy, perplexed. "What I'm trying to say is I like you too, Haku, but I need time to grow. I hope you understand that maybe in two to three years when I'm ready, who knows what the future may have stored in us, in short, let's take this relationship slowly and maybe it will develop into something more…if you'll wait for me that is." Haku could not believe what he was hearing. It felt like music in his ears when Naruto said he liked him back. It didn't matter to him even if he waited for two or even twenty years. As long as he was by his side, it was enough for him.
"Thank you, Naruto-kun." He embraced the younger boy, and he felt him hug his waist.
"Anything for you, Haku-hime," he felt a shiver in his ears when the younger boy whispered his new nickname to him. He never knew he had that effect on him. Naruto is a natural charmer.
"Naruto-kun, when will we leave Wave?" Haku asked.
"About three more weeks until the bridge is complete, why'd you ask?"
"I was thinking. My father left me quite a fortune when he died. I think it would be better to share the money he gave me with the villagers. It's the last thing we can do for Gato's misdeeds. I can't do this on my own. Will you help me?" Naruto liked the idea.
"Sure thing!" He gives him a thumbs up.
"You know, this is kinda embarrassing professing our feelings in front of Zabuza's grave," Naruto said sheepishly.
Haku nodded blushed in embarrassment, but it gave him a sense of happiness and relief that his feelings weren't unrequited.
The young pair realized it was sundown.
"We better get going, Haku, or else Kakashi-sensei will get worried." Haku nodded and stared at his father's grave.
"See you later, Father, we'll visit again next time." Haku thought, he felt a breeze near him, it felt familiar until he heard a whisper.
"Be happy, Haku." Haku's smiled lovingly. He knows his father is watching over them.
When they went back to the house, they went to the kitchen to see everyone seated in their respective seats for dinner. They noticed the change of air in the atmosphere when Haku and Naruto came. They suspected something good happened to them.
Sakura felt a twinge of anger in her chest when she saw how closed Haku was closed to Naruto.
"Why do I think about Naruto? I should be thinking about my Sasuke-kun." When she stared at Sasuke, her jaw dropped when she saw Sasuke was glaring at Naruto. For some reason, he felt jealous of the boy.
Kakashi, Tazuna, and Tsunami looked at the pair. They noticed the two had gotten closer than before, and they knew they had feelings for each other. It was evident to them they were both crushing on each other, which earned them a smile.
"Ah! Young love, it kind of reminds me of my wife." Tazuna thought, remembering his deceased wife.
"Awww! How adorable they make such a cute couple." Tsunami squealed silently.
"This would be a good plot for the next Icha-Icha Paradise." Kakashi thought perversely.
Inari had no idea what was going on.
Three weeks Later….
The bridge was finally complete, and the people of Wave were beginning to move on and prosper from Gato's reign of tyranny. Thanks to Team-7, Haku, and Zabuza, the Land of Wave were in peace again. While they were in Wave, they helped fix the broken damages in the village. Haku donated three billion to the Land of Wave, which made the villagers happy. They even gave Haku a nickname as "The Generous Hero Maiden" because of it. And as for Naruto, they named the bridge after him.
When the day arrived for them to leave the Land of Wave, it was emotional for the villagers to see their heroes go, but they knew they had a life to live back in the Hidden Leaf Village, so they said their goodbyes and made sure to revisit them someday.
While Kakashi, Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke were walking, they noticed Haku was walking behind them.
"Are you alright, Haku?" At first, Sakura asked the feminine boy. When they first met she didn't like him because of what he did to Sasuke and Naruto.
After talking and getting to know him better for the past three weeks, Sakura realized he wasn't hard to get along. She learned that they had the same interest in being a medic-nin; they were the same age; they talked and discussed medical stuff. They talk about make-up and fashion. Haku may be male, but he knew a lot about women's fashion. He's used to dressing like one after all. They became good friends in a short time, but she still felt a little ache in her heart when Haku was close to Naruto.
"Nothing, Sakura-san, it's just I'm feeling nervous about going to the Hidden Leaf Village," Haku admitted. He lived his life as a missing-nin and a mercenary for nearly eight years with his adopted father at his side, but that all changed when he died. He reminded himself that Naruto was at his side, and he would never abandon him.
"Haku Hidden Leaf Village is different from the Land of Mist if you're old home doesn't accept you because of your bloodline, it is the opposite in our village, there they accept powerful ninjas that possess a strong bloodline like yours. I'm sure you'll get in with no problem. Have you forgotten that Naruto is the Hokage's adopted grandson? With him at your side, I'm sure the Hokage will have no issue making you a resident of the Hidden Leaf Village." Kakashi reassured the feminine boy. Sasuke grunted in agreement. Hidden Leaf Village is known to be the most potent village globally; by having one of the strongest bloodlines of all time, no one can ever match their power.
Haku nodded and looked at Naruto. The younger boy smiled at him and gave him a thumbs up. Haku breathed profoundly and shook out the negative thought that was bothering.
The four continued their journey home until they reached the closed gate of the Hidden Leaf Village.
"Welcome to the Hidden Leaf Village, Haku-chan," Naruto exclaimed excitedly. The feminine boy laughed at his excitement.
Kakashi looked at them with interest, while the other two smiled at Naruto's words. They were finally home.
Haku was in awe. Staring at the Hidden Leaf Village's large gate sounds like a dream to him. He will start his new life and live here with Naruto, which matters to him right now.
Author's Note: Again, sorry for the delay. I had to make this very long chapter to make up for a lost time. Chapters 2 and 3 are already in the process, and I will publish it promptly. I apologized, but chapters 4 and 5 will be a bit delayed. School lectures, modules, and assignments have been non-stop this past month, and I need to earn an excellent grade to maintain my honor's role at our school, so please understand, I'll be back soon with two uploads for chapter 2 and 3. Please don't forget to follow, review, or favorite my fanfic. In my story, Sakura and Sasuke are good. That's it. Ciao!