Sparks 7

"I've come here with no expectations, only to profess, now that I am at liberty to do so, that my heart is, and always will be, yours." - Sense & Sensibility

"Would you stop looking over there?" I hissed at Jiraiya. He kept turning his head to stare at the busty blonde behind us. I had thought it would help him focus on the task at hand if we were elsewhere, however he instead continued to look back at her.
We were standing right at the bar; he was getting his sake and I, my water. The Gambling Hall was like any other Gambling Hall - high walled, grand and smoky. I could hear the smooth jazzy tones of the singer and band playing in the distance. There was a restaurant off to the side and even a dance floor though it wasn't being used.

Jiraiya turned to me and leaned against the counter.

"This is hopeless." He muttered.
"Doesn't matter - we're just here to get an answer. The sooner you know, the sooner you can either move on or enjoy a new adventure." I told him. "Knowing is half the battle, after all."

"It sounds like you're quoting something." He grumbled, staring at me from the corner of his eye.
"Mm - half the time I am, luv." I sent him a grin. "Shall we let her come to us? Or is that too out of character for you?"

Jiraiya groaned, and buried his face in his hands. Slowly I watched him pull himself together and paste on a bright smile.

"Let's go say hi." He grabbed his bottle of sake and cup and moved towards the poker table. I followed closely behind. I supposed he wanted the direct approach. Personally, it wasn't a favorite of mine in this context - but being that the two had a lifetime of history, it was probably best.

Right before we reached the table, I caught up to him and whispered, "Remember, no flirting."

He only grunted before turning to the source of his affections for the past forty-ish years.

I put on my best clueless but cheerful look and readied myself for the eventual proverbial dance this would bring.

Tsunade was.. lively, in a word. She didn't have Jiraiya's tolerance for alcohol and she was a lousy bet. However, there was something fierce behind those brown eyes of hers; even while rip roaring drunk the utter determination and zeal she possessed was fascinating. Mind you, I don't think she won a game all night, but it never broke her resolve to continue. Over all, I could see where Jiraiya's love for her came from.

When we got close, Jiraiya walked right up to the table and sat right down - no greeting or anything. The woman in question glanced up in surprise.
"Jiraiya? Well - I haven't seen you for awhile." Tsunade greeted him, and when she saw me surprise flickered across her face. "And who's this? I thought women wouldn't get within range of you. Especially the young ones."

Jiraiya heaved a big sigh, and waved a hand my way. "My publicist sent her. They thought she might help me focus on my manuscript."
"They must not know you very well." Tsunade replied with a laugh. She eyed me curiously, "You got a name?"

Ahh - I forgot that detail. I couldn't go with my usual, and I didn't know where to go with Japanese names.

"Tami." I said, pronouncing it as so many others here had as Tah-Mi. How was it that Hyuga at the Hospital acted? Meek and shy? Mm - best way to be invisible here. I avoided eye contact and pushed my hair behind my ear.

"Just Tami?" Tsunade proded.

"Yes. Just Tami." I laughed nervously, cleared my throat and looked away. Hopefully Tsunade would get the hint that the family name made me uncomfortable (I didn't even know where to begin with faking a family name). Hopefully she would assume I had a horrible family past and wouldn't broach the subject.

"Wanna be dealt in?" Tsunade offered to both of us. Jiraiya eyed the table and back to me.
"Eh, too rich for my blood right now. I'm not nearly drunk enough." He grumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. Tsunade let out a laugh.
"What about you, just Tami? Wanna play?" Tsunade's grin was near predatory.

"A-ah, no~ that's okay." I said as politely as I could, waving my hand as I'd seen done so many times.
"Can you believe it Shizune?" Tsunade sighed. The brown haired woman beside her was holding a tiny piglet.

"Maybe it's a good time to stop for the time being?" Shizune tried, she was glancing between Tsunade and the poker chips with concern practically written in her gaze.

"Maybe not. All or nothing!" Tsunade cackled, pushing all of her chips in.

I watched on in shock as the woman soundly lost moments later. Hadn't Jiraiya said she was his teammate? She therefore had to be a ninja - what on Earth was with the Shinobi? They were so strange. Certainly, each one I had met were certainly characters.

"How about we get dinner?" Shizune offered again.
"That sounds like a lovely idea." I agreed. Both Jiraiya and Tsunade shared a look before they agreed.

The way Tsunade stood and left the table one would have thought she didn't lose all of her money in cards. The carefree way she acted was befuddling. It wasn't until dinner rolled around that I was able to see Jiraiya and Tsunade interact. Shizune and I kept out of the way while they bantered.

Tsunade and Jiraiya had a fascinating friendship. They would joke and banter as grand old friends, she would tease him about his perverted tendencies and he would poke fun at her horrible luck. How they hadn't gotten together was beyond me. Perhaps it was only because of Jiraiya's over-the-top nature? Or was it that he tried to woo her too many times and she just got into the habit of turning him down? Or perhaps it was something I didn't know? Her friend, Shizune probably knew. I wondered what it could be. Mmm - time to poke the idea with a stick.

"A-ah, Shizune?" I stuttered, meekly pushing my hair from my face, "Could - um…"

Shizune turned to me, "Yes, Tami?"
"I need to use the restroom, but…" I glanced towards the direction of the restrooms fearfully. Shizune picked up on it immediately.
"Oh! I can go with you." Shizune offered.

We both made our way to the restroom. When we entered, Shizune leaned against the door, looking at me in a way I wasn't sure I liked.

"You're not with Jiraiya's publicist, are you?" She asked.

Mmm - she was rather clever. And rather bold. This little act impressed me more than I could say. She didn't take me at face value. Mind, I was barely prepared and I probably would have been able to sniff me out had I been on the other end of this - but still.

"And why…?" I asked quietly, peeking at her from around my hair.
"They never sent anyone before." Shizune explained. I stayed quiet and she continued. "But what I don't understand is why you would be with him anyways. I've never met a woman who would even stay around him for very long. Not unless they're paid."

"Then you're worried about Jiraiya?" I asked.

"No." Shizune denied.

She must be concerned on Tsunade's behalf. Well then. Makes sense, in a way. But why? It was a bit of a stretch.

"I'm a friend. I'm assisting Jiraiya with something. If we can get to the bottom of it, he's going to help me with what I want."

Her gaze narrowed. "Is Tsunade involved?"

Ah there we are. Jiraiya's reputation clearly preceded him.

"Barely." I crossed my arms and leaned against the sink. "Is there a problem?"
"Is he going to try something?" Shizune stormed towards me, her eyes flashing. The picture was slowly becoming more clear. Shizune was out to protect her friend at any cost. For that she had my respect - she was clearly a good sort. Well, we'll see if I can clean this up. With Jiraiya's history, I should have expected this. However, this kind of thing wasn't my normal bit. I briefly wondered if Shizune was a ninja herself - she was rather quick on the uptake.

"We're not trying much of anything. The man -" I breathed in slowly, and turned to look Shizune head on. "He's carried a torch for the woman for, what? Forty years at the very least. I thought it might be helpful to-"

"To what?"

"To see if he has a shot, or if he should just let sleeping dogs lie. I've requested that he do nothing of his usual sort." I explained.

Shizune's shoulders dropped; she watched me in a mix of shock and surprise.

"Sometimes cruelty is kindness. If there's nothing for him here, certainly there's someone for him elsewhere." I explained.

It was Shizune's turn to be meek as she pushed her hair out of her face in an attempt to compose herself.

"So he's not here with some scheme?" Shizune murmured.

"Besides seeing if he has hope, no. There's no scheme, luv." I explained, "I wouldn't do that to another woman. I heard his schemes. Better in a reject fiction draft, to be sure."

Shizune took the moment and collected herself. She turned to me and then froze suddenly. "Oh! You wanted to use the bathroom!"

"Mm - you only got the jump on me first, luv. I was hoping you had some details for me." I grinned at her.
"W-what?"

"You don't see it then?" I asked, nodding my head to where we both knew the two were.

"See what?" She countered, not seeming to understand what I meant at all.

"They've some chemistry. Truly, the fact that something hasn't happened is either testament to Jiraiya's over-the-top nature or Tsunade simply being stubborn." I explained.

"Or something." Shizune muttered. She looked uncomfortable.

"Or something I don't know about." I finished. I stuck my hands in my jacket pockets, watching her.

"Well…" Shizune began, "You're not going to-?"

"I'm not interested in forcing something."

Shizune exhaled slowly and gave me a weak smile. The final puzzle piece was complete. Kato Dan was the reason. From all things that I heard, he was a hard man to top. I could easily see why Tsunade had chosen to remain alone after losing such a man. From the way his niece described him - it made perfect sense. And, with that, I wondered why Jiraiya neglected this? Certainly he knew. Perhaps, he knew he couldn't compete with a dead lover. Perhaps, that was the reason he had been so nervous. I don't know what I would think, if I were in Shizune's place and I had lost my Uncle. Torn, I bet. The happiness of the woman I my Uncle had loved, versus the memory of them. It seemed I had my work cut out for me.

I sent Shizune a smile, and looped my arm through hers.

"Come on, then. We must get back." I told her. She hummed, looking at me curiously out of the side of her eye.

"What are you going to tell Jiraiya?" She asked as we were heading back.
"Truly? I haven't a clue." I told her and Shizune nodded thoughtfully.

When we arrived back at the table, the food had already arrived and the two were absolutely schnockered. They were sitting there, laughing like two year olds at a joke only they knew. Perhaps it wasn't love like Jiraiya wanted, but there was something there. I didn't know if I had it in me to dissuade him from continuing with Tsunade if it came to it. I could still hear the band, but the singer seemed strained somehow. Perhaps it was nothing. I hopd it was nothing.

"Did you fall in?" Tsunade asked me when she saw us return. I didn't know if I should keep up my ruse so I blithely shrugged. I had enough information to mull through. No more need to be invisible, no more need for an act.

Shizune returned to Tsunade's side, lecturing her on her lack of restraint.

Jiraiya was giggling, his face bright red.

I fought off the urge to roll my eyes. And that was why I didn't drink. The liquid reduced ordinary smart people into absolute fools. I did promise Jiraiya I would respect him - and so I would.

Shizune and I helped our respective wards up and out at the end of the night. They both were sloshed. I was rather jealous of Shizune to be honest. Jiraiya was rather heavy and wasn't able to walk well without some support. Tsunade was in the same state, but she at least would be lighter. I was only thankful Jiraiya's hands didn't wander, although he was rather close being that he had to lean on me. We both headed to a hotel, stumbling as we went. Because he was completely out of it, I had to pay for the night.

"She's so pretty." He gurgled.

"Mmm - do tell." I mindlessly carried on our one-sided conversation.

"I know - I know you l-love me. B-but Ts-Tsunade! She's - she's the one for mee~."

"Oh. Well, I do hope I'll be able to love again." I told him, patting him on the shoulder comfortingly.

"You think - you think she likes me?" Jiraiya looked around to find her and pouted when he realized Tsunade was gone away with Shizune.

"I think you have found a friend of a lifetime, luv. To have that is a fortune indeed." I said to him as we entered the building.
"Where'd Tsunade go?" He murmured.

"She went with Shizune. I'm sure we'll see them tomorrow." I pulled out the key for our room. I had to juggle both him and the key.

"... good." He nodded, leaning into me. He snuggled my hair and sighed. "You smell pretty."
"Jiraiya, behave yourself or I'll tell Tsunade." I threatened. He pulled away with a groan.

"Noooo~ don't - don't tell."

I dropped him off at the bed nearest the door. He giggled at that and I tried not to grumble.

"It's time for bed." I waved both of my hands at him in a shooing motion. He pulled at the pillows and blankets trying to get comfortable.

I let out a deep sigh at that. Well. This was more trouble than I thought it was going to be.

A groan the next morning alerted me to the fact that Jiraiya had awoken. He was clearly in pain. I nearly wanted to drop a book on the floor for the trouble that he caused me, but I decided against it.

"There's water on the table." I told him quietly. He grumbled a tired thank you before rolling over to get it. It took him all of five minutes to finally ask:
"What did you think? Did you find anything?" He looked at me over his shoulder, squinting.

I breathed out evenly before beginning, "There's something there. I can't put a pin in it, but she feels something. I can't say if it's just a respect grown from a lifetime of knowing you or if there could be something more. But methinks your over-the-top attempts are doing nothing to help you."

He pulled himself up to a sitting position and turned to me. He rested his elbows on his knees, watching me over his interlaced hands.

"What do you think will help?"

"Something simple. Something not so in her face." I began. "If I went into battle assuming I would lose, and over did every attempt at wining - do you think I would get far?"

He snorted, leaning back and crossing his arms.
"Okay, I get it. But what would you have me do? There's no way…"

"Mm. Perhaps. I heard about Dan, by-the-by."

He grunted, turning away.

"I don't think it's stopping her from finding a new love. But I don't think it's helping either." I advised him. "Keep it simple - no ogling, none of your usual. Give her a flower, offer her a dance and if.. And if nothing happens I would strongly advise to perhaps consider backing away out of respect."

His face fell. I couldn't believe this is what this trip was turning into. However, perhaps it was best for Jiraiya? He had tried for a lifetime and yet nothing. Maybe there was a woman out there, his age who loved his series? Perhaps one who would appreciate his odd eccentricities? Part of me doubted it, but with him so focused on Tsunade how would he ever find her? And maybe with him not being so focused on her, perhaps something could grow if she did feel something for him. There were far too many questions, and far too few answers.

"So you don't think she-?" He paused, and in turn rubbed the back of his head. "I mean, I knew. But to hear it so…"

"I don't know. I don't even know if she even knows. There's signs that she could like you, but perhaps you're just-" I fumbled for the right words, "friend-zoned."

I hated using that word, but sometimes it was the case. Perhaps he didn't have the qualities she wanted in a man? Perhaps something else was off about him? Perhaps. Again - I didn't know.

"Friend-zoned?" He repeated with disdain.
"You know - when they just see you as a friend and… and that's all." I explained gently.

He stared at me in astonishment before groaning and burying his face in his hands.

"That's horrible! Who would even make that up?" Jiraiya complained. I sent him a feeble grin and shrugged.
"Love is a battlefield." I quoted.

"I think I've gotten less bruises on a battlefield." He said.

"Come on. The show must go on. We'll see this to the end - maybe you can pull off a last minute win, ah?" I tried to encourage him. He heaved a big sigh before agreeing. We headed over to the local flower shop for him to pick up something to give her. I had hoped it would be a simple event but I had to talk him down from trying to buy HALF the store.

"No. Jiraiya! Just one." I said in a no-nonsense tone.

"But, there's so many and it-"

"One! Just one! Pick from the left hand side, it's near the best ones to pick from with the best meanings." I told him. He only started at me before going to study the flowers in depth. I didn't know how much more I could take after that. I had to step out and get a breather. I nearly walked right back in when I saw who was raging towards me.

Tsunade herself.

I flinched, knowing the battle that was coming my way. I gave her a friendly smile and approached cautiously. It was best to keep her away from Jiraiya. I didn't want his chances ruined because of me and my telling Shizune of our plot. Clearly she told - Tsunade certainly wasn't coherent enough last night to truly remember much.

"Well, if it isn't Just Tami. It's nice to see you again." She was well roused in that anger of hers, her tone bordering hostility.

"Tsunade." I greeted, my eyes flicking to the top of her head, "how's the hangover, luv?"

The firm line her mouth formed after my remark made it very clear I was walking on thin ice.

Well. If she broke bones, Jiraiya and I would have a very, very serious talk. I tried not to think about what Tsunade could do to me - what Jiraiya told me she had done to him.

"Where is he?" She growled.

"Elsewhere. Probably nursing the same hangover you're struggling with." I reasoned. I wasn't going to tell her he was in the shop behind me. "Truly, I thought it best to see the Shoppes. There's a cute little pastry Cafe down the way I was thinking about poking around in. I've been hankering for a scone for months, luv. You know how it is."

"If you think -" she began but stopped. "I've told him no. And now you're here to, what?! Change my mind!"

"I've no interest in changing anyone's mind." I told her simply. I began to move towards the pastry shop. It was better when someone was angry to have them move. Then their attention wasn't focused solely on myself. "Come on. Scones on me."

Her eyes narrowed but she followed me closely.

"Then what are you here for?" Tsunade growled again.

"Honestly, consider it a farewell." I started out, checking her reaction. Shock flickered through those fierce brown eyes of hers. "You've said your no. I've told him to try something simple and if - no, when it doesn't work to strongly think about finding a new Lady Love. I've requested he not be his normal over the top self and try something sincere. There's other fish in the sea, luv. Certainly there's someone for him too."

That took the wind from her sails. She watched me, I could nearly see the gears turning in her mind to try to wrap her head around the idea.

"Clearly, he's been trying for, what? Ten years? If it hasn't worked then, well - perhaps it's best." I reasoned.

"Ten years? But it's been-" she cut herself off and eyed me warily.

"Oh? Was I wrong?" I asked innocently, "I thought you nineteen."

Tsunade scoffed and punched me playfully in the shoulder. At least I assumed she meant it playfully, however it hurt like the Dickens.

"Why would you do that? For him?" She asked once we reached the cafe.

"He's a good sort, despite his eccentric nature. You know it better than I. However he's not… he's not good at selling himself. Sometimes it's a kindness to be cruel. When this doesn't work, I plan… well, professional courtesy. Were I in his position, I would rather someone break my heart than allow me to continue to follow after the impossible." I told her carefully. It was the honest truth. While that last bit of information she didn't need to know, I needed her to know it. I hoped that if there was any sort of flame there for him, maybe she would act on it or allow him to woo her. Or if there was truly nothing, she would deny him before he even tried. She only stared at me, her jaw slightly askew.

"You're going to break his heart." She murmured.

"What's worse? A broken heart or continuing after something that'll never be in reach?" I said softly. I gave her a weak smile. "Don't worry about a thing, luv. Keep on. We'll be out of your hair in no time, ah?"

I entered the cafe but she didn't follow. All of a sudden scones were the last thing I wanted, too. I couldn't blame her for leaving. I watched her leave through the window. Perhaps she would help him move on without me. Or, otherwise, give him the chance he had been desperately fighting for nearly his entire life.

I eyed the bakery goods, trying to decide if I wanted anything but the passing wish had left just as Tsunade had. With that I backed away and returned to Jiraiya. He carried a Gladioli in his hand. I raised an eyebrow at that, fitting to be honest.

"This counts as one." He defended his flower choice. I eyed the multiple blooms on the stem.

"Of course." I said humorously. "Had I known better, I would have thought you picked it for the meaning."

"And it means…?" He asked.

"It's a forty year aniversary flower. It's a flower reminiscent of warriors, and that the receiver has pierced the heart of the giver."

He stared at me, stunned.

"It's a flower."

"Of course. But it's rather fitting, don't you agree? Maybe Lady Luck will side with us, as she seems to have abandoned Tsunade."

He chuckled at me before we headed back. It wasn't until far later that we met up with Tsunade. I could see it in her eye that she was still thinking about what I had said. Jiraiya and I had our plan. It was simple, he would try to be charming and joke and banter with her - offer her a dance and then later walk her to her room to give her the flower.

However, there was a problem. When we arrived at the Gambling Hall, there was no music playing at all. Jiraiya turned to me, concern flickering in his gaze. He was still nervous, I could see it in the way his shoulders were set. I never told him Tsunade knew. Hopefully him believing she didn't know would give him that edge he needed.

I would have to take care of the music, one way or another. I had a feeling I would be preoccupied - one way or another. Either by entertaining Shizune or - or otherwise.
"I have the band situation." I nodded towards Tsunade and Shizune (who both stood very stiff), "Be good. Be honest. Better to be rejected on your best foot forward than a false one."

I left him there, heading towards the information desk.

"Where's the music?" I asked when I approached. The clerk looked down his nose at me. He probably had heard the question all night.
"The singer is out sick." He told me simply.

"But no music at all?" I questioned. He frowned at me and leaned forward.
"The proprietor's wish is that only music comes with a singer or none at all." He told me, still looking down his nose at me.

"You must be joking." I won't lie - my jaw fell open. How would this make sense? Certainly some mood music would work. How could they not have that much?
"I am certainly not."

"And the unders- the backup?" I asked,

"We've none." He answered shortly. "If you have such a problem with it, you get on stage."

I popped my jaw. At least there were no other Konoha ninja in town. I hadn't seen a soul from Konoha (besides the obvious) since I arrived. No bird-head/eye emblems to be seen, for sure (Yes, I've been told it's a leaf but it doesn't look like one at all). At least here I would only be singing in front of the gamblers and drunks. Jiraiya probably knew how well I sung. And it wasn't like Tsunade would tell a soul, or Shizune. I would prefer any Konoha Shinobi to not know of that particular skill in my arsonal. I imagined it would take away any professional appearance I could have scraped up as a ninja. I needed to help Jiraiya. He needed all of the help he could get. If this worked, I could potentially get home much sooner.

"Certainly. Gather the band. We'll have a grand old time, luv." I told him sharply. "Tell them any four chord song will do. Well, they've more freedom than I. I'll work around them. Any tune will do."

It was his turn to be out of sorts. He gaped at me before pulling himself together with a sharp sniff.

"What?" He stared at me like a dead fish. Truly, this man should get a move on.

"Are we or are we not going to make this work? Come on then, get on with it." I waved my hand at him in a hurried manner. "I imagine you're losing money without mood music."

"Yes but a screeching woman will do worse." He argued.

All it took was singing a few bars and he shut right up. We traded some further quick words before he hurried me into a dressing room fit for a diva.

"Your hair is so short." The clerk complained. "Put on a wig, you look like a man."

I glared at him, "I rather look like a man than sound like an old woman."

That shut him right up - after I slammed the door on his face. The man was nearly Silver-levels of irritation. At least Silver never called me a man. Instead, I turned my focus to the room and what I needed to do.

The outfits were beautiful, but geared more towards the Japanese aesthetic than the Western I was used to. Suddenly, I was ever more grateful for Inoichi's wife for teaching me things. Had it not been for her, I would have been well lost among the silk kimonos and other fine linens. Makeup was quick (I kept it classic), and I found a long blonde wig. I might as well make the clerk happy. He was helping Jiraiya, and by extension myself. I had things to get done.

I recalled every lesson on being a well bred woman as I headed out towards the stage. Might as well do the job well.

I wondered briefly what my mother would think of me here, now. Her stage was a grand one, in front of millions - her voice like an angel, her range and skill was inspiring. I had watched her growing up, parked in front of the TV when she came on in specials. I thought my mother was the best singer in the world, I had aspired to be just like her. I took every course I could to be like her, to get to that Operatic range she thrived in. When I ended up in Theater, my father scowled and my mother - well, she seemed disappointed. I never knew, she always had the look of a helpless doe about her. And now? I had just traded a theater stage for entertaining gambling drunkards. Indeed, how the mighty have fallen.

I pressed a calming hand against my stomach as I approached the stage. I had to press on. The band had already arrived. They looked at me curiously as I climbed the stairs.
"Do you know our set?" The pianist asked.

"No. But I can improvise. Give me a tune and I'll see what I can do. Simple, please." I requested.

The band shared a look before the first song began. It was jazzy - upbeat. Not simple. But I could see from the eyes of the men it was intended not to be. I would have my work cut out for me.

I started off with Another Day of Sun from La La Land. I couldn't see Jiraiya anywhere as I sang. For all I knew he was somewhere, brokenhearted with broken arms. However, I had to have hope that he would know what to do. He wrote enough about love to be at least somewhat competent. He just needed to believe in himself.

Come on girl, focus. Happy songs. Romantic songs. You can't be down in the dumps. I thought to myself, forcing my mood to shift. I had to think about lighter subjects, truly feel the songs I sung.

I could feel the band behind me gaining courage as we carried on. I was no national star like my mother, but I could carry a tune.

Our next song I had to match their beat. For fun I chose Don't Stop Believing by Journey. It was an easy song, perfect for getting lost in. However I did so miss the incredibly classic opening. But my audience didn't know what they were missing, luckily. And so every song thereafter, carrying through my patched attempt to match the words with the rhythm: Save Tonight, Journey to the Past, Singing in The Rain, and as well as some other classics I could pop in. I scoured my brain for songs to sing. I was able to do a handful by memory. The band seemed to take part in the adventurous nature of it all. The bass player seemed to come alive. The Pianist's fingers simply danced across the keys. The Trumpeter had to play around his grin. They were well versed and amazing to work with.

We carried on throughout the night, well after I requested a couple slow songs for Jiraiya specifically just in case it went good for him. I hoped it was going in his favor. It was well into the evening before I was able to step away and leave.

"Thank you so very much for the privilege to sing with you." I thanked the band who smiled in appreciation. Although they may be performing for drunks and gamblers they were a fine band.

"It was a pleasure." The bass said. The Pianist shared a smile as well.

I bowed to the men, as elaborate as I could for them. They blushed as I parted ways. It must have been that Walker charm. I quickly went to the dressing room and changed back into my clothes.
I was well tired but I wasn't done yet. I poked around the area and Jiraiya couldn't be found. Nor Shizune or the illustrious Tsunade. No one. I went hunting outside - nothing. I was sort of concerned, maybe it went horribly and Jiraiya was in a ditch somewhere? I looked and nothing.

I couldn't find him anywhere. The town was quiet and he was simply gone. I prepared myself for the worst when I headed back to the hotel. Certainly he would end up there eventually? Was he there nursing his wounds?

I unlocked the room and pushed in.

"Hello?" I called - no one. There hadn't been a person in the room for some time, at least from what I could tell.

Nothing. I sat on the bed feeling absolutely drained and unsure. Should I continue to look for him or wait for him to return? I don't know if I could just wait but I could think of nowhere else he could be.

I couldn't help but pace eventually. I nearly left the room again before his large frame burst through the door. His face was bright red and he had the biggest grin on his face. I didn't know if it was him being happy, or if it was simply the fact that he drowned his sorrows in alcohol.

It wasn't until he pulled me into a very stumbling waltz that my answer came.
"Good news?" I asked skeptically. I was sure he would be denied. What was he doing, dancing?

"She agreed to a date!" He crowed with a laugh.
I was torn - that was a win for Jiraiya? I didn't know how to process that. It was neither a no or yes. It was just a date.

"Ah - well, when?" I asked.

"Next Friday! She said yes to a date!" He carried on. I patted his shoulder awkwardly. I didn't know what to do with myself or him. I was so sure Tsunade would just leave him somewhere. Either yell at me or him. Or break our bones collectively. I hadn't quite thought anything would happen. I had hoped at best maybe Jiraiya would send me pity jutsus.

"That's good. What - what happened?" I asked him, pulling away. He chuckled and sat heavily on the bed across from mine.
"I was simple." He told me, with no other explanation. He fell back onto the bed, his arms spread out.

I sat on my bed, staring at the happy man, unsure of what to do next.

"Did you get your dance, at least?"
"Yeah." He sighed in contentment. "She stepped on my toes."

That sounded more like what I expected, but he seemed happy about it. Maybe it wasn't intentional? Or, worse, it was?

"On purpose?" I hedged, trying to figure out what happened without me.

Jiraiya hummed tunelessly.

"You sing good." He muttered under his breath.

"Thank you. I hoped it worked well for what you wanted."

"I got a date." He repeated with glee.

I hadn't been hoping for just a date for Jiraiya but he seemed happy for it. That was all I could do. Hopefully, Jiraiya could do something good from here on out.

It took a few days for Jiraiya to get me back to Konoha. He remained just as peppy and jovial the entire way back. He never answered all of my questions, keeping everything vague. He had a large smile, a bounce in his step and a sparkle in his eye that wasn't there before. I never knew how a date ever was that grand of a thing to a man like Jiraiya, but that was one thing I never questioned. If anything, he needed the win and I wasn't going to take that away.

And so, back I went to my pretty bird-cage in Konoha. I arrived late one night, only the street lights were awake at that hour. I climbed my way back to my apartment and entered quietly. My apartment was a mess. Ramen containers were everywhere and an empty milk container was laying on its side on the floor. It seemed someone had attempted to clean the stye, but had given up. I thought the boys were at their home, as they weren't on the couch waiting for me. It wasn't until I entered my bedroom that I found them.

Sasuke was curled up on the bed, clutching my blanket in his grasp. On the floor, lay the snoozing Naruto who appeared to have fallen out of the bed from how his legs were propped against the bed. He was fiercely cuddling my pillow. How that boy slept in those strange positions, I'll never know. It seemed I had been missed more than I thought. I gently picked up Naruto and nudged over Sasuke.

"Tami?" Sasuke awoke, rubbing his eyes.

"Move over. I just got back." I told him quietly. He tiredly complied and I laid down. I would have left them be but I wanted my bed and I was too tired to even try to figure out the couch situation. I must have been tired as Naruto's snores didn't phase me in the slightest. Within seconds, I was out.

The next morning the boys were still there. Sasuke was up far before little Naruto. Sometime in the night, Naruto had traded my pillow for snuggling me. I was fine with it, playing with his hair while he snoozed.
"He made a mess in the kitchen." Sasuke told me grievously.

"He did indeed."

"Are you upset?"

"No. It was to be expected. Naruto doesn't have - he didn't have your upbringing, darling." I told him.
"You're too nice to him." Sasuke said, his shoulders were stiff.

"Am I too nice to you?" I questioned. Sasuke seemed confused, but I waved my hand.
"Naruto needs someone. Just like you do. Just like everyone. No one can make it in this life alone. Right now, he nearly is. A messy kitchen is the least of my worries. Or his." I tapped his nose playfully, and it scrunched right up.

"If you let someone in, bad things happen." Sasuke grumbled.

"Ah, and if you let no one in even worse things can." I said with a grin, "I mean, look at me - what would I do without you two checking up on me and my gremlins? My kitchen would have been far worse."

The smallest, tiniest hint of a smile danced on his lips. Suddenly it fell and he frowned at me.
"Naruto said you're planning on leaving."

I sighed and nodded regretfully, "I've a family somewhere out there, waiting for me. But while I'm here, while I'm around - I'm here for both of you."

"What will - what will Naruto do if you leave?" Sasuke asked, turning his face away. I knew it wasn't Naruto he was concerned about. Sasuke only tolerated Naruto for my sake. They didn't seem to mesh very well, although Naruto seemed to truly look up to him. It was almost like a sibling relationship.
"Oh - he has this lovely new friend who I think can look out for him. I think he understands what it's like. But it isn't even something on the horizon yet. For me to go home, it requires quite a bit. It could be months from now - years, perhaps. It's nothing to worry about now. You'll get warning before I go. I won't leave without telling you goodbye." I explained. The stress in Sasuke's shoulders didn't leave but he did turn to look at me again. Finally he heaved a big sigh.

"We have school." He said before getting up.

"And miss a gorgeous day such as this? Sasuke, methinks you need a bit more fun in your life." I told him. I shouldn't be considering allowing them to miss a day but I missed them. Sasuke was nine working on ninety. He needed this. And Naruto needed the positive attention.

"I need -"
"We need to make a snowman." I told him with a grin. He looked at me as if I was crazy.

"Missing one day won't hurt. I've missed you both and we can make up for what training you'll miss."

"How?" Sasuke asked, curiosity coloring his voice.

"Snowball fight." I told him seriously. He stared at me as if I were mad. Perhaps I was, but he wasn't complaining later.

Naruto's aim was… less than desirable but we certainly had our fun. At some point Naruto and I teamed up against Sasuke and dumped snow down the back of his shirt and coat. He retaliated, trouncing us both thoroughly in a flurry of snowballs.

Later on, after Sasuke had gone home for the day Naruto shared with me his photos while I was away. He sat in my lap, and in his lap the camera lay as he flipped through each photo.

I had told him no one was to know, but Naruto seemed to have selective hearing. The first couple of photos were of different things. He took a photo of his favorite Ramen stand, as well as different sticks he found in the wild. He even got a couple different animals he thought I would like. He somehow got an up-nose photo of Sasuke. And, he also had a picture of a little Hyuga girl whose name I didn't know but she seemed vaguely familiar.

"She's nice." Naruto told me.
"She seems so. You do remember I said no one would know about this, right?" I asked him sternly.

"Oh… oh yeah!" He laughed nervously, "I forgot. But I didn't tell her about it, so it doesn't count."

"Mmm - already trying to shift rules, ah?" I scoffed, ruffling his hair. He laughed and continued to flip through the photos, telling me about everything he saw. He skipped over one suddenly, but I chose not to ask about it. Naruto hid the strangest things. I would look into it another day.

"Can I borrow your camera sometimes?" Naruto asked me.
"As long as you abide by the rules and don't show people the camera - that's okay." I bargained. He sighed out as if I told him he had to run a marathon before acquiring it.
"Okay." He agreed.

Naruto later left the camera in my care, telling me he would see me later. Soon enough I was back at work and the world was back to normal. Jiraiya came by before he left to say goodbye.

"Thank you. I know it wasn't exactly what was promised, but I'll keep up my end." Jiraiya told me, "I have more than enough material for a new book too!"

He laughed boisterously, and I shook my head in amusement.
"Good luck, ah? Keep that attitude, and I'm sure you'll do well. Just don't… you know." I gave him a small smile.
"Sure - anything for Konoha's very own Canary." Jiraiya told me with a huge grin.
"What?"

"You sing like one." He explained.

"Keep it down. I don't need anyone knowing about that." I hissed at him. He laughed at me again before bidding his farewell.

One would have thought that it had been the highlight of my night. Jiraiya was happy, he would be sending me anything on summoning jutsus he found, and the boys were doing well. However, that wasn't the best part. The best part was when Silver walked in. Although I didn't want to see him again, I certainly wanted to get even with him (the cad).

So, if he didn't want to be looked at - well, I was more than able to help him with that.

When he made his way in with that talking dog again (Pakkun, was it?) I soundly ignored him. All thought-out his shopping, I pretended he didn't exist. I focused on my other tasks, completely ignoring him while he stood at the register, practically boring a hole into my head with his gaze. If that wasn't enough, I figured I would add a little something to the mix. A little earworm to remember me by.

Harry Belafonte was a favorite of mine, but he had a particular song that tended to get stuck in one's head. I certainly wasn't about to sing it, but the tune itself would work. After all, one should whistle while they work. So, I whistled out Coconut Woman while he waited, boring holes into my head with his gaze. It was grand.

As I whistled on his agitation seemed to grow. I could see him from my peripherals. He wasn't trying to get my attention yet. He just continued to glower at me with his one eye. I could feel the back of my neck itching again, but I ignored it. He was doing something to cause it, I was sure (It only ever happened around him, and only when he was upset with me). But the show must go on! I carried on until his Pug companion spoke up.
"Hey, you gonna help us or just whistle?" He asked suddenly.

"Oh! I do beg your pardon. I didn't quite see you there, luv." I came over, intently pretending Silver didn't exist. His pug, Pakkun was a different story. He had no, ah, car in this race, so to speak. It wasn't fair to use him in such a way, but I hoped he would be a good sport about it all.
"You didn't see us." The pug grumbled.
"I think she means me." Silver said, his hands in his pockets. At least Silver caught on fast.

"Whom?" I asked the pug, making a show of looking around. "I confess, you're the only one I see."

The pug grunted, looking between myself and Silver. The look on his face clearly said he couldn't believe the scene before his eyes.
"Right…."

"I wonder how dedicated she is." Silver whispered to Pakkun rather loudly. I still didn't look his way. He hummed softly.

"So, I must confess - you are the only speaking Pug I've ever had the pleasure of conversing with." I carried on as if Silver weren't still staring right at my head.

"Yeah?" Pakkun prompted, seeming a little uncomfortable about what was going on.

"Mm." I began ringing up the purchases. "Quite the experience, to be sure."

I knew Silver was planning on something now, just to get back at me. Nope, not this time. I carried on my whistling of Coconut Woman, bagging up the items. I could see Pakkun's gaze dart from me to his boss and back again.

Silver was about to- ah, right on time.

Silver himself poofed, appearing on the countertop, squatting there, staring me right in the eye as I turned to get the next item.

I don't think he realized who he was dealing with. I controlled my reflex and continued to gaze beyond him, unfocused. I was an actress. My strength? Improv. I didn't even bat an eyelash at his antics, let alone break the tune.

I carried on with my business and called out the total. Silver thought he had me when payment came.

I turned to Pakkun expectantly while Silver had a bill he was trying to hand me. The man probably would have snatched it away the moment I tried reaching for it. Nope. Not today. It was my turn to Troll. Well, in my own way.

"Listen - I barely understand you humans as it is. I don't want to-" Pakkun began, and cut himself off as he glanced at his boss again.
"I've no idea what you're talking about, luv. Listen - how about I make this square. I'll cover this, as you had to deal with my pitiful customer service. The total is barely anything. I can't believe you had to sit here with me just whistling away. You certainly are welcome back any day, luv. That, ah, boss of yours I'd rather not have to deal with. He's an absolute scoundrel and troll. But you, well - you seem to be the canine among canines." I told him firmly. I picked up the bag and walked around the counter. Silver made it hard to interact over the counter anymore. I could still see him in my peripherals, watching me like a hawk. I set the bag down in front of Pakkun.

"Uhh, thanks." Pakkun stared at the bag and then back up at me. "Are you trying to say that my boss is…?"

"I've no such authority for any sort of banning or anything. I'm just well and truly tired of the utter nonsense brought my way. The ente can continue to be upped or it can be settled. I'm rather well through with being a punching bag for ninja who think it cute to terrorize harmless women. Rather pitiful, methinks." I carried on with a sigh. "I look forward to seeing you again, Pakkun."

I gave him a playful wink and settled out the account on the drawer. Silver still remained on the counter. I couldn't discern anything from my peripherals besides that he was there and he seemed to be studying me. With a toss of my head I left, whistling my tune.

I considered this an absolute win. It was the first time I hadn't run from Silver, the first time he didn't get the last word, and I wasn't left wanting to pull my hair out. He left sometime after. I probably will never know what's buzzing around in that head of his and I hoped I never would.

Maybe Silver would finally leave me be.

AN: So this is the longest chapter so far. I hope it makes up for last chapter which was the shortest, I think.

And my goodness you guys! I feel the love :') I gained, I think over ten followers and a few reviews. Thank you so much you guys! I'm thrilled you are enjoying this story and I hope you're still having fun with it. I'm having a blast writing it all. I hope the Tsunade/Jiraiya scenes made sense. Their relationship status doesn't have much to do with the story at large, but the stuff Tami did will have some impact :P

BONUS SCENE:
Kakashi watched the blonde woman walk off, whistling that strange tune to herself.

She didn't look at him once. Not even when he got right in her face. He didn't know if he should be annoyed or impressed. She called him a scoundrel and a troll (whatever that was). Slowly he stood from his position and jumped off the counter.

"I don't think anyone's ever ignored you before to talk to me ." Pakkun grumbled. The way he was shifting between his paws, Kakashi knew well that the Pug was feeling uncomfortable. That feeling was mutual.

"She's a strange human." Pakkun said as Kakashi picked up the bag. She had paid for their purchases just to continue her little prank on him. She had been that set to see it through.
"Yeah." Kakashi agreed. It was then he realized the woman had gotten him in more than one way. He told her not to look at him that one time - she didn't once. Additionally, he had gleefully told her she couldn't afford him - she just paid for his groceries. She kept him guessing, that was for sure. He hadn't quite met a woman like this. They typically came in a few varieties - easily impressed, shy, or scary. At the very least she provided some entertainment in the otherwise calm town. He didn't even bother her that much. He had only talked to her twice? Maybe three times? Kakashi wasn't sure about her. She usually was pretty jumpy - but not this time. He wondered briefly why before deciding it didn't matter. Maybe that training with Ibiki was paying off. He recalled her talking about it: tigers with toothaches. She was creative too.

"Let's go home." He murmured to the Pug. The duo left and headed out. Kakashi was halfway home when he realized that tune she had been humming was still bouncing around in his head. Could she have - no. Who would be able to predict something like that? She couldn't have guessed it would get stuck in his head. Or maybe she did? She had been whistling it relentlessly. Kakashi only hoped that the tune would be gone soon enough.