Sparks 22

Try again. Fail again. Try better.

- Samuel Beckett

I had thought Owl would be kind enough to not wake me up at ungodly hours in the morning (4:45am) but he is anbu and therefore cruel. He woke me up by jabbing me in my side with a pen he found beside my bed. I grunted, being rudely awakened.

I jumped when I saw his mask peering down at me.

"Don't you knock?" I whined.

"You didn't answer." He responded coolly. I groaned and forced myself up.

"I've not seen you in years and the best you can do is waking me up like that?" I complained to him. I tossed the pen at him. I didn't know what was more insulting. The fact that I knew he could dodge it and chose not to, or the fact it didn't even bother him as it bounced off his shoulder.

"You didn't write." He countered.

"Give me an address." I said back. He didn't even so much as twitch, "Look at you - gaining a sense of humor. Ever get that princess kiss, ah?"

He sighed loudly and left the room. He called back to me a quick, "Get dressed!"

So I did. I sort of had to. I wanted to start work.

As soon as I was ready for the day he escorted me to the Konoha Intelligence Division. It looked like a sad high school all things considered.

Ibiki hadn't been there, so I was just taken to a room filled with stacks of boxes and empty walls.

Fantastic.

They were barely even sorted. So, I started going through them one by one. They were mostly a hodgepodge mess. I started going through and sorting out different villages from the others - starting it that way. Some I was lucky and it was already set - the others? A mess.

It wasn't until a more reasonable hour that Ibiki showed up like a boss. He stood there watching me with a grim grin on his face.
"Do tell, do you always just loom in the darkness, luv?" I asked in amusement.

Agh! I finally felt like myself again. Back to something normal - my usual. It was so very nice.

"Come on. Time for that interview." Ibiki nodded for me to follow him.

"Interview?" I asked. Would Ibiki ever just play anything straight? Probably not. But I hoped he would. I was taken to the back room of one of their interrogation rooms. There were a handful of others there. Inoichi was there of course; he did work in the same building.

"We found this one poking around the walls. Time to show us what you got." Ibiki told me.

I looked past the one way mirror - a man was there. No headband, simple kimono - nothing fancy. He was cuffed to the table, facing the one way mirror. He looked ready. His hands were clenched, his pose wound and tight, as well as a stubborn look in his eye. Odd.

"How long has he been in there?" I asked.

"Couple hours. We were going to use our methods, but thought maybe it'd be a good time for you to show what you can do." Ibiki told me.

"And we know-?" I glanced at him.

"Nothing else." He said.

"Ah." I took the second to evaluate the man. He was rather calm, considering he was supposedly sitting there for hours. By then, your mind had already started to wander - play tricks. Him? He was watching the one way mirror expectantly.

"I'll be back. Powder my nose." I murmured.

One of the men scoffed.

That was fine.

Let him.

I turned on my heel and walked out. It took me about 15 minutes to pick up what I needed. A pot of tea, a couple cups, a nice pen (why was it that good pens were so hard to come by?) and a crossword. I needed a cover for my notes, and I wanted to keep the man unbalanced. He would be more likely to make a mistake.

"Where were you?" One of them asked as I entered again.

"Long line." I said with a grin. The man in the interrogation room looked more uneasy - good. But interesting that he looked so now. I wondered why. My first little clue. I slipped into the room.

Now they had the setup where my place would be right where the one way mirror stood. That wouldn't do. I put down my things and dragged the chair over to sit in front of the door.

It was all unspoken communication. He now knew he'd have to get through me to leave. I did see him stiffen for a moment before relaxing.

Hm.

"What a good morning it's been. Hasn't it?" I began lightly. I set a cup in front of him and poured our tea. I sat down in my chair and crossed my legs with my pen and crossword ready. "Forgive me - morning rituals. I'm rather sure you'll understand."

"What is this?" He asked, looking me up and down with disgust. Mmm - not even a slight bit of humor or unease. Not even a slight bit of easing in his shoulders - an enemy nin would have taken this as a sign of weakness, surely. As if their little ploy or act was getting them right by. As if I were just a foolish woman.

Well then.

It was time to play Daredevil once more. I heightened only my hearing. I could hear his heartbeat - calm and steady. I'd keep an ear out, ensure he was being truthful.

"Crossword. I must get one done in the morning or my day is completely thrown off." I said with a sigh. "I figured, two birds, one me - might as well make a bad situation good, ah?"

He stared at me with a slack jaw. I did so love keeping people off center. Fun.

"Right then. What's your name, luv?" I began.

"Why should I tell you?" He countered.

"Why wouldn't you? I'd rather get along with my day. Wouldn't you?" I said.

"You can call me Jiro."

Ah. Not his real name but a good starting point.

"Well, Jiro, what were you doing around our walls, ah? There is a gate you know." I said cheekily.

"Who said I was?" He said in a sassy tone.

And thus began our interview.

Within the first hour, I could whittle out some things. I had my notes compiled on my crossword.

The man was definitely a ninja. He was often forcing his reactions down. He wasn't Kusa - they were far better at it than he. He was trying to act like a nin from the Mist - acting like he enjoyed brutal killing. Mind, a great many did but not quite like a Mist nin. He was disturbed by Ibiki but not afraid of him coming and hurting him. He acted like a man who knew he would be leaving the building in one piece and soon. He was an illustrator, shown by how often he tried to speak with his hands. All in all, he wasn't acting like a man being interrogated. Even when I upped the ante and made him purposefully uncomfortable. I had a strong feeling this man was just a ploy. Ibiki hadn't been lying when he said it was an interview. I wrote on my paper a quick message to Ibiki: great way to meet my new coworker, thanks.

I stood up, and smiled at my probable transformed coworker.

"And with that, we're done." I said with a grin.

"I didn't say anything." Jiro said with a smirk.

"No. But your face did, luv." I told him.

His face fell.

With that I exited and handed my paper to Ibiki. He looked it over and barked out a laugh.

He handed the paper to Inoichi and hit the intercom button.

"Shinobu - come on out. She pegged you." Ibiki called.

Jiro's face fell.

"What! No way! She couldn't have!" He shouted. He dropped his henge with a poof.

Inoichi cleared his throat to avoid laughing; he was reading my notes on the events.

Shinobu was a man around my age but the lines around his mouth made him seem much older. He had a stern but inquisitive look in his eyes and he held himself much different than in the interview. He came out and scowled at me.

"How'd you do that? I didn't tell you anything. I didn't even admit to anything!" He asked.

"Micro-expressions, luv. They gave you away. And you're an illustrator. Best learn to keep your hands still or always moving. As well as you don't like lying. Your heart rate spiked with every one." I said. Shinobu frowned.

"Micro-expressions?"

"Small flicker of expressions. Those you can't control. Thus far, the only ninja I've found who have even remote control over them are the ninja from Kusagakure." I explained.

"Okay. Alright. Tami-chan, we'll be working together on some of the interviews if I need you." Inoichi said. I nodded, though I doubted he would. He was good at his job from what I saw.

"Alright. This circus is over." Ibiki said, dismissing us all.

Shinobu, another man and I left quietly. I went back to my room of boxes and continued my work until lunch. With that came other adventures.

To say speaking to Naruto about his actions were at the top of my list for the day was an understatement. I ensured to find him during my lunch break. His mission was done for the day from what I understood. I may have given him permission to prank his best, I didn't ever think he'd cross that line. I suppose it was just desserts. Naruto didn't seem to understand this, though. What were lines to be crossed for a boy who others didn't care for. I tried to keep that in mind. He didn't make it easy. Best to head this problem out now.

"I - ah - spoke with your sensei." I said, trying not to rub my temples in aggravation.

"Yeah? I did pretty good." He boasted.

"He also told me you gave him an eye-full." I said dryly.

"What's that?"

"That prank, featuring yours truly." I said, trying not to be upset. Naruto laughed nervously, scratching the back of his head.

"Yes. that." I said. He paused for a moment and then jerked back.

"Wait - you said I could prank him! Especially if he's late." Naruto defended.

"He's always late." I said flatly.

"Well - then I don't see the problem. You said I could." He crossed his arms.

"I didn't say you could turn into me to torment your sensei." I told him. He scowled at me. He was right but lines were crossed.

"This is the only warning you get. Do it again and I'll torment you in worse ways." I warned. The little snot had the nerve to laugh at me.

"Yeah - okay, Tami-chan." He said, "You say you prank people but you never do."

"Mmm. Best watch your step." I told him drily. I'd give him an idea of what he was facing. Naruto laughed again but stopped when he saw I wasn't laughing with him.

He'd learn.

"I gotta go, Tami-chan. I'll see you later." He told me. He ran off shortly after, waving as he went.

He certainly would. I returned for work - but after? That was when the fun began.

While he was away from his home, I may have gone through and done a couple things. His two extra orange outfits I tossed into the wash with a brand new bright red towel. I swapped his ramen cups out with toy replicas (I hid the real ones elsewhere) and his milk I poured down the drain to be replaced with rice pudding. I left a little letter on his table:

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

Transform into me again and you will regret it.

Love you sweetie!
Tami

Later, I could hear his horrified screams all the way from my apartment. I grinned to myself. I knew I'd have to replace his outfits in the very least but the lesson was worth it. He crossed a line. He probably wouldn't understand until he had it happen too. Naruto waited no time at all to pay me a visit. He burst through my door with his now pink outfits.
"What did you do!?" He shouted at me.

"Oh~" I began, thinking about my day. "I started work today. New job."

He scowled at me and shook his dyed jacket in his fist.

"I meant my jackets! They're PINK! I can't wear pink! What'll Sakura-chan think?!" He carried on. "And my ramen was gone! 'Ttebayo! My milk… my milk was thick and yucky!"

"Sounds horrible." I said dryly.

He scowled at me.

"Almost like we had an unspoken agreement. Like certain lines weren't supposed to be crossed. Like I respected you more, and wouldn't do such things. Right, Dear-heart?" I explained.

"That's exactly it! I can't believe you did that!" He growled.

I stared at him long and hard. Naruto just stared right back. Slowly, the pieces started to fall into place and he pulled back.

"Imagine if Sakura saw you in that pink jacket. What about Sasuke? Would you like that?" I asked quietly. Naruto's brow furrowed.

"I won't transform into you again." He grumbled.

"Thank you."

"I'm sorry." He mumbled so low I nearly missed it.

I stood and ruffled his hair.

"Come. I have a mess to clean and clothes to replace." I tugged him along. Naruto's gaze shot up from his shirt.

"You're-?"

"Didn't I say? If lines are crossed one must make it right?" I questioned. Naruto's jaw dropped and followed after me.

"Yeah, but I thought you just said that 'cause you wanted me to clean my mess!" He said. We went and I tossed out his trashed jackets and I bought him new. As well as milk and some groceries (I may have hidden a couple healthy options in the bag too. Just in case).

The following days I found my new rhythm; I continued to train in my down time in case, worked at the T&I department and tried to keep up with the boys as best as I could. The series started and I didn't want to be caught unaware. Who knew when things would go south. It could be any time. It could be soon.

So I started early in the morning - before work (which actually started at 7am. Owl was exceptionally cruel). I'd get up and be out running and working on my agility on Mondays and Wednesdays. Tuesdays and Thursdays I would work on strength. Fridays would be my only day of rest. Work was work - I was setting up a thorough look at the past movements other Hidden Villages to see what they could and would do next. The weekends were a free for all. Taijutsu, chakra awareness and focusing my skills that I already had. I did my best to not over do it. If I did I would get over worked and potentially end up in the hospital. I fit in the boys where I could. At night before bed - I started going through the scrolls. I had - I had to. I had to look at them. Get an idea what I was looking at. Was my situation hopeless? Or was there any chance I could get home?

Kakashi and I would run into each other here and there. He kept acting odd. Like asking me to lunch (he had bentos) and trying to feed me from his bento. I didn't quite get what he was doing. It was - strange? Another time he insisted on placing a raincoat over my shoulders - it was barely sprinkling. It was like he was trying to mother me. I figured he was just looking for a reprieve from his team - they were interesting from what I later found. The dynamics were a little wonky. It took a little bit to meet them all.

Team 7 had D-class missions to do. I did my best to not be nosy. I tried. But I couldn't help it! Sasuke's attitude was improving and Naruto was getting along with him far better (at least they weren't arguing about Sakura). It took about two weeks and a half to finally break down.

I may have taken a peak in while I was on break. Maybe. They were fishing with sticks and baskets (oh, I hated that one. The rocks were slippery and I had to do the case barefoot. Kakashi mocked me for the entire time!) and their sensei was sitting off to the side reading. As he usually did with cases such as these. I didn't want to disturb them but - well, I couldn't help looking on. Sasuke was so focused! And Naruto was actually not acting up too much.

And - ah - the ever lovely Sakura. She was there, her headband was bright red and her hair was a soft pink - she had bright green eyes too. She was adorable…. When she wasn't scowling at Naruto. I withheld a sigh and was about to leave when -

"What do you think?" Kakashi said right in my ear. I jumped, covered my mouth for the squeak that nearly came out and spun around to glare at him.

"Stop that." I hissed at him. He eye-smiled at me. He was watching me expectantly, waiting for my opinion. Odd. I fought off the blush I could feel growing in my face and turned to look at them again. "I think you've your hands full."

"Maa - it's fine." He looked over at them.

"And how's the dream working?" I nodded over to them. He sighed and gave a vague shrug.

"Naruto-kun only wants impressive missions. I think he wants to be Hokage tomorrow."

"Probably. And Sasuke?"

"He prefers to work alone. He's starting to warm up to the idea."

"Well - he's been alone for so long it's not an easy transition." I murmured.

"He's had you." Kakashi said as if that at all had any effect.

"I'm not a peer. He's barely let Naruto in as it is. But I think… he will one day." I turned back to him. He was close. Very close. His gaze darted down to the book in his hands and back up to me. He cleared his throat.

"Ah - you- you're…" He stuttered; he was turning bright red. He almost looked like he was sweating.

"Kakashi, are you okay?" I asked, bringing a hand up to check his temperature. He jerked away, but didn't stop me from checking what little of his forehead I could. It was more like he didn't know what I was doing. He was rather warm but probably not sick. He was fine moments ago.

"...I'm fine…" He didn't sound fine. In fact he turned a brighter red. "You - said my name."

"Would you prefer I didn't?" I asked lightly.

"Oh! No - that's not… I mean-" He was stuttering! Again! I'd never seen him so frazzled. He pulled himself together a half second later - even straightened up. "You just haven't called me by name since -"

"Ah." I hadn't noticed. He did though. I stepped away - I really shouldn't be so close. "I- I have to get back. Good luck, ah? Don't give Naruto too much leeway."

He gave me one more eye smile. I probably should have left but I had a bit more time. It wouldn't hurt.

Sasuke could see Tami and Kakashi in the distance - talking. Just talking. Their sensei had gotten flustered a moment ago. Horribly flustered.

"Hey - Stupid. Look." He nodded to the pair.

"Huh? Hey! What'd I say about -" Naruto started to go off until Sasuke turned his head to see Kakashi and Tami talking.

"They're standing pretty close." Sakura said quietly. At least one of the two he was teamed up with knew how to be quiet.

"Yeah. They are." Naruto scowled. The idiot still thought Tami and Iruka had a chance. Sasuke doubted she wanted anyone but….

Naruto's idea wasn't entirely dumb. Tami couldn't easily leave if she had a family here for her. Sasuke was already sure she had some memories - probably more than she ever admitted to. She had to have. She was like him in a way. It was the memories that drove her. She had to have them - she always helped them. Always. Why would she help them unless she knew what it was like to be alone? What it was like to have a family before it?

It looked like Sasuke and Naruto weren't the only ones who cared about her. From the looks of things, their lazy "sensei" did too.

And, from the way Tami just was checking Kakashi's temperature and fawning over him - well. Maybe Naruto's idea wasn't so stupid after all. Sasuke would have to think about it. Figure out the right angle to go from. See what Tami really thought. Sasuke knew she wouldn't tell them. But if the situation presented itself he could figure it out.

Tami left soon after. Sensei watched her go.

"Aww, man - I didn't want Tami-chan to see us like this." Naruto complained. Sasuke huffed. What did it matter? She had to have gone through the same missions.

"Is she nice?" Sakura asked him. Sasuke didn't answer, but Naruto did.
"She's great! You can meet her later, Sakura-chan!" He said cheerfully. Sakura blushed and turned to Sasuke meekly.

"Sasuke-kun - could you introduce me to her?" She asked. He turned his face away.

Over his dead body would he ever. It would only give Sakura the idea that she could come into his life whenever she wanted. She was just like the other empty-headed girls at school. She was smart but all she wanted was his attention because he was skilled. She barely ever did anything besides call his name. She thought she liked him but she had no idea what love was. What it really meant to care for someone else. All she ever did was complain about her parents.

"It's okay Sakura-chan! I can introduce you!" Naruto said, ruining Sasuke's plans. Sasuke glared at him but went back to fishing. Sakura grinned at him.

"That's great!" She said, shooting a glance at Sasuke.

It wasn't until another week when Sasuke saw the possibility to figure it out. An ex-Anbu agent had shown up named Sukea who said they could help them figure out what Kakashi looked like under that mask. Sasuke wasn't that interested in finding out. Not really. Not at all. Of course he didn't care what he looked like. He was way more advanced than to care if his teacher had buck teeth… or a massive overbite…. Or fish-lips…..

The only thing I loathed more than my father was reporters. They dug into things without a care and let loose information like the world was owed it. No care at all. All I wanted was a good relaxing night with Naruto and Sasuke and I had to deal with Sukea. Something about him was off and I didn't like it.

I came home, hearing Naruto scrounging around in my room.

"I know it's here somewhere, 'ttebayo! Your camera stinks, Sukea-kun. This one is great!" I could hear him.

"I don't think that's necessary. Mine is top of the line." an unknown voice said.

"I doubt her camera is better, Naruto-kun." a female voice said.

"What is going on?" I snapped.

Suddenly there was silence. I wish I came home to that silence.

"Tami-chan!" Naruto shouted, "Where's your camera, we need it!"

Out of my room piled team 7 - no Kakashi in sight but a different strange looking man. He was sort of frumpy from the look of his clothes. He wore a long green jacket, and a pale grey purple scarf. There was something vaguely familiar about him, but I couldn't quite put my finger on it. His eyes were light grey and his hair was near flat on his head and a dull lifeless brown. He had purple markers under his eyes and - was that purple eyeshadow?

He had a strong chin and his face was rather handsome, especially with the beauty mark of his. However cute he was, I wasn't a fan of his after learning who he was.

"Why do you need it?" I asked, crossing my arms over my chest. Naruto laughed, little Sakura stepped out and Sasuke stepped up to me.

"We need it for our mission." He said. Sukea grimaced and tried not to meet my eye.

"Your mission without your Sensei?" I asked, evaluating the man before me.

"Yeah! We're gonna take a picture of Kakashi-sensei's face without his mask." Naruto said cheerfully. "Sukea-kun is a reporter. If we get a photo we'll get ramen with dumplings!"

I must have looked angry because Sukea jerked back and had a horrified look on his face.

"I think Sukea and I need to have a chat before I let you use my camera. Don't you?" I said as sweetly as I could.

"Yeah! Great idea! Then we can get the camera!" Naruto cheered. I smiled politely and led the man to the kitchen. I could hear team 7 chattering away in the living room. The second he was in the kitchen fully I turned on him with a scowl.
"What do you think you're doing?!" I hissed. He leaned away, throwing up his hands in a weak defense.

"I'm here helping Kakashi-kun with his students! That's all. I used to work beside him in the Anbu." He said weakly. Something was off about his reactions - his behavior.

"And he'll verify that?" I questioned, stepping forward. I drew a kunai, making sure he saw it. I was sure any reporter here would make up any story to get what they wanted. I didn't know why the fuss over seeing his face.

"Y-yes, of course. I'll send him over. When this is all over. It's fine." He said, stuttering. Any time I got close he'd back away and turn his face.

"I don't think I've made myself quite clear. If it turns out he has no idea what I'm talking about - and his picture is plastered on any newspaper. I don't care if it's even talked about on a children's radio program. I will dig through your past and release every little lie you've ever said, every little sordid detail you've ever done, and every little thing you've even had the misfortune of thinking. Do you understand?" I growled. He was turning red - from embarrassment? No - his expression said something else. I glowered at him.

"Crystal clear, Tami-chan. I promise - we're working together." He said weakly, he then studied me for a moment as I pulled away. "You're not curious? You were partners after all."

"His secrets are his own. If he chooses to share them - that's his choice. A man has a right to his secrets. For all I know he has a reason to hide his face. I'd rather not take that away from him." I said, moving away.

Sukea breathed in to talk again but dissolved into a coughing fit. I sighed, got out some of my extra pineapple juice, and poured it into a cup. If it turned out this man was lying, I would have rather him in pain. But if he was helping Kakashi…? I'd feel bad if he was coughing and I did nothing. Well. We'd have to see later.

"Drink this. It'll help." I murmured. He took it with a polite thank you.

"So - the camera? Is it compact or…?" He asked. I sighed and looked away. Something was off about this guy. I'd give him the benefit of the doubt until Kakashi came and cleared it up.

"You're not using it. It won't help you if you're here to help Kakashi and if you're not… you'll get nothing from me either way." I said firmly. Sukea studied me quietly.

"I see." He said softly. "You must really care about him."

My eyebrows hitched and I snatched back the cup in his hand. "You'll get no story from me. Go on. Out the door with you."

Even if he was vaguely cute the man had to go. I ushered him out, waving my hands at him. I needed a reporter around like a hole in the head.

"Hey! Tami-chan, we can use the camera right?" Naruto asked.

"Nope. I'm not helping you ruin your sensei's career. Now out."

The look Sasuke sent me... I didn't know what was running through that head of his but he walked right out with no problem at all.

"It was nice to meet you, Tami-chan." Sakura told me as they left. Naruto scowled and marched himself out.

Sure enough about an hour and a half later Kakashi was knocking on my window. I opened it for him and he clambered in. He held up his hand in greeting.

"Yo." He said.

"I heard you had a stalker today." I said. He was sitting on my counter like he owned it. I would have chased him off but I found that Kakashi was like a stubborn house cat when he wanted to be. He'd stay where he wished, as he wished it. Me trying to change that was like trying to change riverbeds by hand. Near impossible.

He sighed deeply, his shoulders drooping.

"Maa, maa." He whined, "Those cute little students of mine keep wanting to see behind my mask."

I chuckled. "Did they?"

An eye smile was my only reply. They must not have. Good.

"And Sukea?" I questioned.

"We worked together in the Anbu. He was an old friend." He said.

"A friend? One who's not Guy?" I questioned.

"You're so mean to me Tami-chan." He whined again. I grinned at him.
"You need it, you know it." I teased.

"Maa" He sighed again.

"So you two were working together, ah?" I asked. I leaned against the counter across from him. He slouched back.

"We were. He said you threatened him?" He asked, a note of humor in his voice. I rolled my eyes and shrugged.
"Just because we're no longer partners doesn't mean I don't have your back." I said. His eye crinkled at me. "By-the-by - if you see that friend of yours again, let him know to lay off the eye-shadow. For a handsome man, it sure does wash him out."

I thought that Kakashi would just tease me back about his friend - that's what I thought he'd do. I would poke fun of his friend, he'd poke fun of me - everything would be grand. Instead I swear he turned red. I swear it. He turned his head so fast and coughed that I didn't quite know what to do.

"Are you okay?" I asked.

"F-fine." He stuttered. I laughed nervously - he could have just not wanted to hear about his friend that way. I turned my head, pretended I didn't say a thing.

"Anyway - I've got to get some things done. You're welcome to stay if you'd like." I offered. He didn't move for a moment. I was headed into the living room when he finally jumped down and followed me. He found a comfy spot on the couch and started reading his book. He was glancing at me to his book back and forth.

I started pulling out the scrolls I had from Jiraiya.

I - I had to. I had to start going through these and making sense of them. I glanced over at Kakashi - I'd have to. There was no way there was a future here for me. Maybe I didn't have a future at home either, if that book had anything to say about me. But at least it was home. At the very least I could figure out this puzzle and then - and then figure it out from there. Hopefully - hopefully by then I wouldn't be destroyed from my decision.

Sasuke, Naruto and Sakura were cooling down at the Ramen stand. Sasuke would never share that he was starting to like it. He couldn't. Wouldn't, even.
"We tried so hard." Sakura whined.

"I still kinda wanna see, though." Naruto muttered.

Sasuke sat there, staring into his bowl thoughtfully. While Sakura and Naruto bickered about the camera, he had paid attention to Tami's argument in the kitchen. From the sound of it - Tami did care for their Sensei at some level. It almost reminded him of when she protected Naruto from some of the other villagers. It didn't happen often, but she could get cold. She'd get protective like a wolf protecting her cubs. It was scary at times. Maybe his plan could work, but he might need help. Or, at least, make sure someone didn't get in his way.

"Naruto - maybe your plan wasn't the worst after all." Sasuke said calmly.

"Of course it wasn't." Naruto said brightly, but then leaned in, "What plan was that?"

"She can't leave if she has a family." Sasuke smirked. He glanced from Naruto to Sakura.

"Yeah! Iruka-sensei and Tami-chan! Round two!" Naruto shouted excitedly. Sakura made a face.
"Iruka-sensei? Is she interested in him?" She asked dryly.

"I was thinking maybe Kakashi and Tami." Sasuke offered.
"No way! Kakashi-sensei is lazy! An' reads porn! Tami-chan deserves somebody better." Naruto said sternly.

"I bet you if they get together she'll tell us what she looks like." Sasuke tempted them. He knew very well Tami wouldn't but Naruto wouldn't realize that. He needed them on his side on this. If they weren't - well, his plan would fall through. Naruto's loudmouth alone would ensure that.

Naruto gasped and Sakura giggled.

"That's a great idea, Sasuke-kun!" Sakura said. Sasuke smirked.

"Yeah! Tami-chan would tell me anything!" Naruto exclaimed. He then crossed his arms and turned in his chair. "How would we do this, though?"

They'd figure something out. Although Naruto had initially didn't care for the idea, he had the most ideas. Sasuke eventually tuned it out. When he saw an opening, he would go for it. Until then? He'd ignore Naruto and Sakura. If he had to work with people he wished it was a better team, a more gifted team.

Upon Naruto's insistence I opened my home up for one more Taco Tuesday. The first free Tuesday we had, I was getting ready. I figured I'd give them all a choice. Make it early - tacos and fajitas. Again - probably not as good as the authentic but I did my best. I was in the middle of slicing the vegetables when I heard a knock at my window. I glanced up - What?!

Kakashi was there at the window with a bag of groceries. I stared at him in shock. It was 3:25. We weren't scheduled until 4:30 - I wasn't expecting him until 5:45! My mouth dropped open. Instead of waiting for me to open the window he did so himself and crawled in.

"Afternoon." He called. My eyebrows raised at him. "What?"

He was looking at me so innocently.

"You've never been early." I said. He crawled in and set the things down.

"I was nearby." He said easy.

"With groceries." I replied flatly.

"Well, there was this sweet old lady who needed help." He answered lazily.

"And you took her food?" I asked him humorously.

"She gave me a bag as thanks." He sniffed indignantly. He held the pose for a moment before giving me an eye smile. I laughed. He looked over the counters, seeing what I had out.

"What's all this?" He asked, picking up my spices and investigating them.

"Mine." I teased as I went back to chopping the vegetables. He hummed.

"As in not mine?" He asked lightly.

"As in, you'll find out soon enough." I said with a grin.

"I've never seen these spices together before." He murmured, picking them up and smelling them. He peaked over to me and evaluated what I was doing.

"Want some help?" He asked.

"If you'd like to. Have at it, Gordon Ramsay." I told him. I nodded to the other vegetables across from me. He quirked an eyebrow and pulled out a cutting board and knife. He expertly spun the knife in hand, staring at me as if in challenge.

"Oh you think you're so impressive." I said lightly.

With the skilled hand only a master could do - he sliced each vegetable up. He only looked back at me as if to say of course I am. I saw his work and scoffed. Evenly diced. Each one. It was perfection. I sighed loudly which he sent me an eye-smile for.

"Perfect, except I needed some sliced not diced." I sniffed. I peeked at him from one eye. His expression fell and I couldn't help but laugh.

He had extra - thankfully. We just would have a lot of vegetables. Not bad, considering. It might mean Naruto might actually eat some more veggies instead of just meat. Maybe. I was working on cooking everything while he watched behind me. The tortilla shells were already well taken care of.

"Here - it's more like -" He started. He reached out for the handle of the pan but stopped himself.

"Oh? Well then Master-Chef. Go on." I turned the handle to him and he easily stepped in. He was far better at me again. I sighed watching him work. "Again, if you could just be bad at something."

I saw his eye crinkle but he didn't say anything. He cleared his throat and looked over at me seriously.

He was trying to say something, trying to make his mouth work but he couldn't quite get it out. That was when I heard my front door open and Naruto charging in.

"Come on Sakura-chan! Taco's are the best!" He called, leading his team in.

"Naruto-kun you can't just barge in." Sakura told him.

"He can if he has permission." I called.

"They have permission?" Kakashi asked lightly.

"And keys." I said.

"I don't have a key." He grumbled. I raised an eyebrow and shot a look at the window.

"When have you needed a key? Or permission?" I scoffed. I playfully nudged his shoulder. "Besides, I'm rather sure having either would diminish the appeal of popping in whenever you want to."

Kakashi was about to say something when Naruto stepped in. I could see both Sakura and Sasuke right behind him. Naruto had a curious look in his eye - a wide grin too.
"Sensei is here?" Sakura muttered to herself in surprise. She wasn't the only one surprised. Both boys glanced at each other - mischief written in their gaze.

Hm.

"I guess your sensei got lost on the path to life and ended up at my window sill." I sighed, rolling my eyes. Kakashi glanced at me - a small crinkle around his eye. I could see the trio share a look. Ah. They were up to something. Probably another scheme to see their Sensei's face.

"Go on, lovelies - find a seat. We'll be done soon enough." I told them. Naruto cheered loudly while Sasuke chided him.

The night together was nice. It was the first time my home felt full since I arrived. Sakura seemed rather cute - but very vicious once crossed. The team dynamic was something I kind of pitied Kakashi for. He definitely had his hands full. I had mine full with just Naruto and Sasuke. Him? He had to train them, keep them alive and ensure they were each prepared to be whomever they would turn into. But - looking at him? He didn't seem to mind too much. He was tired of Naruto's shenanigans mostly. However the team - they were definitely up to something. They kept glancing at each other when Kakashi and I interacted. And they certainly were attentive as Kakashi tried to eat his meal. He was able to thwart them each turn. I tried not to laugh at them. Tried. But watching a full grown man eat a fajita in one bite while a trio of children stared at his face? Priceless. I hid my smiles behind my mug so as to not encourage them.

The verdict? They liked it overall. Even Kakashi seemed to (but he did have a hand in making them). Sakura, though, didn't seem to like it too much. It was just different than her usual. When she said that Sasuke scowled at her. I could see the bashful look in her eye as she tried to correct her mistake.

"No - no, it's fine. I more than understand, luv. Don't worry about it." I waved her off. It took me forever to understand the appeal of plain rice. I still didn't, but it was growing on me slowly. Both Sasuke and Kakashi were reevaluating me by just their gaze alone. I hid myself behind my mug once more.

"Thank you Tami-chan." She said cheerfully. I smiled at her.

From then on they started to slowly disperse. Naruto grinned at Kakashi and I.

"I'll see you both later! 'Ttebayo!" He called and raced out the door. Sasuke and Sakura sighed and followed after him at the end of the night.

"They're up to something." Kakashi stated.

"Mm. They are indeed." I murmured. I got up and started to pick up the plates. He moved to help but I waved him off.

"It's fine. You don't need to worry, ah? You cooked - I'll clean." I said.

He didn't stay much long after. He tried to say something again before leaving. However, it didn't seem to work. He stuttered again and couldn't get out the words. So instead he gave me an eye-smile and left the same way he came. He seemed a little sad for some reason. Why? I couldn't say. If it was something serious he'd find a way to bring it up sometime. Otherwise? Otherwise it'd be one of his many secrets that remained his own.

Soon enough I was able to meet Kurenai's group. They were adorable. She had gotten the little Hyuga girl, Hinata, a Aburume boy and an Inuzuka with his pup. Hinata was my clear favorite of her bunch. The little girl still stuttered and spoke so very softly. Oh! I was thrilled she was on Kurenai's team. It was the perfect match up. Shino was a quiet sort - like I figured all Aburame were. He was a little bit more gruff than the one I was partnered with for a short time. Kiba was vocal, proud. He was interesting to watch - to talk to. Kurenai would have to keep an eye on him - he'd probably make a mistake with that pride of his. Who wouldn't? But I knew they were in good hands. Their group dynamic was more peaceful than Kakashi's - more mellow. I kind of wished that Kakashi had gotten a group like this - a group more at peace and calm.

I soon had to go as she had other responsibilities now - what with her first genin team and all. I bet she wanted to do her country proud. So when I could I bowed out and found something to keep my mind occupied. I went about my new regiment. Soon enough I should probably see if Guy would let me meet his team yet. I hoped so.

I didn't see Kakashi again for another week. It wasn't like I was trying to find him when I did. He was sitting among other men in the village at a picnic table talking about the finer points of Icha Icha. Ebisu was there, and some others I didn't quite know. I came over, trying to figure out the fuss. I was curious, to be honest.

"Icha Icha is completely valid. The bonds between men and women are so stirring! Beautiful! I've never seen the like." Ebisu said. My eyebrows raised. All that for a smut-book?

"Especially since Jiraiya was able to seduce Tsunade. It just proves that the series is genuine!" Another man said in agreement. I could see Kakashi about to say something when he caught my eye and froze. As soon as he did, the others did as well.

Well.

I stepped in and looked from face to face.
"Forgive the intrusion, but I don't think I'll ever understand the appeal." I said, looking from face to face. Kakashi looked embarrassed, turning his head away. Ebisu stuttered and turned his head away too. I raised my eyebrows. "Gentlemen - I've no problem with your reading material. I just don't understand the appeal."

"It's not really… I mean - women don't." One of the men muttered awkwardly. I rolled my eyes.

"Jiraiya is a published author. He's among the highest paid writers of his time. The fact that you gentlemen think women aren't reading them is fascinating." I said, leaning against a nearby pillar. They flushed.

"Did you?" Ebisu asked.

"I read a page. Not my cup of tea." I said lightly. They shared a glance. "Besides - I prefer other romance authors."

"Like what?" Kakashi asked from the back. I shrugged.

"Yes. Tell us what's better." One of them said.

"My long standing favorite is Pride and Prejudice. No smut - so I doubt you'd be interested." I remarked. Ebisu and some of the others took offense. Well

"If you think that's the only reason we read the Great Jiraiya's work you're wrong! How dare you." Ebisu sniffed, while the others nodded in agreement. Kakashi instead looked away trying to seem uninterested. "What's so great about Pride and Prejudice anyways?"

"It's a great story. Mr Darcy is a man near every girl wants. Shows the struggles of a pair who meet with very wrong impressions of the other." I said. That got Kakashi's attention right then.

"Well?" One of them asked, trying to get me to continue. I sighed.

"Mr. Darcy is the male protagonist. He's an accomplished man who's in a high rank. He meets the Bennet's who are a lower class and have far less influence at a dance. They are rather embarrassing; other than the eldest daughters, Jane and Elizabeth who is the female protagonist. Through a series of events Mr. Darcy falls for a woman who he inadvertently pushes away through his own actions."

"He sounds horrible." Kakashi said dryly. I went to defend Mr. Darcy when another man spoke up.

"No, he does - what's so great about him? He sounds stupid."

"No - he's proud. When he finally confesses his love, Elizabeth tells him exactly why she could never love him. The rest of the book shows him doing his best to both explain himself and do the right thing. In every instance." I said firmly.

"None of the male protagonists in Icha Icha would ever make such a foolish mistake!" Ebisu said.

"Yeah. Did this author ever even marry?" One said.

"She did not." I admitted.

"There you have it. Jiraiya at least won his love." Ebisu said with pride. I scowled at him and finally told them the truth Jiraiya failed to.
"He did. With my help." I said. Each of them froze in their spot and stared at me in shock.

"You helped him?" One asked.

"Taught him to waltz too." I said with a grin.

"So what. He's still the better author." Another man said. I did my best not to sigh. I pinched the bridge of my nose and waved my hand.
"Believe as you will." I sighed and left. I was heading home for the night - to go through my scrolls when out of the corner of my eye I could see Kakashi walking in step with me.

"How'd you do it?" He asked, glancing at me from the corner of his eye.

"Do what?"

"How did he win Tsunade."

"I've no idea. I gave him some tips - told him to not be so brazen. He was always so bold. Far too bold. I spoke with her and… the next thing I knew he was dancing around saying that she agreed to a date." I said. Kakashi hummed. I wondered why he was so curious. Maybe - maybe that future bride of his already stepped in on the scene. Maybe I should focus more energy on my scrolls than training. Maybe. Probably.

"Mr. Darcy does sound stupid." He suddenly said. I glanced over at him.

"Oh, you hush. Mr. Darcy is a long-standing fan favorite. He's horrible at being social but he's a good sort." I said firmly.

"You already admitted to being attracted to the wrong kind of men." He said dryly, clearly unimpressed with me. Ah - if he only knew. I scoffed and looked away. I didn't have the energy to argue with him. It was hard to argue against oneself anyways.

"Maybe you're right." I said under my breath; I had a history. But him? Knowing what I knew about Kakashi - I didn't count him among those ranks. He was... he was very different.

He didn't say anything more but walked me home. I wondered what was bouncing around that head of his. If I could do one thing it would be finding out that. Him? He was a mystery. Again - I could read him but chose not to. If he was ever ready - he'd tell me what was bouncing in that head of his. He would.

AN:/ Goodness - this chapter was so pairing focused. I try not to over do it, but we're at that part of the story where it's hard not to. D: I like having Tami's relationships be more well rounded. Like, she has to have more than just a love for Kakashi, you know? And I miss Guy - Guy is awesome. No matter how much love he gets I feel like it's not enough D: Anyways - here we are. This one was a hard chapter to write. I don't know why tbh. I hope this one is good - that it flows well.
Thank you guys for your amazing reviews last chapter! I love you guys so much! ;_; I think I was able to respond to all of you, or nearly.