The big day had unfortunately arrived. From the moment Naruto woke up something felt odd. He expected to feel nauseous, but what he didn't expect was this strange pressure emanating from seemingly every cell in his body. It almost felt like he was being forcefully pulled by some strange force. He wasn't sure what was causing this, it was rather bizarre. Pushing the feeling aside he got ready, which entailed wearing clothes he never would have worn aside from today, including one very special memento. Then made his way to school earlier than he normally would so he could allot himself enough time to have a breakdown, and mentally prepare his psyche.
Yesterday during PE principal Hiruzen called him to his office requesting that he make a speech before playing what he composed. Granted he was assured his speech didn't have to be long, it was still weighing quite heavily on him.
When he finally arrived at school he was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by Shikamaru who was not only at school early, but awake for a change. Last night Sasuke had offered to come in early to help him with anything he might need also, but Naruto didn't want him having to explain to his group if they noticed. Somehow he had managed to sneak away every lunch without them catching on to where he was going, and Naruto wanted to keep it that way for Sasukes sake.
Looking at the clearly sleepy brunette Naruto smirks "never thought I'd see the day Shika."
"Don't get used to it or anything. Also who knew you could clean up so nicely?" Chuckled the lazy teen, shamelessly checking out Narutos outfit before letting out a light whistle.
"Tch, whatever." Naruto teases, rolling his eyes at his friend's reaction.
Switching to a more serious tone Shikamaru asks "You ready to head in?"
Taking a deep breath Naruto nods. "As ready as I'll ever be I guess."
The two teens make their way to the music auditorium. The usual dark drag auditorium was well lit today, there was a huge projector screen pulled down against the normally playing stage backdrop. A mic stand was set up, the piano had been rolled from its usual far right position so that it was not located closer to centre stage.
Naruto pulls a flash drive out of his pocket earning him a curious look from his lazy friend. "What's that for?"
Looking down at his hand as he begins to twirl the drive between his fingers before he finally answers "It's my speech, or the equivalent to it anyways."
Shikamaru knits his brows together. "Speech?" he was thoroughly confused, this was the first he was hearing of a speech.
"Principal Hiruzen made another request of me yesterday." Explained Naruto, accompanied by a rather lazy shrug.
Hearing this, Shikamaru was understandably irritated. "He did what?" He couldn't believe the principal could ask more of the blond.
'Wasn't performing enough?' he thought.
"Just calm down Shika." Naruto tried to pacify his friend, the last thing he wanted the lazy teen to do was waste more energy on worrying about him.
"How can you be so calm about this?" he questioned. Shikamaru knew how difficult playing was going to be, now he's expected to speak about an incredibly difficult subject in front of a school full of assholes. He just couldn't understand Narutos placid demeanour over the situation, let alone why he'd agree to a speech of all things.
Naruto shrugs his shoulders. "I agreed, it is what it is." He wished he could tell his friend he wasn't calm, but what good would that do? He's the one who stupidly agreed because he can say no to the sad old man.
Shikamaru shakes his head and lets out a heavy sigh. "I'm starting to think you want to be punished."
"You know I can't say no to him, not after everything." Naruto admits. Hiruzen had lost his wife, his daughter and his grandson. If it weren't for Konohamaru being paired with Naruto, that tragedy wouldn't have happened. Hiruzen never blamed Naruto, but that did nothing to diminish his immense guilt that dwelled within him. So yes, if this was requested of him, he would do it.
He sends a sad smile to his blond friend. "You're a good person Naruto, you shouldn't feel guilty for living."
Naruto had one thought, 'shouldn't I though?'
This was not a conversation Naruto wanted to have now or ever. He cared deeply for Shikamaru but he doesn't understand the feeling. Not wanting to take his anxiety and frustrations out on his lazy friend he opts to change the subject, "I should really give this drive to the tech guy."
It didn't take a genius like him to see what Naruto was doing. He knew that this wasn't the time to push the topic so he just accepted it and watched the blond walk away. "What a drag."
Naruto sat backstage as the auditorium began to fill. He brushed off Principal Hiruzen when he inquired about his speech, it was all starting to feel suffocating. He could hear the rumbling of rowdy teenagers filling the rows as he quietly sat there lost in his own thoughts.
Naruto hadn't been informed that this assembly was going to be open to the public. Not only were family members of victims that didn't go to Konoha High here, but some reporters were there as well. He wasn't prepared to be bombarded with intrusive questions again.
He was trying his best to stay calm but even his normally tanned face had turned a sickly white, his palms were extremely clammy and he felt his empty stomach was churning. He was thankful he didn't eat anything, he knew his meal would have evacuated his stomach by now if he had.
Another thing that bothered him was every so often he kept getting that pulling sensation and it was incredibly strong now. It almost felt like every single one of his cells were being magnetised all at once.
One second Naruto was staring at his lap the next he's in his mind. 'What the?'
"Naruto, are you okay?" came a very concerned voice, echoing through his mind.
"Uh, yeah I guess, why did you pull me in though?" Naruto was thoroughly confused. Kurama has only done this twice before, and neither were because of pleasant circumstances.
Kurama growls slightly, clearly on edge. "Listen to me, this is important. You feel that, don't you?"
Naruto looks up at his companion who seems to be starting up and off somewhere. "That pulling sensation?"
Breaking line of sight, Kurama looks down at the teen, "yes, it appears someones trying to find me."
"What does that mean?" Naruto demanded, distress evident in his voice. He didn't know who would be looking for Kurama. As far as he knew Minato's goons were the only ones privy to the 'Kyuubis' presence. Even with that, Naruto and Kurama refused to let the group know that he could speak freely with it. Even, they aren't ignorant enough to try something in public, they wouldn't want to wreck their perfect public personas.
"All I know is something is trying to feel for my energy. Because I'm locked into my jinchūriki it appears they can't actually draw my energy out, but they sure are going through great lengths to try and find me." explains the giant perturbed fox.
Kurama wasn't sure who or what could do this. He knew he couldn't be removed from Naruto, even without completing their bond but that didn't mean Naruto was safe. Without being fully bonded, Naruto can die just as easily as any other human and Kurama didn't have an answer for what would happen should that come to be.
Naruto contorted his face anxiously, the look on the foxes face was enough to show how serious this situation could potentially be. "Do you think we're in danger?"
The fox hung his proud head down low, uttering in nothing short of a whisper, "honestly, I don't know." It was the truth, but it didn't make Kurama hate it any less.
"Well that's comforting." Muttered the on edge teen. Of all days for something like this to happen it had to be today.
"I'd rather tell you the truth than sugar coat it." Mumbles the stoic fox, wishing there were more answers to give, but there simply wasn't. He would rather Naruto know the possibility of being in danger rather than risk anything.
Naruto heaves a sigh while running his hands through his blond locks. "I know, it's just, it doesn't do anything to ease my nerves, y'know?"
The fox softens its face, giving the teen a sympathetic look. "I know, just be careful and keep your eyes open alright?"
He nods his head at his companions' requests. Being on high alert was already something his life made him accustomed to. "That I can do."
Kurama lays down face to face with Naruto, clearly preparing to slumber again. "Alright, you should take your leave, I'm not sure how long I've kept you here."
Looking into Kurama's giant glistening crimson eye, Naruto rubs the back of his head chuckling anxiously, "yeah I guess you're right, I don't really need to draw more attention to myself now do I?"
Earning himself a snort and grin from the usual phlegmatic fox "definitely not. Remember to be on alert. Good luck brat."
"Tch, bye ya lazy fox." He teases back, before opening his eyes bringing himself back to the now. Even when giving him unpleasant news, Kurama always managed to cheer him up.
"Naruto!" shouted a worried looking Hiruzen.
Naruto looked over at the principal and knitted his brows together. "Huh?"
Letting out a sigh of relief, Hiruzen explains, "I've called your name several times and you wouldn't respond."
Looking at the man sheepishly, Naruto says "sorry about that old man, what's up?"
The man's expression softened with a hint of sorrow etched in. "You're up."
"Fuck..." Naruto whispers just loud enough for himself to hear. It was now or never.
Sasuke was sitting in English, he really wished he'd convinced Naruto to let him wait backstage with him. He was growing increasingly worried about his blond crush. When he arrived this morning there were even news vans parked along the side of the school. He figured they were all going to try and shamelessly take this opportunity to grab the follow up interview they never got last year.
Sasuke would be lying if he said he didn't admire Naruto for going through with this performance in spite of everything. If he were in his shoes he's not sure he'd have the same strength.
Sasuke wasn't expecting to see the Nara in class, he figured with how close the two teens are that he would have stuck with Naruto this morning. He was really kicking himself for not just ignoring the blonds request and showing up early anyways. Surely he could have made up some excuse about helping set up for the assembly or something to deter his group from his budding friendship with Naruto.
He was starting to wonder what would happen if he just started hanging out with Naruto in the open. Neji and Hinata were the only two that he actually knew to begin with, so missing the rest of the group wouldn't be an issue. That's when he goes back to realise the swarm of girls and boys he'd have to deal with without the group backing him. He's also positive that everyone would blame and take it out on the blond which he didn't want either. One thing he knew was that Kiba sure could manipulate people. Once he got Neji behind him, Sasuke knew accomplishing the rest must have been easy for him.
Mulling things through in his mind he gets disturbed by the buzzing of the PA system signalling their class down to the music auditorium. The walk was echoed with hushed whispers of the tragedy and the shock of Naruto actually performing. It seemed that even though news got around and articles written of him performing today, no one really knew if it was true or just hearsay.
Upon entering the auditorium Sasuke noticed the normally dark quiet room was booming with loud rambunctious voices. The room was well lit now, showcasing just how big it actually was. Every lunch period when he'd watch Naruto, only the lights above the stage were on, illuminating only a few rows of seats. Now the whole auditorium was well lit and Sasuke could see just how massive the auditorium was. Kakashi's class makes their way up the stairs that divide two different sides of seating, each step leading to a new row of seats.
Being one of the final classes to file in, they took their seat up at the beach left of the auditorium. It was hard to differentiate who was talking about what with so many conversations all happening at once. On ground level both sides of the room were lined with different news reporters looking to catch the best scoop. The front rows appeared to be reserved for those who were affected by the tragedy personally.
As the last classes make their way in and take their seats A balding old man makes his way from backstage. He calls for silence to which all previous chatter comes to an immediate halt.
"Thank you everyone for taking your time to be here today. As you know tomorrow is the one year anniversary of the terrible tragedy that took so many from us. I am someone who was personally affected by that horrendous day. I lost my grandson Konohamaru Saratobi that day, and It is something that I will never be able to forget. Three other students from our school were affected by that accident along with countless others from ours and neighbouring communities. Today we are here to celebrate the lives of those we've lost. It is going to be a celebration of the lives they shared and the memories they made with us. After all of our guest speakers we have one final tribute composed by my grandson's band member, Naruto Uzumaki. You may all know him as the lone survivor of that tragic day, but he is so much more than that. I asked him if he would create something to commemorate those we've lost, and even though he hasn't been on a stage since then, he agreed, so please show him some kindness." Following his speech principal Hiruzen bows and the audience immediately burst out into simultaneous whispering, all seemingly revolving around Naruto.
Roughly two hours had passed, and there had been many speeches from torn family members, speaking of the good times they shared, and the happy memories that they will never forget, the futures they've vowed to live to the fullest for those they've lost and sympathise all around. Once again principal Hiruzen came out from backstage, this time to announce the final act. "Please everybody give a warm welcome to Naruto Uzumaki."
Even in a school that seemingly hated the teen, everyone respectfully applauded lightly from him. Sasuke's breath hitched when he layed eyes on the blond. Naruto walked out dressed in a blindingly white suit, it made both his tanned skin and golden hair glow even from where he sat. He couldn't make out his shoes but he was pretty sure they were white also. One bizarre thing stuck out about his outfit though, it appeared he wasn't wearing a tie, instead he was wearing an extremely long blue scarf. Immediately Sasuke knew who's scarf it was, and Narutos depiction of it being mop-like was definitely fitting. It's accuracy was almost enough to bring the stoic teen to chuckle.
Naruto walked on stage but didn't go towards the piano on mic stand, he appeared to be walking off towards the far right and appeared to be staring at a long white haired man. At least from what Sasuke could make out from his distanced seat.
After Principal Hiruzen informed Naruto that it was finally his turn he waited for the man to leave and call him on stage. "Please everybody give a warm welcome to Naruto Uzumaki."
'You can do this Naruto' he mentally tries to psych himself up.
He was surprised to hear people applauding for him as he was called 'I guess even assholes have manners.' He muses.
Naruto had his own microphone set up on the piano so he wouldn't have to stand looking directly at everyone as he speaks. When he walked out though, that pull kicked in and it was the strongest he's felt all day. Before he knew it he was walking off to the far right of the stage.
'What the?!' he mentally panics. He couldn't control his body it seemed. When he finally stopped his eyes locked with two very dark, very shocked looking eyes of an older man with long unruly white hair. His cheeks had two long red markings that ran from the centre of his lower eyelids all the way down to his jaw. Naruto had no idea who he was, but the man looked flabbergasted, his jaw hung slack, his eyes protruded, it was clear that the blond appearance shocked him.
What was seconds felt like hours staring at this man responsible for forcefully feeling for Kurama. Naruto was so entranced that he hadn't noticed the whispers or the barrage of camera flashes from each reporter trying to get the best photo. Finally, the man must have released his strange magnetic pull from Naruto because he could move freely again. Furrowing his brows at the man, Naruto slowly turns and makes his way to the large black piano, taking his seat.
'He's the one? Why did he seem so surprised?' Naruto wondered. He had so many questions rattling around in his brain, he wished he had time to speak with Kurama again, but being centre stage really didn't leave him that luxury right now.
Taking a few deep breaths to steady and centre himself, he finally begins to speak. "Hello everybody, I'm Naruto Uzumaki and I'm not really sure what to say if I'm being completely honest. This is the first time being back on stage since that day and I'm not going to lie, it terrifies me. Mr. Hiruzen asked me to perform and make a speech today. It was a hard decision to make, but I felt I owed it to not only my bandmates, but to everyone affected by that day. I couldn't really find words that would do justice to how all of you, or myself feel. What I want to say is I am deeply sorry for everyone who lost someone that day. If I could trade places with all of them I would in a heartbeat. Now as you can all see I'm not any good with speeches, that's why I composed a piece that sums up the thoughts and feelings I wish to convey to you, and to them. But first I put together something that I hope will allow you all to overlook my terrible speech."
As if on cue, the auditorium lights all dim and the white projector screen comes to life and the room is engulfed with music. What Narutos had done was compile a variety of sound clips, concert performances, pictures and videos of the victims. Over that year he had collected a variety of information from all the victims. He had known many of them from previous band competitions so he had many old clips saved of previous competitions, those he didn't known he was able to do a little research to find at least a picture or two of everyone who lost their life that day.
By the time Narutos presentation ended and the lights came back on, there were many wet faces among the audience. Before anyone had a chance to say or do anything, Naruto began to speak again. "I'm sorry I couldn't find the words each of you deserve, but I hope this song will help convey everything I wish I could say but can't."
Naruto began to elegantly dance his skillful finger across the keys of the piano and his deep powerful voice delivered heart wrenching exposition. It was a song of loss and longing, grief and betrayal, hate and love. It was a song made with perfect duality. It was not only light or dark, back or white, it was all of it and everything in between. Not a single person in the audience took their eyes off the teen, whether they hated him or not they watched and listened intently.
As he played the last note and the echo of the melody came to an end the audience burst into applause. For the moment he wasn't the freak, he wasn't the monster Kiba made the school see him as, he was just Naruto, and that might be the most painful part. Because five minutes from now everything will fade back, and the whispers and stares will all return, Naruto can never stay, not really.
Standing up Naruto picks up his microphone and brings it with him, everyone eyes him curiously, reporters cameras flashing signalling dozens of pictures being taken of him. He gets on his knees not worrying about his suit getting tarnished and bows his head so low his forehead is resting on the stage floor. Bringing the microphone he begins to whimper, "I'm so sorry, I would give my own life to give back all the ones you've lost. I can never make this right, but I will live the rest of my life with the thoughts of them forever. I will never forget."
Immediately after this the reporters start shouting out questions.
"Naruto, is it true? Was it your fault?"
"Do you think the families can forgive you?"
"Mr. Uzumaki over here!"
"Do you feel guilty?"
"Can you tell us what happened that day?"
"Naruto Uzumaki, where is your family today?"
"Do you think you could have saved them?"
The questions just kept flying. Naruto was feeling extremely disoriented, he needed to get out of there. He even forgot about the mysterious man that was apparently looking for Kurama. Without looking back or answering a single question Naruto booked it out of the auditorium, he didn't know where he was going, all he knew was he needed to get the fuck out of there.
Sasuke was extremely moved by the presentation Naruto put together. Even though he didn't know anyone aside from Naruto who was part of the shooting, he couldn't help but be touched by the blond's presentation. Last Night while they were facetiming he got out of bed to finish doing something, but he wouldn't tell Sasuke what it was he was doing.
'Was this what you were working on?" Sasuke found himself wondering.
Even though Sasuke had the privilege of watching Naruto rehearse everyday, seeing him up on stage in front of an audience made the song feel different somehow. Sasuke would never get sick of the blonds voice, he really hoped he'd get to hear him perform more in the future. He was just as mesmerised hearing Naruto play today as he was the first time.
When Naruto finishes and makes way up front, lowering himself to his knees, and bowing his head as low as he could Sasuke the stoic Uchihas mouth dropped, not for more than a second, but it still dropped. The quiver in Narutos voice as he apologised again was almost too much to bear. What was worse was the lack of sympathy the news reports seemed to show. They were recording and taking pictures throughout Narutos whole tribute, from the moment he walked on stage, to his current bow. It was sickening.
What happened next enraged the raven. Naruto had just been made to relive that horrific day again, and the news reporters were more interested in shouting out every inappropriate question they could at him. In the midst of all the chaos, Sasuke saw Naruto looking panicked and then he just booked it out of the auditorium. The sight made Sasukes stomach drop, he wanted to run after the blond but knew he couldn't.
The sight of Naruto taking off sent the whole auditorium into a sea of mismatched outbursts. Sasuke could hear the snarky remarks of his classmates that surrounded him, he wanted no part of it, he just wanted to get out of there and track down the dobe.
He was about to look for Kakashi when principal Hiruzen's voice sounded from the speakers. "Please, everyone, silence! I invited everyone here to honour those we lost, not turn my school into a circus! There will be no answering of any questions. If teachers could start bringing your students back to class starting from the back and working your way forward that would be greatly appreciated."
Feeling elated to be sitting near the back, Sasuke makes quick work of rising, waiting for Kakashi's class to make their exit. Even being so close to the back, it seems to take an eternity for his row to be excused. Finally on the move he didn't bother going back to class, instead he quickly made his way to his locker to grab his things before leaving. He had one thing on his mind, get a hold of the dobe.
Sasuke had no idea where he should begin to look, he thought maybe he could talk to Shikamaru, but even he seemed to be missing. He was hopeful that maybe the lazy teen had managed to tack down the blond, that way at least he wasn't alone. Unfortunately, just as he was beginning to find comfort in the thought the Nara being with Naruto he spotted him coming out of the library.
Sasuke quickly runs over to Shikamaru, not bothering to look apathetic. "Do you know where he is?"
Looking at the unusually perturbed raven, wide eyed Shikamaru shakes his head. "No, I was looking for him but he's not in any of his spots."
Sasuke was clearly becoming more irritable. "God, they were trying to eat him alive," he mutters.
"The guy never seems to get a break." Shikamaru admits. This whole situation was much too troublesome for the Nara, he hated how even when his blond friend does something selfless it gets turned around on him. He was happy seeing the raven showing concern though, he was starting to see more and more why Naruto hadn't shoved him away.
Taking a deep breath trying to rein in the emotions he's not used to showing anyone, Sasuke finally has an epiphany. "Have you texted him?"
The lazy teen facepalms, feeling slightly ashamed to call himself a genius. "No, I haven't."
Like Shikamaru, Sasuke feels like he's dishonoured not only himself but his family for not thinking of texting the blond right away. Not bothering to dwell on it any longer than needed Sasuke pulls his phone out, unlocking it and going to Narutos messages.
Sasuke:
Dobe, where are you? Nara and I are looking for you.
Like Sasuke Shikamaru does the same, pulling his phone out he quickly makes his way to Narutos messages.
Shikamaru:
Where are you? Are you ok?
Sasuke and I are looking for you.
Looking up at the Nara Sasuke asks, "Do you think he has his phone with him?"
Not bothering to look up, Shikamaru continued to stare at his phone as if it were going to summon the blond. "He usually doesn't go anywhere without it, I'd be surprised if he didn't."
Sasuke almost drops his phone when a notification comes through.
Dobe:
Oh shit sorry, I left school.
Shikamaru also got a message, he found it a bit troublesome that he got a message after the raven, but he decided to chalk it up to sending a message second to him.
Naruto:
Sorry Shika, I had to get out of there, I'm at that park, you know the one with the swings?
Shikamaru:
Stay put, we're on our way.
Shikamaru lets out a sigh of relief before looking up to Sasuke gesturing for him to follow. "Come, I know where he is."
Not missing a beat Sasuke nods and follows alongside Shikamaru.
Naruto ran and ran, before he knew it he was at an old abandoned park. If he was being honest it probably wasn't safe, but couldn't care less, he found the swings somewhat peaceful. He needed to think, or he needed to clear his mind, he wasn't exactly sure what he truly needed, he just knew he needed to get away from the school.
Gently swinging, dragging his feet against the sandy flooring of the swing set, he couldn't help but replay all those questions over in his mind. Hadn't he been through enough? He knew it was going to be hard, but why did all those reporters have to be there today? His mind swirled, surging with nothing but tormented memories.
Looking down he grasps a hold of the old worn blue scarf, 'What would it have been like if you guys were still here?'
He could never get rid of the scarf, it was all he had left. When he heard the old man was just going to toss it he couldn't allow it. The scarf will always hold a special place in his heart. He could remember all the times he begged the charmingly bratty teen to part with it, but was always met with glares and very colourful words. Now here he was holding on to the piece of fabric he despised so much.
The blond frowns slightly, the corners of his mouth just barely sagging. 'Pitiful aren't I?'
Though he would never wear the scarf aside from today, he knew he would never part with it. He didn't care if it was unhealthy to hold on to something so desperately, nothing would change his mind regarding his one and only memento. He would cherish it forever and always, quite literally.
Being submerged in sentimentalities, he chose to ignore the vibration that went off in his pocket. When a second then third came through he sighed heavily before retrieving his phone from the depths of his pocket. Seeing 'Teme' and 'Shikamaru' brought the corners of his lips up forming the hint of a smile.
Teme:
Dobe, where are you? Nara and I are looking for you.
Being the first text he received he responded to the raven first.
Naruto:
Oh shit sorry, I left school.
Naruto didn't want Sasuke to feel the need to worry for someone like him. He'd admit to himself that it did feel nice having the phlegmatic teen care though. Seeing that he was with Shika, Naruto figured that would be who the other messages were from.
Shikamaru:
Where are you? Are you ok?
Sasuke and I are looking for you.
He decided to let his lazy friend know where he was in hope of pacifying any jealousy he may be feeling towards Sasuke for receiving the first response.
Naruto:
Sorry Shika, I had to get out of there, I'm at that park, you know the one with the swings?
Shikamaru:
Stay put, we're on our way.
Naruto rolled his eyes at his phone in an attempt to prevent texting back "yes mom." As shitty as life was to him, he couldn't help but feel lucky to have the few close people he has. Who would have guessed the moody raven would have turned into one of those people and so quickly. Part of his being screamed at him to not let Sasuke get any closer, but that same part seemed to be losing the battle. Surprisingly Naruto was finding himself increasingly more comfortable with his decision to let his intrusive thoughts slide.
Roughly ten minutes later two dark haired teens came walking down from on top of the hill side by side, neither appeared to say a word to the other. Making no attempt to meet them, Naruto continued his gentle swinging. The lazy teen didn't appear surprised at all, but the stoic one showed clear signs of confusion. Naruto couldn't really blame him, who would expect a teen to come to and old decrepit park for some peace.
Upon reaching the blond , Shikamaru looks to Sasuke, then back at Naruto. "You wanna talk about it?"
Not bothering to bring his gaze from the line in the sand his feet are causing, he shakes his head. "Nah."
Simply nodding in response, Shikamaru walked off to a grassy area, laying down and closing his eyes. He knew Naruto didn't want to talk, but he wasn't about to leave him alone either. Sasuke refrained from asking all the questions that were threatening to spill from the tip of his tongue, opting to take a seat on the empty swing beside the blond. Both swung in comfortable silence. This is how the three teens spent their afternoon, they needed no words to convey their gesture towards the blond and for this Naruto felt truly grateful.
Having spent the entirety of their afternoon in the park, Naruto began to feel the effects of not eating breakfast. Looking over to the quiet raven he asks "You hungry?"
Meeting the blond's gaze he shrugs "I could eat."
Not bothering to get up he hollers to the sleeping teen. "Hey Shika, you hungry?"
Opening a single eye to peer in the direction of the startling voice he slowly begins to sit up. "I thought you'd never ask" he shouts back.
With that the three growing teens left the park. The two dark haired teens followed Naruto without question, stopping when they reached a rustic looking Korean barbeque restaurant that had the most amazing aroma wafting from it. Shikamaru tried to hide the shock on his face, but it didn't go unnoticed by either of the other two.
Sliding his hands in his pockets and looking up at the restaurants sign Naruto mumbles. "I didn't want to come here alone."
Sasuke looked over at the blond with an eyebrow raised as he wondered 'why doesn't he want to be here alone of all place?'
As if Naruto could read his mind he immediately explains "I used to bring them here after every performance, I haven't been here since."
Sasuke didn't need him to explain who or why, the sorrow in Narutos face and voice provided all the answers he needed. Without another word uttered they followed Naruto inside where they ordered and ate their food in silence. As hard as it was for him to see Naruto like this, he felt honoured to be able to share such a moment with him. Shikamaru was just proud his friend was finally choosing to make steps to continue moving forward.
After leaving the restaurant Shikamaru had to take his leave, he may be one of the laziest people around, but threats from his mother turned the unmotivated teen into a panicked over achieving mess.
That left only the two, and without realising it they walked towards the ravens place. "So?" Sasuke casually asks, feeling the need to say something.
Staring at the ground as they walk, not bothering to look up, Naruto responds. "Hm?"
"You ready for camping tomorrow?" He curiously asks. He found himself looking forward to it surprisingly and wanted to know if the blond was as well.
Naruto looks at Sasuke as they reach his gate, a smile spread across his face. "Yeah, it should be fun."
As Izumo opens the gate for him, Sasuke turns to ask, "Do you work tonight?" He knew Naruto always works, but it was already past the time he usually started.
Naruto shakes his head. "Nah, my next shift's Sunday." He had gotten a couple days off because of his English project on top of the anniversary's significance.
"Ah, that would explain why you aren't at work currently." Sasuke mutters.
Naruto snorts, "yeah." He found it amusing how the raven paid so much attention to his work schedule.
Sasuke smirks and shakes his head at the amused blond. "You know, we still need to get our food for tomorrow."
"Yeah, I figured we could pick it up tomorrow before we head to our camping spot." Naruto shrugs. "I have a little detour I need to make along the way anyways if you don't mind." With tomorrow being the actual date of the tragedy Naruto wanted to make sure he had a chance to pay his respects to his bandmates. He just hoped it wouldn't be too awkward for the raven.
Sasuke didn't know what Naruto was referring to but he shakes his head anyways. "I don't mind."
"Alright well I guess I'll let you head in then." Naruto nods his head gesturing towards Sasukes house. The two had just been standing in front of the ravens' opened gate and Naruto didn't want to inconvenience the guard.
Understanding Naruto feels he may be causing Izumo inconvenience, he smirks at the overly considerate teen. "Hn, alright dobe, I'll talk to you later."
Naruto smirks in response. "Tch, later teme." The two wave at each other slightly chuckling at the other's antics. Sasuke makes his way towards his house and Naruto proceeds to make his way down the road in the direction of his own house. Both teens oblivious to the idiotic grins imprinted on their faces.
On the outside Itachi was as tranquil as ever, but inside he was more anxious than he had been in a very long time. He was beginning to wonder why he'd agreed to let Kisame take him out. After the whole Deidra debacle he swore he was never going to put himself through the mess again. Somehow here he is though, he's not sure what truly gave him this push, but he's thinking that seeing Sasuke finally opening up to someone was making him want to finally try and give it another go.
"I can't believe I'm doing this." he mutters to himself as he gives himself one final once over in his mirror.
The restaurant Kisame planned for them to meet at didn't seem to have a dress code so Itachi took that as an invitation to dress casual. He wore a pair of tan boots, faded black skinny jeans, a light grey button up and a light brown leather jacket. He had his hair tied up into a man bun, he wore the gold chain he received from his father after graduation, a matching gold Rolex and a couple rings, one of which had his family's crest pressed into the centre. Overall he looked rather dashing.
Grabbing his wallet, phone and keys, he exits his room only to be greeted by a ridiculously elated looking Sasuke. He takes this moment to tease his adorable little brother instead of dwelling on his nerves. "Well someone certainly looks happy."
Noticing his brother Sasuke quickly lifts his indifferent mask. "Tch whatever."
Itachi chuckles at his response to being caught looking joyful. "You don't need to hide the fact you know?"
Sasuke rolls his eyes and grunts "I'm not hiding anything." Even though his brother is privy to his feelings, he still wanted to go on pretending like it wasn't the case.
Itachi shakes his head "Whatever you say little brother." He knew he could have pushed Sasuke further, but it seemed even teasing wasn't completely easing his own nerves.
Noticing something slightly off with Itachi, Sasuke asks, "You okay Itachi? You seem off."
Sighing, Itachi shakes his head. "I'm fine Sasuke, anyways I'm heading out, Lana left supper in the fridge for you if you haven't already eaten."
Sasuke had forgotten about Itachi's little date. Hearing his brother was about to leave it all clicks into place, the apprehension, the lack of finesse in his teasing. He was clearly nervous for his date. "You nervous?"
Itachi wasn't going to talk about this now, he was already using every fibre in his body to prevent himself from cancelling. So he did the only thing he could, he walked away bidding farewell to his little brother. "Goodbye Sasuke." Then proceeded to exit the house.
Sasuke stood there chuckling and shaking his head at the now shut front door. "Good luck Itachi."
It didn't take him long to arrive at the restaurant. When he arrived Kisame was outside waiting for him. The man was dressed in black shoes, grey slacks, a light blue button up and a long dark grey jacket.
Upon seeing Itachi he offers the man a warm smile. "Good evening Itachi, I hope you're well."
"Evening Kisame." Itachi nods back in response. He'd be lying if he said the man's strange tooth grin didn't make him feel oddly warm.
After exchanging greetings the two made their way inside. It was a cosy little Italian restaurant that didn't appear to be overly busy on a Friday night. Itachi was grateful for this fact, the last thing he wanted was to spend his evening being stared at because of his personal life.
After ordering the two began to get pleasantly comfortable with each other, it turned out it wasn't just the effects of the alcohol that made it easy to converse with each other. Itachi couldn't believe it, but he was actually having a good time with the lawyer.
"Wait no way, were you alright?" Kisame uttered in shock after hearing about the events that took place when the bid farewell from each other last week.
"Oh yeah, I actually ended up being saved by a high school student." Itachi chuckles at the thought of his brother's blond crush being the one all along.
"Wait a teenager?" The man asked dumbfounded, it was like he thought he couldn't possibly hear correctly.
"Yeah, not only that, turns out the kid actually knows my brother." He wasn't going to mention Naruto being his brother's crush, he figured Sasuke wouldn't be too appreciative of over sharing his personal life.
"No shit, what a small world." Kisame shook his head, clearly amused.
"You can imagine my surprise when Naruto showed up with my brother." Itachi chuckled at the memory of how irritated Sasuke was when both Naruto and him conversed, purposely ignoring his questions.
At the mention of the blond Kisame's face drops its grin instantly. "You don't mean Naruto Uzumaki do you?"
Knitting his eyebrows together, Itachi slowly nods his head. "Yeah I believe so, why?"
"Oh nothing, it's just I know him from the incident last year, he's a good kid. Pity his fathers a dick weed." Kisame explains.
"Sasuke was telling me about Naruto being part of the terrible fiasco. Were part of it? " Itachi asked, hoping Kisame would continue.
"After that day a case was filed, there were a lot of questions after the incident. Some people were adamant on blaming the whole thing on Naruto even though he should have died as well. His father didn't really seem to care if his son took the blame. The whole case ended up being dropped because it turned out Naruto was clearly the target due to his fathers previous investigations. During the whole thing his father didn't so much as show a hint of remorse for what his son, or all those other family members went through." Explained Kisame.
Itachi was shocked, he didn't bother hiding his slightly widened eyes. "Geeze, what do you even say to that?" He was truly at a loss for words.
Thinking back to his meetings with the teen last year Kisame frowns. "Thing is, Naruto believed it to all be his fault, he had to be stopped from speaking to reporters because he was ready to take all the blame."
Switching conversation topics a few more times they finally conclude their evening. Kisame walked Itachi over to his car. "Thanks for agreeing to go out with me tonight, you're pretty fun even when you're not drunk." Teased the older male.
Itachi rolls his eyes at the man's banter "Tch, you weren't so boring yourself, though I don't think anyone with gills tattooed on their face could be boring." Snorted Itachi.
"Mr. Uchiha, did you just snort at me?" Kisame playfully asked.
Itachi smirks, choosing to engage in playful banter. "I don't know Mr. Hoshigaki, did I?"
Kisame gives the younger male a big toothy grin, effectively taking Itachi's breath away. In the next moment light eyes get lost in onyx ones. An invisible force closed the gap between them, and next thing they knew, thin lips were pressed against plush ones in a sweet gentle kiss, sending tingles through both men.
Pulling away from each other Kisame smiles and sends a wink. "Have a good night Itachi."
Kisame walked away towards his own car leaving Itachi frozen in place. Watching as the older man drives off with a honk of his horn, Itachi finally snaps out of his trance and gets into his own car. Unconsciously bringing his hand up to his lips he whispers through a smile "good night."