The day had finally arrived. It was the grand opening of Konoha's most anticipated bar, Nine Tails. The newly built building had a red brick exterior with a neat yet eye-catching sign. The sign itself had lights that spotlighted a matte black background and in a similar styled script to the blond's tattoo was "Nine Tails" printed out in a burnt orange and boldly outlined red. Each of the scripted letters that had elegant swirls resembled a tail giving the words "Nine Tails" nine actual tails.
Everyone assumed it was just a bar and Naruto felt no obligation to correct anyone. The truth was that Nine Tails was so much more. Keeping with Shika and his original plan, it was naturally a bar that gave local artists a place to perform via sign up but it was also divided up into sections. Both sections were visually similar with the same darker colour scheme, custom lighting and plenty of seating options.
There were two separate entrances as the one section was designed to give the younger crowd a place to hang out while also enjoying music. There were virgin drinks along with a café styled beverage menu to offer a variety of choice all while giving the younger crowd a taste of a club while being completely legal. Through the other entrance was the actual bar designed for the older, of age patrons.
The two sections were divided by back to back bars, while there was ample floor space for all to dance and mingle. This came in handy for the large stage that sat directly between both sections. They hired a full time DJ for when local talent wasn't booked. They wanted to offer the same service to aspiring DJ's as they did bands, giving everyone equal opportunities.
There were four sets of spiral stairs, two led to balcony styled VIP lounges that overlooked the floor below, while the other two led to rooftop lounges that could be enjoyed throughout the warmer months. The rooftop lounge was decorated with a variety of modern patio furniture along with colour changing string lights that hung from light posts and a variety of custom potted trees. While the music would be loud enough to hear on its own, speakers were still placed around to give a better experience.
Overall, the place was perfect. It was beyond anything either man could have expected when they formed their half baked plan all those years ago.
"Shit, it really is perfect." Naruto stated in awe as he sat at the brand new never seated bar.
"I told you picture's didn't do it justice." The lazy man smirked.
Naruto ignored his friend's smug persona, he knew he was just every bit as excited as him which was a feat in and of itself. "So I'm assuming everything's a go then?"
"Yep, the staff's all sorted. We have security on every entrance as well as circulating. Bartenders and waiters are plentiful as well as our maintenance staff. DJ Rudi will be here shortly as well. The man seems like an idiot but he's honed his craft." Shika finished with a lazy shrug.
"Hn." The blond hums giving an impressed nod.
"What about you? Everything sorted on the band front?" Shika makes a slight head bob gesturing towards the large stage that was fitted with custom band equipment.
"Yeah, I ended up picking two bands." The blond shrugs unapologetically. "The contest winners will be here soon and the second should be arriving in a couple hours. Their flight got in at three this morning and I'm sure they all needed at least a modicum of rest."
At the beginning of the year, Jinchu had put together a contest for bands to try out to be the entertainment for Nine Tails grand opening. With Kurama being so big it was guaranteed to have influential people from the industry there and it would give the perfect opportunity for smaller bands who would never otherwise get their shot to get noticed. It was the exact vision Naruto had all those years ago.
Shika raises an eyebrow. "Two?"
Naruto rolled his eyes but there was no real annoyance. "Yes, the contest winners and this band I met on tour after I already made the selection."
Shika's throat made a noncommittal grunt. "They must have been something for you to forgo your contest rules."
"Yeah, yeah whatever," the blond snorted and playfully waved him off. Shika just shook his head while simultaneously taking in the visual of his friend.
"You know, I'm trying to figure out what's more bizarre. Seeing you, or seeing you like that." The lazy man gestured to the fully costumed vocalist. This was the first time seeing each other since the blond showed up on his doorstep a few days ago. While it was stranger speaking face to face after so many years, it was even stranger to speak to a fully costumed man.
Naruto rubbed the back of his mask with a sigh. "Eh, you get used to it. Though the mask's a bitch. Feel like I'm being cooked alive most of the time."
Shika snorted. "Well you always did run warmer than most."
"True," he chuckled. "Anyways, I have a few last minute things to do before I need to be here to receive the bands and Tsukuyomi's journalist. I trust you can hold down the fort in my absence?" Naruto teased knowing full well Shika's more than capable.
The man clicked his tongue, feigning annoyance. "Tch, such little faith."
Naruto winked at him. "You know I love ya Shika." The blond went to walk away before turning back around with a finger snap. "Oh yeah! In case the bands get here before I'm back they're names are Dream Walker and God's Eye. I'd hate for them to get turned away because I wasn't here."
Shika quickly makes a mental note. "And the journalist?"
Naruto tensed, he hadn't told Shika about Sasuke tagging along with the journalist. "Haku and his plus one...Sasuke."
The brunette's eyes became comically large. "You're kidding?"
Naruto deadpanned.
"Right..." Shika knew Naruto would joke about anything involving the raven. Instead of carrying on with this line of conversation, the Nara opted for a quick course change. "Careful out there, paparazzi's already going nuts."
Grateful for the topic change, Naruto nods appreciatively. "Always am."
Sasuke was thrumming with anticipation. He always took the time to look good, but he found himself changing his outfit three times which was very unlike him. He settled on a silky, blood red button up and had the top two buttons undone and the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. His flawless, alabaster skin almost glowed in contrast to the dark material. He wore black form fitting slacks that showcased his lean, muscular thighs and his tight perky ass. His feet donned a luxurious pair of brown Italian leather boots. Around his neck was his silver chain with a pendant of his family crest and on his wrist was a matching Rolex along with a few of his favourite rings.
With a few sprays of cologne he grabs his phone, wallet and keys before taking one last look in the mirror. Satisfied with the way both he and his hair looked he turned the lights off and headed out. Haku was already waiting for him in one of Tsukuyomi's event limos by the time he got down to his parking garage. The driver that was waiting for his arrival opened his door and allowed him to slide in smoothly before closing the door behind him.
"You look nice," the adjacent man complimented.
Haku wore a teal coloured, form fitting button up and loose fitting olive coloured slacks with tawny suede shoes. His hair was done up in a top knot with tendrils of hair hanging down to frame his flawless face. Around his neck was a black, corded leather choker that hung a silver needle like pendant.
Sasuke hummed dismissively as he pulled out his phone. "Hn."
Haku couldn't help but sigh. The man should have known better than to expect any sort of compliment back. "So, you excited?"
Sasuke shrugged, feigning indifference as he continued to scroll through his phone. "It's just a bar."
The brunette could barely hold back his eye roll. "Still, what do you think it'll be like?"
The raven looked up from his phone and squinted at the man. He didn't want to play twenty questions, he just wanted to day dream about seeing the elusive fox again. "Shouldn't you be going over questions or something?"
Haku visibly deflated. "I already know my questions."
"Still, you should be preparing, Kurama doesn't answer easily," scolded the raven. Normally Sasuke wouldn't care if someone made a fool of themselves, but with him being associated with Haku, he didn't want to be made a fool of by affiliation.
Haku shrugs. "Exactly, he'll probably not answer much anyways. Besides, Kimimaro already did most of the work, it's just my job tonight to inquire about Kurama's bar and why Konoha. Tomorrow will be everything regarding the group's tour closure and what's next."
Sasuke couldn't hide his sneer. "And you wonder why Shisui never gave you the opportunity to work with bigger artists before?" To Sasuke, Haku sounded terribly underprepared.
"Hey!" Haku crossed his arms and pouted indignantly. "I work very hard! Just because I don't want to feel stuffy with my questions like every other person who's probably interviewed him doesn't mean I'm not good at what I do!"
Sasuke snorted sardonically. "Whatever you say. I just hope I can count on you not to embarrass me."
"You're such an asshole," huffed Haku.
With a lazy shrug, Sasuke looked back down at his phone. "At this point that shouldn't be news."
With Haku now second guessing himself thanks to Sasuke, he spent the rest of the ride going through a list of questions he'd already memorised. By the time they pulled up out front of the bar they were greeted by a rolled out red carpet and a slew of paparazzi.
"Holy shit," Sasuke muttered. He expected a quaint little bar, not a giant club.
'Nine Tails...Why does that seem so familiar? ' Sasuke mused. Quickly he brushed the thought away, opting to allow excitement to discreetly wash over him. Coming from the building he could feel the bassy music vibrating his sternum, syncing his heart rate even through the vehicle. He hated crowds, but for some strange reason this felt exhilarating to him.
"Wow, this is more than just a bar. If it weren't for the crowd I'd think we were at the wrong place," Haku stammered. Konoha had been getting larger, but this wasn't like anything else in town.
There were two roped off lines, one to each entrance of the bar. Down the centre was a red carpet that allowed for invited guests to safely enter. Security was surrounding the drop off and lines to ensure both patrons and paparazzi behave themselves while waiting for both entrance and, or photography.
As soon as the customised Tsukuyomi limo came to a halt, a herd of bodyguards sprung into action ready to protect and escort the duo inside.
As soon as he stepped out the barrage of questions began firing.
"Sasuke Uchiha over here!"
"Over here!"
"Is that your date?"
"Are you working for Tsukuyomi now?"
"Sasuke, is it true you have a drinking problem?"
"Are you close with Jinchu?"
"Do you know Kurama?"
"Sasuke over here!"
"Who's the lucky man with you?"
"Sasuke what are you doing here tonight?"
"Sasuke, do you have anything to tell us?"
Keeping his mask firmly in place Sasuke ignored every question, refusing to so much as look in the direction of a reporter as he allowed security to usher Haku and himself inside where they were quickly screened. He anticipated the reporters, but it didn't mean he enjoyed it. He was used to the constant invasion of privacy, but that was a whole new level even for him. The appeal for having a secret identity was always intriguing, and seeing this he can understand why the band has gone through such lengths to keep it. He couldn't deal with that extent of scrutiny everywhere he went.
As they were coaxed past security, a well dressed man was there to greet them. "Hello Mr. Uchiha, Mr. Yuki, welcome! My name is Pablo and if you need anything tonight I've been assigned to take care of it," the bleach blond, toffee skinned man bowed politely at them. "If you would please follow me, I've been instructed by Kurama to bring you up to his personal VIP balcony."
It was a little hard to hear the man with the music blaring, but they got the gist of it and allowed the well groomed man to lead them up the winding, iron staircase. The club was beautifully lit with colour changing LEDs, it wasn't too dark nor too crazy and it still held that almost intimate dimness to it. It was strange to see the building divided in two yet have an open flowing vibe to it as well.
Being up a floor on the VIP balconies, it was easy to see just how busy the place was. It should have been expected, but the huge lines outside that wound round either side of the building all made sense now. The dance floors below were packed, every VIP booth was full or reserved and it was obvious by the foot traffic that the rooftop lounges were booming as well.
When they finally reached an open door to the private room they were greeted by two sizable bodyguards, behind them seated a couple members of Jinchu. Kurama was casually leaning over the railing that was behind glass observing all that was going on down below while beside him a much smaller man seemed to be doing the same thing. The glass muffled the sound of the club making it easier for people to talk without having to scream at each other. Both Sasuke and Haku couldn't help but wonder if he had this booth designed specifically for that reason or if it were simply for safety.
"Mr. Kurama sir, your guests," the bleach blond man bowed.
The vocalist turned his head slightly before giving the man a polite nod. "Thanks Pablo."
"Of course sir," Pablo stood up, turning his attention back to the new arrivals. "Is there anything I can get either of you?"
Haku was the first to speak. "I'll have a Singapore sling please."
"Of course, and you sir?" Pablo turns his attention to the raven.
Sasuke hadn't heard the man originally, he was too busy ogling the alluring vocalist who was much more dressed up than he'd ever seen him. Kurama still had that menacing fox mask, but instead he forwent his usual jumpsuits for light grey slacks that left nothing to the imagination, a form fitting white button up that stretched nicely across the man's broad, defined shoulders and arms, a grey and black vest and crimson red tie that matched his eyes. Embroidered on his shoulders in a matching red were twin nines and on the back of his vest his unique sigil was embroidered. Even dressed up, the man matched his iconic jumpsuits, going as far as wearing his usual black combat boots.
Finally realising he was being spoken to the raven clears his throat and reluctantly looks away from the fox. "Bloody Mary."
"Coming right up," the blond man bows before taking his leave, bodyguards closing the door behind him.
Naruto snorted. 'Of course you'd order a Bloody Mary.'
Sasuke cleared his throat, turning his attention back to the fox. "Something funny?"
Pushing himself off the railing Naruto straightens himself up. "Nothing for you to worry about," he responded dryly. "Please have a seat."
"Hn," Sasuke grunted, but made his way over to the plush sofa with Haku following.
"I trust you remember everyone?" Naruto used his head to gesture between the duo and Shukaku and Kokuō who just absently nodded acknowledging them.
"Yes, though I don't think I know who that is," Haku pointed to the smaller man that was still hidden behind the fox.
"What a drag," the brunette grumbles before straightening himself up and coming into view.
Sasuke couldn't hide the shock on his face. "Nara?" He was so enthralled with the fox that he hadn't really taken notice of the man next to him.
"Uchiha," he greeted back.
"You two know each other?" Haku questioned curiously, looking back and forth between the two.
Shika lazily walked over towards them. "Yeah, we went to high school together," he extended his hand to the fellow brunette. "Shikamaru Nara."
"Haku Yuki, nice to meet you," he accepted the man's hand with a warm smile. "So high school huh? Has he always been this prickly?"
Naruto walked over to the far side and took a seat next to Han and Gaara who were quietly observing the interaction. Shika was quick to release Haku's hand before heading over to take his seat next to the fox. "More or less," he smirked.
Sasuke scoffed. "At least I'm not a lazy ass."
"Sasuke!" Haku jabbed the raven in the side with his elbow.
"Haku what the fuck?!" Growled the raven as he held his abused side.
The brunette scowled at him. "Be nice."
Shika waves his arm dismissively. "It's fine, I am lazy."
"But-" Haku was cut off by the door opening.
"Here are your drinks. Bloody Mary for you," he placed the drink down in front of the raven then gently grabbed and placed the next cocktail. "And a Singapore sling for you. Can I get anybody else anything?" Pablo looked around at the group before settling on Naruto.
"I think we're fine for now, thank you," Naruto nodded to the man appreciatively. It wasn't like a bunch of mask wearing men could drink to begin with.
"Of course sir," the man bowed before taking his place in the corner awaiting any future instructions. He blended in startlingly well.
Sasuke picked up his drink to take a tentative sip making sure it was appropriately made. Satisfied, he turned his attention towards Shika. "So, how exactly do you know each other?" He sent a pointed look at the fox. He wanted to know how they happened to be acquainted. Also, he may not have appreciated being seated so far away from the vocalist while Shika had the privilege of casually sitting beside him.
Haku stayed quiet, he was going to ask too but if Sasuke was going to blurt out the same question he'd gladly sit back and listen.
"Man, what a drag," the Nara sighed, finding Sasuke's intrusive question far too troublesome.
"You don't need to answer that," Naruto's voice was calm and flat, as he leaned back with his elbows resting over the back of the plush sofa.
"I'd actually like to know as well," Haku added inquisitively before taking a sip of his overly sweet drink. Under the gaze of these men, he was starting to feel like he should've ordered a stronger drink.
"Fine, leave him alone though. You're here to ask me questions, no?" Naruto's deep voice filled with authority.
"Fine," Sasuke chimed in. "How do you know him?"
Naruto tilted his head to the side as if contemplating something. "Funny, I wasn't aware you were the journalist."
"Well, ah. Excuse me?" Sasuke stammered, staring dumbly back at him, completely taken back. He wasn't used to being dismissed. He was under the assumption the vocalist liked him, after all he agreed to perform at his birthday.
"I'm here to answer his questions," the fox pointed his chin at the brunette. "So Haku, if you will."
"Oh, oh! Of course!" Haku quickly places his glass down, he didn't expect to win the limelight over the Uchiha. "Do you mind if I record this?"
Sasuke wasn't sure what just happened. He sat there holding back his gape, this should have made him livid, but somehow the easy dismissal just made him that much fonder of the alluring man.
"That's fine," Naruto gave a curt nod.
"Thank you," Haku beamed. He pulled off his brown leather satchel and dug through it to retrieve everything he needed. Before hitting record he looked towards the fox for approval. "Ready?"
"Hn," hummed Naruto. That earned him a rather curious look from the raven as he'd never heard anyone other than the Uchiha perfect the single syllable grunt.
"Excellent!" Record was pressed. "So, how do you know Shikamaru Nara? You two have never been mentioned together before."
"We're simply business partners," the fox answered dryly.
Sasuke scowled at the Nara. "You were supposed to do this with Naruto!"
A snort interrupted before Haku could scold Sasuke. "Sorry," the raccoon masked band member cleared his throat. Gaara was still having a hard time coming to terms with the raven not knowing Kurama was Naruto.
"It's fine," Haku sent a small smile. "Sasuke, can you not interrupt please?"
"He was supposed to do this with his best friend!" He turned his gaze from Haku to glare at Shika. "What, he's gone so you figured you'd turn your back on him?"
"Don't you dare Uchiha, if anyone turned their back on him it's you," Shikamaru's voice held more venom than the raven had ever heard before and it definitely hit its mark.
"Now, him I like," the horse masked man whispered to Gaara while gesturing to the Nara.
Gaara nodded at Han. "Agreed."
Sasuke's face fell, it had been years since someone other than himself made him feel like shit regarding Naruto. Placing his mask back up as quickly as it fell he looked back up at Shika. "You're right, I fucked up and I have to live with that mistake every day of my life." Suddenly his Bloody Mary wasn't looking strong enough anymore.
Naruto leaned forward, resting his elbow on his knees. The look on Sasuke's face and the regret in his voice was doing strange things to his stomach and he needed a distraction. "Can we just get back to the questions?"
Haku made an appreciative noise. He wasn't sure what the hell was going on. "I think that's a splendid idea."
"Hn," Sasuke leaned back and crossed his arms. He wanted Shika to feel as bad as he did, but didn't want to impede Haku's interview anymore. It baffled him, he could always keep his composure but there was just something about the energy in the room that prevented him from doing so and made his emotions run high, and he didn't do emotions.
"I'm actually gonna go take a quick walk around and see how everything's going," Shikamaru informed Naruto as he stood up, the atmosphere was becoming too heavy for him.
"Alright, you wanna take Shukaku or Kokuō with you?" He asked.
Shika shook his head lazily. "Nah, should be fine, I'm not you," he smirked. "I'll be back when it's time for you to introduce God's Eye."
Naruto snorted then gave his friend a quick nod before the man walked out. He turned his attention back to Haku. "So, where were we?"
"Right," Haku shook his head to re-focus. "So, you said you two are business partners, but how did you meet?"
"Let's just say we both wanted to accomplish the same thing. I wanted to open a place for people to enjoy themselves while giving local talent a place they could perform, he also wanted that," the fox shrugged. It wasn't a lie, just not the full truth.
"He was supposed to do this with his best friends," Sasuke grumbled under his voice like a petulant child as he sipped his drink.
Naruto glanced over at Sasuke, he wasn't quite sure what he was feeling at the moment, he knew he should ignore the man but every fibre of his being made him react. "Well he got me." Sasuke was oblivious to the fact that he meant Shikamaru did get Naruto.
"Heh," Haku chuckled nervously. "Why did you choose Konoha to open your establishment?"
"Why not? My label's HQ is here after all, seems as good a place as any," Naruto shrugged insouciantly.
"True, but why come all the way overseas? Why not choose the place you're from?" Haku further prodded, trying to prove his worth as a journalist.
"And what makes you think I'm not from here?" Naruto's voice was laced with amusement.
"Wait, you're from Konoha? Is that how you know Shikamaru Nara" Shock was evident in both Haku's voice and on his face. Sasuke's own brow furrowed.
Naruto leaned back once again, his posture giving nothing away. "I am, but that's all I'll say about that."
Haku sighed heavily but conceded. "Okay. Can you tell me about this place? It was said to be a bar, but it's far from just a bar."
"I honestly don't know who started going around saying it was a bar, but when news got out I didn't feel the need to correct anyone," the fox shrugged. "And like I already said, I wanted a place where local talent had a chance to perform. For everyone to have equal opportunity I wanted to make sure that age wouldn't be an issue, which is how we got here," he made a quick gesture around with his hand.
"So is it going to be like this every night?" Haku asked.
"I can't predict how busy it'll be, but not every night will be as loud as tonight. Weekends will be reserved for live performances while throughout the week it'll be much mellower. I like the idea of giving all crowds a chance to enjoy the place, so some nights will be loud while other nights not so much," Naruto explained.
"Hm, alright," Haku took a quick drink before delivering his next question. "Why the name Nine Tails?" Sasuke was curious about this as well but was quickly let down when all Kurama said was nine was his number.
'Why nine?' Sasuke found himself pondering.
The questions continued until Shikamaru returned to inform the fox it was time for him to introduce the second band. When Naruto left, Han and Gaara followed behind him along with Shika leaving Haku and Sasuke alone.
Throughout the questioning Sasuke managed to stay mostly composed by switching out his drinks for something stiffer. He was perplexed, his senses were all screaming at him trying to tell him something but he couldn't put his finger on it. It was a feeling he wasn't comfortable with. It was supposed to be a great night, but as he leaned over the railing watching the fox and his bandmates finish introducing God's Eye, a band that Kurama had flown in for this performance, his chest ached.
"You alright?" Haku nudged the raven gently.
"Hn," he grunted.
The brunette gave him a soft smile. "You wanna tell me about your outbursts? No offence, but that's not like you."
"Not particularly," Sasuke grumbled.
"You might feel better if you talk about it," Haku pointed out. He wasn't used to seeing the raven so affected by someone before. Whoever this Naruto was must have been pretty special.
Sasuke squinted his eyes shut and pinched the bridge of his nose. "I doubt that."
"Come on Sasuke, how do you know if you don't try?" Haku tried to ask gently.
"Because talking about Naruto isn't going to bring him back!" Sasuke snapped.
Startled by the outburst, Haku jumped back a little." You don't mean-"
Sasuke sighed. "No he's not dead, or at least I don't think he is." He didn't know why he was entertaining this conversation, maybe alcohol was still a verbal lubricant for him.
"You think?" A frown marred Haku's brows.
The raven walked over to the faux leather sofa and collapsed into it as though he were completely exhausted all of a sudden. "He disappeared eight years ago."
Haku's face paled as he took a seat beside him. "Wait, you don't mean that detective's son?"
Sasuke leaned forward resting his face in his palms. "Yeah, that's the one."
"You knew him?" Haku's voice quivered. He remembered hearing about the teen and the horrors he'd endured all those years ago.
"He was my boyfriend," Sasuke's voice was muffled. He didn't know what it was, but something was making him talk.
After announcing God's Eye the four stayed backstage to listen. Not only did Naruto want to have a completely unobscured experience, but he couldn't deal with any more of Haku's questions. Never having done proper interviews before he was still getting used to actually talking even after spending months with Kimimaro. Sasuke's gaze wasn't doing anything to put him at ease either.
"Shit, they are good," Shika tried to shout out.
Naruto got closer and leaned down to the lazy man's ear so he wouldn't have to yell. "I know right? There is no way they're leaving here without someone scouting them."
Shikamaru reciprocated with the same method of response, oblivious to the fact that it wasn't necessary. "For sure, Dream Walker was approached twice."
Naruto nods then turns to Han and Gaara upon sensing the others. "I thought they weren't coming?"
Gaara shrugged. "They wanted to surprise you. Did you really think they wanted a quiet night?"
Naruto rubbed the back of his mask sheepishly. "I thought they were just burning out, we've been on tour for the last several months."
"Since when do any of us burn out? They just wanted to wait for Rōshi and Yugito to land so they could all come together," Han softly chuckled.
Naruto was bewildered. "How'd you get Rōshi and Yugito to come all the way here? Rōshi never leaves his tower and Yugito's not big on crossing oceans."
Shikamaru was looking at them curiously, he could barely hear Naruto but those three were conversing like they were in a library. 'I wonder if that has anything to do with his weird eyes.'
To this day Naruto hasn't told him what was going on that day, but he wouldn't push it, it was too much effort anyways. He was also oblivious to the other Jinchūriki, to Shika they were just normal band mates.
"Did you really think they'd miss you fulfilling your dream?" Gaara had an incredulous eyebrow raised behind his mask.
"Well shit, I don't know. I really thought when I said bye to them that I wouldn't be seeing them for a while," Naruto scoffed fondly. "They coming decked out or casual?"
"They'll be in full gear," Han stated. "They want to be able to mingle with you without raising any suspicions."
"They already know to come through the back?" Naruto gestured with his head towards the direction of the private entry. They would still be seen entering, but the private entrance led to the corridors instead of the busy club. The back corridors lead to stock rooms, staff rooms and private stairwells to both VIP and rooftop lounges.
"Yeah," Han nodded.
"What's going on?" Shika finally got curious enough to tippy toe towards Naruto's ear to ask. The back and forth they were having was impossible for him to understand, especially with them all wearing masks.
Naruto took pity on his vertically challenged friend and leaned down to return the gesture. "The rest of my band will be here any minute."
As if on cue the rest of the Jinchūriki filed into the little backstage area. The room was made for a group of four or five, not nine people and two giants. The room was cramped to say the least.
"Assholes!" Naruto yelled affectionately at them as he proceeded to give each of them a hug.
"This totally rocks, we pulled one over on the fox, yeah!" Killer Bee punched the air in victory.
"You tell 'em Gyūki!" Fu giggled.
"Don't encourage him, Chōmei," Utakata yawned.
"Careful he doesn't kill you in your sleep tonight Gyūki," Yagura chuckled.
Bee shook his head in disagreement. "That won't happen to me, I'm too valuable ya see!"
"You don't stop that rhyming crap I just might." Naruto teasingly threatened. "But you two I just might actually kill. What's the big idea in leaving me hanging huh?" He sent a pointed look at the only two Jinchūriki that weren't part of the band.
Rōshi gave the blond a beaming smile. "What, wasn't this a nice surprise?"
"Of course it is! But you'll have to excuse me for being shocked that King Kong came down from his tower and the kitty cat crossed the ocean." Underneath Naruto's mask he wore a shit eating grin, teasing was their way of showing affection for one another.
"Next time you refer to me like that I'll be sure to show you my claws," Yugito playfully jabbed.
"Yeah, and I have no trouble dropping you from said tower you giant shit," smirked Rōshi.
Naruto smiled and brought them both into a simultaneous hug. "I look forward to it."
"Good, you guys can destroy your property now," Jiraiya guffawed. His outfit was surprisingly tame tonight. The summer heat made him forgo his precious blazer. To anyone quickly passing by he'd look like a casually dressed man, but his amphibian belt buckle didn't lie.
Shika just stood back and observed, this was the first time seeing the group in person, it was a bit intimidating even for a lazy genius such as himself.
"Oh shit that's right, everybody this is who I told you all about. This is Shikamaru Nara," Naruto extended his arm towards his friend which was good because it was the only way Shika knew he was talking about him because he still couldn't hear shit. Naruto had told them all about Shikamaru, so finding out that the mystery man in the room was the blond's best friend set them all at ease.
Overwhelmed by the presence each of the group brought, Shika slowly raised his hand in the air and yelled. "Hi."
Naruto snorted while leaning down to his dazed friend. "Shika, this is Jiraiya, Rōshi, Yagura, Yugito, Utakata, Killer Bee and Fu. And you already met Gaara and Han." Everybody greeted him one by one. It was strange for Naruto to introduce everyone on a first name basis.
With God's Eyes set about to finish up, Naruto addressed the spacing issues. "It's a bit crowded, why don't you guys go and we'll meet on the roof when I'm done with the band?"
"Will you be alright alone?" Han questioned with concern.
"Who's forgetting who we are now?" The blond teased.
Han scoffed playfully. "Fine, but if a hoard jumps you it's your own fault."
"Please, I'm not leaving the safety of the corridors," Naruto chuckled. He may be a Jinchūriki but that didn't mean he was jumping at the chance to beat fans off of him. Security can only do so much, better to avoid it all together.
Han tilted his head to the side. "Yeah, that's probably for the best."
Everyone began to file out leaving only Shikamaru. "Don't forget about your guests eh?"
Naruto sweat dropped, he' somehow completely forgotten about them. "Can you collect them along the way?"
"Not gonna happen. They're here for you after all," Shika smirked as he began to walk out.
"I'll remember this Shika!" Naruto shouted loud enough for the retreating chuckling man to hear.
Naruto waited to see God's Eye after their performance like he said. He wanted to see how they were doing after their set. They had obviously performed before but being in a completely different country when neither of them had left their hometown before had to have been daunting. The group resonated with something deep inside, reminding him of himself.
The band had travelled with the vocalists' foster parents. The teen had been bounced around all his life until finally being adopted last year. It was an inspirational story that struck the blond's heart before he'd even had the chance to hear the band's demo they'd left him. The band was a group of misfits that deserved the world, and Naruto was even more affirmed after hearing them live that that was exactly what they would get.
Leaving the group behind with their chaperone Naruto began ascending the stairs, he had to retrieve Sasuke and Haku they'd been left alone for a while now. Naruto nodded to the bodyguards outside of his private lounge. He was about to enter when his heightened hearing heard the two inside talking so he paused a moment.
"You really did that?" Haku couldn't hide the shock in his voice.
"Yes, even to this day I've been searching for him. I want nothing more than to know he's doing alright. All these years and all I've received is that one letter." Sasuke's voice sounded dejected even through the thick door.
"Well shit Sasuke. I'm sorry. You must have really loved him huh?" The brunette mumbled softly.
Sasuke sighed heavily. "I did, do. It just feels like I'm never going to get the chance-"
Naruto's stomach began to do funny things again. He couldn't listen anymore, so he opened the door, cutting the raven off. Sending the both of them a pointed look he made a gesture with his head. "Come on, everyone's on the roof."
"Do you need me to come as well sir?" Pablo asked enthusiastically from his cosy corner.
"Yes you too Pablo," Naruto shook his head before turning and leaving the lounge. He trusted the others would be trailing behind.
Haku raised an eyebrow when Naruto led them to the back stairwell. "Where are we going?"
Naruto looked over his shoulder. "Did you really think I'd walk through the club? I'd rather not get mauled thanks."
Sasuke couldn't help but snort at that, earning him a dirty look from Haku. "Sorry, I should have figured."
Naruto shrugged. "It's fine."
They began to ascend the stairwell towards the roof, giving the two guests a perfect view of the fox's firm, perky ass. Sasuke had to stop himself from drooling while Haku's lack of attention regarding his surroundings may have caused him to trip on a couple of the steps.
When they reached the top, Naruto pulled out a keycard that he had to swipe to unlock the door. The roof was every bit as busy as the floors below, lucky for them Naruto had a private lounge on the roof as well. This lounge obviously didn't have a door, but bodyguards were stationed around the roped off section blocking it from everyone else.
After weaving through the rooftop Naruto regretted coming up here, he would have preferred answering Haku's invasive questions for the rest of the night if he could just avoid the man that was harassing with Jinchu.
Naruto turned around to face Sasuke and Haku. "I'm sorry about this."
"About wha-" Sasuke began to ask with a quirked eyebrow.
"Kurama?! There you are!" Came bounding a white haired man as he leapt and latched on to the foxes back.
'Hozuki, if you want to live to see tomorrow you'll get the fuck off of me," Naruto growled, his voice was enough to cause the temperature to drop several degrees.
Suigetsu was still a moron so he just laughed it off. "Oh come on beef cake! You know you missed me!"
"Sui, I'd rather not clean up blood tonight. Get off the man." A tall broad dark haired man with a raspy voice warned.
"But Zabuza, he loves me!" Suigetsu pouted, tightening his grip on the fox.
"1...2..." Naruto began to count.
"Okay, fine, fine I'm getting off...Unless you want to help me with that?" Sui winked at the fox even though he couldn't see him.
"3... Don't say I didn't warn you." Naruto reached around but Zabuza had beaten him to it.
Zabuza had grabbed the obnoxious man's ear and pried him off the fox. "He's really going to kill you one of these days."
"Ow, ow! Okay, okay I give. Geeze." Suigetsu began to violently rub his abused ear.
Naruto sighed, before turning his attention to Zabuza. "The others make it?"
Zabuza shook his head. "Nah, it's only us. Mangetsu was here but an emergency came up."
It was that moment Suigetsu realised that Kurama wasn't alone. "Well, hello handsome," he wiggled his eyebrows at Sasuke.
"No," Sasuke glared at him.
"Oh come on, don't be like that. You're just large enough for me. I bet something else is large too," Sui winked at him.
Sasuke looked at Kurama. "You mind if I commit a murder?"
Naruto snorted. "Be my guest, I'll even hide the body."
Haku shook his head, finally coming back to reality, he had been too busy ogling Zabuza. He looked over at the fox slipping back on his journalist mask. "How do you know Swordsman?"
Naruto's brow was raised incredulity. "I've been in the industry for years, how could I not?"
Haku pursed his lips, a light blush dusting his cheeks. "I mean how did you guys meet?"
Zabuza was taken by the man's flushed face and gentle features, he couldn't help himself from answering in the fox's place. "Jinchu opened for us many years ago."
Naruto smirked under his mask at how the men were reacting to each other. "Yeah, it was one of our first big shows."
When Jinchu first got signed they had to pay their dues like everybody else but the first big concert they were a part of had them opening for Swordsman. Naruto never thought he'd have to meet the annoying white haired man again but it seemed fate was against him in that regard. Lucky for him Suigetsu wasn't always with the band. Aside from dealing with the huge flirt on occasion, Jinchu got along fairly well with the actual members of Swordsman.
"Oh really?" Haku asked, but he was paying more attention to Zabuza than Kurama as he got closer to the gruff man.
This was a detail that even Sasuke in his buzzed state didn't miss. 'Interesting,' he smirked while simultaneously shoving Suigetsu away irritably.
"Tell you what, how about you guys chat and you can come find us when you're done?" Naruto hated interviews, and who was he to deny fate the opportunity to not only allow two individuals who were clearly interested in each other a chance to talk, but also get out of more interview questions?
"I think that's a great idea," Sasuke found himself agreeing. He wouldn't deny the opportunity to ditch Haku while sticking with the fox.
"Are you sure?" Haku asked Sasuke offhandedly. They came together and he didn't want the raven to feel like he'd been abandoned, especially after all he divulged not long ago.
Sasuke shrugged, the sooner they parted, the sooner he could convince his pride he'd never opened his mouth. "Pretty sure I'll live."
"What about me?" Pouted Suigetsu, he was always being left out and he couldn't figure out why.
Zabuza turned to the flirtatious man, but kept Haku close. "What happened to your date?
Suigetsu's already fair complexion paled. "Shit I forgot about him."
Zabuza snorted. "Of course you did."
Suigetsu crossed his arms resentfully. "Hey! I saw Kokuō and had to come see him and Kurama. You know how I love my large men."
'Like fuck we are.' Suigetsu regarding Han and himself as his men made the blond internally shudder.
"Good, you can leave me alone then," Sasuke muttered. He had enough people trying to cling to him, he didn't need some razor toothed lecher.
"No way, you Uchiha are too handsome to ignore. And I told you, you're just large enough," he winked provocatively.
"SUIGETSU!" A rather angry man shouted.
The white haired man's eyes bulged before he looked at his non-existent watch. "Heh, well would you look at the time, I believe I best be going."
Naruto shook his head and chuckled before looking at the raven. "Well Uchiha, you coming?"
Sasuke wasn't about to stay and be Haku's third wheel so he nodded. "Hn."
Haku wanted to object and was about to bid Zabuza farewell but when the man slipped his hand oner his lower back to guide him elsewhere, everything else seemed inconsequential.
"So why didn't you perform?" Sasuke asked the fox. He had finally gotten his chance to sit next to the man and he wasn't going to waste it.
"It wasn't about me. This was a chance for them and I wasn't about to let them get overlooked," Naruto shrugged. Something about the tone he'd heard when Sasuke was speaking to Haku and his declaration of love had embedded itself in his mind, and he couldn't find it in him to keep his distance from the man. What was even more startling was he didn't seem to mind when they fell into casual conversation.
"You remind me of him," Sasuke blurted out.
Silently, Naruto swallowed heavily. "Naruto?"
A few of the Jinchūriki eyed them curiously.
Leaning back, Sasuke looked up longingly at the starry sky, something he often did when reminiscing about the blond. "Yeah."
"How so?" Naruto asked just loud enough to be heard. The music wasn't too loud on the roof so it was easier to engage in conversation. Naruto wasn't sure what made him ask but he figured it was probably a deep part of himself that wanted to know how Sasuke was really doing.
Sasuke closed his eyes. "I can't really pinpoint it, it's everything really. The talent, the drive, the compassion for others. This exact building was one of his dreams and you're carrying it out with his best friend," he made wide arm gestures. "God, it's like you're everything he ever wanted to be...Everything he deserved to be," he whispered the last part but Naruto heard.
It was impossible for Naruto to ignore the sorrow in the raven's voice. "You sound sad."
Sasuke opened his eyes, but his brow was marred with a frown. "I just miss him," he turned his head sideways and glanced at the fox. " I miss him so damn much."
The alcohol and the vibe Kurama was giving off loosened his ambitions, and he couldn't even find it in himself to hit on the alluring vocalist. His mind was too busy in the past, retracing every wrong move he made.
Naruto was at a loss for words, in moments like these it was easy to forget what Sasuke put him through. "I'm not sure what to say to that," he admitted.
Sasuke snorted sardonically, then sat up and grabbed his glass. "There's nothing you really can say to that. I fucked up and I'm stuck living with it," he finished his drink in one swig.
Even to this day it would appear that the man's dejection affected the blond and he hated the feeling. "I'm sure he knows you're sorry for whatever it is you did."
"If that were the case why wouldn't he reach out? Eight year and still nothing." Sasuke hung his head with a groan.
What was Naruto supposed to say to that? He was supposed to be Kurama right now, how was he supposed to tell him how deeply Sasuke wounded him. How he had been the last tendril of hope he had left and he so carelessly clipped it. Why would he reach out to someone who wanted to wipe their hands of him without so much as a second thought?
"Maybe he just needs time," the blond finally managed to say. It was true after all, he needed every second of those eight years.
"Eight years isn't enough?" The raven chuckled mirthlessly.
"After sixteen years of torture, probably not," Naruto snapped. He didn't mean to, but he couldn't hold it back.
Sasuke snapped his face to the fox. "How do you know that?"
"It doesn't take a genius to realise you were talking about Naruto Uzumaki," the fox shook his head more at himself than the raven. He just hoped that explanation was good enough to throw the raven off in his current inebriated state.
The raven didn't try to hide his frown. "I guess that makes sense."
"You're awfully chatty tonight Uchiha." Shika interrupts.
"Shut it Nara," Sasuke grumbled, he was still furious that Shikamaru would open a place without Naruto.
Shikamaru ignored him and glanced at the blond. "I just wanted to see if you needed me to stay? It's almost two."
Naruto hadn't even realised that the roof was almost completely clear. He quickly shook his head, feeling bad for his lazy friend. "Nah it's fine, the staff seem competent enough."
"Guess we'll find out tomorrow huh?" The Nara chuckled.
Naruto mirrored his friend. "Guess so."
"Shit, it's really almost two?" Sasuke squints his eyes at his watch. "Fuck I should find Haku."
Shikamaru scratched his head awkwardly. "Actually, I'm pretty sure he already left with Zabuza."
"Well they did look like they were getting along," Naruto snorted. Sasuke's facial expression was priceless, it was like he couldn't believe the brunette left him behind.
"Well shit, I hope I still have a ride," Sasuke blinked dumbly into space.
Shikamaru snorted. "Yeah you do, it's pretty hard to miss the black, purple pearlescent limo parked up.
"Pablo?" Naruto called out. He couldn't see him, but the man was good at sticking to the shadows.
Sure enough he popped out. "Yes sir?"
"Can you have Mr. Uchiha's driver pull around back for him?" Naruto asked politely.
Pablo smiled with a bow. "Right away!"
Sasuke looked at the fox dumbfounded. "You don't have to do that."
The fox waved him off dismissively. "It gives him something to do."
The raven hummed thoughtfully. "Hn, well he does seem rather eager to please, but I was talking about being picked up out back."
Naruto finally stood up from the lounge. "Ah. Well it's easier than walking through the building. Up here it may be quiet, but the ground floor stays open till three, which means the chances of getting swarmed are still high."
Shika placed his hands in his pockets. "He's right, it's still packed down there."
"Well, thanks," Sasuke reluctantly said as he carefully stood up. Giving thanks wasn't something he'd ever get used to.
"Hn," Naruto grunted, then turned to his fellow Jinchūriki. "I'll be back, just walking them out."
They all gave him affirmative head nods before the trio headed towards the private stairwell. Once they made their way to the private entrance at the rear of the building Shikamaru congratulated the fox one final time before heading out to his vehicle leaving the two ex lovers waiting for the ravens ride.
"You really are fucking huge," Sasuke accidently blurted out. His hand flew over his mouth as a look of horror flashed over his face. "Shit I'm sorry, I d-"
Naruto interrupted him with a deep throaty laugh. Sasuke's reaction to his own outburst filled Naruto with a warmth that was impossible to ignore. "It's alright, I get that reaction a lot."
When the beautiful sound of the man's rumbly laugh subsided, Sasuke snapped out of his daze and allowed himself to smirk. "Well you can't blame them."
The fox let out an amused huff. "Guess not."
Seemingly out of thin air, Pablo appeared. "Mr. Uchiha, your ride is ready and waiting."
"Thank you," he gave the eager man a curt nod before turning towards the fox. "You guys did a good job on this place."
Naruto brought his hand up to rub the back of his mask out of habit. "Shikamaru really oversaw most of it, I just footed the bill."
"Still, I don't give compliments out frivolously, I mean it," Sasuke's slightly glazy eyes conveyed nothing but honesty.
'Nice to see even after all these years, alcohol makes you talk,' Naruto internally snorted remembering the raven's legendary drunk dial. 'At least you're not sniffing me this time.'
The fox shook his head fondly. "Thanks Uchiha."
"Sasuke," the raven corrected.
Naruto tilted his head. "Hm?"
"Not Uchiha, call me Sasuke," he smirked.
Naruto rolled his eyes playfully. "Tch, whatever, have a good night Sasuke."
Sasuke began to exit the door but glanced over his shoulder one last time, a small genuine smile in place. "See ya tomorrow Kurama."
With the door closed and the raven out of sight, Naruto releases a heavy breath. How could he forget how gorgeous Sasuke's smile was? After filing the sight away in his mind for forever he whispers to himself, "see you tomorrow teme."