"I need to ask you something." Tayuya said into the impenetrable darkness. "Did you sleep with Temari?" My breath caught in my throat, oh bullocks.
~o~
"What?" I laughed awkwardly, leaning down to pick up the candle I had fumbled with. "Of course I slept with Temari, where else was she going to sleep? On the floor?" Why would Tayuya be asking me this? Did Temari say something to her when they left to go to the liquor store?
Maybe her plan all along was to use me to try and make Tayuya jealous, but I shouldn't be surprised. What did I honestly expect? It's Temari... That thought left a hole in my chest that flooded my subconscious with questions I couldn't answer.
"I saw you two, don't fucking lie to me, Ino!" Tayuya growled and I could hear the desperation in her voice and the in faint outline of her body.
"You 'saw' us?" I asked, searching for clarification as I searched for more candles. It's hard enough to find anything in my apartment with the lights on, but it's nearly impossible now. Plus, it's starting to get rather cold as well.
"This morning, I was looking for pants so I could make a couch breakfast for Sakura." A couch breakfast? What in the world is a couch breakfast? "And I figured you might have an extra pair, I didn't know Temari was here and when I walked in your room you, weren't wearing a fucking shirt."
"Wait, what exactly did you see?" I felt my cheeks lighting up, brilliant, the last thing I needed was for Tayuya to see me more or less naked.
"I saw you!" Tayuya's hands started to work in the air, trying desperately to explain something she couldn't seem to form into words as she hissed into the quiet darkness. "You were fuckin', I don't know, you were curled up with Temari and I'm pretty sure you weren't wearing a fucking shirt. So, I just need to know, did you fuck Temari? Because if Sakura finds out, she is going to freak out, and I would just really like a little fucking warning so I can hide, or at least put on a set of chain mail or... somethin'!
"I don't know man, just please. Can you stop lying to me, and just tell me? Did you fuck Temari?" That's a really crude way to put it. I curled up my nose and set the three looted candles on the counter top.
"No, I did not..." there has to be a better way to put this. "Fuck Temari." I felt an extreme compulsion to take the bar of soap by the tap and scrub my tongue with it. Why does she have to be so obscene with the way she words everything?
"Did she fuck you?" Tayuya asked, not letting the subject drop until she was sure she had every angle covered.
"No! For goodness sake, Tayuya! I did not have sex with Temari, okay?" I huffed, snapping off the answer a little louder than I had intended. I hope no one is standing outside the bathroom listening to us right now. This day just needs to end, it's like a never ending assault of lets screw up Ino's life and remove from her the little bit of sanity she's been so desperately clinging to, day.
"So, you just decided it was comfier to sleep nude? Even with someone else in your bed? I mean, don't get me wrong, it is; but there is a time and place for that stuff." I glowered at the insufferable redhead.
"If you really must know, and apparently you really, really must know; I did not have sex with Temari," Tayuya made a noise as if to protest my repeating something she already knew and I cut her off. "Listen to me. Yes, I slept with her, but we did not have sex. Do you understand that?" I could see her nodding in the dark, "good.
"We did fool around, a little. But it never went below the belt, Temari stopped it before anything serious happened." The muscles throughout my body tensed with the amount of stress admitting that had stirred up. Tayuya took her sweet time processing what I had told her until she lined up her next series of questions.
"Well, now I know you're lying to me." She grumbled and I felt my blood boil over like a volcano on the brim of bursting.
"What? Why? I am not lying, Tayuya! Why would I lie about something like that?"
"Because Temari doesn't stop. It's just... it's not something she does." Tayuya shifted uncomfortably, working through something before she figured out how to continue explaining. "When Temari wants something, she doesn't stop until she gets it. If she wanted you, and if you two did what you say you did, it wouldn't be fucking possible to stop her. And there's no way in hell she would do it voluntarily." Tayuya turned and paused before opening the door.
"I won't tell her, Sakura, that is. I think you should get the fuck away from Temari, don't let her use you then throw you away after you get attached. I know her world is addicting, and it's easy to get sucked in... but...
"Don't make the same mistake I did, you can't change her, Ino." With that, she opened the bathroom door and left, leaving me in the dark and silence to do what I would with her advice.
I wasn't lying.
~o~
The power didn't come back the hour after my talk with Tayuya, or the hour after that and the candles slowly burned down, sitting on the living room table. Sakura sat on the couch, fidgeting as she read her textbook for the third time today. Tayuya looks sound asleep, one leg hanging off the couch, her head on Sakura's lap, oblivious to the hungry stare Temari has transfixed upon her.
I wasn't lying when I told her Temari was the one who stopped it last night. Maybe the reason it didn't make sense to Tayuya is because Temari wants her, she's always wanted her, so she never had a reason to stop when it was Tayuya. Which means I mean nothing, less than nothing, and I'm just a stand in until she can get her lead actress back.
It shouldn't hurt this much, to know that, to realize I'm losing to that stupid Harpie again. If Temari wins, Saku would be rid of Tayuya. But again, what would be the point!
I snapped my pencil in frustration and Saku jumped, wondering what had happened as I mumbled an apology and got a new one. Temari yawned and shivered from where she was sitting, by now the apartment is starting to feel like outside, except without the wind and snow. I am wearing Temari's jacket, and Saku and Tayuya are using the blanket they used last night.
I just don't see a point, Saku is happy with Tayuya, even if I have no idea why. So what would breaking them up using Temari accomplish? It would hurt Saku, and there's no guarantee this time would be any different than last time. She has always seen me as a friend, or a sister, I cringed at the second title.
Alright, so what do I do? Can I continue my odd arrangement with Temari knowing what she wants as an ideal outcome? Maybe that would be for the best, if I truly want to forget my feelings.
Tayuya yawned and rolled so she was facing Saku's stomach rather than Temari and I. Absently, while still skimming the text on the pages in front of her, Saku pulled the blanket that had slipped, up so Tayuya was covered again. Then she smiled, brushing a strand of hair away from Tayuya's face, forgetting the book she had been so absorbed in.
I want that, I want how easily it comes to them.
~o~
Temari turned her back when I reached down to pull off my shirt to change for bed. Since Tayuya was already asleep on top of Saku, the sleeping arrangements stayed the same.
I scowled and pulled the fabric up, feeling my hair hit my back once it was loose. The chilly air caused me to shiver as I reached for the old t-shirt I wear to bed. I know she is trying to be considerate, by looking away, but at the moment I find it more of an insult. She had no qualms staring at the Harpie like she was a juicy steak, even with Sakura sitting right there. Not that she noticed, she was too far gone in her Biology text.
"Why?" I asked, unable to explain the intentions behind the question any cleared than that.
"Why, what?" Temari asked, her back still to me, waiting for some sort of cue that I was done and decent. I plopped down on my bed, the smooth fabric has an icy edge to it, sending a chill up my legs. Maybe I should have put on a sweater for bed tonight.
"Why did you stop it last night?" I demanded. Temari checked to make sure I was indeed done, and turned so she wasn't talking to a wall anymore.
"Look, Ino, I'm not completely sober, you know I finished what was left out. I really don't think now is the best time to talk about this."
"Alcohol doesn't make you do things you wouldn't normally do, it just lowers your inhibitions to stop or filter what you do or say." Way to sound like a textbook, I really have studied way too much today.
Temari sighed, "Ino, we can talk about this another time, alright?" She moved as if to pull the sheets back.
"No! We are going to talk about this now! Just tell me why!" The wind outside howled, and I could see the outline of Temari's expression.
"Why do you have to know right now? We can talk tomorrow morning if you simply can't wait!" I almost agreed, morning isn't that far away. No, I need to know now, what is it that keeps causing people to find me so unattractive, so unappealing? I'll lose my nerve if I wait till morning.
"Tayuya saw us," Temari paused, suddenly interested in what I was saying. "This morning, she was looking for pants, or something, I wasn't really listening. Anyways, she snuck in to see if she could borrow a pair and she saw us."
"I don't see how that is connected to why you want to know why I didn't ravage you with the fury of seven suns last night." The fury of... I could feel my face lighting up, either from embarrassment or the primal way she put it, I'm not too sure which. Probably a mixture of both.
"B-because," I cleared my throat and Temari smiled, again moving to slip under the covers. I watched her, solidifying my resolve before continuing, "she said once you have your mind set on something, it's impossible to make you stop."
"She said that?" Temari asked.
"Yes, that's what she said." I confirmed. Waiting as Temari rolled onto her back and stared up at the ceiling, I shifted in my cross-legged position.
"So you want to know why I stopped," she hiccoughed, rubbing the arch between her eyes. "God I hate lying down after a couple drinks. So you want to know why I stopped, if it should be impossible to make me, let alone me stop it myself?" Well, it sounds stupid when you say it.
"You probably think it's because you aren't attractive enough, or something stupid like that, right? Just out of curiosity, does that mirror of yours show your reflection or someone else?" She laughed and closed her eyes, like it was all some sort of ironic joke to her.
"Ino, the reason why I stopped is because you're a virgin-" I made an affronted noise but Temari ignored me, "and the first time you make love to someone should be with someone you love. Not with the school whore. I couldn't take something like that away from you, well I could, but I won't."
"But I thought you said sex was just a physical act?" I argued, how does she know I'm a virgin? Did Saku tell her? But Saku has never asked me if I was, so she might not even know the answer to that question.
"Sex is." She paused with her mouth half open. "Sex is also completely different from making love to someone, trust me Ino, you want to wait for that special person. Don't look at me like that, you will find her, and when you do you will be overjoyed you waited.
"I can't take that from you, I would hate myself. And Tayuya is right, you can't change my mind once it's set on something."
I found myself tracing the design on my sheets, contemplating everything she had told me. How can she be so sure, that there really is someone out there for me?
"How do you know there's someone for me?" I asked, unable to shake the doubt.
"Because," she paused, looking bashful yet serious at the same time. "I believe everyone has more than one shiny apple. Everyone has more than one soul mate, how could we not? Let's say my soul mate, assuming there is only one, got into a freak car accident tomorrow? Would that mean that I will die alone and miserable without ever knowing why?"
"That's a really depressing idea..." I murmured, feeling the ridges on a row of stitching.
"Or, say you ended up moving across the country for a reason you can't control, and you end up marrying someone there. Does that mean if you hadn't moved you would have never found true love? That you had to fly those thousands of miles to find that one person?
"I don't think that's true, I think everyone has more than one perfect person. Right now, I have let's say two perfect people for me. But what happens if, in a few years, I change. If something were to happen to me, and I became a completely different person? Would they still be my soul mate?
"If they didn't change at all, couldn't that possibly make us no longer compatible? I think that's what happens to some marriages. They start off perfect together, and over time they change and grow in different ways, they grow apart. It's part of life, if you stop growing and learning, what's the point?
"That's why, I believe, that everyone has more than one shiny apple out there, and I also believe that, that list changes all the time. There isn't just one person for everyone, there can't be..." She whispered the last part and we fell into silence for a while before she continued.
"Maybe Sakura is your soul mate, or at one point she was. But, maybe you have both changed so much that you no longer are. I'm not saying Tayuya is meant to be with her, and you aren't. I'm just... what I'm trying to say, and failing miserably at, is that you don't have to be alone. It doesn't have to be her or no one. There are others out there, Ino. You're seventeen, you have your whole life ahead of you."
I checked the clock sitting on my dresser, four past twelve.
"Actually, as of four minutes ago, I'm eighteen."
"Oh, happy birthday." Temari said, "I got you something, but you will have to wait for it because I don't have it on me." I rolled my eyes are her, even if she probably can't see it in the dark.
"You don't have to get me anything." I rolled back the sheets and slipped underneath, laying down on my side so I could still see Temari.
"Good, because I didn't." She smiled, "but I will, no worries, Kitten." We relapsed back into silence as I worked through her concept of love and the one we are suppose to be with.
"Hey, Temari." I whispered, and she made an annoyed noise, her eyes already shut with sleep. Temari yawned and blinked, shifting slightly.
"Yeah, what?" She mumbled, groggy.
"I don't think you're a whore."
"Thanks, Kitten." I fell asleep feeling the faintest tingle of the warmth emanating off her body, but too scared to move any closer.
-Sakura-
Finally, I was going to go insane if I was stuck in that apartment any longer! I kicked at the snow looming up the sides of the ploughed walkway, sending a mist up into the air.
"Oi! Watch it!" Tay grumbled and wiped the melting fluff off of her face with her free hand, the second intertwined with mine as we walked to school. I smiled at her and received a glower in reply. Tay will cheer up soon, she's just upset it wasn't another snow day and that I woke her up at five again.
It stopped snowing shortly after midnight last night, and the snow ploughs were able to get the streets cleared by morning. Even some of the sidewalks are already shovelled, I don't normally see this many people out at this time in the morning but it seems like everyone is happy the storm is over.
I readjusted the backpack hooked over my shoulder and kicked at the snow again. I don't think I'll ever get used to real snow, even though I've been here for half of my life now, it's just so... weird.
I haven't been able to see Anko for a while, between school work and the dance then the snow storm, I really should visit her tonight. Maybe I will take a taxi over after Ino's birthday party, it gets dark so early now, and Tay can't ride her motorcycle. Actually, that could be another reason she's upset, she never did like to walk in the morning.
"What do you think we should do for Ino's birthday?" I asked, slipping on a patch of ice and almost tripping into the snowbank.
"When's her birthday?" Tay yawned and rubbed at her eyes.
"Today." I replied as we turned into the school parking lot. I ducked just in time to avoid being hit by a wayward snowball that narrowly missed hitting Tay as well.
"Don't you think you should have planned a head by, I don't know, more than a couple fucking hours?" She commented sarcastically, already scouting out where the snowball had come from in case she had to retaliate. I tugged on her hand to keep her attention long enough to finish the conversation.
"Probably, but every time I started to think about it, I also started to think about all the other things I needed to do and ended up just putting it off. Do you think we should just invite everyone over to our apartment and buy a cake or something?" I suggested as Tay ducked in front of me to pull open the door.
"You want to coup everyone up in a tiny apartment after yesterday?" She smirked and waited for me to open my locker, luckily it's only a skip and a hop away from the back entrance. The school is already packed, we are normally here when it's still deserted. Today we made it here fifteen minutes before class, I really don't like cutting it this close.
But after we woke up at Ino's, Tay made breakfast and left a note with two covered plates for Ino and Temari and then we walked back home. We both had to shower, and I had to gather up all of my homework and make sure I had everything done. Then we had to go down to the lobby and check in with Tsunade who was ready to kill us for disappearing for almost two days, or because we woke her up so early, Tay has money on the second reason.
So by the time everything was done, it was already almost eight.
"I guess not," I clicked the lock shut and grabbed the two texts I would need before turning to relink my hand with Tay's. She let out another loud yawn and shook her head, like the motion would somehow clear out the sleep rather than simply making her dizzy.
"What do you suggest then?" I asked, trying to keep the laugh out of my voice when, predictably, she was a little off balance.
"Well, for my last birthday I went to the strip club..." She checked quickly to see how I took the suggestion before offering another idea. No, I don't think Ino would appreciate that in the slightest.
"Doesn't she like to dance? Why don't we go dancing?" Actually, that isn't a half bad idea. I could practically see the perked ears and slightly wagging tail as Tay waited to see what I thought of the second suggestion.
"Well, she does love to dance. Ino might actually love that, but aren't all of the clubs in town nineteen and older?" (1) So unless she can randomly pull fake ID's out for everyone, I highly doubt we will be able to go.
"There's actually one club that has a teens night, well two teen nights, Thursday and Friday." Tay said, running her thumb around the outside of her lock as she made quick work of the code.
"Oh! Today is Friday, that's perfect!" I was so busy working out the remaining details I almost missed the snicker behind the barely contained laughter that Tay was working so hard to hide.
"You can be so daft sometimes for someone so fucking smart." I rolled my eyes at her as the warning bell rang. With a quick kiss good-bye, and exchanged I love yous, we went our separate ways to homeroom.
~o~
The remainder of the day passed in a blur. I spent just as much time in class, as I spent being dragged out of it for the Christmas dance. At lunch, Ino didn't say much and Emi seemed oblivious to it being a special day at all.
I want to yell out happy birthday and try to make my bubbly blonde friend feel better, she's been so depressed lately, but Tay keeps giving me the look. The look that says don't do it, it's suppose to be a surprise! Or don't do it or there will be consequences.
I managed to get a hold of most of Ino's friends, I think I did anyways. In the least I managed to tell Emi without alerting Ino, and let's face it, Emi will do a much better job at spreading the news to those who need to know than I will.
Tay did her part as well, she called ahead to confirm and even offered to skip the afternoon to go present hunting. I think that was more for her benefit than Ino's, but I'm not going to call her on it, it's the thought that counts. In the end I won anyways, we agreed... settled? Well, Tay grunted a little friendlier when I suggested that instead of skipping school, that I invite Ino over and while she's there Tay goes and gets the present we agreed on.
Exams are getting so close I can smell them, seriously though there's a storage room that they have all the boxes in and I'm pretty sure that hallway smells more strongly of paper and ink.
It's last period and I am sitting, rapping my fingers against the desktop staring at the clock above the teachers head. Chemistry has been so boring lately, just a constant loop of material we have already covered – and I have already studied, multiple times. It's probably the class that worries me the least.
The hand moved one step closer to freedom and I felt my stomach clench. Maybe I should just leave a few minutes early and make up some excuse about needing to prep something for the dance? It's less than a week away now and I really do have so much left to finish. The only thing that's solid is our band, and that's thanks to Tay.
But, that's beside the point, I need to stay on topic! I need to make sure I can catch Ino before she takes off again.
The final bell rang before I could finish my inner debate, and I rushed out the door, barely squeezing through the normal rush crowd.
"Sakura!" I cringed and debated skipping around the corner, pretending I didn't hear the call. It was already too late, I could heard the pounding of sneakers come to a halt behind me. Putting on my best fake – patient – smile, I turned to see who it was that needed my attention this time. I want to go back to the day where no one would be caught dead talking to me, life was so much simpler.
Now everyone on the student council, dance comity, even just random classmates talk to me. I blame Tay, well Ino. Mostly Ino, she's the one who is the social butterfly spreading the rumour that I'm not a brain-eating monster.
"Yes?" I asked, turning to look straight into baby blue eyes and blonde hair. Unfortunately, not the one I was hoping to run into. Naruto leaned back, scratching the back of his head as his second hand fished into his jean pocket. Today he is wearing a blue sweater with a single red line across the chest, and of course his usual care-free smile that is uniquely his.
"Well, I was just wondering, since it's Ino's birthday and all, if I could go to the party?" He beamed, letting out a light, nervous chuckle. "You see, I kinda got this crush on her, and I was hoping to make my move tonight but Emi-" I should have known. How many people has she told? Maybe using her wasn't such a good idea.
"That's fine, Naruto. It's not like I can stop you from going." We are going to a public place after all.
The energetic blonde blinked, tilting forward on his heels. "But I heard from Sasuke, who heard from Kiba, who heard from Hinata-"
"What did you hear, Naruto?" I could feel my eyebrow twitching from irritation. At this rate I'm definitely not going to run into Ino, and there will be no party.
"...that it was an invite only and there is going to be a massive bouncer at the front door. So if you aren't on the list, you aren't getting in." I sighed, what in the world has Emi been telling people. I told her a few people that Ino likes... not the entire school, with apparently, a bouncer now too.
"Well, there isn't. You can go if you want to, I'm sure Ino would be happy to see you." I replied, already turning to leave as I spotted Emi in the sea of students. Why isn't Emi with Ino? They have their last two classes together! Oh crap, what if Ino is already gone.
"I have to go, Naruto. I'll see you later!" I called, pushing past peer after peer as I tried to catch up to the fading brunette.
It didn't seem to matter how quickly the sea of students parted around me, the closer I got the farther away she seemed. As I turned the corner into the front hallway, I realized I couldn't see Emi anymore. She had simply disappeared.
I spun in place, earning a few glares and angry growls but out of the four ways she could have gone, I couldn't spot her down any. I did however, spot Tay and Temari walk out of their math class, chatting and looking as if they were being civil? I started to take a step in their direction, fighting down the surge of jealousy that was rising in my chest. They are probably just talking about the project due on Monday.
"Saku!" A bell tone call came from behind me and I felt a pair of arms slide around my neck, found Ino.
"Hey, birthday girl!" I greeted, blushing as her hands dipped down, finger tips just barely above my breasts. I cleared my throat and shifted, uncomfortable, the heat from her body radiating against mine as I felt her chest against my back.
"Did you get me a present?" Ino cooed.
"Hey... Barbie, Sakura?" Tay walked up, followed closely by Temari, with a question in her eyes. Temari wore a triumphant smirk and I just wanted to become invisible.
"Hello, Harpie!" Ino smiled, still a ball of energy that refused to release her hold on me. Tay narrowed her eyes at Ino, the anger that was rising was as apparent as her hair was red.
"There you are, Ino!" Emi came into sight from seemingly nowhere, a happy smile. I let out a hefty sigh, well my plan of kidnapping Ino so Tay could go and get her birthday present has failed miserably. I gave Tay an apologetic smile and she scowled.
"I'll see you at home, going to run that errand." She muttered, thoroughly annoyed.
"Love-" I called after her back that was already storming down the hallway. "...you," came out in a whisper.
"What bit her in the bum?" Emi asked, shrugged as if it didn't matter. "Oh well, Tayuya does have an uncontrollable temper."
"No she doesn't!" I defended, feeling Ino's hold on me loosen and drop. Emi raised an eyebrow and looked at Ino, like she was passing on a silent message. "Anyways, I was wondering if you wanted to come over for cake and presents, Ino?" I asked, playing my part. Emi almost ruined it, looking puzzled before Temari elbowed her in the ribs to shut up.
I never thought I'd be grateful to Temari. Or more importantly, how does she even know about tonight? I wonder if Tay told her, it doesn't make sense that they would talk about Ino's birthday plans though.
"I can't, I have to meet with someone..." Ino blushed slightly.
"Oh com'on! It's your birthday, and a Friday! Leave all the work for tomorrow or the next day!" Emi coaxed.
"I'll call you later, okay? We'll do something!" Ino assured Emi and I already turning to leave, I noticed she already had her bag packed and on her shoulder, which I hadn't before. I just nodded, trying to figure out a back-up plan when Temari spoke up, already walking after her.
"Do you need a ride?" She asked, to my surprise Ino smiled at her and nodded. Earning an equally friendly smile in return as they fell into chatting while walking out the door.
What in the world has gotten into everyone today?
"I guess that leaves you and I to prepare for the party?" Emi assumed, backing me into a corner I doubt very much I can talk my way out of. Where is Tay when I need her to scare off the paper-bag princess? (2)
I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket and rushed to wrench it free and flip it open.
Don't worry, I'll get Cinderella to the ball on time – Temari.
I'll never understand what just happened. Giving into defeat, I changed direction and started for my locker, Emi in tow and already letting her tongue loose.
-Ino-
I slipped inside of Temari's car, breathing in the familiar scent, and kicking aside the usual junk on the floor. I never thought I'd be happy to smell dirty sneakers and cigarette smoke, but after the act in the hallway, I'm just happy to be away from Saku. What was I thinking? Clinging on to her like that?
It's not a wonder Tayuya was upset, but... I enjoyed it. I enjoyed seeing how angry she was when I was touching Saku, it was... liberating. It was a stupid, stupid thing to do, but it felt so good to feel like I had won for once; if only just a little bit.
Saku became so upset when Emi commented on Tayuya's temper, I could feel the muscles in her shoulders tense up.
"Where to?" Temari asked, turning the key in the ignition. I looked over, snapped out of my train of thought and started to wonder: what is it I'm doing with you?
"The courthouse." I answered, leaning back in the chair, thankful that Temari didn't question me further. Simply nodding and revving the car to life as we left the school parking lot.
We sat in silence, as was the usual trend whenever Temari or I would go anywhere. I wouldn't call it an awkward silence, more like a comfortable one. It's easy... being around her, I don't know why, it's not something I can explain. It's like I don't have to try, I don't feel any pressure to be the bubbly, blonde, bobble-head everyone thinks I am.
I don't have to try and memorize people's names, or be up to date on what's going on just so I can fit in. I don't have to smile or be the source of comfort, or the sounding board for someone's complaints. I can just sit here, in silence and just... I don't know, I can't explain it. I can just, sit here... without the mask everyone expects me to wear.
Chancing a look over at the driver of my ride, I smiled when I noticed Temari was lip-syncing silently to the song on the radio. Dork, I thought, looking back out the window.
"You can sing if you want to." I muttered, becoming suddenly interested in a passing sign by the side of the road. "I mean, you don't have to hold it in on account of me being in the car." Temari let out a soft laugh.
"I'm a really bad singer, Kitten. I have the voice of a dying cat."
"Oh really?" (3)I bit my lip, "well I sound like a beached whale, so if you want to sing then just sing." Temari's hands slid around the wheel as we turned a corner, barely missing the green light as we rolled to a stop to wait for the go ahead.
"How about, we both sing and whichever one of us gets more dirty looks from people, wins?" Temari suggested, already turning up the dial on the radio. I smiled as the next song started.
"You have yourself a deal." I smiled, readying myself for the first set of lyrics.
-Tayuya-
Stupid fucking snow and not being able to ride my bike. Fuck snow, fuck walking! Fuck walking in god damn fucking snow! I let out an audible growl and shook my pants leg free of white irritants once again.
Why was I the one sent on the trip to get Ino's birthday present? I totally could have babysat her for a few hours, how hard could it be? Just put a bell around her neck and lock the front door.
My phone buzzed against my hand in my coat pocket, what did Sakura forget to tell me to get now?
Temari kidnapped Ino, she said she would bring her to the ball? I have Emi following me, come home soon!
I giggled, surprising myself at the noise and punched in my reply. "Just," I bit my tongue and redirected my path having veered off while staring at the small keys. "Tell her... to... piss off..." There, I fixed her problem.
Well, now that the tables have been turned, I can take my time. I was worried about her being a lone with Ino after that display earlier, it's not that I don't trust her... I'm really trying. It's just, Ino is such an obvious bitch, I don't see how Sakura misses it. Oh well, Emi'll teach Pinkie to send me out present shopping. What did she say she wanted me to get again? Ahh fuck, think!
Oh, right. She wanted me to pick up one of everything sweet in the bakery by the mall. I know there was a reason, I really should have listened.
It didn't take long before I was pulling open the front door to the bakery, the smell of pastries washing over my senses. The walls are painted in a soft beige, with hand painted cupcakes and cookies. The lobby has a tiled floor, with the see-through showcase a few steps from the door.
"Tayuya, hello dear. I didn't expect to see you here." The hair on the back of my neck stood on end, why the fuck would she be here? I looked up to see my mother holding a white box, apparently having just checked out. She smiled her fake smile that she uses when others are watching and attempted to make small talk.
"I must admit, I thought you would be dead in a ditch by now." The young man who was working the desk cleared his throat and hobbled into the back room, mumbling something about checking on a cake.
"I'm not? Aw fuck, and here I was hoping to be rid of you. Either that or hell is full so they sent you up here for the time being." I smiled right back at her, already walking up to the desk to ring the bell. When he walked back out, he glanced at my mother then to me, hair net swaying as he moved. "Can I just get one of everything sweet?" I asked, copying Sakura's order, exactly.
He blinked at the odd request, "uh, what about cake and pie?"
"She didn't say," I paused to think a moment, "just give me one big slice of cake, and one of pie. Then just cookies and cupcakes n' shit I guess." He gave me a sceptic look, but moved to fill my request, grabbing a couple boxes from below his counter.
"Tayuya," why are you still here? Can't you just leave me the fuck alone? Haven't I made it clear I do not want fucking to see you, ever?
"What?" I snapped, determined to be as rude as possible. Again, the young man behind the counter stepped into the back room after setting a couple items from the show cases into the boxes.
It took me a moment to realize she was thinking before speaking, which if you know my mother, is something she never does. "How are you?"
"What the fuck do you care?" I growled, feeling guilty almost instantly. Damn you Sakura! Damn you and your stupid fucking be nice to people bullshit, I just want to hate her! "I'm fine," I added reluctantly.
"That's good..." She set down her box on top of the counter, great, she's planning on staying for a while. "Where are you staying?"
I glowered but answered out of obligation to the pink haired pain in the ass in my head. "With my girlfriend." There, let's see her be civil now!
"Are you still with the same one?" She asked, failing to come up with the right name. The question struck a nerve and I twitched, grinding my teeth together. The door to the back room opened, the man behind the door took one look and quickly ducked back inside, sensing the impending fight probably. He needs to grow some fucking balls so I can get out of here!
"Yes, Mother; her name is Sakura." I slammed my hand on the bell in sheer irritation and heard a loud crash. Oh com'on dude! Your job is not that hard, just put the fucking cupcakes in the box so I can leave.
My mom glanced at the door, looking ready to leave before she let out an exasperated sigh. "I'm sorry, Tayuya." I snorted in reply, no you aren't, if you were you would have at least made sure I was alive. "Don't do that! I am trying here!
"Now, I know you're mad."
"Really? What clued you into that one?" The door burst open suddenly and two full boxes were placed onto the counter beside the cash register, shaking fingers already punching in the keys to ring up my total.
He squeaked out the price and I handed him the money Sakura had given me, as well as some of my own before grabbing the boxes and heading for the door. I had to press the door open with my shoulder and walk through backwards, but I managed to make it out of the stuffy bakery with my mother following closely behind.
"How are you getting home?" She asked, doubling her stride to catch up. I have to hand it to her, I don't think I've ever seen her move this fast for anyone before. Unless it involved a bonus and dropping her pants.
"Walking." Came my curt reply, side-stepping a patch of ice. The mall is teeming with people doing their Christmas shopping, everywhere there's people walking around with full bags.
"Can I give you a ride?" She asked, I spotted her Volvo parked ahead of us, gleaming in the afternoon sun.
"No." I answered, prepping to cross the road as soon as the light turned.
"Your Grandfather asked about you, he was wondering if you were coming to visit, for Christmas." Just before I could set my foot down and walk away, the question hit me. My Grandfather has always been my favourite relative, I used to spend the holidays sitting on his knee listening to all of his old stories.
A few years ago he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, the last time I saw him was for Easter and he didn't know who I was. That bitch! She's using him to get to me, why can't she just leave me alone.
"Please, Tayuya. It would mean the world to him if you came, you missed Thanksgiving."
"Fuck you! Why are you doing this!" I demanded, steadying the teetering boxes. She didn't reply, just watched me like everyone else was who walked by. I took a deep breath, I can at least find out when it is.
"We are going to visit him for a few days, we were going to leave tonight. I bought you a ticket, if you want to go. It's just for the weekend." She continued, looking at me half pleading. If it was my Father's, Father she wouldn't care.
I need to talk to Sakura, I'm sure she will tell me to go but I can't just take off.
"What time?" I asked and heard her let out a deep sigh.
"We are leaving after dinner, I can pick you up at eight." I will miss Ino's birthday, not that she really wants me there anyways, and Sakura would have to walk home in the dark, alone.
"Fine, but I need you to do one thing."
-Sakura-
"What's the answer to number twenty-two B?" Emi asked, leaning over the coffee table in my living room to look at the answer before I could reply.
"Thirty-five," I mumbled. Why did she follow me home? And why didn't I just take Tay's advice and ask her to leave? I feel like I'm babysitting for Ino. Emi jotted down the answer and started to ask the answer to the next question on her list.
Rolling my eyes, I simply handed her my notebook. If she wants to cheat instead of learning the material then so be it, it's not my grade on the line with exams only a week away.
"I couldn't," she started to protest before taking the book. "Well, I guess I could use it as a reference..." The perky brunette grabbed the book out of my hand and instantly started to copy down answers, she even used the tip of her finger to keep her place as she looked back and forth.
Please come home soon Tay, Emi is scared shit-less of you, she would leave the second you walked through the door. I stared plaintively at our front door, trying to figure out how long it would take before she came home.
Soon, Tay will walk through that door with Ino's present, grumbling about the snow and sending her shoes flying. She'll probably dump the boxes on the counter and instantly collapse onto the bean bag chair, running her mouth like it was the most aggravating thing she could have possibly done.
I smiled, practically hearing her rant as it ran through my head. Oh well, I was expecting Ino to come over this afternoon, not Emi. If I had known Ino would run off, I would have gone with her, I'll just have to make it up to her somehow.
I wonder what Ino had to do that was so important anyways.
-Ino-
"Did you want me to wait in the car?" Temari asked, turning off the engine. I leaned over the dash, looking up the front steps of the old courthouse. At the stop of the steps stand two, towering, wooden doors. Two pillars standing on either side, red-brown bricks covering the walls.
I gnawed on my bottom lip, trying to work up my courage before going inside. I can do this, well I don't technically have to do anything, I'm just suppose to show up. I wonder if Deidara made it in time, he said he was going to try and be here. But with exams this close, he wasn't sure if he could leave his post for a couple days.
"...Or I could come inside if you'd prefer?" Temari continued, fishing around in the dark, completely at a loss.
I gave her a shaky smile, nodding, not trusting my voice. "Alright then." She opened her door and I took one final, steadying breath before following.
~o~
"Miss Yamanaka, it's so good to see you again." I tilted my head, trying to figure out who had greeted me. An older man stood in front of me, stepping to the side so I could walk through a second set of doors after entering the courthouse. I smiled and returned the greeting, following him down the main hallway. "My, you've grown so much since I last saw you! You are really starting to resemble your father."
"It's nice to see you too..." Uh, shoot, perfect time to completely blank on his name. I know he was my fathers lawyer and legal consultant, what was his name? Come on, Ino, think!
I could hear Temari's footsteps as she followed behind me, staying silent throughout the exchange. I wonder if this is one of those, you show me yours I'll show you mine, moments? She did introduce me to her life, even if it was confusing and unrequested.
"I assume you are up to date?" The lawyer asked, turning his head slightly as he walked, his thinning hair shifting. I would say he haa a morning shadow, if it wasn't so perfectly groomed, leaving him with a short layer of fuzz on his jawline. He smiled, noticing something. "It's not important, I will be sure to update you as we go."
I nodded and three short steps later, the man whose name I should remember, opened a side door; 'Conference Room' written on a name plate stamped to the door.
At the end of the table sat an older man, probably in his sixties, in a judges decor. Flowing black robes ran down with a white collar and cuffs. He smiled, motioning for us to sit opposite to a nasty looking woman in a navy blue pantsuit.
The room took my breath away, it had a charm to it very much like the charm of the theatre Temari had brought me to, but at the same time the exact opposite. The table in the centre is polished dark, brown-red wood with silver details. The walls are a light brown, with a large shuttered window sitting behind the judge.
As I gawked, I felt Temari gently brush my hand and looked around to see that everyone was staring. The lawyer I had followed looks amused, happy even, the same as the judge who is chuckling silently. The woman, however, looks nothing short of a cat who had her tail stepped on.
Blushing, I mumbled an apology and sat down in my designated spot, Temari looked uncertain at first but then sat down next to me.
"It seems you brought an extra," the woman across the table stated, holding back the annoyance from her words, but not from her expression. She has her light brown hair tied back so tight it actually looks painful. I wonder how she managed to do that actually.
"Miss Yamanaka brought her, I assumed there is a reason and did not see a reason to question it." What's-his-name replied, opening his briefcase and pulling out a folder. He set a vanilla folder onto the table that I'm still too scared to touch, and flipped through the pages within.
I started to gnaw on my lip again, feeling sweat collect on my palms, where's Deidara? Maybe he couldn't make it after all.
"Well, I think it's only right if we know the reason... considering the nature of this case." She raised a finely plucked eyebrow, turning to Temari who was sitting completely relaxed beside me.
"Temari Hogosha," (4)she replied, smirking at the scowl fixed on her. Well at least one of us can relax, not that I can blame her, she has no idea what's going on, not that I'm filled in that much more.
"And your purpose at this closed meeting is?" The female lawyer asked, the one by my side smiled and replied for us. I don't know what her purpose here is, I don't even know why she drove me here! She's my... friend, who for some reason I feel like I can trust. And she's... I don't know, Temari is Temari. I doubt that reason I can't even explain to myself will help here.
"I should be asking what the purpose of you wasting the honourable judge Briggs time is? What does the identity of my clients companion have to do with the case at hand?" He smiled brightly, the ball of his pen a breath away from leaving a trail of ink all over the surface of his pages.
The judge chuckled, amused at the unbreakable cheery vs. unbearable sour. "Sarutobi, I do not mind, I've been looking forward to this case for a while, why don't we let the young women answer Patrica's question." Judge Briggs folded his fingers in front of himself, wrinkles crinkling his cheeks as he fixed Temari and I with a grandfatherly look.
"Young Lady, what is your purpose in my courtroom?" Temari paused, feeling the weight of the judges look on her, and trying to figure out the answer to that herself.
"Honestly, Sir, I'm not sure what my purpose is around Ino most of the time." I felt her hand on mine, gently nudging her fingers between mine to give a reassuring squeeze. "But, while I'm figuring that out, the one thing I do know is that she wanted me here, so there's nothing you can do to make me leave."
"Temari...?" I whispered before I could stop myself, looking at her and feeling a warmth radiating off her.
She didn't seem to hear me, nor did anyone else in the room.
The judge chuckled, "I don't know what my purpose is around my wife most of the time either, dear."
"Wait... but we're not-" I started to protest quietly, still lost in my trance of confusion. What in the world did Temari mean by that?
"I'll allow Miss Hogosha to stay. Moving on, are you both ready, Sarutobi, Patrica?" Mr. Briggs asked, looking to the two silent lawyers, they both nodded their consent. The judge opened the case file in front of his hands, leafing through it as he pulled out a pair of reading glasses.
"Now, if I am to understand, Miss Yamanaka is here about her inheritance from her biological father, Inoichi Yamanaka. Patrica you may state your case first." Patrica stood up, brushing out the wrinkles that had formed on her pantsuit, folding her hands against her stomach as she began. I felt Temari's hand against mine and was thankful for the silent support, even as it left a confusion filled shiver.
"Thank you, Judge Briggs, as you may know, I don't believe Ino in entitled to, nor is old enough for, the inheritance that is being discussed today.
"When Inoichi died, he owned eighty percent of the largest oil company in the country, located just outside of Suna. Over the past fourteen years, while Ino was in the states custody, and under the supervision of her guardian, Deidara Susharo, who was denied his treaty to adopt Miss Yamanaka; the company has grown substantially. With the growth, and connections that have been made, the shares Mr. Yamanaka owned now make up only fifty-one percent. Still leaving him as the owner of the majority of the company, with the power to sway any vote of decision the company would make. This is, of course, if he were still alive, or if his shares were given to his daughter, Ino Yamanaka."
"Currently that would supply Ino Yamanaka with four-hundred and fifty-two million dollars at the age of eighteen. Because of the nature of this company, the amount of power she would gain and the amount of money we are discussing releasing into her custody, I do not feel she is mature enough to handle such a responsibility.
"I would also, at this time, like to bring to light that most heirs of similar fortunes, are raised and groomed for the task of running their companies. Because of the unfortunate accident that resulted in the death of Inoichi Yamanaka, as well as the states poor decision to send her into state monitored care due to lack of blood relatives; Ino has been deprived of such an upbringing.
"It could be argued that, given time, Ino could be groomed into a suitable heir and be given her inheritance at such a time. However, with the growth the company is experiencing, by that time, using the current rate the company is expanding at, she would no longer own more than fifty percent of the company and would no longer have any say in the proceedings.
"At that point in time the other share holders could buy out her portion of the company and leave Miss Yamanaka a very wealthy woman. However, the cash value would also be exponentially less so than if she were to be given control at this time.
"In conclusion, for these reasons I would like to propose the court waits until she is mature enough to handle such a responsibility, or that we mandate Miss Yamanaka to sell her portion of the company immediately. An executive position within the largest oil company in the country is no place for a publicly educated, eighteen year old, girl." I twitched at the subtle insult.
"Thank you." Patrica tilted her head to the judge as he dismissed her.
"A very compelling argument, Patrica, thank you." Holy sugar cakes, I was not expecting... that. I feel... I don't know how I feel, I think she just tore me a new one? I think so anyways, she's right though, I don't understand anything about my fathers company. I would have no idea how to run it, or what to do.
I still feel like a grave robber, sitting here arguing about money while my father rests in the ground. I barely even remember him, I've never even see the company that we are talking about.
Sarutobi seemed to sense my distress because he leaned over, covering his mouth as he whispered to me.
"Don't worry, she's been barking the same thing for a long time, just trust me." I nodded solemnly, chancing a look at Temari who is leaning on the table, completely unreadable.
"Sarutobi, you may begin, whenever you are ready." Mr. Briggs smiled warmly, patiently awaiting the counter-argument.
"Thank you, Your Honour." Sarutobi stood, moving a paper in his folder before clearing his throat, placing one hand in the pocket of his suit, using the other to accent his words.
"While Patrica makes some very valid points, I would like to put the spotlight on one argument that cannot be disputed: It is written, in my old friend, Inoichi's, will; that his first born child would inherit everything the day of his or her eighteenth birthday should the worst happen to him. Failing that, we were to instead award the inheritance to any other children he may or may not have, and then, if failing that, the money was to be given to a group of undisclosed charities.
"Ino, has been proved to be Inoichi's daughter, the paperwork from the blood test that was requested, should be on the fourth page I handed to both of you previously." He paused while Patrica glowered at him, and Judge Briggs shuffled through his papers to find the proposed document.
"While it is unfortunate that she had to spend the majority of her life in the state's care, it would be unjust to take what it rightfully hers because of something she could not control.
"Can we, in good conscience, deny Miss Yamanaka what is rightfully hers, the only thing left of her father?
"Inoichi was my friend, when he died he was taken from us too soon, leaving behind a young daughter he never had the chance to watch grow.
"Patrica has pointed out that Ino grew up in the orphanage, we all knew that already. She told us that she did not receive the education she should have. On both counts, she is correct, it is an unfortunate truth.
"But what she did not tell you, were the things Ino has accomplished even with the odds against her. Ino survived, and while that may not seem like a big deal, sitting here in this office, let me try to impress upon you what it was like for her, growing up in Suna.
"As we are all aware, Suna is coming to the end of a civil war that has gone on for far too long. In Suna, children are armed with guns and take part in gunfights in the streets. I remember one day I saw a boy, no more than eight years old, holding a gun that must have weighed almost as much as he did.
"Ino has survived a place that few orphans do not, she has worked her way through school, kept her grades up and even organized moving to Konoha with a nice place to live. If you ask me, she is far more resourceful than we are giving her credit for.
"When it comes down to it, I believe Ino has the ability to survive, and thrive in any situation we could put her into. If we are to give her, her inheritance that she is entitled to, I truly believe she will do what is best for her, as well as all of those involved. Whether that is to sell her share, or to try and learn and work herself into being one of the backbones of the company, that is her choice.
"Every time I look at her, I see the fire of Inoichi inside of her and I no longer worry. Inoichi fought everyday of his life for what he believed in, and Ino is every bit his daughter.
"In conclusion, I believe Ino is more than ready for the responsibility we are discussing settling onto her capable shoulders. And I fully believe that she is more than capable to surprise every one of us with what she can accomplish.
I blinked and realized I had tears in my eyes, quickly rubbing them away with my free hand.
"Thank you, Sarutobi." Judge Briggs motioned for the younger man to take his seat, clearing his throat as he skimmed a page in front of him before turning his attention to the table. I shifted restlessly, feeling my stomach roll over.
"After hearing both parties arguments I have come to a decision. First, I would like to say I agree with points from both sides. The inheritance is rightfully Miss Yamanaka's, there is nothing I can do to change what was written in her father's will.
"However, because of the amount, and the baggage attached I do agree with Patrica that is it too big a responsibility for an eighteen year old girl to handle, no matter whose daughter she may be.
"So, I've decided that Ino shall have access to a portion of her inheritance when she leaves today that should be more than lenient to live on. And that she will attend sessions with her lawyer and the other executives of her company to discuss selling her shares, as well as the responsibilities she would obtain if she were to decide otherwise." Patrica made a noise at this notion that Mr. Briggs instantly silenced with a raised hand.
"I cannot force her to sell, I can only offer her guidance in the matter. The fact stands that she has not been educated in the ways of running such a company, nor is she suited for such a roll. If Ino should decide to sell her shares that is her decision to make, however I also do not want her to be taken advantage of, which if why her lawyer must be present for all such discussions.
"On the other hand, if she decides she does wish to take over her fathers company, that is also her right.
"So by the power invested in me," Judge Briggs took hold of the gavel sitting centimetres away from his finger tips, wrapping his hold around the worn wood. "I bestow upon Ino Yamanaka her inheritance as mandated by the law and what was written in her father's will. May you not take your new found responsibilities lightly." He slammed down the gavel and I felt my chest clench, still stuck in an ever growing daze.
-Sakura-
Behind me the door burst open and I jumped, dropped the book I was holding with a light thud as it hit the carpet. Shit, I didn't mark my page!
"Tay-!" I squeaked, surprise painting my face as her lips were mashed against mine. I froze, hearing her ragged breathing as she pressed against me and I barely put my arms down in time so I didn't fall to the carpet.
Across from me Emi started in surprise, turning a dark red.
"Tayuya!" I tried again, what is she doing? I know she isn't shy about public affection but this is taking it a bit far, I thought; pushing her hand away from my pants line. She stopped, cheek against mine so I still couldn't see her face, her voice ragged as she spoke.
"Cavity, you should leave." Emi jerked and seemed to realize she had been addressed, stumbling and dropping her stuff as she went. The poor girl barely made it out the front door, shutting it once on her coat as I turned to my shaking red head.
"Tay?" I tried for the third time, the tremors riveting her body picking up. What in the world happened? I glanced at the counter and saw two white boxes, well she made it to the bakery, I didn't even see her drop them on the counter... or even open the door.
Again she pressed her lips against mine, her actions much rougher than normal. I felt her tongue grate against my top lip, demanding entrance and again her fingers started to my belt.
I tried to pull away from her, to look at her but couldn't seem to shake her hold as her breathing picked up.
"Tay, please," I managed to get out when she pulled away to breathe. "Talk to me, what's wrong?"
"Nothing's wrong," she replied, sitting up from her straddling position as she started on my shirt giving up on my pants. Dried tear trails are visible under fresh ones, a single drop dripping down from her chin to splash down onto her shirt. "Why the fuck would you think anything is wrong?" She laughed lightly, blinking furiously.
I placed my hand on top of hers, stopping her from pulling my shirt any higher. Tay gave up with little protest, her fingers lingering against my stomach as she stared solemnly down, her mind leagues away in a place I couldn't reach her.
I sighed and gently pulled off her hat, tossing it towards the beanbag chair and missing so it tumbled down onto the floor. Next, I moved to take off her winter coat, running my hands up her arms to work them out of the sleeves. She shivered with the sudden heat loss but didn't protest, or look at my concerned eyes.
"Hey," I said after waiting in the silence for her to take the incentive and speak. "I love you, please tell me what's going on." She sniffled, remaining silent. I let out another sigh and let myself fall back against the floor, pulling my distressed girlfriend with me.
"I ran into my Mom, she wants me to go with her to visit my Grandpa for Christmas." Besides the whole running into her mom thing, that doesn't sound so bad.
"Do you want to go?" I asked, trying to feel my way around the situation. Tay pushed herself up, letting his fingers entangle themselves in my shirt, still sitting on my hips. If this were a more appropriate time, the pressure she is putting on my waist would be... no! Concentrate!
"I'd like to see him." She murmured quietly, nails dragging over the skin on my stomach as she pushed my shirt up slightly. "I just don't know if he'll see me or not." I pinched my eyebrows together in confusion, feeling tingles run up my spine as she let her nails dance over my skin.
"What do you mean?" Did she have a falling out with him? Or maybe he's protesting her running away of sorts.
"He has Alzheimer's, last time I saw him... he didn't know who I was half of the time." I paused, piecing together the puzzle with what she had given me, coming to an easy conclusion.
"You can't just run away because something is hard, Tay. You will regret it if you don't go, I know it must be hard for you, but I think you should at least try." Tay sniffled, letting her hands come to a rest on my sides, I twitched resisting the urge to swat them away. She knows I'm ticklish there.
"I would have to leave tonight."
"Tonight? That's awfully sudden..." I replied, trying to shift away from her hands that seemed to be stuck to me like glue.
"I won't go if you don't want me to." I sighed, it's like she's going over a list of reasons not to go.
"Tay, this isn't about what I want, which for the record, is for you to be happy. This has to be your decision, I can survive a few days on my own." Maybe, no I can definitely get along a couple days without her. That's why frozen dinners were invented.
"I'm going to have to miss Ino's birthday..." She drawled out, a slight smile tilting up the corners of her lips as her fingers dug into my sides and I squirmed.
"And I'm sure you're soooo disappointed!" I laughed, her fingers poking just under my ribs as they snaked up my shirt. "S-stop!" I bucked again, twisting under her to try and get loose. She probably planned this from the start!
Her fingers ran up my sides, dragging clumsily over the fabric of my shirt as she reluctantly let it go. Tay's slithering digits slid over the underside of my arm, pulling them up so my arms were above my head. She leaned down, red, loose hair framing her look as the despairing tone turned to one of lust.
"I should be the one telling you to stop," I felt her fingers slide around my wrists, pinning them above my head, as I stared fixated on her lips hovering a fraction of an inch above mine. They moved in a tantalizing way, forming words as her tongue was only partially visible under half lidded eyes.
"With the way your grinding your hips into mine, I'd say your being a very naughty girl." She purred, leaning down to kiss me and pulling back just before the contact, amused when I followed her, fighting against the binds she had me in.
"I'm not the one who burst into the apartment and demanded our company leave." I smirked, arching my back so my hips ground against her groin again. Her lips parted in a soft moan, eyebrows knitting as her brown eyes fluttered shut. I watched the movement of her jaw, her neck... her tongue, all of it showing the slight pleasure elicited from a simple action.
Taking advantage of the temporary weakness, I lunged for her lips and caught them roughly. The pulse of my heart quickened, feeling her tongue rub against mine, I slipped an arm loose from her faltering hold.
Tay moaned again as I rubbed my knee gently between her legs and felt my core flare, her throat flexed as she pulled away from the kiss. The muscles in her neck moved with the vibration of the noise she emitted.
I licked up the side of my fixation, sucking on her pulse-point, letting my teeth tease the sensitive skin.
"I am going to be gone for three days... are you sure you can survive without me?" She panted, a desperate edge to her voice that left it at a borderline whimper.
"I was already planning on fucking you, Tay," I bit at her jawline, sliding my hand under her sweater. She let out one last throaty moan, giving up on trying to say anything more. "But once your gone, I don't know what I'm going to do for three days."
"Masturbate a lot." She taunted right before I bit her lip and we fell into the passion of the moment.
~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~o~
1 – Canada rules :3 Yay for double meanings!
2 – Children's book by Robert Munch
3 – Anyone else picture an owl going orly? No? Just me... alright then.
4 – Translate it from Japanese if you're curious :3 Temari doesn't have an actual last name, so I made one up. It's technically 'Hogo-Sha', if that helps the search. I know, I know, I could just tell you, but it has a double meaning for future plot.
Alright, to begin the after chapter conclusion I have a question for you all. I was thinking about adding a fourth POV besides Ino, Sakura and Tayuya. The options are Emi or Temari. I don't want to add both as it would reveal too much before it's time. So, what I am asking you is:
1 – Yes, add another POV, Temari/Emi.
2 – No, what is wrong with you? There are already too many POV's in this story!
3 – No, leave the story the way it is.
Secondly, cutting it there because I'm a mean bitch! This is actually only half of what I wanted covered in this chapter but oh well, I seem to have this problem every update. So what did we learn? Emi is still a mystery – dodges books – I'm sorry! I swear in the next chapter or two she will have her plot revealed. It doesn't help I keep pushing things back!
I must admit I was very disappointed with the reviews from last chapter, I only got about half of what I normally do. And here I treated you all with a very long chapter! *sniffles * Ahh well, beggers can't be choosers, can they? :P There was something else I wanted to say, but for the life of me I can't remember. Oh wait, yes I can, I re-posted chapter 1, and I'm going back to fully edit and rework / give a facelift to / all of my early chapters.
Going back I really feel like they desperately need it. Anywho, enjoy the chapter! Drop a review, it makes my day!
Next time: Emi's confession, Temari's plan, Ino's birthday, Sakura's temptation, Tayuya's confrontation and a surprise twist I'm sure you all will enjoy! Thanx for reading, Kiravu.