Here we have the newest chapter!
Sorry that it's so late, been hung up on - well - life. I've made it a long one too, as to make up for it. 3
Disclaimer : Me no own Naru-chan or Suki-chan or any other 'Naruto' characters! (but I do own Hazuki!)
Thank-you all for the brilliant reviews!!
Also I dedicate this chapter to xflyxawayxangelx! My bestest mate!!
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Chapter Nine
No matter how much Naruto scrubbed and scrubbed, he simply couldn't get clean.
The blood, it covered him, embedded beneath his fingernails and marring his tanned skin…slight scratches from where Kabuto had tried to fight back? Naruto couldn't even remember…and it had become clear to him, that Kyuubi was avoiding him like the plague. No matter how idiotic it sounded, Naruto knew that was most certainly the case.
Kyuubi knew that he was doing something that would affect Naruto…yet he had done it anyway…Naruto couldn't hate him for it…Kyuubi was the only friend that Naruto had…but at the same time, Kyuubi made Naruto's life so very difficult…
All that damned blood…everywhere…pooling at his feet as he scrubbed it out of his hair, from beneath his nails and from his skin…Kabuto's blood and maybe his own…the steaming hot water washed it all away down the drain, the water so heated that Naruto could feel it burning…but he liked that feeling, that feeling of pain, of being punished for something that he shouldn't have done…something that Orochimaru wouldn't punish him for doing…not at least, how he should be punished.
There was such a great pain in his heart that morning. He hated Kabuto, and he could hardly say that it was guilt, but he was hurting, thinking about having to spend another day in school…like that, with his mind troubled as it was…and he would have to see Sasuke again.
Naruto wanted to see Sasuke.
Naruto wanted to watch Sasuke be happy…he wanted Sasuke to continue to be happy, to feel loved and to be free…but it hurt so much…he wanted to be with Sasuke, to hold Sasuke and to tell Sasuke how much he'd missed him…how much he still loved him, how much he'd been forgiven and how Naruto only wanted him back…
Naruto just wanted to avoid him.
If he saw Sasuke, he would break-down. His whole body was still trembling when he got out of the shower. He just couldn't stop shaking, and although his body usually healed quickly now, there was a little visible bruising around his left eye-socket…and it was damn sore.
Naruto did his best to style his hair so that his bangs covered more of his face, thankfully it seemed to do the job, hopefully less people would look at him today…hopefully Sasuke wouldn't look at him at all…
Orochimaru was waiting for him downstairs. That was unusual for him; Orochimaru didn't usually show up until night after Naruto had come back from school. Seeing Orochimaru waiting for him in the kitchen with his tonic and medication, it unnerved Naruto more than usual…and The Snake still seemed mildly pleased, though that morning he handed Naruto money…meaning that he would actually be able to eat that day. How strangely he was rewarded for attacking a 'companion'…Naruto didn't like to use that word for Kabuto…but he was Orochimaru's friend, Naruto supposed…a bad friend, but still a friend.
"Ready for school, Naruto-kun?" Orochimaru asked, appearing behind Naruto as he drank down the tonic. He remained still, putting down the glass onto the counter, his blank eyes watching the last of the liquid as it slid back down the side to the bottom.
Orochimaru's laugh was quiet but distinct. Naruto heard it right against his ear, and felt Orochimaru's cold hands as they ran through his hair almost gently…Naruto refrained from shuddering…not wanting to give Orochimaru the satisfaction of seeing him squirm, even after all the time they had been together.
"I won't be back until tomorrow night, Naruto-kun…" Orochimaru whispered softly in his ear, his hand from Naruto's hair and stroking the back of his neck, fingers running along the inside of his shirt and jacket collar, feeling the warmth of the tan flesh beneath his rough fingers. "but when I do get back, we're going to have another one of our sessions…"
Orochimaru laughed again, a crooked smirk upon his otherwise flawless face. He stood back from Naruto, lowering his hand to his side. Naruto continued to remain still, eyes seeing nothing for the time being, mind focusing on Orochimaru's words, and listening carefully to his movements…
"Keep the cell-phone with you." He ordered. "I'll call to check up on you tonight. Now get going, otherwise you'll become a nuisance if you're late…" Orochimaru paused and laughed once more at some private joke before voicing his thoughts. "Not as if they would notice if such a useless thing as you weren't to show up…"
Useless…yeah, that's how you make me feel…
Naruto left not moments after. He couldn't really think straight, not that morning. He could smell the blood upon him; he could still feel it as if it caked him, as if he'd never washed it off…
Naruto stopped on the same bridge he had stopped at the day before. The tightening in his muscles passed quickly, but for some reason, Naruto remained still, his blank eyes staring over the side of the bridge and into the water. It was so peaceful that morning…the subtle trickling of the water was soothing, but Naruto's mind was far from being blank…his ears far from listening to only the soft trickle of the water…
Empty. It was a horrible feeling. Orochimaru made him feel like that…empty and worthless…as if he was a waste of space, a waste of time…yet Orochimaru kept him around…useless…valuable…these words all meant the same to Naruto…Orochimaru used them just as much, in the same context, and somehow it made sense to Naruto since he'd listened to it for so long he'd stopped actually thinking about the meanings of these words…the meanings came from the actions that followed…
Naruto remained in his solitude for a little longer before it was interrupted by a small, soft stammering voice…
"Ann..anno? Ne…Uzu-Uzumaki-san?"
Naruto turned steadily to look back from where he'd came from. Stood there at the foot of the small bridge was a small girl with short dark hair. Her eyes gleamed like silver…they reminded him immediately of that tall boy who'd guided him around the day before…Hyuuga, Neji…Naruto reminded himself catching the slight blush on the girls cheeks as she looked slightly away.
"Are…are you…o-okay?"
Naruto - almost as an instant reaction - gave her his all too infamous kitsune grin and nodded, but there was still that blankness in his eyes that the young girl could not help but miss even as she only glanced upon him.
"I'm fine." Naruto reassured her. "No worries…"
Silence fell between them. The girl remained as she was, still slightly blushing and not making eye contact with the blonde…Naruto continued to smile his fake smile…he should say something…
"You don't have to call me by my family name." Naruto pointed out to her. "Naruto will do just fine." He realised he'd seen her walking around school…they glanced at each other for a moment, and Naruto remembered her name with a grin.
"Hinata-san," He added triumphantly, knowing that he was right.
"Ha-hai…" Hinata stuttered. "N-Naruto-kun."
Naruto didn't really know what to say. She was just stood there, kind of bashfully, holding her book-bag ahead of her, her silver eyes avoiding his at all costs. Naruto felt somewhat awkward stood there saying nothing…unlike he had been with Neji…who he was sure was her cousin or something…her eyes made him nervous and made him want to give her a reason why he wasn't talking, while Neji's just told him not to talk at all…
Sasuke's tell me he's sorry…
Naruto's grin vanished and he forced himself to turn away, he just felt so incredibly vulnerable…and Kyuubi wasn't there either…the balance was gone…
"N-Naruto-kun?" Hinata said, her voice still small.
Naruto glanced towards her for a moment, waiting for her to speak. "W-would you want t-to walk with m-me to s-school…?"
Naruto nodded and allowed a small smile to creep over his features. "Of course." He replied, reassuring her by directing his arm ahead of him in the direction they would be heading. Hinata blushed with a smile and nodded her head meekly, walking towards him so that they could be on their way.
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Naruto noticed that not much had been said between Hinata and him, but it had been okay, and strangely enough it wasn't awkward. She was sweet and quiet - blushed a little too much, about what - Naruto really didn't know, but he liked her and their quiet walk, it was a change from walking alone.
She nodded to him as a good-bye when they reached the school gates. She went over to a tall, muscular looking boy with messy brown hair and facial tattoos…Naruto had seen him yesterday in his English class. His name was Inuzuka, Kiba, Naruto was almost certain of it…Hinata's boyfriend? Naruto mused, gaining a somewhat friendly nod from Kiba with a crooked grin, and walked off towards the school building.
It was early still, there were only small groups of students around yet, most were yet to arrive. Naruto was kindly greeted by a smiling Iruka-sensei as he stood outside the classroom, awaiting the arrival of the teacher so that he could go inside.
Iruka let Naruto in as soon as he opened the door, Naruto decided that Iruka-sensei was a good person, he seemed like he could have a heart of gold, that warm, comforting smile that made Naruto feel slightly better, the way that he was so polite…yeah…he's a nice man…
Naruto remained silent as he took his seat to the far left of the classroom. Iruka-sensei watched the silent student for a while…he'd noticed it yesterday too…the way that Naruto seemed to be drawn in, so lonely…but it was almost as if it had always been that way for the blonde…he was blunt and didn't even attempt to make conversation. He either nodded or smiled meekly to show people he was listening or he understood…and his eyes, his brilliant eyes…Iruka-sensei hadn't seen eyes like those before. Gleaming blue orbs as blue as the sky on a summers day…but whenever Iruka looked into those eyes, he was smothered by sadness…Naruto was a very unhappy boy.
Iruka had even noticed the slight bruising around Naruto's eye-socket - that he'd looked like he'd been so careful to try and hide. Of course, Iruka-sensei only saw it because he was searching Naruto's eyes for any sign of life…maybe I'll have to check up on his situation at home…Iruka mused, wondering what was running through Naruto's mind as he sat there, blank eyes wondering over what seemed to be nothing.
"Ne, Naruto-kun?" Iruka's voice sounded over Naruto's dismal thoughts.
Naruto looked up and upon Iruka to show his smiling teacher that he was listening, but he didn't make direct eye-contact…classical signs of bullying…Iruka thought aimlessly to himself noticing Naruto evading eye-contact with him.
"Did you make any friends yesterday? I saw you walking to school with Hinata-san." Iruka said with a kind smile still in place as he stood from his desk and sorted out a few papers.
"Mhm…" Naruto nodded, eyes drifting back down to the wooden desk before him. Friends…? I don't think so…
"That's good," Iruka smiled, scratching the scar that ran across his nose, it seemed to be an old habit. His deep brown eyes perked open as he remembered something, wondering if she should voice his thoughts or not…hmmm…he decided he should.
"I also saw you yesterday with Sasuke-kun." Iruka's words seemed to stab at Naruto…but Iruka had looked away, he hadn't seen Naruto's hands balling into fists at the mention of his name. He hadn't heard Naruto's slight intake of breath…it was painful to say the least…he couldn't get Sasuke out of his head…why did you have to bring him up…?
"Sasuke-kun's a little anti-social, so I was rather surprised when I saw him talk to you yesterday at lunch-time. He really is a wonderful boy, I'm sure you two would get along just fine."
Naruto felt his insides turning, his body began to tremble…no, I don't need this…please…just stop…please…his sobs were inward, his head hanging dangerously low, his eyes broad and glassy as Iruka continued to talk…though his words seemed to drown out at once as he'd turned around and seen Naruto, he looked like he'd suddenly shrunk into himself…
"Oh…dear…" Iruka said quietly and motioned towards Naruto as a steady pace. Naruto looked as if he could erupt any moment…his whole body was shaking - not fiercely, but enough for Iruka to notice, and that was enough.
I must have said something wrong…Iruka mused as he squat down ahead of Naruto's desk, his eyebrows raised apologetically. Naruto didn't look up to Iruka…he just couldn't bare it…not that time…he wouldn't be able to do this…he wouldn't be able to handle people talking about Sasuke…he just couldn't pretend that he didn't know him…he couldn't do that…not when he was still in love with Sasuke …
"Are you alright, Naruto-kun?" Iruka said, a tinge of worry in his voice that Naruto found oddly unsettling...a tone that was almost unfamiliar. "Is there…something you would like to talk about…?" Iruka offered.
Naruto gently shook his head…he just felt worse, the scent of blood rising from his skin…and only he could smell it…only he could feel it…only he knew it was there…why should you care…?
"Naruto-kun…?"
Iruka reached out his hands to comfort Naruto…noticing the whitening of his balled hands upon the desk…yeah…something is defiantly very, very wrong…Iruka mused, his fingers hovering inches above Naruto's hand…he looked up into Naruto's blank eyes…he really couldn't believe those eyes…all of the sadness and the pain that seemed to circle within them, only making Iruka's mothering (yes mothering) instincts come through…
Naruto hadn't even seen Iruka's hands until it was almost too late. With a quick gasp, Naruto pulled his hands away and held them nervously against his chest, feeling himself trembling…he couldn't let Iruka touch him…he couldn't…
Iruka took his hands away - almost frightened by the sudden reaction…he didn't know how he should react to that sudden movement or to the look of fear that was written over Naruto's face…Iruka felt a part of him sink…this boy needs help…
"Naruto…what's wrong?" Iruka almost pleaded. He didn't know Naruto, and wasn't sure if he could even help the boy, he seemed that he was a little too far gone by now…the look on his face was of sheer terror…the loneliness on his eyes was unbearable, almost as unbearable as the pain.
Like a child would, Naruto shook his head, his eyes failing to focus on anything but his own hands as he drew them closer to him…he can't touch me…he can't…
"Naruto…?" Iruka restrained the urge to attempt to comfort the boy once more and remained as he was, watching Naruto with raised brows…he needs help…Iruka thought once more, wondering if there would be anyway that he could help, yet somehow, as he watched Naruto, he doubted it.
"I'm…sorry, Iruka-sensei…" came Naruto's weak voice as he attempted to calm himself…he had forgotten how strange things could be without Kyuubi there…even knowing that Kyuubi would acknowledge him if questioned could give Naruto some comfort, but Kyuubi was ignoring him, guilty of what he had done…he wouldn't answer Naruto's pleadings.
"Why, Naruto-kun? You haven't done anything wrong…" Iruka pointed out, but it didn't seem as if it had gotten through to the blonde…
Naruto shook his head and looked up, a weak smile in place. "Thank-you…but I'm…I'm fine…" Naruto couldn't look at the kind teacher, his head was too busy spinning, the scent of blood that washed over him…I have to stay calm…I can't loose it in school…I can't bring all these people into it…
Iruka stood up straight as the classroom door slid open, but the look of worry did not entirely vanish from his face, even as he turned around to greet who had entered. He put on a small smile as he watched the tall, stoic figure of Uchiha, Sasuke enter the room.
"Ohayo, Uchiha-san." Iruka greeted him, not noticing that at once Naruto lowered his head, his body beginning to tremble once more. Though Iruka did note that Sasuke glanced at him and nodded as his usual greeting, but also that he had shot a glance at Naruto and turned away at once…this is beginning to get suspicious…
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They weren't in the classroom alone for long afterwards. The other students began to gather into the room, Haruno, Sakura leading an army of boys and greeting Hinata with her admirer Kiba as she did every morning…except that morning, she had taken one glance at Sasuke and decided that, that morning he was in one of those moods, ones that she knew she shouldn't never tempt fate with.
She left him to himself, although glanced at him from time to time, noticing how he was in such a foul mood, actually she could barely describe what he looked like…his appearance in general told her that he was insanely aggravated…but the longer she looked and looked at his deep black eyes…she knew that he was miserable…she'd never seen him look so sad - angry maybe, but not sad.
Sasuke kept his eyes down…his mind blank of thought, he just sat there, ears listening to the mindless babble around him that mingled into one single voice…he couldn't care less what was going on around him…he just wanted to stop hurting.
Unknowingly he took a glance over to Naruto…Naruto sat right up against the wall, Shikamaru and Kiba seemed to be attempting to involve him in a conversation but Naruto seemed not to acknowledge them, and even if he was, he was making a good job of hiding it.
Sasuke felt himself spiralling downwards once again…smothered in his own self-pity. He felt pathetic, but he'd waited years…five long years, to see Naruto again, and even if Naruto hated him, it would be something better…but Naruto didn't even remember him…and he just couldn't get over it. God, I knew that if I ever did see him again things wouldn't be the same…but this…it really is too much…
He stared back down at the desk, his arms folded ahead of him upon the smooth surface; he turned one over and stared down at his wrist as if able to see the scars beneath the fabric…so entranced by what he was thinking that he hadn't even noticed the absence of the class…that they'd been excused.
Iruka looked up from his desk. Naruto had gone…my newest troubled student…now for the other one…the original-troubled student…Iruka noticed that Sasuke had not left his seat. He simply sat there as if absorbed by his own thoughts…which was recently something unusual for the Uchiha. Something must really be bothering him…I wonder if it's contagious…?
Sasuke only snapped out of his daze once he heard his name…Iruka-sensei…?
"Ne, Sasuke-kun?" Sasuke blinked for what must have been the first time in too long. He looked up to Iruka-sensei who stood ahead of his desk with a half-hearted smile, and eyebrows raised apologetically…Sasuke knew that look and sighed inwardly.
"How are you feeling today?" Iruka asked with a smile, noticing what Sasuke had been staring at had been his wrists. Iruka knew well enough that Sasuke had been prone to self-harm in the past, he'd heard it from the mouth of Sasuke's older brother - Itachi - and headmistress, Tsunade when Sasuke had first started up at school…he'd been asked to keep a close eye on Sasuke for that time, which he had been, and recently, things hadn't been too difficult, before the summer, things seemed to be heading to be better and better…but now, in the new school year, Sasuke seemed somewhat fatigued and distant…
"Hn…" came Sasuke's usual reply. The glare was back in place along with the scowl that marred his perfect brow beneath his long ebony bangs and he stood up and heaved his satchel strap over his shoulder.
Iruka watched as the boy walked passed him and out of the room, noting to himself that Sasuke had shot up even more over the summer, he was just about taller than he was now…Iruka smiled to himself…but it was still rather half-hearted, he always worried about his students, he thought that was maybe what aged him…not that he seemed exactly old…being only twenty six…but it did something to him…
Sasuke had been his main worry over the years…they had a sort of silent relationship…Iruka would always be there if Sasuke needed help, and indeed, Sasuke had spoken to him in the past with total confidence that Iruka wouldn't breathe a word of it to anyone - even his brother. And of course Iruka hadn't said a thing. Usually it was about Itachi anyway…not that Iruka saw Itachi as a bad brother or a bad person…he only knew that there was something that had happened in Sasuke's past that he blamed Itachi for, and also that he wasn't about to forgive Itachi for doing.
Iruka went back to his desk after Sasuke had left, pondering over what had happened in the past few minutes…and thought to himself…I wonder if Sasuke's problems have anything to do with Naruto…?
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The day seemed to go by at a slow rate if anything. Sasuke dragged himself from lesson to lesson, trying to pick up the courage to do what he was about to do…first he needed lunch to come by…in his mind he was still denying that someway Naruto was lying…that he did remember him, but then the other part of his mind told him that he was just trying to think up excuses…trying to make himself hurt less - when in reality, Sasuke thought it would hurt more if Naruto was lying to him, simply because he couldn't understand why Naruto would want to do such a thing.
He didn't think that his plan was proofed in anyway - in fact, he couldn't even call it a plan, more like an idea of sorts. He just wanted to get closer to Naruto, if only to have Naruto push him away again. But if he didn't remember him, then Sasuke could get close to him again, start anew…shit, that is such a fucked up idea…I could never do that…
He watched the clouds trudge by slowly in the noonday sky. The sun was hazy and shone through the high cafeteria windows with elegance, watching the gathering school pupils as they emptied out into the large room ready for the best part of the day. Lunch.
Sasuke didn't usually risk going into the cafeteria, but that day - like the day before - he would risk it for Naruto - or maybe for the sake of his own sanity.
"Hyuuga," Sasuke said, coming up behind the older boy. Hyuuga, Neji waited for Sasuke to come and sit next to him at the table, which he did momentarily, attempting to avoid all eye contact in the room.
"Can I help you?" Neji questioned, raising the rice to his mouth with the chopsticks.
"I was wondering, you're still leading the new boy around the school aren't you?" Sasuke asked, shoving his hands in his trouser pockets as he looked up over Neji who didn't look towards him.
"Uzumaki, Naruto." Neji stated the boy's name, and watched Sasuke wince slightly at the mention of the name and look aside. Neji raised a curious eyebrow and expressionless silver eyes looked over the Uchiha. "I'll be leading him around for the week." Neji pointed out. "Anything else?"
Sasuke took a deep breath, wondering what if he should ask or not. He paused for a moment, looking down, before he made eye-contact with Neji once more. "There is something else that I would like to ask you," Sasuke begun a little uneasily, brows creased. Neji waited patiently, his mind couldn't help but draw conclusions about the relationship between Naruto and Sasuke - since there undoubtedly was one.
"Would you allow me to walk him around for the rest of today…?" Sasuke wondered, feeling his stomach churning, balling his hands in his pockets as he awaited the answer from the expressionless Hyuuga.
Neji looked back to his food, his girlfriend, TenTen heading over to join him, flashing a Polaroid camera in their faces - Rock Lee not too far behind, a guitar bag slung over one shoulder as he balanced his tray in one hand and a few books in the other.
"What relationship do you have with Naruto-san, Uchiha?" Neji questioned, catching Sasuke slightly off guard.
"I - I…it's just that I need to talk with him." Sasuke replied, stammering more than intended - although he hadn't intended to stammer at all.
"Very well. Here's my copy of his time-table." Neji said fishing a neatly folded piece of paper from his jacket pocket. He handed it over to Sasuke without looking at him.
Sasuke was a little surprised to say the least. He nodded as he took the paper and began to stand. He nodded his thanks to Neji before he was heading to turn away. Neji reached out quicker than the eye could see and gripped onto Sasuke's wrist, causing the Uchiha to wince slightly at the sudden contact. He looked back to Neji who was staring upon him blankly.
"Be careful with him, Sasuke-san." Neji warned, completely serious. Sasuke heed the warning and nodded his head once more as he had his wrist returned to him. Sasuke took no more time than needed and walked off towards the exit.
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He had bought himself a sandwich and a can of cola and went outside once more, to the spot under the tree where he had been the day before.
The food was empty of taste, and he pretty much picked at it, having lost his appetite years ago…he knew that must have sounded foolish…but he hadn't eaten properly in years, just enough to keep him roughly alive - though he learnt that unlike most people he could go about a week without eating anything.
The picked at lettuce, ham and tomato sandwich was left aside half finished, he held the can in his hands and rested against the tree, his mind blank of thought as his eyes stared hopelessly down at the metal ring on top of the can, at the fizzy liquid that gathered around the rim. He felt completely numb on the inside, he couldn't feel anything aside from his head pulsing, but that was just his heartbeat.
He didn't want to be there, but at least he knew that when he would get back to the mansion, Orochimaru wouldn't be there, he could be at peace for a change, without Kabuto to worry about either, having being informed that Kabuto would not only be unconscious for a few more days, but that Orochimaru had, had him moved out of the mansion. Naruto didn't know where he was, and to be frank he couldn't care less…he only knew that once Kabuto was well again, Naruto could expect payback for what he had done - and usually with Kabuto, that came in the form of syringes and drugs.
Naruto remained like this for what seemed to be too long. But in reality only about ten minutes had passed since the beginning of lunch, it was only thanks to a free-period before lunch that he had gotten his lunch so early, he'd gone straight outside and that's where he'd remained.
He hadn't seen Sasuke since that morning.
Its better this way…Naruto reminded himself once again, a sentence that he had been repeating in his mind for the whole day, or at least since Iruka-sensei had spoken to him. Naruto realised that Iruka-sensei had only had his best interests at heart, but he couldn't let such a nice man get involved with anything about him - it wouldn't be fair.
"Now you, you look like the type of guy who'd look better with one of those massive grins on your face."
Naruto looked up to where the voice had come from, and was surprised to see that Inuzuka, Kiba was stood there, looking down at him with a kind crooked smile. He sat himself down next to Naruto and looked out over the playing fields.
Naruto said nothing, but looked ahead once more, moving into himself slightly, making sure that Kiba didn't touch him. "What's happening, Uzumaki? You getting along well with the crowds here?"
"Haven't met anyone I dislike." Naruto told him quite bluntly. Kiba laughed - loudly.
"Great, that's always a good thing!" Kiba nudged Naruto in the side, but didn't notice the boy flinch at the contact, only looked back ahead of him at the basketball game that was going on within the caged-court.
"So you live on the same estate as Hinata?" Kiba said, the smile still placed upon his features. "Another rich kid, cool, don't get many around here aside from the Hyuuga's." Kiba pointed out, folding his arms lazily behind his head.
Again, Naruto remained silent, simply listening. "Hey, you don't wanna come over and sit with me and my friends do you? I mean, it's just Hinata - who you already know - my best mate, Shino, and Shikamaru. Promise they won't bite," He laughed. "It's me you gotta worry about with that," He joked.
Naruto put on a small smile, a fake one if only to humour Kiba, but he couldn't get involved. "No thanks," Naruto said. "I'm fine here. Thank-you for the offer, though."
"Meh - no problem." Kiba smiled as he brought himself back up onto his feet, looking down at Naruto with his arms still folded behind his head. "We're just sat over there if ya wanna join us." Kiba pointed on the other side of the caged-court to where all the benches were, Naruto noticed small Hinata sat there with two boys, all three of them seemed silent and eating - it seemed that Kiba was the life of the party.
"Thank-you, Kiba," Naruto said with another smile, a little more genuine that time. Yeah, Kiba was another one of those good guys. Naruto could always tell.
"Well then, ja-ne." Kiba nodded to Naruto and headed off, leaving Naruto alone once more, something he was more than used to. He simply watched for the few moments as Kiba walked back over to his friends wondering about them, and how nice it would be to have a group of friends like that. But he didn't linger on it for too long, there was no time to think about things like that.
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Sasuke looked down at the time-table for the fourth time before folding it back neatly and placing it back in his jacket pocket. His obsidian eyes stared down at the tiled floor of the corridor, leant back against his locker, wondering why the Hell he'd even bothered to attempt this.
It won't make any difference if he doesn't remember me. He told himself again, but it was too late now to go and give it back to Neji, he had to go through with it, no matter how stupid he felt or how much he wouldn't be able to help himself…Sasuke had the worst feeling at the pit of his stomach, he could throw up what little lunch he ate right there, but he took a deep breath and held it down.
Resting his head back against the locker, noticing how empty the small corridor was, Sasuke wondered about the time…he still had a while yet before lunch was over and the corridors would once again be flooded with students. He sighed and took in another deep breath, running his fingers through his heavy bangs and away from his eyes, they fell either side of his face, leaving his eyes uncovered by the ebony strands.
Sasuke pushed himself away from the locker and began to walk, putting his hands in his trouser pockets, heading to God-knows-where, to just maybe be alone for a little while longer. Looking down at the ground, Sasuke continued onwards, lost in thought as he watched the ground ahead of him, and his feet taking him right, Sasuke continued going until he felt his body hit something - or more likely - someone.
Falling back slightly, Sasuke took his hands from his pockets to look up, his mouth open ready to apologise to whom he had hit - only to notice that, that said person had fallen to the floor. Sasuke's eyes went broad as he looked down at the blonde head of hair that was sat up on the floor ahead of him, picking up his bag.
The Uchiha remained silent as he watched Naruto who still hadn't looked up yet, though had apologised…Sasuke couldn't believe how nice it was to hear his voice. Then Naruto looked up as he was bringing himself onto his feet, and stopped suddenly as his eyes locked with the obsidian ones that watched him.
"Sasuke…" He said quieter and quicker than he had intended. His own azure eyes looked at the beautiful black eyes that watched him, and he couldn't say anything more.
Sasuke was surprised by the tone that Naruto had used…and the look in his eyes. Sasuke couldn't help but scowl…that was a look of guilt…guilt…the bastard does remember me…Sasuke mused, feeling his heart beginning to thud, able to hear it beating in his head, his breathing hastening…Naruto seemed to have the same problem.
Naruto swore inwardly watching those eyes and knowing…knowing that he had let it slip…his own eyes had betrayed him - and it wasn't the first time was it.
"Sorry - I didn't mean to walk into you - excuse me," Naruto said quickly, taking his eyes away from Sasuke's pained ones, and indeed, Sasuke's eyes were shining with pain. Naruto turned around swiftly planning to go back the way he came, feeling a part of him tearing apart.
Sasuke's eyes opened wide as he watched Naruto walk away, but he wouldn't let that happen, he wouldn't let Naruto get away, not that time. Sasuke reached forwards swiftly and reached out his right arm and took a firm hold on Naruto's left wrist, pulling the boy back around to face him.
"Naruto - please," Sasuke practically pleaded, his eyes locking once more with Naruto's. Both of them looked equally as frightened, and Sasuke could feel Naruto shaking as he held his wrist, refusing the let go. Shaking with what, fear? Excitement? Hate?
"Naruto…" Sasuke said a little softer, his gaze softening as he looked slightly down at the blonde. He had no idea what to say…what was there to say? All he could do was beg for forgiveness…all he could do was - "Why…why did you lie to me…? Why did you…pretend that you didn't remember me…?" Hurt filled his quiet voice as he spoke, no visible anger in the tone of his voice, he was angry, very angry, but the pain swallowed it until the hurt was the only thing visible or noticeable.
Naruto opened his mouth to speak, his throat dry as he felt his body trembling, unable to take his eyes away…it wasn't possible…to be able to look into those eyes once more, it was something that made Naruto happy, but it didn't show, it couldn't, Naruto shouldn't be looking at Sasuke, he shouldn't be talking to him or anywhere near him…why did this have to happen…?
"Naruto…"
"I - I'm sorry, Sasuke…I…I - please…let go…" Naruto stammered, feeling his stomach twisting as he began to pull himself away from Sasuke, though the Uchiha didn't seem to be loosening his grip on Naruto's wrist. "Sasuke…please…" Naruto had taken his eyes away and lowered his head as he felt warm tears wetting his cheeks…he couldn't' believe that he was crying…
"Naruto, tell me - why…why are you -,"
Naruto managed to slip himself away and began to walk off, but he didn't get very far before he began to feel suddenly unwell…he should have known that it would happen. Why can't I hate you, Sasuke? Why can't I hate you for leaving me? You bastard…you fucking bastard…
"Naruto, please." Sasuke begged, watching Naruto as he stopped, and wrapped his arms around himself, holding his back to Sasuke who moved no closer, holding his arm down at his side.
Kyuubi…please…Naruto begged inwardly. I…I don't want to be here anymore…
Sasuke honestly didn't know what to do or what to say, he simply stood there, watching Naruto, he couldn't believe what was happening, and how it had happened…Naruto really did remember him, so after that - even though it had been only a day - Sasuke couldn't believe that Naruto really had lied to him…by why? Why the hell did he do that?
"Naruto…please, talk to me -,"
The next thing Sasuke remembered was a hand gripping him around the throat and he was slammed into a locker, lifted about an inch from the ground. Sasuke's eyes were dazed as his head hit the locker…what the fuck? He looked up blinking, feeling the hand tightening around his throat and found that he couldn't breathe.
His hands immediately clutched onto the hand that was around his throat before he spotted with broad eyes who had him pinned so forcefully against the locker…Naruto?
"Maybe Naruto doesn't want to speak to you, ever thought about that?" the voice that had spoken was deeper than Naruto's voice, and the figure had such strength to lift Sasuke off the ground. Sasuke looked into blood red eyes, eyes that shone with anger and burned with power…this wasn't Naruto…but at the same time it was.
"Naru-to…?" Sasuke struggled to say, short on breath, wanting to cry out as he felt sharp fingernails embed themselves into the flesh of his throat. His own fingers gripped tighter onto the single arm that held him and he whimpered, but the arm remained unmoving.
"Who are you to talk to him, hmm?" Naruto growled, a crooked smirk coming to his lips, ruthless canines resting on his bottom lip. Sasuke's brows lowered in confusion…he didn't understand what was going on…who are you?
"Pl-please - Naruto…I-I can't - breathe…" Sasuke begged, his eyes fluttering as his face drained entirely of any colour; his fingers clawing at the arm that still held him against the wall…this can't be Naruto…
"Sas-uke…" The sound of the voice had changed…it was no longer deep, no longer angry, it was Naruto's voice, the Naruto that Sasuke remembered.
Sasuke managed to open his eyes, feeling the hand weakening around his throat…he watched as the smirk vanished from the face ahead of him, and as one of the eyes faded from crimson to violet and back to azure…the other remained red.
The hand was ripped away from Sasuke's throat and Sasuke dropped limply to the ground, coughing hard as he rubbed his sore throat, surprised that he felt blood upon his finger tips. His dazed mind could barely contemplate what had just happened…yet he looked up to see Naruto's staggering and trembling figure as he walked backwards, hitting his back against the furthest locker, his hands covering his face.
Sasuke really didn't have any idea what on earth was going on, but the moment he saw Naruto about to fall, Sasuke was up onto his feet and caught Naruto as his eyes closed and he collapsed, unconscious. Sasuke's eyes were broad and he was breathing hard as he held Naruto's limp figure against him. He wrapped his arms around Naruto; he didn't know what he should do. Should he take him to see the school nurse? No…he couldn't do that…he had to get him away from school.
Sasuke took a look around the still empty corridor and thought quickly. He would take Naruto back to his house. Lifting Naruto against him, Sasuke strongly lifted Naruto's deadweight from the ground and carried him against his chest, with one arm behind his back, the other under his knees. Naruto's head dropped against Sasuke's shoulder as Sasuke headed back up the corridor that he had come from to the doorway at the very end that would take him to the back of the school and towards the student parking lot.
Making sure that there were no prying eyes, Sasuke saw his car and lowering Naruto's leg's, still holding the unconscious blonde against him, Sasuke reached into his pants pocket and pulled out the keys. He placed Naruto across the back seat before getting into the front and driving home.
During this whole time, Sasuke could swear that he wasn't thinking. He didn't know what on earth he was doing or what had happened…Naruto had attacked him…but he was sure that hadn't been Naruto, it couldn't have been, Naruto would never have done anything like that…would he?
Sasuke ignored the pain in his throat as he drove along, able to feel the warm blood as it trickled down beneath the collar of his shirt and ran down his back. He occasionally checked over his shoulder, only to have his eyes pass over a motionless figure in the back of his car…he looked so peaceful as he lay there, so calm, as if nothing had happened.
Sasuke had barely even questioned Orochimaru…he was the reason why Naruto was the way he was, Sasuke knew that, and yet he still couldn't believe what had just happened - but he didn't care, Naruto couldn't have meant to do that to him, no matter how much he had deserved it…and besides, whoever it had been, he'd spoken in third person hadn't he? He'd been talking about Naruto as if they were two different people…like a split personality.
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Sasuke lay Naruto down on his bed; he was quick to fetch a damp cloth and placed it against Naruto's too-warm forehead, hoping to help lower his temperature. Sasuke backed away from the still figure that lay upon his bed, his heart couldn't have been beating any louder, Sasuke was sure that he could wake Naruto with the amount of noise it was making, beating like a drum in his head.
Thankfully, Hazuki hadn't been home - as she usually wasn't around mid-day, she would be at her sister's or with her mother at this time of day, going to visit her sister's kids or to just go shopping with someone…Itachi was never home until late at night anyway, so Sasuke didn't even bother checking for him.
Sasuke took in a deep breath to attempt to relax himself, he could feel his body trembling, when he let out a whole chorus of coughs, his throat still hurting and feeling incredibly tight. Sasuke covered his mouth with his hand and quickly headed out of his room and to the bathroom.
Once there Sasuke pulled off his jacket and shirt and after drinking down a glass of water, inspected the damage done to his throat. The blood had stopped flowing by now, and had dried over his ivory skin, in thin lines down his back. He dabbed a cloth of warm water against the four marks upon his throat, hoping to wash away all the blood to get a better inspection of what had happened.
In all honesty, Sasuke couldn't stop himself from shaking. And as he dropped the cloth back to the water he had to grip onto the counter for balance, still feeling dizzy as he took short and painful breathes. He bit his dry lip as he forced himself to look back up at his reflection in the mirror. His hair was brushed away from his eyes, revealing perfect, flawless features and porcelain white skin that contrasted almost too beautifully with his obsidian eyes and equally as dark hair…he hadn't seen his reflection like that in a while, with his hair out of the way…sometimes he couldn't stand himself, and that was one of those times.
Sasuke finished cleaning up the marks on his throat and fished out a clean dark blue t-shirt from the airing cupboard and pulled in on over his head as he went back out, leaving the bloody cloth in the pink water in the sink.
Stood at his bedroom door, his eyes wondered over the sleeping figure. His face was entirely expressionless, Naruto's was one of calm…Sasuke only wondered how he would react when he would wake up.
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Two hours passed.
Sasuke sat on his desk chair watching Naruto resting there. He hadn't moved as far as Sasuke knew, he'd remained so still that Sasuke got worried and checked his pulse on more than one occasion just to check to see if he was still awake. Of course, Naruto was alive; his pulse was even and peaceful. Sasuke's heart had calmed down after a while, his throat was still sore and had bruised within the time that he'd been waiting, but he wasn't coughing anymore at least.
Sasuke was unsure of what he should do…school still wasn't out yet, and Hazuki was yet to return home, and even then she wouldn't be expecting him home until later on…how would he be able to explain this?
"Hey, Hazuki-chan, this is Uzumaki, Naruto, he's the boy that I used to be best friends with before Itachi took me away from him about five years ago. I think he's mentally unstable like me and he attacked me in school then fainted, but its okay if he stays here, right?"
Somehow - Sasuke didn't think so…although he was more than certain that Hazuki - being her - would most likely say "Why not!?" with a bright smile, and ask what they would like for dinner.
Sasuke shook his head at the thought of it. Hazuki was too good to be true sometimes…and way too good for Itachi…back to the matter at hand…Sasuke reminded himself, his eyes focusing back upon the blonde. Sasuke got up off his desk chair and walked over to kneel at the bedside.
He remained there just watching Naruto, and that was all he really could do, he'd taken the cloth away about an hour ago when he'd figured that Naruto's temperature had gone down, and he'd taken it into the bathroom, emptying the sink in the process.
Almost without realising it, Sasuke reached forward and gently lifted a few stray strands of golden hair and moved them from over Naruto's face, his fingers traced just above the three marks that Naruto had upon his cheek…Sasuke remembered these markings with a smile…he never had found out how Naruto had gotten them, he didn't even think that Naruto himself knew.
"I was so frightened, Naruto." Sasuke said suddenly, his dry voice a low whisper as he rested his face against the quilt. "I never wanted to leave you…I hope you know that…I'm so sorry that I left - but I did come back, looking for you, but Orochimaru had already packed up and left…Itachi wouldn't take me to where you were…I've missed you."
Sasuke felt stupid for saying these things out loud, but he knew full well that when the time would come, he wouldn't be able to say what he meant to say…if he would be able to say anything at all.
Hearing Sasuke's voice was like a dream. Naruto could hear his words, they circled in his mind, but they didn't really have a meaning, Naruto couldn't even remember what had happened…all he could hear and think about was Sasuke's soft voice as it whispered to him, it soothed him.
It didn't sound like a dream. No, it wasn't a dream, it couldn't be a dream. Then Naruto remembered what had happened.
Sasuke shot back, falling back upon his hands as Naruto sat up quickly on the bed, eyes broad as they searched around, only spotting Sasuke on the floor moments later. He was swiftly off the bed and backing against a wall as Sasuke clambered back onto his feet, remaining silent and stood far enough away from Naruto as not to alarm him further.
Sasuke's face remained expressionless as he watched Naruto's face suddenly relax, he looked over to Sasuke an equally as blank expression, and neither of them said anything.
Naruto looked over Sasuke carefully, recalling what Kyuubi had done…knowing that Kyuubi still wasn't going to talk to him, knowing that he had once again done wrong…Naruto then spotted the bruise upon Sasuke's throat and raised his eyebrows apologetically as he walked over towards him, giving Sasuke a fright.
Naruto held out his hand and eyes looked over the bruising upon Sasuke's throat. "I - did that." Naruto said watching it carefully as if it would run away in any moment.
Sasuke rubbed his tender throat slowly and shook his head. "It wasn't you." Sasuke said in an almost reassuring tone, but the fact that his voice was small and hoarse kind of defeated the object of it.
"I - I'm sorry, Sasuke." Naruto said quietly, taking his eyes away again.
Silence fell between them, Sasuke was a little surprised by Naruto's reaction, but decided to say nothing about it, and lowered his arm back to his side, looking away, able to feel his heart beat beginning to hasten once more.
"I…I didn't want to lie…to you…" Naruto spoke up a few moments later, once more catching Sasuke off guard who hadn't really expected Naruto to speak at all. Sasuke looked up and over at Naruto. The blonde stood with his head lowered, eyes searching the ground as his hands remained fists at his sides.
"Then why?" Sasuke questioned softly. "Why did you pretend that you didn't remember me?"
"I - I couldn't let you get involved with me, Sasuke, I couldn't." Naruto shook his head somewhat childishly. "Not again…"
Sasuke nodded his head. "Naruto…I," Sasuke took a careful step forward, but stopped there as Naruto looked up. "I want to know the real reason."
"But that was -,"
"Naruto." Sasuke cut across, locking eyes with the blonde. "There's another reason." Sasuke told him, as if trying to make a point that he already knew the answer.
Naruto suddenly frowned as if feeling threatened by Sasuke and looked at him darkly, but he was once again trembling. Naruto shook his head…I shouldn't even be here…Sasuke took a step forward once again, which slightly started Naruto, he took a step back, but he was already against the wall.
"I abandoned you," Sasuke said almost coldly. "And that's the only reason?"
"Sasuke - you…I know you didn't…I -," Naruto stammered scowling and shaking his head once more…"I know…that you didn't mean to…go."
"But I still left."
"But you didn't mean to go!" Naruto yelled, glaring at Sasuke with glassy eyes, tears threatening to fall. Sasuke remained unnerved, an all-too-familiar expressionless mask upon his face. "You…didn't mean to go…" Naruto repeated quieter.
"I hate myself for leaving you, Naruto." Sasuke told him truthfully. "I wouldn't blame you if you hated me too -,"
"No - I could never hate you, Sasuke - ever…" Naruto said strongly, looking Sasuke dead in the eyes. "I - I missed you too much to ever think about hating you…I never thought I would see you again."
Sasuke took another step forwards as Naruto stood away from the wall. Sasuke didn't say anything, though Naruto looked directly upon Sasuke, knowing that he should go away, that he shouldn't get anywhere near Sasuke. He shook his head once more…the second reason…tears fell from Naruto's eyes, stopping Sasuke in his tracks.
"I need to go…" Naruto said, wiping his eyes with the back of his sleeve. "We - I can't…we can't be friends again…Sasuke - not again…" Naruto continued to shake his head, his brows still creased.
"Why - why not?" Sasuke asked, a slight tone of panic rung true within his voice, his eyes broadening…No, you can't, I won't let you get away…
"I can't, Sasuke." Naruto said simply. "I…don't want to get attached to anyone…I can't."
"Naruto -,"
"I'll just end up leaving again…" Naruto felt more tears as they rolled down his cheeks; his heart was aching as he spoke, and as he looked up at Sasuke's broad eyes he wondered if he felt the same.
"No - no," Sasuke retorted. "I can't, Naruto…no - I'm not going to let that happen, please…" Sasuke stepped close enough to Naruto so that they could touch. Sasuke looked him dead in the eyes. "Please, let me make up for all the years…I've missed you too much, Naruto…I can't - I won't be able to pretend - I won't do that."
Sasuke reached forward with his hand, and with slight hesitation he brushed his fingers over Naruto's left cheek, wiping away the tears. Sasuke was surprised when Naruto didn't stop him, and that Naruto seemed to melt into his touch, taking a step forwards, taking Sasuke by surprise as he wrapped his arms around him, and held him so tight that Sasuke could believe that he was holding on for dear life.
Naruto shut his eyes tight, wrapping his arms around Sasuke's muscular form, burying his face in the crook of Sasuke's neck, not about to let go. He could hear Sasuke's hastening heartbeat as his tears soaked the t-shirt that the Uchiha wore, but he couldn't help himself, the contact…I've missed him so much…
Sasuke steadily raised his arms and placed them around Naruto, feeling the trembling figure against his body, he could hear Naruto muttering something against his chest. He lowered his face until it rested atop of those golden locks and breathed in the soft scent of Naruto's hair as his grip tightened around the boy.
"I don't want you to leave again." Naruto muttered, tears running down his cheeks.
"I promise you, Naruto. I'm never going anywhere again. And I still promise that I'll get you out of this…I know that my word can't mean much…but either way, I'm getting you out of there."
Naruto didn't say anything, only nodded into Sasuke's torso, not about to let him go.
Sasuke smiled and shut his eyes…he didn't even need to use the excuse of the time-table…so what, he'd been strangled, but it was all going to be okay, Sasuke wasn't about to let Naruto get away, and he wasn't about to go anywhere. He would make this work, and he would make everything better.
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Fluff much?
Sorry about that, couldn't think of any better way to end it without people killing me for leaving it as a cliffy, well let's just say that it's gonna get better from here on!
Also, still no beta, so do not kill author-sama.
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