I'm not one for putting comments in the beginning of a chapter...but yea. So enjoy. Sorry about the spelling and grammar in the chapters before...I'm using my laptop most of the time and MS word is kinda…retarded at the moment.
Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto. Kishimoto does.
Sasuke:
Itachi didn't bother to wake me up. I told him once we got home yesterday to wake me up early. My reason: Tenten's birthday. I know I didn't say anything before about it, but come on now, her adoption wasn't the only reason she was getting flowers. All of rookie 9 planned to give Tenten flowers the day before her birthday. Then the day of, we give her individual gifts. The first set of flowers from last night (From Lee and Naruto) was from our Team. Kakashi didn't want to share the credit, but Lee wanted to add his name. Shikamaru's team, Kiba's team, and the Sand siblings (mostly Temari) wanted to wait until the day of. It's just a guess but I think the blue roses were from Team Gai. It's a guess.
I sat up in bed. My window was open. I could have sworn it was closed. I sighed. Itachi must have been in my room again. I don't mind. I look around. Everything is in place, all my ninja shit is were I left it. As long as Itachi doesn't touch anything, he's allowed in my room. I hear foot steps down stairs. Itachi is awake? Probably cleaning or something. I drag myself to the bathroom for a shower. I blast my mp3 on the speakers. The good thing about not having parents is that they'll never tell you to turn it down or nag at you for listening to the same type of music all the time. Lucky for me, both Itachi and I have similar tastes.
The warm water pounds on my hair. Steam starts to fill the bathroom. My skin started turning pink, so I turned up the cold water. My skin turned normal after a few minutes, but goose bumps started to form. People get goose bumps because of fear, or they're cold. I never understood that. If you're scared, then yell like a little girl the way Sakura and Ino did last October! But if your cold, you shiver, no need for goose bumps. I'm not cold. Then why do I have goose bumps? I don't know. I'm not a doctor or a scientist that studies the human body. Sakura is though, but I'm not going to ask her. She's annoying as hell. Ever since the damn academy it's " Oh, Sasuke! Can I sit here?" She sits anyway. "Oh, Sasuke you're so great!" I know that already, thanks for stating the obvious. And then with Ino and her sing-song call; "Oooh, Saaasuke-kuuun!" and "Oh, Sasuke are you doing anything today? Maybe we can, oh I don't know, have lunch together, or something?" Uh, no. So fuck off. I don't get these fan girls, don't they have something better to do? Don't they have a life? Oh and the worst was when I came back. Oh Kami-sama! They both jumped on me and were kissing me and shit. Ugh. I mean for some guys you would want girls all over you but me, no. Naruto just gave me a pat on the shoulder and a "Welcome home".
I've been wasting water for about ten minutes now. I washed up and step onto the cool tiles covering the floor. I grab my towel and brush my teeth. My reflection showed my eyes with bags. I haven't been able to sleep very well lately. Only reason why is that the village can be attacked at any moment. Even after I killed Orochimaru...well...Itachi did. Orochimaru was just living in my Genjutsu then came out when I fought Itachi. Anyway, after that, I haven't heard from Orochimaru's niece. She have taken over Oto when I left with Team Hebi/Taka. She can snap at anytime and attack us. She can be anyone. She's immortal, just like Orochimaru. Only, she was used for the Ninja war as an experiment. She was blood thirsty. Literally. She would have her brother bring people that Orochimaru didn't need and she sucked them dry. But her mother, Hebi, told me about the experiments her brother did. Orochimaru practically tortured her into becoming the ultimate weapon. It's sad. But Hebi was the one to give my the chance to suck up Orochimaru in my Genjutsu. She poisoned him while he was going through his body switching phase. Hebi helped me. And all I can do is name my team after her. Team Hebi is no more by the way. I guess Hebi was able to escape with her son and daughter, even in her condition it's surprising.
"The only way to find out the truth, is to find out my self," I say to my reflection. With my hair still wet and my towel around my waist I walk to my room. I dressed in a not-so-fancy-but-fancy outfit. It was Tenten's birthday after all. I might as well forget about Hebi and her kids for now. Oh...I just remembered I had to turn off my mp3.
When I got down stairs, shorts and t-shirt on, with a towel around my neck, Itachi walks out of the kitchen with his breakfast and head phones on. Just an apple and some coffee.
"Well, well, well. I thought you'd be up earlier then me, Sasuke." He sits at the table.
"Hmph. I asked you to wake me up, Aniki." I glared at him.
Itachi smiled and continued to munch on his fruit. I'm anxious to find out what he uncovered last night at the mansion. Hyuga didn't tell me much during the spar. I didn't expect him to, but as ninja we find meanings within the hidden meanings...or at least that's what Kakashi-sensei says.
"You needed sleep, little brother," he swallows.
"I know about your quire, but it can't be helped. Not now. Not yet." he took another bite.
"Aniki, you know something. What are you hiding?" I sit at the other end of the table.
He didn't respond. Itachi shook his head and continued chewing. It's annoying when he keeps shit from me! The whole deal with our clan, and me wanting to kill him could have been less painful and avoided, if told me instead of keeping things from me! Speak, damn you!
"Not yet. Later, Sasuke." he was finished with the apple. He stood.
"Oh, and dry your hair. We're gonna leave for the brunch once you get your gift."
I nodded. All of rookie 9 put together a brunch for Tenten. Then, later tonight, Tsunade planned a party for her. It's sweet, even the Sand siblings are suppose to arrive later on today. A little get together for all of us.
"Now, about last night," he threw out the core.
I looked at him.
"We'll discuss this later. But I will tell you that an old friend of mine will be joining us at the party...Oh, and dry your hair. You look like someone dunked you head in a bucket of water." He sat back down and sipped at his coffee.
Sighing, I rubbed the towel against my wet hair. Sakura has been on my case about cutting my hair for some time. I might grow it out to Itachi's length, but it would look weird. Hopefully it won't grow, my hair has in fact stayed short for some time. I walked upstairs. I have a feeling something's going to happen today...something...interesting. Itachi's old friend? He's never said anything about a friend before...
We met up with the rest of rookie 9. Sakura made the stupidest mistake ever! Why the fuck are you going to tell the birthday girl to not go to the brunch until anyone came to get her? Baka! All of 'em!
"Well then someone go get her!" Shikamaru exclaimed. Sure as shit, we knew that Sakura screwed up big time.
Sakura sweat dropped. She tried to cover it up by saying that Tenten had to get dressed or put on make-up. Okay, baka, one; Tenten doesn't give a shit about clothing and two; never in her life, EVER, has she worn make-up. All the guys knew that! We all sighed.
"Lee, let's get her." Hyuga started walking toward the hokage's mansion.
"H-hai!" Lee look a little confused about the situation but followed anyway.
That's just great. We should have planned this out better. One person to get her. That's all we needed. And yet Sakura, the one with the most common sense, has failed! I looked at Itachi. He was smirking. Probably at our immaturity...asshole.
"Geez...to think we had this perfect!" Naruto whined.
We all nodded at looked at Sakura. She busted into her "I made a mistake! I'm sorry!" and "We all make mistakes!" Uhm. No. Just you. Naruto was talking to that Sai kid again. He's paler then Hyuga, looks gay, is a pervert, and his only technique is drawing. Pitiful. Sakura told me that we look a like. Look a like my ass! I am way better looking then him! And I don't comment about whether or not a guy has a penis or not! Damn Sai...why is he still here if I've returned? Naruto just got pissed at Sai. Hinata was holding him back from killing the guy.
"Let me go! Let me take that fake-ass smile and shove it up his ass! Let me go, Hinata!" Naruto struggled against Hinata's grip.
"N-Naruto! P-please, be still!" the Hyuga heir begged.
I looked at Sakura. She was just looking at the situation. She would normally interfere, but she didn't. She wanted Naruto to beat up Sai. She's done it many times before...beating up Sai was like a stress killer, no matter how hard you hit it, it can only get as damage. Hmph. I walked up to Sai and looked him in the face. He looked back. That bastard is always starting trouble. I turned to Naruto.
"Hit him, Sasuke!" he exclaimed. Hinata had a firm hand on his shoulder.
I looked at Sai again.
"I know you won't do it, Uchia."
Is this guy for real? He doesn't know who I am then! I raised both my hands. Naruto had a smirk on his face. In one swift movement, I hit both of them on the head.
"Ow! What was that for, Teme?" Naruto whined as he rubbed the bump protruding from the top of his head.
"For being an idiot!" I said.
Naruto gave a low groan. I looked at Sai. He too was rubbing the top of his head. He glared at me. Glare all you want, you're not gonna bother me and the rest of us.
"Oh, Sasuke! Is that anyway to treat a new member of rookie 9?"
We all turned around. Tenten was standing straight with Hyuga and Lee. She wore a green short, halter top dress that was slightly puffy. It complimented her long, mucular, tan legs. Forget what I said about the make-up thing. Her green eyeliner made her beautiful brown eyes pop. Her lips were a rose pink to soften the look. Her hair was in one bun and decorated with a lily pin. Over all, dude, she looked fucking awesome. I mean-not that she didn't look awesome in the first place...I mean, I'm not one to drool over a girl.
Stop staring, you perv!
I glanced at Itachi. He was smirking at me. Damn. Keep your thoughts to yourself! Sheesh...
"YOSH! COME MY FRIENDS OF YOUTH! LET US CELEBRATE THIS YOUTHFUL DAY WITH THE POWER OF YOUTH!" Lee gave his thumbs-up nice guy pose.
We all sweat dropped. Let's see...1...2...3? Yep, that was three times I heard the word 'youth' in that statement... or dialogue. I looked at Sakura. She was looking at Tenten. Her face wasn't lit up, but she looked please. She had a flash of jealousy on her face. I felt Ino's eyes on me. She exchanged looks with Sakura. I read the silent message that Ino sent. Jealousy is a very strong emotion. That was technically my emotion toward Itachi. But Ino didn't give it off that strongly. Sakura did.
"I'm with you, Lee!" Naruto returned the pose with a grin.
I sighed.
"Let's just go," I started walking toward the cafe.
Tenten was right behind me. I looked at her. She flashed me a smile and looked back at everyone else. She gave a little gasp and blushed a tiny bit. Hyuga must have been looking at her too. He's always done that, when she smiled, when she spoke, when she was in her own little world. He always watched her. But I've watched her longer! I've known Tenten longer then him! HA! Oh...what the hell am I doing? I'm arguing mentally with Hyuga! And I'm not even saying this to his face! What the hell? NO! Damn...
You're in denial, Little brother.
Damn you, Itachi! Get the fuck out of my head! NOW!
Itachi popped up beside me. He leaned in near my ear.
"Would you rather me say it out loud...in front of every body? Hm?" he whispered.
I swatted my hand at him. Aniki shifted and dodged. He smirked. Ok, he can go to hell now! You hear Kami-sama! NOW! I looked at Tenten. She was smiling to herself. I watched her eyes go wide as she realized what she was doing. She's adorable, I mean- the look on her face...
"What?" Sakura exclaimed as we walked up to the cafe.
"What is the matter, Sakura-chan?" Lee asked.
I looked at her. Her green eyes were wide when she looked at the sign. Ino joined her in the awing.
"NANI?" Naruto chimed in as well.
Shikamaru glanced at the sign. His face went pale as well as everyone else's but, Hinata, Itachi, and Hyuga. Tenten had a confused look on her face. She turned to the group.
"What's wrong guys?" she asked.
"Osaka, is the most expensive cafe in Konoha...Tenten," Shino said. That was the first time he ever said her name. He would normally talk to her directly by looking at her or talk to the whole group...Shino has always been weird...
"It's not like you're the ones paying for this," Itachi stated. He had worked over time just to get us to the deck. It cost way more then anyone could imagine a cafe would charge. But Hinata was kind enough to chip in.
"You, Itachi-kun?" Tenten looked at him with a surprised look on her face.
Itachi smiled at her.
"Anything for a good friend of mine, Tenten-chan," he lead us inside. We walked to the front booth. The snooty man with his nose in the air spotted us and smiled as we walked in. He wasn't looking at Itachi, the bastard was looking at Tenten. The whole village knew, so they treated her like they treated the hokage.
"Welcome to Osaka, how may I assist you, Tenten-sama?" he bowed to her.
Tenten smiled.
"We have a reservation, under the name..." she looked at Itachi.
"Uchia. Uchia Itachi," he said.
The man nodded and walked over to a huge red book. He nodded his head and crossed out something. He walked back to us and gave a quick, "this way please" before leading us to the deck. The majority of people there were looking at us. Well at Tenten, at least. I offered her my arm. She looked at me for a moment then smiled. Her long muscular arm linked to mine. I heard Sakura and Ino gasp. Heh. Yeah, that's right. I did it. Fan girl 1 and 2 had a depressed look on their face when I flashed a smile at Tenten. She blushed cutely and returned it.
"He's only doing this 'cause it's her birthday, Sakura," I hear Ino whisper.
"But he didn't do that on my birthday last year!" Sakura whined.
I heard Ino huff something under her breath. Jealous already, ne? Hmph what ever...
Sasuke look to your right
I looked. Itachi was making eye contact with a brunette. She had the same eye and hair color as Tenten, but her hair was longer and some of it was covering her right eye. She wasn't homely. But then again I couldn't see her full face. Her arms were muscular. Very. Like Tsunade muscular. She had a tattoo under her eye or eyes. She was sitting with a blonde hair girl with short hair. She too was looking at Itachi. She had bright yellow eyes...well eye. Her left eye was a demon eye...only her iris was pink. she only had one tattoo under her demon eye. Itachi broke contact with the brunette and continued walking toward the deck. That was weird.
"Youthful Flower! Say Cheese!" Lee had brought a camera with him. He was flashing pictures of everyone. Even himself. Sigh, that's to be expected from the Beast Of Konoha...well at lest one of them...
"Hey, Sasuke! Take a picture with me and Neji!" Tenten took my hand. The three of us stood. There was a beautiful view behind us of the village. Tenten linked arms with both of us. She smiled at the camera. I didn't like the idea of Hyuga being in the picture but, all well.
"Come on, Neji-kun, smile," Lee lowered the camera.
I looked at Hyuga. He looked a little uncomfortable. Hmph. I'm guessing he only took serious pictures. Team Gai's gennin team photo probably looks like our team's me and Naruto glaring at each other, Sakura smiling, Kakashi patting our heads. Ah, the memories...
"Come on, Neji," Tenten smiled softly at him.
Hyuga sighed. He nodded at Lee, who grinned and held the camera to his face again. We smiled. Lee gave us the thumbs up. We did a group sigh. The waiter from before came to take our orders. We all ordered salads...and of course Naruto ordered the ramen. We sat at the table. It was a clear day, and the view of the village is great. We we're all happy. As we ate, I felt this strange aura coming from Itachi. I looked at him. His face was serious and he was thinking about something. When he thinks, it means something's up.
"Aniki?" I leaned toward him. He side glanced at me and shook his head. The look in his eyes concerned me. His thoughts are very... critical. Well to me anyway. We finished our meal. The waiter came back to us.
"Any dessert?" he asked.
Naruto's face lit up. He asked Tenten if they could get an ice cream Sunday. She looked at Itachi.
"Hm?" Itachi looked at Tenten.
"Well can we?" she asked.
Itachi shrugged. "It's your birthday, Tenten-chan,"
Sigh. fine, I'll out my two cents in.
"I'll pitch in, you get what ever."
They all looked at me. Tenten smiled. She ordered all of us. The waiter nodded and flashed another smile at her.
"Sasuke you didn't have to do that," Tenten said. I shrugged. It's not a big deal. Really It's not.
How sweet...
I glared at Itachi. He was smirking. Our ice cream arrived. Tenten got her usual chocolate Sunday with the works. Naruto got vanilla with bananas and whip cream...well it's not whip cream really, it's cool whip. But it still tastes good. I'm guessing Sakura and Ino are trying to watch their so called "figures". Sakura is eating her strawberry Sunday, but it looks like Ino is afraid to touch her lemon cream one. Hyuga, and Lee got green tea, it matched their team color. Everyone else got vanilla except for Hinata who got vanilla bean.
"So, Ten, you excited for tonight?" Kiba asked. Akumaru made his way to Tenten's side. He licked her. A flash went off. We all looked at Lee. He had an awkward smile on his face. He apologized. Yeah you better be sorry...
"Yeah, I am. It's suppose to be a dance party," she petted Akumaru's fluffy white head.
"So what are we going to do next?" Choji asked. He had gotten his voice back yesterday, Shikamaru told me.
Tenten shrugged. She might have to go back home to Tsunade. I looked at Itachi. He was looking back at the brunette from before. I looked at her. Oh...my...kami-sama! She is a goddess!. I'm dead ass! She's like a 20 year old version of Tenten! And Itachi knows her too! I looked at her up and down.
Do me a favor would you? Stop staring at me, Uchia-kun. A female voice said softly in my head.
Itachi's eyes grew wide. He glared at me.
Don't sweat it, Uchia-kun. But it's uncomfortable.
I blinked. Itachi was red with anger. He flinched and took a deep breath. The redness cooled to his regular tone.
"I have an idea!" Ino stood.
We looked at her. She grinned and put her hands on her hips.
"Let's go to Tenten's place-just us girls!" she added the girl part quickly.
The guys sighed. The looked at me and Itachi. I guess it's off to my place for a few hours.
"Hey...teme, if we do go to someone's house, do you mind if we-"
"No," I sighed and looked at Naruto. He grinned and gave a thumbs up to the guys. Sigh...Naruto...him and his crazy ideas. I looked at Itachi. He shrugged and his eyes flew to where the sexy brunette was before with the blonde. I look over as well. They were gone, but I still felt an aura lingering toward Aniki. I looked at his face. He looked a little sad. Like he wished he could've talked to her. But how did she get into my head? Itachi was the only one in the village (that I know of) that can use the communications technique. And she knew my name! What's up with that?
Mine your own business.
I looked at him. Over the chattering of my fellow peers, his message was clear.
"Is that alright with you, Sasuke?"
Eh? Oh.
"Hm? Sorry what?" I smiled at Tenten. She knew I wasn't paying attention. Sigh I should really start caring about what's gong on around me instead of in front of me.
Tenten shook her head.
"We were all going to Lake Izumi before the party so we can meet up with the Sand siblings," she said happily.
I nod
"I say we go skinny dipping there!" Ino announced.
Oh. Hell. No. The group gave her a glare, even Sakura.
"You can do it. We won't," Shikamaru snapped. he wasn't one for following anyone's ideas unless they are...what's the word...suitable for that situation. That's what I like about Shikamaru, he has common sense out of the rest of them.
"Skinny dipping, huh? Then we can see if Naruto has a-"
We all glared at Sai. He sweat dropped. That guy is gay. Seriously, he has, like, a... penis obsession! One time We all went to a hot spring and he commented on every guy's...thingies! I can't say the actual word with out gagging.
"Sasuke-kun," Lee was holding up his camera. Good, he's asking me first! Good, Beast of Konoha.
I nodded. Tenten started to laugh. I looked at her.
"And what seems to amuse you, Tenten?" I asked her. She smiled.
"I'm sorry, but, I never knew you as a picture kind of person, Sasuke!" She said.
Oh...uhm...I use to be. I guess that's one thing I couldn't get over about my child hood. I hear Aniki give a 'Heh'. He himself got over his picture taking dilemma, but it shouldn't seem weird to him, I mean, he is my Aniki.
"Well I took that picture with you. Didn't I?" I smiled softly at Tenten.
"Well, yeah!" She beamed. Aww, she beamed...ah man! I really gotta stop thinking about my best friend like this!
I look away. I spot the waiter floating toward us with the bill. He sets it in front of Itachi and floats back inside. Itachi is hesitant to open it. The table gets quiet as Itachi finally opens and reads the bill. His face doesn't show any emotion. He whips out his debt card and signals for the waiter again. The man pops up with a kool-aid smile as he takes the bill.
"Itachi? Are you alright?" Tenten placed a hand on his shoulder.
The bill must have been bad. His face was pale and he was rubbing his temples. Yikes. Straight from his account.
"Yes, Tenten-chan, I'm fine," He gave her a small smile.
The waiter came back with Itachi's card. He said see you again soon. Hmph, yeah, right. We gather our jackets and stuff and walk out. As we stand outside of Osaka, we all make last minute plans to see who's going to who's house to shower and change. We're going to Lake Izumi anyway so we might as well go there first.
"Let's just grab out swim suits and head to the river first." Naruto announced.
Thank you, Kami-sama for Naruto! We agree and head our separate ways. I walk in silence with Itachi. He hasn't said anything since he paid that bill. He must have been hurt money wise. I know he was saving up to buy a new guitar. But I guess he has to work over time, again.
"Yes, I was hurt money wise," he said.
Sigh, I hate when he's in my mind.
"How...much was it?" I was afraid to ask but I have to. Hell when he gets his new guitar, I'm taking his old one! My guitar needs to be put to rest! His old one is in really good condition, but I guess he's had it for many years. I would sometimes see him dusting it off and replacing the strings. Once I have it, I'm replacing every thing on it!
"It was...215,000 ryu," He said quietly.
Oh, shit. That was his guitar money. He just spent his hard earned money on Tenten (but Naruto went crazy on the ramen do it's mostly his fault). Yikes.
"It's alright, Aniki. I mean, you can still use the guitar you have now. Even though it's really old and dusty...it sounds like it's brand new," I try to cheer him up. He knew Tenten was trying to not make the bill very high, especially if he was paying for it all.
Itachi sighed, but nodded. He had his mp3 and ear phones in his pocket. In went the music. I didn't bring mine because I knew I wasn't going to use it. But Aniki brings it everywhere, just in case I guess. We walked the rest
of the way home in silence.
We gathered at Lake Izumi shortly after. The lake was named after the Izumi clan that now lives in the Waterfall Village. They say Their eldest daughter had 'magical powers' and had a gift for Genjutsu. She healed the ill and injured with this lake. It was also said that she saved the fallen. But It is just a myth. I mean, magic powers? Come on now, really? There's no such thing as magic!
"WOOH! CANNON BALL!" The Naruto's jumped into the lake. He used his clones to make a major splash. Damn...he ruined my white shirt...
"Wait for me, Naruto!" Sakura hopped in. She splashed the baka in his face and smiled.
Ino put a toe into the water and decided it was too cold. What does she expect? It's a lake not a hot spring! She goes over to Shikamaru. That girl never gives up. It's clear Shikamaru doesn't like her, and yet she keeps trying...sad. Really, just sad.
"Sasuke! Come swimming with me!" Tenten was standing in front of me in her green bikini. Wow. Now that's a nice body. She was muscular and her natural skin tone shined. Her figure was perfect. Well, in my opinion. I looked up at her. She was waiting for an answer...is she pouting? Sigh, she is...
"Alright, alright. Stop the pouting!" I stand. Leaving Itachi sitting under a tree, I run to the lake, following her.
Tenten stops short. She turns around and I crash into her. The air pressure began to decrease. My nose filled up with water. At least it was fresh water. I open my eyes. I see Tenten with her puffy cheeks. She picks up her head to the air. As do I. I cough and spit water to the side. I look down...Oh...well...isn't that interesting. I was on top of Tenten. She had her arms around my neck and was inhaling heavily. I glanced at Hyuga. Heh. He was looking right at us.
Oh, you're such a pervert, Sasuke...
Itachi's voice boomed in my head. I flinch and my vision blurs. That happens when he hasn't used the technique for about an hour. But it still has an affect on me. Even after all these years. I look back at Itachi. He wasn't paying attention to the group. Hmph, some watcher he is...
"Oi! Teme! Get off my nii-chan, will you?" Naruto shoves me off of Tenten...Did he just call her 'nii-chan'?
I land on my back and sigh. Ino pops up next to me and drags me to Sakura. I look at her. She was showing off her flat chest to Sai and batting her eye lashes. She pretended that her bikini top was untied by the waves but it was obvious she had undone it herself.
"Would you...(bats eye lashes) help me, Sai?" I hear her say. Ino brings me aside.
"Sasuke, you seem really distracted," she says.
I shrug.
"Why does it bother you so much, Ino?" Look I'm trying to be nice. Ino isn't the one I hate. It's Sakura. And Ino knows that.
"Okay, I know you don't like Sakura. And you find Hinata to be too timid and obsessed with Naruto, but what's going on between you and Ten-"
"'Nothing." I interrupt her.
Ino gives me her 'yeah right' look.
"I'm serious, Ino. Nothing is going on! We're just really close friends. You know that-"
"What I do know is that you have a plan." She smiles as me.
Is it that obvious? If so then who else has caught on...
"Who else knows?" I say quietly.
"It's just me. And Shikamaru. But I suggest-,"
I blink.
"That you do a better job of getting Neji jealous." she crosses her arms over her chest.
Uh...and your point is...?
"What I'm saying is, to make someone jealous you have to go over the top."
Right. You would know wouldn't you?
"Okay so tell me your plan. I tell you if it's good or not." she sits .
I look carefully at her. Ino hated Sakura deeply even though they're best friends.
"Why? Would it matter so much to you if I told you what I was up to? What will you get out of this?" I cross my arms over my chest.
Ino sighed. She leaned in closer.
"For once. Just for once, I'd like to show Ms. Princess that she can't always get what she wants!" Ino huffed.
Oh...I see. She wants to show Sakura a lesson. Heh. About time. I look her in the face. She was determined to show Sakura up. It was part of their bitter-sweet friendship. But the one who always secretly won, was Ino. And I must and proud to say; she is wayyyyy smarter (Street smarts we're talking about) then Sakura. Ino has the determination burning in her eyes.
"Fine. I'm in," I say finally.
Ino gives a small 'yes!' and looks at the group. I looked as well. Sakura was still flirting with the gay king, Sai. Naruto, Shikamaru, Choji, Kiba and Lee, were dunking each other. Itachi had his feet in the water, looking at the sky. And Tenten was sitting at the bank talking with Hyuga. and Shino was just sitting under a tree.
Ino looked back at me.
"So tell me," she whispered.
I nod. I told her everything I was going to do. I called it my 'Jealousy plan'. Ino listened carefully as I explained every detail. Her eyes glanced at the lake every now and then. She nodded slightly, and smirked sometimes. Ino is a good listener. When I concluded my briefing, she looked at me and grinned.
"Don't you have an evil little mind, hm? Sasuke-kun?" she said.
I smirked. Hell yeah.
"You like? I have a feeling it's gonna work." I say.
Ino nodded.
"Yep. I agree, but how is it that you're so sure Neji is going to snap in about a month? I mean that's kind of long-"
"Ino. I know Hyuga, it'll take that long to register through his mind what's going on," I hold my hand to her mouth.
She nods. But sighs.
"To think Neji, the prodigy of the Hyuga clan, would be so senseless to his own feelings. Especially if they're that obvious..." she frowned.
It's true. There's no denying it at all. He's a dumb-shit when it comes to this kind of stuff.
"Yep. So, you'll think she'll say-?"
"Of course! Without a doubt!" Ino exclaimed.
And with that she smiled and ran back to our friends, that determined look still in her eyes.
Very clever. Let's see how long it'll last.
I glance at Itachi. He was smirking.
You're on, Aniki. I can so get Hyuga jealous with in a month.
I trekked back to the group. Ino was chatting with Tenten. By the look on her face, Tenten was puzzled by their conversation. She makes that cute ( O.o ) face... Ugh! Okay, just stick to the plan, Uchia! Do NOT fall for your best friend! You are simply pushing her in the right direction. Ino glanced at me and nodded. I returned the gesture by glancing at Sakura. The blonde said very loudly that she's happy for Tenten about the adoption and swims off toward my pink haired fan girl. I use my chakra to walk on the water toward Tenten. She smiled as I stood in front of her.
"What's up, Sasuke?" she looked up at me with those big brown, sparking eyes.
I released my chakra and made a big splash as I fell into the cool lake. Tenten laughed and splashed me as I surfaced. She whipped the water out of her eyes and smiled again. I paddled closer and put an arm around her shoulders. I looked into her eyes.
"You excited?" I asked.
She nodded.
"Ino was telling me people were bringing dates," she sighed.
I glanced over at the group. Sakura and Hyuga were looking right at us. Hyuga was red with anger. I looked for Ino. She was out of the water talking to another blonde kuniochi. The Sand Siblings have arrived. Kazekage Gaara was in a white tee with red swim trunks. His brother Kankuro was topless, make-up off and smirking. Temari wore a teal tankini and was listening with a smirk on her face to Ino. The girls laughed and the group was lead to the river bank. Ino glanced at me and nodded. I looked back at Tenten. She looked puzzled.
"In a way it's not that bad to bring a date," I say.
She looked at the group and sighed.
"Yeah, I guess..." she looked at me.
"I imagine you're going with Sakura-"
"Hell. No." I hiss.
Tenten giggles.
"I see, you don't like her at all..." she trailed off. She was looking at Hyuga. Her eyes grew wide and teary.
The damn Hyuga hadn't asked her to her own party. He's her best friend! But I've known her longer so:
Me: I see. So he hasn't asked you huh?
Tenten: (Shakes head) No...
Me: Well I can't have you going alone well can I?
Tenten: (That cute confused look) Eh?
Me: (holds out hand) How 'bout you go with me? To the party?
Tenten: O.O (- suck a cute face!)
Me: Well? How 'bout it? You and me, ne? (Smile)
Tenten: Y-yeah! Arigato, Sasuke!
She hugged me. I gave back the hug and glanced at Ino over her shoulder. She held her hands up and mouthed 'Well?'. I gave her, 'are-you-serious?' face and smirked. Ino gave me a thumbs up. I returned it and Tenten pulled away from me.
"I'll pick up at about...seven-ish?" I say. I wanted to talk to her a bit before the party.
She nodded and smiled. Temari jumped in and swam her way to us. She grinned.
"Tennie! Congratulations, dear!" She hugged her.
Tenten gave a faint 'thank you' as Temari squeezed her best friend. Temari let go of her and she faced me.
"Hello, Uchia." she smiled.
"Hello, Temari. And I've told you before to call me Sasuke." I say softly.
Both Tenten and Temari looked at me in a weird way. Yeah, this is me trying to be nice.
"Okay, Sasuke." Temari chuckled.
Great. I shouldn't have said anything.
"So anyway, Tenten, Do you mind if my little bro and I hang at your place for the few days we're here?" she asked.
Tenten shook her head.
"No not at all," she said.
Temari leaned in, possibly forgetting I'm right here. I hate when chicks do that! They'll tell secrets with anyone listening and once you confront them, they whine about being nosey.
"Sooooo, who are you going to the party with? Me and Shikamaru are going together! And Itachi's going with an old friend," Temari smirked and nudged Tenten.
Tenten sweat dropped.
"I'm going with Sasuke. And I'm happy for you and Shika-"
"REALLY?" The Sand ninja exclaimed.
Geez. Relax! Why does everyone (not including Hyuga...) over-react to everything! It's really annoying...Why is Temari looking at me like that? Her teal eyes had sparkles and she was grinning. She blinked and turned back to Tenten. I saw Tamari's face become serious. I looked at Tenten. She had a hurt look on her face. It had to be because Hyuga (that bastard) didn't ask her to the party. But Temari caught on quick, however. She normally does. That's a bad thing.
"So...he didn't ask, huh?" she softened her voice.
Tenten shook her head. After a moment of silence from the three of us, she looked at me. The look she gave me was unrecognizable.
"Meh, who needs him? Don't worry, Tenten, we'll have a great time tonight!" I smile softly to her.
Tenten returned the smile. She looked at Temari for approval. She's like her older sister. Even though they look nothing alike.
"Damn straight you will!" Temari winked at us before swimming off.
The group was swimming to land and gathering their stuff. I waited until Tenten was walking with Temari before meeting up with Naruto and Itachi. They waited for me as I picked up my bag. We walked together toward my house. I glanced behind us. Shikamaru was following us a few meters behind. I turned to Naruto.
"Oh! Yeah, sorry I forgot to tell you, Teme. Shikamaru's coming with us. He doesn't want to go home to change. You know...his mom..." Naruto grinned awkwardly.
I nodded. The most scariest people you will ever meet; Shikamaru's and Kiba's mothers. They are just...you know! Oi, I don't blame him for not wanting to go home. Shikamaru's mom nags at him for everything. Not just him, his father too. Kiba's mother is just scary. She's nice, but scary. That's why Kiba only invites us when his mother is on a mission and his older sister is home watching him.
Shikamaru yawned. He kept his distance from the three of us. I wish Naruto was like that. But in some ways I don't...I am not gay! No matter how much you say yes! It was just one date! I was Bi-curious!
We made it to my house and entered. Naruto called dibs on the shower first, but Itachi stopped him. We looked at him.
"I have important Intel." he looked at me.
Naruto had on his serious face. Shikamaru raised an eye brow.
"About...?" Nara asked.
Itachi was silent for a moment. Was he really gonna do this now? Well it's about freaking time!
"I was appointed Tenten-chan's second watcher. Last night I was running an errand for Tsunade-sama, but I left my clone behind. My clone recorded everything said between the two woman, and I believe it is critical to tell. I do not know what this will lead to but that's what you're here for." he said quietly.
We all nodded slightly. He gestured for us to sit on the couch. We did. What he's going to show us, will change our perspective on things. Aniki captures every detail. But in order to persuade us into believing it's true, he uses his Sharingan.
"What I'm about to show you three," he closed his eyes. I can sense his chakra charging.
"May change the way you look at our dear Tenten-chan..."
We all gulped. Our eyes watched at Itachi made the tiger seal.
"Myoukagu Sharingan!"
Our house turned black. We all exchanged looks with each other. Neither of them is use to this Sharingan. Only I am. We look at Itachi again. His eyes red and his face held a frown. He formed a few seals and gave a "Huh". The black arena turned into the balcony of Tsunade's room. Naruto and Shikamaru glanced around.
"As you can see, I had just left. Here comes my clone." Itachi pointed toward the clone of his ANBU self. He squatted near the balcony sliding glass doors and closed his eyes.
Aniki copied his clone and waved for us to do the same. We listened.
Tsunade: "You're probably wondering why this has happen so suddenly...Tenten, I have seen many young children...orphans in my life. Each became wonderful Shinobi, but due to the development of depression. They have gone."
Exactly what is she implying? Tenten's not depressed. At least not recently...
Tsunade: "But I had this idea to adopt one. I was thinking for months, then when I was looking at your team's mission roster. It hit me. You would become my child."
Tenten looked at her. Her face puzzled.
Tenten; "But...why me? Why not Naruto?" (looks at the moon)
I hear Tsunade sigh.
Tsunade; "Naruto...has a family already Tenten. People his own age that he can relate to. Hell, he and Sasuke are practically brothers,"
Tenten has friends! That's complete bull shit! She has a family of friends that are younger...then...her...
Tenten; "I see...but I have-"
Wait...why did she pause? Why didn't she finish? I leaned in more
Tsunade; "Tenten. I understand you have friends. But I'm more worried about you're feelings as the only one of your name. You don't have a surname. And I'm sure you wouldn't be happy being married off to someone." (She smiles softly.)
Tenten! Why aren't you saying anything! Speak dammit!
Tsunade;"I know that you're a very strong girl. You've been fighting all your life to stay out of loneliness."
(she stood and walked over to Tenten)
"Naruto told me how you would only take care of your friends. You care much for them and don't care for yourself. I wish to be the person to care for you when you're caring for others. He told me also when you were given pity instead of praise when you were younger."
That little bastard did what? Shikamaru and I glared at Naruto. He smiled awkwardly knowing that I was gonna kill him later.
Tsunade; "You've been a very happy girl all your life. It's shocking how you've been able to deal with being alone,"
Tenten; "I was...too young...to really understand what pity meant. I would always be with Sasuke, Naruto and the Third hokage. They were there for me when nobody else was. They gave me hope of not being alone...but when Sarutobi-sama died and Sasuke left, Naruto wasn't always there. He would tell me everything will be back to normal once Sasuke came back. We grew distant."
She looks like she's about to cry. Damn...So it's my fault.
Tsunade; (sits on the window-sill. She looked at the moon.)
Tsunade herself had lost her parents, her lover, and her only brother. But she was able to get over it all. She was able to live without wearing a false mask of joy. Tenten never really was the same after I left. She had changed even more when I came back...
Tenten; "I understand now." (she sighed.)
Tsunade; "Tenten, I want you to get the praise you deserve. You are a very strong willed girl and I don't want you to fall and break as I did. It maybe a little late, but I want to make you stronger here," (she laid a hand on her chest.)
Tenten; ( looked at her feet and nodded)
Tsunade; "And here," (she pointed to her arm and chuckled.)
"Your parents were strong people. I knew them well. It was unfortunate they died. They could have seen how much you have grown." (She stood. And walked to the door. She said something and opened it. Aniki stood there looking at her.)
Aniki; "Message sent, Tsunade-sama."
Tsunade nodded and dismissed him. She turned back to Tenten.
Tsunade; "Come Tenten, It's getting late." (she walked out of her room with Tenten at her heel.)
We looked at Itachi. He made more seals and his Sharingan deactivated. The setting slowly changed back to our living room. We panted. So, that was it. Tenten was showing fake joy about the adoption. It seemed as though she wanted to continue being alone.
"That's it," Itachi stood in place firmly, watch us catch our breath.
"That. was..." Naruto coughed and sat up. We were laying on the floor during the Genjutsu.
"Oh, Kami-sama..." Shikamaru had a hand on his head.
I looked at Itachi. He looked at me back.
You better be careful, little brother. That mask of hers better come off soon. I predict major issues is it doesn't.
I blinked once. My vision blurry. I took a deep breath and nodded. I blinked twice. My vision returned. I know exactly what I'm going to do.