Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto.

A/N: I'm shitty for not updating (it's been past seven damn months) and I kind of forgot that I ended the last chapter with such angst (I live for angst). Posting this new chapter feels nostalgic. My work will never be error-free so I apologize for that. Thank you to those who haven't forgotten this story and are still waiting for me to update. You stir the guilt in my heart. As always, your opinions are appreciated.

CHAPTER 3

Days passed with Naruto drowning himself with work. There was nothing better to do to tear his attention off from constantly thinking of Sasuke than immerse himself on his desk job. After the incident at the restaurant, Naruto was left to ponder that maybe he shouldn't have lashed out and appeared to be so bitter about Sasuke getting married. They were adults and he should have dealt with the situation in a better way but somehow he didn't feel as regretful. The raven needed to know how that fact have caused him so much pain because Naruto knew they will probably never going to have any chance to talk about it. He himself would never open up that matter and for one, it seems impossible for him and Sasuke to talk like some old friends again, when he's doing his best not to see himself in the company of the said man again.

His eyes landed on the framed certificate he received on the same event where he saw Sasuke for the first time in years. It was his goal when he accepted the responsibility to run the company that his parents left him. At the same time, it was the proof that he succeeded and it was supposed to be the turning point of his life. And indeed it was because it paved the way for him to meet Sasuke again. He just didn't foresee that they would end up not being together after working hard all those years, after spending countless nights of holding back to search and run into Sasuke's arms. Was all his effort in vain? Surely not if he's talking business-wise but it was a straight blow into his already weakened heart. He was yearning for him, his heart aching for his love and his body trembling for his warmth and yet here he was mourning over the fact that Sasuke is married. He knew of that years ago and yet he hasn't moved on.

The sound of the phone broke him out of his self-pitying. He exhaled and pressed the button and his secretary's voice filled his office.

"Mr. President, there's someone who wants to meet you."

Naruto noticed the slight waver in the woman's voice. It might be due to his strict order not to disturb him for another hour as he was reading through an important document. It was almost five anyway. Who the hell would come to his office at this time just to meet him? He pinched the bridge of his nose. What was the reception doing down in the ground floor? They knew his policies for non-appointment visits unless from the list of names he's willing to meet unannounced.

"I strictly ordered you to not disturb me anytime soon. I don't believe I have an appointment this afternoon, let alone this late. Tell whoever that person to set an appointment first."

He was slightly annoyed with the disturbance and was only waiting for the assistant to reply when a different yet very familiar voice floated. A smooth, authoritative voice startled him.

"Mr. Namikaze, I would like to take a bit of your time. I hope that's fine. I came all the way here to meet you. It'll be a shame to turn down my good intentions."

It took him a few moments to process what he have just heard and when he was about to open his mouth to say something that his glass doors opened revealing a pale and handsome man. The person stood regally and has a benign smile to his lips.

"It's been a while, Naruto."

...

He was tapping his pen on the document laid before him but nothing was practically making any sense to him. He was spending a good few minutes thinking about his situation with the blond. What happened that night was something he didn't expect and he once again, he let the opportunity to slip past him. He gripped the object on his hand tightly a few times before he calmed down for a bit.

Naruto is mad at him. Not just mad, but furious and disappointed. It was the latter that made a pinch in his heart. He can accept the fury but the disappointment made him cringe as if the word literally scares the hell out of him. He wanted Naruto to listen to his side but the stubborn blond isn't giving him any chance. Of course he knew that he was hurting. Fuck. He is hurting too! That's why he was trying so hard to have a private moment with his former lover to explain himself and his decisions but it's like the gods are punishing him. The blond refuses to spend a second longer than a minute at his expense and there was this red head that acts as if he owns Naruto. Just thinking of the potential rival makes his blood boil. He doesn't want to admit but he is scared. Sasuke Uchiha is fucking threatened of one Gaara Sabaku and who can blame him? While Naruto hates him, the damn no-eyebrows might be making progress and advances to his blond. Sasuke feels helpless and at the same time murderous. If it wasn't for Itachi halting and calming him, he might have already made hasty decisions that will definitely end up disastrous for him. He recalled the brief conversation he had with his brother.

"...it won't do you any good, otuoto. Please try and understand that while both of you suffered, it was Naruto who received the shorter end. You have to think of how the news of you getting married affected him be it for the sake of the companies."

"It wasn't for business Itachi and you know that!" Sasuke snapped at his sibling. "It was more for her. It was her wish and I'm her friend. I'd do it again if I have to."

There was silence at the other end before the older raven spoke again. This time his voice was levelled. "While I admire your motive, it was still unfair for Naruto. You chose a woman over him. You owe him an explanation. You owe him the truth."

The younger felt the familiar stab of guilt. "I know that. When I saw him that night, I knew it was the time to finally set things in motion. He told me so himself. After he achieved that dream, we were supposed to continue what we had before. But I fucked up and he clearly shut himself off. I blame myself for that. I caused him so much pain that's why I have to fix things myself but I can't fucking do that when he won't even listen to me."

Sasuke heard a small chuckle. "Whining like a spoiled brat, little brother. Don't worry; I might persuade our adorable blond to meet you. You better not waste this opportunity, for I'm sure it'll be the last one."

"Thank you aniki." The younger raven softly uttered and Itachi knew how much this meant for his brother. He hopes that this time, the two of them can work it out.

His cell phone buzzed and his attention immediately latched on the object. Karin's name was flashing in the screen. He bit back a frustrated growl. This woman speaks of trouble and problem, not to mention the headache it causes him. While he made it clear to her that he has no intention or the slightest desire of dating her, the persistent woman was still pushing it. Karin is a close relative of his wife and therefore someone that Sasuke used to see through the couple of years that he was with Misaka. With his wife gone, Karin was more than adamant to pursue him.

He chose to ignore the device. He cannot spare anytime for such trivial matter when he should be trying to think of plans to woo Naruto.

...

"I-Itachi?!"

Naruto said in surprise. He stood from his leather chair to meet the man, noticing he was still holding the phone. His fondness for the older guy takes over and he found himself hugging the lean warm body of Itachi Uchiha. Naruto never did harbour any ill feelings towards the man. It has been years since he was this near him. He felt strong arms returning his embrace before their bodies break the contact. Naruto was widely grinning as he look up to the Uchiha.

"Hey! How have you been? How come you're here? You should have called me first! It's not like I don't appreciate you barging in my office like that but I would have love to hear from you before you come storming here! That nearly gave me a heart attack you know?! I didn't take you as someone who—"

"Easy there, Naruto. Why don't we take a seat first?"

The tan guy blushed and massaged the back of his neck. "M'yeah. Sorry. I just got really surprised to see you here. Not expecting it, you know?"

Naruto didn't go back to the chair beside his desk but sat on the set that was situated on the left side of his office. He motioned for Itachi to take the cushion across him.

"You want something to drink 'Tachi? Tea, coffee, anything?"

The raven shook his head. He was still sporting an amused smile on his lips. Itachi crossed his legs and leaned back slightly. "Thank you but I have to refuse. If you're not busy, perhaps we can have an early dinner to catch up for the old times? What do you say, Naruto?"

The tan guy squirmed a little in the comfortable chair. He will be lying if he says that he wasn't expecting to see Itachi any time sooner. He does not fear Itachi but he fears what the man will talk about. Naruto already has an idea what's behind this invitation yet if he rejects it that would seem a childish and cowardly move from him. Sooner or later he has to deal with everything that has something to do with Sasuke. He can't keep running anymore right?

Composing his inner self, he returned the intense gaze of the dark eyes in front of him. "Alright. Do you have any place in mind? I do know some superb restaurants around the area."

"If it isn't much of a bother, I would like to have this dinner privately."

Naruto scrunched his brows before the meaning dawned in him. Itachi is inviting him to his place. "Where do you plan on taking me?"

"I have a flat which is half an hour drive from here. We can take my car and I'll have you escorted back to your place after we're done." Itachi said with a hint of hope.

The tan guy took a few moment of silent before brightly saying, "Sounds good! You'll do the cooking? Never knew you can cook, 'Tachi." There was a slight sceptical expression on Naruto's face.

Relief flooded the older Uchiha's face and he sent a soft smile towards Naruto. "You seem to forget that I do sometimes prepare your meal when you were at my brother's place before. It might not be to your standards but I'll try my best."

There was a brief flash of recognition and fondness on Naruto's face that vanished as soon as it was there at the mention of a past memory that involves Sasuke.

"Heh. I seem to have forgotten. You need to remind me again of how your cooking tastes."

Itachi smirked. "That I will do, Naruto. I'm sure you have some more things to attend to. You can work while I wait here."

Tan hands immediately dismissed the idea. "No, it's alright. I'm almost done anyway. Let's head to your place and catch up the old times, 'Tachi as you humour me with your food." Naruto didn't wait for a reply as he started to hastily fix the papers scattered on his desk and grabbing his coat. He grinned cheerfully at the older guy who was regarding him in a mix of amusement and slight exasperation but nonetheless stood from his comfort and walked out of the polished office with Naruto on his side. Both gave a nod to the flustered secretary as they left the floor. They exchanged stories mostly of the blond's adventures and Itachi knew it was intentional. It wasn't yet the moment to delve into the much serious matters. That can wait until they reach his place.

...

It took exactly twenty nine minutes until the pair slid off of the older man's car. They were in front of a towering building which appears to be made by glass. The blond slightly grimace with the over glamour of the place but said nothing. He saw Itachi motioning him to walk with him towards the revolving door as the valet took care of the car. They were both silent as they ride the elevator and stopped at what Naruto guessed was the penthouse. The older man led him into the living room while he hangs their coat.

"Wow. Remind me again how you're on the top of the food chain. This is one hell of a place, Itachi! Wish mine's this posh. But I'm still living with the old man. Well, not that I'm complaining about my place."

Itachi's living room clearly depicts of minimalism. There wasn't much furniture to be seen other than that of a flat screen taking almost half of the height of the place in the wall and a luxurious set of leather couch, with a matching dark wood table at the center. There's a few art works plastered on the visible wall and some displays to add character. There carpet runs through the entire place and one side shows of the sparkling city. Naruto moved to the window and can't help himself curse at the magnificent view.

"Damn! You have the best view here! What would I not give to live here?!" Naruto moaned while still admiring the cityscape. He heard Itachi chuckled from behind.

"You are free to come over here should you wish Naruto. Can I offer you some tea or coffee perhaps while you're quite drooling all over my window?"

The blond immediately stepped away from the glass and wiped his mouth. It was then that the booming laugh of Itachi filled the room.

Naruto flushed and growled at the still laughing man. "Damn you Itachi! I wasn't drooling at all!"

"Touché. I'll be in the kitchen. I have few movies in the rack; feel free to watch whatever you want. Please make yourself at home, Naruto."

The blond snorted but grinned at the retreating figure. He made another sweeping glance at the magnificent surrounding outside before he started busying himself on the collections of titles that Itachi has. He noticed the man placed a cup of steaming tea on the table and left for the kitchen again. With Naruto all alone, his thoughts delved deeper than the wide range of choices of movie in front of him, past the refreshing aroma of tea and even beyond the relaxing mood around him. His consciousness was once again consumed of Sasuke and how that name will be the main point of this whole episode. Without giving much pondering on what to watch, he settled on the first sci-fi movie his eyes landed at. He was just starting the movie when the whiff of food wafted through the living room, followed by Itachi's voice.

"Naruto, food's almost done. Can you please set the table?"

The blond jumped to his feet and paused the movie before making his way to the kitchen. It wasn't big by standard but it was very elegant. Everything looks well-maintained which either means someone cleans it regularly or someone cooks often. Itachi told him of the places where the plates and utensils are. Naruto arranged the table quickly and sat on one of the stool. He watched Itachi manoeuvre with ease as he plates the food.

"Hey, do you always cook for yourself?"

Itachi turned around. He was wearing a very flattering apron. "Most of the time if I can manage it. I usually dine outside with some friends and colleagues or clients. I hate eating alone. Sasuke do drop by when his schedule permits it, which is very rare these days. My younger brother drowns himself on his job."

The atmosphere seems to freeze for a moment at the mention of Sasuke's name until Naruto sighed. The blue eyes have a faraway look on them.

"That guy has always been stiff and serious. I can't say I'm surprised but I thought being married and all that will slow him down somehow."

Itachi blinked at the way Naruto say something related to Sasuke without pain and hatred lacing his voice. He has always assumed the blond will at least harbour some negative feelings towards his brother. Itachi set the food on the table as he removed the apron. He took the chair facing the younger man. This might be the opportunity he's been waiting for.

"Naruto, how about talking with Sasuke? And by that, I mean really spending time to sit and talk of everything. Just the two of you listening to each other."

The blond remained silent and stare at him which Itachi took as a good sign. He continued. "I am not forcing this unto you but in my opinion it's highly the time to make amends and fix whatever has been broken. I'm not saying you have to forgive Sasuke but at least listen to his side and perhaps the two of you can stop tip toeing around each other. My brother has been carrying this weight on him for years and as much as I know he's a not a weak man, he's neither invincible too. I hope I'm not coming too strongly but I care about him, about you Naruto. The both of you have suffered so much."

Blue eyes that were swirling in emotions shot up, searching into Itachi's deep dark orbs, uncertain yet hopeful. The gulp that the blond took seemingly filled the whole space. There was a few moment of silence until a slightly hoarse voice of Naruto permeated them, "Yes. I agree that it's high time I face your brother head-on. This I owe to myself as well."

Itachi has never felt more relieved. He smiled gratefully at the man sitting directly at him who despite still looking a bit indecisive was also gleaming and shining with determination and optimism. The Uchiha cocked his head.

"...and now we enjoy the food."

Naruto can only nod his head, a small grin painting his lips.

...

As Sasuke deemed that it was another futile day for him to have a chance with Naruto, he has never been any more mistaken. Before he hit the lights off on his bedroom, he received what he can consider a life-changing message from his brother that finally, fucking finally, Naruto has agreed to meet him up and talk. He quickly typed a message to Itachi, saying his thanks. He'll have to talk to that cunning yet thoughtful brother of his.

Sasuke didn't know if his chest will burst from anticipation or anxiety. Yet either way, he can't keep the small pleased smile that adorned his lips. He will have a great sleep tonight, that he can assure.

To be continued...

A/N: Is it even possible for flames to be pleasant? I'm afraid to admit that somehow I lost the plot for this story. Like what will happen 'if' they ever made up? What comes next? Damn. I'm still finding my way back. Next update though, I can promise will not take this long. Thank you for reading.